Soak Up Iceland’s Natural Wonders on a Journey Through the Blue Lagoon and Volcanic Landscapes
Soak Up Iceland's Natural Wonders on a Journey Through the Blue Lagoon and Volcanic Landscapes - Dip into the Warm Waters of the Famous Blue Lagoon
No trip to Iceland is complete without a soak in the famous Blue Lagoon. This geothermal spa is one of Iceland’s most popular attractions, and for good reason. The turquoise waters maintain a blissful temperature of 98-104°F year-round, thanks to the nearby Svartsengi geothermal power plant. The water comes from 2000 meters underground, where freshwater and seawater mix with lava to create this stunning blue hue.
As soon as you enter the water, you’ll feel your body start to relax. The mineral-rich water works wonders on sore muscles, while silica and algae give your skin a rejuvenating boost. Spread silica mud masks over your face for an even deeper nourishing effect. Float weightlessly as puffs of steam rise around you. Let any tension slip away as you gaze out over the dreamy waters surrounded by pillowy white clouds.
Many travelers say their time at the Blue Lagoon was the highlight of their Iceland vacation. Torsten still remembers his first dip in the milky teal water over a decade ago. “It was an otherworldly experience,” he recalls. “I felt like I was swimming on another planet.” Amanda describes it as “better than any hot tub I’ve ever been in - the steamy air, the surreal color, the luxurious silky feel of the mineral water.”
The Blue Lagoon is especially magical in cooler months, when the contrast between the misty air and hot water is at its most extreme. Grassy hills dusted with snow surround the steamy lagoon, and the Northern Lights often dance overhead on clear nights. For many, a nighttime soak is the ultimate way to end a winter Iceland day.
While the Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s most famous hot spring, the country is dotted with countless geothermal pools and natural hot pots to discover. Off the beaten bath, you’ll find secluded springs surrounded by mossy lava fields, roaring river rapids, or icy ocean waves. So while no first-timer should miss the Blue Lagoon, devotees suggest trying a wilder, more intimate hot spring experience too.
What else is in this post?
- Soak Up Iceland's Natural Wonders on a Journey Through the Blue Lagoon and Volcanic Landscapes - Dip into the Warm Waters of the Famous Blue Lagoon
- Soak Up Iceland's Natural Wonders on a Journey Through the Blue Lagoon and Volcanic Landscapes - Explore Iceland's Dramatic Landscapes dotted with Volcanoes
- Soak Up Iceland's Natural Wonders on a Journey Through the Blue Lagoon and Volcanic Landscapes - See the Northern Lights Dance Across Iceland's Night Sky
- Soak Up Iceland's Natural Wonders on a Journey Through the Blue Lagoon and Volcanic Landscapes - Take a Dip in a Secluded Hot Spring Nestled in the Wilderness
- Soak Up Iceland's Natural Wonders on a Journey Through the Blue Lagoon and Volcanic Landscapes - Hike through Lush Green Moss-Covered Landscapes
- Soak Up Iceland's Natural Wonders on a Journey Through the Blue Lagoon and Volcanic Landscapes - Marvel at the Raw Beauty of Iceland's Black Sand Beaches
- Soak Up Iceland's Natural Wonders on a Journey Through the Blue Lagoon and Volcanic Landscapes - Visit Majestic Waterfalls Like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss
- Soak Up Iceland's Natural Wonders on a Journey Through the Blue Lagoon and Volcanic Landscapes - Sample Fresh Seafood and Local Cuisine in Charming Fishing Villages
Soak Up Iceland's Natural Wonders on a Journey Through the Blue Lagoon and Volcanic Landscapes - Explore Iceland's Dramatic Landscapes dotted with Volcanoes
Iceland is a land forged by fire and ice, where forces of nature have sculpted a dramatic landscape of peaks and craters. This volcanic island offers some of the world’s most spectacular volcano scenery, with rugged lava fields, icy glaciers, and the infamous Eyjafjallajökull - the one that disrupted transatlantic flights in 2010.
Torsten still remembers gazing out the airplane window in awe when he first caught sight of Iceland’s tortured terrain. “It was like looking at the surface of the moon - alien, beautiful, and ever so slightly frightening,” he says. The raw power that created this landscape is palpable when you’re surrounded by volcanic craters, steam vents, and rivers of now-hardened lava.
