Iceland; a diverse and highly underrated country packed with fascinating culture and natural beauty.
Perched on the base of the Arctic, it isn’t as easy to access as the rest of Europe, but with a short three hour flight from London you can discover some of the most spectacular sights in the world. Due to its off the beaten track reputation and niche market appeal, Iceland isn’t populated with tourists over the summer like other holiday destinations, and unsurprisingly that is the best time to visit. However you won’t see the Northern Lights in summer so keep that in mind if it’s on your hit list. Iceland isn’t the cheapest country to explore with prices that resemble that of Scandanavia, but after the recent Icelandic financial crisis it is now much more affordable than a few years ago.
There is so much to see and do in Iceland, we’re sure you will be convinced after seeing our pick of the seven best sights of the country that we have pictured below.
See the Northern Lights
Watching the breath-taking Northern Lights colour the skies is one for the bucket list and you can tick it off any time between September and April. The capital Reykjavik offer rare sightings but for an increased chance venture out of the city for at least thirty minutes. A comfortable option is to view them from the geothermal pool in Reykjanes so that you stay warm!
Gullfoss
A captivating waterfall that flows into a 2.5 kilometre long crevice in the Hvita river, in the southwest of Iceland. Enjoy a leisurely hike to the waterfall with the assurance that the dramatic and awe inspiring falls are worth the effort.
Jökulsárlón (The Jökulsár Lagoon)
Currently standing at 1.5 kilometres high is this glacier which sits on the borders of Vatnajökull National Park. Thanks to the constant supply of melting ice from the glacier, the lagoon is the deepest lake in Iceland at over 248 metres. Many tour operators offer trips to the glacier from the base station at Joklasel.
Reykjavík
This quirky and colourful capital city is a must-see while in Iceland. It’s the country’s hub of creativity and culture with its alternative architecture, while still possessing the qualities of a quaint village thanks to the charming and friendly locals.
The Blue Lagoon
One of the most visited sights of Iceland is the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, located 40 minutes drive away from Reykjavik. The natural spa is heated by a lava formation and temperatures reach 39 degrees celcius. The warm waters contain many minerals, including silica and sulphur, which is reportedly healing to skin diseases.
Thingvellir National Park
Thingvellir is a UNESCO world heritage sight and was created in 1930 to reserve the site of the longest-standing Parliament established in 930. The national park is a centrepiece of Icelandic identity; historically, culturally and geographically.
Glacial Trek
Winter is the best time for a trek as the ice as hardened and tour groups offer guided treks. True to its name, you will never see a glacier as vast and beautiful as those in Iceland.
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