Book your trip Rent a car Connect with locals Explore Iceland Lowest Prices in Iceland Best prices guaranteed Largest Selection of Travel Services Over 5,000 things to see and do Easy Booking & Cancellation Personalised & flexible customer care Most Popular Website about Iceland An unrivalled source of information Top 10 Hotels in Iceland Text by: Nanna Gunnarsdóttir What are the best hotels in Iceland? Where are the best hotels in Reykjavík? Where to book accommodation in Iceland? What is accommodation in Iceland like? Read about best value hotels and luxury hotels in Iceland here. Have you booked your flight to Iceland but are now wondering where to stay? Iceland offers a variety of accommodation, including camping, private cottages, hostels, bed and breakfast, farm stays, Air BnB as well as a variety of hotels, both good value hotels and luxury hotels. There are a few hotel chains in Iceland. Foss hotels have 12 hotels around the country. The newest one, Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon, is a 4 star hotel that opened in 2016 in a gorgeous location close to Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. Another one of our favourites is Fosshotel Vatnajökull, that has a great view of the stunning Vatnajökull glacier. See also: Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon | The Crown Jewel of Iceland's nature Another chain is Icelandair hotels, with a total of 9 hotels dotted around the country. Our favourite is the Icelandair hotel in Vík, a new and stylish hotel in a beautiful setting. Note that breakfast is not included in the prices at Icelandair hotels but can be purchased when you book. KEA hotels have a total of 8 hotels around the country, thereof 5 in Reykjavík, 2 in Akureyri and one by Lake Mývatn. The KEA hotel in Akureyri has the most perfect central location, right next to the iconic church and the ever so popular Akureyri swimming pool. However, our favourite has to be the newly opened Apótek hotel in the centre of Reykjavík, in one of Reykjavík's landmark buildings. If you want to treat yourself to a great meal in Iceland, check out Apótek restaurant as well, no matter if you're staying at the hotel or not. Center hotels have 6 different hotels, all in Reykjavík. For a stay in Reykjavík, any of the Center hotels are a good option as they are all centrally located, stylish but still good value for money. Check out the Ský Lounge Bar at Center Hotel Arnarhvoll for the best view of the Northern Lights from Reykjavík city, as it is situated high up above the streetlights. Edda hotels is Iceland's oldest summer hotel chain, now with 11 hotels around Iceland. The hotels are only open during summer time and most of them close mid August. The chain hotels are mostly good value no matter which hotel you pick. The newer hotels are more stylish, are more likely to be 4 star hotels and may have more amenities, such as spas or gyms. The older hotels are cheaper and have a certain quirky charm about them. We at Guide to Iceland have made a list of our top 10 hotels in Iceland, which is not only based on luxury, comfort and style but also value for money. See also: Where to Stay in Iceland Luxury Hotels in Iceland First up, let us tell you a little bit of what to expect when you book a luxury hotel in Iceland. When it comes to luxury in Icelandic hotels, you should not expect the same luxury as you'll find in the top hotels around the world! There are no 5 star hotels in Iceland - but quite a few 4 star hotels. Iceland's first 5 star hotel, a Marriott Edition hotel, is set to open in downtown Reykjavík, next to Harpa Concert Hall in 2019. It will have conference and meeting rooms, several restaurants and spa facilities and be in an unbeatable central location. The general emphasis of hotels in Iceland is on the surrounding nature. Even the most luxurious hotels in Iceland won’t offer much more than friendly service, only one good restaurant and bar, comfortable and clean rooms that are en-suite, continental or buffet breakfast and possibly a pool, spa and/or a sauna. Perhaps even a tiny gym. So if you’re used to a 5 star hotel luxury, take note that your Icelandic luxury will be a bit more rustic, wild and intimate. There won’t be multiple pools or restaurants anywhere or champagne breakfasts. Some hotels may not have the possibility to get breakfast in bed. Some may not even have room service. Others may only have shared bathrooms. They’re pretty much self-service. And you can forget about a pillow or a duvet menu! It's not all doom and gloom though! On the other hand, many hotels are family run and they strive to provide you with good and friendly service. Many new restaurants are popping up that use Icelandic fresh and local ingredients and most hotels in the countryside are ideally situated, surrounded by stunning nature. See also: The Best Restaurants in Reykjavík Iceland is rich in minerals and hot springs and if the hotel doesn’t boast its own spa, it may be situated very near one. Whereas most hotels don’t have a gym, they may have a nearby mountain to climb or various hiking trails. Or horses on site to go horseback riding. And Reykjavík’s hotels compete with each other in good design, good restaurants and cocktail bars. On top of that, many hotels have their own cute and quirky charm that you can see in small details. Iceland’s tourism industry is young and the service is constantly improving. That’s something to consider when you look through menus or websites that may contain a spelling mistake or two. For a romantic getaway break then you might also want to look into booking your own personal countryside cabin. Icelandic summer cabins, or cottages, can be found all over the country, varying in amenities and luxury. The majority of them have a hot tub though, and are situated in amongst the spectacular nature, tranquil and secluded. There's no better way to enjoy the Northern Lights than from your own hot tub, far away from any light pollution - it really is the best seat for the show! To find a suitable cabin, you can browse through a variety of them in different regions of Iceland on the Bungalo website. But if your heart is set on a hotel, then the following list is a mix of luxurious hotels, apartment hotels, small boutique hotels as well as more basic hotels that are good value. We want to be able to cater to all tastes. 10. Hotel Katla This traditional 3 star country hotel is great value for money and in a fantastic location. It's also recently been renovated, offering a number of new and stylish accommodation mixed in with rooms in an older style. Situated near the village Vík you have easy access to some of the country's most breathtaking locations, such as Dyrhólaey cliffs, Seljalandsfoss waterfall and Skógafoss waterfall. Many people that are driving the south coast of Iceland from Reykjavík towards Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon choose to spend the night at Vík and then Hótel Katla is a great and affordable option. All guests have access to their outdoor hot tubs and the restaurant serves a buffet breakfast and a delicious and extremely varied dinner buffet with local specialities. There is also a cosy bar where you can have a drink before or after dinner. Rooms: Standard and superior single, double and triple rooms. Breakfast buffet is included in all prices. For updated prices, check Hotel Katla’s website. Find south coast tours here 9. Hotel Flatey Hotel Flatey is a really cute small hotel in a restored building that offers 11 rooms with space for 27 people. This is the only hotel in the sparsely populated Flatey island, that's truly one of Iceland's gems. Flatey is the largest island on Breiðafjörður fjord but it only has a population of about 100 people during summer and about 5 during winter. The island's appeal lies in its tranquility and remoteness. Most of the colourful houses have been restored in their original style, from the time of the island's prosperity. Besides birdwatching and strolling around the island (it takes about 30 minutes) there's not much else to do but let go of your worries and let your imagination take hold of you. The perfect place to be inspired. The rooms in Flatey Hotel are small and simple, but with a stylish Nordic decoration, freshly picked flowers, cosy and charming. Their restaurant, Samkomuhúsið, serves delicious food, mostly freshly caught seafood. There are no en-suite rooms, all of the rooms have shared facilities. The hotel is only open in the summertime, between the 1st of June and the 24th of August. Rooms: Single, double, suite (2 people) and triple rooms. Breakfast is included in all prices. For updated prices, check Hotel Flatey’s website. See also: The remote island Flatey 8. Room With a View Apartments Room with a view is a luxury apartment hotel in the centre of Reykjavík. The apartments come in different shapes and sizes but are all situated right in the centre of Reykjavík, literally on the main shopping street, Laugavegur. All of the apartments have a fully furnished kitchen and a private bathroom, although their best value apartments have a private bathroom that's across a corridor. Bright colours mixed with white, black and grey dominate the decorations but each apartment is unique. All of the apartments have access to a shared sun-roof with a jacuzzi, a lounge with tables and chairs and a great view over the city. The hotel is a part of IGLTA, the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association and doesn't discriminate against guests of any sexuality. This is a great option for people that want to be at the heart of the city, on a romantic getaway, a weekend party vacation or on a business trip. All the bars, restaurants and shops are a stone throw away. Rooms: Studio apartments, larger apartments, group apartments, penthouse apartments. Breakfast is not included. For updated prices, check Room With a View’s website. See also: Gay Iceland: All you need to know 7. Frost and Fire Hotel Frost and Fire (Frost og Funi in Icelandic) is a lovely hotel situated in Hveragerði, a mere 45 minute drive from Reykjavík. The hotel’s focus is on the hot springs in the area and they offer a 12 metre long pool, a hot tub and an indoor spa with hot and cold Kneipp footbaths and newly opened mud baths. Additionally, you can always go for a soak in the nearby naturally warm river. In summertime the river’s temperature next to the hotel can reach up to 18°C. Each guest is provided with a bathrobe and slippers during their stay. The hotel also boasts the restaurant Varmá, that serves delicacies such as wild game goose, ptarmigan and reindeer as well as traditional lamb and seafood. From Hveragerði you can hike up to the warm river in Reykjadalur where you can bathe, or go on a horseback riding tour to Reykjadalur hot springs. Further up in Reykjadalur valley you’ll reach the warmest part of the river, where it’s as warm as a hot tub. Hveragerði itself is famous for its greenhouses and all the nearby hot springs. From the hotel you’ll see steam rising all around you and the crackling of the nearby hot springs can help you fall asleep at night. Our local Regína went to stay here and you can read more about her stay in her blog post about Frost and Fire Hotel. Rooms: Single, double and family rooms. Breakfast is included in all prices. For updated prices, check Frost and Fire's website. See also: The 5 Best Hot Springs in Iceland 6. Hotel Rangá Hótel Rangá is situated in the south of Iceland, near the small town Hella. This is a luxury hotel that feels somewhat like a wild wooden ranch in the middle of nowhere. The hotel prides itself on being one of the best locations to see the Northern Lights as it is far away from any other light sources. They even offer a service where they can wake you up if the lights appear while you are asleep. The hotel is famed for having delicious food at their restaurant, although it may come with a hefty price tag. They are also famous for the themed decoration of their junior and master suites, as they are somewhat outrageously themed after the world's continents. Their Antarctica suite is for example decorated with (fake) penguins, the African suite has a fair share of wooden giraffes and animal prints and their North American suite is full of stuffed animals and bear skins. They also offer standard and deluxe rooms and the Royal Suite, which are not themed after a continent. There are quite a few extras available at this hotel, you can order a massage and a number of items can be delivered to your room, such as cheese platters, bouquets of flowers, chocolate covered fruits, champagne bottles etc. Jacuzzis are also available to relax in outside the hotel, from where you can admire the Northern Lights on a clear night. The view from the hotel is towards the volcano Hekla or to the nearby salmon river that the hotel is named after, Eystri Rangá. It's an hour's drive from Reykjavík to Hotel Rangá and it's a great location to go and explore the south coast of Iceland from. Perfect location if you want to go salmon fishing or horseback riding. Rooms: Standard single and double, Deluxe single and double, themed Junior Suites and Master Suites. Breakfast buffet is included in all prices. For updated prices, check Hotel Rangá’s website. See also: Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) in Iceland 5. Hotel Egilsen Hótel Egilsen is a small and intimate 10 bedroom boutique hotel situated in Stykkishólmur on Snæfellsnes peninsula. This homely and cute hotel is run by the story lover Gréta. Every morning she cooks healthy homemade breakfast with local fresh organic eggs. For lunch she serves freshly made soup with herbs from her own garden, along with homemade bread and mozzarella. Around 3 o’clock she’s serving homemade waffles or blueberry pies with ice-cream from a local farm. And besides making food, she listens to and tells stories. The hotel centres around stories in all shapes and sizes. Locals regularly come to the guest lounge to tell stories. Guests that tell Gréta a story, poem or send her pictures or draw a picture for her, get a special treat. (Maybe even a discount off their stay!) The 10 rooms are small but bright, with attention to detail. All rooms are en-suite. In every room is a Coco-Mat bed that's made from natural materials from renewable sources, specially selected to give the guests a good night's sleep. Stykkishólmur featured prominently in the movie The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, as it was used to portray a town in Greenland. It is one of Iceland’s prettiest towns, situated on the northern side of Snæfellsnes peninsula with a view over the Breiðafjörður fjord. Breiðafjörður is full of small islands of every shape and size, the largest one being Flatey island. Many boat tours operate from Stykkishólmur, both the ferry Baldur that goes via Flatey island over to the Westfjords as well as various daytours, including this Viking Sushi Adventure tour. Bike rentals are available from the hotel and Snæfellsjökull glacier is just about an hour’s drive away. Rooms: Standard single, standard double, superior double. Breakfast is not included and costs an additional 2500 ISK per person. For updated prices, check Hotel Egilsen’s website. Find Snæfellsnes tours here 4. Hotel Laxá Hótel Laxá is a 3 star hotel by Lake Mývatn. It opened in 2014, quickly received a certificate of excellence from Tripadvisor and aims to be green and eco-friendly. The hotel’s fun and funky décor is also stylish and the hotel boasts a lounge, bar and a restaurant that has an emphasis on local ingredients. Lake Mývatn is one of Iceland’s gems. It’s famous for its spectacular nature, full of pseudo-craters, interesting flora and fauna, peculiar rock formations and hot springs. Nearby you’ll find Dimmuborgir (Dark Cities), a great area to explore on foot with its hauntingly beautiful lava landscape. You can also head to Mývatn Nature Baths and soak in hot natural water. Or go fishing in Laxá river. Rooms: Single, Single with lake view, Double, Double with lake view. All rooms are ensuite. Breakfast is included in all prices. For updated prices, check Hotel Laxá’s website. Find Mývatn tours here 3. Hotel Búðir Búðir is an upscale but cosy country hotel on the Snæfellsnes peninsula, not too far from Arnarstapi. The location of the hotel is exceptionally idyllic and romantic, nearby one of Iceland’s three national parks. You have a view of the looming Snæfellsjökull glacial volcano, by the coast you can admire the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean on a white beach and on a clear day you have a view across the bay to Reykjavík! There are many hiking routes in the area, an otherworldly lava field covered with squishy moss, a rich birdlife and an abundance of caves to explore. This location is exceptionally popular for weddings, as the ceremony can be held in the nearby picturesque black wooden church, on the white beach or in the midst of a lava field! See also: Best Places for Marriage Proposals in Iceland Snæfellsjökull glacier is the entryway to the centre of the Earth in Jules Verne’s novel Journey to the Centre of the Earth. Many people feel the natural power of this glacial volcano when they are near it. The summit can be reached after a few hours hike and you can also choose to go snowmobiling on it. Rooms: The Loft, Standard, Deluxe, The Suite. Breakfast is included in all prices. For updated prices, check Hotel Búðir’s website. Contact us for weddings and events here 2. Hotel Sigló This brand new hotel in picturesque Siglufjörður in north Iceland is the only hotel in Iceland with a dock entrance! So if you arrive on a boat, you’ll have a private harbour. Hotel Sigló is stylish but with a definite small fishing town charm, more due to its location than its decoration. It's actually extremely modern with a very spacious lobby, big rooms and a stylish outdoor hot tub right next to the marina. All rooms have ocean and mountain views and all guests have access to their hot tubs and sauna. You don’t need a boat to reach the gorgeous town of Siglufjörður. It is one of Iceland’s hidden gems, slightly off the beaten track but easily reachable by car. It is situated on Tröllaskagi (Troll peninsula!) in the north of Iceland, not far off from Akureyri, the capital of the north. The hotel is situated within the Marina Village, along with the neighbouring restaurant Hannes Boy and the café Rauðka. The hotel itself also boasts a lobby bar and café and a delicious restaurant called Sunna. You might even catch a glimpse of the chef picking out the freshest fish when the fishing trawlers sail in. Siglufjörður used to be quite isolated as the mountain pass to reach it wasn’t opened until 1967. Before then, people had to sail in and out of the town. Take advantage of this mountain pass and go explore this beautiful town, its nearby hiking trails, planted forest or its great skiing area. Rooms: Classic, Deluxe, Junior Suite and Suite. Breakfast is included in all prices. For updated prices, check Sigló Hotel’s website for more details. Find rental cars here 1. Icelandair Hotel Reykjavík Marina Our