Geysers, glaciers, waterfalls, lava formations and other geological wonders have carved Iceland into a spectacular tourist destination. Blessed with a splendid natural topography, this island country breeds a rich culture and heritage. Here are 10 reasons to holiday in this picturesque place.
1. Geyser is a vibrant and active geothermal field in Iceland that gives you the chance to spot some of the most intriguing hot springs and geysers. Formed in the 13th century, Geyser still offers some of the most imposing eruptions. Watch out for the Strokkur spring that erupts at regular intervals.
2. Gullfoss Waterfall is a magnificent scenic wonder of Iceland and is a must visit tourist destination. Watch the milky white water gush 32 meters over an indentation into the gorge to become one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world.
3. Take an Aurora light viewing tour which is a spectacular natural phenomenon created around geomagnetic poles. The vibrant Auroras have a fascinating mystery, local folklore and mythology woven into their existence in Iceland.
4. A natural pool of geothermal water, the Blue Lagoon beckons all those in search of physical well-being and stress free relaxation. Its waters are said to have intense medicinal properties and offer an exotic natural effect on the body. There are several geothermal spa treatments that visitors can avail of as well.
5. Visit the Volcano Hekla, an active volcano that is a part of a ridges formation and touches the sky to reveal another shining paradigm of Iceland’s natural glory. See the lava formations that run through an 18 kilometre expanse.
6. Visit Vatnajokull Glacier, Europe’s largest glacier that covers 8% of Iceland. Famed for its volcanic activity as well, Vatnajokull combines the two lethal forces of nature to create a distinctive landscape.
7. Thingvellir National Park sits comfortably on a visually striking volcanic mountain with the backdrop of flowing rivers and lava formations. Visitors will enjoy the informative trivia on Iceland’s glorious history, ecology and geology at this hotspot.
8. Turn the pages of Iceland’s glorious history at the Arnesinga Folk Museum, located in the Eyrarbakki Village, which houses a vast array of memorabilia of Iceland’s original inhabitants and traces patterns of their lifestyle, particularly those of the Arnes region.
9. An Icelandic architectural marvel, the Vidimyri Turf Church is built with a strange mixture of driftwood and turf. Currently the monument serves as a parish church.
10. The Skogar Folk Museum houses thousands of rare and intriguing artefacts from the earliest native dwellers.
Orson Johnson writes for Holiday Velvet, a website providing Icelenad holiday apartments & Amsterdam accommodation.