One of the best places to take in Iceland’s volcanoes is the Golden Circle route, a 300 km loop that hits three of Iceland’s top attractions. Þingvellir National Park marks the spot where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. Cracks and fissures slice through the rugged landscape, evidence of the land literally being torn apart. Strokkur geyser shoots scalding water 100 feet in the air, a reminder that molten forces still churn below the surface. The tiered Gullfoss waterfall caps off the route, tumbling dramatically into a narrow gorge.
Venture further to see more of Iceland’s volcanic wonders. Hike across the twisted lava fields and volcanic craters of Landmannalaugar in Iceland’s remote interior. Peer into the giant volcanic crater of Kerið, steep red cliffs ringing an aquamarine pool. Visit the lava cave Víðgelmir to walk through a stunning underground chamber formed by flowing lava. Hike to the top of Iceland’s most active volcano, Hekla, admiring its ominous peak. At Askja caldera, hike down to see Víti - a stunning bright blue explosion crater lake surrounded by black volcanic sand.
No landscape photographer or geology buff should miss Iceland’s volcanic masterpiece - the frozen lava cliffs, black sand beaches, and jagged basalt columns of the Snæfellsnes peninsula. “I felt like I’d landed on another world,” Amanda raves after her visit. “The geology was just astounding - it blew my mind to see the raw aftermath of volcanic eruptions that took place ages ago.” From the historic fishing village of Stykkishólmur, you can admire views of the glacier-capped stratovolcano Snæfellsjökull rising dramatically across the bay - said to be one of earth’s seven great energy centers.
Soak Up Iceland's Natural Wonders on a Journey Through the Blue Lagoon and Volcanic Landscapes - See the Northern Lights Dance Across Iceland's Night Sky
Chasing the aurora borealis is an Icelandic obsession - and for good reason. Gazing up at the magical Northern Lights is an experience that stays with you forever. Though catching the Lights requires patience and luck, Iceland is one of the world’s best places to spot this celestial phenomenon.
I still get goosebumps remembering my first sighting nine years ago, Torsten reminisces. My guide shook me awake at 2am when a massive solar storm was passing through. We drove to an isolated spot far from city lights and waited in the freezing cold. Suddenly, an eerie green glow materialized, then morphed into flowing curtains of light. I was awestruck seeing the sky come alive with color. It was humbling to witness the raw power of our universe with my own eyes.
Though Torsten considers his first time unforgettable, he says the thrill hasn’t worn off. During a recent winter trip, he bundled up and drove north hoping to see the Lights again. Around 10pm, faint bands of green wavered overhead. For over an hour we watched the slow dance of light, mesmerized by every subtle fluctuation. Though less dramatic than my first show, observing the Lights with someone new gave me a vicarious sense of wonder. I’ll never stop chasing the magic.
For the best chance at spotting the mercurial Lights, escape light pollution by seeking dark rural areas. Time your visit during peak solar activity between September and March. Check forecasts for your location at websites like Aurora Borealis Forecast. Bundle up and spend as much time outside as you can, waiting patiently with eyes to the sky. Having an expert guide helps choose locations and maximize sightings. Joining a Northern Lights photo tour provides equipment and pro tips for capturing incredible images. Or splurge on an evening Blue Lagoon visit - their northern location offers amazing aurora viewing as you soak.
Soak Up Iceland's Natural Wonders on a Journey Through the Blue Lagoon and Volcanic Landscapes - Take a Dip in a Secluded Hot Spring Nestled in the Wilderness
While the Blue Lagoon draws big crowds, nothing beats finding a hidden hot spring surrounded by Iceland’s rugged wilderness. Slip into piping hot water under the midnight sun or Northern Lights for an unforgettable experience.
Amanda still reminisces fondly about an off-the-beaten-path hot spring she discovered on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula years ago. After clambering down a slope behind a waterfall, she found an empty pool tucked against the cliff face. Steam rose into the crisp air as Amanda eased into the near-boiling water. “It was absolute magic to soak there alone as the last light of sunset faded,” she says. “I felt like an intrepid explorer who had uncovered a secret oasis.”
