When one dreams of a magical land filled with vast landscapes, northern lights, and geothermal wonders, one name comes to mind, Iceland. Our recent trip to this volcanic island exceeded every expectation, and if you’re curious about the details, you’re in for a treat.
Day 1: Touchdown Reykjavík!
Arriving in Iceland felt surreal. We promptly collected our rental car and made our way to our charming Reykjavík abode. The day was kept light, we had a delicious meal to ease our travel induced hunger and a relaxed evening to shake off the jet lag.
Day 2: Underground Adventures and Towering Sights
Kicking off our Icelandic trip, we took a brief 30-minute drive to Raufarholshellir Lava Tunnel. The underground exploration was nothing short of thrilling. We navigated the winding lava paths and heard stories about Iceland’s volcanic history as we were profoundly struck by the sheer power of nature.
Our tour shifted to Reykjavík’s vibrant downtown. Our first stop was Hallgrmskirkja, Iceland’s largest church, whose glory left us fascinated. We then continued walking through the peaceful Skuggahverfi neighborhood, set against the backdrop of the sprawling ocean and the eye-catching Mt. Esja. The day’s journey reached its peak with a visit to the iconic Sun Voyager, followed by a leisurely stroll on the colorful Rainbow Street. And what’s an outing without a culinary treat? So we stopped at Reykjavík Fish Restaurant. While the food was okay, it was their selection of beers that truly stole the show.
Day 3: Icelandic Nature Wonders
Naturally, our trip wouldn’t have been complete without visiting Thingvellir National Park. Cradled between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, Thingvellir National Park (or Þingvellir) offers an unparalleled experience of standing at the crossroads of two continents. This active geological wonder shifts yearly, a testament to nature’s ongoing transformation. As a key highlight of the Golden Circle and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Thingvellir holds a notable place in Iceland’s history.
But the day’s magic didn’t stop there. The Strokkur Geysir’s anticipated eruption was like waiting for fireworks, wholly unpredictable, yet rewarding. It was a mesmerizing spectacle seeing the powerful boiling water erupting from the Geysir.
A quick pit stop at Geysir Glima Restaurant refueled us for the grand finale of the day. The Gullfoss Waterfall, a prominent highlight along the Golden Circle in Iceland, offers a jaw-dropping experience. Positioned at the edge of the waterfall, the scenery is breathtaking. The colossal torrent of water dramatically descends into a rugged canyon, generating an intense mist and a resounding roar. The landscape is truly mesmerizing. Sourced from the Hvítá River, the waterfall can be seen from various viewing points. A visit to Gullfoss is an absolute must for anyone visiting Iceland.
Some daring visitors were standing a bit too close for comfort to the turbulent waters.
4: Day of Pampering at Blue Lagoon
Our Icelandic trip concluded on a relaxed note. We soaked in the world famous Blue Lagoon, letting the mineral-rich waters pamper our skin and spirits. Rejuvenated, relaxed, and revitalized, we were ready to embark on our next journey to Poland.
Final Thoughts
Iceland isn’t just a travel destination; it’s an experience. While photographs capture its beauty, being there in person is otherworldly. The convenience of a rental car made our trip smooth and spontaneous, and we can’t wait to return to this paradise. If Iceland isn’t on your bucket list, it’s time to pencil it in. Safe travels!
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