guide 100 2015 04 24 3030 a4
ICELAND MINUBE TRAVEL GUIDE
The best must-see places for your travels, all discovered by real minube users. Enjoy!
ICELAND
MINUBE TRAVEL GUIDE To travel, discover new places, live new experiences...these are what travellers crave, and it´s what they'll find at minube.
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What to see in Iceland
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Lakes
Jökulsárlón Lake
El Coleccionista De Instantes: This is the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon in Iceland. These photographs were taken during the tour "Spring and Northern Lights in Iceland" with the tour group Polar Lands Travel between March 27 - April 2, 2013. Ignacio Carmona Loeches: If at any point you thought that icebergs were random hunks of ice floating in the south Atlantic, well, you're mistaken. Lake Jökulsárlón in the south of Iceland is covered in thousands of the things, big and small. The forms they take are whimsical and really make your imagination spin, kind of like thinking about the clouds when you were young. There are all kinds of activities at the lake, but the best and most simple is to enjoy the view of the horizon in silence. It's a beautiful and almost spiritual thing. Also, the sunset is the best I've Jokursarlon ever seen and you can see Lago sea Jokullsarlong, lions flocking in the
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Cities
Page 2
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Manuelsdóttir: The Icelandic capital is a sprawling city, clean, with wonderful air, water, a very active cultural life, background landscapes and breathtaking views. It is ten minutes from the center, and a good climate and it is magical. A place to live, despite the dark hours of winter. The perfect place to get away from everything and yet it is all just around the corner. Lively in summer, is lit up, and it is romantic in the winter. If you want it all, go to Reykjavik. Orestes Gonzalez: The Blue Lagoon, just outside Reykjavik, is a large thermal pond that is frequented by locals and tourists alike. Its hot waters create the steam that envelopes the surroundings, creating an other worldly experience. ☎ 902 236 266 - Reikiavik, Reykjavik
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Gullfoss Falls
Enma: The famous golden waterfall of Iceland is one of the biggest tourist attractions in the region. It is in the Selfoss area which contains one of the other biggest attractions, the Geyser. These waterfall is on the route of the river Hvítá and drops 32 m. The most impressive view is of the canyon into which the water f a l l s . It is 70 meters deep and dizzying to contemplate.
Waterfalls
Skógafoss Waterfall
Jaume: The Skógafoss waterfall is on the south of the island. It is about 25 meters wide and about 60 meters high and is in the middle of a cliff near Skógar. This waterfall is very close to the parking area. Legend has it that a settler named Þrasi hid a treasure chest behind the waterfall which has still not been found. You can also climb some steps alongside the waterfall and see it from above. For half of the climb you can take a small path that allows you to reach a ledge from where you have great views of the waterfall. Also we can see a troll-shaped stone.
☎ 3 544 801 990 - Gullfoss, Selfoss
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Reykjavik
Waterfalls
Waterfalls
Jaume: The Godafoss waterfall (or waterfall of the Gods) is one of the most impressive waterfalls in Iceland. It is located in the north of the island, between the town of Akureyri and Lake Myvatn. If you park at the main parking lot, you will see a stunning view of the top of the waterfall. One story says that the chief Thorgeir was pagan and then he converted to Christianity. It has been said that after leaving his pagan roots in 1000 and converting to Christianity, he threw the wooden images of the pagan gods to the waterfall. Fred Horton: Godafoss was an amazing stop on the main highway. It is right between Akureyri and Lake Myvatn
Akureyri
Of Touristic Interest
Geysir
Enma: Seeing the great Geyser in Selfoss in Iceland is a unique experience. It is one of the most visited attractions in the country along with the Gullfoss waterfalls. To get to this area you pass warm water pools that can reach over 100 degrees and the water boils. When the famous geyser blows there are columns of hot air expelled and in some cases they reach 35 m. Do not leave the area without a swim in the heated pool, a unique experience.
Skogar, Islandia, Skógar
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Goðafoss Waterfall
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Waterfalls
Haukadalur, Selfoss
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Seljalandsfoss
Iban Riu Frigula: The Seljalandsfoss waterfall is in Iceland, in the southern part of the Nordic island. Very close to the black sand beaches and the famous Eyjafjallajökull glacier and volcano. It's really easy to find as it is on the right if you follow the Ring Road towards Reykjavik. For me it is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country, with an extreme beauty, you can take a path behind it to get a special perspective, and watch its fall, of about 60 meters. I eas really captivated and although there are other waterfalls with more flow, and fall ... I think it here where I spent more time in contemplation. I recommend visiting it on a summer afternoon, as the sun lights it up perfectly and you can photograph it as it deserves.
Southern Iceland , Selfoss
Of Cultural Interest
Þingvellir National Park
Jaume: From Reykjavik you can see the three most prominent landmarks of Iceland towards Pingvellir on Ring Road 1, north and then by 36. Pingvellir is was declared a UNESCO World Heritage in 2004 and it is one of the most popular tourist stops in Iceland. It is 50 km northeast of the capital on the banks of Pingvallavatn. There is a visitors center at the entrance with an exhibition about the place. There is also a viewpoint there with a panoramic view of the whole area and Lake Pingvallavatn. Pingvellir can be visited at any time since the access door is never locked. For this reason it is worth avoiding peak hours for buses with tourists (11 to 16). The interest of this place is also in its geology. In Pingvellir you can see the boundaries of the two major tectonic plates, the American and Eurasian, separating above sea level. These plates seperate at this point 1 mm annually. Parco nazionale Þingvellir, Hveragerði
What to see in Iceland
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Waterfalls
10
Dettifoss
Esteban Atilano : It's amazing to see the force with which the water rushes. My intention was take a photo with long exposure without anyone in the picture but it was inevitable. I tried to warn people but screeching didn't help with the strong flow of water next to me they couldn't hear me. Instead I took advantage of the human element to realize this photograph.
☎ 3 545 500 720 - Dettifoss Ctra. 864, Norðurþing, Islande, Dett…
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Page 3
Beaches
Sita Carapapel: This small village in southern Iceland has beautiful black sand beaches. Though you can't swim because the water is frozen, it's still nice to take a walk along the beach and then have a nice cup of Icelandic soup. I took this photo at Vik beach (Southern Iceland). Surrounded by high green mountains, there is a small church that surreal. It's a beautiful place that I recommend! Sara Martinez: In this image you can see the three petrified trolls of Vik beach.
Vík í Mýrdal, Islandia, Vík í Mýrdal
The Blue Lagoon
Pau García Solbes: The Blue Lagoon, or Bláa lónið in Icelandic, is 1 of the most touristy places, and the most rewarding. This is a huge pool filled with water that is of a distinctive color from volcanic springs. It is about 40 minutes from Reykjavik Keflavik and 15 from where we were staying. It was one of the 1st places we visited. Everything in the Blue Lagoon is incredible. The volcanic landscape of the Reykjanes Peninsula which took us to get there, to begin with. Then there are the columns of steam that rose from the Svartsengi power station, along the banks of the Blue Lagoon. Inside is all prepared for the comfort and well-being of the visitors. There are towels, bathrobes, dressing rooms, cafes, restaurants, stores ... Everything is controlled with a wrist-band you get when entering and serves as payment. The water is hot, but you soon get accustomed to it, and the air ☎ 3 544 - 240 Grindavík, Grindavik temperature is about 15208 º. 800 Besides fun, the Blue
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Vik Beach
Spa
Nature Reserves
Glacier Vatnajökull
Jaume: The Skaftafell National Park (http://www.Vatnajokulsthjodgardur.Is/) is the largest in Iceland and Europe. The park, equivalent to over 12% of the country, is Iceland's most important conservation project. The main entrance is in Skaftafell, along the Vatnajökull glacier. You have to deviate about five kilometres from the Ring Road to reach the visitor centre with a small cafe, a park with picnic tables and a camping area. The Vatnajökull glacier is the largest in Iceland and one of the largest in Europe. It has an area of 8,100 square kilometres, and is 1,000 meters thick at its thickest point. Under this vast sheet of ice, there are several volcanoes. The Guinness World Records has declared Vatnajökull as the place with the most visibility. From here, you can see Slættaratindur, the highest mountain on the Faroe Islands standing 550 kilometres away. We Islandia, walked on this glacier all morning. You can Jokursarlon book an
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Lakes
Waterfalls
Myvatn Lake
Svartifoss Waterfall
joaquim cubarsi: In Lake Myvatn I managed to take some wonderful pictures during sunset. Unfortunately, I somehow managed to delete these from my camera, so I was very upset to find I don't have any pictures from this trip. The lake is beautiful, although, as its name suggests, the clouds of flies that surround it in summer can be quite overwhelming.
El Coleccionista De Instantes: This is the Svartif Waterfalll, or the Black Waterfall. These photographs w taken during the tour "Spring and Northern Lights in Icela with the Polar Lands Travel tour group from 27 March April 2013. Http://www.Vatnajokulsthjodgardur.Is/ Skafta National Park Photos: Icela http://www.elcoleccionistadeinstantes.com/ My B http://primaverayaurorasborealesenislandia.blogspot.com
Myvatn, Reykjahlíð
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Churches
Hallgrímskirkja
Enma: This interesting church of Iceland's capital is undoubtedly the tallest building in town, calling attention as it is visible from anywhere, even kilometers away from the city. its style is modern and "strange" as everything has its detractors but what is for sure, whether beautiful or not, is that from the tower you can see the best view of the city, and for that alone it is worth seeing.
☎ 3 545 101 000 - Skólavörðuholti pósthólf 651, Reykjavik
Svartifoss, Jokursarlon
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Unusual Places
Seltun Geothermal Area
Jaume: In the south of Reykjanes the geothermal area comes to the surface through the crack in the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, which traverses Iceland diagonally from the southwest to the northeast of Iceland. Passing the lake Kleifarvatn we can discover the Seltun Geothermal Area, which is of high geothermal activity located south of the Reykjanes Peninsula (Iceland). An area full of solfataras, fumaroles, boiling mud pools and sulfur smell. This area is the most active in Iceland right now.
Seltún, Grindavik
What to see in Iceland
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Cities
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Akureyri
Jaume: Akureyri is the regional capital of northern Iceland and is located at the bottom of the fjord Eyjafjördur. It's only 100 km south of the Arctic Circle. It is surrounded by mountains, most of them Súlur 1,213 meters above sea level, and Hlíðarfjall at 1,116 meters above sea level. The city is small and industrial. It is a historically important spot because it hosted the allied air forces during the Second World War. The old part is called "Innbaer" and is full of shops. The red stoplights in the city are shaped like hearts. It is quite an interesting feature. Fred Horton: Akureyri was a smaller Reykjavik, had a very nice feeling and had some nice restaurants. I recommend stopping in or staying, on the way to Lake Myvatn! Akureyri , Akureyri
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Page 4
Cliffs
Hvitserkur
Jaume: Hvítserkur in northern Iceland, a curious geological formation formed by volcanic magma a few thousand years ago and then shaped by the wind. Legend has it that this rock is a troll paralyzed by the rays of the rising sun as he tried to destroy the Christian monastery of Thingeyrar. It is located in front of the sea in Húnaflói Bay on the Vatnsnes peninsula. Hvítserkur means "white shirt" and that name is due to the large amounts of bird droppings on the rocks. Access is from the parking area, walk down a trail to a viewpoint. Here is the starts of a small path that allows you to go down to the beach. At low tide you can get to the same base. Hvítserkur is one of the more accessible places to observe Iceland seals. However, we had no luck and didn't see any. Of course, there are lots of seabirds.
