ICELAND
Iceland, the land of Ice and Fire. This fantastical land has been featured in film, television shows and so much more. Pick an artform and Iceland has been featured in some fashion and for good reason! A quick Google image search proves that this small island packs a very BIG punch. The vistas here are endless. It’s a volcanically and geologically active environment which makes for some amazing experiences.
I won’t bore you with a list of facts because that’s what Wikipedia is for. But, a little bit of background information is what makes it interesting right? Iceland is juuust outside the Arctic circle but is relatively temperate because it sits in the Gulf Stream. The capital is Reykjavik and the majority of the population lives in the city and its surrounding areas. The Ring Road or Route 1 encircles the island and connects most of the inhabited parts of the country. The inner portion of the island is made up of lava fields, glaciers, and mountains. A birder’s paradise, Iceland is home to a multitude of sea birds. It’s also home to arctic foxes, reindeer, Icelandic horses and even the occasional polar bear that floats over on icebergs. But the best part? Iceland has NO MOSQUITOS or natural predators! The most dangerous animals are the sheep that wander into the road. I have to say it’s unlike any other place I’ve been. Some of the major sites I’ve listed below.
Transportation & Lodging
There are a few options available to you for transport, it really all depends on the type of trip you’re taking. Most lodging is located in Reykjavik, be it AirBnB’s, hotels, or hostels. If you are staying in the city or just outside your best bet is renting a car. There’s also the option of booking tours, where you’re taken to different locations on a bus and brought back to the city. But in OUR OPINION, the very best way to travel Iceland is via campervan. You can move at your own pace and, given how dispersed the population is in Iceland, there’s no wasted time traveling back and forth from where you rest your perty little head. There are many campgrounds throughout Iceland where you can park, and use their facilities for a small fee.
There are many campervan rental companies out there but we decided to go with CampEasy Iceland. This is an excellent company who we would absolutely recommend to anyone. We decided to rent the Easy Clever 4×4 because it comes with a raised chassis and larger tires. It also has running water, wool insulation, a heater, a compressor fridge, quality stove and plenty more! The only thing that’s missing is a toilet and shower but seeing as many campgrounds have these, they aren’t needed! You can use the coupon code GoofyBoots1 for some free add-ons at checkout!
For our last night in Iceland we stayed one night in an AirBnb and absolutely loved it! Within walking distance from downtown Reykjavik, it was exactly what we needed. Now here is normally where we would like our AirBnb, but it looks like the host took the listing down. But, it wasn’t anything fancy, just a clean mother-in-law suite with a rain shower and a comfy, cozy bed!
Places to Eat
As we had a camper van, we cooked the majority of our meals, but the few times we did go out to eat, we were not disappointed.
Located in downtown Reykjavik, this is the bar for true Big Lebowski fans. They offer quiz nights every Thursday, a burger of the month, and a white russian menu!
Located in the fishing village of Grundarfjörður, this rustic cafe is a treasure. This unassuming restaurant offers coffee and delicious food at a reasonable price. They also have a small selection of souvenirs, primarily sourced locally.
Located in downtown Reykjavik and translated to “the Icelandic Bar”. This restaurant serves traditional Icelandic fare and is the only bar in the world that serves all Icelandic beers and spirits. It was at this meal where we both tried hákarl with brennivín. Hákarl, the national dish of Iceland, is fermented shark (typically Greenland shark or a sleeper shark). The raw meat is actually poisonous but if processed correctly it can be eaten. Brennivín, which is Iceland’s signature distilled beverage, is served with hákarl often.
Tours
Unfortunately, we encountered multiple delays en route to Iceland and we weren’t able to partake in the tours we had booked. But, there are a multitude of tours available with and without transport to choose from. Now, if you don’t know us, you wouldn’t know we TYPICALLY aren’t tour people. Granted, don’t misunderstand, tours definitely have their place and honestly? If it gets you traveling, do it!
We are both open water certified and very much wanted to scuba dive in the Silfra fissure. Located in Thingvellir National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Centre), the Silfra fissure is filled with freshwater and is also the ONLY place in the world where you can dive between two tectonic plates. Sadly, as the water temp is 2-4°C/35.6-39.2°F you need to be dry suit certified to do this tour, which neither of us were. But, if you are, this is a MUST!
After some research, we had booked 2 separate day tours with the same company, arctic adventures. The first was a glacier hiking adventure, which included a glacier hike and ice climbing. The second was the Vatnajökull Cave Tour with Glacier Hike. We sadly can’t comment to the experience but I can say they offered what seemed like adventurous tours and a wide variety of them as well.
