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ChernobylX Iceland is a land of contrasts, where fire and ice coexist in harmony, and the natural landscape is truly breathtaking. From the roaring waterfalls to the glistening glaciers, the Northern Lights to the soothing hot springs, Iceland is a land of wonder that never ceases to amaze visitors.
Today, we’ll take a look at some of the best things to do in Iceland, from the famous attractions to the hidden gems that are off the beaten path. Whether you’re an adventurer, a nature lover, or simply looking to unwind in the beauty of nature, Iceland has something for everyone. So grab your hiking boots, pack your bags, and let’s explore the best things to do in Iceland.
Iceland’s Golden Circle
Reykjavik town (view from church tower)Photo: ChernobylX
Are you ready to visit Iceland’s Golden Circle – one of the country’s most popular tourist routes? It’s a circular route that starts and ends in Reykjavik, covering around 300 kilometers.
The Golden Circle consists of three main stunning attractions in Southwest Iceland:
- Thingvellir National Park
- The Geysir Geothermal Area
- Gullfoss Waterfall
Thingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the site of Iceland’s first parliament. It’s also the place where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet. Visitors can walk between the two continents and see the rift valley where they are pulling apart.
Geysir is another popular stop on the Golden Circle. It’s the original geyser that all others are named after. Although it’s no longer as active as it once was, the nearby Strokkur geyser erupts every 5 to 10 minutes, shooting boiling water and steam up to 30 meters into the air.
Gullfoss waterfall is the final stop on the Golden Circle. The waterfall is a two-tiered fall that drops 32 meters into a narrow canyon. You can get close to the falls on a walking path that leads down to the edge of the canyon.
The Golden Circle is not just about the three main attractions, though. There are several other stops along the way that are worth exploring, such as Kerid Crater Lake, Skalholt Church, and the Secret Lagoon hot spring.
Journeying through the Enchanting Crystal Ice Cave in Iceland
The Crystal Ice Cave is a natural wonder located in Iceland that attracts visitors from all over the world. The cave is renowned for its shimmering blue walls and ceilings, which are made of ice that has been slowly frozen and thawed over thousands of years. But what is the history behind this beautiful natural wonder?
The ice cave is located in Vatnajökull National Park, which covers approximately 14% of Iceland’s total land area. Vatnajökull is the largest glacier in Iceland and the second-largest in Europe (approximately 8,100 square kilometers). It covers about 8% of Iceland’s total landmass and is up to 1,000 meters thick in some places. The ice cave is located underneath the glacier and was formed by a combination of meltwater and geothermal heat.
The cave was discovered in the early 2000s by local guides who were exploring the area. It was then that they stumbled upon the cave, and its incredible beauty was immediately recognized. Since then, the cave has become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world.
The Crystal Ice Cave is not a permanent fixture and changes every year depending on the melting and freezing of the glacier. The cave is only accessible during the winter months when the temperatures are low enough for the ice to remain solid. As a result, each year the cave takes on a unique and distinct form, making every visit a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Visiting the Crystal Ice Cave is not only a breathtaking experience but also an opportunity to witness the natural beauty and power of Iceland’s glaciers. It is a reminder of the importance of protecting these natural wonders and the need for sustainable tourism practices.
In recent years, the popularity of the Crystal Ice Cave has increased, and there has been some concern about the impact of tourism on the cave’s fragile ecosystem. To address these concerns, there are now strict guidelines for visiting the cave to minimize the impact on the delicate environment.
Chasing Iceland’s Waterfalls
Iceland is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, especially for waterfalls. Two of its most famous are the Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls. Both are located along the south coast of Iceland and offer stunning views and unique experiences for visitors.
Skógafoss Waterfall
Skógafoss Waterfall is one of the most magnificent waterfalls in Iceland, located on the Skógá River in the south of the country about 150 kilometers from Reykjavik. Waterfall is 60 meters tall and 25 meters wide, where you can easily walk up to the base of the waterfall and feel the spray of mist on their faces. On sunny days, rainbows can be seen arching over the falls, creating a truly magical sight.
The history of Skógafoss dates back to the settlement period of Iceland. According to legend, Þrasi Þórólfsson, a Viking settler in the area, buried a treasure in a cave behind the waterfall. The legend goes that locals found the chest years later, but only managed to grab the ring on its side before the chest disappeared again.
The first written account of Skógafoss dates back to the 18th century, where it was described by Eggert Ólafsson, an Icelandic explorer and naturalist, in his travelogue. He wrote that the waterfall was “the most beautiful waterfall in Iceland”.
In the 20th century, Skógafoss became more accessible with the construction of the Ring Road, which passes close by the waterfall. This led to an increase in tourism in the area, and the waterfall has since become one of the most visited sites in Iceland.
Today, visitors can not only admire the beauty of the waterfall, but also climb the 527 steps to the top of the nearby cliff, offering a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. Skógafoss is also home to the Skógar Folk Museum, which showcases the history and culture of Iceland’s rural past.
