Iceland is located in the North Atlantic Ocean. Only 10% of the island is actually ice. The remaining 90% is composed of geothermal hot spots, rugged terrain, and volcanoes. These volcanoes are what have brought the country into international headlines this past year. They are also what gives the country such character and are the main attraction. People come to Iceland for it's natural, but desolate environment.
The country has a fairly mild climate and due to it's close proximity to the Arctic Circle the best time to visit is in the summer months when you can experience the majesty of the midnight sun. During the summer months the sun just barely dips below the horizon before rising again.
Visitors generally arrive and stay in the country's capital, Reykjavik, which is located in the Southwestern portion of the country. The city is not built with tourists in mind and therefore visitors get a very "local" experience. The city has great nightlife, and many people visit for this alone. Those who are looking to experience the desolate landscape have options when getting away from the capital. Many of the well known tourist sites are within an hour or two from the capital. There are many tours both via bus and air from Reykjavik to the country's glaciers, hot springs, and volcanoes.
One of the most well known sites in Iceland is the "Blue Lagoon." There are several bus trips from the capital to this year which is approximately 45 minutes away. This famous outdoor health center and spa is the product of a nearby geothermal power plant. The waters average approximately 104 degrees fahrenheit and are comforting in any temperature. They are rich in minerals including silica and sulfur. Spend a day soaking in the waters and spreading the mud along your body and I'm sure the stresses of every day life will melt away. The center even offers spa products composed of minerals within the waters, so you can take your experience home with you.
While swimming in the geothermal waters is one of the most popular activities of the Icelandic people, hiking is just as popular. The volcanoes and glaciers lead to a rugged terrain with much to see. Southern Iceland is one of the best places to experience this landscape. The most popular national park, and UNESCO World Heritage site, Pingvellir, is located in this region. The park has a distinct landscape, as both the North American and European tectonic plates are tearing apart, resulting in visible fissures. Also located in South Iceland is Geysir. It is exactly what the name implies, a geyser, and is the namesake for these worldwide phenomenons. Visitor get unrestricted views of this geyser. Unfortunately Geysir does not errupt frequently, but is located near five other geysers that erupt every few minutes. There are also serveral striking hot springs. Not far from Geysir is Gulfoss which is a double waterfall, and happens to be the largest waterfall by volume in Europe.
Visitors do not need to just stay in the South and Western regions of Iceland. The east coast of the country is the location of the largest glacier in the country, and also has various beautiful fjords. Fjords are also prominent in the northwestern portion of the country. Luckily air travel is very common and travelers can easily take a small plane from Reykiavik to these various sites throughout the country. The other common form of travel is by car, and most sites can be reached but be careful as roads can be closed due to muddy conditions.
I was stunned to find out how beautiful this country is, and feel it's name doesn't do it justice. My plan for visiting Iceland will be as a layover on the way to Europe. Most transatlantic flights fly right over Iceland, and there is an option for a layover in the country. I would plan on spending 3-5 days in Iceland and continue on to the main European continent (to be written about at a later date)!
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