When thinking of a country that simply gives and gives and keeps giving when it comes to incredible landscapes, Iceland comes to mind. The photographer’s dream come true, the hiker’s love affair and the leasure stroller taking it in slowly, this Nordic Gem offers it all.
It is hard to pick just 10 stunning beauties however, after much deliberation we managed though, with some back and forth discussion to shorten the list to a must experience sights.
1. Piggybacking two continents at Þingvellir National Park would be your starting point.
Þingvellir National Park
This is where the oldest parliament in the world, Althingi, was established in 930. Many Game of Thrones scenes were shot here so bring out your camera and shoot around while putting a foot each on the Euroasian and the North American continental plates. While there, the national park offers many more nature pearls to adore. To mention a few, walk through the Almannagjá canyon or visit Öxará waterfall. Perhaps you are in the mood to be more adventurous then trying snorkelling at the Silfra fissures is a great experience.
2. Getting Steamy at the Kraumar Baths
Kraumar baths in Borgarfjörður
Borgarfjörður keeps many hidden gems and secret spots. How about a geothermal bliss and a spa next to the historical place of Snorrasetur museum! The history museum at Reykhold has been named Snorrasetur, after the renowned Snorri Sturluson. Snorri Sturluson, the renowned scholar, documented Iceland’s history and thanks to him Norway has some insight into their past too as many of the happenings in the past involved Norway and or the Norwegian vikings who settled on the island. Once at Kraumar, allow yourself to float into a living dream before heading back to the capital.
3. Showing Gratitude to the Power of Nature
Skógarfoss in summer
When you start travelling around Iceland you will soon discover there is no shortage of waterfalls or foss as it is in Icelandic. Stopping at Skógarfoss to marvel at its power and beauty is a must and a great spot to bring the camera out.
4. Run Behind Seljalandsfoss
One can not leave out Seljalandsfoss if you visit Skógafoss or vice versa, they are like twin falls destined to be photographed and marvelled at in the same trip. Take a step back to be spellbound by the sound of power and admire the 60 m fall down into a cool pool below or make a quick visit behind the waterfall, a waterproof jacket is a must. To add to its effect on people, many proposals have taken place behind and infront of this majestic drop of water. So if you are wearing your ´proposal shoes´, a saying in Iceland, you got your moment!
5. Hiking over otherworldly black lava sands at Sólheimasandur
Reynisfjara black sand beach
It is here touching, feeling and smelling nature, where the rawness of it all becomes tangible. You definitely have arrived at a dream come true destination. And speaking of a perfect spot for proposal! Reynisfjara keeps many secrets and knows of many men, or women, dropping down on their knees to pop the all-important question. This place has captivating energy in abundance and holds many people spellbound staring at the rocks or out onto the ocean for a long period of time. Try it to believe it is our advice.
6. Adventure to Iceland’s Frozen Wonders
From Katla Ice Cave
Waking up early with enthusiasm and excitement has never been as easy. Getting geared up for a visit to the Katla Ice Cave is a must and not as taxing as it may sound. Remembering to take a photo of yourself in a cool outfit with crampons and a helmet to share the memories with friends and family back home is almost essential. But photo session apart, the idea of venturing into an ice cave sends chills down peoples back. This is not an everyday venture or something many get to try. It is important to book a guided tour with an experienced guide when venturing inside an ice cave or on top of a glacier. Safety before fun.
7. Capturing the best Northern Lights Photo
Northern Lights mirroring at Hvitserkur North Iceland
You do not come to Iceland during the Aurora season to miss out on this marvel. The Northern Lights phenomenon is like a dash of fairy tail to your dream. The best advice is to venture outside the city of Reykjavik, to avoid light pollution, to increase the sights of the celestial lights. There are many scheduled and or private tours to choose from when looking to book your chase for the Aurora Borealis, which of many offer you a retry should you miss them on your first hunt.
8. Adoring the symmetry of Hallgrimskirkja church
Hallgrimskirkja church Reykjavik
While in Iceland, a city tour is a must. The iconic building of Hallgrimskirkja church is well situated in the city up on a hill providing a magical view spot. Its symmetrical walls, said to be inspired by the basalt walls of the Studlagil Canyon in the East of Iceland, is a work of beauty. A walk up to the tower, if you are up for it, will bring you to another experience of the city of Reykjavik. While adoring the puzzle laid out in front of you with the seagull songs in your ears or if you’re lucky the roaring sounds of the church orgel, it is now you realise living the dream comes true.
9. Tasting a Nation
Brút Restaurant
Your love affair visit to the magical island in the North can not be completed without a tasting tour. Showing up early with an empty belly at the architectural beauty of glass and design is an essential before departing on this fabulous food tour. The Food walking tour has raving reviews and the icelandic delicacies giving a tale to tell to your loved ones back home.
10. Letting it Soak in
Bathing in Sky Lagoon
Sky Lagoon is a warm wonder just within the city’s borders and a wonderful way to let the experience sink in while gazing out at the bay of Kópavogur. Memorising, like a visual diary, your days on the island of big contrasts, the land of fire and ice or simply planning your next visit picking a different season!