ETHEREAL landscapes. Hot springs. Waterfalls. Geysers. Volcanoes. Lakes. Glaciers. The countless attractions of the land of fire and ice lures!
Located in the North Atlantic Ocean, near the Arctic Circle, Iceland is always within the travelers’ radar. With an uncomfortable backstory involving volcanic eruptions, lava fields and harsh cold deserts, only a quarter of this Nordic island nation is liveable.
Although a bit pricey than other European countries, you’re surely independent if you decide to explore all there is to see.
A three-day stay could take you far and away from Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital and largest city, where most locals, habitually reticent, reside. To make the most of your short visit, plan accordingly and reserve a seat on your desired tour at the tourist information center on Laugavegur Street. Tour operators take both small and large groups.
Center of the action
Laugavegur is the most vibrant tourist hub in Reykjavik. Filled with people during the day, it’s a tourist haunt by night. Eat, drink and shop - it’s all happening here. It’s got everything every tourist needs from hotels, tourist information, supermarkets, shopping, LGBT-friendly pubs and nightclubs, dining. It’s the stomping ground for tour pick-ups and drop-offs.
Tip: Coach transfer from Keflavik International Airport to Reykjavik is €23 each.
The Golden Circle
The scenic route to the southwest of Iceland is a famous day trip for tourists. First stop, Thingvellir National Park, a Unesco World Heritage Site. It has a viewing deck for the scenic lava fields of hobbit-like turf, rocky cliffs and the primordial lake where scuba divers and snorkelers relish Silfra’s incredibly clear waters. The craggy relics of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates create a rift valley of otherworldly sight. Hence, the wildling campsite and the pathway to the Eyrie of the Game of Thrones were shot here.
Next stop, the spectacular Golden Falls surrounded by vast and open scenery. Frequented by tourists, Gullfoss is Europe’s largest multi-level waterfall. I was magnetized by its iconic nature. It is navigable with hiking paths right up to the front!
Lastly, geothermal springs and mud pools scatter near the Strokkur Geyser, which erupts every 6-10 minutes from 15 to 40 meters high. Distinctively noteworthy, they are charming to capture in videos and photos.
Tip: Dress appropriate for the weather and tread the terrain at your convenience.
Northern lights
The dazzling display of multi-colored polar lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, may be elusive at times as the weather can be unpredictable. Thankfully, my first night had a chance of sighting, coming days’ forecast was rainy and cloudy.
The tour left the city lights of idyllic Reykjavik and went far into the night. Out in the dark, the unrelenting cold reduced my iPhone’s battery capacity and rendered it absolutely useless. Although the spectacle was not as intense as the ones seen in Google, it was such a visual treat.
Tip: Use high focus cameras to capture nature’s stunning glow in the skies.
The Blue Lagoon
Near the Keflavík International Airport, many travelers decide on a detour to the lagoon. This most deserved Icelandic pampering is oh-so special, known the world over. Though admission to the pool can run from $55 for standard to eye-watering $500 for luxury, it does not detract you from indulging in the geothermal spa. Working as a locker key, your entrance bracelet can also be swiped for food and beverages in the spa.
The cold was unforgiving in the open, so I chose respite in the 1.2-meter-deep waters in between sauna baths and steam cave breaks.
Tip: Bring some food with you as prices are upsetting inside.
The South Coast
Heavy snowfall from November to February could make the south inaccessible. Far removed from Reykjavik by vast glaciers, lakes, lava fields and unspoilt nature, during the dead of winter, the south coast comes to a standstill.
When the weather is glorious, rent a car and drive unhurriedly around the south on your terms. What is great about this is that you can linger at natural wonders and go off the beaten path. You can even camp out at night without fear of being met with violence or under threat of animal attacks (unless in water). Folklore has it that elves can see you through the night if you behave.
Tip: You need an extra memory card for many a picturesque spot.
Taste of Icelandic food
Icelandic cuisine can certainly be expensive; however, every tourist must have a taste of something peculiar. Consisting of arctic fish like fermented shark and smoked salmon, sheep’s head (everything in it), reindeer steak, horse or puffin meat, the soft cheese Skyr, rye bread (baked in geothermal hot grounds) and lamb hotdogs (most-liked). These are some local dishes that guests just rave about.
The “Fish of the Day” at Scandinavian Restaurant’s entrance attracted my attention and helped me decide what to eat (I usually order something disappointing). I had never heard of Atlantic wolfish; although it was a bit costly, I experienced “an epic taste more delicious than the fish’s looks!”
Tip: Try local beers like Viking, Thule, Freyja or Arctic Ale for a nightcap.