Venturing to remote springs takes effort but offers great rewards. Studying maps reveals likely geothermal areas to scout once you arrive. Locals may share tips on secluded spots if asked. While driving, watch for telltale signs like steam vents. If you spot a hot spring on private farmland, it’s respectful to ask permission before using it.
Once you find a promising pool, exercise caution checking the temperature before fully submerging. While sought-after for their healing minerals, Iceland’s thermal waters can reach scalding temperatures. Avoid dunking your head or hair until certain of a safe temperature.
While allowing yourself to relax, remain vigilant about safety. Don’t fully close your eyes, and keep valuables within reach. Seek pools with easy entry and exit points, avoiding ones with sheer cliffs or loose rock walls. Check conditions regularly, exiting at any sign of rising water or shifting sediment. Travel with a partner rather than soaking alone.
Plan to visit remote springs during daylight hours - wandering unfamiliar terrain in the dark raises risks. Locals recommend not wearing swimsuits to avoid scald burns from wet fabric. Once you’ve secured a scenic secluded soak, savor the serenity of listening to nothing but nature’s sounds as you unwind in the thermal waters.
Soak Up Iceland's Natural Wonders on a Journey Through the Blue Lagoon and Volcanic Landscapes - Hike through Lush Green Moss-Covered Landscapes
Iceland’s remote wilderness beckons hikers to explore its untamed beauty. Endless trails wind through mystical moss-draped landscapes straight out of a fairy tale. Trekking across spongy carpets of technicolor mosses and around glassy Arctic lakes will make you feel a world away from everything.
Torsten waxes poetic when recalling a multi-day crossing of Iceland’s interior. “Hiking the Laugavegur trail was one of the most magical experiences of my life,” he says. “The surreal lava fields and rainbow-colored hills seemed like something from a dream.” The trail winds past otherworldly craters and bubbling hot springs. At each mountain pass, the scenery transforms entirely. “It was incredible discovering all these hidden landscapes that no road reaches,” Torsten describes. Camping under the midnight sun with newfound friends was the perfect way to fully immerse in Iceland’s majestic wilderness.
Nothing rivals the thrill of summiting a peak and soaking in a sweeping view you’ve earned under your own power. Amanda still gets goosebumps remembering the panorama from the top of Mt. Esja near Reykjavik. “Looking out over lava fields dotted with deep green moss, imposing glaciers, and the glimmering ocean in the distance - it’s a view seared into my memory forever.” The satisfaction of glimpsing such grand vistas after a tough climb is hard to match.
While some trails have become more popular, it’s still easy to escape the crowds if you go prepared. Seek out paths less traveled, where you’re more likely to have the landscape all to yourself. Amanda loves heading out early before the hordes arrive. “Catching the golden glow of first light while alone with the scenery was magical beyond words,” she says.
Soak Up Iceland's Natural Wonders on a Journey Through the Blue Lagoon and Volcanic Landscapes - Marvel at the Raw Beauty of Iceland's Black Sand Beaches
Among Iceland’s plethora of natural wonders, the rugged allure of its black sand beaches stands out. The dramatic contrast between inky sands, icy waves, and lush backdrops creates an otherworldly scene. Many travelers consider discovering these dark shorelines a highlight of their Icelandic adventures.
“I’ll never forget my first glimpse of Reynisfjara’s charcoal expanse,” Amanda recalls. This famous southern beach boasts hexagonal basalt pillars towering over a foaming sea. “Seeing the black sand stretch for miles against the moody skies took my breath away,” she says. As massive waves pounded the shore, Amanda felt insignificantly small against nature’s power. “Yet there was a raw, wild beauty to it all that resonated deeply.”
Vik’s windswept beach also awed Amanda with its lonely, untamed vibe. “Bundled up against the chill in my raincoat, I felt like I had stumbled into an ancient land lost in time.” Turning up perfectly polished obsidian pebbles as the only footprints in the ebony sand gave her a thrilling sense of solitude. “I’ll forever associate Iceland’s wild spirit with those dark, desolate beaches.”
