Iceland, also known as the ‘Land of Fire and Ice’, is home to impressive volcanoes, stunning glaciers, magnificent landscapes, and vivid turquoise lagoons. 80% of the land is uninhabited because of its unique geographical features. Iceland stands out as a tourist attraction for its extraordinary landscape and stunning scenery. Iceland’s tourist spots cater to an array of interests. Film buffs can explore Hollywood filming sites, thrill seekers can speed across volcanoes, on ATVs and nature enthusiasts can witness killer whales hunting herring in deep fjords. The Blue Lagoon The Blue Lagoon in Iceland is famous for its beauty with cloudy turquoise waters, misty steam, and dark lava hills as a backdrop. It comes as no surprise that it stands out as one of the captured locations in the country. Beyond its aesthetics, the lagoon is popular for its mineral waters that offer visitors a chance for relaxation. With water temperatures remaining comfortably warm at 39°C all year, visitors can enjoysunsets and may even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. Guests can also treat themselves by applying silica mud masks or savoring a drink from the poolside bar. Whale Watching The waters, near the coastline of Iceland are known to attract a range of life leading whales to gather in these areas. Iceland’s northern coast is well known in Europe for its life. Take a boat excursion, along the fjord to spot whale species such, as orcas, sei whales, fin whales, humpback whales and blue whales. During July the Westman Islands off the coast offer opportunities to see killer whales. Apart, from these creatures, visitors might also catch a glimpse of basking sharks and beaked dolphins. The Northern Lights The captivating display of the Northern Lights brought to life by the interplay of particles and Earth’s magnetic field is a sight that every traveler should experience. It’s no surprise that beholding the mesmerizing violet hues dancing across a backdrop of volcanoes and glaciers is hailed as one of our planets breathtaking views. In Iceland this enchanting natural light show can be witnessed illuminating the skies above the lit capital city of Reykjavík. The optimal period to organize a trip, to Iceland and witness this spectacle is during the months from September, to March, when the nights are long and dark. Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon Unlike Bonds high octane adventures Jökulsárlón offers a tranquil and scenic environment that’s a contrast to his action-packed escapades. Here all you’ll hear are the soothing sounds of glaciers melting into the waters and the playful splashes of seals frolicking amidst the ice. This unique and enchanting atmosphere is what makes this place so captivating and truly worth a visit. If you’re eager to explore on land, take a walk through Skaftafell National Park for an excursion, around Svínafellsjökull and Skaftafell glacier. Reynisfjara Beach Reynisfjara Beach, in Iceland isn’t a destination for visitors; it has also been showcased in the famous television series Game of Thrones. The beach’s dramatic scenery, including its shores, basalt formations and stunning sunrises and sunsets provided a backdrop, for portraying a realm of dragons and royalty. Local legends tell tales of the towering rocks near the shore once being trolls, transformed into stone. Despite its charm the beach can be dangerous. Unpredictable ‘sneaker waves’ present a hazard and accidents can turn tragic without lifeguards. To stay safe, visitors should pay attention to warning signs on the beach. The Grandeur of Gullfoss Gullfoss, also called ‘Golden Falls is made up of two waterfalls flowing into a canyon. Is a beloved attraction, in Iceland. It is a stop along the Golden Circle route, which covers 140 miles and showcases three of Iceland’s natural sights (more details on the other two will be provided later). In the past there were proposals to utilize the waterfalls power for purposes. However, thanks to Sigridur Tomasdottir’s efforts – a resident near the falls – the developers eventually abandoned their plans allowing Gullfoss to remain untouched, in its form. Tomasdottir, recognized as Iceland’s trailblazing advocate led initiatives to preserve and safeguard the country’s beauty. Her activism has helped conserve some of Iceland’s landscapes. Thingvellir National Park Thingvellir National Park sits on the Golden Circle route, nestled in a valley sculpted by the shifting of two plates. This distinctive landscape showcases canyons, majestic cliffs and winding rivers. Over time the shifting plates have created cracks and faults giving rise to formations, like Almannagjá. Visitors have the opportunity to hike between the tectonic plates in this park with historical significance, which was once home to Iceland’s parliament dating back to 930 AD. Fans of the popular series ‘Game of Thrones might recognize some of the landscapes here. Whether you’re, into hiking, history or fantasy television Thingvellir National Park is sure to captivate all travelers with its mesmerizing scenery. Geysir Geothermal Geysir, situated in Iceland, is part of the Golden Circle. This geothermal region is renowned for its springs and geysers, with one geyser bearing the name. Although Geysir itself is currently inactive, the Strokkur geyser erupts every six to ten minutes, sending a column of steam and water 65 feet into the sky. The predictability of this display guarantees that you will witness it immediately during your visit to the hot spring. Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss Waterfall Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss are two waterfalls that should not be missed if you are visiting Iceland. Seljalandsfoss, which originates from a volcanic glacier is a part of Seljalands river. Skógafoss is a part of Skóga river and is one of the biggest waterfalls in the country. What makes Seljalandsfoss different? At Seljalandsfoss, you can not only watch the beautiful waterfall but also can walk past the waterfall that takes you right behind the 200-foot cascade as it drops into the pool below. Landmannalaugar Landmannalaugar is famous, for its scenery featuring mountains made of rhyolite a rock known for its range of colors. Popular, among summer hikers the undulating hills offer a display of yellow, blue and green hues evoking a sense of stepping into
