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Exploring Harpa Reykjavik Concert Hall | A Must See For Photographers

September 2, 2018 by admin Leave a Comment

Exploring Harpa Reykjavik Concert Hall | A Must See For Photographers | Harpa In Reykjavik

 

 

Among many waterfalls, glaciers, geysers and so much more to see in Iceland is another gem that you need to add to your list by way of Harpa Reykjavik concert hall. Harpa concert hall is located in the centre of Reykjavik, designed by the Danish firm Henning Larsen Architects in co-operation with Danish-Icelandic artist Olafur Eliasson. The design consists of a steel framework clad with geometrically shaped glass panels of different colours. The whole building from top to bottom inside and out is just a delight to a photographer.

 

Also See:

  • How To Find Iceland’s Hidden Pool
  • Adventures On Zambia’s Victoria Falls
  • Top Places To Visit In Jaipur
  • A Perfect One Day London Itinerary

 

Whether you prefer shooting in the daytime or night photography, Harpa in Reykjavik has endless possibilities. The building features a distinctive colored glass facade inspired by the basalt landscape of Iceland. Depending on how the light hits the geometrically shaped glass you all kinds of beautiful colours in addition to how the building reflects the water nearby as it is built right by the docks on the coastline.

 

Harpa Reykjavik Concert Hall In Pictures

 

Had it not been for the Icelandic financial crisis in 2008, construction would have completed much earlier. Formally known as The Reykjavík Concert Hall and Conference Centre, Harpa Concert Hall now houses the Iceland Symphony Orchestra and the offices of The Icelandic Opera. If you are in Reykjavik definitely take a few minutes to explore this building. Its also a short walk from Solfar Sun Voyager sculpture along Reykjavík’s scenic waterfront.

Exploring Harpa Reykjavik Concert Hall | A Must See For Photographers | Harpa In ReykjavikExploring Harpa Reykjavik Concert Hall | A Must See For Photographers | Harpa In Reykjavik

Exploring Harpa Rejkavik Concert Hall | A Must See For Photographers | Harpa In Reykjavik

   

Exploring Harpa Reykjavik Concert Hall | A Must See For Photographers Exploring Harpa Reykjavik Concert Hall | A Must See For Photographers

   

Exploring Harpa Reykjavik Concert Hall | A Must See For Photographers

Exploring Harpa Rejkavik Concert Hall | A Must See For Photographers | Harpa In ReykjavikExploring Harpa Reykjavik Concert Hall | A Must See For Photographers  Exploring Harpa Rejkavik Concert Hall | A Must See For Photographers | Harpa In Reykjavik Exploring Harpa Reykjavik Concert Hall | A Must See For PhotographersExploring Harpa Reykjavik Concert Hall | A Must See For Photographers Exploring Harpa Reykjavik Concert Hall | A Must See For Photographers Exploring Harpa Reykjavik Concert Hall | A Must See For Photographers

Exploring Harpa Reykjavik Concert Hall | A Must See For Photographers Exploring Harpa Reykjavik Concert Hall | A Must See For Photographers   Exploring Harpa Reykjavik Concert Hall | A Must See For Photographers

 

More On Iceland:

  • Iceland’s Best Campsites
  • Top Tips For Exploring Iceland By Campervan
  • Everything You Need To Know About Visiting The Blue Lagoon
  • Sleeping Under Waterfalls In Iceland

Filed Under: Travel Tips Tagged With: Europe, Iceland, Reykjavik

Best Iceland Campsites – 10 of The Best Spots For Camping In Iceland

June 4, 2018 by admin 28 Comments

Top 10 Iceland Campsites – The Best Spots For Camping In Iceland

A guide to the best campsites in Iceland. I shared plenty of posts from our Iceland road trips, from exploring under midnight sun, to why visiting Iceland in July is the best time to visit.

In this post I will take you through Iceland camping, covering, where to camp in Iceland, the best campsites in Iceland, Iceland campsite prices, including what it’s like camping in Iceland in summer. Visiting Iceland in July means you get the very best of the weather as July is one of the warmest months in the year.

 

Some of the most iconic and loved Game of Thrones scenes were shot in Iceland. So, you know this captivating and rugged landscape is a place of beauty.

That can only make camping in Iceland an epic adventure, and why knowing the best Iceland campsites and Iceland camping equipment rentals stores a must before you go.

 

If you are only exploring the capital, find where to stay in Reykjavik isn’t too difficult but when exploring the beautiful sights on the Ring Road, it’s a little harder to plan where your next stop to sleep for the night can be hard while doing the Iceland road trip.

This is partly because almost every other mile there is something to see, which can make calculating when you get to a booked hotel will be when there are so many stops along the way. This is where campsites in Iceland come in!

 

 

Also See:

  • Sleeping Under Waterfalls In Iceland
  • A Guide To Iceland’s Vik – What To See And Where To Stay
  • Camping In Trolltunga Norway
  • Whale Watching In Iceland
  • Why Harpa In Reykjavik Is  A Must For Photographers

 

iceland camping | Top 10 Iceland Campsites – The Best Spots For Camping In Iceland

 

 

Top 10 Of Best Campsites In Iceland | The best Spots For Camping In Iceland

 

As you may already know, Iceland isn’t one of the cheapest destinations to visit, but combining a camping trip on the Ring Road, whether visiting for the northern lights, goldern circle tourist sights, hot spring swimming pools in the mountains, to see glacier lagoons, Iceland travel can be made that little cheaper if you combine it with camping.

This also gives you added flexibility when it comes to accommodation planning for your Icelandic adventures. We did a combination of tent camping in Iceland and Iceland camper rental.

I also shared a post about why this is also one of the best ways to tour Iceland. I will also be sharing more tips on campervan hire in Iceland as well as price comparisons of motorhome rental in Iceland.

 

While all these sites are open in the summer months and some of them for the entire year – they don’t always open for the same period of time. Just double check that they are open if visiting Iceland in winter.

Plus, depending on how remote the locations are, the weather conditions can affect their opening dates. So, do check before you go. Now, let’s dive into our favorite campsites in Iceland, from West to East Iceland and from South up to North Iceland.

 

 

1. Grindavik Campsite

This is an ideal campsite as a starter for your camping trip to Iceland and one of the best options for accommodation in camping site in Iceland. Grindavik is a fishing town and has a lovely harbor on this coast.

The Grindavik campsite is close to the major airports (Keflavík International Airport and Reykjavik Domestic Airport) so you can get over your jetlag or wind down before leaving Iceland.

You have access to warm and cold water, toilets, showers and washing machines. If you have rented an RV or mobile home, you can get rid of your waste at this campsite. There’s internet access, walking paths and a playground if you have kids.

 

 

2. Breiðavík camping site

The Breiðavík camping site is on the way to one of the most visited tourist areas in Iceland – Látrabjarg. The campsite is also close to other tourist attractions such as Westfjords and the stunning Látrabjarg cliffs.

It offers access to a barbecue grill as well as the many usual amenities such as a washing machine and WI-FI, and coffee and tea come as part of the price. Children under 12 stay free.

 

 

3. Egilsstaðir Campsite

The town of Egilsstaðir sits on the eastern part of the Vatnajökull National Park. The Egilsstaðir camping site is located in the heart of the town and is open year-round and is one of the best campsites in Iceland.

Being in the town center, it means you are close to all the main services and shops. Its location makes it easy to take short day-trips to other scenic spots such as the Hallormsstaðaskógur forest.

This is another one of campgrounds in Iceland that has the usual amenities – washing machines, showers, playground for kids.

 

Top 10 Iceland Campsites – The Best Spots For Camping In Iceland

4. Höfn Campsite

The Höfn campsite in east Iceland is a perfect location to rest when you want to take a tour of the Jökulsárlón glacier lake on the edge of the Vatnajökull National Park.

It’s normally open from April to September and comes with many amenities for winding down each day from your drives along the Iceland Ring Road or for spending the day.

It has a gold course, walking paths, horse rental, and fishing just to name a few of the activities you can do there.

 

 

5. Vopnafjörður Iceland Campgrounds

The Vopnafjörður Camping Ground is another of Iceland campgrounds in East Iceland. Located on the hills in the city centre, it gives you a fantastic view across the bay and the town. Again, this site has barbecue facilities as well as restrooms, shower facilities, and internet access.

Other services are within an easy walking distance from the campsite. This is one of the smaller campsites in our top 10 list, but its easy access to swimming pools, hot tubs, horse rentals, etc. more than makes up for it.

 

 

6. Húsafell Campsite

Húsafell is one of the most popular campsites in Iceland, West Iceland. The site is a short distance from a swimming pool, golf course, and other services in the town. Plus, you are close to some of the iconic Iceland glaciers such as the Langjökull – the second largest icecap in Iceland.

You will want to visit this campsite in the summertime because they have a large campfire program every Saturday night. You definitely don’t want to miss that.

 

Top 10 Iceland Campsites – The Best Spots For Camping In Iceland

For Iceland Packing Tips check out the Boarding Call post.

 

7. Hellissandur Camping Ground

Another lovely west Iceland campsites is the Hellissandur Camping Ground. It is surrounded by beautiful lava fields called Sandahraun. The camping ground is close to beaches and the Snæfellsjökull National Park.

Plus, you can join the Snæfellsjökull Glacier Hike which offers midnight sun tours and an epic one-day outing for sightseeing. Of course, it wouldn’t be one of our Iceland camping sitess without the regular sanitary facilities.

 

8. Ólafsvík Camp Site

Another popular one of the Iceland camping sites in West Iceland camping ground is Ólafsvík. The site is located right at the entrance to the town of Ólafsvík. In the heart of the town, you can visit the Regional Museum of Snæfellsbær, a coffee shop, and a handcraft gallery.

Plus, the campsite is also close to the Snæfellsjökull Glacier for a wonderful day of hiking adventures. Or, spend the day on the fishing harbour just taking in the lively routines in the day of the life of an Ólafsvík seaman.

 

camping in iceland | Top 10 Iceland Campsites – The Best Spots For Camping In Iceland

 

9. Jökulsárgljúfur/Ásbyrgi Campground

If you’re heading to the north, a great place to stop is the Jökulsárgljúfur/Ásbyrgi campground which is another one of the Iceland campsites as it sits inside the national park. It’s open all year round and offers accommodation for tents, mobile homes, and folding campers.

If you’re traveling with a pet, you’ll be happy to know that dogs are allowed at this site. Stop by the Ásbyrgi Visitor Centre for more information on all the sites and activities in and around Jökulsárgljúfur. It also has a souvenir shop and an intriguing exhibit on the formation of the Ásbyrgi Canyon.

 

10. Þórshöfn Camping Ground

Another fantastic northern Iceland campsite is at the Þórshöfn Camping Ground. The campsite itself has great amenities for caravans and mobile homes. You have access to toilets and electricity. Plus, there are benches and tables if you want to sit outside your vans.

There is a sports centre that is a short distance away from the campsite where you can use the swimming pool with hot tubs and the gym as well as washing machine and dryer.

Of course, any good campground must have internet access and the sports centre, Verið, has this. You also have a variety of activities to choose from including bird watching from the Skorubíkurbjarg viewing platform.

 

 

Camping In Iceland In July(Including Camping in June & August)

 

Iceland weather can be dodgy anyway but when it comes to tent camping in Iceland, by far, camping in Iceland in July offers one of the best experiences as this is one of the driest months and warmest.

Warm in terms of Icelandic averages that is. If you are visiting the month before camping in Iceland in June also isn’t that bad in terms of weather. Some months can be really cold and wet.

 

I have done camping in wet conditions it really isn’t the best experience. During the really wet and super cold months campervan hire/rv rental in Iceland offers a better and comfortable option.

Because campervans can be expensive during peak season, during the summer, camping in Iceland means you can also opt to hire and ordinary car and do tent camping in Iceland for even more savings towards your finances for the trip.

Also, note that there are plenty of budget grocery stores in Iceland to buy food than buying expensive restaurant food along the way.

 

Again coming in Iceland in August, June or July you will have a far better experience in some parts of Iceland, although this is the summer we still had some wet days on a campsite next to Skogafoss. During this time we jumped back into our Iceland camper rental we picked up in Reykjavik. So depending on whether weather look at all options.

 

 

 

Tent Camping In Iceland | Camping At Skogafoss

Tent camping in Iceland offers one of the best and cost-effective ways to explore the Ring Road sights. Explore beautiful national parks in Iceland, explore the beautiful treasures within Vatnajökull national park, stay up until the midnight sun, explore south, east Iceland and north Iceland and then some, all the while tent camping during your road trip.

There are simply so many ways to experience this beautiful country and its ‘out of this world’ sights, from the blue lagoon, waterfalls, glacier lagoons, geysers and so much more! Camping allows you to explore Iceland and not blow a lot of money on expensive accommodation along the Ring Road.

 

 

 

Iceland Campsite Prices and Tariffs And Free Camping Kids

There aren’t many free camp sites in Iceland, what these are are just public lands. Most camping places in Iceland are free on publands.ds .

Campsites by waterfalls are also not that expensive. For some places, Iceland campsite prices start from rates around ISK 1700 per night. Children 13-16 years, accompanied by adults might range around ISK 800 per night.

Children 12 years and younger, accompanied by adults, are usually free of charge. You can also get group discounts. A group of 10 people or more might get 10% discount on camping. To qualify for a group discount, one person in the group must pay for the whole camping rate in full for the group.

 

Iceland Camping Equipment Rental

For our trips camping on the Trolltunga trail in Norway, we brought our own camping gear from London. For our trip to Iceland, we didnt have to bring any as Iceland camping equipment was already included in out campervan rental which I have written about on the blog and linked above.

If you don’t have the luxury as having all the camping gear with you or want to avoid paying extra in baggage fees to bring all the equipment with you, there are the option of Iceland camping equipment rentals when you arrive in Reykjavik. For Iceland camping rental options check out sites like Iceland Camping Equipment Rental, Rent A Tent and Fjallakofinn.

 

There isn’t a huge number of rental shops for outdoor equipment as this is an industry if you can call it that is just starting to grow. The small number of stores in Iceland that do camping rentals do offer a variety of equipment.

