Iceland is a land of stark, otherworldly beauty that draws visitors worldwide. Reykjavik, the capital city, is a fascinating destination in its own right, with numerous museums and galleries, a thriving foodie scene, and a vibrant nightlife. However, there is much more to Iceland than just its capital city. To truly experience the magic of Iceland, you need to venture beyond Reykjavik and explore its hidden gems and local experiences. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey to some of Iceland’s best-kept secrets and show you how to create unforgettable memories in this stunning country.
Explore the Westfjords:
The Westfjords are a remote and rugged region of Iceland that tourists often overlook. However, those who venture here are rewarded with some of the most spectacular scenery in the country, including towering cliffs, deep fjords, and dramatic waterfalls. You can explore this region on foot, by car, or by boat, and there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. Some of the highlights of the Westfjords include the Dynjandi waterfall, the Latrabjarg bird cliffs, and the remote village of Isafjordur.
Sample Local Cuisine:
Icelandic cuisine may not be as well-known as French or Italian, but it is worth sampling. The country’s traditional dishes include fresh seafood, lamb, and dairy products, and plenty of modern restaurants put a creative twist on these classic ingredients. Some of the must-try dishes in Iceland include smoked salmon, skyr (a type of yoghurt), and Kleiner (a type of sweet pastry).
Visit the Snaefellsnes Peninsula:
The Snaefellsnes Peninsula is just a few hours’ drive from Reykjavik, but it feels like a world away. This stunning and diverse region is often called Iceland in miniature since it contains many of the country’s most iconic features, including volcanic craters, glaciers, lava fields, and black sand beaches. The Snaefellsnes Peninsula is also home to charming fishing villages, such as Arnarstapi and Hellnar, and it’s the perfect place to spot wildlife, including puffins, seals, and whales.
Go Northern Lights Hunting:
The Northern Lights are one of the most incredible natural phenomena in the world, and Iceland is one of the best places to see them. While you can sometimes see the Northern Lights from Reykjavik, your best bet is to venture out into the countryside, where there is less light pollution. Plenty of guided tours will take you on a Northern Lights hunt, and some even provide hot chocolate and blankets to keep you warm while you wait for the lights to appear.
Soak in Local Hot Springs:
Iceland is famous for its geothermal activity, meaning there are plenty of hot springs to explore throughout the country. While the Blue Lagoon is undoubtedly one of the most popular hot springs in Iceland, many smaller, more intimate hot springs offer a more authentic experience. One of the best ways to experience Iceland’s hot springs is to visit a local pool, such as the Laugardalslaug pool in Reykjavik or the Seljavallalaug pool in the countryside.
Iceland is a stunning country that offers travellers an incredible range of experiences. While Reykjavik is undoubtedly worth a visit, it’s important to venture beyond the capital city and explore Iceland’s hidden gems and local experiences. Whether you want to soak in hot springs, hike through rugged landscapes, or sample delicious cuisine, there are countless ways to create unforgettable memories in this remarkable country. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Iceland today and discover everything this enchanting land offers.