Historical Monuments
Husavik
Suspension Bridge of Selfoss
☎ 3 544 142 800 - Hafnarstett 1, Husavik 640 , Islandia, Húsavík
Volcanoes
Jaume: After visiting Gullfoss, you head towards the south to Selfoss. In the Grimsnes area, 4 kilometres from highway 35 and 36 crossroad, just off to the side is the Kerid crater. Over time, this crater has been filled with rain water. It's 200 meters in diameter and 50 meters deep with red lava and ash walls. You can reach the lake and walk around it.
Hiking
Landmanalaugar
aratingas: Iceland is one of the most amazing countries! The scenery is stunning, 100% nature that's virtually uninhabited and surprisingly beautiful. It's hard to find something similar in any other part of the world. The route between Landmanalaugar and Posmork is undoubtedly the most spectacular I've ever seen. From volcanic landscapes, you can practically see the daily changes from the area's large amount of volcanic activity. The route takes between 3 and 4 days, and just this road makes travelling here worth it. But if that's not enough, the country offers much more. You have to visit!
Kerið, Selfoss, Islande, Selfoss
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Jaume: Selfoss is a town situated in the southern area of Iceland, on the banks of the River Ölfusá. In 1891 they built it, it was the first suspension bridge over the River Ölfusá. The bridge made the city a logistical center for the region. During World War II British troops settled in Selfoss to protect the strategic bridge. The current bridge was built in 1945 after the original structure collapsed.
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Kerid Crater
Road 711 | Eastern Side of Vatsnes Peninsula, Blonduos 531, Island…
Villages
Jaume: Husavik is on the north coast of Iceland, and is a fishing village right at the border of the Skjálfandi Bay. Husavik is frequently referred to as the capital of whales, as whale watching excursions generally end in success. If you want to see a whale, come here! In Húsavík boat trips can be whale watching in the Bay Skjálfandi where they have 98% success to see whales and dolphins. The coast of Husavik, colonized by the Vikings, was the oldest settlement in Iceland. Along the road is the church of Husavik, the Húsavíkurkirkja, a wooden building imported from Norway in 1907. It is open to visitors during summer.
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Hiking
Landmannalaugar
Jordi Farre Sanfeliu: To say that Iceland is one of the most beautiful places in the world ... is the truth. To say that Iceland is one of the world's purest tourist places ... is also true ... To also say that the interior of Island shows a unique place....Is also the truth...this incomparably beautiful place is called landmannalaugar a place where volcanic activity is evident at every turn ... tiptoe through hell ...
Bakkafjörður
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Spa
Myvatn Nature Baths
Amelia Micas: I do not think justice is done comparing it to the Blue Lagoon, which for me was a big disappointment after having gone through the Myvatn. It's smaller yes, but much more cozy and natural. It gives you the opportunity to mix with the locals ve go there to have a few beers or to bathe. It's a great experience only overshadowed by the other baths, but much more authentic and special.
Jaume: Selfoss is a town situated in the southern area of Iceland, on the banks of the River Ölfusá. In 1891 they built it, it was the first suspension bridge over the River Ölfusá. The bridge made the city a logistical center for the region. During World War II British troops settled in Selfoss to protect the strategic bridge. The current bridge was built in 1945 after the original structure collapsed. Selfoss
Landmannalaugar, Reykjavik
☎ 3 544 644 411 - Jarðböðin við Mývatn | Jarðbaðshólar | 660 Mýv…
What to see in Iceland
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Volcanoes
Page 5
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Hverfell Volcano
Jaume: Volcano Hverfell is located in northern Iceland near Lake Myvatn and southwest of Dimmu Borgir. This volcano that measures 430 meters high has a giant crater that measures 1 km in diameter. The Hverfell was formed 2,500 years ago and from the top you see the whole lake and the so-called pseudo craters. You can go by car to the base of the volcano and then climb to the top which takes about 15 minutes. You can also take a walk around the volcanic cone. The view of Lake Mývatn is spectacular from here.
Cliffs
Dyrholaey
Iban Riu Frigula: Dyrhólaey is a small peninsula in the south of Iceland, near the town of Vik í Myrdal. It's home to many birds that live on the island, among which are the famous Puffins! What surprised me most about this place was its long black sand beaches, the volcanic rock formations and the Puffins. When I went there I didn't expect to find them and hadn't seen any on the island. It's an easy place to find, but not so much to get to, because the access road that leads to the cliffs isn't paved. Once we got there we spotted a bird from an elevated view of the area and we took a look at Myrdalsjokull glacier. It's right behind Dyrhólaey and you can see it on days with good visibility.
Akureyri
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Waterfalls
Cascades of the Fjord
IvanMF: Seydisfjordur Fjord is one of the most beautiful of east Iceland. Apart from the picturesque town and the fjord itself, it should be noted that there are natural wonders on the road from Egilsstadir, capital of the area, and Seydisfjordur. As you go down to the fjord, you will see more and more waterfalls, and each one more and more impressive. Some appear to be lost in the caves, and others fall down from quite a height. Some can be accessed by visitors, and others cannot be. That is common in Iceland since the grounds are very delimited by fences, and many of the waterfalls, not the most important, are on private land and not accessible. But I assure you that on this road, you will not care that there are waterfalls pa bore to Christ! :)
Seyðisfjörður
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Volcanoes
Viti Volcano
Jaume: You can find the volcano called Viti in the north of Iceland next to Lake Mývatn. It is a cone of the first to be formed by Krafla volcanic geological activity. The meaning of Viti is hell in Icelandic. To get there, you must cross the Krafla geothermal plant. This volcano is north of the geothermal area of Namaskard. The interior of the crater is filled with rainwater, since the earth is very clayey and therefore prevents filtering.
Vik, Islandia, Vík í Mýrdal
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Waterfalls
Stykkishólmur Church
Glymur Waterfall
Stykkishólmur
Churches
Black Church of Búdir
Jaume: On the other side of the Snæfellsnes peninsula (west of Iceland), we stopped at Búðir (Búðir). Búðir is located on the southern coast of Snæfell. It was Jules Verne's starting point to begin the journey to the center of the Earth in his book. The town's famous black church (Búðakirkja) is considered a national treasure. It was built by Bent Lárusson in 1703. In 1984, the entire building was moved to its present location. It is interesting to note that the church is located next to a large field of lava.
Akureyri
Churches
Jaume: Stykkishólmur is a fishing town in western Iceland, north of the Snæfellsnes peninsula. This town has a peculiar church. It was completed in 1990 and its creator was the Finnish architect Jon Haraldsson. Inside the church, there are many lights hanging from the ceiling. On the altar, there's a painting of the Virgin Mary and Jesus together.
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Jaume: The Glymur Waterfall is in the west of Iceland n the Hvalfjördur Fjord. It is one of the highest waterfalls in Europe with a drop of 196 metres. It is only accessible on foot after a 2 hour excursion. To get there we headed to Akranes taking the Road 47 that runs along the fjord. We had to take the path that is at the mouth of the River Botnsa. This will take you to a parking area where the trail begins to Glymur. The first section is relatively flat. You have to cross the river crossing by a log with a tensioned cable in parallel. Before you had to go down through a cave. The most difficult part begins after crossing the river because the difference in level is very high. Here watch out for the air currents, they are usually quite strong. For the more daring, I would say that we continued upstream until we found a place to cross. We took our shoes off, We crossed the river and went back to the parking area on the other side of Akranes the
Borgarnes
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Volcanoes
Snæfells Glacier
Jaume: We went to Ólafsvík and were told not to take any excursions to Snæfellsjökull Snæfells Glacier, which is located on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula (west of Iceland). This glacier is where the story of "Journey to the Center of the Earth" by Jules Verne, was set. The only way to see the glacier is to cross the peninsula from north to south along the mountain track that leads to Arnarstapi Ólafsvík 570. This is the route that is the closest to the glacier and the experience is quite impressive.
Snæfells, Ólafsvík
What to see in Iceland
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Cities
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Keflavík
Pau García Solbes: Our first contact with Iceland was the city of Keflavik. In a few minutes, we realized just what we would come to expect from our trip through this country. It is a very peaceful country, very kid-friendly, weather that changes constantly, and of course, a landscape very different from what we know in Spain, full of surprises. In fact, just upon exiting the airport, we were greeted with a lovely Icelandic double rainbow. The ride from the airport to the city of Keflavik is only about ten minutes. The sky was leaden and occasionally discharged a burst of rain. The proximity to the North Sea made the city endowed in a semi-constant icy wind that made it feel very wintry and even a bit spooky at times. However, it seemed that the city was reluctant to a gray environment. We toured the city and saw many houses with quirky colors. It is the way the Icelandic Keflavík, Keflavík people combat the monotony of adverse weather.
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Page 6
Waterfalls
Waterfall Selfoss
Jaume: We decided to visit the waterfalls Dettifoss and Selfoss. They are known as the waterfalls of ice kingdom of constant melt and they are nurtured by the Vatnajökull glacier. Dettifoss and Selfoss are located nearby. Selfoss is barely 1 km south of Dettifoss. As we were passing by, we saw a beautiful rock formation. Selfoss drop is 11 m and is wider than Detifoss.
Volcanoes
Churches
Turba de Hof I Church
Eyjafjallajokull, Reykjavik
Viewpoint of the Perlan Building
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Waterfalls
Fagrifoss
IvanMF: Fagrifoss means beautiful waterfall in Icelandic, and the name isn't a bad match. To get there we must leave Kirkjubaerjarklaustur Laki direction along the track for 4X4, after traveling 20 kilometers we arrive at the waterfall's parking. From the parking it is an easy climb of about five minutes which leads to the view of the impressive waterfall. The view is amazing and you can only hear the roar of the water. Be careful with the land of the cliff that melts away easily and you can go "down" if you're clueless.
☎ 3 545 620 200 - Oskjuhlio Hill, Reikiavik, Islandia, Reykjavik
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Jaume: Iceland is full of peat churches, most the XIX century, very well maintained, and well worth a visit. In Hof I visited one of these churches, and it was in very good condition. The peat church of Hof I was built in 1884 and was the last peat churches built in the "old style". It was built by carpenter Páisson Pali. It is one of six churches of its kind and is considered as one of their historical monuments. Today, it is still used.
Viewpoints
Manuelsdóttir: The Perlan Building (The Pearl), is built on top of natural hot water deposits and is located on the Öskuhlíð Hill in Reykjavik. On the bottom there are several exhibition halls and a museum and upstairs in the dome, a restaurant. Outside the dome and surrounding it entirely is the best viewpoint of Reykjavik. The place itself is worthwhile visiting, but the views from the balcony are spectacular, especially if you are lucky enough to go there on a clear day. The first thing we did the day after arriving in the city was to go up there at noon, on the longest day of the year (June 21). The sun was ,at its highest in the south and the whole city is at your feet, with the mountains, the Bay ofFaxaflói ...