They rent out equipment for singles and groups, backpacks, child carriers, rental tents, sleeping bags, cooking equipment, WIFI, GoPro, coolers and many other things.

Prices vary, for example, gas stove cost from around £2.20 per day, first aid kit is around £1 a day, tents start from around £6 – 18 a day. These Iceland camping rental stores open from 9-10am and close by 5 or 6 pm so make sure you head there before they close as most don’t do late hours.

 

Camping Gear and Outdoors Equipment Stores In Iceland

If you have arrived with some camping equipment in Iceland and looking to add a few missing items. There are a couple of outdoor stores in Iceland.

Most of which are in Reykjavik but you do have a couple scattered around Iceland.  These sell a variety of equipment from cycling, fishing, hunting, clothing, footwear and camping gear like tents, coolers, camping furniture, first aid kits, portable camping WC.

 

  • Ellingsen in Fiskislóð
  • Utilif in Kringlan, Glæsibær and Smáralind shopping mall.
  • Alparnir in Faxafeni
  • Byko in Eyjarslóð
  • Everest in Skeifan
  • Útivist og veiði in Kaupvangsstræti, Akureyri

 

Leave No Trace

To preserve the wild beauty and nature of the country, it is recommended (an in most instances are required by law) to camp only in designated camping areas.

This also makes sure that you aren’t encroaching on private property since you will be staying at one of the many free and low-cost camping sites. I have also tried to include things to know about camping site in Iceland, in terms of facilities on the campsite.

 

 

Iceland Camping Questions

 

Can anyone Camp In The Wild In Iceland

The simple answer is yes, as long as its public land and NOT private land. Be respectful. We saw people camping right outside the camping grounds just to avoid paying the campsite price but still managed to use campsite facilities in the morning. This is not cool at all!

 

Do Iceland Campsites Have Wifi,

Yes, but not all of them, we found that facilities vary between campsites in Iceland. The ones that didn’t have wifi, we found there was a restaurant or cafe nearby with wifi.

 

How Would One Go About Travelling Cheap To Iceland | Is visiting and traveling in Iceland expensive?

Is visiting and traveling in Iceland expensive, it can be if you dont watch your budget carefully but it is possible to do Iceland on a budget. You can rent a normal car instead of a campervan and opt to tent camping in Iceland instead of staying using a campervan in Iceland.

If it gets super cold you still also have the option of camping in car.  Stock up at the grocery stores with food you can cook instead of using cafes or restaurants.

 

The best budge grocery stores in Iceland is Bonus. Where possible you can visit all the tourist sights yourself instead of doing a tour.

Only use tours for say, whale watching as you certainly cannot DIY that tour. Things like that mean you can save money that you can then use for other things on the trip.

 

 

 

Also See:

 

  • What To Pack For Iceland
  • Camping In Snowdonia Wales
  • Top Tips On Campervan Rentals In Iceland
  • The Perfect One Day London Itinerary
  • Top 20 Experiences Not To Miss In Paris

 

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Filed Under: Adventure Tagged With: Camping, Europe, Iceland

Iceland In July | Why Summer’s The Best Time To Visit Iceland & Things To Do

June 3, 2018 by admin 16 Comments

Iceland In July | Why Summer's The Best Time To Visit Iceland - Summer In Iceland

Hallgrímskirkja Church

 

Iceland is one of those places where the weather changes almost every hour but by far the best time to visit Iceland is in the summer.

We did a summer in Iceland so I will take you through all the cool things to do in Iceland in July. From where to stay, what to pack, best tours, driving in Iceland and how to to get the most of your holiday in Iceland in July and summer in general.

 

A holiday in Iceland in Summer gives you almost the full 24 hours in the day to explore if you so choose. We breezed through a list of must-see and things to do in Reykjavik, Iceland in July while days were almost 22 hours long.

The sunset would be around midnight or 1am and you could still walk around and explore the city, regardless of the fact that most places were closed. For more on what to see in Iceland in July, check out my post on top 20 things to do in Iceland.

 

Also See:

  • The Best Areas To Stay In Reykjavik
  • A Guide To Exploring Iceland’s Vik
  • How To Find Iceland’s Hidden Pool
  • A Trip To Diamond Lagoon In Jokusarlon
  • What To Pack For Iceland
  • Fun Facts To Know about Iceland Before You Visit

 

Why Iceland In July Is The Best Time To Visit At A Glance

If you’ve ever dreamt of visiting Iceland, July is the month when this magical land truly shines. Here’s why July is the best time to explore the land of fire and ice:

  1. Midnight Sun: Experience the phenomenon of the midnight sun, where daylight stretches into the early hours of the morning and the sun barely sets. It’s a surreal experience that allows you to make the most of your day and night.
  2. Warmer Weather: July brings milder temperatures to Iceland, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and exploring the stunning landscapes. Pack your hiking boots and get ready to conquer the trails!
  3. Lush Greenery: With the arrival of summer, Iceland’s landscapes burst into vibrant green hues. The lush meadows and blooming wildflowers create picturesque scenes that are perfect for photography and relaxation.
  4. Wildlife Sightings: July is a fantastic time for wildlife enthusiasts. You can spot various bird species, including puffins, as well as seals and even the occasional whale on boat tours.
  5. Festivals and Events: Iceland comes alive with cultural festivals and events in July. From music festivals like Secret Solstice to local celebrations, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in Icelandic culture.
  6. Accessible Highlands: In July, many of Iceland’s highland roads and trails become accessible, allowing you to explore the remote and breathtaking interior regions.
  7. Hot Springs and Geothermal Pools: Enjoy a dip in Iceland’s famous hot springs and geothermal pools. The warmer weather makes the experience even more refreshing.
  8. Extended Daylight for Exploration: With daylight extending well into the night, you have more time to explore Iceland’s natural wonders, waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanoes.

 

Iceland In July | Why Summer's The Best Time To Visit Iceland - Summer In Iceland

 

Things To Do In Iceland In July At A Glance

 

  • Visit the Blue Lagoon
  • Explore the Ring Road and visit Icelandic Waterfalls; Skogafoss, Gullfoss, Seljalandsfoss…
  • Whale watching in July in Iceland is the best time to see the creatures.
  • Experience mid-night sunsets in Iceland in July
  • Explore black sand beaches in Vik Iceland
  • See Eldhraun’s lava fields 
  • See Geysers and bubbling mud pools
  • Visit Hallgrímskirkja church and check out the views from the top
  • Hike to find the hidden Seljavallalaug Pool in the mountains
  • Hike Glacier lagoons
  • Walk across black sand beaches in Iceland
  • Visit Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
  • Explore Snaefellsnes Peninsula

 

Iceland In July | Why Summer's The Best Time To Visit Iceland - Summer In Iceland

 

Summer In Iceland – Iceland Weather In July

Summer in Iceland is pretty beautiful! I am sure the winter is great too but from having friend’s get stuck in winter storms that disrupted exploring options and time, I don’t quite fancy taking that chances.

Visiting during the Summer in Iceland means that especially for those with a short holiday in Iceland in July or during June and August, you can really make the most of your time when the days are super long during this period.

 

Throughout the summer in Iceland; particularly in Reykjavik, there are nearly 24 hours of continuous daylight, while in the northern areas of the country the sun barely sets at all.

If you are exploring the Ring Road during Summer make sure you read my tips on Iceland by campervan. Below are details of weather in Iceland in July.

 

  • Summer in Iceland: Summer in Iceland is in June, July and August and these months are relatively warm. The regular July temperature in the southern part of the island is 10°C to 13°C, however warm summer days can reach 20°C to 25ºC. The highest temperature recorded was 30°C in the Eastern fjords in August 1939.
  • Winter: Icelandic winter is relatively mild but there can be winter storms now and then. The winter temperature in Iceland averages around 0°C  in the south of Iceland in winter, while the highlands tend to average around -10°C. The lowest temperatures in the northern part of the isle vary from roughly -25°C to -30°C. The lowest temperature ever recorded was in January 1971 when the climate dropped to a freezing -39.7°C.
  • The temperature in Iceland in July : According to Holiday-Weather, July is the hottest month in Iceland with the average temperature in Iceland in July at around 11°C (52°F). Yes, that is pretty cold still considering you will be surrounded by icebergs, glaciers, and waterfalls. We will cover what to pack below.
  • Iceland weather in June, July, August: The days are as long 20-22 hours of daylight which means you can explore the waterfalls and other Ring Road sights until you want to sleep. In the evenings it doesn’t get really cold but this is still by far the warmest and best time to visit Iceland.
  • Average temperatures in Iceland by July and through the year: Below are some of the average temperatures of Reykjavik during the year. For tips on visiting Iceland in March check out Diana’s Healthy Living post. If you are visiting Iceland for Northern Lights check out tips on things to know about the Aurora Borealis visuals.

 

Chart with Temperature in Iceland in July

 

 

Things To Do In Iceland In July And Summer Months

 

Explore The Reykjavik Into Midnight

When it comes to what to do in Reykjavik Iceland in July, the list is endless as the day is super long meaning that you can explore the Reykjavik colourful spots, you can explore Hallgrímskirkja Church, take in views from Perlan, explore the Sun Voyager.

 

Iceland In July | Why Summer's The Best Time To Visit Iceland - Summer In IcelandIceland In July | Why Summer's The Best Time To Visit Iceland - Summer In Iceland

Iceland In July | Why Summer's The Best Time To Visit Iceland - Iceland in July

Sun Voyager

Iceland In July | Why Summer's The Best Time To Visit Iceland - Summer In Iceland

Harpa Concert Hall in Reykjavik

Midnight Sunset In Iceland

Midnight sunset in Reykjavik

 

Explore The Waterfalls And Geysers

You will be amazed at just how many waterfalls Iceland has. Without fail, you will see one almost every couple of minutes driving along the Ring Road. From hidden waterfalls to waterfalls that you can walk behind, to waterfalls that had just so amazing that at the sheer volume of water falling across the gorges they created.

 

So, when considering whaIceland in iceland in July, you easily fill a whole itinerary with just hunting for beautiful and stunning waterfalls in Iceland. Check out my post on waterfalls in  Iceland see more of mother nature’s masterpieces.

Iceland In July | The Geyser

Iceland In July | Why Summer's The Best Time To Visit Iceland - Summer In Iceland

 

Hike The Glaciers  – Svinafellsjokull Glacier

Exploring Iceland in July means you can get close to the glaciers without needing much equipment. We explored the area around Svinafellsjokull glacier, during winter the road leading up to the trail is covered in snow making it harder and much more dangerous to get as close as we did without needing additional equipment or a guide.

 

Hiking in Iceland in July is much more pleasant as you can see a lot more of the country without the need for a special guide. Although, I am not recommending you take to the glaciers on your own. Even walking around the lagoon by Svinafellsjokull requires you to be vigilant as two people died in that spot.

Svinafellsjokull

Exploring Svinafellsjokull – See below on what to pack for Iceland.

 

Camp Next To Waterfalls | Camping At Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss

With Iceland in July and summer months being mild, this is one of the best times to bring your camping gear. It also means you can save money on hotels as you can camp cheaply or freely on public lands. Look out for my next posts on Iceland campsites.

 

Camping in Iceland in July, although it does rain a little bit, camping during this time of year means you can enjoy the experience far more than when the weather is cold and wet like it is in the winter.

 

Skogafoss waterfall camping - Iceland in July

Iceland In July – Skogafoss waterfall camping  

 

Explore Fairy Tale Scenery Of Eldharun Lava Fields

Explore the moss-covered lava fields of Iceland. Eldharun can be seen from the Ring Road. Although it’s not totally obvious in the shots below, we didn’t walk too far into the fields as I explain in my post on Eldharun, the stones below are unstable so we only explored to edges by the road.

 

It is advisable not to go too far onto the moss fields as firstly you don’t know how stable the earth is underneath also so as not to destroy the moss fields which takes a long time to form.

 

Iceland In July | Why Summer's The Best Time To Visit Iceland - Summer In Iceland

Exploring the beautiful moss lava fields of Eldharun

 

Float Away In Iceland’s Thermal Pools At Blue Lagoon

Iceland In July | Why Summer's The Best Time To Visit Iceland - Things To Do In Iceland In July

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Iceland In July | Why Summer's The Best Time To Visit Iceland - Summer In Iceland Iceland In July | Why Summer's The Best Time To Visit Iceland - Summer In Iceland

 

The Best Iceland Tours In July

 

 

Match of our exploring in Iceland was self-guided but we did, however, do the whale watching tour from Reykjavik, you can also do Akureyri whale watching if you are going to be in the Northern side of Iceland. If you are self-driving in Iceland then you won’t really need to do the Golden Circle tour but if you are short on time or not driving then definitely check out the tours below.

 

Also tours for glacier walking, ice climbing, boat cruise on the glacier lagoons, for those you need a guide as they require special equipment and knowledge of the area. However, if you want to hike near(not on) a glacier then check out our exploration near Svinafelljokull Glacier Tongue.

 

For tours in and around Iceland check out Viator Tours, a Tripadvisor company, that also offer 10% off when you sign up to newsletters. Also check out Get Your Guide Tours below and on their site for an extensive list of tours and 1000s of reviews from tour guests.

 

Whale Watching In Iceland - Iceland In July | Why Summer's The Best Time To Visit Iceland - Summer In Iceland Whale Watching In Iceland - Iceland In July | Why Summer's The Best Time To Visit Iceland - Summer In Iceland

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What To Pack For Iceland In July And Summer In Iceland

Iceland In July | Why Summer's The Best Time To Visit Iceland - Summer In Iceland

This is summer in Iceland! – Thermals, knitted dress, wool coat and fur boots and all.

When considering what to pack for Iceland in July, don’t make the mistake of thinking that this is the type of location to pack your flip-flops, unless they are for the Blue Lagoon.

 

Also, definitely leave the summer maxi dresses behind unless you are doing one of those instagram shoots. Packing for Iceland in July, will still very much consist of warm thermals, wool coats, scarves and warm walking/hiking boots.

