Fire and Ice. This is what Iceland is famous for – active volcanoes and geothermal activity next door to glaciers and icefields. The current eruption of Iceland’s Eyjafjallajokull volcano and its effect on European air space has certainly shown just how powerful nature can be. While European airports were shut down, Iceland’s Keflavik International Airport, west of the eruption, remained open as scientists and adventure travellers rushed to witness the mammoth event. Bonnie Hinschberger discovered Iceland while planning a tour for an outdoor adventure company last June. She found this remote island in the North Atlantic to be an outdoor lover’s paradise with its variety of untouched landscapes and stunning scenery.
Considering taking an Iceland tour? Here are some of the highlights that might be included.
- Snaefellsness Peninsula and Snaefellsjokull Glacier – The rugged West coast with its high waves is very dramatic and home to this amazing glacier. The locals like to hike up and ski down – no chairlifts here!
- The Golden Circle – This scenic route is doable from Reykjavik in a day. It comprises the geothermally active valley of Haukadalur, Gullfoss waterfall and Thingvellier National Park. There is much of importance to see along the way including the reliable “Strokkur” geyser and the great “Geyser” where the name originated. In the park, you can see the original site of the oldest parliament in the world which was founded by the Vikings. There’s also a site where you can view the Great Atlantic Rift, a rift that is slowly pulling Iceland apart along the North American and European tectonic plates.
- Southern Iceland – Here you’ll find a lowland region of rich farmlands. In April farmers were getting the sheep and cattle out to fields for the summer. There are also magnificent black sand beaches, striking twisted lava rocks, glaciers, charming villages, and yes, many more photo opportunities! A hike to the top of Skogafoss waterfall presented us with breathtaking scenery and magical moments viewing the nesting fulmars in the misty rainbows. Simply spectacular!
- Lake Myvatn region – From the northern fishing village of Akureyri we explored this fascinating geothermal region with its bubbling mud flats, volcanic craters, lava fields, geothermal pools as well as geothermal power stations. (Geothermal power plants provide power to 90% of the residents.) The grassy wetlands in the area were teeming with many species of birds returning home to nest for the summer.
- Nature Baths and Spas – Swimming is a daily activity in Iceland. Every village has a community pool called a bath heated by a geothermal source. Health spas attract visitors to Iceland for natural cures. The Myvatn Nature Bath has a natural blend of nutrients and microorganisms with unique health benefits. The largest of the health spas is the Blue Lagoon situated near the airport. People fly in from around the world for psoriasis and other treatments. Blue Lagoon products are sold around the world.
We recommend the Wonders of Iceland or the 9 day Natural Wonders of Iceland tour.
Iceland’s tours offer extraordinary access to one of the world’s most dramatic landscapes. For comprehensive Iceland planning, our advisors’ Iceland’s Must See Sites guide is the essential resource.