Húsavík
Basar Route, Eyjafjallajokull
Germán Bertrand Baschwitz: If you are going to Iceland during the winter you definitely need a good SUV (and someone who knows how to handle it). We visited the volcano through what remained of the valley where the flood that caused the melting of the glacier happened. The road came to an end, and the valley's natural terrain pointed the way to Basar, but barely. It was our first experience of extreme terrain. We were scared, crossing rivers that appeared and disappeared in hours and testing the new land on which the glacier had been settled for a gazillion years. Here you can see some interesting photos, including my favourite ... Iceland is a destination for the amateur photographer.
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Hiking
Fagrifoss, Kirkjubæjarklaustur
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Jökulsárlón
Carlos Solinis: Jokulsarlon Lagoon is a beautiful place. It's a lagoon in which you'll find pieces of ice that have detached from glaciers. The lake has an outlet to the sea and depending on the tide, this ice flows in and out. There's also sealife such as seals, a highly recommended visit as well as being beautiful by day and night thanks to the numerous Northern Lights that occur between October and March.
Hiking
Laugavegur
Mufastor: Thanks describing the indescribable. Four incredible and impossible to imagine days, that you can only live and feel. From fire and ice passing through all the varieties of the inhospitable. From the heat of the refuges to the cold of the solitude of nature. The sensation of not being able to stop for a rest before advancing to the necessity of stopping yourself to record in your memory every milometer of the landscape. It was marvelous.
BillBoswell: Spent several hours photographing the icebergs washed back up on the black sand beach.
Hveragerði
Jokulsarlon, Reykholt
Fjallabaksleið Syðri, Islande, Laugar
What to see in Iceland
37
Historical Monuments
The Law Rock in Pingvellir
Jaume: Pingvellir is one of the most important natural and historical sights to be seen in Iceland. In Spanish, its name is translated as "parliament plains". This is because it was in this place that Alpingi was founded in the year 930. It is one of the oldest parliamentary institutions in the world. Right in the center of Thingvellir is "law rock", where the Althing used to meet.
Page 7
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Lakes
Canyons
Canyons
Alftavant Lake
Kolugljúfur Canyon
Peningagja Canyon
Jaume: We spent the night in Daeli in Vididalur. In the guest book in the cabin we found a comment that recommended we visit Kolugljúfur the canyon, which is near the place we were. So we decided to visit it. It's in northeast Iceland and is named after a famous Icelandic control called Kola. The area is full of waterfalls that are called Kolufossar.
Jaume: It is worth taking your time to visit Pingvellir. There are lots of places to see. One of them is the barrel Peningagjá or pennies well. It is filled with fresh water. Legend has it that whoever manages to throw a coin in and see how it touches the bottom of the well will have their wishes fulfilled.
amarcos: This is considered to be one of the world's most stunning landscapes. And it's totally true. The landscapes, the textures, the colours, the colour of the sunset and green hills contrasting with the intense black volcanic earth and mixtures of colours from inside the earth as it convulses ... the strength of pure nature. This is a place where you really feel that nature is alive. This trek was taken with Polar Lands. Http :/ / www.Tierraspolares.Es
Laugarvatn
Alftavant, Laugar
Blonduos
Of Touristic Interest
Bays
Historical Monuments
Staupasteinn
Whale Fjord
Jaume: Staupasteinn, the wine glass, is an isolated rock on the southern slope of Skeidhóli. It is known by various names: Prestur (the priest), Stedji (anvil), í Karlinn Skeidhóli (Skeidhóli man) but most people know it with the name of the wine glass. The rock and the surrounding area were named a national monument in 1974. To get to Akranes we headed down highway 47 that goes around the fjord called Hvalfjördur. To find it, leave the road. The detour is clearly marked.
Jaume: The fjord Hvalfjörður or Hvalf (Whale fjord) is situated in the west of Iceland between the towns of Mosfellsbær and Akranes. Its name comes from the large number of whales that once were seen from the fjord until the mid-twentieth century. To get to Akranes you must take Highway 47 which skirts the fjord Hvalfjördur.
Strange Mounds of Stone near Pingvallavatn Lake
Akranes
Akranes
Laugarvatn
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Jaume: In Reykjavik, the complete tour of the three most famous places in Iceland starts in the capital (Thingvellir) then continues towards the Ring Road 1 north, and then take the 36. The first thing we came across was Pingvallavatn, the largest lake in the entire country (84 km2). It is situated in the valley of Thingvellir. It is relatively close to Reykjavik. Near this lake there is a large open area with many stone mounds (cairns). In modern times, the cairns have emerged as benchmarks. In antiquity they were erected as sepulchral monuments, or used for astronomical reasons.
Laugarvatn
Viewpoints
Viewpoint Sjónarnípa
Jaume: Skaftafell National Park (http://www.Vatnajokulsthjodgardur.Is/) is the largest in Iceland and Europe. Very near Svartifoss waterfall there is a detour taking you to Sjónarnípa viewpoint. The walk is worth it as from here you can enjoy spectacular views of Skaftafellsjökull glacier and the sand desert.
Bakkafjörður
What to see in Iceland
40
Gardens
Page 8
41
Akureyri Botanical Garden
Jaume: Akureyri is the regional capital of northern Iceland and is located at the bottom of the fjord Eyjafjördur. It's so only 100 km south of the Arctic Circle. It is surrounded by mountains, most of them Súlur 1,213 meters above sea level, and Hlíðarfjall at 1,116 meters above sea level. It is a small and industrial city. The city hosted the allied air forces during the Second World War. Akureyri has a botanical garden and is located at a miraculous latitude because it is almost petting the Arctic Circle. It is 3.6 hectares. Native species of Iceland as well as other parts of the world live here. The incredible array of species is due to its microclimate which allows for unusual growth of trees and plants. This botanical garden has two entrances, one is near the hotel parking Edda Akureyri.
Caves
The Hljódaklettar Kirkjan
Jaume: Hljódaklettar is a set of volcanic formations from around 8,000 years ago. It is located 8 km south of the mouth of the canyon Jökulsárgljúfur, Jökulsárgljúfur National Park. This park is located in the northern belt of Iceland. Many lava formations here help to highlight the Kirkjan (the church), also formed by basalt columns.
Akureyri
43
Of Cultural Interest
The Bravery of the Sea
Miguel Santos Garcia: I went to Iceland in the month of September without knowing what I'd find in a country that is know only for a volcano that expels ash from time to time. And the wonderful thing was that after a few kilometres you find yourself by the sea with this man in the photo (my father) that adds a curious touch and yet gives a sense of what can be. Being there was one of the best moments with my camera and I enjoyed it like a dwarf.
Ólafsvík, Westland, Iceland, Ólafsvík
Húsavík
44
Nature Reserves
Sjavarpakkhusid
petaqui: There is little to say, the taste of the dishes spoke volumes. The restaurant was quiet and modest, with only 4 option, but what food! The seafood soup was the best I've ever tried. The mussels came on a huge plate. The pasta with seafood was also huge, and really good. As for the typical fish, I don't know which type it was, but typical of the area. The prices were cheap for what is customary in the area.
☎ 4 381 800 - Hafnargata 2a, Stykkisholmur, Islandia, Stykkishó…
42
Lakes
Lakes
Askja Crater
Úlfljótsvatn Lake
IvanMF: The Askja caldera is one of the most amazing places I have visited. Getting there is not easy. You take the turnoff from Highway 1, and you will see asign appears next to the gas station at 280 km. The track is in bad condition, and it is 110 km of this road to get to Askja. An SUV is mandatory, because you must wade rivers. Bu it is worth the car. Once we arrived at the parking we had to walk 2,5 km on a desert landscape, which seems to go back to the days of black and white on TV, are the only colors around the way. The white snow and black ash. But at the boiler you have to rub your eyes, your senses seem to be fooled. Something strange in front of you. Yes, well, a steaming cauldron of green inside the crater of a volcano, but behind the deepest lake in Iceland mountains reflecting in symmetry and perfect clarity. It seems that the view fool you. In this place Altas, was Askja you realize the power of nature. Askja, The Tierras Viti crater
45
Fjords
Manuelsdóttir: The lake is south of the most famous and biggest (Þingvallavatn). This one has something that makes it equally interesting. There's the scenery, fishing, views... but most of all the redroofed white church (Úlfljótsvatnkirkja), in the usual Iceland style. Here, from the height of the road, and with the depth of the lake and the colours changing according to the weather and seasons, you have something you makes you want to return again and again. I would live in Iceland just to be close enough to this place to go when I felt like it. :)
Selfoss
46
Fjords of East
lorena gonzalez huertas: We were looking for Frairecillos along the east coast of Iceland. They told us that they would be here, around about this time. After seeing the northern lights at night, we wanted to see them. While looking for them, we found this ....... Iceland in April this is solitary and quiet .... I love it!!!!!!!
Seyðisfjörður, Seyðisfjörður
Unusual Places
Drying Fish
Pau García Solbes: In Iceland there do strange things that are not exactly pleasant, as is the case of the traditional fish drying of the Reykjanes Peninsula. It was completely empty, there was not a soul about. And the truth is that I'm not surprised by the plague that was caused by the dried fish. The fish dryer is built with large wooden sticks on the volcanic sand and the fish are left to hang, drying in the sun. The one we visited is quite a way from the cities and there wasn't another living thing to be seen. Despite the foul smell it is an intriguing place to see, as they still follow the same ancient techniques from times gone by. It is also a good place to take pictures, although a touch macabre. Before returning to Spain as a souvenir we brought a bag of the dried fish. It is still lingering in our fridge waiting for somebody to pluck up the courage... Secadero de Pescado, Grindavik
What to see in Iceland
47
Churches
Page 9
48
Church of Akureyri
Jaume: Akureyri is the regional capital of northern Iceland and is at the bottom of the Eyjafjördur fjord. It's 100 km south of the Arctic Circle. It is surrounded by mountains, the biggest named Súlur is 1,213 meters above sea level, and Hlíðarfjall is 1,116 meters above sea level. It's a small industrial center. The city hosted the allied air forces during WWII. We visited a strange Akureyri church. It is located on top of a hill and is the symbol of the city. There are great panoramic views of Eyjafjördur Fjord from there.
Volcanoes
Hekla Volcano
Jordi Farre Sanfeliu: One of the most active volcanoes in the world, where you can climb and explore its slopes (early eruptions permitting!). The weather conditions are particularly difficult here due to strong winds blowing in the area. One major characteristic of Iceland is its changing climate; if you do not like the weather just wait a few minutes for a change ...
Eyrarlandsvegur , Akureyri
49
Hiking
Hekla, Reykholt
50
Kirkjuffell
Jaume: Along the trail through the Snæfellsnes peninsula, west of Iceland, towards the Snæfells Glacier area, we passed Kirkjuffell. It is a volcanic mountain in Grundarfjörður in line with the sea. It is easy to see why this mountain is called Kirkjufell, the Mountain Church, as it it looks like a church roof. It is 463 m high. Note that Danish sailors call the mountain "Sugar Top". Fred Horton: Seeing this amazing piece of nature while staying in the small town of Grundarfjörður was amazing, and especially at 11 at night!
Grundarfjörður
Valleys
Iceland Landscape
Things to see in Iceland
JOSE CENJOR MARTIN: We have been driving all through the day. The beauty of the journey does permit our eyes, which are increasingly filled with more places, remember. We make notes of the details we see so we do not forget the essence of a country that was our first dream, and perhaps the last together. Iceland closes one stage and my challenge as a photographer is to capture the beauty of this unique place, to lock in my pictures some of those memories I do not want to be swollowed by oblivion.