 

For a detailed look at clothes for Iceland in July check out my post on what to pack for Iceland. In the meant time make sure you pack:

  • Pack thermals:

  • Pack decent pair of walking shoes:

  • Pack a warm coat:

 

Driving In Iceland In July

 

Driving in Iceland in July and the summer months is by far the best time to explore the island on a self-guided tour using rental cars. Although you will have rain at least you don’t have to contend with too radical weather patterns.

 

There isn’t a lot of snow to contend with on the roads making it easier to drive around Iceland’s Ring Road and get the most of your exploring the country. We did quick a lot of driving around Iceland around the Rind Road. Other than the whale watching tour, the majority of the exploring we did around Iceland were all self-guided while we explored in our campervan and our other rental car.

 

My only advice to you when planning a trip to Iceland in July is to consider booking your rental car or campervan in Iceland well in advance as summer in Iceland is popular with visitors, considering this is the best time to visit Iceland, in addition to the fact that Iceland isn’t that big so options do run out fast in which case you will be left with more expensive options that you didn’t factor in when planning you Iceland trip.

 

For car rentals check out Europcar (US/CA  and UK/EU) 

 

Iceland In July | Why Summer's The Best Time To Visit Iceland - Summer In Iceland

Our campervan rental while exploring parts of the Ring Road

 

 

Where To Stay In Iceland In July

 

We were in Iceland for nearly two weeks so we stayed in a variety of accommodation options. We used Airbnb, hotels and Campervan which I have written about extensively on the blog with plenty of tips for both guests and host who want to use Airbnb to earn a second income.

 

For a guest, you can also have $35/£25 towards your accommodation. We also drove around Iceland and camped under waterfalls as well as staying in our rented Iceland Campervan which I shared tips on a while back.

 

Once we had done a few days around the Ring Road in our campervan, we returned to stay in Reykjavik and book a comfortable bed in a hotel after camping and sleeping in a campervan for over 5 days on the road. To see the full list of Iceland hotels, apartments, and hostels in Reykjavik click here. and for the rest of Iceland, covering Akuyreri, Selfoss, Vik, Hofn and beyond, click here.

Iceland In July | Why Summer's The Best Time To Visit Iceland - Summer In Iceland

Hostels In Iceland

  • Fálkinn Guesthouse
  • Loft – HI Hostel
  • B47
  • Galaxy Pod Hostel
  • Lækur Hostel
  • B14 Hostel

Budget Hotels In Iceland

  • Kvosin Downtown Hotel
  • 105 A Townhouse Hotel
  • Hotel Lotus
  • The Swan House
  • Tower Suites Reykjavik

Mid- Range Hotels In Iceland

  • Storm Hotel By Keahotels
  • Grimur Hotel
  • Hotel Klettur
  • Fosshotel Lind
  • Nordurey Hotel Reykjavik

Luxury Hotels In Iceland

  • ION City Hotel
  • Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel
  • Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel
  • Center Hotel Midgardur
  • Hotel Odinsve

 

 

 

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Iceland In July | Why Summer's The Best Time To Visit Iceland - Summer In Iceland  

Filed Under: City Guides Tagged With: Europe, Iceland, Reykjavik

Exploring Reynisfjara Beach & Vik Iceland – Plus Things To Do In Vik

March 7, 2018 by admin 13 Comments

Reynisfjara Beach & Vik Iceland

Vik Iceland Church – Also used an earthquake and natural disaster meeting point.

 

No visit to Iceland is complete without checking out Reynisfjara Beach aka Black Sand Beach in addition to exploring the same town that is Vik Iceland. Below I take you on a journey of what to see and where to stay in this cute little town. You will most like be passing through Vik to get to Jokulsarlon and Diamond Beach lagoon in addition to Svinafellsjokull Glacier. We had rented a camper van so we had stopped in Vik for an overnight stay before we drove towards the glacier lagoons further on the ring road.

 

On the way back from the exploring glaciers we had more time to dedicate to Vik Iceland. Visiting the church, the shops, and restaurants, beaches and around this small town, in addition to the puffin birds on black sand beach. I have split the post in two to make it easier to see what is available in Vik and on Reynisfjara Beach. If you are doing a self-guided tour of Iceland you have the flexibility to make as many stops as you like, we really enjoyed exploring Iceland by campervan, it also meant that we could stop at whatever time we wanted.

 

Believe it or not, the pictures of Reynisfjara Beach were taken around 9-10pm. Iceland in the summer is truly magic as it doesn’t get dark until a 1am so if you are exploring via campervan or car rental their is the added benefit of exploring way past the hours when most tours run which means you will have these places to yourself, still with plenty of good light to take great pictures.

 

While the below might be perfect if you are self-driving in Iceland you can also see these places in many of the tours and day trips in Iceland, the majority of them leaving from Reykjavik. You can read more about our campervan adventures in Iceland in my recent blog post which also has tips for exploring by campervan in addition to tips when renting or hiring one.

 

Also See: 

  • Sleeping Under Waterfalls In Iceland
  • A Guide To Exploring Iceland By Camper Van
  • Exploring Iceland’s Glacier Lagoon
  • Top Tips For Visiting The Blue Lagoon

 

 

Reynisfjara Beach & Vik Iceland

Reynisfjara Beach & Vik Iceland

 

Exploring Vik Iceland

Vik is right along Route 1 or Ring Road as its famously known, so you definitely won’t be able to miss it with its famous cliff faces seen from the road. There are a few activities around especially if you want to make this a longer stop as well as multiple forms of accommodation options to choose from. Vik also has one gas station so if you are exploring via car its best to fill up as the gas stations are spread out and some are not guaranteed to be open.

 

Things To Do In Vik Iceland

  • Vik i Myrdal Church – Little church situated on top of a hill, offering picturesque views of the ocean & town. You can see this below. This can be spotted as you drive through Route 1. You can spot our little campervan next to the church in one of the pictures.
  • Sudur Vik Iceland Restaurant- Opens and until 9pm – This is perfect as if you are driving late you have a few places still open including this one. A few of the hotels and the campsite in Vik have restaurants of cafes on site.

  • Horse Adventure – Explore the black sand beaches of Iceland by horse in a 30-40 minute tour of the surrounding area.
  • True Adventure – Paragliding and zip lining adventure above mountains, waterfalls, and beaches Iceland.

 

 

Where to Stay In Vik | Tips On Vik Iceland Hotels

 

If you are looking for accommodation near Vik in Iceland, just bear in mind that Vik is fairly small so in the summer these places sell out fairly quickly but there are various options depending on budget, comfort and size of your group. Majority of these will have mountain or beach views. Vik is so beautiful, quiet and peaceful making it the perfect stop to chill and relax after all the exploring and driving between tourist sights and wonders in the land of fire and ice.

 

  • Vik Iceland Camping:  – If you have a campervan there is plenty of room to park and set up your little outdoor eating and chilling area. On the campsite you have a small cafe with self-service equipment too(microwave, kettle), there are toilets and showers on site too. If you have a normal rental car you can also park up and pitch your tent on site too.
  • Vik Hotels: – Puffin Hotel, Hotel Katla, Hotel Kria, Kósý Vík, and Icelandair Hotel
  • Vik Guesthouses: – Dream Guesthouse, Carina Guesthouse, Galleri Guesthouse, and Skammidalur Guesthouse.
     
  • Apartments: – Puffin Vikurbraut Apartment and Puffin Bakkabraut Apartment
  • Vik Home Stay: – Einarsstadir Homestay, Sunnubraut Holiday Home.

 

Reynisfjara Beach & Vik Iceland - Why You Shouldn't Miss These Two Stops

Reynisfjara Beach & Vik Iceland - Why You Shouldn't Miss These Two Stops

Reynisfjara Beach & Vik Iceland

 

Reynisfjara Beach – Black Sand Beach in Iceland

 

Things To Do On Reynisfjara Beach:

 

Reynisfjara is a world-famous black-sand beach found on the South Coast of Iceland, just beside the small fishing village of Vík í Mýrdal. Also see my guide on the best black sand beaches in Iceland. This is the quieter side of Vik as you only have a couple of hostels and people mainly come here for the black sand beach. There is a restaurant on site with a small shop and some toilets should you need them.

 

Right on the beach, you will find the enormous basalt stacks, roaring Atlantic waves and stunning panoramas, Reynisfjara is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Make no mistake as beautiful and inviting the beautiful waves on this volcanic beach are, they are also dangerous with rip tides. There have been a few tourists dying and being swept away by the tide.

 

One, in particular, was only last year of a woman swept away while visiting with her husband and two kids who I hope didn’t witness the death of their mother. Enjoy the beach and surrounding cliffing without risking it all for the ‘gram.

 

  • Puffin Birds – There are plenty or puffin bird tours in Iceland but if you are self-driving you can easily find these on the Reynisfjara Beach. There are plenty to look and most of them will be pirched up high on the cliffs they will be on the beach as well and be flying over your head. I am gutted that by the time I started taking pictures of them it was getting dark and I had left one of my zoom lenses in the car and couldn’t be bothered to walk back to the car, but if you look carefully you can make them out in one of the pictures below.
  • Hálsanefshellir Cave –  in the Reynisfjara Beach is one of the prime attractions of the world-famous black sand beach near Vik. The basalt columns on the cliff face are really amazing and so characteristic of Iceland as I have not seen this kind of structure anywhere in the world.
  • Black Beach Restaurant  –  offers local foods and services coupled with unforgettable views of the splendid shoreline and the power of the ocean. The restaurant was founded by five local farmers who own the land surrounding the beach. With the steady increase of visitors, a lack of facilities became more and more apparent. Guðni Einarsson, one of the owners, says that they all agreed that they did not want to tarnish the pure landscapes and decided on a design that would blend in with the landscape and even utilise it for construction materials. The walls and floors are thus covered with gravel from the beach, which gives the restaurant added character. Open daily from 11am – 6pm. Open even on Christmas!

 

Reynisfjara Beach & Vik Iceland Reynisfjara Beach & Vik Iceland

 

Where To Stay Near Reynisfjara?

 

  • Black Beach Suites – Beautiful self-contained suites with amazing views. Offering a sun terrace and views of the sea, Black Beach Suites is situated in Vík in the South Iceland Region. Reynishverfisvegur Beach is within 2.5 miles of the property. Free WiFi is available.
  • Reynir Guesthouse – Situated 1.2 miles from Reynishverfi Beach, this family-run guest house is 5 miles from Vik village. It offers basic rooms with a seating area and work desk. Some rooms feature sea views.

 

 vik iceland black beach Reynisfjara Beach & Vik Iceland  Reynisfjara Beach & Vik Iceland

 

 



Booking.com

 

More on Iceland:

  • Exploring The Glacier Lagoon
  • Everything You Need To Know About Exploring Iceland By Campervan
  • Iceland Packing List | What To Pack For Iceland
  • Tips For Visiting The Blue Lagoon

 

 

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Visiting Vik Iceland/Reynisfjara Iceland - From What To See In Vik Iceland, Visiting Vik Beach Iceland and Where To Stay In Vik Visiting Vik Iceland/Reynisfjara Iceland - From What To See In Vik Iceland, Visiting Vik Beach Iceland and Where To Stay In Vik - Black Sand Beach Vik Iceland

Filed Under: Adventure Tagged With: Europe, Iceland, Reykjavik, Vik

Iceland Packing List | What To Wear In Iceland In Summer & Winter

February 20, 2018 by admin 21 Comments

 

Iceland is a magical place! With the constant weather changes even in summer, knowing what to wear in Iceland as well as what to pack for Iceland is an important part of your trip planning for the country visit. Below you will find tips to help with your Iceland packing list plans.

 

Iceland ranks at the top of naturally beautiful countries of the world, with some of the most hospitable people. Now, Iceland is a land of spectacular scenery, but the weather is highly unpredictable and can become extreme.

So if you are planning to visit Iceland, you need to pack for rain, sun, snow, and the wind, and you need to pack smart because you can’t pack everything.

 

 

Iceland Packing List At A Glance

 

Iceland has two main seasons; winter and summer. Winter in Iceland start at the end of October and ends in mid-April. The rest is summer! Not as you and I know it though. There are 26 weeks of winter and 26 weeks of summer in Iceland.  Both are cold but winter it’s even colder.

Remember that the average summer temperature in Iceland can be  10-13 degrees with the highest at around 20, while winter temperatures can be as low as -10 degrees with the Northern part of Iceland recording as low at -25 degrees in some winters.

I shared a post with tips and tricks on everything you need to know about experiencing Iceland by Campervan. I thought I would now share tips on what to wear and what to pack for a trip to Iceland.

 

I have tried to split this so its easier to see what to pack in terms or a short trip to Iceland by way of your essentials and city exploring, Blue Lagoon, Iceland layover(the same if doing a golden circle tour)  and then details for gadgets, outwear, backpacks, warm clothing for people staying in Iceland a little bit longer and embarking on active itineraries, hiking, glacier walks etc.

 

 

Iceland Packing List Essentials At A Glance

  • Wool-mix layers – The weather is unpredictable to you be peeling layers when you warm up.
  • Thermals – Essential at all times of the year. 
  • Jacket – You will at best need 2 jackets one for normal exploring and another waterproof.
  • Waterproof shoes – Iceland can be cold and wet even when visiting Iceland in Summer so waterproof will take you a long way.

 

  • Power bank – With the cold most phone and camera batteries lose charge quickly so this is a must-pack item on your Iceland packing list.
  • Swimsuit – You will most likely want to visit the Blue Lagoon and the many hot springs in Iceland.
  • Camera – Iceland is a beautiful country and something worth capturing on every corner so always make sure your cameras are charged. If you have a drone don’t forget to bring that too.
  • Extra SD cards – Essential!! As I said Iceland is stunning and something to photograph on every corner so you will likely run out of SD memory, especially if like me take to shoot RAW.

 

  • Extra camera batteries – As I said, the cold will suck out your batteries like nothing else so if not using them keep in the bag and out of the cold but either way you will need extras.
  • Backpack – A day bag is essential! You will park your car and go exploring you will most likely need something big enough for camera gear and snacks obvs!

