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.
Situated in the southern reaches of beautiful Iceland, Kálfafell lies just 25 kilometres east of Kirkjuaejarklaustur, halfway between Vik and the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. The town offers incredible mountain and glacier views, green rolling landscapes and pure Icelandic charm, making it a perfect place to get a sense of the region. Visitors can explore the area’s network of hiking trails, enjoy a guided tour into Iceland’s spectacular wilderness and sample local Icelandic dishes. It serves as an excellent base from which to explore Vatnajokull’s spectacular lava fields and the breathtaking beauty of Skaftafell National Park. Don’t miss a relaxing soak in the geothermal outdoor pool at Kirkjuaejarklaustur village. Lucky visitors can catch a glimpse of the magical northern lights on a clear night.
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.
Located in West Iceland, the picturesque town of Borgarnes serves as the gateway to the world-renowned Snaefellsnes National Park. This little town boasts an authentic atmosphere, rich history, and spectacular scenery. Explore the old quarter, which is filled with heritage buildings; visit Borgarfjörður Museum, one of Iceland’s best; and stroll through the beautiful Skallagrimsgaraur Public Park. Nature-lovers should not miss the chance to hike in the Einkunnir Country Park or climb the nearby Hafnarfjall Mountain. Other highlights include taking a swim in an indoor or outdoor geothermal pool or photographing the spectacular views of the rugged peninsula, the Snaefellsjokull, and Eiríksjokull glaciers on a clear day.
The Snaefellsnes Peninsula lies on the west coast of Iceland. Often referred to as ‘Iceland in miniature’, this beautiful region offers glaciers, fjords, hot springs, volcanoes and lava fields to admire – and is generally less crowded than the country’s famed Golden Circle tour itinerary. Key stops include the imposing Gerduberg Cliffs; Ytri Tunga Seal Beach, which is best visited in summer; the lovely waterfall of Bjarnarfoss and the photogenic Budakirkja Black Church, a wooden structure from the 19th century. The extreme western section of the peninsula, meanwhile, is occupied by the Snaefellsjokull National Park, which contains the glacier of the same name, as well as the interesting Djupalonssandur Black Beach and Saxholar Crater. Active travellers will relish the Arnarstapi to Hellnar Hike, which winds through lava fields with spectacular rock formations and sea caves.