Reykjavik
1. Jökulsárlón Lake 4. Geysir 7. Seljalandsfoss 10. The Blue Lagoon 13. Glacier Vatnajökull 16. Akureyri 19. Landmanalaugar 22. Myvatn Nature Baths 25. Viti Volcano 28. Stykkishólmur Church 31. Waterfall Selfoss 34. Basar Route, Eyjafjallajokull 37. The Law Rock in Pingvellir 40. Akureyri Botanical Garden 43. The Bravery of the Sea 46. Drying Fish 49. Kirkjuffell
2. Gullfoss Falls 5. Reykjavik 8. Þingvellir National Park 11. Myvatn Lake 14. Hallgrímskirkja 17. Hvitserkur 20. Husavik 23. Hverfell Volcano 26. Black Church of Búdir 29. Snæfells Glacier 32. Viewpoint of the Perlan Building 35. Jökulsárlón 38. Alftavant Lake 41. The Hljódaklettar Kirkjan 44. Sjavarpakkhusid 47. Church of Akureyri 50. Iceland Landscape
3. Skógafoss Waterfall 6. Goðafoss Waterfall 9. Dettifoss 12. Vik Beach 15. Seltun Geothermal Area 18. Kerid Crater 21. Landmannalaugar 24. Dyrholaey 27. Cascades of the Fjord 30. Keflavík 33. Fagrifoss 36. Laugavegur 39. Viewpoint Sjónarnípa 42. Askja Crater 45. Fjords of East 48. Hekla Volcano
Where to eat in Iceland
1
Cafés
Cafe Babalu
Jorge Montero Tapia: Babalu was the first place that we stopped at to enjoy a bite to eat and a drink during the first few hours of our visit to the capital of Iceland. The cafe is situated on one of the main streets of Reykjavík, called Skólavörðustígur. It has a rather striking facade with an orange front and on the side you can see graffiti. The narrow entrance gives way to a steep wooden staircase that leads to the second floor where the cafe is. You should go to the bar to order, do not go straight to sit at the table and wait for them to come and assist you. The best thing about this place is its terrace, on our visit we enjoyed a great afternoon sun (it was mid-June) and from there we had a great view of the street and the Hallgrímskirkja.
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Restaurants
Saegreifinn Restaurant
Ele Baños: It took about 5 laps around the block to find the place but once inside, it was worth the ride. It is a rustic restaurant located in Reykjavik's harbor area and, at first, it was a fish shop. Now, you can buy fish at the front and eat in the rear area of the building. The place is very small (it also has a small terrace but the weather in Iceland is often not warm enough) with 3 or 4 long wooden tables. It is advisable to choose your fish from the fridge (they also have whale) and they will prepare it for you. In addition to the sea-fresh fish, they make a delicious lobster soup which has become famous ... and no wonder! The food is good, the prices are excellent but above all, I recommend a visit to Saegreifinn for how well it reflects the Icelandic spirit (it is full of locals as well as tourists).
☎ 3 545 522 278 - Skolavoroustigur 22a | 101 Reykjavik, Reikiavi…
☎ 3 545 531 500 - Sægreifinn, Tryggvagata, Reykjavik
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Restaurants
Rauða Húsið Restaurant
Manuelsdóttir: Mostly seafood cuisine, taking traditional elements and mixing with contemporary styles the result of which are some delight treats. Recommendations of what you have to try - the salads, creams, lobster dishes and desserts. Wonderful. And the place is worth it with the damn, the houses and the Ölfusá estuary making it a very beautiful place.
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Restaurants
Seafood Cellar Restaurant
Ele Baños: In Iceland there are few chances to enjoy a good restaurant and most of them are in the capital. In Reykjavik you can find the Seafood Cellar, a restaurant that fuses Asian food and Icelandic dishes. It relies on seafood, prepared in a natural way with the purpose of enhancing its flavor. The tasting menu, expensive, is worth it and allows you to take a culinary itinerary by both countries. The food presentation is amazing and the restaurant atmosphere very-very nice. What might seem scary is the fact that it is just below the tourist information office but it is not at all a tourist restaurant. Two recommendations: It is advisable to book and not go with just money (although there will always be credit cards) :)
☎ 3 544 833 330 - Budarstig 4, Eyrarbakki 820, Islandia, Eyrarb…
Aðalstræti 2, Reykjavik
Places to eat in Iceland Restaurants
Humarhofnin Ele Baños: I think with this restaurant I have no decent dining experiences to review in Iceland. This is an incredible country but as far as food is concerned they do not have much to offer .We were in Höfn and after a few days where we could eat or buy something in supermarkets and gas stations we wanted to try something different. In this town we found many restaurants and asked for a recommendation. We ended up in this place, cold-looking but pleasant, not knowing what we would find. Once inside we were told that Höfn was advertised as "the capital of North Locust". Lobsters were excellent, the price was really good and the hours we were there were very funny. And, in Iceland, we must seize every opportunity to sample the fine cuisine presented to you throughout the trip as you never know how many gas station dinners await you in the rest of the route. ☎ 003 544 781 200 - Hafnarbraut 4 | 780 Hornafirði, Hofn, Islandi…
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Restaurants
Icelandair Hotel Klaustur’s Restaurant
Pau García Solbes: I will tell you about a lovely meal in the town of Kirkjubaejarklaustur. This town was our base for exploring Southern Iceland. We stayed for 2 nights at the Icelandair Hotel Klaustur. The 1st night we decided to eat in the hotel restaurant, which had a good reputation, and it was the most expensive of the trip. To start , we ordered an appetizer of goose that they gave us half the macerated and half smoked. It was accompanied with a sundried tomato sauce, which is very typical of Iceland, and cranberry sauce. Next, I ordered a Arctic char was delicious and whose garrison were boiled potatoes, shallots, sautéed vegetables and a sauce of pumpkin. Vero ordered a white fish, accompanied by a puree, sundried tomato sauce and sautéed vegetables. For dessert we had a chocolate brownie on 3a544 ☎ bed 874 of900 blueberries - Klausturvegur and6,vanilla Kirkjubaejarklaustur ice cream. 880, I think Islan…
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Restaurants
Pizzería Eldsmiðjan
Jorge Montero Tapia: This pizzeria is situated close to the Church (Hallgrimskirkja). It is a 3-storey building on the corner. It serves pizzas of various sizes (25, 30 and 40 cms.)for reasonable prices, usually between 10 to 12 € per pizza. If you order a drink, you pay a certain amount and you can get a free refill from the machine. The pizzas are very good, and the opening hours (open between 11 and 23 hours) and its location make it an ideal place to stop for a bite to eat and still see the city.
☎ 3 545 623 838 - Bragagata, 101 , Reykjavik
1. Cafe Babalu 2. Saegreifinn Restaurant 3. Rauða Húsið Restaurant 4. Seafood Cellar Restaurant 5. Icelandair Hotel Klaustur’s... 6. Pizzería Eldsmiðjan
Where to stay in Iceland
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Campsites
Page 11
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Vesturdalur
Jaume: The Vesturdalur Valley is in the Vatnajokull National Park, in the northern belt of Iceland, in one of the country's most active volcanos. It has the most incredible canyons of the island. It is a zone with a lot of biodiversity, with over 230 recorded plant species. From the Park entrance to the camping area, it is around 12 km. The route is amazing and runs through canyons and zones as sobrecogerdoras and Hljóðaklettar ("Eco Rocks" in Icelandic). The camping area has toilets and food area. We come up to the visitor center to pay for the stay. In return they give you a sticker that you put in the store. Install the store along a creek. It rained all day and, interestingly stopped when we started to build the tent. At first we were alone but in the end, most hikers were there. There were 4 shops. ☎ 3 544 652 195 - 671 Kópasker, Húsavík
Hotels
Hotels
Hotels
Alex Guesthouse
Guesthouse Steig
Cabañas en Dæli en Víðidalur
Jorge Montero Tapia: We chose this hotel for its proximity to the airport and because they had a free 24-hour shuttle. We decided to get picked up from the airport, as we got to Iceland at 4am (although it was full daylight). Once we collected our bags and went to the hall of the terminal we phoned the hotel. In 5-10 minutes a nice young man came to pick us up. A few minutes later (the hotel is really close to the airport, about 3km.) we arrived at the hotel. We checked-in and proceeded to the room. The right room: two single beds, a sink, table, chairs and a hanger. The bathroom is shared but is clean. After sleeping a few hours we went to breakfast. The dining room is spacious. Breakfast is self-service and it offers coffee machine, milk, yogurt, toast, but it was just right. Finally, I should also say that we were taken back to the airport for free. A room for two people with ☎ 3cost 544 212 800 - Adalgata 60, Keflavík breakfast, in early June, us €71.
Campsites
Youth Hostels
Campsite Area North of Lake Pingvallavatn
En Húsey Lodging
Jaume: After visiting Thingvellir we decided to go to the campground where we spent the night. It is north of Lake Pingvallavatn, the biggest lake in Iceland (84 km2) close to Thingvellir. It is easy to find and the visitor center is next to the road. We stayed near the building or down to the lake shore. In the 1st case we have more services available, whereas if we choose the lake area, there is no electricity and only 2 toilets and a place to make food. We chose the 2nd option and went to the lakeside store Pingvallavatn.
Jorge Montero Tapia: Steig Guesthouse is popular for its family and almost rural atmosphere. Next to a farm, it is just one single storey building, with very few rooms (15 to 20). To get there, pay attention to the signs on Highway 1, where a small sign(1 km. approximately)leads you there. There is a parking área just outside the building. We received good customer care, they were very kind to us. The room was plain but very clean. We had a room with ensuite bathroom and breakfast was included. In the evening we used a well-equipped communal kitchen. The buffet-style breakfast was varied but there were small amounts of each thing, they were slow to refill. WIFI was available in the rooms. It is located in an ideal place if you visit the Cliffs of Dyrhólaey and a little further to the east lies Vik. The cost per room for two people with breakast included was 85euros in June 2012 ☎ 3 544 871 324 - Steig, Vik 871, Islandia, Vík í Mýrdal
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Eduard Buzzi: After dinner on a clear night with a full moon, a mist suddenly appeared and gave the landscape a different view. The small lake was completely enveloped by the mist and the small barn became a mysterious image with horses in the background, blurred by the mist. It all seemed like an Impressionist painting.
Jaume: During our trip to Iceland we stayed overnight in a hut in Dæli in Víðidalur located in the northeastern part of the island. They are very well equipped and breakfast is included. As you can see in the photos we made the most of the facilities to dry our tent and socks which were all wet after our adventure around Ásbyrgi.