number one hotel is located by the old harbour in the centre of Reykjavík – and a part of the Icelandair hotel chain. We think this is a fun and modern hotel, and the best value hotel you can get in the capital. It’s in an exciting location, right between the town's centre and the trendy and arty sector of town in the Grandi area. The hotel itself has a funky design, with bright colours, cosy fireplaces as well as a maritime theme. All the design in the hotel is Icelandic and is also produced in Iceland. Slippbarinn restaurant and bar is popular with both locals and travellers, often hosting live pop up music events and DJ's playing on weekends. Every day between 15 and 18 there's a happy hour at the bar. The café Kaffislippur is a part of the hotel as well, featuring a nice delicatessen. Additionally the (not included) breakfast buffet is delicious! The hotel features a small cinema that can be hired and that screens kid's films during brunch time at weekends. There's also a small gym on site for guests as well as a couple of meeting rooms. As the hotel is situated right next to Reykjavík’s old harbour, you’re very close to a number of exciting seafood restaurants. Right next door is the popular Bryggjan Brewery and close by are some of Reykjavík's most celebrated art galleries and museums. Any of the main attractions within the city centre, such as Hallgrímskirkja church, Harpa Concert Hall or the city pond are within a 5-15 minute walking distance. Rooms: Standard, Superior, Studio, Attic Rooms, Deluxe Rooms, Junior Suites and Marina Suite. Breakfast is included in all prices. For updated prices, check Icelandair Hotel Marina's website. See also: Top 10 things to do in Reykjavík See also: Best attractions by the Icelandic ring road See also: 20 hidden gems in Iceland Latest Popular The Top 9 Hostels in Reykjavik What are the top picks for hostels in Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavík? What are the available options, and how much will one night in an average Reykjavík hostel cost? Read on to find out the top 8 Hostels in Reykjavík. Contents 1 - Hostelling in Iceland's Capital 1.1 - Before Checking In 2 - Hlemmur Square 3 - Kex Hostel 4 - Loft HI Hostel 5 - Galaxy Pod Hostel 6 - Reykjavik HI Hostel 7 - Bus Hostel 8 - Hostel B47 9 - Reykjavik Hostel Village 10 - Reykjavik Downtown HI Hostel Hostelling in Iceland's Capital Let's face it. It's been said before . It will be said again . Iceland is an expensive country... This can be something of a deterring notion for prospective travellers, individuals, friends and families who are dying to experience the Land of Ice and Fire but feel it enormously exceeds their budget. This is especially true of the younger generation, travellers who sit within the 18-35 range, who tend to boast less in savings but are a touch more flamboyant with their disposable income. See Also: Where to Stay in Reykjavik. After all, we're talking hotel rooms, we're talking rental cars, we're talking tour activities... and that's before we've even thought about food, drink, souvenirs and flights... there's no getting around it, a trip to Iceland requires denting the wallet. Still, there are a great number of ways to minimise the cost, keeping both your financial advisor and holiday party satisfied. One of the major ways of slicing down your budget is to utilise one of Reykjavík's numerous hostels. Of course, hostels do have something of a reputation, especially in places considered to be "party cities". Potential guests worry about a lack of privacy, too much noise, the possibility of theft.... well, let's pack those fears up right now. The hostels found in Reykjavík are, without exception, safe, professional and catered to providing as much comfort, quality and privacy as possible. They also offer young travellers exactly the amenities required of them during their stay in the country (largely, convenience and low cost) and the opportunity to meet other travellers on the road. Positives such as these cannot be overlooked by the bank-weary road warrior. See Also: Airport Transfer from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík Hotels. And let's be real for a moment, shall we ? Travelling all the way to Reykjavík, Iceland, one should really be considering how much time you will be spending in the room anyway. With an untapped wealth of natural attractions, be they waterfalls, glaciers or national parks, and activities to fit, there's frankly no other way of looking at accommodation in Iceland as anything but a place to store your gear and rest your head. Before Checking In No doubt, upon finishing the article you will have a far wiser idea on which hostel to stay at whilst in Iceland (for that, you can send tips directly to my bank account). However, the protocol for each hostel listed regarding check-in and departure differs somewhat; exact details can be found on their own websites. But, for an overview... There are a number of important items on the checklist to tick off before arriving at your hostel. For one, you will need to make sure that you have a government-issued photo-ID, as well as proof of your booking, be it a printed voucher or e-ticket. One should also be aware of the fact that a number of hostels in Iceland, in fact, belong to larger regulatory bodies, namely Hostelling International and National Youth Hostel Association. See Also: Ultimate Guide to Flights to Iceland. These are membership organisations, meaning that upon arrival, you can expect there to be a discrepancy between the rates for paying members and yourself (unless, of course, you are a member), so be wary of being caught out. Often, membership will be offered when you check in for the first time, and if you decide against this, supplementary charges of approximately 700 ISK will be added to your rate. Those who are under 18 years old will also, more often than not, need to be in possession of a signed letter from their legal guardian permitting them to stay unsupervised. Hlemmur Square Hostel Photo from Hlemmur Square website. Situated right next to the trendy Hlemmur Food Hall inside a beautiful art deco building in the centre of Reykjavík, Hlemmur Square is not only a hostel but also features a hotel, bar and restaurant. So if you're looking for a cheaper dorm room you can find that here, as well as a private hotel room. Convenient if travelling in a group with different budgets/priorities. This is an upscale hostel where the spacious dorm rooms also offer seating areas with comfortable sofas. The beds are made up with linen, duvets, pillows and bed sheets and no sleeping bags are allowed. There are two kitchens for guests to cook in, as well as access to the ground floor bar where you should make the most of their daily happy hour. However what makes this one of the best hostels in town is that it's so ready to support the local art scene. You'll often find live music here, or bump into the weekly lindy hop dance nights on weeknights. If you're lucky, you might even find yourself in an opening party for one of Reykjavík's best festivals, including Iceland Airwaves , Reykjavík International Film Festival or Reykjavík Fringe Festival . Dorm rooms are from 5,200 ISK during high season, with double rooms going for 25,500 ISK. See Also: Top 10 Festivals in Iceland . KEX Hostel Photo From: Kex Hostel . KEX is situated in an old biscuit factory, a fact it has readily adopted with its vintage art-decor, live and swinging musical performances and tasteful drinks selection. The word 'Kex', in fact, translates to this lovable snack in Icelandic. The gastropub, Sæmundur í Sparifötunum, sits directly within the hostel, offering fantastic meal options, genuine service and, most importantly, an elegance and class often overlooked in international hostels. See Also: Happy Hour | Reykjavik's Cheapest Beers . All of this and more has made KEX a beloved local spot, an attraction in its own right, making it, perhaps, one of the more iconic hostels to stay at whilst in Reykjavík city. Regarding accommodation options, KEX offers a variety, ranging from 16-bed dorm rooms (kr 5,150.00) to 6-bed family rooms (kr 46,200.00). Those looking to stay in a double standard room are looking to pay around kr 26,900.00. A full list of their room prices can be found on the KEX Hostel website. Loft Hostel Photo From: Loft . Loft Hostel is another establishment the locals hold dear to their hearts, in large part thanks to its 4th story balcony, from which one can idle away a summer’s day overlooking the cityscape whilst sipping at a cool lager. Inside, the hostel boasts a bar and a large seating area adorned with rows upon rows of books, a physical reminder of the establishment's ever-running book drive. This point, in fact, makes Loft one of the nicest places to visit in Iceland, if only for an extended reading/drinking session... two activities I've always felt go hand in hand. See Also: Top 10 Apps for Travelling in Iceland. Loft places emphasis on community, hosting a number of events throughout the month. These can range from swap shops, where guests bring garments they no longer wear in the hopes of trading items with another, to musical performances, yoga and special events. Loft’s accommodation takes the form of both dormitories (6-bed and 8-bed options), and rooms, (4-bed, double/twin rooms and double deluxe). Galaxy Pod Hostel Photo From: Galaxy Pod Hostel . Capsule hotels were first conceived of in Japan, coming into existence in the year 1979. Since their inception, hotel owners have felt gratified in the number of guests they can now cater to in a relatively small space, whilst the guest themselves continue to enjoy both the novelty and privacy such pods provide. The Galaxy Pod Hostel is Iceland's very own slice of Japan, providing a unique and futuristic experience when compared to other hostels in the city. For those on a budget, or those who feel aroused at the idea of total containment, the Galaxy Pod Hostel is a choice worthy of consideration. See Also: What To Do & Where To Go In Iceland . Accommodation options are split into 8-person dorm, 4-bed dorm, 6-person female dorm and a 24-person dormitory. Each of these dorms are, of course, comprised of a number of conjoined, but intimate pods. Among the advantages of staying in your own capsule are: further privacy, air fans, a secure locker, electrical plugs and a reading light, complete with numerous settings. All linen is also provided and the room comes with extra secure lockers for storing your luggage. Laying back, you'll feel as though you've taken a starring role in Prometheus, and for that, one should be grateful. This sense of fantasy and science fiction is only built upon further by the Stargate Virtual Reality Arcade, a part of the Galaxy Pod Hostel focused on providing quality VR games and services to the people of Reykjavík. One particularly noteworthy service, save their collection of VR titles, is the ability to plan your trip in Iceland using a fully-immersive Google Earth. Reykjavik City HI Hostel Photo From: Reykjavík City Hostel . Reykjavík City HI Hostel, a sub-branch of Hostelling International, is located close to Reykjavík Campground, which is itself adjacent to the highly popular sports centre and stadium, Laugardalsvöllur. Among others places in the area to visit are Reykjavík's ice rink, gymnasium and botanical gardens. Roughly twenty minute walk from the downtown area, this hostel is not as close to some of the other establishments mentioned but is within easy access to the city's bus routes. Still, one of the hostel's biggest charms is the very fact that it sits a little way out of town, allowing travellers to experience quieter, more residential areas of the city that would otherwise be unexplored. See Also: Where to Stay in Iceland . The hostel has all of the amenities any traveller could ask for, making staying here as easy as an experience can be. There's laundry, a game's room, a self-catering kitchen, a cafe/bar, bicycle rental, lockers and a BBQ, not to mention the variety of room options available. Bus Hostel Photo From: Reykjavik Bus Hostel . The creatively minded will find Bus Hostel to be one of the most suited establishments in Iceland. The walls are decked out with an eclectic range of artwork, adding a real homely feel to the hostel's lounge-like interior, complimented further with the inclusion of a well-stocked bar and cafe. This is all despite the famed "Ugly Wall", as photopraphed above. One can also see the very last McDonald's hamburger sold in Iceland, an event that occurred in 2009 after the corporate food giant pulled out of the country following the banking crisis. You can check up on said burger, wherever you are in the world, by checking here ; a constant, captivating recording of the burger's condition... ...and just think, this is the closest most Icelanders come to ever tucking into a Maccy Dees on their home soil. As much a blessing as it is shame... (I, for one, quite like snacking on MD's beef...) See Also: Nightlife in Reykjavík . One major point to be aware of at Bus Hostel; this is 'sleeping bag' accommodation, meaning that duvets are not included in the price. Guests are invited to bring their own or can rent one for 1000 ISK. The same applies to towels, which can be rented from the reception for a one time fee of 500 ISK. Hostel B47 Photo From: Hostel B47 . Hostel B47 offers a PIN check-in, meaning instant access to your dorm room without the hassles associated with card keys. After an online booking, you will receive confirmation, then hang around until a few days before your holiday, at which point Hostel B47 will send you over your personal PIN number. See Also: Top 10 Things to Do in Reykjavik . This means you won't have to waste your valuable holiday time waiting at the reception but can instead unpack and start moving right away. This is just one of the ways that Hostel B47 has distinguished itself from the competition. Another positive of the Hostel B47 is its artistically designed hallways, with certain rooms taking on a specific theme, be it as broad as ‘music’ or as tight as ‘The Lord of the Rings’. These creative wall murals certainly do make staying at the hostel B47 an aesthetic pleasure. Feel free to check out the establishment on Google Maps, as created by the staff at the Hostel B47. Through the above street view, you can actually walk around the hostel, providing the absolute best insight into what's in store before your arrival. Reykjavik Hostel Village Photo From: Reykjavik Hostel Village . Within an easy walking distance of both downtown and BSI, the city's main bus terminal, Reykjavík Hostel Village is a handy economical option for those travellers looking to avoid spending recklessly on transportation. Reykjavík Hostel Village is a family-run business, sporting 45 rooms over 3 residential homes. This homely business model already sets the hostel apart from others across the city that tend to be owned by large corporations. Though it should be pointed out, travellers looking to avoid larger chains could also look into the city's AirBnB market, which offers rooms and apartments (and, in one particular case, the back of a van) as temporary accommodation from private sellers. However, AirBnB housing is also driving up the rental price for locals and driving some locals out of the centre of the city. Types of room vary; dorm rooms kitted out with bunk beds can house up to 5 people, while more expensive options, such as a full apartment, are better suited to couples who are worried less about their expenditure. The rooms designed for 2 people come equipped with a decent dose of amenities, including a bar-sized fridge, electric kettle, tea and coffee, wardrobe and night table. Reykjavik Downtown HI Hostel Photo From: Reykjavík Downtown Hostel . Situated within walking distance of Reykavík's picturesque Old Harbour, Reykjavík Downtown HI Hostel is right to consider it a "boutique" hostel. This fashionable area of town boasts some of the city's finest restaurants and bars and is in close walking distance to such museums as Whales of Iceland and the Saga Museum. Like it's counterpart at Laugardalur, Reykjavík Downtown HI Hostel is eco-certified, providing free wi-fi and bed linen, as well as accommodation options offering shared or private bathrooms. They do not, however, include towels. There is a recreational room where travellers can meet up to enjoy socialising over books, films and games, and a computer is free to use in the main lobby. Each day, the hostel serves an organic breakfast, and fairtrade coffee can be grabbed at the bar anytime. In 2015, the hostel was voted the best Hostelling International branch in the world, thus guests should consider this to be the exemplary standard of the organisation's standards. Did you enjoy our article, The Top 8 Hostels in Reykjavík? Which hostels grabbed your attention, or perhaps you have a hostel that you'd like to recommend? Make sure to leave your thoughts and queries in the Facebook comments' box below. The Highlands of Iceland | The Ultimate Guide What makes the Icelandic Interior Highlands so beloved by locals and guests alike? What popular attractions can be found in the Highlands, and what activities can be undertaken there? Why can the Highlands only be visited during the summer months? Read on to find out all you need to know about the Highlands of Iceland. See Highlands Tours here. Contents 1 - Introduction to the Icelandic Central Highlands 2 - Landmannalaugar ("The People's Pools") 3 - Thórsmörk (Thor's Valley) 4 - Lakagígar (The Laki Craters) 5 - Eldgjá Canyon 6 - Herðubreið Mountain 7 - Aldeyjarfoss Waterfall 8 - Hekla Volcano 9 - Kerlingarfjöll Mountains 10 - Hveravellir Nature Reserve 11 - Langisjór Lake 12 - Bárðarbunga Volcano Introduction to the Icelandic Central Highlands The Interior Central Highlands, known as 'Hálendið' to locals, sit 400–500 metres (1300–1600 feet) above sea level, their domineering mountain peaks piercing into the clouds, their colourful rhyolite hillsides inspiring all that see them. Steam rises from the region's vast array of geothermal hot spots, and ancient rivers intercut the landscape with decorative ease. Yes, without doubt, the Highlands are a place of beauty, mystery and drama, an area rich in natural delights, hiking trails and incredible scenery. See Also: Top 5 Places to Visit in the Highlands of Iceland . With no permanent inhabitants—save, perhaps, the odd Arctic Fox—no shops, and no tarmacked roads, the Highlands are as stunning as they are inhospitable, taking on an unwelcoming shine during winter, given the ferocity of wind here, and the sheer amount of snowfall. If visiting the Highlands in winter wasn't already impossible, it would be unbelievably reckless, an affront to respecting Iceland's nature and one's own safety. In short; don't even try it! Not only do the Icelandic Highlands contain three of the country's biggest glaciers ( Vatnajökull , being the biggest, Hofsjökull in the centre, and, of course, Langjökull ) it also holds its highest peak, Hvannadalshnúkur . See Also: Hiking Tours in Iceland . South of the glacier, visitors