Iceland is a land of contrasts, where glaciers and hot springs coexist, and the midnight sun and northern lights can be seen in the same trip. My recent trip to Iceland was full of surprises, from the friendly locals to the stunning landscapes. In this travelogue, I will take you through my journey in the land of fire and ice.
My trip started in Reykjavik, the capital city of Iceland. The colorful houses and vibrant street art make the city an Instagrammer’s paradise. The Hallgrimskirkja Church, with its striking architecture, is a must-visit. The view from the top of the church offers a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding mountains.
One of the highlights of my trip was the Golden Circle tour. The tour covers three major attractions in Iceland: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss waterfall. Thingvellir National Park is the site of the world’s first parliament, where Icelanders gathered to make decisions as early as 930 AD. The park is also home to a rift valley caused by the separation of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. Geysir Geothermal Area is home to the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts every few minutes, shooting water up to 30 meters in the air. The Gullfoss waterfall is a stunning sight, where the Hvítá River plunges down two tiers, creating a magnificent cascade of water.
Another highlight of my trip was the South Coast tour. The tour takes you along the scenic south coast of Iceland, past charming villages, black sand beaches, and stunning waterfalls. The Seljalandsfoss waterfall is unique, as you can walk behind it and get a different perspective of the falls. The Skogafoss waterfall, with its powerful flow of water, is a sight to behold. The black sand beach of Reynisfjara, with its basalt columns and towering cliffs, is another must-visit.
One of the unique experiences in Iceland is the opportunity to see the northern lights. The aurora borealis can be seen from September to April, and I was lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the lights on my last night in Iceland. The lights danced across the sky, creating a mesmerizing display of colors.
Iceland is also known for its hot springs and geothermal pools. The Blue Lagoon is the most famous geothermal spa in Iceland, but there are many others to choose from. The Mývatn Nature Baths, located in the north of Iceland, is a hidden gem. The warm waters of the baths are rich in minerals, and the views of the surrounding landscape are breathtaking.
Icelandic cuisine is a unique blend of fresh seafood, lamb, and traditional dishes like the Icelandic meat soup and skyr, a thick yogurt-like dairy product. The Reykjavik Food Walk is a great way to explore the city’s culinary scene and taste some of the local specialties.
In conclusion, Iceland is a destination that offers something for everyone, from stunning landscapes to unique experiences. The friendly locals and the country’s commitment to sustainable tourism make it a great place to visit. I highly recommend visiting Iceland soon and experiencing the magic of the land of fire and ice!