☎ 3 544 512 566 - Dæli en Víðidalur, Blonduos
Hotels
Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik Natura
Alicia Ortego: The company Icelandair hotel is situated just outside the Icelandic city of Reykjavik. This is the only downside, but there is a bus stop right outside the hotel. On the other hand, it is a modern, pleasant place, offering great service and a good kitchen ... The breakfast buffet is delicious and very complete! Of course, there is a spa available to guests. I say "of course" because in Iceland this is normal. The sunsets from here are excellent, with the characteristic Hallgrimur Reykjavik church, emphasizing on the horizon. It is also a good place to enjoy the nights of northern lights, if there is enough darkness and with a little luck, of course :) Places to stay in Iceland
Laugarvatn
Húsey, Húsavík
☎ 3 544 444 500 - Nauthólsvegur 52, Reykjavik
1. Vesturdalur 2. Alex Guesthouse 3. Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik...
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What to see in Iceland
1
Lakes
Jökulsárlón Lake
El Coleccionista De Instantes: This is the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon in Iceland. These photographs were taken during the tour "Spring and Northern Lights in Iceland" with the tour group Polar Lands Travel between March 27 - April 2, 2013. Ignacio Carmona Loeches: If at any point you thought that icebergs were random hunks of ice floating in the south Atlantic, well, you're mistaken. Lake Jökulsárlón in the south of Iceland is covered in thousands of the things, big and small. The forms they take are whimsical and really make your imagination spin, kind of like thinking about the clouds when you were young. There are all kinds of activities at the lake, but the best and most simple is to enjoy the view of the horizon in silence. It's a beautiful and almost spiritual thing. Also, the sunset is the best I've Jokursarlon ever seen and you can see Lago sea Jokullsarlong, lions flocking in the
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Cities
Page 2
2
Manuelsdóttir: The Icelandic capital is a sprawling city, clean, with wonderful air, water, a very active cultural life, background landscapes and breathtaking views. It is ten minutes from the center, and a good climate and it is magical. A place to live, despite the dark hours of winter. The perfect place to get away from everything and yet it is all just around the corner. Lively in summer, is lit up, and it is romantic in the winter. If you want it all, go to Reykjavik. Orestes Gonzalez: The Blue Lagoon, just outside Reykjavik, is a large thermal pond that is frequented by locals and tourists alike. Its hot waters create the steam that envelopes the surroundings, creating an other worldly experience. ☎ 902 236 266 - Reikiavik, Reykjavik
3
Gullfoss Falls
Enma: The famous golden waterfall of Iceland is one of the biggest tourist attractions in the region. It is in the Selfoss area which contains one of the other biggest attractions, the Geyser. These waterfall is on the route of the river Hvítá and drops 32 m. The most impressive view is of the canyon into which the water f a l l s . It is 70 meters deep and dizzying to contemplate.
Waterfalls
Skógafoss Waterfall
Jaume: The Skógafoss waterfall is on the south of the island. It is about 25 meters wide and about 60 meters high and is in the middle of a cliff near Skógar. This waterfall is very close to the parking area. Legend has it that a settler named Þrasi hid a treasure chest behind the waterfall which has still not been found. You can also climb some steps alongside the waterfall and see it from above. For half of the climb you can take a small path that allows you to reach a ledge from where you have great views of the waterfall. Also we can see a troll-shaped stone.
☎ 3 544 801 990 - Gullfoss, Selfoss
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Reykjavik
Waterfalls
Waterfalls
Jaume: The Godafoss waterfall (or waterfall of the Gods) is one of the most impressive waterfalls in Iceland. It is located in the north of the island, between the town of Akureyri and Lake Myvatn. If you park at the main parking lot, you will see a stunning view of the top of the waterfall. One story says that the chief Thorgeir was pagan and then he converted to Christianity. It has been said that after leaving his pagan roots in 1000 and converting to Christianity, he threw the wooden images of the pagan gods to the waterfall. Fred Horton: Godafoss was an amazing stop on the main highway. It is right between Akureyri and Lake Myvatn
Akureyri
Of Touristic Interest
Geysir
Enma: Seeing the great Geyser in Selfoss in Iceland is a unique experience. It is one of the most visited attractions in the country along with the Gullfoss waterfalls. To get to this area you pass warm water pools that can reach over 100 degrees and the water boils. When the famous geyser blows there are columns of hot air expelled and in some cases they reach 35 m. Do not leave the area without a swim in the heated pool, a unique experience.
Skogar, Islandia, Skógar
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Goðafoss Waterfall
4
Waterfalls
Haukadalur, Selfoss
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Seljalandsfoss
Iban Riu Frigula: The Seljalandsfoss waterfall is in Iceland, in the southern part of the Nordic island. Very close to the black sand beaches and the famous Eyjafjallajökull glacier and volcano. It's really easy to find as it is on the right if you follow the Ring Road towards Reykjavik. For me it is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country, with an extreme beauty, you can take a path behind it to get a special perspective, and watch its fall, of about 60 meters. I eas really captivated and although there are other waterfalls with more flow, and fall ... I think it here where I spent more time in contemplation. I recommend visiting it on a summer afternoon, as the sun lights it up perfectly and you can photograph it as it deserves.
Southern Iceland , Selfoss
Of Cultural Interest
Þingvellir National Park
Jaume: From Reykjavik you can see the three most prominent landmarks of Iceland towards Pingvellir on Ring Road 1, north and then by 36. Pingvellir is was declared a UNESCO World Heritage in 2004 and it is one of the most popular tourist stops in Iceland. It is 50 km northeast of the capital on the banks of Pingvallavatn. There is a visitors center at the entrance with an exhibition about the place. There is also a viewpoint there with a panoramic view of the whole area and Lake Pingvallavatn. Pingvellir can be visited at any time since the access door is never locked. For this reason it is worth avoiding peak hours for buses with tourists (11 to 16). The interest of this place is also in its geology. In Pingvellir you can see the boundaries of the two major tectonic plates, the American and Eurasian, separating above sea level. These plates seperate at this point 1 mm annually. Parco nazionale Þingvellir, Hveragerði
What to see in Iceland
9
Waterfalls
10
Dettifoss
Esteban Atilano : It's amazing to see the force with which the water rushes. My intention was take a photo with long exposure without anyone in the picture but it was inevitable. I tried to warn people but screeching didn't help with the strong flow of water next to me they couldn't hear me. Instead I took advantage of the human element to realize this photograph.
☎ 3 545 500 720 - Dettifoss Ctra. 864, Norðurþing, Islande, Dett…
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Page 3
Beaches
Sita Carapapel: This small village in southern Iceland has beautiful black sand beaches. Though you can't swim because the water is frozen, it's still nice to take a walk along the beach and then have a nice cup of Icelandic soup. I took this photo at Vik beach (Southern Iceland). Surrounded by high green mountains, there is a small church that surreal. It's a beautiful place that I recommend! Sara Martinez: In this image you can see the three petrified trolls of Vik beach.
Vík í Mýrdal, Islandia, Vík í Mýrdal
The Blue Lagoon
Pau García Solbes: The Blue Lagoon, or Bláa lónið in Icelandic, is 1 of the most touristy places, and the most rewarding. This is a huge pool filled with water that is of a distinctive color from volcanic springs. It is about 40 minutes from Reykjavik Keflavik and 15 from where we were staying. It was one of the 1st places we visited. Everything in the Blue Lagoon is incredible. The volcanic landscape of the Reykjanes Peninsula which took us to get there, to begin with. Then there are the columns of steam that rose from the Svartsengi power station, along the banks of the Blue Lagoon. Inside is all prepared for the comfort and well-being of the visitors. There are towels, bathrobes, dressing rooms, cafes, restaurants, stores ... Everything is controlled with a wrist-band you get when entering and serves as payment. The water is hot, but you soon get accustomed to it, and the air ☎ 3 544 - 240 Grindavík, Grindavik temperature is about 15208 º. 800 Besides fun, the Blue
13
Vik Beach
Spa
Nature Reserves
Glacier Vatnajökull
Jaume: The Skaftafell National Park (http://www.Vatnajokulsthjodgardur.Is/) is the largest in Iceland and Europe. The park, equivalent to over 12% of the country, is Iceland's most important conservation project. The main entrance is in Skaftafell, along the Vatnajökull glacier. You have to deviate about five kilometres from the Ring Road to reach the visitor centre with a small cafe, a park with picnic tables and a camping area. The Vatnajökull glacier is the largest in Iceland and one of the largest in Europe. It has an area of 8,100 square kilometres, and is 1,000 meters thick at its thickest point. Under this vast sheet of ice, there are several volcanoes. The Guinness World Records has declared Vatnajökull as the place with the most visibility. From here, you can see Slættaratindur, the highest mountain on the Faroe Islands standing 550 kilometres away. We Islandia, walked on this glacier all morning. You can Jokursarlon book an
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Lakes
Waterfalls
Myvatn Lake
Svartifoss Waterfall
joaquim cubarsi: In Lake Myvatn I managed to take some wonderful pictures during sunset. Unfortunately, I somehow managed to delete these from my camera, so I was very upset to find I don't have any pictures from this trip. The lake is beautiful, although, as its name suggests, the clouds of flies that surround it in summer can be quite overwhelming.
El Coleccionista De Instantes: This is the Svartif Waterfalll, or the Black Waterfall. These photographs w taken during the tour "Spring and Northern Lights in Icela with the Polar Lands Travel tour group from 27 March April 2013. Http://www.Vatnajokulsthjodgardur.Is/ Skafta National Park Photos: Icela http://www.elcoleccionistadeinstantes.com/ My B http://primaverayaurorasborealesenislandia.blogspot.com
Myvatn, Reykjahlíð
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Churches
Hallgrímskirkja
Enma: This interesting church of Iceland's capital is undoubtedly the tallest building in town, calling attention as it is visible from anywhere, even kilometers away from the city. its style is modern and "strange" as everything has its detractors but what is for sure, whether beautiful or not, is that from the tower you can see the best view of the city, and for that alone it is worth seeing.
☎ 3 545 101 000 - Skólavörðuholti pósthólf 651, Reykjavik
Svartifoss, Jokursarlon
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Unusual Places
Seltun Geothermal Area
Jaume: In the south of Reykjanes the geothermal area comes to the surface through the crack in the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, which traverses Iceland diagonally from the southwest to the northeast of Iceland. Passing the lake Kleifarvatn we can discover the Seltun Geothermal Area, which is of high geothermal activity located south of the Reykjanes Peninsula (Iceland). An area full of solfataras, fumaroles, boiling mud pools and sulfur smell. This area is the most active in Iceland right now.
Seltún, Grindavik
What to see in Iceland
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Cities
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Akureyri
Jaume: Akureyri is the regional capital of northern Iceland and is located at the bottom of the fjord Eyjafjördur. It's only 100 km south of the Arctic Circle. It is surrounded by mountains, most of them Súlur 1,213 meters above sea level, and Hlíðarfjall at 1,116 meters above sea level. The city is small and industrial. It is a historically important spot because it hosted the allied air forces during the Second World War. The old part is called "Innbaer" and is full of shops. The red stoplights in the city are shaped like hearts. It is quite an interesting feature. Fred Horton: Akureyri was a smaller Reykjavik, had a very nice feeling and had some nice restaurants. I recommend stopping in or staying, on the way to Lake Myvatn! Akureyri , Akureyri
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Cliffs
Hvitserkur
Jaume: Hvítserkur in northern Iceland, a curious geological formation formed by volcanic magma a few thousand years ago and then shaped by the wind. Legend has it that this rock is a troll paralyzed by the rays of the rising sun as he tried to destroy the Christian monastery of Thingeyrar. It is located in front of the sea in Húnaflói Bay on the Vatnsnes peninsula. Hvítserkur means "white shirt" and that name is due to the large amounts of bird droppings on the rocks. Access is from the parking area, walk down a trail to a viewpoint. Here is the starts of a small path that allows you to go down to the beach. At low tide you can get to the same base. Hvítserkur is one of the more accessible places to observe Iceland seals. However, we had no luck and didn't see any. Of course, there are lots of seabirds.