will experience the Highlands as a plethora of colourful tuff mountains, whilst to their North, vegetation begins to subside for black volcanic rock and dark layers of ice. This, hopefully, gives you an idea of the sheer amount of land the Highlands cover, in total 40,000 square km (15,444 square miles). Photo from Hálendið . In fact, there is a local petition to turn the entirety of the Icelandic Highlands into one enormous National Park. Currently, 35% of the area, or 14,000 square km, are protected as a National Park or Nature Reserves. The largest one being Vatnajökull National Park, but other large Nature Reserves include Þjórsárver, Guðlaugstungur and Fjallabak. With 10 glaciers, more than 15 geothermal areas, dozens of active volcanoes, hundreds of lakes, numerous craters, deserts and stunning gorges it would be impossible to cover all the natural beauty there is to be seen in one article, or in one trip. So you'll only find some of the most noteworthy attractions here. A word of advice, the Icelandic Highlands can only be visited in the summertime, and most roads leading to them are only open from June, or perhaps even early July. Be sure to check road conditions on Iceland's Road Website before planning a trip. Also note that a 4WD car is necessary to reach the Highlands, as you'll mostly be driving on gravel roads, so-called F Roads, and may need to cross some unbridged rivers in some cases. Those that have not crossed unbridged rivers before, are advised to go on tours or with 4WD buses to their destination for a safe arrival. See Also: The Ultimate Guide to Driving in Iceland . Landmannalaugar ("The People's Pools") When most think of the Central Highlands, the first images conjured to the mind are that of Landmannalaugar (“the people’s pools”), an area so named thanks to the vast array of natural hot springs that can be found amidst its kaleidoscopic hillsides and sweeping canyons. This stunning geothermal area with its colourful rhyolite mountains is situated within the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, protected since 1979 due to its immense beauty. Whilst in the past, this area was famed for its usefulness, especially for passing travellers and shepherds who could utilise the pools for defrosting (both the sheep and themselves), today, the area is perhaps best known as Iceland’s premier hiking area, though visitors should always bring a towel and swimsuit with them in case an instinct to bathe arises. See Also: Landmannalaugar & Hekla Volcano Super Jeep Tour. Landmannalaugar contains numerous exciting routes for the avid trekker, including Laugavegur —not to be confused with Reykjavik’s main shopping strip —which is widely considered to be the most scenic hiking route in Iceland. Landmannalaugar sits on the northern end of this famed trail. See Also: Hiking in Iceland . The area paints a stark contrast to Laugahraun lava field, formed in 1477 and located just above it, thanks to its wealth of rhyolite mountains; this amazing rock creates a full spectrum of colour, from pink to green to yellow, and appears to change tone and shade in the passing light. This effect makes Landmannalaugar one of the more unique places in the country, complimented all the more by its isolation and wild character. Thórsmörk (Thor's Valley) Photo From: 2-Day Thorsmork Exploration. Þórsmörk valley is a Nature Reserve nestled directly between three of Iceland's most staggering glaciers: Eyjafjallajökull , Mýrdalsjökull and Tindfjallajökull . As the name suggests, this valley is titled after the Norse God of Thunder, Thor. It certainly lends itself to a similar drama... Due to the valley's sheltered position, Þórsmörk is known to boast a warmer climate than typical of the rest of the country, leading to a blossoming of vegetation, including Birchwood and ferns. The valley makes up the southern half of the Laugavegur hiking route, as well as offers the Fimmvörðuháls hiking trail, leading its trekkers 30 kilometres across the hills that sit at Eyjafjallajökull's base. See Also: Glaciers in Iceland . The 2010 eruptions of Eyjafjallajökull saw a springtime Þórsmörk covered with a thick layer of volcanic ash. These eruptions, of course, are most widely known internationally for shutting down European air traffic, as well as sparking a renaissance in foreign reports mispronouncing the word "Ey-jaf-jalla-jökull". After the eruptions struck, the area needed a number of months in order to restore itself back to its usual glory. Today, Þórsmörk is rightfully considered to be one of the must-see areas of the Central Highlands. See Also Hiking in Thorsmork Valley | Super Jeep Day Tour . This birch-clad valley with its black rock formations is hard to reach, as visitors need to traverse the ferocious and unbridged Krossá river. First time visitors are advised not to attempt the drive themselves, but fortunately there are regular buses going to Þórsmörk during summertime, as well as a variety of Super Jeep Tours. This is an exceptionally romantic location to visit, and if you're not one for camping, then there is both a glamping option and an indoor sleeping option at a hut available at Volcano Huts. See Also: The Most Romantic Places in Iceland . Lakagígar (The Laki Craters) Wikimedia. Creative Commons. 47Mhg491Vgb. Laki, otherwise referred to as Lakagígar (“the craters of Laki”) is, perhaps, South Iceland ’s most famous volcanic fissure, making up part of the Grímsvötn system and surrounded by picturesque green and black plains. The fissure can be found in close proximity to Kirkjubæjarklaustur village and Eldgjá canyon. Laki’s most infamous and violent eruptions occurred between June 1783 and February 1784. The resulting outcome could not have been more horrifying. See Also: The History of Iceland. 50% of the island’s livestock perished under the ash clouds, leading to a famine that would eventually kill one-quarter of the Icelandic population, the lava flow having decimated over twenty villages. During this eight-month period, Laki ejected 42 billion tons of basalt lava. The eruptions even had consequences in other parts of the world. Given the fact that 120 millions tons of sulphur dioxide were poured into the Northern Hemisphere, global temperatures dropped significantly. This caused a change in the monsoon seasons of Africa and India, as well as crop failure across Europe. Many consider the Laki eruptions to have been the catalyst for the French Revolution of 1789. English naturalist, Gilbert White, wrote of the time in his personal journals, “ By my journal I find that I had noticed this strange occurrence from June 23 to July 20 inclusive, during which period the wind varied to every quarter without making any alteration in the air. Wikimedia. Creative Commons. Credit: Chmee2/Valtameri. See Also: Witchcraft and Sorcery in Iceland . The sun, at noon, looked as blank as a clouded moon, and shed a rust-coloured ferruginous light on the ground, and floors of rooms; but was particularly lurid and blood-coloured at rising and setting. All the time the heat was so intense that butchers' meat could hardly be eaten on the day after it was killed; and the flies swarmed so in the lanes and hedges that they rendered the horses half frantic, and riding irksome [...] ” Photo from Sightseeing Flight Over Laki Craters, Glaciers and Highlands . However nowadays there's no signs of volcanic activity in the area, and Laki Craters became a Nature Reserve in 1971. If you visit this spectacular region you can admire a 25km long row of moss covered craters, where the bright green moss is in stark contrast to the jet black craters and lava field. As the roads to reach Laki craters are especially rough to traverse, then an easier way to see this natural phenomenon is to do so from air. Driving yourself definitely requires a 4WD car, and then you can explore on foot. Eldgjá Canyon Wikimedia. Creative Commons. Credit: Borvan53. Eldgjá is the largest volcanic canyon in the world and can be located directly between the village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur and the hiking paradise that is Landmannalaugar. Stretching an incredible 40 kilometres, Eldgjá is 270 metres at its deepest, and 400 metres at its widest. The canyon was discovered by Icelandic geologist and geographer, Þorvaldur Thoroddsen , a man famed for his passionate academic excursions into the wilds of Iceland's nature. See Also: Top 10 Beautiful Waterfalls of Iceland. Inside of the chasm, guests can look upon the waterfall Ófærufoss . Ófærufoss once had a natural rock bridge that spanned the full falls, making the site appear as though it had been plucked straight out of the pages of fantasy. Today, the bridge has eroded away due to excess glacial flooding. Wikimedia. Creative Commons. Credit: Roger Goodman. In March 2018, a group of medieval researchers from the University of Cambridge came up with the hypothesis the Icelandic poem, Völuspá , was in fact written about the 939 AD eruption of Eldgjá. Given the poems visceral imagery and dramatic, descriptive storytelling, it is thought visions of this eruption were invoked in order to speed up Iceland's transformation from a Pagan to a Christian country. Herðubreið Mountain Wikimedia. Creative Commons. Credit: Heidi Soosalu . The year 2002 saw Herðubreið voted Iceland's 'National Mountain'. Because of its distance from the populace in contrast to say, Mount Esjan , which sits directly overlooking the capital city, it is something of a testament to Herðubreið's beauty that it has won such a title. Well, nothing less fits for what is colloquially referred to as " The Queen of Icelandic Mountains. " See Also: Best Attractions by the Ring Road of Iceland. Herðubreið (meaning 'Shoulder Wide') is a table-top mountain, known in Icelandic as "Stapi", and summits at an impressive 1682 metres (5518 ft). Its height is made all the more awe-inspiring by its flat surroundings, the empty lava fields of Ódáðahraun, that truly help to present the mountain in all its natural grandeur. See Also: Mountains in Iceland . Aldeyjarfoss Waterfall Photo From: Aldeyjarfoss | North Iceland Off-Road Waterfalls Tour. Dropping 20 metres from the Skjálfandafljót river, Aldeyjarfoss is one of the Highlands' most beautiful waterfalls. It is particularly distinguished for the giant basalt columns that surround the cascading water, as well as the white shade of the water itself. These basalt columns, typical of many waterfalls around Iceland, have done much to artistically inspire some of Iceland's most iconic architecture, including the two churches Hallgrímskirkja, in Reykjavik, and Akureyrarkirkja, in the "Capital of the North", Akureyri . As is clearly visible from the above video, Aldeyjarfoss is particularly beloved by the world's kayakers, thanks in large part due to the fact that the waterfall once took centre stage for the longest-free fall in a kayak, as recorded by Guinness World Records. The reason why the waterfall is considered infamous is due to the number of injuries sustained by kayakers attempting the free-fall. These characteristics of Aldeyjarfoss make it a true photographic gem; because of the waterfall's narrow opening and its large, circular basin, it's as though this feature has been ripped straight out of the pages of fantasy. Hekla Volcano Wikimedia. Creative Commons. Credit: Sverrir Thorolfsson. In Iceland, Hekla is sometimes referred to as "the entry to hell” or even hell itself, which gives some idea as to this volcano’s menacing influence over the preceding centuries. Those living in the middle-ages, in fact, considered the volcano to be the underworld's entrance, referenced in such literature as Herman Melville's Moby Dick, William's Blake poem Winter, and in the Icelandic Symphony, Hekla OP 52 , considered one of the loudest compositions in Classical Music. See Also: Volcanoes in Iceland . Since the initial settlement period, approximately around 870 AD, Hekla has erupted over twenty times, causing untold devastation to development in Iceland, as well as cementing an ever-permeating fear that this giant may soon rumble again. Hekla's last eruption occurred in the year 2000, welcoming in the new millennium with a fiery reminder of its presence. When not immediately threatening the local population, Hekla is utilised as a natural visitor attraction, offering a number of hiking and mountaineering routes, as well as skiing and snowmobiling in the winter months. In other words, Hekla doesn't just have to bring the adventure to you ( ...if we can call an eruption an adventure ), but the adventure can be brought directly to its steep, domineering slopes. Kerlingarfjöll Mountains Kerlingarfjöll is a range of mountains stretching 367 square kilometres through the Interior Central Highlands, known most famously for containing the region's third largest geothermal area, Hveradalir. This bubbling, burning energy points directly to the mountain range's volcanic origins and is further proved by the dark red colouring of its rhyolite stones. See Also: A Fantastic Tour across Iceland from Reykjavík to Akureyri including Hveravellir and Mt. Kerlingarfjöll. Kerlingarfjöll was once known as Iceland's premier summer ski resort, though this project was dismantled in 2000 due to the fact that Iceland's rising temperatures frankly made it unfeasible. There was simply not enough snow. Now, Kerlingarfjöll operates as a Highlands Resort, offering food and accommodation services to those in the area. Not far from Kerlingarfjöll Mountain Resort is the area Hveradalir, where fuming hot springs can be found amidst the glaciers. In order to reach this area, you will begin from the Kerlingarfjöll resort, hiking 4km (2.5 miles) over easy terrain... (crampons are unnecessary for the hike, despite the fact some areas of the trail will be covered with snow. It is highly recommended to wear sturdy hiking shoes and even bring walking poles). Take note that the route is not marked, though the trail is clear. Upon arrival, you will find yourself in one of the most authentic and untouched geothermal activities in Iceland, all surrounded by the Kerlingarfjöll mountains. Alternatively, you can drive for about 10-15 minutes to Hveradalir, and go for shorter hikes in the area there. As of March 2017, the Icelandic media reported that the mountain range was to become an officially protected Nature Reserve, as managed by the state. This was an enormous victory for Icelandic environmentalists and nature lovers, given previous plans to utilise the area's geothermal energy into a new power plant. You can read more about some of the issues facing Icelandic nature in our articles: Iceland's Troubled Environment , Sustainable Tourism in Iceland and Rivers For Sale | The Future of Iceland's Water Systems. Hveravellir Nature Reserve Considered to be one of the great wilderness reserves left on earth, Hveravellir offers stunning landscapes and fascinating examples of geothermal energy. Hveravellir translates to “Hot Spring Fields” , though is widely referred to as an “ oasis ” in the Highlands. Hveravellir is found between the glaciers, Langjökull and Hofsjökull , its borders extending up the foothills of the former. An ancient route can be traced going through the area, dating back to the year 900; this road is known as Kjalvegur. As one of the country's largest geothermal areas, Hveravellir truly provides a wealth of hot springs, some of which can be relaxed in, others that require your appreciation from a safe distance. When we talk of steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud cauldrons and hot springs, there really can be no better place in Iceland, save perhaps Haukadalur , to see such energy at work. See Also: Things That Can Kill You in Iceland . Want to see the Blue Hot Spring (Bláihver), the Green Hot Spring (Grænihver) or the Red Hot Spring (Rauðihver), they're all found here. Along with Beautiful Hot Spring (Fagrihver) and Old Beautiful Hot Spring (Gamli Fagrihver). Wikimedia. Creative Commons. Credit: Andreas Tille. The oldest descriptions of Hveravellir can be dated back to the year 1752 after it was recorded in the travelogues of Eggert Ólafsson and Bjarni Pálsson. These two travellers were also responsible for naming the hot spring, Öskurhóll, as “The Roaring Mound” due to the whistling sound it made. Wikimedia. Creative Commons. Credit: Smiley.toerist. At Hveravellir, there is a hot pool located right beside the visitor’s centre. This hot pool makes for a fantastic and civilised stop for some bathing, measuring out at 8 - 39 degrees C, and was first constructed in 1950. Beware of sitting too close to the pool’s input pipe, however, as this gets incredibly hot, and don’t expect any changing facilities… this is Iceland , after all. Located on the edge of a lava field, just over an hour's drive from the gorgeous mountains of Kerlingarfjöll, this geothermal area is one of the best places in Iceland to understand and see first-hand just how this land's volcanic underbelly continues to sculpt the natural environment. See Also: Hveravellir - The Beautiful Oasis in the Highlands of Iceland . Langisjór Lake Wikimedia. Creative Commons. Credit: Gumos. Whilst notoriously difficult to access, Langisjór is, without doubt, one of Iceland's most picturesque lakes, framed on each side by a dazzling line-up of mountains and lush hillsides. Those lucky and organised enough to visit it, however, will find themselves in one of the most scenic locations in the whole of the central Highlands. See Also: The 7 Best Spots for Peace, Quiet & Silence in Iceland. The lake covers 26 square kilometres in total, measuring up to 20 kilometres in length and up to 2 kilometres in width. The lake's ultimate depth is 75 metres. Langisjór can be located on the southwestern border of Vatnajökull National Park . Over recent years, a number of environmental groups in Iceland have expressed their deep concern at government proposals to construct an industrial dam on the lake. The reason for its proposed location is its distance from civilisation, though campaigners worry that by continuing to forgo the sanctity of Iceland's environment for industrial progress, the country will lose one of the essential values it holds so dear; protecting the land . Bárðarbunga Volcano Deeply enclosed within the icy casing Vatnajökull glacier, Bárðarbunga was, until recently, little-known within the pantheon of Icelandic subglacial stratovolcanoes. Something of a surprise, considering Bárðarbunga is Iceland's second largest mountain. Well, that's what one gets for hiding beneath the country's glacier... no one tends to notice you... until you decide to go off. Bárðarbunga volcano put on a good volcanic show when it erupted in August 2014, a volcanic eruption that lasted for 6 months, from the 29th of August 2014 until the 27th of February 2015. Changes in perception came with scientific studies, studies that quickly revealed surrounding tephra layers to have been ejected from Bárðarbunga, rather than another, nearby volcano, as previously believed. Today the area is interesting to visit as visitors can clearly see the brand new lava as it reshaped the