 

  • Extra pairs of socks – possibly wool mix or fleece based as it’s gets super cold even in summer. Yes, even when you are cold in Iceland you will find that you will get sweaty and your socks will get wet. Always keep a pair in your backpack too.
  • Mosquito repellent – must if exploring in the summer near lakes.
  • Sun protection – Winter or summer this is a must.

 

 

What To Wear In Iceland | Your Essentials For Iceland

 

Layers and Thermals

Owning a quality coat or jacket is one thing, but what you wear underneath also counts. Irrespective of the time of year you are visiting Iceland, you will still need some layers of clothing to keep yourself warm, dry and comfortable. Pack at least 2 thermal tops and leggings. Also include wool sweaters, two fleece jackets, wool socks, and long sleeve shirts.

 

You can also pack a pair of long thermal underwear to keep your legs warm during outdoor activities such as hiking. If you are visiting in the summer, you will still need your thermals!

It gets warm but the weather in Iceland changes dramatically from location to location. Remember this little island country is filled with glaciers, geysers, and volcanoes so all of those things play a role in the mish-mash of constant weather changes.

 

 

Outerwear  – Jackets for Iceland

If you are making your trip in the summer, pack a warm but lightweight jacket that can give you enough warmth in the Iceland summer. Also, remember to pack a rain jacket because it rains in Iceland throughout the year.

Both my husband and I swear by our Mountain Equipment jackets. You may have seen these jackets feature on posts on Trolltunga and Snowdonia. They are one of the best selling and multi-award winning GORE-TEX® Pro jacket for mountaineering.

They are super light but incredibly warm and provide weather protection for those that head into the mountains whatever the weather. For more tips on the best jackets for Iceland weather read my post.

 

They will keep you dry during Iceland’s wet weather as well as keep you warm without the need for a heavy coat or raincoat. Perfect whether battling blizzards on a Scottish winter, Iceland’s unpredictable weather or hiking Trolltunda overnight.

You can also pack the winter coat like I did for city exploring too if you want to stay warm while exploring Iceland, as temperatures can drop to freezing point in some months. For your pants, waterproof pants are perfect as they will keep you warm and dry.

 

Pack a pair of snow pants for the winter season and one or two pairs of denim for indoors. Remember not to wear denim on an outdoor trip! You will thank me.

Gloves to keep your hands warm, scarves and knit beanie hat to keep your head warm and protect your ears from the frigid cold and strong winds of Iceland. You might also need to bring your sunglasses because of the hazy conditions, and a sunscreen might be helpful if the sun decides to brighten your holiday.

 

Mens and Ladies Jackets

 

 

 

What To Wear In Reykjavik

what to wear in iceland | what to pack for iceland

 

When exploring Reykjavik, your clothing doesn’t need to be as drastic as what you need to pack when heading towards places like glacier lagoons and glaciers along the Ring Road.

The city can be a little warmer because of lights, the population in much the same way London is doesn’t get a cold as the rest of the UK due to many factors like dense population for one.

 

Reykjavik’s is very much like that. We visited in the summer and the weather although warm compared to how cold Iceland can get it still does get cold so you can still wear your normal clothes I would still recommend packing thermals for under clothes comfort and warmth. Warm jumpers are a key investment in any wardrobe, both men, and women. In addition to jumper dresses for the ladies.

 

I packed a pair of Camper boots which come with fur on the inside. Stylish and cozy all in one. The pictures below were taken in July. Although it does not look like it I am layered up in thermals, a jumper dress and super warm Camper boots and a wool coat. Yes, this is summer in Iceland!

 

what to wear in iceland | what to pack for iceland

 

 

What to Pack For The Blue Lagoon And Hot Spring Pools

 

what to wear in iceland | what to pack for iceland - Blue Lagoon

 

Swimwear

Iceland has many thermal pools that are popular among tourists. In fact, your trip is not complete if you didn’t visit one of them, the Blue Lagoon in particular or the beautiful hidden seljavallalaug pool in the mountains.

Don’talso forget to pack plenty of swimwear including hair and beauty products.

 

The minerals in the blue lagoon is super drying for the hair. I would highly recommend packing hair treatment products like Phyto or Aveda hair travel kits to fit damage to hair for after you visit the Blue Lagoon.

Pack a quick drying towel for when you visit Seljavallalaug pool as there is nothing in terms of service in that location.

 

 

Mens and Ladies Travel Kits

 

 

 

 

Beauty Products

You should remember to pack things such as moisturizers, lip balm, hand cream, and so on to protect your skin from the cold weather.

There are plenty of travel hair beauty kits that cater to sensitive, dry and oily hair and skin. With the cold and wet weather in Iceland, especially if you are visiting Iceland over a week or even two. Stock up on decent skin care to protect your skin while exploring.

 

 

What To Wear Hiking and Walking In Iceland  | What Shoes Do You Need For Iceland?

 

Footwear for Iceland

Iceland is a wet country, and the landscape is varied, so you must remember to buy quality water-resistant hiking shoes. I have a complete guide to the best hiking shoes for Iceland on the blog.

Also consider waterproof pants and waterproof jacket if you are going to be doing something more adventurous. You could take along a pair of boots too.

As I said above, although I took Camper boots these were also warm but these also double as walking boots because of the sole. I would recommend packing something with fur or wool lined boots like Ugg or  Camper, and  Sorel.

 

 

Mens and Ladies Winter Boots

 

 

 

Other Items to Consider When Packing For Iceland

 

Thermos Flask and Reusable Water bottle – Pack a thermos for hot drinks and a reusable water bottle for Iceland’s pure drinking water.

 

Emergency kit –  Some of the essentials you should pack include pain relievers, motion sickness pills, Band-Aids, sterile gauze pads, hand sanitizers, pocket tissue and so on.

I pack one for any adventures that include a little of outdoor activities in much the same way Iceland is very much one of those countries that will center around outdoor activities whether you are exploring glaciers, walking along slippery waterfalls. An emergency kit should be part of your packing list for Iceland.

 

Day bag or Backpack – Pack a small day bag or backpack where you can throw things such as your camera, gloves, knit hat, water bottles, etc. You might also want to make sure this is waterproof too if possible.

It rains a lot in Iceland and you want all your gadgets dry!  With everything safely in your day bag or backpack, you can keep it somewhere and continue exploring glaciers or waterfalls conveniently.

 

Head Torch – You will definitely need this for when you arrive at campsites at night if you camping in Iceland or just heading out to places like the hidden mountain pool whose changing rooms have no lights.

 

Wool Hats, Socks and Scarves – No need to explain why it’s important to pack some thermal socks, wool hats,  decent winter scarves as well as the best gloves for Iceland weather. You need them for both Summer and Winter in Iceland. More so for Winter travels.

 

Guide Books – Lonely Planet’s Guide to Iceland, Marco Polo Guide to Iceland (with pullout map), A Rough Guide to Iceland and National Geographic’s Iceland AdventureMap.

 

Travel Backpacks (Include waterproof backpacks)

 

 

Gadget and Technology

Iceland has many hidden gems to explore and experience and with that in mind, you will be to capture it. I would highly recommend packing additional batteries for your Nikon or Canon cameras.

I have at least 3 spare batteries for my DSLR.  Pack a power bank in addition to in-car multi-port USB charger. Consider packing a phone drybag, power cube so you can charge many of your gadgets when you don’t have Many power sockets.

 

Photography Equipment

A DSLR camera – Most of you know that I have a Nikon DSLR but for those that like the camera on the lighter side check out Sony A6000,  Fujifilm X-T2  or Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II ,  which are all super light and take amazing shots and you don’t have to carry a heavier Canon/ Nikon DSLR. I will try and do a travel camera post on the best cameras for travel soon.

 

Drone – I currently have a DJI Phantom 3 Pro  which I took with me to Russia(post to come soon), I have just upgraded to a DJI Marvi Pro which I am hoping to take to Israel next month as its just a lot easier to pack and travel with than the Phantom 3.

Both take amazing footage but for me if you are going to be traveling a lot with your drone I would really recommend getting the Marvic Pro or Marvic air which is smaller.

 

GoPro and Accessories – For our trip to Iceland with the spray from waterfalls and the rain you will either need a decent cover for your DSLR camera or a camera with an easy waterproof case. In my case I used my Nikon and GoPro interchangeably. In most of my Iceland pictures, you will not even notice which pictures were taken with which camera as the quality for the GoPro for both video and image are really good.

Camera Stabilizers/Gimbal– A great addition to your kit if you want smoother videos.

 

SD Cards – You have no idea the photo opportunity that awaits you in Iceland. Be sure to pack extra SD Cards.

 

Filters – Whether you want to counter the harsh light during the day or want to add a touch of tone to your images then consider packing some filters. You can see some of the effects from some of my images taken at the Glacier Lagoon on Jokulsarlon.

 

Chargers – Additional chargers and batteries are a must. Most camera batteries are made from Lithium-ion and these lose their charge quickly in cold conditions so Iceland being super cold. Your battery life may be unusually shorter so when not using your camera then keep it in a camera bag to preserve battery life. That goes for your phones to with are made with the same type of battery.

 

Camera cleaning products – If like me you carry several camera lenses, then consider packing some microfiber cloths and camera cleaning kit.

 

 

What Wear In Iceland In Summer (April, May, June, July & September)

 

Summer in Iceland starts from mid-April to the end of October. Yes there are 26 weeks of summer in Iceland. Summer is one of the best times to visit Iceland as the weather although unpredictable can be pleasant compared to winter in Iceland.

Also a plus is that the days are long meaning longer time to explore. That being said you still need to know what to pack for Iceland in summer and how that differs from other countries.

 

Summer in Iceland in some ways can be like London in that yes it also rains in summer. Temperature is usually above 10°C and can be as high as 20°C but this is very unusual. Below is a packing list for Iceland in Summer

 

Iceland Summer Packing List

  • Swimsuit
  • Gloves – Only in Iceland do you need to pack swimsuit and gloves but it can be cold some days.
  • Thermals – essential especially if you are visiting northern parts which are colder than the south.
  • Sunscreen
  • Hiking or walking boots
  • Jacket
  • Beauty and feminine products
  • Mosquito repellent
  • Socks
  • Gadgets

 

 

What To Wear In Iceland In Winter (October, November, December, January, February, March)

Wint in Iceland starts from end of October to Mid April. Make sure you are familiar with good packing list for a cold-weather trip as winter in Iceland is nothing like winter in say London. The other thing to contend with considering travel essentials for winter is how many hours of daylight in Iceland there is in winter.

 

If you are planning on walking or hiking of some sort pack a torch or head torch because the days are super short. Sunrise can be as later at 9am and sunset at 5.30pm. So basically the day is as short as a shift at work.

If you are wondering what clothes to take to Iceland in Iceland or what to wear in Reykjavik in January, December or November below is and essentials Iceland winter packing list.

Also remember that temperatures in Reykjavík can drop down to about -10°C, with a high of almost 10 °C in winter so come prepared with warm clothes as it will be very expensive to replace in Iceland.

 

 

Iceland Winter Packing List

  • Gloves – for more details see my post on best options here.
  • Hand warmers (must!)
  • Waterproof  fleece or wool-lined boots
  • Waterproof walking pants
  • Thermals – for additional tips see my tips for thermal clothing for Iceland.
  • Warm socks
  • Fleece jumper
  • Gadgets as above
  • Torch
  • Jumper dresses
  • Jacket – for additional tips on jackets to wear in Iceland see my guide on best jackets for Iceland in winter.
  • Swimsuit – because its super cold so you will want to check out the hot spring pools.

 

More on Iceland

  • Guide to exploring Iceland by Campervan – With tips on booking camper vans in Iceland
  • How to find Iceland’s hidden pool in the mountains
  • Sleeping Under waterfalls plus how to find the hidden waterfall
  • The Best Areas To Stay In Reykjavik
 
 
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what to wear in iceland - Iceland Packing List PLUS - Everything you need to know about what to pack for a trip to Iceland. Tips on the best times to visit and temperatures by month. Essential items you need to pack for Iceland whatever month you visit Iceland. #packingtips #traveltips #iceland #golderncircle #bluelagoon #itsallbee what to wear in iceland - Everything you need to know about what to pack for a trip to Iceland. Tips on the best times to visit and temperatures by month. Essential items you need to pack for Iceland whatever month you visit Iceland. #packingtips #traveltips #iceland #golderncircle #bluelagoon #itsallbee
 

Filed Under: Packing List Guides Tagged With: Europe, Iceland, Reykjavik

Exploring By Campervan In Iceland | 5 Reasons To Experience Iceland Camper

February 10, 2018 by admin 24 Comments

Campervan Iceland | 5 Reasons Why This Is The Best Way To Experience Iceland

 

Exploring Iceland by campervan was one of my top bucket list items. There are moments when you see pictures from around the world and you just think I have to see and experience that place for myself. An experience of the Iceland campervan holiday is very much one of those things I wanted to experience for myself.

 

I have seen many pictures and thought to myself. Seeing is believing. I have to visit Iceland for myself. Experience the sounds, smells and views for myself. See and walk across the glaciers, smell the sulfur-infused air of Geysir, sleep next to beautiful waterfalls, chill out in the warm waters of The Blue Lagoon while a mineral mask attempts to preserve my youth.

 

Visiting Iceland was everything that I thought it would be. Just an out of this world experience with landscapes that truly just take your breath away. Yes, you can sample Iceland on a layover but nothing beats a slower experience of a journey around Iceland’s Ring Road. We had a couple of days and a long list of things to do in Reykjavik. I shared a post on whale watching experience recently. As we explored Iceland via a combination of campervan and car rental. With that in mind, I thought I could share a couple of tips on why exploring Iceland by Campervan is a must!

 

Exploring Iceland by Campervan allows you to paces yourself and make as many stops as your heart desires. Trust me there are plenty sights in Iceland that you won’t even have considered but see them from the Ring Road and you are stopped in your tracks to explore. Svinafellsjokull Glacier was exactly that, an unplanned stop that we definitely didn’t regret.

 

We actually hadn’t even thought that you could come this close to a glacier without having a tour guide. You can definitely explore the surrounding area but just be careful and resist the urge to be MacGyver or Wonderwoman and you will be fine.