Even though we couldn’t join the tours, that didn’t stop us! We were still able to do a glacier hike. Sólheimajökull is a glacial tongue of Mýrdalsjökull glacier which is the fourth largest glacier in Iceland. The Mýrdalsjökull glacier lies on top of Iceland’s most active volcano, Katla. Sadly, with each year Mýrdalsjökull grows smaller due to climate change. Sólheimajökull has retreated approximately 1km/0.62mi in the last decade and it’s entirely possible that the country’s glaciers will disappear within the next century.
People ask, “How would you describe the glacier?” In a word, WOW. I’m always amazed by photos of these slow moving giants that carve up the earth. But, seeing it in person, touching it, walking on it, and hearing the melting ice tinkle as it moves through the caverns and crevasses is unequaled. WE DO NOT RECOMMEND WALKING ON THE GLACIER UNLESS YOU ARE AN EXPERIENCED MOUNTAINEER OR WITH A GUIDE. That being said, we did strap on our YakTrax and ventured onto the ice juuuuuuust a little bit. We were very careful with our steps and very lucky that nothing bad happened. In the past, there have been injuries and even deaths on Sólheimajökull, and glacier guides risk their lives to rescue those in trouble. Perfect world? We would’ve been in Iceland, as planned, to do the tour we booked which we highly recommend.
The little that we did see was…otherworldly. Standing in the shadow of this momentous behemoth, one can understand how nature inspires the world’s greatest artists. The striking coloration of Sólheimajökull, from the pristine whites and brilliant blues to the black ash bring to mind ethereal landscapes deep below the ocean. But don’t take my word for it. Take a look at a few snapshots we took or even better, book a tour and see for yourself!
Hot Springs
Iceland is dotted with hot springs everywhere! Some are built up and are more of a spa experience while others are au natural! The choice is yours! During our brief trip we hit 3 separate hot springs; Laugardalslaug, Landbrotalaug, and the infamous Blue Lagoon.
Laugardalslaug is located right in downtown Reykjavik and holds the largest swimming pool in Iceland. This thermal bath also has a water slide, gym, and is a great place to meet locals. The main swimming pool is approximately 29°C/83°F and the 7 (yes seven!) hot tubs surrounding it vary in temperature from about 37 to 43°C/98.6 to 109.4°F. The water is the best quality inspected 4x/day by pool staff and 4x/year by health and safety officers. One of the ways it stays so clean is that every visitor is required to “Wash well without a swimsuit before going into the pool.” Boy do they enforce that! There is a bathroom attendant to confirm that you have washed appropriately. We fully support this, as protecting the untouched beauty that is Iceland, or anyplace for that matter, is of the utmost importance.
Landbrotalaug is found in the Snæfellsnes peninsula. This hidden hot spring is actually made up of 2 pools! One, large enough for 2-3 people, and the other, while shallower, can fit a group. Landbrotalaug’s hot springs are not easy to find, especially if snow covered. Although these natural hot springs are located right off of Route 54, there is no sign, and if you search for Landbrotalaug Hot Springs on Google Maps it will not pull up the correct location! But, the harder to find, the more likely you’ll have it to yourselves. Alas, because of the recent snowfall, we were unable to find the smaller of the two. But, we were able to get our soak on in the larger hot spring. All this means is we’ll have to go back!
Blue Lagoon was the final hot spring we visited. Unlike the previous 2, Blue Lagoon is not naturally occurring. That beautiful water is actually a by-product of the geothermal plant, Svartsengi Geothermal Resource Park. Geothermal plant runoff can lead some to believe that the water is dangerous or toxic. Studies completed in the 1990s prove exactly the opposite! The water actually was shown to have a beneficial effect on psoriasis. So much so that they created a skin care line based on it! The 3 main ingredients in the water that are so beneficial for your skin are silica, patented blue-green algae, and mineral salt. The water is continuously monitored by an independent authorized lab bi-weekly. The temperature varies between 37-39°C/ 98.6-102.2°F. An interesting factoid about the water is that while the Blue Lagoon is famous for its milky blue water, it actually isn’t blue at all! It only looks blue because silica, its most abundant mineral, reflects visible light in a way that looks blue while suspended in water. The white mud that coats the sides of the pool is made up of silica.
Blue Lagoon does require a booking date and time due to its popularity and if late, entry is not guaranteed. While expensive and very popular, we STILL would recommend a visit to the infamous Blue Lagoon. Understanding what to expect (lots of people) is key to truly enjoying this experience. But remember, it’s popular for good reason! There are options that afford some privacy but anticipate paying a pretty penny.
