Iceland, known as the “Land of Fire and Ice,” is a captivating destination that offers a stunning and otherworldly landscape. While the country’s winter allure is undeniable, Iceland’s summer months reveal an entirely different side. With longer daylight hours, mild temperatures, and a burst of vibrant colors, summer presents a unique opportunity to experience the natural wonders and cultural treasures of this Nordic gem. Here are the five reasons why you should book a trip to Iceland and fall in love with this country as much as I did.
- The Midnight Sun:
One of the most enchanting phenomena of an Icelandic summer is the Midnight Sun. Experience the surreal sensation of being bathed in sunlight 24 hours a day, allowing for endless exploration and adventure. With no darkness to limit your activities, you’ll have ample time to hike, explore volcanic landscapes, visit waterfalls, or even take a dip in geothermal pools at any hour.
- Nature at its Finest:
Iceland’s summer is a time when nature awakens, painting the picturesque landscapes with vibrant hues. I was amazed by everything I saw. From wildflowers to dramatic coastlines, beautiful mountains, and tranquil fjords, the country reveals its true beauty during this season. Explore the iconic South Coast, visit the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, or embark on an amazing hike to the Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River.
- Outdoor Adventures:
Summer in Iceland offers countless of outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts. Embark on thrilling glacier hikes, where you can witness ice caves, crevasses, and stunning blue ice formations. Kayak along glacial lagoons or the wild Westfjords, or try your hand at horseback riding through green valleys and lava fields. For the more daring, rafting down the roaring rivers or exploring lava tubes are sure to provide an adrenaline rush like no other.
- Festivals and Cultural Delights:
Unfortunately, we went a week before the festivals started, so if you can plan to be there to experience it, definitely do it! Iceland’s summer is a time of celebration, with various festivals and cultural events taking place throughout the country. Experience the lively Reykjavik Culture Night, where the city comes alive with music, art, and performances. Witness the vibrant Icelandic music scene at the Secret Solstice Festival or immerse yourself in the captivating folklore and traditions of the Viking Festival in Hafnarfjörður. These events offer a unique opportunity to engage with the locals and embrace the Icelandic culture.
- Hot Springs and Relaxation:
The Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon are two of Iceland’s most enchanting geothermal spas. The Blue Lagoon, situated in a lava field on the Reykjanes Peninsula, is known for its milky blue waters, surrounded by rugged volcanic landscapes. Visitors can indulge in the warm, mineral-rich waters, believed to have healing properties, while enjoying the surreal experience of steam rising from the lagoon’s surface. On the other hand, the recently opened Sky Lagoon (which it was my favorite) located in the capital city of Reykjavik, offers a unique twist to the traditional geothermal spa experience. With its infinity pool design overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the Sky Lagoon provides visitors with breathtaking panoramic views, particularly during the mesmerizing Icelandic sunsets.
OK, SO ARE YOU READY TO PLAN YOUR TRIP TO THIS INCREDIBLE COUNTRY?
I travelled to Iceland for 5 days with a few friends in mid-June 2023. After doing a lot of research of what to see, where to stay and the distance between each place, we were able to do a lot in less than a week. Iceland can be a really expensive country to travel. However, I managed to do this trip very affordable for all the things we did, including accommodations and car rental.