 

A lot of the tours pick and chose which spots to stop at, whereas renting a camper van in Iceland allows you the freedom to pick and choose where to spend the night, the flexibility in your itinerary. Iceland is beautiful and you will find it hard not to want to stop every five minutes. I would so love to return again, this time with my DJI drone though.

 

Below I share some of the benefits to exploring Iceland by Campervan together with plenty of tips for when you rent or hire a campervan in Iceland. Most of these tips also apply if you are renting a car to do your Iceland exploring. So as not to overwhelm and cram too much into the post, I will do another post on what to pack when visiting Iceland.

 

Also See:

  • What To Pack For Iceland
  • Tips For Visiting The Blue Lagoon
  • A Weekend In Norway’s Bergen
  • Camping To Norway’s Fjord View
  • How To See Florence In One Day

 

Iceland Campervan Holiday Tips  – First things first! Book Well In Advance

 

Iceland is pretty popular and if you are going in the summer then you will most like need to have started looking at car rentals and campervan rentals in Iceland right about now. I have shared tips on finding the cheapest rental camper in Iceland. There is a lot of interest in Iceland so whether you are looking for hotels, hostels, and apartments in Iceland you need to book well in advance because they sell out fast. Iceland is expensive so booking early means you have plenty of choices.

 

If you leave it to late, they either run out of campervan rentals and you will have to come up with other plans to explore. So to avoid disappointment book as soon as you have decided on a trip to Iceland or at least as soon as you have bought your flights. Check out AutoEurope, HappyCampers or GoCampers for the best rates.

 

Campervan Iceland | 5 Reasons Why This Is The Best Way To Experience Iceland

 

Benefits of Exploring Iceland By Campervan

 

1. Flexibility in your itinerary.

The fact that you can make as many stops as you like without incurring any additional cost for tours is a a huge bonus. You can add and remove sights and spend as much time as you like in a spot is an added benefit to exploring Iceland by campervan or car rental. You can be as spontaneous as you want. We had plenty of unplanned stops on the Ring Road that not many tours in Iceland cater to.

 

We stopped at Iceland’s hidden pool in the mountain which not a lot of tours stop at but perfect if you have your own car you can go any time of day. We went back to Skogafoss twice and made stops to Vik and black sand beach at 9 pm (summer in Iceland its doesn’t get dark until midnight). Exploring Iceland by campervan or car rental means you are not tied to a particular tour itinerary time when you can see places.

 

 

 

2. You will save money on hotels as you can sleep almost anywhere in the camper van.

There are lots of places in Iceland you can park your campervan. From sleeping to the sound of waterfalls on camping sites with a view of the beach to having beautiful mountain backdrops when you wake up in the morning. There are many more places in Iceland where you can pitch a tent or park your campervan but just respectful of the local land and not be one of those just pitching a tent on the side of the road which creates a hazard for other motorists.

 

Majority of the campsites have access to showers and toilets to refresh yourself. Some also have restaurants nearby to grab some food if you get tired of cooking on the little gas cooker provided with the campervan. You can also book hotels in major cities and towns along the way especially if you are doing the full circle of the Ring Road. Hotel stops in Reykjavik, Akureyri, Keflavik or Vik.

 

3. Tours only have an allocated time they can spend on a tourist spot.

 

Another benefit and freedom of Iceland campervan holidays. If you are exploring by campervan or car rental you choose how long when you come and how long you stay there. One of the best reasons for me, though, is avoiding the tourist crowds all together sometimes. You can have the beautiful waterfalls all to yourself at sunrise. Just amazing how calming the endless volumes of water flowing from a great hight can be. I could have watched Seljalandsfoss falls forever and a day but alas we had to move on to Vik!

 

There is a plenty of activities in Iceland that you can combine with a self-guided tour of Iceland by Campervan. Tours like glacier hiking, ice climbing, helicopter ride, scuba diving, ice caves, snowmobiles, whale watching, snowboarding are all tours that you can do while exploring by campervan and cannot do on your own self-guided tour of the country as they require additional equipment. Check out Get your Guide or Viator for Iceland tours.

 

 

 

4. You can explore into the wee hours of the night.

The beauty of visiting Iceland during the summer months is that you get to experience the white nights. Which means you can explore until your little eyes can’t stay open anymore. With the sun sometimes setting at midnight or 1 am there is still enough light to see and experience many places most of which you can explore without crowds as the tours don’t run late into the night. Just a note though when exploring by campervan.

 

Make sure you switch driving to allow each other to take breaks from the wheels. Also, try to get as much sleep as you can to reduces any risks of accidents. As I said we stopped in Vik and the black sand beach in the evening with hardly any crowds, the same with Skogafoss, Gullfoss as well as exploring Reykjavik late in the evening without any crowds. I would highly recommend experiencing Iceland in the summer unless you are heading for Northern Lights in which case you need to travel during a specific season.

 

 

VIK ICELAND - Campervan Iceland | 5 Reasons Why This Is The Best Way To Experience Iceland

 

5. Save money on food.

Restaurants are few and far between. You basically have your little restaurant on wheels. You can stop in the middle of nowhere, make food and enjoy lunch with breathtaking views of Iceland.

 

Additional Tips When Exploring Iceland by Campervan

Below are some things to consider when renting a campervan in Iceland but also if you are going to be campervanning around Europe check out these tips.

Drive Cautiously – Some roads in Iceland can be narrow and some have gravel which can damage screens and dent cars (you may be liable for damage).

Insurance – Make sure the car rental includes insurance. It might be an additional expense to the rental but considering some of the terrain and unpredictable weather in Iceland. It an added peace of mind to know that if anything happens you are covered. This is in addition to making sure you have travel insurance too.

Check the Car Condition – Like any car rental, check the car for dents and damage before you leave. Also, make sure the car has a full tank of gas. When we book our car we were given a car with a quarter tank. Forgot to check this until we started driving. I took a picture of this and emailed it to them just as left. Our rental came with internet MIFI so it was easier to let them know that the car was not going to be rented with a full tank –  gas in Iceland is super expensive!

Check camper equipment and supplies – Before you hire a campervan check what is included. Most of the rentals will include a mattress, pillows, cooking equipment and standard utensils.  You also do get the option to add extras like outdoor table and chairs, thermal sleeping bags, fridge… check with your rental what is included and when you pick up your rental make sure all these things are in the car as the last thing you want is to be all the way in Vik when you realise that they didn’t include something. Most importantly make sure you have curtains for the back of the van as this is another item that they forgot to give us. We were already halfway across the Ring Road to bother coming back for them.

Camping Grounds – You will most likely need to stay on camping grounds when you make stops along the Ring Road just note that some or most of these will be closed during some of the Winter months. They do however leave gates open should visitors wish to use the camping grounds. There is plenty of information on camping grounds in Iceland.

Petrol/ Gas Stations – There are plenty of gas stations along the Ring Road but make sure you fill up the van/car as and when you see a gas station as there is no guarantee the next one will be open.(We did experience this.) Below is a map of gas stations around.

 

 

 

Campervan Iceland | 5 Reasons Why This Is The Best Way To Experience Iceland

Buy groceries before leaving Reykjavik and save money – Yes, Iceland can be expensive but if you know when and where to save its not really that bad at all in my opinion. Exploring by campervan means that you get to cook your own food and buy the old burger and coffee here and there on your stops around the Ring Road.

 

Depending on where you are collecting your campervan in Iceland, I would highly recommend loading up your little campervan with groceries before you leave. There are a few budget grocery stores in Reykjavik to stock up on food, snack, wipes and cleaning products( your will need to watch your utensils at some point).

 

There is Bonus, Kronan and Netto are all budget brands. Then you have Hagkaup, Iceland, and 10-11 are mid-range to somewhat expensive. We got introduced to Bonus by our host at the Airbnb place we rented for our first few days in Reykjavik, we stocked up on groceries before we left Reykjavik in our little campervan.

 

For more details on Iceland Supermarkets, IHeartReykjavik did a detailed post on supermarkets in Iceland to stock up on food and supplies. Stock up on nonperishable foods like canned food that you can easily prep meals like rice or pasta, breakfast cereals and bars so that you leave room for the small fridge for milk, cheese and other essentials.

 

Glacier Lagoon | Campervan Iceland | 5 Reasons Why This Is The Best Way To Experience Iceland

 

Iceland Campervan Packing Listing

 

Pack appropriate clothing – Iceland weather can be pretty unpredictable, even in the summer.

  • Pack plenty of thermals(you get to wear your normal clothes and still stay super cozy)
  • Warm and/or waterproof jackets,
  • A decent pair of hiking/walking shoes. 
  • A couple of pairs of sock

 

Tech packing list

Between my husband and I, we travel with quite a bit of gear and these all require charging. So invest in a multi-port car USB charger, pack additional batteries for cameras and other techs you have. Also, pack additional power bank changers for when you are on the go.

 

 

More On Iceland

  • How To Find Iceland’s Hidden Hot Spring In The Mountain
  • Exploring Svinafellsjokull Glacier
  • Sleeping Under Waterfalls In Iceland
  • Exploring The Glacier Lagoon

 

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Campervan Iceland | 5 Reasons Why This Is The Best Way To Experience Iceland

 

 

Filed Under: Adventure Tagged With: Europe, Iceland, Reykjavik

11 Perfect Weekend Trips from London To Europe And Beyond

February 7, 2018 by admin 14 Comments

 
 
Another new year has begun and with it so many plans to get out there and explore the world. How many of you have told yourselves that you will travel more in the new year?
 
Well, we are in it now! Whether you live in London, around the UK or coming to Britain for a visit make sure you take the opportunity to explore surrounding European countries as London offers the perfect base for ‘Epic Weekends Out of London.
 
 
With RyanAir, EasyJet, BA and many other airline offering great deals, there is really no excuse to see the rest of Europe or the world for that matter. I am also throwing in a few destinations within the UK too.
 
So 2015 is here and what better way to get you on your new year’s resolution of traveling more. With Valentine’s day coming soon, if you haven’t already booked a Valentine’s Day getaway then hopefully these will give you inspiration.
 
 
I have teamed up with global travelers to bring you 10 of the most kick-us weekend getaways that will have you chilled, partied up, feed your burning wanderlust and bring you back all relaxed and feeling super fresh.
 
So whether you are after a bit of a romantic weekend, a bit of weekend adventure or just some much needed “away from it all” weekend then check out the destinations below. Dont forget to pin them to your Pinterest wanderlust board!
 

Cool Ideas For The Best Weekend Out Of London

 

1. Budapest – Hungary

1O Epic Weekends Out of London
 
Escape to central Europe and explore the beautiful city of Budapest, Hungary. Wander the historic streets of the Castle District, enjoy beautiful views from the top of Gellert Hill or get up close to the mummified right hand of the first king of Hungary in St.
 
Stephen’s Basilica. A city built on thermal waters, achieve ultimate relaxation on your weekend getaway by soaking in one of Budapest’s thermal spas. Szechenyi Baths (Állatkerti körút 9-11) is Europe’s largest medicinal bath and is inside a beautiful building worth exploring.
 
 
Eat at Belvárosi Lugas Vendéglő (Bajcsy-Zsilinszky út 15/A), located right behind St. Stephen’s Basilica, which offers traditional Hungarian food at good prices. Enjoy a drink or two at one of Budapest’s wine bars. DiVino Borbár (Szent István tér 3) which overlooks the square outside St. Stephen’s Basilica is a great option with a large selection of wine and people watching prospects. Or consider wandering the rooms and admiring the eclectic decorations at Szimpla Kert (Kazinczy utca 14), the most famous ruin bar in Budapest and a must visit.
 
Rest your head at the Wombats City Hostel (Király utca 20). Centrally located with great prices for both dorm or private rooms, the staff are friendly and helpful, plus the hostel offers plenty of activities. Budapest is a fantastic city to getaway for a weekend. The city is full of history, delicious food and drink and lots of opportunities for great memories and adventure.
Hungarian travel inspiration from Adelina. Follow her travels at Packmeto
 
 
Also Read: Things To Do In Budapest In Winter | What To Pack For A Trip To Budapest
 

2. Lisbon – Portugal

1O Epic Weekends Out of London
 
Easily accessible in less than three hours from London, the capital city of Portugal may be the perfect destination for a quick weekend trip. What’s not to love about Lisbon? Stunning architecture, delicious food, warm temperatures, all in a city that will make you wander around its streets for hours and hours.
 
You can visit the famous Belem Tower, taste pasteis de nata (two, three…or more!), admire the city from one of its many viewpoints (or as they are called, miradouro), have a glass of sangria or port wine and forget about all your worries.
 
What’s even better is that the city is located half an hour away from Cascais, a resort town by the Atlantic Ocean where you will definitely spend a few hours on a beautiful beach. And when your colleagues will ask you over coffee on Monday morning what you did during the weekend, you can just say “oh, not much, I swam in the ocean in Portugal”.

Portuguese travel inspiration from Vlad. Follow his travels at Efitimonholiday

 

Also Read: An itinerary for 3 days in Lisbon  | Places To Visit In Sintra | Best Areas To Stay In Lisbon

 

3. Istanbul – Turkey

 

11 Perfect Weekend Trips from London To Europe And Beyond 11 Perfect Weekend Trips from London To Europe And Beyond

 

Got 2 or 3 days and looking for an amazing weekend or long for a unique experience? Then Istanbul is the city to head to. A transcontinental city straddling both Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus Strait offering amazing food, historical sights, amazing the hustle and bustle of the Turkish city.

 

Whether you have a weekend in Istanbul or doing a 2 week trip to Turkey absolutely unmissable sights include the Grand Bazaar, Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Sultnhamment Cami, Galata Tower, and Taksim Square just to name a few.

 

A visit to Turkey is not complete of course without checking out the food, instagram-worthy cafes,  and top it all off with a visit to a Hammam spa. You can easily do a weekend in Istanbul.

With two airports in Istanbul served by many airlines leaving London, you can be in Istanbul with a direct flight from London within 3 hours and 40 minutes. Airlines such as Pegasus, British Airways and Turkish Airlines all have direct flights into Istanbul making a weekend city break from London to Istanbul easily do-able. If you find yourself wondering if Istanbul is safe see more tips in the linked post.

