Geysers
Due to the volcanic activities underneath the surface, a lot of geysers, underground springs and thermal pools are scattered all around the country. To see a powerful hot stream shooting from the ground is definitely exciting.
Blue Lagoon
This popular man-made geothermal spa of crystal clear water is the only site on earth you can swim in 40 degree centigrade water year round, and yet be encircled by ice and snow. An area where a by-product of the Svartsengi geothermal power plant is located, the lagoon’s rich mineral content is known to be helpful to a variety of settings. The icy aquamarine waters set alongside the black background of the plain landscape make this glaring contrast even more impressive making it the most photographed attraction in Iceland.
Lake Myvatn
Established as a conservation area in 1974, this place has turn to be one of the best tourist attractions. There’s much to discover here such as the waterfall of the Gods, which is considered the most famous waterfall in Europe. One can also see the lavishness of bird-life, volcanic craters as well as beautiful lakes.
Hallgrímskirkja
Hallgrímskirkja is a Lutheran parish church in Reykjavík. At 73 metres, it is the largest church in Iceland and the sixth tallest architectural structure in Iceland after Longwave radio mast. The architecture was inspired by the Black Falls – another Icelandic natural wonder.
Gullfoss Waterfall
The gorgeous waterfall is one of the most popular attractions in the country. Located in the canyon, which forms three step terraces, river Hvítá plunges creating a powerful stream and Gullfoss. There are no rails – just a natural surroundings.
Landmannalaugar
Landmannalaugar is a place in the Fjallabak Nature Reserve in the highland of Iceland. It is at the edge of Laugahraun lava field that was formed in an eruption around the year 1477. The multicolored rhyolite mountains, lava fields and the Hekla volcano make it a popular tourist destination. The striking landscapes look like a different planet. Hiking and horse riding are among the most popular activities here.
Kirkjufell Mountain
Kirkjufell is a 463m high mountain on the north coast of Iceland. The lines of its sediment are very pronounced though, and have an orderly, sculptured look. The slope of the base is very smooth and even, creating a symmetrical appearance. So despite the fact that it is not particularly vast, it has its own unique, almost architectural beauty. It is one of the most recognizable sights in all of Iceland, and attracts numerous tourists every year.
The Maelifell Volcano, Myrdalsjökull Glacier
In the south of the island, this volcanic cone made up of ashes and projections of solidified lava was created by one of the numerous eruptions that occurred beneath the ice of the Myrdalsjökull glacier. The Maelifell volcano emerged from the retreating glacier about 10.000 years ago at the end of the last Ice Age and is now bathed by the torrents flowing from the melting glacier. Its perfect cone which stands 656 feet (200 meters) above the plain is covered with grimmia, a moss that grows on lava that has cooled down and changes color, from silvery grey to bright green, depending on the soil’s humidity. This moss is one of the few plants that have been able to grow on Iceland’s territory. It is indeed characterized by a certain botanical poverty with less than 1.300 vegetal species (including 500 species of moss). Only 40 percent of land is covered with permanent vegetation. Iceland (it name says it all, “the land of ice”) is geologically very young at only 23 million years old. It has over 200 active volcanoes and many glaciers that cover almost an eighth of the island’s surface area.
Skaftafell Ice Cave, Vatnajökull National Park
The land of ice – country is literally covered in ice and snow. The overwhelmingly beautiful ice caves attract adventurers. The travel agencies organize trips to the glaciers, from where the caves can be visited.
Hornbjarg
These ocean cliffs in this country’s far northwest are not simple and easy to reach, but travelers are treated to the most stunning sight on the Iceland’s entire coastline. A razor-backed and undulating ridge is carved against the sky and on its inland part, a sheer-hill scoops down to a lovely plateau. The opposite side is a pure 534 meters drop to the sea.
The Waterfall Glymur
The waterfall Glymur, with a cascade of 196 m, is the second highest waterfall of Iceland. It is situated at the rear end of the Hvalfjörður. Since the opening of the tunnel under this fjord, most people bypass the area. However, it is a very beautiful part of the country with volcanoes and tree plantations.
Seljalandsfoss
Located between Skógafoss and Selfoss, the Seljalandsfoss is said to be one of the most photographed waterfalls in the country. Tourists can walk behind the 60-meter high waterfalls, making it a remarkable sight. The lush green setting and misty environs make this a perfect attraction to visit to take in the feel of the countryside.
Ásbyrgi
Ásbyrgi canyon lies in the north of Iceland, about 50 minute drive to the east from Húsavík on the Diamond Circle road. This is a 3 ½ kilometer long canyon with 100 meter walls. Fulmars may be seen in this place during the breeding season. Asbyrgi is situated in the northern most region of the famed Jokulsargliufur National Park.
Askja Mountain
Crater Lake in Askja.
Askja is a caldera situated in a remote part of the central highlands of Iceland. The name Askja refers to a complex of nested calderas within the surrounding Dyngjufjöll mountains, which rise to 1,510 m, askja meaning box or caldera in Icelandic.
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