Kirkjufell
Kirkjufell, or “Church mountain” is located on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula just outside the small fishing village, Grundarfjörður. Many times, when one thinks of Iceland, this is the mountain that comes to mind. Classically shaped, like a witch’s hat, Kirkjufell may look familiar because of its appearance in HBO’s “Game of Thrones”. This spot, seeming as if it grew out of the sea, has become a favorite of photographers worldwide. Kirkjufell, while not a volcano itself, has visible strata from volcanic eruptions. Formed millions of years ago, it was once a “nunatuk”, or glacial island. This particular mountain is so special because not one, but two glaciers during the last Ice Age, created it’s iconic shape.
After joining the many photographers hoping to translate the exquisiteness of reality into artwork, we set up the camera and began to work. We hoped for a glimpse of the brilliant light display we saw on the flight. Using the My Aurora Forecast app, we had a small chance of seeing some northern lights. Good things come to those who wait! Our patience was rewarded with a faint light show we were able to capture on camera.
As bewitching as Kirkjufell mountain is, if you just turn around you’ll find a striking mountain system called Helgrindur (Hell Gates). Helgrindur forms the spine of the Snæfellsnes peninsula where snow on the peaks never melt.
C-117D Plane Wreck
Any sci-fi fans out there? You’re in good company here! If you happen to find yourself in Iceland the C-117D (incorrectly labeled DC-3) plane wreck is a must see. You can find the wreckage of the C-117D plane on the black beach of Sólheimasandur by either booking a tour or setting out on your own. There are many theories as to why the C-117D plane crashed on 21Nov1973. There are many theories why the C-117D plane crashed. Everything from ice damaging the plane’s structure, thrusters not working properly to pilot error has been proposed. But, the most important fact is that the pilot and all aboard (7 in total) walked away from the crash without injury. The fuselage of the aircraft was left and has endured the turbulent weather that Iceland is known to bring,
In true GoofyBoots fashion, we decided to go it ourselves and walk to the wreckage site. You can find the parking lot under Google Maps named “Parking for Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck, Path to Wrecked DC-3 Plane on Sólheimasandur, Iceland”. The actual wreckage is a 3.8km/2.36mi walk (40 min-1H one way, depending on how fast you walk and conditions) through the featureless jökulhlaup (pronounced yo-KOOL-lahp) or glacial flood , Sólheimasandur.
Something IMPORTANT TO NOTE is that you do not want to be caught out in the open here if a storm comes along. There is NO shelter and one can become very disoriented with lack of visibility. So be sure to check your forecast before setting out and in the winter, be sure to dress warm. In January of 2020, tragically, 2 tourists were found dead from exposure near the path to the crash site. Weather conditions at the time were said to be extreme. Now I don’t wish to scare you away, just to urge you to take the appropriate precautions.
The path to the crash site is a straight shot to the beach. Although, you can’t actually see the plane until you’re almost on top of it as there is a small hill that obstructs the view. Once at the wreckage, you’ll be greeted by a post-apocalyptic sight. The starkness of the scene evokes thoughts of MadMax or even Into the Wild.
Another IMPORTANT NOTE is that in the past (when we visited) because this crash site is not natural or permanent, Icelanders were unconcerned with people climbing on or into the plane. But, there is NOW a sign from the owner of the land forbidding people from climbing on the plane and this should be respected. Following the rules, will ensure future access to this site so others can witness this alluring piece of history.
Reynisfjara Beach
This world famous black sand beach is featured in many films and for good reason. As if the majesty of the basalt columns, depth of the black sand, and the drama of the Atlantic ocean is intoxicating enough; add in the stalwart Reynisdrangar sea stacks, and we’re hooked. The Reynisdrangar sea stacks are also home to thousands of nesting seabirds. Unfortunately, it was the wrong season for us but puffins, arctic terns, fulmars, seagulls and guillemots can be found circling the sea stacks and nesting in the Garðar cliff face. The impressive Hálsanefshellir sea cave carved out by the Atlantic ocean makes for an awe-inspiring sight. But beware, with such stunning beauty comes great danger.
There is no sizable landmass between Antarctica and Iceland which allows the Atlantic ocean thousands of miles to build up strength. “Sneaker waves” are appropriately named because they often appear without warning and “sneak” dozens of feet higher up the beach than expected. Do NOT turn your back on the waves and keep a safe distance away. If you don’t believe me, a quick Google search will show you that there are several, and I mean SEVERAL fatalities associated with this beach and it’s sneaker waves. There are multiple signs at the entrance of the beach, warning of the dangers. Please, PLEASE be careful, heed the warning of those who live here and have witnessed death upon death upon death of those who didn’t read the multiple signs or even worse, refused to listen. This beach was one of the most violent and mesmerizing places we’ve ever had the pleasure of seeing. We want others to be able to witness the beauty and power, that is Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach.
Waterfalls
Iceland is loaded with waterfalls, some of the most beautiful in the world. The sheer power of water is amazing to see and always extremely humbling. Given our limited time, we weren’t able to visit everything we wanted to. But in the south, you’ll find many waterfalls very close to each other. We were able to visit 5 different waterfalls, all intriguing and beautiful in their own way.
