Recently, I had a good look at Iceland after watching to Netflix series; ‘Lava Field’ and ‘Trapped’ both set against Iceland`s barren volcanic landscape. Unlike most European locations, Iceland is one of the few where I would consider escorted tours over self-directed holidays. Iceland’s stark landscape has a wealth of natural beauty, but much of it is not easy to get to, which explains why such a small country has such a huge travel industry. Like Canada, Icelandic tourism benefits from  the northern lights, and there are numerous winter tours devoted to just that. However, Iceland offers much more, and is a true year-round tourist destination.

Highlights

Reykjavik

Blue Lagoon Spa – Harpa Concert Hall – Laekjartorg – Reykjavik City Hall – The Old Harbour – Reykjavik Maritime Museum – Whales of Iceland – National Museum – Hallgrimskirkja – Perlan – Laugardalur Valley – Hofdi House – Solfarid – The Sun Voyager

Natural Wonders

• Glymur waterfall
• Raufarholshellir Lava Caves
• Latrabjarg sea cliffs
• Hornbjarg sea cliffs
• Aldeyjarfoss waterfall
• Dettifoss waterfall (Jokulsargljufur National Park)
• Laki Craters
• Askja Mountain
• Thingvellir National Park
• Geysir hot springs
• Gullfoss waterfall
• Seljalandsfoss and Skogarfoss waterfalls
• Reynisfjara black sand beach
• Reynisdrangar peaks and basalt column cave
• Skaftafell and Vatnajokull National Park
• Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon
• Hengifoss waterfall
• Myvatn Nature Baths
• Godafoss waterfall (Akureyri)
• Barnafoss waterfall (Deildartunguhver)

Iceland has numerous tour operators offering package excursions for anywhere from one to several days. Iceland Air and Reykjavik Tours are two of the best known services, but there are plenty more to choose from. There is no rail system in Iceland so travel is by car, bus, air or in some cases by boat. No matter which option you choose, be prepared for sticker shock. Iceland is not cheap. To me, the ideal way to see Iceland would be by car, and many tour operators offer camper tours where you follow a set course and camp near your destinations. However, since I don’t drive, the bus tour is likely the simplest option. Its best to shop around especially if you intend to visit a lot of these sites since you may not find everything you are looking for with one vendor.  That being said, you may also need to prioritise since it would be difficult and very expensive to do it all in one trip.

More to come…