10 Reasons to Visit Iceland

Curious about this Nordic island nation? Iceland is widely known as “The Land of Fire and Ice.” This country is home to some of the largest glaciers in Europe, and some of the world's most active volcanoes. Volcanoes and glaciers and no forest, oh my! This destination offers more eco-friendly activities. Iceland burns very few fossil fuels and instead uses geothermal heating! Here are 10 reasons why Iceland should be your next travel destination!  

1) Vatnajökull National Park 

This national park is one of three in Iceland. It surrounds all of Vatnajökull glacier. This decade old park is home to rivers, glaciers, and volcanic activity. The Vatnajökull glacier is Europe's largest icecap. The Vatnajökull glacier is approximately half a mile thick at its thickest point!

2) Jökulsárlón Lagoon 

Bordering the Vatnajökull National Park is this stunning glacial lagoon! These icebergs are approximately 1000 years old! During winter months you can find seals hunting the fish-filled waters. The lagoon is mix of fresh and saltwater because it opens into the sea.

3) Golden Circle of Iceland 

This popular tourist attraction is also known as the Golden Triangle. It features three breathtaking sites: a waterfall, a geyser, and a UNESCO World Heritage site. These geological features make the Golden Circle a rare gem!

4) Reykjavik

This coastal town in the country’s capital and most populated city! Stroll through the beautiful downtown of Reykjavik. If structured tours are your jam,  Reykjavik offers many different tours. From cultural tours to nature tours, there is something for everyone. Or if you do not feeling like walking or want to venture further, check out self-driving tours!

5) Blue Lagoon

Not only is the an instagramable site but it allows guest to unwind and relax is this famous lagoon! The Blue Lagoon is geothermal spa in southwestern Iceland. It is considered one of the 25 wonders of the world. 

6) Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

This world famous beach can be found on the south coast of Iceland! The sand is black due to volcanic rocks that have eroded into sand. Iceland is called the land of fire and ice. The portion is because the island was formed by volcanic eruptions. Beautiful black sand and powerful waves, what more could you ask for?

7) Breathtaking waterfalls 

Two well-known waterfalls are: Gullfoss and Háifoss. Gullfoss is located in the canyon of the Hvítá river in southwest Iceland. It has a height of 105 feet and features two drops!  Háifoss is located near the volcano Hekla in southern Iceland. It has a height of 400 feet and is the fourth largest waterfall in Iceland! Seljalandsfoss is a third waterfall located along the South Coast. What makes this waterfall exceptional is you can actually walk behind the falls for a spectacular view!

8) Food

One of my favorite things to do while traveling is experience new food! Iceland has some interesting cuisines for adventurous eaters. Important parts of an Icelandic diet are lamb, dairy, and fish! Some popular dishes are hangikjöt and skyr!

9) Strokkur Geyser

This fountain geyser located in a geothermal area beside the Hvítá River. The area is in the southwest region of the country, east of Reykjavík. It is one of Iceland's most famous geysers. It erupts once every 6–10 minutes, making it very reliable! 

10) Hallgrímskirkja

The Hallgrímskirkja is the country’s first lighthouse and largest church!  This Lutheran Church is 74.5 meters or approximately 244 feet tall! It is named after the Icelandic poet Hallgrímur Pétursson. The architecture is truly magnificent! 

This list is just a short sampling of all the reasons to visit Iceland. Full of natural beauty and adventure, there’s a reason this destination has become one of the most popular for travelers. If you’ve been to Iceland, what reasons to visit would you add to the list?

Post written by Jordan Eshbaugh

---