In addition to the main waterfall, there are several smaller falls in the area that are also worth exploring. Gljúfrafoss, also known as the “hidden waterfall,” is located a short walk from Seljalandsfoss and is hidden behind a narrow canyon.
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
This stunning waterfall is located in the southern part of Iceland, about 120 km from Reykjavik, and is part of the Seljalands River.
The history of Seljalandsfoss dates back to the formation of the Icelandic landscape thousands of years ago. The waterfall was created during the last ice age, when glaciers covered much of Iceland. As the glaciers retreated, they left behind a series of waterfalls, including Seljalandsfoss.
The name “Seljalandsfoss” is derived from the Icelandic word “sel”, which means “farm”, and “foss”, which means “waterfall”. The waterfall is named after the nearby Seljalands farm, which was once one of the most prosperous farms in the region.
In the early 20th century, the waterfall and the surrounding area were purchased by the Icelandic government, and the area was designated as a protected nature reserve in the 1960s. Today, the Seljalandsfoss waterfall is one of the most photographed and visited sites in Iceland, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
In addition to its natural beauty, Seljalandsfoss has also played an important role in Icelandic folklore and history. According to legend, a treasure chest was once hidden behind the waterfall by a group of Irish monks. The chest was said to contain a valuable treasure, including gold, silver, and precious stones. Although many have searched for the treasure over the years, it has never been found.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or simply looking for a breathtaking photo opportunity, this incredible waterfall is not to be missed on your next visit to Iceland.
Tips for Visiting: Both Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season. To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit early in the morning or later in the evening. Additionally, be prepared for changing weather conditions, as Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable. Wear warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes for walking on wet and rocky terrain.
Diamond Beach: A Shimmering Oasis in the Heart of Iceland’s Glaciers
Diamond Beach(near Skaftafell)Photo: ChernobylX
Diamond Beach, also known as Breiðamerkursandur, is a unique and stunning beach located in Iceland. The beach gets its name from the glittering icebergs that wash up on its black sand shores, giving the appearance of diamonds scattered across the beach.
The ice that forms on the beach comes from the nearby Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, where large chunks of ice break off from the glacier and drift into the Atlantic Ocean. The ice chunks then get washed back to shore by the tides, where they rest on the black sand beach like precious jewels. The ice comes in various shapes and sizes, ranging from small pebbles to massive chunks of ice that can weigh several tons.
One of the most striking things about Diamond Beach is the way the ice reflects the light, creating a mesmerizing effect that is hard to describe. As the sun hits the ice, it sparkles and shines like diamonds, which is how the beach got its name.
Diamond Beach is not only a natural wonder, but it is also a photographer’s dream come true. The stunning scenery and contrasting colors make for incredible photographs, which is why it has become a popular destination for both amateur and professional photographers.
In addition to the ice and the sand, Diamond Beach is also a great place to spot wildlife. Seals are often seen basking on the ice, and birds can be seen flying overhead. It is truly a unique and special place that should not be missed when visiting Iceland.
It is easily accessible by car, and there is plenty of parking available.
BUT you should be aware of the dangers of getting too close to the water, as the tides can be unpredictable and the water can be extremely cold.
Mysterious Beauty of Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Reynisfjara (black sand beach)Photo: ChernobylX
Reynisfjara is a black sand beach located on the south coast of Iceland, near the small village of Vík í Mýrdal. It is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and unique beaches in the world. The beach is characterized by its towering basalt sea stacks, dramatic cliffs, and black sand.
The basalt sea stacks, known as Reynisdrangar, rise out of the ocean just off the coast of the beach. According to Icelandic folklore, these stacks were once trolls who were turned to stone by the rising sun. The cliffs surrounding the beach are also made of basalt and are shaped by the constant pounding of the waves.
Reynisfjara is also known for its dangerous waves, and visitors are advised to be cautious when approaching the water. Powerful waves and strong currents can easily drag swimmers out to sea, and sneaker waves can come up suddenly and catch people off guard.
The beach has been used as a filming location for several movies and television shows, including Game of Thrones.
In addition to its natural beauty, Reynisfjara also has a rich history. The nearby village of Vík was once an important trading center for wool, and many of the traditional Icelandic woolen products are still made there today. The area is also home to several historic churches, including Vík Church, which was built in the late 19th century and is known for its distinctive red roof.
Iceland is a destination that offers a plethora of activities and attractions that cater to a wide range of interests. Whether you are seeking breathtaking natural wonders, fascinating historical landmarks, or thrilling outdoor activities, Iceland has something to offer for everyone. From the Golden Circle and its iconic sights to the stunning waterfalls and black sand beaches, Iceland will leave you with unforgettable memories.
At ChernobylX, we are dedicated to providing exceptional tour experiences that showcase the very best of Iceland’s beauty and wonder.
Join us for a journey that will inspire and amaze you, and discover why Iceland is truly a land of fire and ice.