 

4. Edinburgh – Scotland

1O Epic Weekends Out of London
 
Scotland and more specifically, Edinburgh is just full of it! Full of amazing sights that is. It’s city reeking with historical charm and mystery from every corner you turn.
 
Most attractions are largely based on historic stories and legends, so don’t be surprised if within minutes of arriving into the city you see people dressed in custom with a crowd in tow as they lively tell tales of noble men and women that came before them.
 
So where does one even start in a city that’s full of it – full of beautiful sights to explore. For more, you can check out my top 10 things to do in Edinburgh.
 

Also Read: The Best UK Weekend Destinations | Why You Need To Visit The Witchery In Edinburgh

 

5. Brac Island Croatia

1O Epic Weekends Out of London

 

First of all, islands make a huge part of Croatian geographical and national identity. If you are coming to Croatia, you should definitely visit at least one Croatian island. And why not Brac?!

 

Tourism on Brac started in 1923 in Bol. Bol has, with Dubrovnik, and Opatija, one of the longest tourism history in Croatia. And along with few other destinations, like Rovinj, Split, Plitvice, Hvar, Korcula and Dubrovnik, Bol remains one of the most popular tourist destinations in Croatia (Don’t tell me you’ve thought it was the off the beaten path destination).

 

Zlatni Rat, famed beach in Bol, is perhaps the best known and the most beautiful beach in Croatia. Whether you are single or trying to do Croatia as a couple there is plenty for everyone.

 

As locals like to say, it isn’t the only beach here. The entire south side of the island of Brac is dotted with gorgeous pebble beaches. Pebbles here are small, soft to walk on, and perfectly rounded. And the best part is that, apart of Zlatni Rat, other beaches aren’t crowded at all, especially as you get out of Bol.

 

Islands seem to live at their own pace, and we always feel like stepping back in time when visiting any of Croatian islands. The veggies and fruits here taste better, their taste brings back childhood memories , olive oil is abundant here (Brac is particularly famous for its olive oil, lamb, sheep cheese, and mandarins), fresh fish is to die for.

Croatian travel inspiration from Frank and Vera. Follow there travels at FrankAboutCroatia

 

 

6. Stockholm – Sweden

1O Epic Weekends Out of London
 
Beautifully situated over 14 islands and connected by 57 bridges, it’s not surprising Stockholm is commonly referred to as the ‘Venice of the North’.
 
Scandinavia’s largest capital city is dressed in style, charm and romanticism, with something to see and do on every corner. Only two hours away by plane, Stockholm is an ideal weekend getaway from the UK.
 
You will discover a perfect blend of old and new as you explore the Old Town of Gamla Stan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest and most well-preserved medieval centres in Europe; walk further south to Södermalm to find contemporary Swedish design shops and hip pop-up bars and cafes, with most placing an emphasis on what’s local, delicious and sustainable.
 
Wherever you go, and from any angle, Stockholm exudes elegance and there is no better way to experience it than by boat, hopping from one island to the other from Stockholm’s archipelago. But boat isn’t the only favourable mode of transportation: hit the underground.
 
There’s a whole world beneath street level that begs for attention. To add a quirky, urban twist to this city, over 90 of the 100 underground stations have art work sprawling across the walls and tunnels, it’s something you have to see to believe. For the best examples visit the rainbow themed station at Stadion, the harlequin design at Kungsträdgården, and the hell inspired station at Solna Centrum!
Swedish travel inspiration from Shing. Follow her travels at TheCultureMap
 

Also Read: Top Things To Do In Stockholm In Winter | What To Pack For Stocholm In Winter

 

7. Amsterdam – Netherlands

1O Epic Weekends Out of London
 
 
 

If there is any high one must experience in Amsterdam its the High Wine Experiences in the heart of Nine Streets. Dylan Hotel is housed in a townhouse with a rich history and located on one of the most famous areas of Amsterdam; Nine Streets. A fashionable and unique shopping district with a mix of designer boutiques, from vintage to modern fashion, chic little cafes and restaurants in what is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

 

So if you are after a weekend with a difference then this is for you! Quite befitting of a place to house a stylish and luxury hotel that is the Dylan.  With darkness hitting the streets early on during this time of the year, the bridges around the canals come alive when the tunnels are beautifully lit up creating just the right ambiance for romantic evening strolls and the perfect ending for you and a loved one that will have lasting memories. For more check out my High Wine Experience At The Dylan post.

 

Also Read: Things To Do In Amsterdam In Winter | The Best Museums In Amsterdam | Romantic Things To Do In Amsterdam.

 

8. Mérida, Spain

1O Epic Weekends Out of London
 
A getaway to Spain’s Madrid, Seville are great but have you considered a trip to Mérida, the capital of Extramadura.  Originally called Emerita, Mérida was founded in 25 BC by emperor Augustus. After becoming the capital of the Roman province of Lusitania, it was once a very important city in the Roman Empire.
 
 
Mérida’s Roman ruins were placed on the UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1993 and are definitely worth seeing.  According to the Lonely Planet, it is “home to the most impressive and extensive Roman ruins in all Spain.”
 

Few things you can see in Mérida include the Teatro Romano and the  Anfiteatro. The Teatro Romano, built around 15 BC to seat 6000 spectators, it is still used as a theatre in the summer for performances of the Festival del Teatro Clásico. Anfiteatro Romano, located right next to Teatro Romano, the Roman Amphitheater was built in 8 B.C. for gladiatorial contests. It even could be flooded, to host naval battles.Spanish travel inspiration via Jolanta at Casual Traveler

 
 

 

9. Marrakech, Morocco

 

 

Marrakech has such great energy about it, the vibrant colours, the bustling souks, the aromas of the spices, all the delicious food and the hospitality of the people.Exploring the towns couldn’t be easier as there are many tours on offer, visiting Djemma El Fna introduces you to the beautiful architecture, the mosques and the colourful buildings you will lay your eyes on while strolling around the old towns.  Another item to add to your itinerary is the Atlas Mountain. Red earth, cactus plants, desert landscape with the snowcapped mountains in the background. People had warned us it wasn’t a place to go with children, but our two loved it. They loved having fresh orange juice everyday, as did we! – Samiya

 

We went to Africa last year. For the weekend! At first glance it sounds ridiculous but Morocco is a mere 4 hour flight away from the UK, a whole lot cheaper than Europe and far more exotic. In a single weekend in Marrakech we slept in riads straight out of 1001 nights, feasted like sultans on aromatic lamb tagines and cinnamon dusted pastries, and stepped back in time amongst the lantern-lit alleyways of the old medina.

 

We strolled around crumbling palaces still adorned with dazzling Moroccan zellij tiling, haggled hard in the bustling souks for babouche slippers that we’ll never actually wear, and dodged snake charmers and henna tattooists in the main square, Place Djemaa el Fna. We even found time to fit in a spot of hot air ballooning over the Atlas Mountains and joined locals feasting at the famous night market.  

 

By Monday morning we were back at work, hardly believing that just a few hours ago we’d been enjoying cool beers on the roof terrace of our favourite bar, overlooking the city walls glowing in the evening sun. You can experience Morocco in a weekend, but I guarantee once you’ve dipped your toes in the water you’ll want to return for more! –  Heather

Moroccan travel inspirations from Heather and Samiya. You can follow their travels at: SelimaFamilyRAASTAand Conversant Traveller

 

Also Read: How To Plan A Trip To Africa | An Itinerary For 15 Days In Namibia Botswana & Victoria Falls

 

 

 

10.  Cologne Germany

 

1O Epic Weekends Out of London
 
Germany is not known as a romantic destination so I was taken by surprise seeing all the beautiful locks on the Hohenzollern bridge. It appears the trend from Rome’s Milvian Bridge on the Tiber not only reached the Parisian Pont de l’Archevech on the Seine but made its way to Cologne as well. As trains rumble over the Hohenzollern bridge so do thousands of hearts as row after row of padlocks decorate the stretch across the river with messages of love.
 
Various shapes and colours of padlocks all engraved with names and dates of marriages, engagements combined add up to some 40,000+ padlocks hanging on what is now Germany’s Love Locks Bridge or perhaps the bridge of love as I call it. Considering the tradition in Cologne only started in 2008 the number of locks left here has grown and to 2 tons in weight, and has been weighing heavily on the hearts of many local officials who questioned how long this tradition can be sustained for.
 
After much protest from lovers in the city they have now decided that it will continue into the foreseeable future. So if you are up for a non-typical romantic trip then check out Cologne.  You can read more about my escape to Cologne here. Another city also worth checking out is Innsbruck, a city in one of Germany’s neighbouring countries. Check out things to do in Innsbruck by Travel Tyrol’s Linda.
 
 
Also Read: The Best Airbnbs In Innsbruck
 

11. Reykjavik, Iceland

 
1O Epic Weekends Out of London
 
Whether you have a desire to chase the Northern Lights, go whale watching or explore unusual cuisine, Reykavik is the perfect weekend getaway. Spend the morning wandering around the old harbour, the Sun Voyager and Harpa Concert Hall before heading further into town to stare at the uniquely formed Hallgrimskirkja Church.  Whilst here, make sure you take the lift up to the observation tower to see the city and surrounding mountains from above.
 
See: If you want to explore further afield, head out to see the famous geysirs and waterfalls that make up the Golden Circle.  Along this route, stop off at þingvellir National Park, a site of historical significance and beautiful vistas.  This is also the location of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge which is becoming increasingly popular with divers wanting to explore the crystal clear waters.
 
Do: Back in the city, as night falls, before heading in off search of the coveted Northern Lights head back towards the harbour to see the Harpa Concert Hall’s unique take on the Aurora Borealis.
A Must whilst in the city: Spend a morning at the Photography Museum on the first floor of the city library; it’s free and shows Iceland through the ages.  There are also several different exhibitions throughout the year highlighting many talented individuals.
 
Eat: No trip to Reykjavik would be complete with a trip to Sægreifinn, a rustic seafood shack in the old harbour, to experience a big bowl of lobster soup.  Alternatively, for the more adventurous, head to Tapas Barinn for an unusual mixture of dishes including Puffin, Minke Whale and Blue Ling and then finish the night off with a Hot Chocolate at Café Paris.Icelandic travel inspiration via Tamason at Travelling Book Junkie

Also Read: The Best Waterfalls To Visit In Iceland | What To Pack For Iceland | Top Cheap Places For Food In Iceland | Top Tips For Renting A Car Or Campervan In Iceland
 

Please A Trip To Europe? Also Read:

 
  • Essential Items For Pack For A Trip To Europe
  • The Best Tips For Planning A Trip To Italy
  • The Best Sandals For A Trip To Europe
  • The Best Anti-Theft Backpacks For Travel
 
 

Filed Under: City Guides Tagged With: Africa, City Guides, Croatia, Europe, Iceland, Morocco, Netherlands, Portugal, Scotland, Sweden

Reykjavik | Whale Watching In Iceland

October 11, 2017 by admin 5 Comments

Whale Watching In Iceland
 
 
I have written a couple of posts on my visit to Iceland. From locating and swimming the secret pool in the mountains to checking out glaciers lagoons, chasing waterfalls in Iceland. For those visiting the country checking out what Iceland tours are available is almost at the top of every traveler’s list.
 
 
An Iceland whale watching is somewhere at the top a list that no doubt includes Iceland guided tours tour Reykjavik or in and around the Golden Circle or the entire Ring Road.  We pre-booked spots onIceland whale watching tour before we left London.
 
 
We were going to visit and explore Reykjavik for a few days before leaving to explore Iceland in a campervan. We rented an apartment right by the seafront in Laekir and a short walk to Harpa concert hall and the marina where the majority of Iceland whale watching tours leave from.
 
 
Reykjavik | Whale Watching In Iceland
Reykjavik | Whale Watching In Iceland
 

Iceland Whale Watching Tours 

 
An Iceland whale watching tour has been on my bucket list for a long time but never wanted to see them in marine theme park or aquarium. For me, that is similar to going to see those chained tigers in so-called “Tiger sanctuary” in Thailand.
 
 
I wanted to see them in their element in their own environment. The whale watching tours in Iceland only started in the early 90s and popularity of the tours has since grown since movies like Free Willy hit our screens.  You can see dolphins, a variety of whale species like Orcas, Blue Whale, Humpback, Minke Whales and Harbour Porpoise and off course, none are guaranteed on Iceland guided tours in Reykjavik or the North in Akureyri, you sail around in search and hope that the whales will come back your boat and flip their tales.
 
 
We sailed an sailed. We spotted many dolphins. They danced around and playfully swam around but I have seen enough dolphins on the edges of Africa, what wanted were whales! It was an Iceland whale watching tour after all. I was hoping for humpback whales if possible. We sailed for what seems like an hour also and just as I was thinking that we would be turning to head back without seeing the stars of the show I came to watch, there they were! Two small whales. I believe these were Harbour Porpoise whales.
 
 
They are a lot smaller than Blue or Humpback Whales which can be as big as 17-19 meters and 29-32 meters respectively, compared to 1.4-1.9 meters Harbour Porpoise whales grow to. We had a knowledgeable guide on the boat who may have mentioned the name of the whales but I have forgotten. Most of not all Iceland guided tours whether on a boat or otherwise are knowledgeable in the areas they are guiding.
 
 
Our guide was a Greek guy with a degree in marine biology and had fascinating knowledge on how whales migrate to how they find mates and which parts of the world they roam to how they follow water current to find food. I would highly recommend a whale watching tour in Iceland.
 
Iceland Whale Watching Price For Tours: Price ranges from £50+
 
 

 
 
Reykjavik | Whale Watching In Iceland
Reykjavik | Whale Watching In Iceland
Reykjavik | Whale Watching In Iceland
Reykjavik | Whale Watching In Iceland
Reykjavik | Whale Watching In Iceland Reykjavik | Whale Watching In Iceland
Reykjavik | Whale Watching In Iceland
 

Iceland Whale Watching Best Time Of Year

By far the best time of year for whale watching in Iceland is during the summer months, from April through September, when over 20 species of Cetacea—including the Orca, Minke, Humpback, and Blue Whale—can be seen in the North Atlantic and Arctic oceans on either side of the island. But note that there are no guarantees to which whales you will see and whether you will see any at all.
 