While renowned spots draw crowds, hidden pockets of black sand await off the beaten shore. Local tips led Torsten to an empty beach along the eastern fjords. “After scrambling over craggy lava rocks, I discovered an untouched paradise,” he says. “Pitch-black sands glistening like velvet stretched as far as I could see. The only sound was the hypnotic crash of waves.”
As Torsten strolled the untrammeled strands,finding beaches like this made Iceland’s magic feel more intimate. “To know not every wonder appears in guides added to the mystique,” he muses. Discovering this nameless beach on his own turned exploring from sightseeing into something more profound. “I’ll forever seek that feeling of making a place uniquely mine.”
Soak Up Iceland's Natural Wonders on a Journey Through the Blue Lagoon and Volcanic Landscapes - Visit Majestic Waterfalls Like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss
Among Iceland’s many spectacular natural wonders, its towering waterfalls rank among the most breathtaking. Cascading down sheer cliff faces carved by ancient glaciers, these roaring cataracts will make your jaw drop. No first time visitor should miss experiencing iconic falls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss up-close.
Seljalandsfoss may be one of Iceland’s most unforgettable sights. This narrow ribbon of water drops 200 feet over a concave cliff face. A path winds behind the cascade, allowing you to walk directly behind the voluminous curtain of falling water. Amanda still can’t believe she stood in the cave-like space behind Seljalandsfoss’s thundering torrent. “It was absolutely deafening yet exhilarating to be immersed in the waterfall’s roar,” she recalls. “The world disappeared until it was only me and millions of gallons of water crashing down inches away.”
Equally memorable is the raw power emanating from Skógafoss. With a width of 82 feet, this beast is one of Iceland’s mightiest falls. Skógafoss cascades nearly 200 feet over an imposing rocky scarp. You can climb a steep staircase to the top and feel the unrelenting fury firsthand as runoff from the glacier above barrels over the precipice. Standing at the top looking down on the mighty cascade below will make you feel dizzyingly small and awestruck by nature’s force.
Soak Up Iceland's Natural Wonders on a Journey Through the Blue Lagoon and Volcanic Landscapes - Sample Fresh Seafood and Local Cuisine in Charming Fishing Villages
No trip to Iceland is complete without savoring the bounty of the North Atlantic in a quaint seaside village. Iceland offers an abundance of charming fishing hamlets where you can sample ultra-fresh seafood and traditional cuisine. Many travelers consider connecting with local culture over a hearty Icelandic meal a highlight.
Torsten fondly remembers dining on fish caught that morning during his visit to Grundarfjörður on the Snæfellsnes peninsula. “Sitting down to flaky grilled cod with locals at the Viking Café after a cold day hiking felt so cozy and welcoming,” he recalls. “Sharing stories over homemade rye bread and lively tales of life at sea made me feel part of this tight-knit town.” Meals like this offer a profound sense of place. “Far more memorable than any fancy restaurant is eating humble but heartfelt dishes in a setting that embodies Icelandic life,” Torsten says.
Equally unforgettable for Amanda was sampling culinary specialties at Tjöruhúsið in downtown Ísafjörður. This charming restaurant in Iceland’s remote Westfjords is set in an old salt house. “Feasting on langoustine bisque and pan-fried monkfish liver as fishing boats bobbed in the harbor made me feel transported,” Amanda says. She cherishes the memory of watching the midnight sun sink into the sea during a luxuriously long dinner. “Meals here have a leisurely pace that make you really soak up the surroundings.”
While renowned spots draw crowds, some of Amanda’s most magical meals came from places only locals know. She found Hafnarbúðin bakery in the eastern village of Seyðisfjörður thanks to a local tip. “Sipping strong coffee accompanied by homemade cinnamon rolls still warm from the oven felt like a well-kept secret perfected over generations,” she muses. Seek out hole-in-the-wall joints off the beaten path for the truest taste of Iceland.
Torsten discovered his favorite lobster soup in a nameless café down an alley in Siglufjörður. “The owner chatted with me like a regular while letting me sample that day’s catch,” he fondly recalls. “Finding unpretentious places like this immerses you in the rhythms of Icelandic life.” Meandering without an agenda led Torsten to hidden gems no guide could reveal. “Stumbling upon authentic experiences felt profoundly more meaningful than following the crowds.”