Historical Monuments
Husavik
Suspension Bridge of Selfoss
☎ 3 544 142 800 - Hafnarstett 1, Husavik 640 , Islandia, Húsavík
Volcanoes
Jaume: After visiting Gullfoss, you head towards the south to Selfoss. In the Grimsnes area, 4 kilometres from highway 35 and 36 crossroad, just off to the side is the Kerid crater. Over time, this crater has been filled with rain water. It's 200 meters in diameter and 50 meters deep with red lava and ash walls. You can reach the lake and walk around it.
Hiking
Landmanalaugar
aratingas: Iceland is one of the most amazing countries! The scenery is stunning, 100% nature that's virtually uninhabited and surprisingly beautiful. It's hard to find something similar in any other part of the world. The route between Landmanalaugar and Posmork is undoubtedly the most spectacular I've ever seen. From volcanic landscapes, you can practically see the daily changes from the area's large amount of volcanic activity. The route takes between 3 and 4 days, and just this road makes travelling here worth it. But if that's not enough, the country offers much more. You have to visit!
Kerið, Selfoss, Islande, Selfoss
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Jaume: Selfoss is a town situated in the southern area of Iceland, on the banks of the River Ölfusá. In 1891 they built it, it was the first suspension bridge over the River Ölfusá. The bridge made the city a logistical center for the region. During World War II British troops settled in Selfoss to protect the strategic bridge. The current bridge was built in 1945 after the original structure collapsed.
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Kerid Crater
Road 711 | Eastern Side of Vatsnes Peninsula, Blonduos 531, Island…
Villages
Jaume: Husavik is on the north coast of Iceland, and is a fishing village right at the border of the Skjálfandi Bay. Husavik is frequently referred to as the capital of whales, as whale watching excursions generally end in success. If you want to see a whale, come here! In Húsavík boat trips can be whale watching in the Bay Skjálfandi where they have 98% success to see whales and dolphins. The coast of Husavik, colonized by the Vikings, was the oldest settlement in Iceland. Along the road is the church of Husavik, the Húsavíkurkirkja, a wooden building imported from Norway in 1907. It is open to visitors during summer.
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Hiking
Landmannalaugar
Jordi Farre Sanfeliu: To say that Iceland is one of the most beautiful places in the world ... is the truth. To say that Iceland is one of the world's purest tourist places ... is also true ... To also say that the interior of Island shows a unique place....Is also the truth...this incomparably beautiful place is called landmannalaugar a place where volcanic activity is evident at every turn ... tiptoe through hell ...
Bakkafjörður
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Spa
Myvatn Nature Baths
Amelia Micas: I do not think justice is done comparing it to the Blue Lagoon, which for me was a big disappointment after having gone through the Myvatn. It's smaller yes, but much more cozy and natural. It gives you the opportunity to mix with the locals ve go there to have a few beers or to bathe. It's a great experience only overshadowed by the other baths, but much more authentic and special.
Jaume: Selfoss is a town situated in the southern area of Iceland, on the banks of the River Ölfusá. In 1891 they built it, it was the first suspension bridge over the River Ölfusá. The bridge made the city a logistical center for the region. During World War II British troops settled in Selfoss to protect the strategic bridge. The current bridge was built in 1945 after the original structure collapsed. Selfoss
Landmannalaugar, Reykjavik
☎ 3 544 644 411 - Jarðböðin við Mývatn | Jarðbaðshólar | 660 Mýv…
What to see in Iceland
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Volcanoes
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Hverfell Volcano
Jaume: Volcano Hverfell is located in northern Iceland near Lake Myvatn and southwest of Dimmu Borgir. This volcano that measures 430 meters high has a giant crater that measures 1 km in diameter. The Hverfell was formed 2,500 years ago and from the top you see the whole lake and the so-called pseudo craters. You can go by car to the base of the volcano and then climb to the top which takes about 15 minutes. You can also take a walk around the volcanic cone. The view of Lake Mývatn is spectacular from here.
Cliffs
Dyrholaey
Iban Riu Frigula: Dyrhólaey is a small peninsula in the south of Iceland, near the town of Vik í Myrdal. It's home to many birds that live on the island, among which are the famous Puffins! What surprised me most about this place was its long black sand beaches, the volcanic rock formations and the Puffins. When I went there I didn't expect to find them and hadn't seen any on the island. It's an easy place to find, but not so much to get to, because the access road that leads to the cliffs isn't paved. Once we got there we spotted a bird from an elevated view of the area and we took a look at Myrdalsjokull glacier. It's right behind Dyrhólaey and you can see it on days with good visibility.
Akureyri
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Waterfalls
Cascades of the Fjord
IvanMF: Seydisfjordur Fjord is one of the most beautiful of east Iceland. Apart from the picturesque town and the fjord itself, it should be noted that there are natural wonders on the road from Egilsstadir, capital of the area, and Seydisfjordur. As you go down to the fjord, you will see more and more waterfalls, and each one more and more impressive. Some appear to be lost in the caves, and others fall down from quite a height. Some can be accessed by visitors, and others cannot be. That is common in Iceland since the grounds are very delimited by fences, and many of the waterfalls, not the most important, are on private land and not accessible. But I assure you that on this road, you will not care that there are waterfalls pa bore to Christ! :)
Seyðisfjörður
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Volcanoes
Viti Volcano
Jaume: You can find the volcano called Viti in the north of Iceland next to Lake Mývatn. It is a cone of the first to be formed by Krafla volcanic geological activity. The meaning of Viti is hell in Icelandic. To get there, you must cross the Krafla geothermal plant. This volcano is north of the geothermal area of Namaskard. The interior of the crater is filled with rainwater, since the earth is very clayey and therefore prevents filtering.
Vik, Islandia, Vík í Mýrdal
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Waterfalls
Stykkishólmur Church
Glymur Waterfall
Stykkishólmur
Churches
Black Church of Búdir
Jaume: On the other side of the Snæfellsnes peninsula (west of Iceland), we stopped at Búðir (Búðir). Búðir is located on the southern coast of Snæfell. It was Jules Verne's starting point to begin the journey to the center of the Earth in his book. The town's famous black church (Búðakirkja) is considered a national treasure. It was built by Bent Lárusson in 1703. In 1984, the entire building was moved to its present location. It is interesting to note that the church is located next to a large field of lava.
Akureyri
Churches
Jaume: Stykkishólmur is a fishing town in western Iceland, north of the Snæfellsnes peninsula. This town has a peculiar church. It was completed in 1990 and its creator was the Finnish architect Jon Haraldsson. Inside the church, there are many lights hanging from the ceiling. On the altar, there's a painting of the Virgin Mary and Jesus together.
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Jaume: The Glymur Waterfall is in the west of Iceland n the Hvalfjördur Fjord. It is one of the highest waterfalls in Europe with a drop of 196 metres. It is only accessible on foot after a 2 hour excursion. To get there we headed to Akranes taking the Road 47 that runs along the fjord. We had to take the path that is at the mouth of the River Botnsa. This will take you to a parking area where the trail begins to Glymur. The first section is relatively flat. You have to cross the river crossing by a log with a tensioned cable in parallel. Before you had to go down through a cave. The most difficult part begins after crossing the river because the difference in level is very high. Here watch out for the air currents, they are usually quite strong. For the more daring, I would say that we continued upstream until we found a place to cross. We took our shoes off, We crossed the river and went back to the parking area on the other side of Akranes the
Borgarnes
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Volcanoes
Snæfells Glacier
Jaume: We went to Ólafsvík and were told not to take any excursions to Snæfellsjökull Snæfells Glacier, which is located on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula (west of Iceland). This glacier is where the story of "Journey to the Center of the Earth" by Jules Verne, was set. The only way to see the glacier is to cross the peninsula from north to south along the mountain track that leads to Arnarstapi Ólafsvík 570. This is the route that is the closest to the glacier and the experience is quite impressive.
Snæfells, Ólafsvík
What to see in Iceland
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Cities
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Keflavík
Pau García Solbes: Our first contact with Iceland was the city of Keflavik. In a few minutes, we realized just what we would come to expect from our trip through this country. It is a very peaceful country, very kid-friendly, weather that changes constantly, and of course, a landscape very different from what we know in Spain, full of surprises. In fact, just upon exiting the airport, we were greeted with a lovely Icelandic double rainbow. The ride from the airport to the city of Keflavik is only about ten minutes. The sky was leaden and occasionally discharged a burst of rain. The proximity to the North Sea made the city endowed in a semi-constant icy wind that made it feel very wintry and even a bit spooky at times. However, it seemed that the city was reluctant to a gray environment. We toured the city and saw many houses with quirky colors. It is the way the Icelandic Keflavík, Keflavík people combat the monotony of adverse weather.
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Waterfalls
Waterfall Selfoss
Jaume: We decided to visit the waterfalls Dettifoss and Selfoss. They are known as the waterfalls of ice kingdom of constant melt and they are nurtured by the Vatnajökull glacier. Dettifoss and Selfoss are located nearby. Selfoss is barely 1 km south of Dettifoss. As we were passing by, we saw a beautiful rock formation. Selfoss drop is 11 m and is wider than Detifoss.
Volcanoes
Churches
Turba de Hof I Church
Eyjafjallajokull, Reykjavik
Viewpoint of the Perlan Building
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Waterfalls
Fagrifoss
IvanMF: Fagrifoss means beautiful waterfall in Icelandic, and the name isn't a bad match. To get there we must leave Kirkjubaerjarklaustur Laki direction along the track for 4X4, after traveling 20 kilometers we arrive at the waterfall's parking. From the parking it is an easy climb of about five minutes which leads to the view of the impressive waterfall. The view is amazing and you can only hear the roar of the water. Be careful with the land of the cliff that melts away easily and you can go "down" if you're clueless.
☎ 3 545 620 200 - Oskjuhlio Hill, Reikiavik, Islandia, Reykjavik
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Jaume: Iceland is full of peat churches, most the XIX century, very well maintained, and well worth a visit. In Hof I visited one of these churches, and it was in very good condition. The peat church of Hof I was built in 1884 and was the last peat churches built in the "old style". It was built by carpenter Páisson Pali. It is one of six churches of its kind and is considered as one of their historical monuments. Today, it is still used.
Viewpoints
Manuelsdóttir: The Perlan Building (The Pearl), is built on top of natural hot water deposits and is located on the Öskuhlíð Hill in Reykjavik. On the bottom there are several exhibition halls and a museum and upstairs in the dome, a restaurant. Outside the dome and surrounding it entirely is the best viewpoint of Reykjavik. The place itself is worthwhile visiting, but the views from the balcony are spectacular, especially if you are lucky enough to go there on a clear day. The first thing we did the day after arriving in the city was to go up there at noon, on the longest day of the year (June 21). The sun was ,at its highest in the south and the whole city is at your feet, with the mountains, the Bay ofFaxaflói ...
Húsavík
Basar Route, Eyjafjallajokull
Germán Bertrand Baschwitz: If you are going to Iceland during the winter you definitely need a good SUV (and someone who knows how to handle it). We visited the volcano through what remained of the valley where the flood that caused the melting of the glacier happened. The road came to an end, and the valley's natural terrain pointed the way to Basar, but barely. It was our first experience of extreme terrain. We were scared, crossing rivers that appeared and disappeared in hours and testing the new land on which the glacier had been settled for a gazillion years. Here you can see some interesting photos, including my favourite ... Iceland is a destination for the amateur photographer.
