Adventures in Iceland
Exploring Iceland's Natural Wonders
Iceland, the land of fire and ice, is a paradise for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. The unique combination of mighty glaciers, bubbling geysers, impressive waterfalls, and pristine highlands makes it an ideal destination for adventure and active holidays. Numerous trails invite you to go on hiking trips, cycling tours, and horseback riding adventures.
Whether you follow in the footsteps of the ancient Vikings, explore the secrets of volcanic caves and lava fields, or chase the Northern Lights – a trip to Iceland offers a wealth of experiences that will get your pulse racing. Every corner of the North Atlantic island holds new surprises and challenges.
Camping and hiking rules in Iceland
- Unlike most Nordic countries, Iceland does not have the right to roam.
- Wild camping with a motorhome is prohibited in Iceland. Since the island's nature is under special protection, wild camping is generally not tolerated.
- Additionally, it is forbidden to leave marked roads and paths with a vehicle (camper, caravan, or car). Camping with a tent is allowed in a few cases in nature. If you are traveling on foot or by bicycle, you may pitch your tent for one night if no campsite is nearby. Exceptions to this rule include nature reserves, cultivated and managed areas, and locations near roads or other infrastructure.
- Open fires are not allowed in Iceland.
- Before camping trips and hikes, keep in mind that the weather in Iceland can be unpredictable due to its location in the far north, so bring complete and appropriate gear.
Destinations for adventure holidays in Iceland
Gullni hringurinn (The Golden Circle)
The Golden Circle (Icelandic: Gullni hringurinn), one of the most famous circular routes in Iceland, leads to some of the country's most impressive natural wonders. The route stretches over a length of about 300 kilometers and is well-suited for a day trip from the Icelandic capital, Reykjavik.
An absolute highlight of the Golden Circle is the Geysir in the Haukadalur Valley. While the Great Geysir rarely erupts today, its smaller neighbor Strokkur provides regular spectacular water fountains every 5 to 10 minutes, shooting up to 20 meters high.
Next, we go to the majestic Gullfoss Waterfall, also known as the "Golden Waterfall." It plunges in two cascades into a deep canyon, with the constant water spray creating a rainbow in the sunlight.
In Þingvellir National Park, another stop on the route, visitors can witness the meeting of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, which drift apart a few centimeters each year. In the clear water of the Silfra fissure, diving and snorkeling between the continental plates is possible. However, Þingvellir is not only famous for its impressive geological features. It is also a historic site, as the Icelandic Althing, one of the oldest parliaments in the world, was founded here.
The volcanic activity of Iceland is evident in many other places along the Golden Circle in the form of bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and geothermal springs, which invite relaxation and rejuvenation.
Vatnajökull National Park
Vatnajökull National Park is named after the Vatnajökull Glacier – the largest glacier in Europe. The park covers an impressive area of around 14,000 square kilometers, making up about 14% of Iceland's total land area.
At the heart of the national park towers the majestic Vatnajökull Glacier, whose icy expanses and deep crevasses provide a fascinating terrain for glacier hikes and ice climbing tours. Beneath its thick ice sheet lie several active volcanoes, including the notorious Bárðarbunga and Grímsvötn, which have produced impressive eruptions in the past.
Another impressive feature of the park is the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Here, massive icebergs drift, offering a breathtaking spectacle, especially at sunset, providing unforgettable views.
In winter, numerous ice caves present themselves in shades of blue and turquoise. Some of these caves, such as the famous Crystal Cave, can be visited on guided tours.
Vestfirðir (Westfjords)
The Westfjords, called "Vestfirðir" in Icelandic, are a remote and rugged region in the northwest of Iceland, spanning approximately 22,000 square kilometers like a branching arm into the North Atlantic. They are known for their unspoiled landscape, steep cliffs, and deeply cut fjords. The Westfjords are a retreat for those who want to experience the wild and untouched Iceland away from the main tourist attractions.
An unforgettable landmark of the Westfjords is Látrabjarg, the westernmost point of Europe. This impressive cliff stretches over 14 kilometers and rises up to 440 meters straight out of the sea.
Látrabjarg is especially known for its massive bird colonies. On a hike, you might be lucky enough to observe thousands of puffins nesting here during the breeding season.
Another highlight of the region is the Dynjandi Waterfall, or Fjallfoss. It is the largest waterfall in the Westfjords and cascades down the mountains in several tiers, with each tier displaying its own unique pattern.
The remote beaches of the Westfjords are a paradise for those seeking tranquility. Rauðasandur, an expansive beach with reddish sand, offers a stunning contrast to the green landscape and the blue sea. It is a quiet place, off the beaten path, ideal for relaxation and long walks. You can also find relaxation in the hot springs, many of which are hidden in the wild surroundings.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula
The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is located in the west of Iceland. Often referred to as Iceland in miniature, its landscape encapsulates the essence of the entire country along its approximately 90-kilometer length.
The peninsula's namesake landmark is the Snæfellsjökull volcano, which is famous not only for its majestic appearance but also for its role in Jules Verne's novel "Journey to the Center of the Earth." Its ice-covered peak offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape for hikers and mountaineers.
The coastline of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is characterized by rugged cliffs, black lava beaches, and picturesque fishing villages.
A particularly noteworthy spot is Djúpalónssandur beach, where smooth lava rocks and historic remnants of old shipwrecks await visitors. The waters around the peninsula are also inhabited by whales and dolphins, making it a popular destination for whale-watching tours.
Conclusion: Magical experiences in Iceland
In the rugged beauty of Iceland, adventurers and nature lovers will find an unparalleled experience. The diverse landscapes and mysterious phenomena invite you to explore boundaries and discover the unknown. An active and adventure holiday on this unique island leaves unforgettable impressions that linger long in the heart.
Have you caught the travel bug and are ready for a new adventure?
Find out more about highway tolls in Iceland so that you are optimally prepared for your holiday.