Known as the land of fire and ice, Iceland has everything from gorgeous glaciers and volcanoes. It’s also famous for its breathtaking waterfalls, but the one thing that Iceland is very well-known for is the Northern Lights. This stunning lights in the sky is a natural occurrence that happens when there are collisions between the electrically charged particles from the sun with the Earth’s atmosphere. Although it’s rather difficult to predict precisely when this rare occasion may happen, it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to be able to see it.
Head to Scandinavia or southern part of Iceland for your best chance of seeing the lights, where it’s not as crowded or polluted. In the region of Úlfljótsvatn, there’s also Hotel Borealis, where they claimed to have the best views of the Northern Lights. Not only that, the hotel also provides an outdoor hot tub for its guests to enjoy a stunning view while they are relaxing in the bath.
Iceland’s volcanoes are also worth the trip there. The famous volcanic crater lake, Kerid, that’s located in the Grímsnes along the Golden Circle is one of the few worth mentioning. Together with its ancient amphitheater look and the vivid contrast of the water and the snow all around is remarkable.
Two of the most spectacular waterfalls are also in Iceland; the grand Seljalandsfoss and theatrical Skógafos. Skógafos especially is famous for its rainbow that is visible in most sunny days because of the amount of water spray that is produced by the waterfall.
Iceland is also the best place of the Geysir geothermal fields. However, the original geyser is now inactive, and it’s been replaced by Strokkur (Icelandic for “churn”) that erupts every 5–10 minutes — and just as pretty.
So, if you’ve been wanting to embrace the cold weather this winter, and enjoy a breathtaking view while you’re at it, Iceland would be the perfect answer for you. There are various tour packages you can book or you can do your own research and travel on a budget.
Have a wonderful winter!