Iceland
Top Tips
The Blue Lagoon
Start your trip with a soak in these warm geothermal waters, just
20 minutes’ drive across the lava fields from the airport.
It’s a surreal experience, even if a bit touristy.
The Golden Circle
Gullfoss (Iceland’s most famous waterfall), Geysir (the
spouting hot springs which gave its name to all others) and
Thingvellir (the site of both Iceland’s first parliament and
of shifting continental plates) are an easy day trip from Reykjavik
and offer a great introduction to Iceland’s stunning volcanic
beauty.
Horse riding
Even beginners can ride the small, sturdy Icelandic horses, which
have a unique extra gait. Horses are available for hire from farms
all over Iceland
Snowmobiling
Spend an exhilarating couple of hours whizzing around on top of one
of Iceland’s ice caps. On a clear day the view from
Snaefellsnes glacier on the Western Peninsula is spectacular
(snowsuits and helmets are provided by the operators).
Whale Watching
Take a boat trip from Reykjavik or Husavik on the north coast to
see dolphins, purpoises, minke whales and orca. Olafsvik on the
Western Peninsula is probably the best place in Europe for spotting
the huge blue whale. Boats depart daily in summer.
Nightlife in Reykjavik
Join the locals on the ‘Runtur’, non-stop partying on
Friday night in the trendy bars of Reykjavik.
Jokulsarlon
Take a boat amongst the icebergs of this glacial lagoon in southern
Iceland.
Dettifoss
Europe’s most powerful waterfall is in the northeastern
Jokulsargljufur National Park which offers spectacular
hiking.
Birdwatching
Head to Lake Myvtan in northeast Iceland for the country’s
best birdlife, extraordinary volcanic features, bubbling mud and
stem vents. In summer take a boat tour to the islands off the
Western Pensinsula where puffins breed.
Fly-fishing
Iceland is famous for its rich salmon and trout rivers.