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Hiking
Fagrifoss, Kirkjubæjarklaustur
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Jökulsárlón
Carlos Solinis: Jokulsarlon Lagoon is a beautiful place. It's a lagoon in which you'll find pieces of ice that have detached from glaciers. The lake has an outlet to the sea and depending on the tide, this ice flows in and out. There's also sealife such as seals, a highly recommended visit as well as being beautiful by day and night thanks to the numerous Northern Lights that occur between October and March.
Hiking
Laugavegur
Mufastor: Thanks describing the indescribable. Four incredible and impossible to imagine days, that you can only live and feel. From fire and ice passing through all the varieties of the inhospitable. From the heat of the refuges to the cold of the solitude of nature. The sensation of not being able to stop for a rest before advancing to the necessity of stopping yourself to record in your memory every milometer of the landscape. It was marvelous.
BillBoswell: Spent several hours photographing the icebergs washed back up on the black sand beach.
Hveragerði
Jokulsarlon, Reykholt
Fjallabaksleið Syðri, Islande, Laugar
What to see in Iceland
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Historical Monuments
The Law Rock in Pingvellir
Jaume: Pingvellir is one of the most important natural and historical sights to be seen in Iceland. In Spanish, its name is translated as "parliament plains". This is because it was in this place that Alpingi was founded in the year 930. It is one of the oldest parliamentary institutions in the world. Right in the center of Thingvellir is "law rock", where the Althing used to meet.
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Lakes
Canyons
Canyons
Alftavant Lake
Kolugljúfur Canyon
Peningagja Canyon
Jaume: We spent the night in Daeli in Vididalur. In the guest book in the cabin we found a comment that recommended we visit Kolugljúfur the canyon, which is near the place we were. So we decided to visit it. It's in northeast Iceland and is named after a famous Icelandic control called Kola. The area is full of waterfalls that are called Kolufossar.
Jaume: It is worth taking your time to visit Pingvellir. There are lots of places to see. One of them is the barrel Peningagjá or pennies well. It is filled with fresh water. Legend has it that whoever manages to throw a coin in and see how it touches the bottom of the well will have their wishes fulfilled.
amarcos: This is considered to be one of the world's most stunning landscapes. And it's totally true. The landscapes, the textures, the colours, the colour of the sunset and green hills contrasting with the intense black volcanic earth and mixtures of colours from inside the earth as it convulses ... the strength of pure nature. This is a place where you really feel that nature is alive. This trek was taken with Polar Lands. Http :/ / www.Tierraspolares.Es
Laugarvatn
Alftavant, Laugar
Blonduos
Of Touristic Interest
Bays
Historical Monuments
Staupasteinn
Whale Fjord
Jaume: Staupasteinn, the wine glass, is an isolated rock on the southern slope of Skeidhóli. It is known by various names: Prestur (the priest), Stedji (anvil), í Karlinn Skeidhóli (Skeidhóli man) but most people know it with the name of the wine glass. The rock and the surrounding area were named a national monument in 1974. To get to Akranes we headed down highway 47 that goes around the fjord called Hvalfjördur. To find it, leave the road. The detour is clearly marked.
Jaume: The fjord Hvalfjörður or Hvalf (Whale fjord) is situated in the west of Iceland between the towns of Mosfellsbær and Akranes. Its name comes from the large number of whales that once were seen from the fjord until the mid-twentieth century. To get to Akranes you must take Highway 47 which skirts the fjord Hvalfjördur.
Strange Mounds of Stone near Pingvallavatn Lake
Akranes
Akranes
Laugarvatn
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Jaume: In Reykjavik, the complete tour of the three most famous places in Iceland starts in the capital (Thingvellir) then continues towards the Ring Road 1 north, and then take the 36. The first thing we came across was Pingvallavatn, the largest lake in the entire country (84 km2). It is situated in the valley of Thingvellir. It is relatively close to Reykjavik. Near this lake there is a large open area with many stone mounds (cairns). In modern times, the cairns have emerged as benchmarks. In antiquity they were erected as sepulchral monuments, or used for astronomical reasons.
Laugarvatn
Viewpoints
Viewpoint Sjónarnípa
Jaume: Skaftafell National Park (http://www.Vatnajokulsthjodgardur.Is/) is the largest in Iceland and Europe. Very near Svartifoss waterfall there is a detour taking you to Sjónarnípa viewpoint. The walk is worth it as from here you can enjoy spectacular views of Skaftafellsjökull glacier and the sand desert.
Bakkafjörður
What to see in Iceland
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Gardens
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Akureyri Botanical Garden
Jaume: Akureyri is the regional capital of northern Iceland and is located at the bottom of the fjord Eyjafjördur. It's so only 100 km south of the Arctic Circle. It is surrounded by mountains, most of them Súlur 1,213 meters above sea level, and Hlíðarfjall at 1,116 meters above sea level. It is a small and industrial city. The city hosted the allied air forces during the Second World War. Akureyri has a botanical garden and is located at a miraculous latitude because it is almost petting the Arctic Circle. It is 3.6 hectares. Native species of Iceland as well as other parts of the world live here. The incredible array of species is due to its microclimate which allows for unusual growth of trees and plants. This botanical garden has two entrances, one is near the hotel parking Edda Akureyri.
Caves
The Hljódaklettar Kirkjan
Jaume: Hljódaklettar is a set of volcanic formations from around 8,000 years ago. It is located 8 km south of the mouth of the canyon Jökulsárgljúfur, Jökulsárgljúfur National Park. This park is located in the northern belt of Iceland. Many lava formations here help to highlight the Kirkjan (the church), also formed by basalt columns.
Akureyri
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Of Cultural Interest
The Bravery of the Sea
Miguel Santos Garcia: I went to Iceland in the month of September without knowing what I'd find in a country that is know only for a volcano that expels ash from time to time. And the wonderful thing was that after a few kilometres you find yourself by the sea with this man in the photo (my father) that adds a curious touch and yet gives a sense of what can be. Being there was one of the best moments with my camera and I enjoyed it like a dwarf.
Ólafsvík, Westland, Iceland, Ólafsvík
Húsavík
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Nature Reserves
Sjavarpakkhusid
petaqui: There is little to say, the taste of the dishes spoke volumes. The restaurant was quiet and modest, with only 4 option, but what food! The seafood soup was the best I've ever tried. The mussels came on a huge plate. The pasta with seafood was also huge, and really good. As for the typical fish, I don't know which type it was, but typical of the area. The prices were cheap for what is customary in the area.
☎ 4 381 800 - Hafnargata 2a, Stykkisholmur, Islandia, Stykkishó…
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Lakes
Lakes
Askja Crater
Úlfljótsvatn Lake
IvanMF: The Askja caldera is one of the most amazing places I have visited. Getting there is not easy. You take the turnoff from Highway 1, and you will see asign appears next to the gas station at 280 km. The track is in bad condition, and it is 110 km of this road to get to Askja. An SUV is mandatory, because you must wade rivers. Bu it is worth the car. Once we arrived at the parking we had to walk 2,5 km on a desert landscape, which seems to go back to the days of black and white on TV, are the only colors around the way. The white snow and black ash. But at the boiler you have to rub your eyes, your senses seem to be fooled. Something strange in front of you. Yes, well, a steaming cauldron of green inside the crater of a volcano, but behind the deepest lake in Iceland mountains reflecting in symmetry and perfect clarity. It seems that the view fool you. In this place Altas, was Askja you realize the power of nature. Askja, The Tierras Viti crater
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Fjords
Manuelsdóttir: The lake is south of the most famous and biggest (Þingvallavatn). This one has something that makes it equally interesting. There's the scenery, fishing, views... but most of all the redroofed white church (Úlfljótsvatnkirkja), in the usual Iceland style. Here, from the height of the road, and with the depth of the lake and the colours changing according to the weather and seasons, you have something you makes you want to return again and again. I would live in Iceland just to be close enough to this place to go when I felt like it. :)
Selfoss
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Fjords of East
lorena gonzalez huertas: We were looking for Frairecillos along the east coast of Iceland. They told us that they would be here, around about this time. After seeing the northern lights at night, we wanted to see them. While looking for them, we found this ....... Iceland in April this is solitary and quiet .... I love it!!!!!!!
Seyðisfjörður, Seyðisfjörður
Unusual Places
Drying Fish
Pau García Solbes: In Iceland there do strange things that are not exactly pleasant, as is the case of the traditional fish drying of the Reykjanes Peninsula. It was completely empty, there was not a soul about. And the truth is that I'm not surprised by the plague that was caused by the dried fish. The fish dryer is built with large wooden sticks on the volcanic sand and the fish are left to hang, drying in the sun. The one we visited is quite a way from the cities and there wasn't another living thing to be seen. Despite the foul smell it is an intriguing place to see, as they still follow the same ancient techniques from times gone by. It is also a good place to take pictures, although a touch macabre. Before returning to Spain as a souvenir we brought a bag of the dried fish. It is still lingering in our fridge waiting for somebody to pluck up the courage... Secadero de Pescado, Grindavik
What to see in Iceland
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Churches
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Church of Akureyri
Jaume: Akureyri is the regional capital of northern Iceland and is at the bottom of the Eyjafjördur fjord. It's 100 km south of the Arctic Circle. It is surrounded by mountains, the biggest named Súlur is 1,213 meters above sea level, and Hlíðarfjall is 1,116 meters above sea level. It's a small industrial center. The city hosted the allied air forces during WWII. We visited a strange Akureyri church. It is located on top of a hill and is the symbol of the city. There are great panoramic views of Eyjafjördur Fjord from there.
Volcanoes
Hekla Volcano
Jordi Farre Sanfeliu: One of the most active volcanoes in the world, where you can climb and explore its slopes (early eruptions permitting!). The weather conditions are particularly difficult here due to strong winds blowing in the area. One major characteristic of Iceland is its changing climate; if you do not like the weather just wait a few minutes for a change ...
Eyrarlandsvegur , Akureyri
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Hiking
Hekla, Reykholt
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Kirkjuffell
Jaume: Along the trail through the Snæfellsnes peninsula, west of Iceland, towards the Snæfells Glacier area, we passed Kirkjuffell. It is a volcanic mountain in Grundarfjörður in line with the sea. It is easy to see why this mountain is called Kirkjufell, the Mountain Church, as it it looks like a church roof. It is 463 m high. Note that Danish sailors call the mountain "Sugar Top". Fred Horton: Seeing this amazing piece of nature while staying in the small town of Grundarfjörður was amazing, and especially at 11 at night!
Grundarfjörður
Valleys
Iceland Landscape
Things to see in Iceland
JOSE CENJOR MARTIN: We have been driving all through the day. The beauty of the journey does permit our eyes, which are increasingly filled with more places, remember. We make notes of the details we see so we do not forget the essence of a country that was our first dream, and perhaps the last together. Iceland closes one stage and my challenge as a photographer is to capture the beauty of this unique place, to lock in my pictures some of those memories I do not want to be swollowed by oblivion.
