It is not easy to choose the most beautiful places in Iceland, especially if you are limited by a specific number. After all, Icelanders can be proud of living on one of the most picturesque islands in the world. Unlike the Seychelles or the Cayman Islands, however, you will not see palm trees and idyllic beaches there. The beauty of Iceland is mostly hot springs, mountainous terrain, waterfalls and ice caves. There is also a famous beach, but it is difficult to sunbathe there.
The tourist season in Iceland lasts virtually all year round. In winter we have the best chances of seeing the aurora borealis. This is also when prices in hotels and car rentals may be slightly lower than in summer.
However, the weather from November to March can be unpredictable and it is good to keep this in mind when buying flights to Reykjavik. Winter has another advantage: fewer tourists. So we will be able to discover the most beautiful places in Iceland in peace and quiet.
#1 Reynisfjara — Beach not for swimming
Reynisfjara, also called the black beach, is located about a 20-minute drive from the town of Vik in southern Iceland.
Not only the original color of the sand, but also the characteristic basalt columns attract curious visitors. The cave Hálsanefshellir is also worth a walk along the coast. Another typical picture of Reynisfjara is the isolated Gardar rocks protruding from the ocean.
The beach can only be walked on. Swimming is prohibited. Sometimes just getting close to the rough waves can be dangerous.
#2 Bláa Lónið — Dive for health
Bláa Lónið, or the Blue Lagoon, is one of Iceland’s most famous spas. Everyone probably associates this picture: blue water with swirling clouds of steam. However, the picturesque location is not the only reason for the popularity of this place.
Tourists often point to the health aspect. During a relaxing bath in water rich in mineral salts, the body rests and regenerates quickly. The Blue Lagoon is especially appreciated by people with skin diseases.
The natural spa is located less than 50 km southeast of Reykjavik.
#3 Seljalandsfoss — A waterfall like in a fairy tale
Waterfalls in Iceland are a completely separate category of attractions. During one trip it is impossible to see them all. It is worth starting with Seljalandsfoss. Water from the Eyjafjallajökull glacier falls here from a height of 60 meters.
The spectacle can be admired not only from a distance. Behind the cascade of the waterfall you will find a cave. A marked hiking path leads to it.
Seljalandsfoss is located less than 2 hours drive from Reykjavik.
#4 Kirkjufell — Lonely peak in the distance
Kirkjufell is a very distinctive mountain peak. It can be easily recognized by its conical shape. The mountain is one of the most photographed places in Iceland. It is not surprising that it often appears on postcards.
Although it measures only 463 m, it still impresses with its monumentality. From a distance and at the foot. The bravest people climb Kirkjufell, but remember that such activity is reserved only for experienced climbers with proper equipment.
Where. On the west coast of Iceland, 180 km north of the capital.
#5 Strokkur — Eruptions every few minutes
Strokkur is the largest active geyser in Iceland. On the spot we have a chance to see even several eruptions, because it erupts on average every 10 minutes. The columns of water reach 30 meters in height and can be seen from far away.
However, it is worth to get as close as possible. Strokkur dominates over other, smaller geysers in the area, but the picturesque surroundings still deserve attention. Thanks to rich deposits of minerals, the ground here shimmers in yellow, green, and red.
The famous geyser is located on a popular tourist route — the Golden Circle.
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