Iceland is a destination full of incredible and little-known activities, offering a unique experience to all travelers looking for adventure and discovery. Whether you are a nature lover, a culture enthusiast or simply looking for thrills, Iceland will satisfy you. Here are some of the most fascinating activities to experience during your stay in this beautiful Nordic country.
Exploring the ice tunnels
Imagine walking inside a glacier, surrounded by walls of sparkling blue ice. Exploring the ice tunnels in Iceland offers you an unforgettable and extraordinary experience. These natural tunnels form each winter when the ice cracks and gives way to underground passages. You will be able to venture into these tunnels in the company of an experienced guide who will show you the hidden wonders of this unique environment.
Swimming in natural hot springs
Iceland is famous for its many natural hot springs which offer moments of absolute relaxation. Among the best known is the Blue Lagoon, but there are also other less touristy and quieter springs where you can bathe in warm, soothing water. These hot springs are renowned for their therapeutic properties, thanks to the minerals present in the water. Taking a bath in one of these springs is a unique experience that will allow you to recharge your batteries in harmony with nature.
Observing the Northern Lights
Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, the luminous phenomenon that lights up the night sky with unreal colors. The Northern Lights are the result of the interaction between solar particles and the Earth’s magnetic field. To admire this extraordinary natural spectacle, all you have to do is wait until nightfall in a place far from any light pollution. If luck is on your side, you will be able to see these luminous waves dancing and moving across the starry sky.
Meeting the puffins
Iceland is home to a wide variety of seabirds, but one of the most emblematic is undoubtedly the puffin. Recognizable by its colorful beak and black and white plumage, the puffin is a majestic bird that delights bird watchers. To observe them up close, you can go to the Vestmann Islands, located in the south of Iceland. These islands are the refuge of thousands of puffins who come to nest there every year. You will be able to admire their aerial acrobatics and take magnificent photos.
Hiking on active volcanoes
Iceland has many active volcanoes, providing the opportunity for unique hikes in these volcanic lands. Among the most famous, we find Eyjafjallajökull, whose eruption in 2010 disrupted air traffic in Europe. For thrill-seeking adventurers, it is possible to approach the crater and admire the ever-changing power of nature up close. An unforgettable experience for lovers of hiking and spectacular landscapes.
Exploring Iceland’s Viking history
In addition to the natural wonders it offers, Iceland is also rich in history, notably that of the Vikings who played a crucial role in shaping Icelandic identity. The country is home to many sites and museums that trace Viking history, offering visitors a chance to delve into a fascinating past and learn about these intrepid seafarers.
The importance of Icelandic sagas
The Icelandic sagas, told and written between the 12th and 14th centuries, are epic stories that describe the lives and adventures of Iceland’s first settlers. These sagas, both historical accounts and literary works, offer valuable insight into life in the Viking Age. By visiting the Sagas Museum in Reykjavik, you will have the opportunity to explore these exciting stories and better understand Viking culture.
Discovering ancient Viking sites
Iceland is dotted with Viking remains, from ancient turf farms to cult sites to artifacts found during archaeological digs. One of the most notable sites is Þingvellir, the gathering place of the ancient Icelandic parliament, or Althing, which was founded by the Vikings in the 9th century. This is where tribal leaders met annually to discuss law and policy.
The Viking Age reconstruction
For those who really want to immerse themselves in the Viking Age, Stöng Viking Farm is a must-see. Rebuilt from its original ruins after a volcanic eruption in the 11th century, this farm offers a faithful recreation of life in the Viking Age. Visitors can explore the buildings, see demonstrations of ancient crafts, and even taste traditional Viking cuisine.
A journey through time
Iceland’s Viking history is deeply rooted and continues to influence the country’s culture and identity today. By exploring this part of Icelandic history, visitors can not only learn about Iceland’s past, but also the strength and resilience of its people. After all, it was the Vikings who laid the foundation for what Iceland is today. A land of endless discoveries, where the past and the present coexist harmoniously.
Discover Icelandic flora: an immersion in the country’s biodiversity
While Iceland is often celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and spectacular natural phenomena, it is also home to unique flora adapted to its extreme climate. Discovering Icelandic plants and flowers is a fascinating way to deepen your understanding of the country and appreciate the biodiversity hidden there.
Mosses and lichens: witnesses of a resilient nature
The vast expanses of lava in Iceland are often covered in moss and lichens. These small plants, which may seem insignificant at first, play a crucial role in the Icelandic ecosystem. They protect soil from erosion, conserve moisture and provide habitats for other organisms. Their presence is also a sign of air purity, because they are very sensitive to pollution.
Icelandic knotweed: an herb with medicinal properties
Icelandic knotweed is an herbaceous plant that grows abundantly in the country’s wild areas. Known for its medicinal properties, it is traditionally used to treat various ailments, including respiratory problems. The Icelanders have long recognized the benefits of this herb and continue to use it in their traditional remedies.
Arctic orchids: rare beauties of the North
Contrary to what one might think, Iceland is home to several species of orchids. These delicate and beautiful flowers grow mainly in marshes and wetlands across the country. Their presence in such a harsh environment testifies to the diversity and richness of Icelandic flora.
Wild berries: summer delights to pick
The Icelandic summer is short, but during this time the fields and forests are full of wild berries. From blueberries to lingonberries to arctic raspberries, these little berries are not only delicious but also rich in vitamins and antioxidants. Berry picking is a popular activity among locals, who rejoice in this gift of nature every year.
