Iceland Roadtrip in Summer

WHY GO? Iceland is known for its breathtaking natural wonders, including waterfalls, glaciers, geysers, and hot springs. Iceland is one of the most geologically active places on earth, with its location on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge resulting in constant volcanic and geothermal activity. This has led to the formation of unique geological features, such as glaciers, hot springs, geysers, and lava fields WHAT ARE SOME OF THE HIGHLIGHTS? Skogafoss is located on the Skoga River in southern Iceland, about 150 km (93 miles) east of Reykjavik. It is 60 meters (197 feet) tall and 25 meters (82 feet) wide, making it one of the largest waterfalls in Iceland. According to legend, a Viking settler named Thrasi hid a treasure chest behind the waterfall, which has never been found. Some locals believe that on sunny days, a rainbow can be seen stretching across the waterfall, indicating the location of the hidden treasure. Visitors can climb up a staircase alongside the waterfall for a breathtaking view from the top. Strokkur Geysir Strokkur is a famous geyser located in the geothermal area of Haukadalur in southwestern Iceland. The Haukadalur valley is known for its geothermal activity, and Strokkur is just one of several geysers in the area. Visitors can see bubbling mud pots, fumaroles, and other geothermal features, as well as enjoy the nearby hot springs and geothermal pools. Strokkur is a hot spring geyser that erupts every few minutes, shooting a column of hot water and steam up to 40 meters (131 feet) into the air. The eruptions can be seen from a safe distance Reynisfjara Beach Reynisfjara Beach is one of the few black sand beaches in the world, created by the erosion of volcanic rock over millions of years. The contrast of the black sand against the white foam of the waves is truly breathtaking and makes for stunning photographs. The beach is also home to impressive basalt columns, created by volcanic activity and formed into hexagonal shapes. These columns can be found in cliffs and caves surrounding the beach. Reynisfjara is surrounded by stunning scenery, including the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, which are large basalt columns rising out of the sea, and the Dyrhólaey peninsula, which offers stunning views over the coastline. Seljavallalaug Seljavallalaug is a natural swimming pool located in a remote valley in southern Iceland. It is one of the oldest swimming pools in Iceland, built in 1923 to provide local residents with a place to swim and bathe. The pool is approximately 25 meters (82 feet) long and 10 meters (33 feet) wide and is filled with natural spring water. To reach Seljavallalaug, visitors must take a short hike from the parking lot through a scenic valley. The hike takes approximately 15-20 minutes and is relatively easy. Seljavallalaug is set in a beautiful natural setting, surrounded by mountains and a nearby waterfall. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views while relaxing in the warm, natural spring water. Þingvellir (Thingvellir) Thingvellir National Park is located on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. The park is home to a fissure zone where visitors can see evidence of the earth's tectonic activity, including cracks, faults, and rock formations. Thingvellir National Park is home to stunning natural features, including the Öxarárfoss waterfall, Lake Thingvallavatn, and Silfra, a crystal-clear fissure filled with glacial water. Icelandic favourites Puffins: Puffins in Iceland nest in colonies on rocky cliffs and steep slopes along the coast. They can be found in various locations around Iceland, including on the Westman Islands, Dyrhólaey, and Látrabjarg. Puffins are easily recognizable with their colorful beaks and distinctive black and white plumage. During the breeding season, their beaks are brightly colored, with orange, yellow, and blue hues. Skyr: Skyr is a type of dairy product that has been a staple of Icelandic cuisine for centuries. It is similar to yogurt, but it is technically a type of cheese, as it is made from cultured skim milk. Skyr has been a part of Icelandic cuisine for over a thousand years, with records of it being consumed by Viking settlers in the 9th century. Icelandic horses: Icelandic horses are believed to have been brought to Iceland by Viking settlers over 1,000 years ago. They were originally used as work horses for farming, transportation, and as a means of warfare. They are small in stature, standing at an average of 13-14 hands high. They have a thick, double coat of fur that helps protect them from Iceland's harsh climate. Icelandic horses come in a variety of colors, including black, chestnut, and gray. Icelandic horses are known for their friendly and gentle demeanor, as well as their unique gaits. They have two additional gaits, in addition to the standard walk, trot, and canter, called the tölt and the flying pace. The tölt is a smooth and comfortable four-beat gait, while the flying pace is a fast two-beat gait.