Iceland is probably as close as you can get to walking on another planet. It’s no wonder why it’s used as the backdrop for so many of Hollywood’s otherworldly storylines.
I’ve booked a few of the increasingly popular stopovers on my way to Europe, and every time Iceland’s otherworldly beauty stuns me. Here are twelve pictures to prove why you need to visit. Immediately, if not sooner.
The rooftops of Iceland’s capital city are a riot of color in an otherwise stark landscape. To catch the best view of Reykjavik, make sure to venture to the top of the Hallgrímskirkja belltower!
The iconic Sun Voyager sculpture on the edge of downtown Reykjavik. Modeled after a viking ship, it’s a beautiful ode to the sun and a must see landmark.
One of the many, MANY moss-covered lava fields around Iceland. It’s a stunningly alien landscape you have to see in person to truly appreciate. And one of the best ways to see it is by renting a vehicle from Cozy Campers! Their vans are an affordable, fun, and comfortable way to explore all Iceland has to offer.
Speaking of alien landscapes, this black sand beach looked as if our rental car was on the surface of the moon. I’m not going to lie, after 10 minute of driving with nothing around but… well… nothing, I half expected to come upon Neil Armstrong hitch hiking.
The Blue Lagoon is a massive geothermal spa outside Reykjavik, and the perfect way to relax after a long flight. Due to it’s growing popularity you’ll want to make a reservation though, it fills up fast!
Iceland. The land of volcanos and 47-letter words. Try saying this one five times fast!
If you find yourself with a sweet tooth (because let’s face it, dessert is one of the best things in life), stop by K-Bar in Reykjavik. They have the best kronuts on the planet! So, so delicious and totally worth the extra calories! Because hey, you only live one!
Snorkeling the Silfra Fissure. The only place in the world where you can swim between the tectonic plates of two different continents (the North American and the Eurasian.) Since the water is glacial melt, it’s some of the clearest on the planet (and also pretty darn cold, so dress warm!) Seems like a good experience to add to your bucket list!
Fun fact- Icelandic horses are the purest breed on Earth. Because no other horses are allowed on the island, their blood lines have remained unaltered for decades. Sorry Mr Ed!
Another fun fact- the word “geysir” originated in Iceland with this geysir (also known as The Great Geysir) along the Golden Circle. You owe me at your next trivia night!
Venture off the beaten path (literally) to see the wreckage of a US Navy plane that crashed on the black sand beach of Sólheimasandur in 1973. Probably one of the cooler experiences in Iceland. Hope you’re up to date on your Tetanus shot!
Feel like driving an exceptionally long distance? Then visit the Búðir Black Church (one of only 3 on the island.) Why the black you ask? Because of the harsh Icelandic weather, they are painted with pitch (the same as a ship’s hull) to protect against damage.
Up for chasing waterfalls? Well, Iceland has more than you can imagine… like, one every 100 feet. Probably the most iconic is Skógafoss, which is what you’ll find in most travel photos of iceland. However, my favroite was Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall you can actually walk behind! And don’t miss the hidden waterfall around the corner from it for another incredible photo op!
Because of all this and more, Iceland is becoming more popular by the day. So pack your wool hat (or better yet, buy one when you get there from one of Iceland’s many wool shops) and book a stopover in Iceland for your next vacation!
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