Located on a bay, presided over by mighty mount Esja, Iceland’s sprawling capital city stands in stark contrast to the quiet fishing villages and minute hamlets of the remarkable island nation. The hub is progressive, yet proudly traditional; remote, yet surprisingly cosmopolitan; inextricably tied to its natural landscape, yet embracing modern technology. The tiny city centre is characterised by an eclectic mix of brightly painted houses, elegant shops, stylish bars, and highbrow museums. A slew of restaurants serves up a delicious range of culinary delights as well as an array of exotic treats (try the pickled ram’s testicles and putrefied shark meat). Whether you plan on spending your vacation gallery-hopping while listening to Bjork on repeat, scuba diving between tectonic plates, or relaxing in the myriad geothermal pools, Reykjavik is the ultimate destination for pleasure seekers and adventure junkies alike.
Spreading northwards of Reykjavik, West Iceland or Vesturland is a beautiful region where nature takes centre stage. Boasting a dazzling kaleidoscope of volcanoes, hot springs, plunging cliffs, undulating green hills, astonishing waterfalls, and gorgeous bays, the area is a wonderland of exploration inextricably linked to local folklore. Highlights include dramatic Djúpalón Beach; Glymur Waterfall, reached by an exciting trail filled with diverse scenery; and spectacular Snæfellsjökull National Park, with Snæfellsjökull Glacier inspiring artists and poets over hundreds of years. Delve into the area’s rich heritage with a visit to any unique and varied museums; make sure to stop at the Eiríksstaðir living museum to see how Vikings once lived. Animal lovers will delight in the Icelandic Goats at Háafell and the Icelandic horses at Sturlu Reykir.
Hveragerdi is an enthralling town set in a geothermal area in southern Iceland roughly 45 kilometres east of Reykjavik. The village is often referred to as the ‘Earthquake Town’ or the ‘Hot Spring Town’ for its vibrant geothermal activity. Spreading across a 5000-year-old lava field, the rich area is lush and fruitful and steam can often be seen rising from the fjords between the hills, where visitors can bathe to their hearts’ content. This unusual ‘power’ has helped the town develop a wonderful agricultural scene, and inhabitants have been able to grow an enormous amount of fruit including berries, bananas, and papayas. Other reasons to visit include the plentiful salmon and trout of the Varma river, the numerous wonderful hiking trails, the astounding photogenic surrounds, and the abundance of luxurious and varied spa and health facilities.
Resting at the base of the magnificent Mýrdalsjökull glacier the remote village of Vik, also known as Vík í Mýrdal rests on Iceland’s exquisite southern coast. The village of Vík í Mýrdal is a popular stopover for intrepid travellers keen to see all the stunning attractions this remote region has to offer. The closest village to the majestic Katla volcano and Myrdalsjokull glacier, Vík í Mýrdal is also known for its black pebble beaches and intriguing rock formations. Visitors can swim in Seljavallalaug, the oldest hot spring pool in Iceland; visit the Reynisfjall mountain, famous for its many bird species; or head to the coast to view the iconic Reynisdrangar – black basalt columns sculpted by the sea and located close to the village.
As previously described
