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❄️ Iceland: One Week in late winter! ❄️

  • kphdesigns
  • Apr 19, 2024
  • 4 min read



When an opportunity to visit Iceland came my way, who could say no to a visit to the land of ice and fire? So, my best friend and I loaded our warmest gear into our bags and headed to Raleigh, NC, for a direct flight on Iceland Air.

Here are a few things I wish I had known when we secured an incredible travel deal, a testament to Iceland Air's value. The airline is very budget (think Frontier), with small seats and problems with the AC on our flight. It was winter, but that plane was small and hot. But, hey, I am on my way to Iceland. The flight was under 6 hours, and I would fly Iceland Air again anytime. If you fly to Europe, the company allows a free layover ( as many days as you like) en route. Now, you have to pay for everything once you land, and it is pricy there, but what an excellent opportunity to include Iceland on your next European trip.

Having just returned from Europe (twice), the thrill of embarking on another adventure was palpable as I boarded the plane. I was eager to immerse myself in a new environment, spending a week exploring it with four exciting tours included in the trip.

What I learned is that Iceland is windy, and the weather truly changes at the drop of a hat. Since part of our trip was impossible, we made do with the areas around Reykjavik. And we love it! Every drop!


So we got to go to The Golden Circle and its Natural Wonders. Iceland's Golden Circle is a must-do itinerary that perfectly blends stunning natural beauty and cultural history. The main attractions include Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall.

  1. Þingvellir National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage site is not only a geological marvel where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, but it also holds historical significance as the location of the world's first parliament, Althing, established in 930 AD. Here, you can swim into the small area between the two tectonic plates; maybe next time!

  2. Geysir Geothermal Area: This area is home to the famous Strokkur Geyser, which erupts every 5-10 minutes, sending boiling water high into the air. This captivating sight gives the area its name, as "geyser" originated from this very place. It seems steam is rising from the earth everywhere along the path to the geyser. And when you finish, get the soup in the restaurant there!

  3. Gullfoss Waterfall: Known as the "Golden Falls," Gullfoss is a powerful and breathtaking double waterfall that cascades down into a rugged canyon, creating rainbows on sunny days. I have never tried to walk against such strong wind here.

The Lagoons: Relaxation Amidst Nature

Iceland is famous for its geothermal pools, where you can soak in warm, mineral-rich waters surrounded by stunning landscapes.

  1. Blue Lagoon: Just 45 minutes from Reykjavík, this iconic lagoon is set in a lava field and is famous for its milky-blue waters rich in silica, algae, and minerals. It's the perfect place to unwind, offering additional in-water massages and luxurious spa treatments. This is on the way from the airport; book the bus to drop you there and recover from that flight in the warm water. Some folks say this is too touristy, but it is a vast place, and I was a tourist. I am happy I went and will be booking from the airport on my next trip if it is open, as lava has recently blocked the road.

  2. Sky Lagoon: A newer addition, the Sky Lagoon is located on the outskirts of Reykjavík and offers a more modern and luxurious experience. With an infinity-edge pool overlooking the North Atlantic, it combines natural beauty with a traditional Icelandic sauna and cold plunge experience. It has a very different feel from the Blue Lagoon, and I am so glad we did both. There was a 20-dollar taxi ride from our hotel to the Sky Lagoon, but some buses cost less.

  3. Secret Lagoon: Located in the village of Flúðir, this is the oldest swimming pool in Iceland. It remains natural, mainly fed by geothermal hot springs. Compared to the more commercialized Blue Lagoon, it offers a more rustic and authentic experience, a quiet retreat with a true Icelandic feel. It is like floating around in a wonderfully warm lake with a soft sand and pebble floor.

Reykjavík and Surroundings

Reykjavík, Iceland's vibrant capital, is where modern Nordic culture meets centuries of history. Highlights include the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Church, the lively Laugavegur Street for shopping and dining, and the Harpa Concert Hall, known for its striking glass façade.

Around Reykjavík, you can explore:

  • Mount Esja: Popular for hiking, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes.

  • Seltjarnarnes Peninsula: Known for the Grótta Lighthouse and beautiful coastal views.

  • The Reykjanes Peninsula: Home to the Bridge Between Continents, where you can walk between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.

All in all, I went to Iceland to see it; I fell in love with it! The people and the beauty of the surroundings—from lush and green to lava fields that may make you question if you were on the moon—all made me fall in love with Iceland. Going back to above, when I said here are a few things I wish I had known, the biggest is just how unique the country and its people are and how fast I would begin plans to return (in summer) to explore the Ring Road. Stay tuned for my 11-day Ring Road Adventure trip!

 
 
 

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