Reykjavik
1. Jökulsárlón Lake 4. Geysir 7. Seljalandsfoss 10. The Blue Lagoon 13. Glacier Vatnajökull 16. Akureyri 19. Landmanalaugar 22. Myvatn Nature Baths 25. Viti Volcano 28. Stykkishólmur Church 31. Waterfall Selfoss 34. Basar Route, Eyjafjallajokull 37. The Law Rock in Pingvellir 40. Akureyri Botanical Garden 43. The Bravery of the Sea 46. Drying Fish 49. Kirkjuffell
2. Gullfoss Falls 5. Reykjavik 8. Þingvellir National Park 11. Myvatn Lake 14. Hallgrímskirkja 17. Hvitserkur 20. Husavik 23. Hverfell Volcano 26. Black Church of Búdir 29. Snæfells Glacier 32. Viewpoint of the Perlan Building 35. Jökulsárlón 38. Alftavant Lake 41. The Hljódaklettar Kirkjan 44. Sjavarpakkhusid 47. Church of Akureyri 50. Iceland Landscape
3. Skógafoss Waterfall 6. Goðafoss Waterfall 9. Dettifoss 12. Vik Beach 15. Seltun Geothermal Area 18. Kerid Crater 21. Landmannalaugar 24. Dyrholaey 27. Cascades of the Fjord 30. Keflavík 33. Fagrifoss 36. Laugavegur 39. Viewpoint Sjónarnípa 42. Askja Crater 45. Fjords of East 48. Hekla Volcano
Where to eat in Iceland
1
Cafés
Cafe Babalu
Jorge Montero Tapia: Babalu was the first place that we stopped at to enjoy a bite to eat and a drink during the first few hours of our visit to the capital of Iceland. The cafe is situated on one of the main streets of Reykjavík, called Skólavörðustígur. It has a rather striking facade with an orange front and on the side you can see graffiti. The narrow entrance gives way to a steep wooden staircase that leads to the second floor where the cafe is. You should go to the bar to order, do not go straight to sit at the table and wait for them to come and assist you. The best thing about this place is its terrace, on our visit we enjoyed a great afternoon sun (it was mid-June) and from there we had a great view of the street and the Hallgrímskirkja.
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Restaurants
Saegreifinn Restaurant
Ele Baños: It took about 5 laps around the block to find the place but once inside, it was worth the ride. It is a rustic restaurant located in Reykjavik's harbor area and, at first, it was a fish shop. Now, you can buy fish at the front and eat in the rear area of the building. The place is very small (it also has a small terrace but the weather in Iceland is often not warm enough) with 3 or 4 long wooden tables. It is advisable to choose your fish from the fridge (they also have whale) and they will prepare it for you. In addition to the sea-fresh fish, they make a delicious lobster soup which has become famous ... and no wonder! The food is good, the prices are excellent but above all, I recommend a visit to Saegreifinn for how well it reflects the Icelandic spirit (it is full of locals as well as tourists).
☎ 3 545 522 278 - Skolavoroustigur 22a | 101 Reykjavik, Reikiavi…
☎ 3 545 531 500 - Sægreifinn, Tryggvagata, Reykjavik
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Restaurants
Rauða Húsið Restaurant
Manuelsdóttir: Mostly seafood cuisine, taking traditional elements and mixing with contemporary styles the result of which are some delight treats. Recommendations of what you have to try - the salads, creams, lobster dishes and desserts. Wonderful. And the place is worth it with the damn, the houses and the Ölfusá estuary making it a very beautiful place.
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Restaurants
Seafood Cellar Restaurant
Ele Baños: In Iceland there are few chances to enjoy a good restaurant and most of them are in the capital. In Reykjavik you can find the Seafood Cellar, a restaurant that fuses Asian food and Icelandic dishes. It relies on seafood, prepared in a natural way with the purpose of enhancing its flavor. The tasting menu, expensive, is worth it and allows you to take a culinary itinerary by both countries. The food presentation is amazing and the restaurant atmosphere very-very nice. What might seem scary is the fact that it is just below the tourist information office but it is not at all a tourist restaurant. Two recommendations: It is advisable to book and not go with just money (although there will always be credit cards) :)
☎ 3 544 833 330 - Budarstig 4, Eyrarbakki 820, Islandia, Eyrarb…
Aðalstræti 2, Reykjavik
Places to eat in Iceland Restaurants
Humarhofnin Ele Baños: I think with this restaurant I have no decent dining experiences to review in Iceland. This is an incredible country but as far as food is concerned they do not have much to offer .We were in Höfn and after a few days where we could eat or buy something in supermarkets and gas stations we wanted to try something different. In this town we found many restaurants and asked for a recommendation. We ended up in this place, cold-looking but pleasant, not knowing what we would find. Once inside we were told that Höfn was advertised as "the capital of North Locust". Lobsters were excellent, the price was really good and the hours we were there were very funny. And, in Iceland, we must seize every opportunity to sample the fine cuisine presented to you throughout the trip as you never know how many gas station dinners await you in the rest of the route. ☎ 003 544 781 200 - Hafnarbraut 4 | 780 Hornafirði, Hofn, Islandi…
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Restaurants
Icelandair Hotel Klaustur’s Restaurant
Pau García Solbes: I will tell you about a lovely meal in the town of Kirkjubaejarklaustur. This town was our base for exploring Southern Iceland. We stayed for 2 nights at the Icelandair Hotel Klaustur. The 1st night we decided to eat in the hotel restaurant, which had a good reputation, and it was the most expensive of the trip. To start , we ordered an appetizer of goose that they gave us half the macerated and half smoked. It was accompanied with a sundried tomato sauce, which is very typical of Iceland, and cranberry sauce. Next, I ordered a Arctic char was delicious and whose garrison were boiled potatoes, shallots, sautéed vegetables and a sauce of pumpkin. Vero ordered a white fish, accompanied by a puree, sundried tomato sauce and sautéed vegetables. For dessert we had a chocolate brownie on 3a544 ☎ bed 874 of900 blueberries - Klausturvegur and6,vanilla Kirkjubaejarklaustur ice cream. 880, I think Islan…
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Restaurants
Pizzería Eldsmiðjan
Jorge Montero Tapia: This pizzeria is situated close to the Church (Hallgrimskirkja). It is a 3-storey building on the corner. It serves pizzas of various sizes (25, 30 and 40 cms.)for reasonable prices, usually between 10 to 12 € per pizza. If you order a drink, you pay a certain amount and you can get a free refill from the machine. The pizzas are very good, and the opening hours (open between 11 and 23 hours) and its location make it an ideal place to stop for a bite to eat and still see the city.
☎ 3 545 623 838 - Bragagata, 101 , Reykjavik
1. Cafe Babalu 2. Saegreifinn Restaurant 3. Rauða Húsið Restaurant 4. Seafood Cellar Restaurant 5. Icelandair Hotel Klaustur’s... 6. Pizzería Eldsmiðjan
Where to stay in Iceland
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Campsites
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Vesturdalur
Jaume: The Vesturdalur Valley is in the Vatnajokull National Park, in the northern belt of Iceland, in one of the country's most active volcanos. It has the most incredible canyons of the island. It is a zone with a lot of biodiversity, with over 230 recorded plant species. From the Park entrance to the camping area, it is around 12 km. The route is amazing and runs through canyons and zones as sobrecogerdoras and Hljóðaklettar ("Eco Rocks" in Icelandic). The camping area has toilets and food area. We come up to the visitor center to pay for the stay. In return they give you a sticker that you put in the store. Install the store along a creek. It rained all day and, interestingly stopped when we started to build the tent. At first we were alone but in the end, most hikers were there. There were 4 shops. ☎ 3 544 652 195 - 671 Kópasker, Húsavík
Hotels
Hotels
Hotels
Alex Guesthouse
Guesthouse Steig
Cabañas en Dæli en Víðidalur
Jorge Montero Tapia: We chose this hotel for its proximity to the airport and because they had a free 24-hour shuttle. We decided to get picked up from the airport, as we got to Iceland at 4am (although it was full daylight). Once we collected our bags and went to the hall of the terminal we phoned the hotel. In 5-10 minutes a nice young man came to pick us up. A few minutes later (the hotel is really close to the airport, about 3km.) we arrived at the hotel. We checked-in and proceeded to the room. The right room: two single beds, a sink, table, chairs and a hanger. The bathroom is shared but is clean. After sleeping a few hours we went to breakfast. The dining room is spacious. Breakfast is self-service and it offers coffee machine, milk, yogurt, toast, but it was just right. Finally, I should also say that we were taken back to the airport for free. A room for two people with ☎ 3cost 544 212 800 - Adalgata 60, Keflavík breakfast, in early June, us €71.
Campsites
Youth Hostels
Campsite Area North of Lake Pingvallavatn
En Húsey Lodging
Jaume: After visiting Thingvellir we decided to go to the campground where we spent the night. It is north of Lake Pingvallavatn, the biggest lake in Iceland (84 km2) close to Thingvellir. It is easy to find and the visitor center is next to the road. We stayed near the building or down to the lake shore. In the 1st case we have more services available, whereas if we choose the lake area, there is no electricity and only 2 toilets and a place to make food. We chose the 2nd option and went to the lakeside store Pingvallavatn.
Jorge Montero Tapia: Steig Guesthouse is popular for its family and almost rural atmosphere. Next to a farm, it is just one single storey building, with very few rooms (15 to 20). To get there, pay attention to the signs on Highway 1, where a small sign(1 km. approximately)leads you there. There is a parking área just outside the building. We received good customer care, they were very kind to us. The room was plain but very clean. We had a room with ensuite bathroom and breakfast was included. In the evening we used a well-equipped communal kitchen. The buffet-style breakfast was varied but there were small amounts of each thing, they were slow to refill. WIFI was available in the rooms. It is located in an ideal place if you visit the Cliffs of Dyrhólaey and a little further to the east lies Vik. The cost per room for two people with breakast included was 85euros in June 2012 ☎ 3 544 871 324 - Steig, Vik 871, Islandia, Vík í Mýrdal
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Eduard Buzzi: After dinner on a clear night with a full moon, a mist suddenly appeared and gave the landscape a different view. The small lake was completely enveloped by the mist and the small barn became a mysterious image with horses in the background, blurred by the mist. It all seemed like an Impressionist painting.
Jaume: During our trip to Iceland we stayed overnight in a hut in Dæli in Víðidalur located in the northeastern part of the island. They are very well equipped and breakfast is included. As you can see in the photos we made the most of the facilities to dry our tent and socks which were all wet after our adventure around Ásbyrgi.
☎ 3 544 512 566 - Dæli en Víðidalur, Blonduos
Hotels
Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik Natura
Alicia Ortego: The company Icelandair hotel is situated just outside the Icelandic city of Reykjavik. This is the only downside, but there is a bus stop right outside the hotel. On the other hand, it is a modern, pleasant place, offering great service and a good kitchen ... The breakfast buffet is delicious and very complete! Of course, there is a spa available to guests. I say "of course" because in Iceland this is normal. The sunsets from here are excellent, with the characteristic Hallgrimur Reykjavik church, emphasizing on the horizon. It is also a good place to enjoy the nights of northern lights, if there is enough darkness and with a little luck, of course :) Places to stay in Iceland
Laugarvatn
Húsey, Húsavík
☎ 3 544 444 500 - Nauthólsvegur 52, Reykjavik
1. Vesturdalur 2. Alex Guesthouse 3. Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik...
