Reykjavik, population 180,000, has much to offer visitors. The most northerly capital in the world is a fun, dynamic city, with interesting theatre, stores and restaurants. The food is delicious, especially the fresh seafood. Iceland, however, offers other must-see destinations where you can experience the country;s pristine scenery and outdoor attractions.
Blue Lagoon — Year-round, you can soak in the light blue thermal (38° C.) water, experience massages and dine in the restaurant, just 35 minutes from Reykjavik. The facility is built into the crater of a volcano. The main building offers views of the barren lava landscape and beautiful lagoon.
| Blue Lagoon |
| Photo courtesy of Iceland Convention & Incentive Bureau. |
Golden Circle — This full-day, year-round coach tour features the scenery for which Iceland is famous. It visits Geysir, a geothermal region of bubbling mud pools, exploding geysers and numerous hot springs, a volcanic crater, Gullfoss (a two-tier waterfall), and Thingvellir, site of the oldest existing parliament in the world.
Akureyri — Located an hour by air from Reykjavik, in north Iceland, surrounded by 1,000- to 1,500-metre mountains, Akureyri is the second largest city in Iceland. Known for its culture and entertainment, the city of 15,000 is also close to attractions like Godafoss and Dettifoss waterfalls, Lake Myvatn and the islands of Hrisey and Grimsey, which cross the Arctic Circle. In winter, Akureyri boasts ski slopes and opportunities for snowmobiling, horseback-riding and ice fishing.
Lake Myvatn — A birdwatchers' paradise, in north Iceland, Lake Myvatn boasts more than 50 bird species in summer, including puffins and whooper swans. The designated nature reserve also features the Nature Baths, a geothermal spa, with three natural steam baths, holding up to 50 bathers at a time.
TRAVEL INFORMATION
Icelandic Tourist Board: www.inspiredbyiceland.com