 
When we struct luck halfway through our tour and spotted a whale of course all the other boats nearby head on the radio within minutes all where nearby with tourists who had been waiting in anticipation of when these beautiful creatures would be making an entrance. Arriving fashionably late was the Harbour Poisboise together with mother in toll.
 
 
They showed their tales for a few minutes before disappearing off into the distance. Having gotten to chat with one of the tour guides we learned a bit more about their migrating habits across the oceans in search of food and partners. They are interesting creatures and would highly recommend a tour if you are visiting Iceland. The whale watching tours in Iceland leave from Reykjavik and Akureyri.
 
 
Reykjavik | Whale Watching In Iceland
Reykjavik | Whale Watching In Iceland
Reykjavik | Whale Watching In Iceland
 

What to pack For Whale Watching In Iceland

 
Wear layers! Even in the summer months when the sun is bright and out, it can still be cold and always remember that Icelandic weather is even more unpredictable than our weather in the UK. I bought a couple of thermals from John Lewis which worked as a treat as I could wear them under jumper dresses and still stay warm. Peared up with a wool jacket and little gloves when the wind caught a chill.
 
 

 

 
Reykjavik | Whale Watching In Iceland
Reykjavik | Whale Watching In Iceland
Reykjavik | Whale Watching In Iceland
Reykjavik | Whale Watching In Iceland
 

Where to stay in Reykjavik

 
We rented an apartment I prepare self-catering for the majority of my stays when I travel. You can either book one of many apartments in Reykjavik like we did but there are also centrally located hotels in Reykjavik like Radisson Blu and Hotel Borg which are both across from Harpa and the Marina.
 
 
For something a little more budget, there are also hostels in Reykjavik also within walking distance to the marina, Harpa and the town center like Loft HI Hostel and Downtown Hostel. Iceland is not a cheap country by a long shot, it also doesn’t help that its small so during busy seasons a lot of places sell out very quickly so you might also consider having a look at Airbnb rooms and apartments on offer (you will save $30/£15 with this like on Airbnb) for more options on where to stay  check out some of my favourite booking site Booking.com, Agoda and Trivago.hotels, hostels, and apartments in Iceland.
 
A guide whale watching in Iceland. From the best tours for whale watching in Reykjavik, what to expect, what to pack and everything you need to know.
A guide whale watching in Iceland. From the best tours for whale watching in Reykjavik, what to expect, what to pack and everything you need to know.
 
So have you been on a whale watching in Iceland or any other place? What was your experience?
 
 
Also See:
 
  • How To Explore Iceland By Camper Van
  • Sleeping Under Waterfalls In Iceland
  • Hiking And Camping Trolltunga In Norway
  • Hiking Snowdonia In Wales
 
 
 
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A guide whale watching in Iceland. From the best tours for whale watching in Reykjavik, what to expect, what to pack and everything you need to know.
 

Filed Under: Adventure Tagged With: Europe, Iceland, Reykjavik

Top 20 Things To Do In Iceland – Unmissable Icelandic Experiences

September 21, 2017 by admin 15 Comments

Things to do in Iceland
 
My guide to all the cool things to do in Iceland comes by way of my cool cheeky guide. Taking you to all places you need to see when you visit Iceland. For you tea drinkers out there, that like to #keepittea, you might recognise my Iceland guide above.
 
Moneky, as he is called, was given to my by my niece. After many months had passed since the PG Tips tea had been drunk, Monkey had been sitting on a shelf but looked rather sad as I was living for Iceland so in a last minute decision I decided to let him be my guide for the Land of Fire and Ice!
 
 
After going on and about booking flights to Iceland, planning visits to the Blue Lagoon, booking a campervan in Iceland, reviewing guides to Iceland and hotels in Reykjavik and best areas to stay, it was time to take a back seat and let Monkey do all the guiding from one Golden Circle attraction to the next. 
 
 
And so a plan was complete! Finally, Monkey had hitched is the first adventure in Iceland. Who would pass up an opportunity to explore Iceland by campervan. She had gone one and one about renting a campervan and exploring the sights on Iceland’s Ring Road. Would you pass up a free vacation to Iceland?
 
Yeah, either would I! So having come back, I have managed to convince Bee on let me give you a tour of Iceland. So grab a cuppa and keep it tea, while I take you for a drive around Iceland stops we made.

 

20 Things To Do In Iceland – Bucket List Experiences Not Miss In Iceland

Iceland is an amazing place to visit. Not just for the waterfalls, the glaciers, geysers and so many other awe-inspiring wowzer moments. If you are hoping visit Iceland for the northern lights. Get tips for places to see them and when to see them on the linked post.

 

1. Explore Reykjavik and take in the views from Hallgrimskirkja Church

 
You can easily land in Reykjavik and get right down to business of exploring.  This church is right in the heart of the capital city so a trip to visit Hallgrimskirkja Church is a must.
 
The view from the top is just incredible with colourful city buildings to offset the often grey weather. Just don’t seat on the edge of the window unless you have a thing for heights(or can fit through the bars.)
 
Things to do in Iceland Hallgrimskirkja Church
Things to do in Iceland Hallgrimskirkja Church
 
 

 

2. A trip to the land of fire and Ice is not complete without tasting the ice cream.

 
Nestled in the shadows of Hallgrímskirkja Church is Joylato. A little ice cream shop packed full of flavourful selections. I love that it’s made right there in front of you with liquid nitrogen which adds to the fun.
 
After selecting your flavour, mixed the ice cream mix and N2, with a puff of mist as if by magic you have creamy and fresh ice cream!
 
 
Just be careful not to embarrass yourself by drooling all over the counter as the ice cream mixologist makes magic. Did I mention flavours include Chocolate, Vanilla, Blueberry cheesecake and for the more adventurous flavour hunters check out Avocado-lime, Mango Cardamom or Caramel-Cashew?
 
Yes, I made it out of Bee’s Karl Lagerfeld Tote in time before she had wolfed it all down. This little gem is located at Njálsgata 1, 103 Reykjavik, Iceland. Another must is a visit to Iceland’s Viking Museum.
 
 
 
Things to do in Iceland - Food to try in Iceland
The bag that made my trip possible when I ‘accidentally’ fell into it. Karl Lagerfeld Tote(sold out but similar ones below.)

 

Things to do in Iceland - Food to try in Iceland - Places to visit in Iceland
 
 
 

3. Visit The Sun Voyager on Saebraut Road in Reykjavik.

 
It’s just a short walk from the Harpa building which is another spot to add to your visit in Iceland. The Sun Voyager is a sculpture by Jon Gunnar Arnason.
 
A dreamboat, an ade to the sun. It may look great during the day but I prefer it after the midnight sunset when the clouds take on a colourful streak and the reflections on the tiles under the boat bounce off the sculpture. Just be sure to bring some glove and a cuppa if you can.
 
 
Things to do in Iceland - Sun Voyager
Things to do in Iceland - Food to try in Iceland - Places to visit in Iceland

 

4. Marvel at mother nature’s masterpiece that is Gullfoss.

 

This one of Iceland’s most popular tourist attractions so of course, Monkey wasn’t going to let Bee stop him from taking a quick shot of with this beautiful waterfall. This was an unplanned stop as Bee didn’t realise just how close Gullfoss is from the Geyser.

 

Things to do in Iceland - Gullfoss Waterfall in Iceland - Places to visit in Iceland
 
 

5. Visiting the Blue Lagoon.

 
I don’t think there is a soul that would visit Iceland and not go to the Blue Lagoon. Well not without regretting it anyway. Yes, Monkey was going to tag along to this as well. After all he was already in a bathrobe. At last, that moment had come when I was more prepared than Bee.
 
The only thing I needed was some flip-flops, but those are free with entrance to the Blue Lagoon so all that was needed was to chill and enjoy the R&R as the minerals worked their magic.
 
For more tips on what to expect and tips on planning a trip to the Blue Lagoon, Bee has a post on  tips and what to expect when you get to the Blue Lagoon.
 
 

 

Things to do in Iceland - Blue Lagoon - Places to visit in Iceland
Things to do in Iceland - Blue Lagoon - Places to visit in Iceland
 

 

 

6. More of those Ahhh moments with a visit to Seljavallalaug Pool – Outdoor bathing in Iceland

 
A hidden hot spring pool in the mountains. Yes, there is no way I was going to miss on this gem having seen Bee toil and scour the interwebs to make sure that she was going to locate this place come rain or shine with or without GPS signal.
 
 
She found it! I was right on her tail as she did too. Ready for my close-up!  If you want to find Seljavallaug when you visit Iceland, Bee posted tips on not only how to find the hidden pool in Iceland but what you need to make sure you bring with you to make the most of Iceland’s [worst] best-kept secret.
 
When the snow is coming downing and the wind is blowing hard, Icelanders head to the nearest pool or soak in many Geothermal hot springs scattered around the island.
 

 

 
Things to do in Iceland - Seljavallalaug Pool - Places to visit in Iceland
 
 

 

7. Visit Svinafellsjokull Glacier

 
That moment when you wish you had a lovely warm cuppa to toast mother nature to, this was that moment. Nothing prepares you for what your eyes will have in their sights. All emotions will run through you. I am telling you! I could have sworn I saw a tear fall down Bee’s cheek.
 
 
She, of course, claimed it was because of the cold but I know this gangster, the tough-talking chick had cracked and it only took mother nature’s delicately layered sheets of ice to crack this tough cookie.
 
The pictures do not do this place justice at all. It’s quiet, serene and just magical. It’s almost as if it’s a painting but also delicately looking. The ice looks so soft like marshmallows. For more pictures of this Bee has another post on why you need to add Svinafellsjokull to your Iceland itinerary plans. 

 

 

 

 

 

Things to do in Iceland - Svinafellsjokull Glacier- Places to visit in Iceland
Things to do in Iceland - Svinafellsjokull Glacier- Places to visit in Iceland
 
 

8. Walk Behind A Waterfall  – Seljalandsfoss In Iceland.

 
How can one pass up the opportunity to walk behind a waterfall in Iceland?This waterfall really needs no further introductions apart from the fact that its one of South Iceland’s most visited sights so yes, naturally a photo was needed.
 
For more info on how Bee slept right under this and the secret waterfall next to it then head over to Bee’s post on Waterfalls you need to visit in Iceland.
 
 

 

 
Things to do in Iceland - Seljalandsfoss In Iceland- Places to visit in Iceland
 
 

9. Gljufrabui Waterfall.

 
This beautiful little gem is hidden between a veil of rocks and definitely one that you need to see. This is also featured among the must-see waterfall that Bee had the pleasure of sleeping under.
 
Another amazing waterfall not to miss is Skogafoss, one of Iceland’s most splendid waterdalls. It tumbles 60 meters from the cliffs of Skogar before cascading off the cliffs as Skogafoss.

 

 
Things to do in Iceland - Hidden Waterfall In Iceland - Gljufrabui - Places to visit in Iceland
 
 
 
 

 

 

10. Jokulsarlon and Diamond Beach.

 
Iceland has the biggest glacier in Europe and a tenth of its surface is covered in ice!I may have missed out on checking out the Geysers but no way was anyone going to stand between Iceland’s Glacier Lagoon and Monkey!
 
Yeah, bringing sexy back with glacier ice sheets. Between you and me I would recommend sitting on ice butt naked. I should have pulled my robe over my rear end before I sat on the ice. Check out the quick video taken from Jokulsarlon glacial lagoon.

 

Things to do in Iceland - Jokulsarlon and Diamond Beach - Glacier Lagoon - Places to visit in Iceland
Things to do in Iceland - Jokulsarlon and Diamond Beach - Glacier Lagoon - Places to visit in Iceland
 

11. Reykjavik Chips.

 
After all that exploring one needs to regroup, get some food, grab a cuppa maybe? One little stop in Reykjavik is the rustically decorated chip shop.  Seriously the chips are finger licking good! Naturally, I wolfed down Bee’s chips before she could go in for second pickings.
 

 

Things to do in Iceland - Food to try in Iceland - Places to visit in Iceland
Things to do in Iceland - Food to try in Iceland - Places to visit in Iceland
 

12.  Stand Between Continents or dive between two continents

 

Walk between the North American and Eurasian plates. Born from a lava oozing rift, where continental plates drift apart, the mid-Atlantic ridge is one of those rear places in the world that you can only be found in Iceland.

Found in Pingvellir National Park, the Silfra underwater fissure in Lake Pingvallavatn is only 40km drive from Reykjavik. You have the option to walk between continents or swim.

The clear water here allows for visibility of up to 120 meters! Another place that is within easy reach is from Reykjavik,  is Hafnarfjordur in Southwest Iceland. 

 
 
 
 

13. Experience Midnight Sun

 
Summer in Iceland is truly magical as I shared reasons why July in Iceland is one of the best times to visit Iceland.  The whole island comes alive under the constant sunlight.
 
Mid-night sun is something you have to experience in Iceland as much as you need to experience the Aurora Borealis. We enjoyed taking mid-night strolls as I showed you above to experience all the wonderful colours of Iceland.
 
 
Things to do in Iceland - Midnight Sun - Places to visit in Iceland
 
 

14.  Visit The Geysir 

 
Geysir lends its name to the English language in order to christen the phenomenon of the periodically spouting hot springs. One of the main attractions on Iceland’s Golden Circle.
 
For a map of Iceland Golden Circle check out Nicole’s post. Experience the explosion of hot water warmed up by magma beneath the earth’s surface in the famous geothermal area littered with beautiful hot springs.
 
You can walk around the geothermal field where hot springs are in abundance. Geysers explode and pools of mud bubble. 
 
 
Things to do in Iceland - Geysir - Places to visit in Iceland
 

15. Explore Harpa Concert Hall

 
Designed by Henning Larsen, Harpa Concert Hall is another quick stop in Reykjavik not to be missed. Especially for photography and architecture lovers. Beautiful facades, the building stands out like a large radiant sculpture reflecting both the sky and harbour spaces it occupies.
 
