There are several dreamlike places, where crystal palaces, endless realms of ice flowers and boundless immaculate snows are reigning. Iceland is one of those extraordinary places. iELM recommends a short trip to Iceland in the white season to admire the beautiful landscapes, unique in the world, and the general feeling of permanence and persistence of an overwhelmingly beautiful winter.
Reykjavík is the charming capital of this island located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Given that the island weather near the Arctic Circle is very capricious and changeable, the family baggage should include warm clothes, and for the little ones, appropriate windproof and waterproof children clothes. A special feature of Iceland is given by the extremely strong winds. In Reykjavík, picturesque colorful houses, embellished by snow interlace perfectly with high structures evoking the future (an example would be Harpa, the majestic building for concerts and events). The panoramic view over the city can be admired inside Hallgrímskirkja church, a Lutheran church completed in 1986.
Many travel agents may guide your steps through the organization of your favourite activities: whale watching, finding and admiring the Northern Lights (recommended: Mount Kirkjufell), fishing, photo tours, climbing on glaciers (Vatnajokull glacier is the largest, more than 10% of the island is covered by glaciers) and many more.
For a short stay, well equipped with clothing for cold weather and the children dressed in good quality outside clothes, iELM recommends visiting the black sand beaches of Vík (the nearest fishing village bears the same name), which is at approximately 2 hour drive from the capital.
Another spectacular element yoy do not want to miss is the Strokkur area, a geothermal field with geysers that erupt every few minutes. A little further there is also the spectacular Gullfoss waterfall, part of the Golden Circle of Iceland. On the way back, Þingvellir National Park will surprise you with the multitude of Iceland free horses.
For a relaxing day, plan also a visit to the Blue Lagoon, in Reykjavik’s vicinity: bathe in geothermal waters, of a dreaming blue, with temperatures around 35-40 degrees Celsius, which intensely moisturize the skin. Blue Lagoon is an institution specialized in skin treatments and spa area, but the whole country is dotted with numerous geothermal oases in the bosom of nature, with no human intervention.
There are many stories to tell about the Land of Snow, Iceland, but nothing beats a short expedition to this fairy land. Smooth ride and wonderful experiences!
