Iceland, Outdoor Activities Galore

Kerio Crater

Iceland Overview

Iceland is a Nordic island nation, defined by its dramatic landscape with volcanoes, mountains, glacier, geysers, and hot springs. There are numerous activities to partake in given the different terrain / climate around the island; hiking, thermal springs, northern lights, whale watching, cycling, numerous national parks. If you are active, you will enjoy Iceland.

Why Iceland

Blue Lagoon

Iceland has become a hot travel destination, it is a relatively short direct flight from the US and Europe and not as overrun with tourists as most European cities in their high season. When planning your visit most things are close to the capital city of Reykjavik. You will need to rent a car to get around, everything is spread out making public transportation not an option.

Since most things are imported everything is expensive. If you want to drink alcohol, during your stay be prepared to pay a lot more for it (typically between $20-$25 per mixed drink / glass of wine). Recommend picking up your alcoholic beverage of choice prior to arriving in Iceland at the airport’s duty-free shop or at Iceland’s airport duty free shop.

Geysir, national park

After picking up our rental car our first stop was Blue Lagoon. Stop here first or last on your vacation it is very close to the airport. Buy your tickets in advance online, you will have a predefined time. We chose the premium package that included lunch. The food was just okay, you can decide if you want this package. Our spa visit was a few hours including lunch.

Hotel Option

Relaxing was done, on to Centerhotel Thingholt hotel, located in the center of Reykjavik. For the afternoon we walked the downtown area. The hotel doesn’t have dedicated parking but we were able to find street parking during our stay without issue. The hotel’s architecture is similar to Scandinavian buildings in its clean modern lines. Ask for a room on a high floor and at the back of the hotel to avoid the street noise. Since the sun is up for 24 hours, people stay out drinking and clubbing to all hours.

Reykjavik Details

Skogafoss

In downtown Reykjavik, there are many local shops for winter weather gear and various artesian works. We were there in June and still needed winter hats while walking around. Pack appropriately with some warm items. The wind can make everything feel colder even with the sun not setting. During our stroll we stopped at a few bars for local beer. We were surprised that every bar had a happy hour that consisted of buy one drink get another for free. Still didn’t offset the large cost per drink.

Lunch / Dinner options

Hot dog house – this place is a big thing in Iceland

Fiskmarkadurinn – The Fish Market (try the Puffin)

Messinn

Gillmarkadurinnh

Golden Circle

Gullfloss

We set off for our full day of driving to see the Golden Circle Tour, it takes about 5 hours to drive everything. The Golden Circle tour included stops at; Thingvellir National Park (make sure to the see where the tectonic plates come together), Gullfloss Waterfall, Geysir area, and Kerio Crater. One of the things we love about Iceland they let you get as close as you want, no warning signs, ropes to protect you, really anything. Proceed at your own risk.

Iceland up’s the activity level providing it all in one place. Unlike other vacation options it offers many experiences that are unlikely to be together; black sands beaches one day and the next day hiking glaciers. We have done both previously so didn’t during this adventure.

Downtown Reykjavik

Driving, gives you the freedom of where to go, how long to spend and what to see. There are several things in Iceland that will require tours (northern lights, glacier hikes, whale watching, etc.) As with our other posts decide what you want to do and plan accordingly if you need a tour guide. Research any of your interests in depth, for example the Northern Lights, whale watching, or visiting the dormant volcano. We are fortunate to have done many of the activities, Iceland offers at other destinations.

Iceland Attractions

Thingvellir National Park

Gullfloss

Geysir, in the national park

Kerio Crater

Skogafoss

Seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss

Continuing our Icelandic adventure, we headed to the Southern coast. In the south, there are more waterfalls Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss. Each are a wonder to see. If you want to get up close, it is quick hike to the Seljalandsfoss falls, where you can walk behind them. Be prepared to get very wet but it is a unique experience.

Out last day, was spent at the Independence Day festival in Reykjavik. The entire city was celebrating with musical acts, art fairs, street vendors and various Icelandic sporting events.

Iceland Travel Tips

Rent a car

Buy tickets to the Blue Lagoon in advance

Think about getting any alcoholic beverages before leaving the airport to save money

Pack accordingly, the wind can be strong

Other Travel Tips