 
Things to do in Iceland - Harpa Concert Hall - Places to visit in Iceland Things to do in Iceland - Harpa Concert Hall - Places to visit in Iceland
Things to do in Iceland - Harpa Concert Hall - Places to visit in Iceland
 

16. Whale Watching In Iceland

One cannot come to Iceland and not experience a cruise to see the many whale species in Iceland. You can read about Bee’s whale watching experience in Iceland on the blog.
 
 
Things to do in Iceland - Whale Watching In Iceland - Places to visit in Iceland Things to do in Iceland - Whale Watching In Iceland - Places to visit in Iceland
 
 
 

 
 

17. Visit Vik and see black sand beach and birds of South Iceland.

 

Vik is one of those unmissable stops on the Ring Road in Iceland. The valley of Myrdalur is a rich birding area, with Reynisfjall, Reynisfdrangar and Dryholaey are chief birding spots not to main great spots for getting amazing views of black sand beaches in the area. Your can read about our stop in Vik Iceland here.

 
 

Things to do in Iceland - Vik Iceland - Places to visit in Iceland

Things to do in Iceland - Vik Iceland - Places to visit in Iceland

 
 

18. Visit Perlan

 
A visit to Perlan is another unmissable stop on the list of things to do in Iceland. Most tours on the hop-on, hop-off tours in Iceland will also stop here.
 
Head to the fourth floor of Perlan where you will find a large observation deck giving you 360 degree views of Reykjavik. From here you can see Keilir Volcano, Reykjanes Peninsula and the world famous Snaefellsjokull glacier.
 
 
 
 

19.  Explore the lava fields of Eldhraun

In 1783 a huge lava flow streamed from Lakagigar in what became known as the ‘Skafta Fires’. This is believed to have been one of the biggest lava flows in a single eruption in the history of the world.

Its cubic measure is approximately 16k cubic meters and the square measure of 580km square. All around you now have this beautiful wholly fringemoss that forms a continuous layer which gives off a grey colour when dry and a beautiful green after the rain.

Eldhraun is located in Katla and now a world-renowned UNESCO Global Geopark. You can read tips on how to find Eldhraun Lava field here.

 

 

 

Things to do in Iceland - Eldhraun - Places to visit in Iceland
 
 
 

20. Have a photo session.

At this point, Bee and the Ginger had taken me around Iceland so the least I could do was allow them to take a picture with me…
 

 

 
Things to do in Iceland - Glacier Lagoon - Places to visit in Iceland

Bee gave me a side eye when she realised that I had been hogging the camera a lot for most of the spots visited.

Things to do in Iceland - Glacier Lagoon - Places to visit in Iceland

Playing it cool while hanging out of a pocket

 
 
Things to do in Iceland - Glacier Lagoon - Places to visit in Iceland

Thanking Bee for #KeepingItTea and taking me on the Iceland Adventure 

 

 

 

Iceland Planning Tips – Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland

  • Entry: Iceland is in the Schengen zone which exempts travellers from 22 EU countries from needing a visa.  For residents outside the Schengen zone, you need a valid passport with at least 3 months beyond the date of entry.
  • Language: Icelandic is the national language with English being its official second language. Danish is also taught in schools.
  • Emergencies: For EU nationals always carry your EHIC(European Health Insurance Card) card just in case of emergencies. For all others make sure you have adequate travel insurance. For emergencies call 112.
  • Travel from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik: There are bus services operating between Reykjavik and Keflavik International airport. Buses leave the airport every 45-60minutes. The driving between the airport and Reykjavik is abour 45 minutes. If you want to bring your own car to Iceland you can do so via Denmark. The car-ferry MS Norrona sailes weekly between Denmark and Seyoisfjordour in East Iceland
  • Driving in Iceland: The main road in Iceland is called the Ring Road or Nr 1. This is around 1,332 km(827 miles). The speed limit in Iceland is about 50km/ in urban areas and 80 on gravel roads. The road around mountains are closed off until June due to dangerous snowy conditions. Off-road driving and driving outside of marked tracks is prohibited by law so make sure you don’t violate the law. Gas stations in Iceland are open 24/7. You are obliged by law to use headlights at all times in Iceland – day and night.
  • Climate in Iceland: The average temerature in Reykjavik in July is 11 degrees. The average temperature in Reykjavik in January is around -0.6 degrees and 1.9 degrees in Akureyri.
  • What to wear in Iceland: Whether in Summer or Winter, you need to pack adequate clothing for Iceland. The weather is very changeable even in the summer. For tips on what to pack for Iceland see here. Be sure to pack waterproof coats.
  • Paying for goods: Visa, EuroCard, MasterCard, DinersClub and American Express are all widely accepted.
 
 
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Things to do in Iceland - Places to visit in Iceland Things to do in Iceland - Places to visit in Iceland
 

 

Filed Under: City Guides Tagged With: City Guides, Europe, Iceland, Reykjavik, Vik

Glacier Walks In Iceland – Exploring Svinafellsjokull Glacier in Iceland

June 20, 2017 by admin 24 Comments

Glacier Walks In Iceland - Exploring Svinafellsjokull Glacier in Iceland
 
 
 
 
A trip to Iceland is not without checking out a glacier in Iceland. We stumbled on this gem on the way to see  Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, and with many Iceland Glacier Tours from Reykjavik one is never too far from glacier walks in Iceland. In our case running into Svinafellsjokull Glacier stopped us right in our tracks. Welcome to the land of surprises! After planning how much exploring time in Iceland we needed and reviewing our list of things to do in Iceland we thought we had our itinerary down to a T! (Scratch that! I thought I had it down to a T, I am more of a planner and Igal goes with the flow.) Then we arrived in Reykjavik Iceland, picked our campervan rental and embarked our a journey on Iceland’s Ring Road. All along thinking that we were going to be ticking off bucket list items one by one.

 

 

 

Also See:
  • Sleeping Under Waterfalls In Iceland
  • A Guide To Exploring Iceland By Campervan
  • Everything You Need To Know About Hiking Trolltunga
  • Money Saving Tips For Exploring London
 
 
 

Glacier Tours In Iceland

 
The moment we set off, plans were in a way thrown out of the window, because of the Ring Road. No matter how much planning you do, it will throw some surprises your way in that there is so much beauty and many stops you may not have thought you would want to include in your Iceland itinerary. One such surprise was Svinafellsjokull glacier. The beautiful glacier tongue that you can spot from across the Ring Road.
 

 

 
 
The call is so loud you just cannot ignore the sight. Just like Godafoss waterfall, we actually hadn’t considered, it but stumbled on it on the drive to our pinned map sights, not knowing just how easily accessible some of the natural wonders in Iceland are. Svinafellsjokull can be seen from the Ring Road. The road leading up to it is a gravel road but easily accessible. Although I imagine during the winter months be maybe quite difficult to get as close as we did. We had the places to ourselves but were soon joined by a couple of tour buses as this is a stop on a couple of glacier tours in Iceland.
 

 

 
 

Svinafellsjokull Glacier Walks In Iceland | Vatnajökull National Park

 
 
Located in Vatnajökull National park, Vatnajökull or Vatna Glacier as its sometimes called is Iceland’s largest ice cap and is among Europe’s largest glacier caps. The ice or snow that flows away from the main trunk of the glacier is what is referred to as glacier tongues. Svinafellsjokull is one of many glacier tongues in Iceland flowing from Vatnajokull. The makings of best glacier hikes in Iceland.
 
 

 

 
 
Although the pace of the fall of ice and snow is one that may not be visible to the naked eye.  Svinafellsjokull glacier in Iceland is such a breathtaking sight. You can see the beautifully shaped ice cups and the deep crevasses of the glacier and in the distance, glacier ice slowly melting into the water like marshmallows in a mug of warm milk tea and glacier walkers in the distance meandering through ice ridges on  Iceland glacier hiking tours on many of the South Coast tours of Iceland and goldern circle tours.
 
 
 

 

 
Glacier Walks In Iceland - Exploring Svinafellsjokull Glacier in Iceland
Vatnajökull national park is home to the largest glacier, that is Vatnajökull at 8,300 km square, with the second being Langjokull at just 953 km sq.  It is situated in the west of the Icelandic interior or Highlands of Iceland and can be seen clearly from Haukadalur.  The beauty of this place is just how easily accessible is if you are on a self-guided tour of Iceland. When we arrived here we had the place all to ourselves until the tour buses flowed in and left one by one. You can have an easy glacier walk around Svinafellsjokull. You need to come prepared with hiking shoes or a decent pair of trainers or walking shoes.
 
 

 

 
If you only have loafers or shoes of that type you can still walk around but would not advise going too far out as some parts require a bit of an uphill climb on slippery rock faces. As beautiful as this place is, just remember how remote it is and don’t over do it for the ‘gram and hurt yourself. I have linked to some tours above but you can also compare prices with other glacier tours found here. Many tours will take you closer and onto the glacial ice and the crevasses, especially on the ice cave tours or ice climbing tours. They will give you and show you how to use equipment crampons, and ice axes used for hiking such terrain.
 
 

 

 
 
If you planning on doing the majority of the exploring on your own then pack accordingly and only walk around the mountain and don’t attempt to get anywhere near the crevasses without a guide as glaciers tend to have parts that drop off into bottomless pits so just don’t do walk around that without a guide that knows the area. There are so many small group tours and glacier tours in the national pack that its not worth risking your life just for the sake of saving a few bucks.
 

 

Svinafellsjokull Glacier Hike - Iceland
 
Svinafellsjokull Glacier Hike - Iceland
Svinafellsjokull Glacier Hike - glacier hiking iceland reykjavik
 

What To Wear For Iceland Glacier Walk or Hike

 

We visited in the summer but as you may know that Icelandic weather can change without warning, so pack accordingly. Reykjavik, although cold, gave us summer midnight sun and the south of Iceland had mysterious low hanging clouds, rain, hale and all sorts. You don’t have to pack everything under the sun, but picking clothes you can layer up as well as items suitable for all weather as well is my advice.

 

 

I came layered up in thermals, a jumper dress, and my trusted lightweight Mountain Equipment jacket. I bought this jacket a long time ago and it has seen me through hikes inSnowdonia, Norway, and a few other places. It’s waterproof, keeps body heat well and can handle pretty much all the mountain can throw at it without being bulky or weighty and can fold into a nice little ball. So if you are going to be taking part in any Iceland glacier tours from Reykjavik or embarking on glacier hiking in Iceland, guided or self-guided, I would highly recommend you check the weather in Iceland before leaving and pack accordingly.  Below is also a few items you might want to pack on your trip. If heading to Iceland in the winter, make sure you pack for the Iceland winter which can be harsh.

 

What I Wore

 
Mountain Equipment – Gore-Tex Waterproof Jacket /Similar here
Thermal Leggings / Similar here
Keen Hiking Shoes/Similiar here
Very Jumper dress / Similar here and here
 

What to Pack For An Iceland Glacier Hike

Socks
Thermals
Jumper
Hat
Hiking Boots
Waterproof Jacket
First Aid Kit
 
 
Svinafellsjokull Glacier Hike - Iceland
Glacier Walks In Iceland - Exploring Svinafellsjokull Glacier in Iceland
 
Svinafellsjokull Glacier Hike - Glacier In Iceland
 
 
Svinafellsjokull Glacier Hike - Glacier In Iceland
 
 

 

 

Iceland Glacier Tours From Reykjavik

 

 

If you want to add a little adventure to your experience of the land of fire and ice. There are at least 13 large glaciers in Iceland and with many Iceland glacier tours from Reykjavik, you can jump on a tour easily even if on a short visit.  There are tours offering Iceland walks in Iceland’s Skaftafell nature reserve. This is Iceland’s second largest national park and home to Skaftafellsjökull glacier. You can do glacier hiking, easy glacier walks as well as ice climbing in Iceland glacier caves.

 

 
 
 
 

 
glacier iceland - Svinafellsjokull Glacier Hike
Glacier Walks In Iceland - Exploring Svinafellsjokull Glacier in Iceland
 

 

 
Coming from a hot country, where the temperature can soar into the 40s. Sights like these are just so hard to imagine. I have never seen anything like this in my entire life. Then again unless you live here it’s always a first for anyone. This is one of the reasons why I love combining my city travels with adventures that take you so close to nature like this. Nature and sights like this let “You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world.” Whatever worries and cares in the world are suddenly forgotten and you are just left speechless and in awe of just how wonderful this world is and how much more of it you just need to see while you are still here.
 

 

 
Svinafellsjokull Glacier Hike - Iceland
Iceland glacier near Reykjavik

Svinafellsjokull Glacier Hike - Iceland
Svinafellsjokull Glacier Hike - Iceland
 

 

How To Get To Svinafellsjokull

 
An Iceland glacier near Reykjavik, Svinafellsjokull Glacier, much like many places in Iceland has been part of a movie set. Joining the ranks of Jokuluson featured in not only one but two James Bond movies, Batman Begins and Tomb Raider. The likes of Thor, Star Wars – Rogue One, Prometheus have all been filmed in Iceland. Svinafellsjokull is where Interstellar was filmed. Getting to this beautiful movie set couldn’t be easier as its an of few glacier in Iceland near Reykjavik. You can see Vatna ice cup and it’s glacier tongue in Iceland that is Svinafelllsjokull from the Ring Road.
 
 

 

 
You will see the signage in the image below from the Ring Road and once you turn into the road, it leads to a dirt road with a small parking lot right at the end of it. There is a little gate with an entrance to a walking path to explore. You can walk around and hike up the rocks for a better view but bare in mind that you will need suitable shoes to go further on the path and even better gear for the glacier walks but do not attempt the glacier walks without a guide. There are safe paths around with the area providing great views of the glacier that putting yourself in danger for the ‘gram would be a bit of an overkill. See what I did there 🙂
 

 

 
 
Svinafellsjokull Glacier Hike - Iceland
Svinafellsjokull Glacier Hike - Iceland
 

More On Europe:

  • How To See Florence In One Day
  • 20 Things To See And Do In Paris
  • Unmissable Views From Bergen’s Mount Ulriken
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Filed Under: Adventure Tagged With: Adventure, Europe, Hiking, Iceland, Reykjavik

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