Iceland is one of the most incredible and fascinating countries on the planet. Perched on the edge of the Arctic Circle, Iceland is a land of ice and fire, steam and desolation. Iceland boasts some of the most spectacular scenery and natural attractions in Europe.

The country is sparsely populated with most people living in small coastal communities or the capital, Reykjavik. The capital city is a totally happening place with a vibrant social scene. Visitors looking for a destination that offers history, cultural delights, gorgeous scenery, and great entertainment will certainly not be disappointed with a stop in Reykjavik. Outside Reykjavik, the attractions are

The Blue Lagoon

Sparking like a molten lake of turquoise in the barren landscape of a volcanic plain, the Blue Lagoon is surely one of the natural wonders of the world. Unlike many hot springs where the thermal waters are fresh (excluding the mineral content), the Blue Lagoon is heated sea water, the lagoon having been ‘trapped’ by cooling lava. Wrapped in folklore with tales of Icelandic elves, the destination is served by a spa hotel, tour facilities and an excellent restaurant. Many tours of Europe will include premier spa destinations – surely there is none so amazingly wondrous as this one.

Langjokull Glacier

Should you visit Iceland and not visit a glacier? Of course not and top of the picks is Langjokull. The country’s second largest glacier, it is located in central Iceland and is visible from a wide area. Its name means Long Glacier and it covers an area of around 950 square kilometers. Expect a barren and serene landscape with peaks as the backdrop. If you get the chance, a dog sled tour on the glacier will provide lasting memories.

Gullfoss

Thanks to melting glacial ice, Iceland has many spectacular waterfalls, including Glymar, the highest at 650 feet and Dettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in Europe. Gullfoss however, is the draw card in Icelandic waterfalls – not the highest, or the widest, but the prettiest, and a designated national monument. The falls plunge 105 feet through a steep-sided canyon and the spray very often brings forth glorious rainbows on sunny days.

Snaefellsnes Peninsula

100 kilometers of breathtaking scenery makes up the striking peninsula that Jules Verne immortalized in his novel Journey to the Centre of the Earth. As Iceland’s newest national park, the peninsula is a dramatic feast of sweeping golden sand beaches, forbidding volcanic peaks, imposing sea cliffs, lush fjords and of course, the dominating icecap called Snaefellsjokull.

If you are contemplating a tour of Europe and want to be blown away by scenery, then Snaefellsnes Peninsula should be on your wish list.  Although it can get a bit rainy (pack your wet weather gear), the beauty is worth the small effort and will be of interest to eco-tourists as this is an Earth Check Community.

Geysir

Lending its name to the definition of intermittent water spouts, the famous jet at Geysir first made its presence felt sometime in the 14th century. Erupting 2-3 times daily, the hot spring water can spout up to 260 feet in the air. Just so you don’t have to spend ages waiting for the main event, near neighbor, Strokkur, erupts every 5-7 minutes, but only manages 115 feet. Its frequency makes “The Chum” the world’s most reliable geyser.

About the Author:  Candice from TravAddict specializies in writing about Tours to Europe.