landscape only a few years ago. But it's not very accessible and very few people venture there, perhaps until the next eruption takes place! See Also: National Parks in Iceland . Did you enjoy our article about the Icelandic Central Highlands? What attractions are you looking to visit, and if you've already been, what was your favourite? Is there anything crucial from your own experience that you feel we have left out. Make sure to leave your thoughts and queries in the Facebook Comment's box below. The Best Live Music Venues in Iceland Where are the best venues for live music in Iceland? What type of live music is regularly performed in Reykjavík? Read on to find out all there is to know about the best music venues in Iceland. See Also: Music in Iceland and Nightlife in Iceland . Icelanders cherish their reputation as naturally gifted musicians, but just as to exactly where this natural talent comes from is a mystery. Many point to the dominating and open nature here, as well a literary history rich in communal poetry. Others consider it to be a direct result of the long Icelandic winters, forcing its inhabitants inside, close to their instruments, for extended periods of time. What is it they say? " Practise makes perfect." No doubt, it seems to apply to the Icelanders' circumstance. This isolation from the outside, no doubt, requires the Icelandic people to become excellent introverts, nurturing and ever-developing their potential for reflection and creativity. Credit: Kaleo Facebook Official. Truthfully, it is likely an amalgamation of all three reasons. What is without doubt, however, is that when it comes to skilful instrumentation, composition and performance, as related to music, Iceland is internationally recognised as a creative powerhouse. Whether it be Folk, rock n’ roll, hip-hop, techno, reggae, electronica, post-rock; Icelanders indulge in and celebrate their ability to easily flit from one genre to the other, often bringing about entirely new styles and approaches to genre music. See Also: The Björk Saga. By now, the world is rightly aware of this. Breakthrough Icelandic artists such as Björk , Sigur Rós , Kaleo and Of Monsters and Men are the names that first pop to mind as ambassadors of Icelandic music scene, clearly displaying the range of talents, influence and interests to be found here. Whether or not they are in Iceland at any given time is another matter entirely, however. Of course, like anywhere else, Iceland is a hotbed of aspiring musical acts, each vying for stage time on their journey to melodic success. Who knows, perhaps you'll be the one to discover the next big Icelandic act? If you're looking to catch some of the latest Icelandic artists in action, we urge you to do a little background research on the some of the best live music venues to be found in Iceland. Contents 1 - Húrra 2 - Gaukurinn 3 - Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre 4 - Kex Bar and Hostel 5 - Dillon Whiskey Bar 6 - Prikið 7 - Iðnó 8 - Tjarnarbíó 9 - Hannesarholt 10 - The Nordic House 11 - Hard Rock Café 12 - Græni Hatturinn 13 - HOF 14 - The Freezer 15 - Dularfulla búðin Húrra Credit: Húrra Facebook . Húrra , a bar and music venue known for showcasing a wide breadth of talent, will often have a performance of some kind or another on any given night of the week. With so many artists competing for a spot on Húrra's stage, it is no accident that this dark, dank, yet wilfully charming establishment has made the top of the list. Over the last few years, Húrra has hosted stand up comedy nights, book readings, drag performances, movie nights and countless musical events, everything from ambient electronica to screaming death metal, and is thus considered to be one of the staple venues in Iceland's capital. See Also: The Sigur Rós Story | 18 Seconds Before Sunrise . Okay, so the clientele could be described as a little hipster (if one has a penchant for labelling people) but everyone, including the customers, bar and door staff, is generally a pleasure to be around. With ample seating and ample room to dance, Húrra manages to successfully meet what makes both a good bar and a good music venue. Every Monday, Húrra hosts a jazz night; this, over time, has become one of the most popular events in Reykjavík, with the room coming alive with the sound of blaring trumpets, tinkling piano keys and bombastic drums. The event is entirely free, making it an excellent option for a relaxed Monday night down the pub. To top it all off, Húrra has an excellent selection of local beers, further driving home the illusion whilst there that this is, truly, one of those secret venues beloved by the Icelandic Neopolitan. See Also: Of Monsters And Men | A Melodic Odyssey. Gaukurinn Credit: Gaukurinn Facebook. Gaukurinn ("The Cuckoo") is a dim lit, second-floor bar opposite the National Gallery of Iceland ( Listasafn Íslands ). Close to the town's major amenities (namely, its convenience stores and fast food outlets - we are talking late night parties here ), the bar is a fantastic location to begin your night, with shows of different variety often held up to three times a week. See Also: The Drag Scene in Iceland . It serves as a central hub for Iceland’s drag community, BDSM enthusiasts and for the country’s Heavy Metal fan base, managing to maintain and celebrate a unique and endearing balance between these wildly contrasting scenes. In that sense, Gaukurinn might best be described as a rainbow, a plethora of viewpoints and talents, a bar that is very much dedicated to progress and the inter-connectivity of people. See Also: Gay Iceland | All You Need to Know . Regular nights are hosted by these various communities; Drag-Súgur, the Queens of Iceland, split their performances between Drag-Lab (a show for aspiring drag kings and queens, and various holiday shows throughout the year. This high energy, loose-cannon cabaret show sees acts lip-sync, strip down and dance all inhibitions away, leading to parties in the late hour. Recently, the Drag-Súgur spin-off show, " House of Strike ", has also put on performances at Gaukurinn, as well as shows at Húrra, furthering expanding the already popular drag scene in the country. See Also: The Top 10 Festivals in Iceland. Credit: Singer-Songwriter nights . In 2018, the recent edition of regular Singer-Songwriter nights has helped to cement Gaukurinn at the centre of Iceland’s underground music scene. Held twice each month, both experienced performers and newcomers alike have the opportunity to demonstrate their talents in an intimate and welcoming setting. These nights are being run by the Icelandic artist, Dilicus , who recently returned from her first US tour. Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre Ever since its opening concert in 2011, Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre has rightly been considered one of Reykjavík ’s quintessential cultural landmarks. With its glaring, glass-heavy architecture, jutting angles and position on the coast, Harpa has become such a symbol of change and reinvention in Iceland, such an example of Reykjavík’s rapid urban development, it is, in fact, hard to imagine the city before it. See Also: Harpa: Reykjavík's Concert and Conference Hall. This point is proven all the more when you consider the fact that Harpa Concert Hall very nearly did not exist. Originally intended as part of a redevelopment scheme focused on the Austurhöfn area, (then referred to as World Trade Centre Reykjavík), Harpa was to be just one building in a complex of hotels, retail units and restaurants. Construction began in 2007 but was halted as the Icelandic Banking Crisis took hold the next year. Thankfully, with a sudden influx of tourists, Iceland managed to pull itself, somewhat, out of the financial quagmire. It was decided by the government that construction would continue on the half-built concert hall, despite the fact that it would, at that time, be the only construction happening in Iceland. Credit: Falco. Consider, if you will, the difference walking around Iceland's capital today, where construction sites and cranes make up an essential part of the urban landscape. See Also: The Story of Icelandic Cinema . Today, in full completion, Harpa holds four permanent residents; the Iceland Symphony Orchestra, the Iceland Opera, the Reykjavík Big Band and Maximus Musicus, an illustrated series about a musical man who inspires the younger generation of Icelanders to explore and experiment classical music. You will however not only enjoy classical music here, as Harpa is the home for electronic and hip hop music festival Sónar Reykjavík, as well as the host for multiple genres of music, both by local and international visitors. Kex Bar and Hostel Credit: Kex Hostel Facebook. On the front page of Kex Hostel’s website sits a short, seemingly revealing quote; “A gentleman is a man who plays the accordion but doesn’t.” This should be disregarded immediately… not only will you hear accordions and all manner of other instruments, you’ll be exposed to music that challenges even the most tasteful of aficionados. I speak, of course, of bebop, swing and boogie-woogie. I talk of the elusive, mysterious devil music that is Jazz. See Also : Reykjavik Folk Festival 2018 . Despite the fact that Kex is open as to the type of musical artists who play there, it seems that jazz music is closest to the patrons’ hearts, with a weekly show held there each Tuesday evening. Kex Hostel has long been partnered with Seattle based radio station, KEXP, famed for their intimate video series of live musical artists. For Reykjavík based artists, there could be no better backdrop; the hostel is decorated with dusty books, large wall maps and creeping green ferns, creating a little slice of creative heaven right there on the bar’s floor. Dillon Whiskey Bar Credit: Dillon Facebook. As Iceland’s premier whiskey bar, there really is no other location other than Dillon that is quite so suited to a weekly Blues Jam. If you're a fan of blues, you better find yourself here; nowhere else in the country can match it for the sheer ambience. Nestled upstairs in Dillon’s intimate, wood cabin interior, lovers of the twanging guitar congregate together, squeezing in as the house band begins to fit and squeeze itself into one, sultry corner of the room. See Also: Happy Hour | Reykjavik's Cheapest Bars . As the lights dim, the room comes alive with the boozy, dusky sounds of Americana swamp music. Feet begin to stomp, beer glasses are slammed rhythmically on the table, and for two hours a week, the very best of Iceland’s blues musicians own the room. Aside from the music, of course, Dillon boasts a fantastic selection of whiskeys, including the authentically Icelandic liquor, Floki. Aside from whiskey, there is also a great selection of local beers, providing everything you'll need for a fun, muggy night out down the saloon. Prikið Credit: Prikið Facebook. Prikið is one of Iceland's bars, having served customers for nearly 60 years. Tight, musky and enclosed, with a bar space that takes up most of the building's lower level, Prikið is a favourite amongst locals thanks to its insider ambience, reputation for good music and its unique place in the city's history. See Also: Hip Hop and Rap in Iceland. Lovers of hip hop, grime and cloud rap will quickly find Prikið to exceed their expectations. Frankly, anyone who's anyone in the Icelandic rap game has, at one time or another, demonstrated their lyrical mastery or talent behind the drum machine on this very stage, standing within touch distance to a crowd of jumping, hollering music fans. Iðnó Credit: IÐNÓ Facebook. IÐNÓ , a half cultural centre, half cafe/restaurant, sits in a building that dates back all the way to 1897 and is found right beside downtown's charming inner-city pond, Tjörnin. See Also: Tjörnin | The Pond in Reykjavik. With such prize real estate, it is little wonder that IÐNÓ has focused itself on providing a quality experience, be it in their range of quintessential Scandinavia dishes, or in the performances that are held there throughout the year. The building houses an event space on 3 floors, a restaurant, café, coworking space and a music studio. Performances vary greatly, from regular Reykjavík Poetry Brothel events to high school plays, regular tango and salsa dance nights to release concerts and music festivals. This is also a popular venue for wedding ceremonies and conferences, so you can't bet on there being live music daily. It's however well worth a look at their program to see what's going on each day as they have some of Iceland's most interesting artists performing here. Tjarnarbíó Credit: Tjarnarbíó Facebook. Since its construction in 1913, Tjarnarbíó House has taken on a number of different roles, including that of a cinema, ice storage facility and gymnasium. Positioned dead in the centre of town, the building has long been recognised as an architectural staple within the city, a fact made all the more important given its history and variety of uses over the last century. See Also: Kaleo | Way Down We Go. Renovations occurred to the building from 2008 to 2010 in order to make space specifically catered to the performing arts. Although the space functions primarily as a theatre today, the establishment is comprised of a large venue used as a concert hall, cinema, conference centre or theatrical space along with a rehearsal space and a bar. Hannesarholt Credit: Hannesarholt Facebook. Housed in the original 1915 home of Iceland's prime minister, Hannes Hafstein, Hannesarholt was one of the first 15 concrete houses ever built in Iceland's capital city. First opened to the public in February 2013, after going through a number of serious renovations, Hannesarholt is rightfully considered one of the more sophisticated performance venues in the country. Whilst the first floor is now a dedicated restaurant, café and bar space, the building's upper levels and adjacent auditorium are rented for private performances and parties throughout the year. Hannesarholt also runs a small apartment next door which is rented out for visiting musical artists and private travellers. See Also: Art in the Streets of Reykjavik . The building's assembly hall, Hljóðberg, is one of the premier music venues in the capital. One of its greatest draws is that it contains the very best Steinway 211 Grand pianos found in Iceland, a fitting tribute to an establishment that relishes in classical music and composition. Nordic House Credit: The Nordic House Facebook The Nordic House , found just beside the main University of Iceland building, is a cultural centre dedicated to preserving and expanding Scandinavian heritage between the Nordic countries: Iceland, Denmark, Norway and Sweden. The building's harmonious design is the brainchild of Finnish architect, Alvar Aalto, one of his later works. Guests here will be able to see numerous examples of his style throughout, from the curving blue rooftop (made to reflect the profile of the background mountains) to the white tile/wooden interior. Music is just one of the cultural outlets on which the Nordic House focuses on, showcasing examples of Scandinavian music that ranges anywhere from Norwegian Jazz to Balkan Folk Music. See Also: Best of the North | Nordic Culture and Dinner at the Nordic House. Hard Rock Café Credit: Hard Rock Cafe Iceland Facebook A relatively new contribution to Reykjavík’s culinary scene, this industry colossus is, of course, known worldwide for blending music and food in an entertaining, family-friendly way, providing a strange, but an undeniably fun experience of eating a meal whilst feeling backstage at an arena concert. See Also: Icelandic Reggae... Really? Reykjavík's Hard Rock Cafe boasts three stylish floors, each with its own ambience and well-thought design. Be you in the Icelandic capital, or anywhere else around the world, one of the great pleasures of dining in a Hard Rock is the level of detail and care that seems to go into the building's interior decor. Downstairs, one can find the Rock Shop®, perfect for purchasing souvenirs and hard rock collectables, whilst upstairs sees the primary dining area. Credit: Hard Rock Cafe Iceland Facebook 'The Cellar', where the main venue is, will on a routine day seat approximately ninety people for dining. There is also a larger stage where bigger concerts are held, which seats 36 at the bar. When truly enormous musical acts grace the stage, up to 250 people can be fit in the Cafe for the live show. With fantastic American classics, the food here is an equal match to the establishment’s interior decor, classic, with legendary guitar replicas and rock n'roll memorabilia lining the walls. Those who have visited a Hard Rock Cafe before will, I'm sure, find little to no surprise here, save the Icelandic flavour that is brought not only to the establishment's dishes but also its performers. Græni Hatturinn ("The Green Hat") Credit: Græni Hatturinn Facebook. Græni Hatturinn is not just one of the most popular concert venues in Akureyri , but it ranks amongst the best in the entire country. Those looking to experience this intimate, bluesy cellar-venue are recommended to arrive early in order to avoid queuing, and to secure a seat, otherwise expect to stand like everybody else. This place really is that popular. Visiting musicians to Iceland have often claimed that Græni Hatturinn is among their favourite venues, succinctly indicating as to why the venue has lasted so long in a relatively small city. Because Græni Hatturinn is a staple stop on a night out for many Akureyri locals, it has become one with the community, as part of Akureyri as its famed Botanical Gardens and Church. See Also: GUSGUS | The Top 5 Tracks. With a wildly ambitious programme that runs all year, this venue sees local and international acts alike bringing music and culture to Iceland's capital of the north. The venue is found beneath Bláa Kannan café on Akureyri's main high street, Hafnarstræti. HOF Culture and Conference Hall Credit: Menningarhúsið Hof What Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre is to Reykjavík is what HOF is to Akureyri, an architecturally magnificent landmark that demonstrates Iceland's place in the 21st Century. Opened in 2010, HOF meets a number of requirements for Akureyri locals; not only does it boast two large conference halls, but visitors will also find a restaurant and two auditoriums designed specifically for musical performance. The larger of these auditoriums can fit up to 500 people and is built in such a way as to accommodate all heights. The smaller auditorium seats approximately 200 people and is of a flat design, making it disadvantageous for shorter people. HOF was just one of the cultural centres constructed after a 1999 decision by the Icelandic government to expand the arts outside of the capital. Like most iconic buildings in Iceland, the architecture is deeply rooted in Icelandic nature, with many aspects of the cultural centre's exterior being constructed from the Icelandic granite, Stuðlaberg. The Freezer Credit: The Freezer Facebook. The Freezer is both a music venue, theatre