Gullfoss, ‘Golden Falls’, is the second largest waterfall in Iceland. This frequented sight is made up of the river Hvítá flowing from the glacier Langjökull and cascading down 2 ledges. The first, shorter cascade is 11m/36ft followed by the longer cascade of 2m/69ft. This waterfall moves 140mᶟ/459ft3 of water per second in the summer months and 109mᶟ/358ft3 per second in the winter months. That’s a lot of water which results in a lot of spray if you stand close enough! There is a short 1.1mi trail that shows you some beautiful views of the canyon and falls. You’ll also find a restaurant and shop here. The restrooms do cost a small fee but the waterfall is free!
Seljalandsfoss, ‘Seljaland’s waterfall’ is another very famous waterfall due in part to its proximity to the Ring road but also because it is quite breathtaking. Falling from approximately 60m/196.85ft, this waterfall’s claim to fame is that you can actually walk behind it! Unfortunately, the path is only open in the summer months for safety as it gets too slippery and dangerous to walk on in the winter. Our visit here was brief but memorable mostly because of the spray! Come prepared as you will get wet, even if you don’t go behind the falls!
Just up the road you’ll find Skógafoss or ‘forest falls’. Skógafoss is one of the largest waterfalls in Iceland with a width of 25m/82ft and a drop of 60m/200ft. Legend states that the first Viking settler in the area, Þrasi Þórólfsson, hid a treasure in a cave behind the waterfall. The legend continues with three brothers who wanted to retrieve the chest from Skógafoss. Unfortunately, they were only able to grasp the ring on the side of the chest before it disappeared behind the falls again. That ring was gifted to a local church which, as time went on was deconsecrated and is now located at the open air Skogar Museum.
Skógafoss has been featured in many films and television shows and for good reason! This waterfall is something out of a storybook with consistent, heavy spray producing scenic rainbows on sunny days. Now, we gravitate towards winter scenes in general. But, the beauty cannot be denied in the summer months.
Our favorite waterfall on this list has to be Gljúfrabúi, ‘one who lives in the canyon’. This lesser known (becoming more famous by the year) waterfall has been described as a “hidden gem”. This “secret waterfall” which is not so secret anymore is absolutely worth the effort. Sitting 150m/492ft north of it’s big sister, Seljalandsfoss, Gljúfrabúi is a breathtaking beauty hidden below towering cliffs. This waterfall cascades into a cave with light pouring in behind it. Gljúfrabúi’s entrance is partially obscured or hidden by cliff rock but if you follow the small river flowing from a vertical drop, the entrance is right there! To get up close and personal with Gljúfrabúi, which you should, you need to wade into the river. So prepare to get wet! Make sure your electronics are in their waterproof casings because you will definitely want video or photo of this experience! If you visit in the winter as we did, the water level will be lower but the gorge will be VERY slippy so tread carefully! We spent a full hour, by ourselves, alongside this epic waterfall.
The final waterfall is definitely lesser known and some places are so magical they are best kept secret. This particular waterfall, while not our favorite, is a close second. It is a bit more difficult to find, we even got lost trying to find it! There once existed a trail right to this spectacular site but that since has closed due to the carelessness of visitors. There is a longer trail that exists today but again, more difficult to find. That being said, we’re willing to share our research with those we love. If you made it through this WHOLE post, you’ve earned it! Called Bruarfoss, it is known as “Iceland’s Bluest Waterfall”.
The hike is approximately 3.5km/2.2mi from the parking lot to the head of the falls PLUS you encounter some smaller waterfalls along the way! It’s a relatively easy hike, all along the river and takes approximately an hour one way. Regrettably, we didn’t get the best photos from this hike as we only brought our phones with us for photos. We’ll still share what we shot as proof of our escapade.
This by no means is an exhaustive list. Believe me, I could talk about this fantastic country for hours.
Iceland should be on EVERYONE’S must visit list. People are very kind and it is truly some of the most inspiring scenery I’ve ever seen. The austerity of the landscape is a testament to mother nature and the fact that life can subsist here is true resilience and in turn, true beauty.
5 Responses
WOW! What a great trip and info! Makes you want to go back and see between the fissures!
That’s an awesome adventures my cousin 😊🙏 of you both ,,have experienced once in a lifetime moments in Iceland ❗🥰
Keep safe and always take care you too ,,good luck to more adventurous travel cuz 😘
See you soon the land of ice and fire.. We hope we will be lucky enough to experience seeing the northern lights too.
Oh my gosh! Wow! What an amazing place that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime! Awesome pictures 😍
A wedding celebration would be a perfect place to have it!