Rugged, robust and filled with fun.
The Icelandic landscape has fascinated visitors for centuries and there is no better place to experience its wonders than from the capital. Â Reykjavik is amongst the most popular destinations in Scandinavia and the perfect place to recharge your batteries after an action-packed day in the Icelandic outdoors.
Read on to find out ten of the best outdoor experiences you can have during a holiday in Reykjavik.
Skiing is hugely popular in Iceland and snow sport fans visiting Reykjavik are spoilt for choice when it comes to facilities. The season typically runs from November to April, with Reykjavik served by the nearby resorts of Bláfjöll, Hengill and Skálafell. Downhill and cross-country slopes are available at all sites along with ski hire facilities.
Horses were the main mode of transport on Iceland for centuries; and there’s still no better way to explore the landscape around Reykjavik than on the back of a trusty steed. Numerous companies operate from the capital, offering tours in varying sized groups that take in everything from the Heidmork nature reserve to Reykjavik’s famous volcanic systems.
Iceland’s enchanting landscape has seeped into the work of countless musicians from the country and this can be heard at Reykjavik’s unique annual festival. Iceland Airwaves sees the best in new and established acts perform at unusual venues across the city, with audience members able to spend five days enjoying the best sounds and sights the capital has to offer.
When you think of a holiday in Reykjavik, you can be forgiven for thinking you won’t need to pack your bathing suit. Despite its cold temperatures, the area around the capital has an abundance of thermal spas to keep tourists warm. Blue Lagoon is perhaps the most iconic, with its steamy waters even rumoured to contain healing properties.
Reykjavik is surrounded by glaciers galore and tourists can take a day trip to hike these icy monuments. Expect stunning sights, challenging terrain and one of the most rewarding afternoons of your holiday. After exploring these sights you’ll be glad of a night’s rest in one of the many hotels on offer to anyone staying in Reykjavik.
With so much natural beauty to explore, it’s no surprise that many visitors to Reykjavik simply hire a 4×4, grab a guide book and get to it. Driving to a glacial lagoon to enjoy the Northern Lights or to the awe-inspiring highlands region are just two of the most popular trips tourists decide to take from the capital.
Whales are a frequent sight off the coast of Iceland and can be an unforgettable part of your holiday. Several companies operate daily cruises into the Arctic Ocean to allow tourists to catch a glimpse of these spectacular creatures.
Both novices and experts can climb the heady heights of the huge ice glaciers close to Reykjavik. Take advantage of the ideal conditions and excellent teachers to scale glaciers such as SvÃnafellsjökull and Sólheimajökull.
From sedate fly-fishing to ocean-going adventures, angling is one of the most popular pasttimes in Iceland. Tourists visiting Reykjavik can hire all the necessary equipment to land salmon, trout and some of the country’s more unique native fish.
Iceland’s not just beautiful on the surface — its waters also contain hidden wonders which tourists will be well placed to explore from Reykjavik. Visitors can easily reach Silfra from the Icelandic capital, with its crystal blue waters and tectonic landscape contributing to it being considered one of the world’s most magnificent diving sites.
What do you like to do in Iceland?