and hostel found on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula , an area otherwise referred to as "Iceland in Miniature" thanks to its sheer variety of natural attractions and landscapes. See Also: The Ultimate Guide to Snaefellsnes Peninsula . The Freezer is located in the village of Rif, between Hellissandur and Ólafsvík, and caters to visitors all year round, not just as a means of accommodation, but as a cultural venue, exhibiting numerous events and activities throughout the summer months. These can range from stand up shows, theatre and musical performance to pub quizzes, karaoke and movie screenings. In the past, both acclaimed Icelandic and international artists have played The Freezer, including the likes of MAMMÚT, Digvalley, Kaleo and the jumping electronic duo, GusGus. Alongside musical acts, The Freezer boasts its very own professional theatre, producing a variety of shows in English each year. Many of these performances are inspired by the sagas and folktales of West Iceland, in an attempt to bring this rich history alive in front of the younger generations. Performances are held in a renovated fish processing factory, providing an insight into this region's living, breathing history. Dularfulla búðin Credit: Dularfulla búðin Facebook. Dularfulla búðin ("The Mysterious Shop") is Iceland's one and only Steampunk store, coffeehouse/bar and museum, dedicated to bringing this sub-genre of science fiction and design into the hearts and minds of Icelanders across the country. For those of you who are unaware as to the nuances of steampunk culture, imagine a stylistic retro-world, revolving around steam-powered technology, set in the near future. We're talking Victorian-era fashion mixed with mechanical clogs and crossbows. If you've ever played Bioshock, you get the idea... See Also: Vikings and Norse Gods in Iceland . Credit: Dularfulla búðin Facebook. Situated in the town of Akranes and run by steampunk enthusiast, Ingimar Oddsson, himself an accomplished musician, this strange little establishment provides a distinct voice in the pantheon of Icelandic music venues. Ingimar himself provides guests with a short tour of the museum, plays live music, makes a damn fine coffee and even organises the annual Iceland Steampunk Festival. In short, Ingimar is a busy man, but not so busy as to ensure your visit to the Mysterious Shop is a memorable one. Did you enjoy our article about the Best Music Venues in Iceland? Where did you check out during your holiday in Iceland, and were there any particular Icelandic musicians who have stayed with you? Make sure to leave your thoughts and queries in the Facebook comments box below. Airport Transfers in Iceland | Keflavik to Reykjavik What are the different transfer options available between Keflavík International Airport and Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavík? How often do bus transfers leave, and is it possible to book your transfer in advance? Is it recommended to hire a rental car, and how long does the journey take? Read on to find out all you need to know about how to travel between Keflavík International Airport To Reykjavík. Unless you are entirely convinced of the dangers of air travel—in which case, we’ll see you as your ferry docks at Seyðisfjörður —almost all travellers to Iceland will pass through its one major transportation hub, Keflavík International Airport , the only airport of its kind in the country. With tourist numbers on the rise in Iceland each year, Keflavík Airport sees ever-increasing traffic, yet still feels much quieter and calmer than many of its counterparts across the world. Even so, it is always wise to be aware that the airport, whilst still a place of budding excitement or genial reflection, can also be inherently stressful for people... ...you have to check in your bags, keep your passport handy, wait in queues, get frisked by a stranger, handle a difficult toddler, find the right gate, stand in more queues... the last thing you need to worry about on top of all that is successfully transferring from the airport to your accommodation. Thankfully, transferring from Keflavík International Airport is an easy affair, made all the easier by the various transfers available. It is, however, a good idea to get a general understanding of the transfer process in Iceland before your arrival. See Also: Airport Transfer from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík Hotels. Contents 1 - An Introduction to Airport Transfers in Iceland 2 - Renting A Vehicle 3 - Taking a Flybus 4 - Taking a Private Shuttle 5 - Taking Public Transportation An Introduction to Airport Transfers in Iceland Found nestled within the harsh, volcanic fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula , it is almost impossible to imagine Keflavik International’s humble beginnings, first as a solitary landing strip at Garður (a little way north to the current site), then, in 1942, as Patterson Field and Meek Field respectively, a two-runway project by the US Military, and finally, as Naval Air Station Keflavik, under the command of NATO. Today, the airport is run by an enterprise of the Icelandic government, measuring out at 25 km2 (9.7 sq mi) with three runways in total. The airport's main carriers are Wow Air and Icelandair. See Also: Ultimate Guide to Flights to Iceland. Credit: Jeff Hitchcock. Without prior research, it is safe to assume that many prospective travellers to Iceland will be somewhat surprised to find the country's only international airport is found not by its capital, Reykjavík , but 1.7 nautical miles west of its “Capital of Rock ‘n Roll” , Keflavík , a town of just under 16,000 people. Regardless of the close proximity, it is, generally, a rare occurrence that holiday-makers choose to transfer directly to Keflavík. 50 km (31 miles) southwest of the airport is Iceland’s quintessential capital city, Reykjavík, which boasts far more options regarding accommodation, cultural opportunities and tour departures. The journey between the airport and the capital takes approximately forty-five minutes by car. Those who choose to explore the town of Keflavík will often do so on a day when they are tackling the whole of the Reykjanes Peninsula. Thankfully, the journey between Keflavík International Airport and Reykjavík runs through the Reykjanes Peninsula on Road 41, meaning you will gain an immediate insight into this land's rugged and fantastical landscapes. Most passengers can’t help but spend this hour enraptured by Iceland’s majestic introduction; to the right, fields of jet-black lava rock and distant, blue mountain peaks strike an appealing contrast to the vehicle’s left side view, an ever-changing panorama of grizzled coastlines and sleepy fishing settlements. See Also: Maps of Iceland. Many guests, either on their arrival or departure day, choose to visit the world-famous Blue Lagoon Spa , renown for its soothing azure waters, healing silica mud and geothermal energy. It is particularly cherished by those who deal with skin disease (i.e. psoriasis), as the Blue Lagoon Spa operates its own Research facility, examining new ways to treat skin ailments. Of course, the Blue Lagoon is just as much loved by visiting guests who jump at the opportunity to take a dip in one of the country's most iconic attractions. Not only will guests here have the chance to engage in some rejuvenating activities such as getting a face mask or massage, but they can also enjoy some fine dining at the Spa's bistro. The Blue Lagoon is found between both destinations, roughly fifteen minutes from the airport and thirty minutes from the capital, and makes for one of the most popular tourist destinations in Iceland. With the recent addition of a luxury hotel to the Blue Lagoon in 2018, guests here can elongate their stay indefinitely. See Also: The Ultimate Guide to the Blue Lagoon. Appreciating not only the fine landscapes but also the lack of traffic, visitors will find that, by the time they have reached the hotel, their jet lag has almost entirely dissipated—this is particularly true after bathing at the Blue Lagoon, and made all the truer if you boast a private hot tub at your accommodation. Of course, not everyone will be arriving in the same manner, nor intending on the exact same type of holiday, meaning some clarification is needed as to what type of transfers are available. To keep things simple, we'll break down the three major options first. Renting A Vehicle Photo from Reykjanes Tour in Small Group | Optional Drop Off at the Blue Lagoon or Keflavik Airport. Your first option, and perhaps, your likeliest given an extended stay in the country, is to simply drive the route yourself. If you've been planning on renting a car from the get-go, it's more than likely that you will be picking it up and dropping back off at the airport anyway. Rental car operators are by no means few and far between in Iceland. Given the tourism boom, in fact, leasing vehicles has become a profitable business to be in. Big name operators such as Hertz, Budget Car & Van Rental, Europcar and Avis Car Rental can all be found here, and in fact, keep a permanent booth open at Keflavik International Airport. This makes picking up your vehicle upon arrival easy and accessible. You can book Rental Cars here! As a side-note, remember that whatever cars you'll be renting should be fitting the criteria of your interior. For instance, there is no use considering going into the Icelandic Central Highlands if you are not in possession of a 4X4 rental vehicle (or if you are coming in wintertime) and if you're not in ownership of the right insurance. Taking a Flybus Photo from Airport Transfer from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík Hotels. Flybus services, as operated by Grayline and Reykjavik Excursions, are one of the easiest means of getting between the airport and the city, with a scheduled transfer occurring directly after each flight. More often than not, these Flybus transfers will travel to BSI, the main bus terminal in Reykjavik, before splitting the passengers into smaller groups, then taking them individually to their respective hotels. With just one cross-over during this transfer, those considering forsaking their own vehicle this time around will often find this the most efficient and cost-effective option. It is also worth pointing out that BSI is found only a ten-minutes short walk from downtown Reykjavik, where most of the city's hotels can be found. This means, considering the hotel's location, that you may be able to just walk the last leg of the journey yourself. Note that there are some restrictions as to where the buses can drive you in central Reykjavík, so if your hotel is extremely central, you will be dropped off at a nearby location, needing to walk for 1-2 minutes to reach your hotel. See Also: Airport Transfer from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík Hotels . See Also: Airport Transfer from Hotel to Keflavík Airport. Prices for the Flybus vary depending on passenger age, and it is possible to both book in advance and directly upon arrival to Iceland. Adults are charged 3000 ISK if picked up from a hotel, and 2500 ISK if picked up from BSI. Those lucky, youthful travellers between 12 and 17 pay just 50% of the adult fare, whilst children 11 years old and below ride for free. Taking a Private Shuttle Photo from Luxurious Private Airport Transfer | Reykjavik to Keflavik Airport in a new Mercedes Benz V. Granted, this option is not for everybody, but those with the cash, or the inclination to avoid other humans, might opt in for a private shuttle between the airport and the capital. With your own personal driver/guide, tinted windows and a complimentary glass of bubbly, there really could be no more a luxurious way of beginning your trip abroad. Private shuttles offer a level of intimacy and comfort that is, perhaps, not so easily found on more public transportation, and can be picked specifically with vehicle model and size in mind. You will also have the benefit of listening to your driver as he tells you, and you personally, about the history and culture of Iceland. Of course, because it's a private shuttle, you can also choose to entirely ignore them, pulling up the shutter so that you can sit back and enjoy in delirious solitude. See Also: Private Airport Transfer | Reykjavik & Keflavik and Private Airport Transfer | From Reykjavik to Keflavik. Photo from Private Airport Transfer | From Reykjavik to Keflavik. Another great benefit of taking a private shuttle is that, once you meet your driver, your journey is ready to commence. As an added security, they will be following your flight path during the journey, making sure to arrive on time regardless of whether the aircraft arrives early or late. This can sometimes be a problem with the Flybus service, which will often hang on for an extra fifteen / twenty minutes in an attempt to fill up all remaining seats. This can be a little frustrating if you're looking to shoot off as quickly as possible, but, then again, no one wants to leave a holidaymaker behind. Use Public Transportation Another option, though this one no doubt comes with a degree of hassle, is utilising Iceland's public transportation system, Strætó. No doubt, upon a few days in Iceland, you'll instantly recognise these canary yellow buses as they make their routine stops around the country. If you actually take some time to use them, their cleanliness and reliability is also bound to make a lasting impression, no doubt drawing comparisons to the bus systems back home. Those who choose to use these Strætó buses, even for airport transfers or just for travel around the city, should be aware that it is possible to book tickets and schedule journies on the companion mobile application. See Also: Top 10 Apps for Travelling in Iceland. Costing 1800 ISK for a single ticket, Bus 55 does back-and-forth journeys nine times a day, leaving at the following times (be aware that this journey will likely require further transfers to reach your specific accommodation.): Keflavik to BSI, Reykjavik: 06:35, 07:42, 09:55, 13:42, 14:42, 15.42, 16:42, 17:42, 18:42 BSI, Reykjavik to Keflavik: 6:25, 7.57, 8:25, 14:25, 15:25, 16:25, 17:25, 18:25 19:25 However you choose to transfer from the airport to your accommodation is entirely up to you and heavily dependent on the adventures ahead. As mentioned previously, it is possible to arrange this transfer upon arrival in Iceland, though it is highly recommended to do so beforehand. If none of the above options suits you, there is always the option to take a taxi. The taxi fares are the same at any time of day, and around 15-16 thousand ISK for up to 4 people, or around 20 thousand ISK for 5-8 people one way between the airport and a central hotel in Reykjavík (rates from 2018). So taking a taxi is only feasible from a budget perspective if traveling with a large group of people. Alternatively you could try and bag a free ride for yourself from someone with their own rental car. Either way, to avoid the pressures that come with the arrival in a new country, we cannot stress the benefits of our major options enough. Did you find our article about airport transfer options between Keflavik International Airport and Iceland's capital, Reykjavik? Which airport transfer did you utilise when you arrived here and were there any obstacles to your trip? Make sure to leave your thoughts and queries in the Facebook's comments box below. Akureyri | Iceland’s 'Capital of North' What is the history of Iceland’s second largest city and “Capital of the North”, Akureyri? How many people currently live there, and what attractions and activities can be found close by? How does Akureyri culture differentiate itself from its southern neighbour, Reykjavik? Read on to find out all you need to know about the city of Akureyri below. See All Akureyri Tours Here. Contents 1 - An Introduction to Akureyri 2 - The History of Akureyri 2.1 - The Age of Settlement 2.2 - The Growth of Akureyri 3 - Akureyri Today 3.1 - Amenities, Attractions and Activities 4 - Travelling to Akureyri An Introduction to Akureyri Header Photo: Pixabay. Credit: ArvidO. In general, visitors to Iceland roundly focus their attention on the capital city, Reykjavík , located only forty minutes from the country’s one international airport, Keflavík . This makes sense, after all, given that Reykjavík is the beating heart of Icelandic culture and society, boasting more hotels, restaurants, bars, tour opportunities and cultural landmarks than anywhere else in the country. See Also: Top 10 Things to Do in Akureyri. Many people, including Icelanders— particularly those cheeky 101 locals —are quick to jokingly claim there are no other major urban settlements in Iceland besides Reykjavík… quite willingly, many guests choose to accept this coy approach to humour, readily organising their holiday around the capital alone whilst quietly dismissing the quintessential charms of Iceland’s smaller settlements. Whilst this is by no means a bad idea if you’re only visiting a few days, it does cut off an enormous chunk of the potential vacation experience for those planning to spend an extended period of time here. For those with a week or two in Iceland, taking to the road is a must, with a wealth of natural attractions, cute fishing villages and awe-inspiring sights all waiting for those who venture out to unravel them. Among these, a crucial stop is what is colloquially called “Iceland's Capital of the North”, Akureyri, the island’s second-largest city. In truth, calling Akureyri “Iceland’s second largest city” is something of a misdemeanour seemings as the population is only around 19,000 people. This would make the city more like a town if it were anywhere else in the world, but given that we’re in Iceland, the classification fits. What does size matter, eh? Flickr. Credit: Fernando Garcia. Despite this small population, Akureyri boasts a fantastic culture all unto itself. The city is home to numerous museums, art exhibitions, designated green spaces and, of course, a local residence that shares much of the same passions and interests as Icelanders across the country. See Also: Sustainable Tourism in Iceland. But how did Akureyri become the second go-to location in Iceland? What are the city’s origins, and what explains its patient growth over the last century? To uncover these secrets, we must first dip into the fascinating history of this young, yet vibrant city. The History of Akureyri Wikimedia. Creative Commons. Credit: Internet Archive Book Images. As with almost all Icelandic history, we must look to the Ancient Sagas, (Icelandic: Íslendingasögur ) for any real, contextual understanding. These rich, literary records are, without doubt, the greatest single source for revealing the nature of Icelanders, where they came from and what influences and events helped to shape their culture. The sagas of the Icelanders are unrivalled in human civilisation for their scope, accuracy and archival value. They are, quite rightfully, one of the greatest points of pride for the Icelandic nation. The Age of Settlement