What to eat in Iceland: Top 9 Icelandic cuisines
Iceland offers a experience ranging from the bustling city life of Reykjavík, to the tranquil mountain communities in the country. Although traditional dishes featuring fish and meat are still widely enjoyed there has been a growing trend towards vegan and vegetarian food options in Iceland. This shift in cuisine has led to an increased availability of vegan menu choices and restaurants, across the nation catering to the needs of vegans and vegetarians conveniently. Throughout the years Icelandic individuals have treasured skyr, a dairy product, to yogurt. Traditionally skyr was crafted at home with each farm boasting its recipe. Nowadays it is readily available in stores and markets. Skyr holds a place in the hearts of Icelanders for its energizing properties. It can be enjoyed for breakfast as a midday snack or as part of a meal. Available in flavors skyr is an indulgence that can also be blended into smoothies. In the past children often started their day, with skyr topped with a hint of sugar. Skyr might just be one of Iceland’s renowned offerings. 2. Icelandic Lamb Icelandic sheep originally brought to Iceland by Viking settlers, around the 10th century have gained a reputation as one of the breeds globally. Their delectable and tender lamb is a choice in restaurants and home kitchens alike with traditional recipes featuring roasts and savory dishes. The flavor of their meat is enhanced by grazing on grass and herbs all day in Iceland while the minimal use of pesticides, in farming methods contributes to the quality of the end product. Icelandic cooking has ties, to fishing a sector of the country’s economy for ages. Currently it is contributing to Iceland’s resurgence after the decline, in 2008. Iceland boasts a selection of seafood choices from Atlantic Cod commonly found in fish and chips to langoustine dishes making it a haven, for seafood lovers. Fish is a part of their cuisine whether grilled, roasted, fried, stewed or mashed for dishes like Plokkfiskur. Hardfiskur, a form of fish jerky produced by air drying cod or haddock is commonly available, in supermarkets. 3. Fermented Shark This unique Icelandic dish might not be everyone’s cup of tea. It’s a choice, as a traditional snack at bars in Reykjavík. If you happen to be, in a bar in Reykjavík you might be tempted to sample it. Fermented shark offers a taste and a chewy consistency that may pose a challenge for individuals. The origins of this delicacy date to times when food was scarce leading locals to use preservation methods like fermenting shark meat. Although scarcity is no longer an issue fermented shark remains a part of the country’s history and traditions earning its place in this guide, to Icelandic cuisine. 4. Brennivín Liquor Brennivín, also known as Black Death is a beverage, in Iceland that is often enjoyed in shots at special gatherings. This distinctive Icelandic drink features notes of cumin along with touches of caraway, licorice and hints of citrus. Brennivín is typically paired with fish dishes, pickled herring. It is well known for its ability to complement fermented shark offsetting the flavor of this unique dish. For those who prefer beer, over spirits you can explore breweries to taste some craft beers. 5. Reykjavík’s Hot Dogs (Pylsur) Icelandic people often choose hotdogs as their snack while, on the go. It’s so well liked that some consider it to be Iceland’s dish. Tourists also enjoy this budget friendly treat. In Reykjavik you can locate Baejarins Beztu Pylsur, the hot dog stand, in the city. This renowned spot has been serving customers for over sixty years. Is located in the city harbor. It’s easily recognizable by the line of both locals and tourists waiting outside. A must try experience, in Reykjavík is the hotdog made from a blend of beef, lamb and pork topped with a variety of toppings. 6. Rye Bread Rye bread holds a position in culinary tradition and boasts an intriguing past. Historically, rye bread was baked underground using heat sources from geothermal activity. This involved placing the dough in a clay pot and burying it underground for a day of baking – truly showcasing the artistry of quality bread. Today, some bakeries uphold this tradition. If you have the chance to visit a geothermal bakery, make sure to savor the baked bread straight from the pot. Alternatively, you can drop by one of Reykjavik’s cafes to relish rye bread. Savor this treat, with a layer of butter and a dash of sea salt. Alternatively, it pairs well with cream cheese. Smoked salmon, from Iceland. 7. Geothermal Tomato Soup Despite not being native to the Arctic, these Mediterranean fruits are grown all year round in Iceland, thanks to the country’s geothermal power. Glasshouses, heated by energy on farms, some of which welcome visitors and even have cafes, yield bountiful tomatoes. If you ever find yourself at one of these farms, like Fridheimar in Southern Iceland, you’ll notice they steer clear of pesticides. This leads to each tomato being organic and incredibly tasty, making them an ideal choice for an evening of comforting and nourishing tomato soup dinner. 8. Ice Cream Despite the weather, in Iceland locals have a tradition of enjoying ice cream. Many believe that treating themselves to a scoop of ice cream helps them feel warm and cozy. If you want to put this theory to the test why not give it a try? As you explore Iceland you’ll find ice cream shops scattered throughout every town and village. Stepping inside one of these parlors you’ll likely feel a sense of delight to that of a child entering a candy store with an assortment of tempting flavors waiting to be sampled. Among them you might encounter some options, like rye bread flavored ice cream. 9. Liquorice Liquorice plays a role, in this society to its popularity in various Nordic countries, where it’s called lakkrís. Thriving in Iceland’s environment liquorice plants have. Produced their tasty roots without blooming. For years liquorice has been