Iceland, Discovered
by Gabrielle Warncke, Luxury Travel Advisor
Like many of my travelers, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect when I arrived in Iceland. This remote island, which is relatively new to the list of popular destinations, has limited 5-star hotels and no bellmen standing by to assist. What makes it special, however, are its comfortable, yet simplistic, accommodations and its jaw-dropping scenery. The landscape is full of contrast and diversity that felt other-worldly at times. Waterfalls abound at every turn. Geysers and thermal pools are scattered throughout the country. Iceland boasts one of the best landscapes I’ve ever experienced.
Iceland’s entire population is only 330,000, with about a third of the citizens residing in Reykjavik. Although the city is relatively small compared to US cities, it has a surprisingly good selection of dining options focused on ultra fresh ingredients. Grillmarkadurinn has an 8-course tasting menu for the true foodie. GLÓ Restaurant uses as many Icelandic and organic ingredients as possible and is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
The locals have invented interesting ways to overcome their short growing season. One of my favorite experiences was when we visited Fridheimer Farms. They’ve created sophisticated greenhouses, and using “bees by the box”, they grow tomatoes and cucumbers year-round. In addition, they offer a small menu at their restaurant within the greenhouse. For lunch, try their grilled tortillas with tomato, basil, and mozzarella and don’t leave without sampling the Green-tomato and apple pie à la Friðheimar with whipped cream for dessert!
Iceland has a large artist population and a number of shops offering local works including paintings, glass pieces, and creations using shards of volcanic rock. Wandering the shops looking at the original creations can easily fill an afternoon. The main shopping streets Laugavegurand and Bankastræti lead up to the magnificent church, Hallgrímskirkja. This uniquely designed church in the heart of Iceland is the most recognized building in the country. Its architecture was inspired by the Black Falls, another landmark in Iceland. A quick elevator ride up to the tower offers panoramic views of the city.
If you have a week or longer to explore, driving along the Ring Road will not disappoint. It circles the entire island, allowing you to experience some of the less visited areas like the striking Kirkjufell Mountains near Grundarfjörður, or the hiking trail from Hellnar to Arnarstapi along the Snaefellsnes Peninsula on the western coast.
If you do not have a week, then the Golden Circle highlights the most famous landmarks along the southern coast and can be done in just a few days. Here, you will find some of the iconic sites like Gullfoss Waterfall and the Strokkur Geyser.
Þingvellir National Park is also easily accessible from Reykjavik as a day trip or the start of a three-day trip. Þingvellir is home to a mighty Rift Valley, where the Eurasian and American continental plates are slowly tearing apart. It was amazing to be to be walking through the fissures of this rift. Another option is the Lanmannlaugar area, with its bubbling hot springs, lava fields, the Hekla volcano, and the incredible multi-colored rhyolite mountains. It’s a striking landscape for hiking or horseback riding on the famous Icelandic horses.
The Blue Lagoon may be the most recognized site in Iceland. Although touristy, it is still worth the stop. The silica in the lagoon water is therapeutic, and even the locals will spend a day here to soak in the benefits. Now that The Retreat has opened, we love the Blue Lagoon even more!
For the extreme adventurer, descending 400 feet into Thrihnukagigur Magma chamber in an open cable lift is unforgettable. I couldn’t believe the spectrum of colors and layers of differing rocks as I descended down the shaft. This was one of my favorite moments and it’s the only place in the world you can actually do this. Thrill-seekers can also explore the Lofthellier Lava cave, at times reduced to crawling on your belly! When I go back, I will make time to head north and explore the lava cave and discover the natural ice formations it displays underground.
All in all, it’s no surprise that Iceland is an emerging destination. I’m already planning my next trip back to this magical, mystical island.