From the Landnámabók , we know that the area’s ‘founding’ settler was an Irish Viking by the name of Helgi Magri Eyvindarson . Helgi’s story is a fascinating one; born to an Irish mother and a Norse father, Helgi had been sent to live southwest, in foster care as a child. When his parents went to retrieve him, they found the young boy so starved, they could barely recognise him. Thus, his nickname then on was “Helgi the Slim” or “Helgi the Lean”. Wikimedia. Creative Commons. Credit: Bjarki Sigursveinsson. Helgi Magri Eyvindarson set out to Iceland with his wife, Thorunn Hyrna, in 890 AD, landing within Eyjafjörður . Exactly why it was that he did is still a mystery, though many have surmised that it may have been due to his unique blend of Christian and Norse faiths. See Also: The Most Infamous Icelanders of History. There is no question that Helgi was a devout Christian, but upon taking to sea voyages, he was known to put his faith into Thor, the Norse God of Thunder . Whether this has any relevance as to his reasons for travelling to Iceland, we will likely never know for sure. What is known, however, is that one of his daughters was named after the Norse deity, long after Helgi adopted the Christian faith. We also know that he chose his "landing spot" in Iceland in the traditional Norse manner, by throwing two wooden pillars overboard (these are said to have landed roughly 7 kilometres away from Akureyri's current location). This mix of practices seems to imply that the Christianisation of Iceland was not as black-and-white as people tend to believe, but was often, in fact, operating under a strange union, comprised of two very different, ancient belief systems. See Also: How To Travel in Iceland | The Top 5 Do's and Don'ts . Flickr. Hans Splinter. Helgi was said to have spent his first winter at Hámundarstaðir, far west of modern-day Akureyri, before setting out to fully discover the island’s northern regions. In time, Helgi had lit a number of fires between Siglunes and Reynisnes, signifying the ejection of evil spirits and the establishment of a codified estate. The sun, fire and heat were all thought to be weapons used against supernatural creatures. Trolls, elves and hidden folk have long been a part of the fabric of Icelandic society. See Also: Folklore in Iceland. Given the sheer amount of land accumulated, Helgi’s estate would go on to be one of the biggest at that time. According to the sagas, his farmstead was named Kristna (Christ's Peninsula). He is then rightfully regarded as Akureyri’s founding father; he is to the north what Ingólfur Arnarson is to Iceland’s capital, Reykjavík. Exactly when the name "Akureyri" began its popular usage, no one is exactly sure. And whilst a number of different theories exist attempting to justify the name, there is only one that is widely agreed upon; the city's name can be translated roughly to "Field Sand-spit," in likely reference to a sheltered cornfield that once existed in the area's narrow gullies. The Growth of Akureyri Permanent settlement did not begin in Akureyri until 1778, though the community is mentioned on a number of occasions before that. Take, for example, court documents dated to 1562 listing a woman from Akureyri convicted of adultery. According to these records, the woman was not in possession of a marriage license after being caught in bed with a young chap, something of a scandal given the time period. Wikimedia. Creative Commons. Credit: NN. In the mid-16th century, the only buildings in Akureyri were shops and warehouses owned by transient Danish merchants. During that time, Iceland was an official territory of the Danish Monarchy, and Icelanders were subject to the crown. Whilst this did lead to conflicting attitudes, it undeniably aided the flow of trade, communication and technology across Iceland's many regions. Akureyri was established as an official trading post in 1602. Unlike the natives, however, these merchants would not stay in the Akureyri area all year, returning home to their native Denmark each winter. This, naturally, was an obstacle to growth in the town, which is, perhaps, one of the major reasons as to why Akureyri took quite so long to prosper. See Also: Top 12 Things To Do In Iceland . Throughout the following 200 years, Akureyri was largely utilised as a base camp for these trading Danes, in part thanks to the advantageous conditions of the settlement’s large, natural harbour. Even so, a sustainable life in Akureyri was still a while away; it would take a focused effort on developing the region's potential for agriculture before any tangible changes could be seen. The first house was built in 1778 after the Danish Merchants were permitted to reside in Akureyri over the winter. Wikimedia. Creative Commons. Credit: Sigfús Eymundsson (1837 - 1911). See Also: 10 Reasons Icelanders are Proud of Iceland . By 1778, the then King of Denmark (and, by default, Iceland) had turned his attention to improving living conditions within his territories. Akureyri received its municipal charter in 1786, thus making it an officially recognised settlement. Around this time, the Danish Merchants began to introduce farming techniques in order to maximise the region's fertile soil. By 1800, the Icelanders were successfully harvesting potato crops, something that had been seemingly impossible only a few years beforehand. Unfortunately for the King’s intentions, Akureyri’s population growth came to a shattering halt at 12 people in the following years. The Danish Monarchy considered this a disappointing outcome, and so consequently revoked the settlement’s municipal charter in 1836. Wikimedia. Creative Commons. Credit: Cornell University Library. Once again, Akureyri was to be little more than an 'unofficial' outpost, that was until 1862 when the charter was reinstated. In other words, it seems Akureyri’s history can be characterised by those in power flip-flopping over whether the settlement had any real future potential. From 1862, Akureyri's growth spurt truly began. Agriculture in the surrounding area helped to draw workers and their families, becoming an essential contributor to the economy alongside fishing, fish processing and trade. See Also: International Relations of Iceland. The Eyjafjörður Co-operative Society, an assembly of local farmers and traders, became a driving force for growth in the town given their fierce negotiations with Danish Merchants. This made living and working in Akureyri more feasible for many people, especially considering that agricultural and fishing industries were on the rise. By 1900, the town's population was an impressive 1370 people. Even so, this was early days in the Akureyri's development, and the lack of modern amenities, even by the standard of the day, would have made the settlement a challenging place to live. Wikimedia. Creative Commons. Credit: British Library. This is, perhaps, no better communicated than by the travel writer, Ethel Brilliana Tweedie, who travelled to Akureyri in 1888 with her brother, Vaughan Harley, future husband and two fellow Britons on the SS Camoens, a cargo and passenger ferry that routinely shipped between the UK and Iceland. Visiting Iceland was considered something of a robust, challenging and exotic thing to do in the later 19th Century, where the trend was more directed towards the likes of fashionable Vienna or Paris. See Also: The Ultimate Guide to Driving in Iceland . At the behest of her father, Ethel was advised to record her experiences in a journal. Ethel wrote of her time here in the book " A Girl's Ride in Iceland ", (causing some controversy upon its release due to the publication's insistence that women be permitted to ride a horse without a side saddle... Scandalous! ). It is also worth noting that an appendix in the book, written by her father, is one of the first poetic tellings of visiting Iceland's impressive geysers. Flickr. Cornell University Library. The following is an extract written upon Ethel's arrival to Akureyri's harbour... "The first thing that struck us on landing was the sad, dejected look of the men and women who surrounded us. There was neither life nor interest depicted on their faces, nothing but stolid indifference. This apathy is no doubt caused by the hard lives these people live, the intense cold they have to endure, and the absence of variety in their every-day existence. The Icelanders enjoy but little sun, and we know ourselves, in its absence, how sombre existence becomes. Their complexions too were very sallow and their deportment struck us as sadly sober." A little harsh but, perhaps, on the money, given the conditions of Akureyri—and, in fact, much of Iceland—at that time. It is little surprise then that it was within the 20th Century, in particular, the years dogged by the horrors of the Second World War, where Akureyri would have its chance at redemption and growth. As has been discussed in our previous articles, History of Iceland and The Icelandic Flag | A Tale of Identity , Iceland’s modernity only arose because of the presence of foreign troops, British, Canadian and American, on their shores. This 'preemptive' invasion, denying Iceland to the Axis Powers, led to an enormous push for modern infrastructure, as well as a cultural shift in the psyche of Icelanders themselves. No longer were they isolated and untouchable; they had been forced onto the world stage for the very first time as an independent nation, responsible for its own affairs. Infrastructure in Iceland had become, for the first time, an economic necessity. Wikimedia. Creative Commons. Hensser H (F/O). During WWII, Akureyri was used as an operating base for the Norwegian-British No. 330 Squadron of the Royal Air Force, who exercised Catalina flying boats and Northrop N3P-Bs from the area. These were used as a vital protection for Allied shipping between Europe and the United States, proving just how strategically important Iceland was to both sides of the conflict. See Also: How Expensive is Iceland? By the end of the Second World War, Akureyri boasted a number of important industries that, by then, had cemented the settlement's importance to the country. Specifically, Akureyri locals had, under the cooperation and banner of the Eyjafjörður Co-operative Society, built up substantial employment sectors in fishing and agriculture, sectors that would only grow in strength as the years went by. Akureyri Today But what of Akureyri now ? How has the city transformed over the last century to rightfully claim it's title as Iceland's northern capital? What does it offer that Iceland's actual capital, Reykjavík, does not? And what unique cultural traits have arisen from this city's rich and fascinating history? Well, with a current population of approximately 19,000 people, Akureyri has managed to set itself aside as one of the Must-Visit destinations in Iceland. A quick glance at any Icelandic travel site will tell you just as much. See Also: Top 10 T hings to Do in Akureyri . This is, in large part, thanks to the country's booming tourism industry, a trend that has allowed Akureyri's powers-that-be to modernise and develop the city's infrastructure. Amongst the most popular tour options here include Whale Watching, hiking and visits to the beautiful and serene Lake Mývatn area. Whale watching is looked upon particularly favourably here, given the sheer abundance of marine species in the neighbouring fjord—there are over twenty different species of cetacean that call Icelandic coastal waters home, with the major sightings being Minke Whales and Humpback Whales. With stunning and eclectic surrounding scenery, a captivating local culture and a wealth of opportunities on offer, Akureyri successfully manages to offer its visitors something entirely unique in the pantheon of desirable Icelandic locations. See Also: History and Culture in Iceland. Pxhere. Amenities, Attractions and Activities One of Akureyri's major draws is the fact that it offers another built-up urban area aside from Reykjavík, something of a rarity in Iceland. Here, visitors can enjoy all of the benefits associated with a modern-day city: a classy coffee culture, a colourful nightlife scene, beautiful street art, world class restaurants, classy hotels and local festivals with a variety of bands, performers and artists forever exhibiting their latest creative efforts. Not to forget their fantastic ski resort in winter and all year round access to one of Iceland's best swimming pools . It is, in short, a hip and happening spot. See Also: Music in Iceland. There is also a wealth of fantastic architectural highlights to be found here. Of these, Akureyrarkirkja , the city's iconic Lutheran Church, is arguably the most impressive, with its tall, imposing pillars, mighty clock face and dramatic staircase. The church was designed by Guðjón Samúelsson , the then State Architect of Iceland, and completed in 1940. Flickr. Credit: Stefán Birgir Stefáns. Guðjón was also responsible for designing Hallgrímskirkja Church in Reykjavík, The University of Iceland and The National Theatre of Iceland, among many other buildings found across the country. As a testimony to the genius of Guðjón's style, upon the invasion of Iceland in 1940, the then-British Commander opted not to seize the University of Iceland building because he considered it " too beautiful ". Other noteworthy buildings worth checking out in Akureyri are Hof Cultural Centre (where you might catch some live music, get information on what's happening in town and grab a bite to eat) and the local theatre that was built in 1906 and to this day still puts on high class theatrical performances. See Also: The Fascinating History of Icelandic Architecture. Many visitors to the north also manage to slip in a trip to the Akureyri Botanical Gardens . The garden is a result of a 1910 committee, the Park Society, which was established by the women of Akureyri as a means of beautifying their young city. The park was opened in 1912, having been granted one hectare of the land by the council, but the society managed to extend this to three hectares by 1953. By 1957, the park was also being utilised for botany purposes. Wikimedia. Creative Commons. Credit: Manfred Morgner During this time, the park was used not only as a place of tranquillity for the locals but also for scientific research, proving that a variety of shrubs, flowers and trees can grow in such close proximity to the Arctic Circle. The Akureyri Botanical Gardens are one of the northernmost botanical gardens in the world. See Also: National Parks in Iceland. That same year, 1957, a plant collection belonging to floral-enthusiast, Jón Rögnvaldsson, was bought, greatly expanding the park's variety of flora (a bust to Jón Rögnvaldsson can be seen in the park today, alongside other major contributors such as Margarethe Schiöth, former chairwoman of the park). There are approximately 430 native Icelandic species of plant to check out at the Botanical Gardens, as well as over 7000 examples of alien species that have managed to grow here (—this, for reasons little known to me, puts one in mind of Jeff Goldblum's signature line, "Life finds a way..."). Without a doubt, the Botanical Gardens is one of the most colourful and rewarding locations to visit in Akureyri, providing a welcome break from the stresses of road travel and holiday itineraries. See Also: Wildlife and Animals in Iceland. There are, naturally, other options for those looking to pace themselves whilst visiting Akureyri. For example, if there is one thing to be said of the northern capital, it is its abundance of museums and galleries, the perfect avocation for those hoping to gain a deeper insight into Iceland's, and Akureyri's, culture and history. Among them are the Akureyri Art Museum (opened 1993, making it one of the city's oldest art establishments,) Akureyri Museum (focused on the city's absorbing story of settlement, growth and development), The Aviation Museum and The Motorcycle Museum of Iceland. See Also: Art Galleries in Reykjavik . Those truly interested in finding out more about the city's history are also advised to take a stroll through Akureyri's "Old Town" where you will see the city's oldest building, Laxdalshús, constructed in 1778, as well as plenty of other examples of the region's architecture. One of Akureyri's great attractions is its stark contrasts between architectural styles, balanced somewhere between modern and traditional Nordic. This makes taking a simple walk in the city a real pleasure. See Also: The 7 Best Spots for Peace, Quiet and Silence in Iceland. Visitors could also make a stop at The Municipal Library , one of Iceland's largest bibliothecas, or even reach out to their inner-child with a short trip to The Toy Museum at Friðbjarnarhús, renowned for its enormous collection of model cars and dolls. Whatever your area of interest or passion, you're sure to find something in Akureyri that manages to meet, if not exceed your expectations. Another point of interest; Akureyri outmatches many of its urban contemporaries thanks to the number of amenities present. Examples would be the city's domestic airport, Akureyrarflugvöllur, or the north's go-to education provider, the University of Akureyri ("Háskólinn á Akureyri "). Institutions such as this indicate just how far Akureyri has come from the days of here today, gone tomorrow traders. See Also: Studying in Iceland Travelling to Akureyri For those looking to visit Akureyri, there are a number of feasible travel options. First, and most obviously, it is advised that your rent your own vehicle whilst in Iceland. This allows you to take the journey—roughly four and a half hour's northward of Reykjavik—at your own pace, as well as giving you the choice as to where and when you make stops enroute. It will also allow you to easily visit some of the natural attractions found nearby to Akureyri, such as Hlíðarfjall Mountain (famous for its thrilling ski resort) or Lake Mývatn. Another option is to take a flight. There are direct flights available from both Reykjavík Domestic Airport and Keflavik International, both of which are offered by Air Iceland. Whilst Akureyri currently only holds a single-runway airport, there are plans in the future to expand the service. Flights from Keflavík leave up to six times a week (though are only intended for those transferring from international flights), whilst flights leave several times a day from Reykjavík Domestic Airport. Both airports offer the service all year round, with flight times taking approximately forty-five minutes. See Also: Ultimate Guide to Flights to Iceland. It is also possible to utilise this country's public transportation system. Bus transfers operated by Strætó and Sterna both make the journey from Reykjavík to Akureyri, though they differ in their routes and seasonal schedules. Strætó operates all year to Akureyri and the surrounding area, taking Route 57 north. Sterna, on the other hand, only operates during the summer months, primarily using Route 60. Did you enjoy our article, Akureyri | Iceland's "Capital of The North"? How did you find your time in Akureyri and what did you get up to? Are there any particular locations or activities you would recommend? Make sure to leave your thoughts and queries in the Facebook comments box below. The Ultimate Guide to Iceland's South Coast What are some of the most popular attractions found on Iceland’s South Coast? What activities can visitors partake in here? How long does it take to travel from the capital, Reykjavík, and is it possible to travel the south all year? Read on to find out all you need to know with this Ultimate Guide to the South Coast of Iceland. See Also: South Coast Tours. Contents - An Introduction to Iceland's South Coast 1 - Reykjadalur Valley 2 - Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands) 3 - Seljalandsfoss Waterfall 4 - Seljavallalaug Outdoor Pool 5 - S ólheimajökull Glacier 6 - US NAVY DC-3 Solheimasandur Plane Wreck 7 - Skógafoss Waterfall 8 - Dyrhólaey Peninsula 9 - Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach 10 - Vík í Mýrdal Village 11 - Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon 12 - Kirkjubæjarklaustur Village 13 - Kirkjugólfið (“The Church Floor”) 14 - Dverghamrar (“Dwarf Cliffs”) 15 - Skaftafell Nature Reserve 16 - Vatnajokull National Park 17 - Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon 18 - Diamond Beach 19 - Höfn í Hornafirði An Introduction To Iceland's South Coast Iceland’s picturesque south coast is among the most popular regions for visitors to the country. It is, after all, home to some of Iceland’s most beloved natural attractions, such as “The Crown Jewel of Iceland” Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and the awe-inspiring Vatnajökull National Park . See Also: 3 Day South Coast Northern Lights, Jokulsarlon Ice Cave, Golden Circle & Glacier Hiking. Those travelling along this strip of scenic coast will be privy to nearly endless dried lava fields, awe-inspiring cliffsides and quintessential fishing villages. To this day, visitors consider South Iceland to be the ideal spot for hiking, paragliding, Super Jeep tours and sightseeing, among other activities. Many people chose to explore the south in different ways, either through guided tours or Self-Drive packages , yet few are disappointed by the plethora of sights, sounds and experiences they uncover here. See Also: Best Attractions by the Ring Road of Iceland. Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon is widely considered the end of the South Coast. Situated four hours and 22 minutes drive away from Iceland’s capital, Reykjavík (on a good day with clear roads), meaning that, without stops, you’ll be driving for nine hours in total if you decide to head there and back in one day. See Also: 2 Day Ice Cave Tour | South Coast Waterfalls & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. This is doable in summertime, though it’s likely you’ll feel pressed for time and will have to skip over some of the other southern attractions. If looking to head out that far, it is recommended to spend a couple of days on the South Coast, making an overnight stop somewhere like Hvolsvöllur or Höfn. For that reason, Höfn is included in this list, although it is a part of Iceland's East . There are also numerous other attractions in the south part of Iceland that aren't a part of the coastline, such as the popular Golden Circle sightseeing route that includes Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall and Geysir geothermal area. See Also: Golden Circle Tours . Following are only the main attractions along Iceland's South Coast, from the westernmost attraction of Reykjadalur valley to the easternmost one of Höfn, but the south of Iceland has so much more to offer. Reykjadalur Valley Photo from Horse Riding in Reykjadalur Valley | Hot Springs Day Tour Translated to “Smoke Valley” but should in fact be "Steam Valley", most people connotate Reykjadalur to the highly-popular, soothing hot river that runs through the area, a result of the region’s geothermal underbelly. The valley, however, should be celebrated in its own right; hillsides of a lush green are intercut with numerous trickling streams and waterfalls, as well as dotted with countless hot pools and geothermal springs. The valley is located beside Hveragerði, a town of approximately 2500 people known for the locals’ friendliness (if you have any trouble finding your way into the valley, somebody will be around to point you in the direction.) Hveragerði is, roughly, a forty minute drive southwest from Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavik. After reaching Hveragerði, visitors will drive straight through the town until they arrive at the gravel road that leads up to Reykjadalur Valley. Cars are parked at the end of this gravel road, from where guests hike for approximately 50-70 minutes until they reach the first areas for bathing. Note that different sections of the river come out at different temperatures, so walk up and down a little to find the most comfortable spot for you. A bus goes to Hveragerði, but not to the parking area from where the hike starts, so the best way to get here is either by renting a car or joining a tour. See Also: Hiking and Bathing in Reykjadalur Geothermal Valley . Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands) Wikimedia. Creative Commons. Credit: Hansueli Krapf. Vestmannaeyjar is both a town and archipelago found off the South Coast of Iceland. The islands are often anglicised as the Westman Islands, alluding to the area's first settlers, Irish monks, or " Men from the west ". All in all, Vestmannaeyjar is comprised of 15 islands, as well as around 30 sea stacks and skerries, and are thought to have formed 10,000-12,000 years ago, making them quite young in geological terms. The largest island, Heimaey , is the only one within the archipelago that is inhabited, currently boasting a population of approximately 4200 people. The other islands are either completely untouched by human hand, or sport a solitary hunting cabin, only taking visitors in the warm summer months. Wikimedia. Creative Commons. Credit: Trabajo Propio. One particular draw that attracts guests to the Westman Islands is its natural biodiversity. Here, you'll find every one of Iceland's seabird species, including Guillemots, Skuas, Arctic Terns, Puffins, Icelandic Gulls and Kittiwakes. Thanks to the area's microclimate, millions of birds nest in the islands' cliff face each spring, departing again at the end of the summer months. Because of the birdlife's importance to the islands, the Atlantic Puffin has been officially adopted as the emblem of Vestmannaeyjar. In order to get to the Westman Islands you can take a ferry (and bring your car if you like) from Landeyjahöfn harbour . Heimaey island is easily walkable however, so it's not necessary to bring your car with you. The trip takes about 35 minutes one way and it's recommended to book in advance. Alternatively you can fly from Bakki airport that's located right next to the harbour (10 minute flight). See Also: Westman Islands Tours . Seljalandsfoss Waterfall Seljalandsfoss waterfall is considered a staple stop on the South Coast sightseeing route, in large part due to the fact that visitors can actually walk behind the cascading water here. This makes the feature particularly beloved by nature photographers who jump at the chance to snapshot the waterfall from behind. See Also: Top 10 Beautiful Waterfalls of Iceland. Standing tall at 60 metres (197 ft) high, the water of Seljalandsfoss originates from the volcanic glacier, Eyjafjallajökull . Eyjafjallajökull is, of course, famous for its 2010 eruption, which simultaneously managed to both shut off European air traffic and instigate the Icelandic tourism boom. Visitors to Seljalandsfoss will often continue north along the trail until they discover Gljúfrabúi , another small waterfall, this time hidden away inside of a gorge in these ancient sea cliffs. Once again, photographers jump at the chance to photograph Gljúfrabúi and its unique surroundings. Seljalandsfoss has featured widely in international film and television. Arguably, the waterfall’s most famous appearances was a waypoint during the first leg of The Amazing Race 6, as well as taking a starring role in the music video for Justin Bieber’s track, “I’ll Show You”. Seljavallalaug Outdoor Pool Credit: Wikimedia, Creative Commons, photo by Johannes Martin. A mere 23 kilometres eastward from Seljalandsfoss waterfall, visitors will stumble across one of the South Coast’s outdoor pools; Seljavallalaug. Seljavallalaug is one of the oldest swimming pools in Iceland, having been constructed in 1923, long before Iceland’s advance into the modern era. Seljavallalaug also once held the title of being Iceland’s largest swimming pool, measuring 10 metres in width and 25 metres in length, but lost the title in 1936. See Also: Best Swimming Pools in Iceland . Still, despite its size and age, Seljavallalaug is free to enter and makes for a worthwhile stop whilst travelling the South Coast. Do note, however, that those choosing to bathe at the pool do so at their own risk, and only should the urge take them. The water is lukewarm at best, as natural hot water trickles down the mountainside that makes up one of the pool's walls. Many visitors pay a little too close attention to the strange green shade the pool water often takes, a result of the algae that grows on the pool’s sides and bottoms. The pool is cleaned once a year. Visitors are required to take all trash with them from the site and leave nothing behind. There are no showers or bathrooms on site, but a small house where visitors can seek shelter to change clothes, and that as well is up to visitors to leave neat and tidy. Getting there requires you to take a left turn off the Ring Road onto road 242 until you come to a parking lot. From the parking lot there's an additional 15-20 minute walk to reach the pool. Solheimajokull Glacier Photo from Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike A short drive along a gravel road on the left hand side of the Ring Road takes you towards Sólheimajökull Glacier. This is the meeting place for anyone that has booked a glacier hike on this impressive glacier, that's a part of the larger Mýrdalsjökull glacier. A glacier hike or a glacier climb should only ever be done with a certified guide, as glaciers are full of dangerous cracks and visitors need to know what they are doing. Everyone partaking in a glacier hike will be provided with crampons, helmets and ice axes, as well as a guide that will lead the group. If you on the other hand aren't looking to go on a hike on the glacier, it's still a beautiful sight to see from a distance. From the parking lot, there's a 15 minute walk to the edge of the glacier tongue, along impressive mountains and the glacier lagoon that nestles in front of it. See Also: Glacier Tours . US NAVY DC-3 Solheimasandur Plane Wreck From: 2 Day South Coast, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Glacier Hike & DC-3 Plane Wreck Tour. For many years, the US Navy DC-3 Plane Wreck sat abandoned to the elements. The result of a fuel failure in 1973, the aircraft crashed into the black sand desert of Sólheimasandur, located between Hvolsvöllur and the fishing village of Vík í Mýrdal. Thankfully, there was no loss of life in the incident. It has sat there ever since, exposed and jagged, creating a stark contrast, not just with its peeling white paint to the dark, flat, volcanic earth of Sólheimasandur, but to its sheer artifice when compared to the open, untouched nature that has become its resting place. See Also: The abandoned DC plane on Sólheimasandur. Given the plane’s presence since the early seventies, and considering that Iceland’s tourism boom did not officially kick off until 2011, some Icelanders are only now beginning to accept that the DC Plane Wreck has become a makeshift visitor attraction in itself. Until fairly recently, the wreckage was considered as something of a mess, if considered at all. It is only with foreign eyes that the wreckage has become a real point of interest. Getting there you will need to put in a bit of effort. The plane can not be seen from the Ring Road, and it's illegal to drive to it. Visitors will have to park their car by the Ring Road, and then start a 45-60 minute walk to reach it (on flat surface). Bicycles are also permitted, that shorten the journey somewhat. The open sands provide no shelter from the unpredictable weather, so dress warmly. See Also: South Coast Elements | Glacier Hike, Lava Caving, DC-3 Plane Wreck & Geothermal Pool . Skogafoss Waterfall Skógafoss is one of the largest waterfalls in Iceland, boasting a drop of 60 metres and a width of 15 metres, and again, acts as one of the major attractions along the South Coast. Visitors to Skógafoss can walk right up to where the cascading water crashes into the ground, making for fantastic photographs. Photos are made even more amazing by the sheer size of the mist and spray clouds constantly formed by the waterfall, creating rainbows in the light. See Also : Top Activities in Iceland for Adrenaline Junkies. Standing at such proximity also allows you to experience the sheer power of this natural feature. Be careful during the winter months, however, as the rocks at the base of Skógafoss often become incredibly icy, making it dangerous to approach. It is also possible to view the waterfall from the top if you ascend the staircase right beside it. Be careful in the winter months, however, as these stairs become laden with snowfall, making accessibility difficult. Because Skógafoss is only found a short distance from Seljalandsfoss, the waterfalls are often paired in travel guides, considered as something like cousins. Like Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss has made numerous appearances in the media, including on History Channel’s ‘Vikings’ and in the film 'The Secret Life of Walter Mitty'. Dyrhólaey Peninsula Dyrhólaey ’s origin story can be traced back to when it was a volcanic island, separate from mainland Iceland, known as “ Cape Portland ”. Today, Dyrhólaey has connected to the rest of the country, becoming a small peninsula unto itself. This promontory is best known for its fantastic views over Iceland’s South Coast, as well as the birdlife that utilises Dyrhólaey’s towering cliff faces and the enormous rock arch that dominates the scene. See Also: Wildlife and Animals in Iceland. Those travelling to Dyrhólaey for the views will be in for a sure treat. To the north, you will be able to Mýrdalsjökull glacier, while to the east and west respectively, you will have views over Reynisdrangar and the southern coastline towards the town of Selfoss. Do note, however, that parts of Dyrhólaey are closed off during May and June in order to leave the nesting birds undisturbed. Guests looking to see birdlife can see a variety of species, including puffins, but be aware of the Arctic Tern who are known to divebomb aggressively when protecting their nests. See Also: Dyrhólaey - The Arch with the Hole . Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach Reynisfjara is a black sand beach, found between Vík í Mýrdal village and Dyrhólaey, roughly 180 kilometres away from Reykjavík. Reynisfjara is an excellent example of the volcanic shorelines that so characterise Iceland’s coasts, making it one of the most popular stop-off points for sightseeing tours along the South Coast. See Also : The 13 Most Enchanting Beaches in Iceland. Here, guests can stand in awe of this ancient and mystic vista, a landscape defined by its distant mountainscapes, towering cliff faces and captivating rock formations. In 1991, National Geographic voted Reynisfjara among the Top 10 most beautiful non-tropical beaches found in the world . Of particular note is the 15-metre high basalt rock stack, Reynisdrangar, which protrudes from the ocean just off the coastline. Over the years, there has been much folklore surrounding Reynisdrangar; some claim it to be the petrified remains of three trolls, frozen solid in the sunlight as they attempted to pull a boat from the water. See Also: Vikings and Norse Gods in Iceland. Others suggest it is the frozen imprint of a long-lost, three-masted ship, whilst another theory suggests Reynisdrangar is all that's left of a frozen troll after a vengeful husband froze them after learning that they’d murdered his wife. Whatever the case, Reynisdrangar is home to a wealth of nesting seabirds including Puffins, Fulmars and Guillemots. Walking along the coast, guests will also observe the hexagonal rock formations that decorate the cliffsides running along the length of Reynisfjara. These basalt columns are known as Garðar and are reminiscent of the Giant’s Causeway in Ireland . Garðar was formed after a historic eruption, where lava cools over time, leading to a process called “columnar jointing”. Once again, a visit here is sure to provide you with a deep insight into Iceland’s geological processes. A word of warning for those looking to travel to Reynisfjara, however. This beach is infamous for being the site of a number of accidents over the years, a fact due to the unpredictable “Sleeper Waves” that flow rapidly up the coast. Those types of waves are often also called "Sneaker Waves" or "Rogue Waves". See Also: Things That Can Kill You in Iceland . These waves are powerful and the currents of Reynisfjara are strong, not to mention that the water is ice cold, meaning that if you’re caught up suddenly in the tide, the odds are immediately against you. Make sure to pay good attention to the warning signs here and keep well away from the shoreline—it might just save your life! Vik i Myrdal Village Vík í Mýrdal is a small coastal village found on Iceland’s South Coast, often utilised as a lunch stop and souvenir shopping destination for those partaking in a sightseeing tour. See Also: The 7 Best Spots for Peace, Quiet & Silence in Iceland. The village is home to approximately 300 people, yet stands as the largest settlement in a 70-kilometre radius. Because of this, Vík í Mýrdal is considered an important staging post and administrative centre between Skógar and the Mýrdalssandur glacial outwash plain . Vík í Mýrdal is located directly south of Mýrdalsjökull glacier, meaning it is at constant threat from Katla volcano , which sits beneath the ice cap. Katla has not erupted since 1918 which, according to scientists, means the chance of a new eruption increases with each day, although it may still take years until the next one takes place. See Also: Glaciers in Iceland. It is thought that Katla’s eruption would cause glacial flooding large enough to completely destroy the town, save for the red-roofed Vík í Mýrdal church which is positioned on a hill higher than the rest of the town. Because of the threat, residents of Vík í Mýrdal regularly hold evacuation drills at the church. Scientists and guests who stay in one of Vík í Mýrdal’s 1400 hotel rooms are warned in advance of the possibility of an eruption. But no eruption has taken place for over 100 years, and while Katla sleeps then visitors to Vík can go on excursions all year round towards Katla volcano and explore natural ice caves found in the glacier that sits on top of it. See Also: Katla Ice Cave Tour | Departure from Vik . Fjadrargljufur Canyon Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon holds a two-kilometre long river in South Iceland, is approximately 100 metres deep, with steep walls and narrow pathways. Fjaðrárgljúfur, notoriously unpronounceable for foreigners, is said as [ Fyath-raor-glyu-fur ]. Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon has changed a lot over the nine thousand years it has existed; today, guests can explore the feature either from the walking path above the canyon or actually inside of it (though this will require some wading). See Also: Rivers in Iceland . The bedrock of Fjaðrárgljúfur is palagonite, dating back to cool periods during the last Ice Age, approximately 2 million years ago. The canyon has taken on its strange and winding shape due to the river Fjaðrá, which begins at the mountain, Geirlandshraun. Visitors are urged to respect the path that winds itself on top of the canyon, as stepping off it damages the delicate grass and moss found there. Kirkjubæjarklaustur Village Wikimedia. Creative Commons. Gino maccanti. Kirkjubæjarklaustur , often known as simply “Klaustur”, is a small hamlet found on Iceland’s South Coast, to the east of Vík í Mýrdal, in the municipality of Skaftárhreppur. This village, with a population of approximately 500 people, is the only location between Vík and Höfn where it is possible to utilise local amenities, including a petrol station, supermarket, post office and bank. See Also: The Historical Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Systrafoss & Systrastapi in South-Iceland. Kirkjubæjarklaustur has a long and important history in Icelandic culture, making it just one of the major reasons as to why a village of such a diminutive size can be so popular amongst tourists. To begin with, it is widely agreed that Kirkjubæjarklaustur was home to Irish Monks long before the Settlement of the Norsemen . Then, in 1186, a convent of Benedictine nuns was to call the village home until the Reformation in the mid-1500s. In ancient times, the village was called “Kirkjubær” (Church Farm), and served as the location where the local pastor delivered his “Fire Sermon”, a prayer that is said to have halted the furious Laki Eruptions in Iceland's Highlands that took place in 1783 and saved the town’s church. Today, visitors can see the 1924 memorial chapel built as a testimony to this incredible event. See Also: The Highlands of Iceland | The Ultimate Guide . Kirkjugólfið (“The Church Floor”) Flickr. Credit: Andrew Bowden. Kirkjugólfið (“The Church Floor”) is an 80 m² square stretch of columnar basalt rock, imprinted in a field just east of Kirkjubæjarklaustur village. Despite this attractions name, Kirkjugólfið is entirely natural, a result of cooling lava flow that becomes contracted then cracks into a series of separate hexagonal columns. Thus, there has never been a church on the site, merely an allusion to one. Despite this, the entire area does have its history deeply rooted in mysticism; it is said that Kirkjubær was so enchanted and sacrosanct to the early Christian settlers that pagans could not set foot there. See Also: Top 9 Museums in Reykjavik. Wikimedia. Creative Common. Credit: Tillea. Legend claims that Irish hermits (Papar) —the earliest settlers to the area—were the ones to lay down this protective spell. One story even states that a young pagan, Hildir Eysteinsson, failed to believe such magic could be possible and therefore attempted to move to Kirkjubær. Upon setting foot on the land, he fell down dead at once. (As a side note, be aware that this enchantment has now, apparently, been lifted. Pagans as well as people of any religion or lack thereof are free to roam Kirkjubær to their heart’s desires.) Dverghamrar (“Dwarf Cliffs”) Credit: Jennifer Boyer. Dverghamrar (“Dwarf Cliffs”) is an area of hexagonal basalt columns found in South Iceland, approximately 10 kilometres east of Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Dverghamrar is a protected national monument. Dverghamrar is an excellent example of how mysterious and puzzling Icelandic nature can be, a fact driven home by the attraction's mythological name. See Also: Folklore in Iceland. According to folklore, Dverghamrar was once the home of dwarves, elves, hidden folk and all other manner of supernatural beings. Not only were they supernatural, but they were also a major part of Icelandic interpretation of Christianity, acting as followers to this new monotheistic religion. Christian "hidden folk" are referred to as "Light Elves" in Icelandic folklore. Flickr. Credit: Stéphanie Perrin. One reason that Icelanders believed this is due to a folktale revolving around a young woman in 1904 who claimed to ethereal singing originating from Dverghamrar, despite the fact she could see the site was empty. Listening closer, she could recognise the song as a Christian hymn, ‘The Father in Heaven’. It is said that Dverghamrar was built by these ethereal creatures, a justified explanation given the lack of scientific understanding on the part of early Icelanders. Just like Kirkjugólfið, modern understanding dictates that the basalt columns were formed from cooling lava that quickly contracted, thus causing deep and distinctive cracks in the rock. See Also: Folklore in Iceland . Skaftafell Nature Reserve Photo from Tour to Skaftafell from Reykjavik. Skaftafell is a preservation area located in the region of Öræfi (“The Wasteland”), southeast Iceland. Skaftafell was once a national park in its own right, having been established in 1967, but as of June 2008, has been incorporated into the enlarged Vatnajökull National Park. See Also: Flying Drones in Iceland | All You Need To Know. Skaftafell was originally inhabited as a farmstead not long after the initial settlement of Iceland and was even the location for a number of administrative meetings between different Chieftains. The Öræfajökull eruption of 1362 decimated the community in its entirety, making the area uninhabitable for long stretches at a time. Hence, the area has been referred to as “ the wasteland ” ever since. Farmsteads continued to be re-established in the area, though each was met with insurmountable challenges, ranging from the infertile soil to frequent glacial flooding and ash clouds from the nearby volcano, Grímsvötn . Farming was finally discontinued in the area in 1988. Today however the region boasts incredible beauty, the country's tallest peak, Hvannadalshnúkur, as well as the country's tallest waterfall, Morsárfoss. There's a stark contrast between the green birch clad fertile ground right next to the enormous Vatnajökull glacier, making this one of Iceland's most popular hiking areas. A short hike from the visitor centre brings people to Svartifoss waterfall, although the most popular hikes are the glacier hikes themselves. Skaftafell boasts a popular camping site, as well as a visitor's centre and a small café. See Also: Skaftafell Tours . Vatnajokull National Park Wikimedia. Creative Commons. Andreas Tille. Vatnajökull is the largest glacier in both Iceland and Europe, with a total surface area of 8,100 km2 and an average width of 400 metres to 600 metres. Vatnajökull reaches a maximum ice width of approximately 1000 metres and boasts over thirty different outlet glaciers, giving you some idea as to the glacier's scope. Vatnajökull National Park covers approximately 11% of the country, blanketing canyons, mountains and even volcanoes, thus proving to be an excellent example as to why Iceland is known as the "Land of Ice and Fire". See Also: Glaciers in Iceland. Some of the island's most active volcanoes currently rest beneath the glacier, including Grímsvötn, Öræfajökull and Bárðarbunga . Scientists expect there to be a high level of volcanic activity in Vatnajökull over the next half-century. Vatnajökull is just one of the three national parks in Iceland, but is, without doubt, the largest, having absorbed both the historical Skaftafell National Park (est. 1967) and Jökulsárgljúfur (est. 1973). The other national parks in the country are Þingvellir National Park, roughly forty minutes northeast from Reykjavík, and Snæfellsjökull National Park. Vatnajökull National Park was established in 2008 in order to protect the area’s eclectic wildlife. See Also: National Parks in Iceland . It is so enormous that the possibilities of things to do within it are countless, however ice caving in winter and glacier hiking all year round are the most popular activities. Most of the park is within the Icelandic Highlands, so in order to reach more remote parts of it a 4WD car is required. See Also: Ice Cave Tours & Lava Trips . Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon has some of the prettiest vistas in Iceland. This is an area of serene beauty characterised by its peaceful icebergs, the curious seal colonies and sweeping views over the ice caps and mountains of Vatnajökull National Park . Upon visiting here, the reasons become evidently clear as to why Jökulsárlón is colloquially titled “ The Crown Jewel of Iceland ”. See Also: Glacier Lagoons in Iceland. Driving here from the capital, Reykjavík, will take approximately four and half hours without stops, meaning a return trip would see you driving for approximately nine hours - but you'll surely want to make several stops along the way. The lagoon is always increasing in size, as it is formed by the glacier calving large chunks of ice into the lagoon. Through global warming this phenomenon is rapidly increasing, and Jökulsárlón is now Iceland's deepest lagoon, and has reached a size of 18 square kilometres from when it first formed around 1934-1935. From the 1970's it has increased fourfold in size. See Also: Iceland’s Troubled Environment . Most visitors choose to spend an evening overnight at accommodation along the South Coast, either at Höfn, Vík í Mýrdal or Hvolsvöllur . With that being said, some do choose to make the trip in a single day, especially during the warm summer months when the Midnight Sun allows for nearly 24 hours of illuminated sightseeing. Just be aware that it's an extensive trip to make in a single day, as there are countless other attractions to be found along the way. If Jökulsárlón is the ‘ Crown Jewel ’, it’s also the ‘ Prize ’, the gold at the end of the winding rainbow we call the Icelandic South Coast. Diamond Beach Only five minutes walk from Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, guests will stumble across the aptly named Diamond Beach, a strip of coastline where icebergs wash up onto the jet-black, volcanic shoreline. See Also: Surfing in Iceland . Diamond Beach is particularly beloved by photographers who relish the opportunity to snapshot the striking contrasts made between the pale blue ice and volcanic black sand. Thanks to the icebergs' natural formation, no photo is ever alike, and the rolling tide presents a fantastic chance to experiment with timelapse, creating fantastic and surreal pictures that perfectly capture the area's unique, ethereal nature. See Also: South Coast, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Glacier Hike & DC-3 Plane Wreck | 2-Day Tour. Höfn í Hornafirði Wikimedia. Creative Commons. Credit: Debivort. Höfn í Hornafirði (often shortened to simply ‘Höfn’) is a fishing village in southeast Iceland, sitting just near the Hornafjörður fjord. Between 1994 and 1998, the village was known officially as Hornafjarðarbær, before taking the name it is known by today, meaning “Harbour”. Today, the village is the second largest urban settlement in southeast Iceland and boasts incredible views over Vatnajökull glacier. The surrounding landscape is characterised by shifting shoals and glacial rivers, with several small islands lying to the east of the village such as Mikley and Krókalátur. Wikimedia. Creative Commons. Credit: Diego Cupolo. As for amenities, Höfn boasts more than most towns of its size (est. population: 2100). For one, the village contains a domestic airport, two banks, four schools, four hairdressers, a supermarket, a flower shop and computer repairs outlet, a gym, a golf course and numerous restaurants and hotels. Of particular note in the village, visitors can experience the Höfn Glacier Museum where, through their wealth of displays, they can learn about Vatnajökull's geology, ecology and history. Guests may also like to pay a trip to Gamlabúð ("Old Shop"), the oldest house in the village still in use today. And unless you're vegetarian or vegan, than you shouldn't visit Höfn without trying their famous langoustine, the specialty of each restaurant in town - there's even a langoustine festival held here each summer. See Also: Top 10 Festivals in Iceland . Höfn í Hornafirði is often utilised for overnight stops for tours travelling along the South Coast, particularly those that travel as far as Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, or for those continuing east, rather than returning west to the capital. See Also: Mountains and Canyons in South-East Iceland . Did you enjoy our article, 'The Ultimate Guide to Iceland's South Coast?' Have you visited Iceland's scenic South Coast, and if so, what was your favourite location? Are there any handy hints that you'd like to share with future travellers to South Iceland? 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Read more 6 Day Self Drive Tour | The Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Explore the best of Iceland on this affordable 6-day self-drive package. This tour takes you... Read more Iceland Summer Vacation | 4 Days, 3 Nights Choose this summer vacation package to experience Iceland in a fun and easy way. The perfect... Read more South Coast Waterfalls and Solheimajokull Glacier Hiking Tour | Medium Difficulty Join this tour to go on a glacier hike and see the South Coast of Iceland. This is the perfect... Read more Viking Sushi Adventure in Breidafjordur Come aboard for a voyage to Iceland's Westfjords. Join a magical cruise that ends with a feast... Read more Northern Lights Hunting I Minibus Tour Hop on board and go hunting for the spectacular Northern Lights. This 3-hour tour is perfect for... Read more Golden Circle Afternoon with Kerið Take a spin around the most famous sites in Iceland on this afternoon Golden Circle! This tour... Read more South Coast Tour | Solheimajokull Glacier Join this tour for a leisurely trip down the beautiful south coast, travelling all the way to... Read more 8 Day Summer Package | Best Attractions Join this summer holiday and enjoy eight days of adventure in Iceland! During a single trip, you... Read more Northern Lights Hunt from Akureyri Hunt for the Northern Lights in their prime location, North Iceland, on this winter tour from... Read more The Lava Tunnel at Raufarholshellir Cave | Departure From Reykjavik Descend into another world on this fascinating tour into Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel, one of... Read more Golden Circle & Horse Riding Day Tour | Classic Icelandic Experiences Mount up to experience the joy of riding the friendly Icelandic horse before you boarding a bus... Read more Golden Circle Super Jeep tour | With snowmobiling on Langjokull Jump aboard this Super Jeep excursion around the most popular sites in Iceland, combined with... Read more Horse Riding Tour from Akureyri Go horseback riding on the sturdy and friendly Icelandic horse in the beautiful nature of North... Read more 1 Hour Horseback Riding Tour From Flúðir in South Iceland Enjoy the classic Icelandic experience of horseback riding through the stunning countryside of... Read more 7 Day Self Drive Tour | The Ring Road of Iceland Make the most of just one week in Iceland on this 7-day, self-drive tour. You'll drive the... Read more Whale Watching | Ólafsvík Come along on an excursion of the marine life of Breiðafjörður Bay. This whale watching tour is... Read more 7 Day Self Drive Tour | South and West Coast & the Golden Circle Hit the road and see all of Iceland's most popular destinations on this... Read more 4 Day Summer Self Drive Tour | The Golden Circle & Vik Go for a whirlwind self-drive tour of Iceland's most fabulous attractions with this short... Read more 4 Day Winter Adventure | Blue Lagoon, the Golden Circle, Snowmobiling & Northern Lights Book this package and enjoy the nature that brought Iceland its fame, together with some winter... Read more 7 Day Guided Winter Tour | Half-Circle of Iceland and Flight back to Reykjavik Jump aboard this seven-day winter minibus tour around Iceland, from Reykjavík to the most iconic... Read more Discovering Langjokull Ice Cave Tunnel & The Whale Fjord Join this tour for a memorable trip to a sprawling farm estate in Húsafell, followed by an... Read more Vatnajokull Glacier Ice Cave Tour | Departure from Jokulsarlon Come along on a fantastic family-friendly Ice Cave tour in Vatnajökull glacier. Those travelling... Read more Family Horseback Riding Tour | From Reykjavik Join this tour for an afternoon of easy riding and fun for the whole family. This tour is for... Read more 9 Day Self Drive Tour | Circle of Iceland & Snaefellsnes Peninsula Embark on a grand adventure encircling Iceland on this amazing self-drive tour. You'll be sure... Read more 9 Day Winter Itinerary | The Complete Iceland Experience Reserve this 9-day package tour to experience all the best attractions Iceland has to offer in... Read more 3 Day Winter Self Drive Tour | Jokulsarlon & Vatnajokull Glacier Ice Cave Jump in your car and make your way down the south coast, where you’ll meet your guide to enter a... Read more Horseback Riding around Skjaldarvik Fjord | Departures from Akureyri Ride a beautiful Icelandic horse on this excursion from Akureyri. Whether it’s your first time... Read more Golden Circle & Green Energy | Unique & Fascinating Minibus Tour Join us for a unique Golden Circle tour with a visit to the geothermal Energy Exhibition at... Read more Waterfalls, Glacier & Black Sand Beach | South Coast Day Tour Come along on this fun-filled day trip to the South Coast of Iceland. On this affordable tour,... Read more 14 Day Self Drive Tour | Circle of Iceland & The Westfjords Book this two-week tour of Iceland’s Ring Road and the Westfjords and experience the very the... Read more Horse Riding & Whale Watching Day Tour Meet the animals of Iceland in two completely different ways with this combo day tour; ride a... Read more 7 Day Summer Package | Go Inside a Volcano & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Book this 7-day nature and adventure package to explore Iceland's magnificent display of ice and... Read more Other interesting articles Top 9 Adventures in Iceland What are the Top 9 Adventures to be had in Iceland? Which activities are available all year round, Read more The Ultimate Guide to the Blue Lagoon What and where is the Blue Lagoon? What makes the Blue Lagoon so special? How is the Blue Lagoon Read more Top 10 Places to Visit in East Iceland What are the top 10 places to visit in East Iceland? 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