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Why a Boat Tour on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Needs to be on Your Bucket List

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 07:26:42 GMT

Why a Boat Tour on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Needs to be on Your Bucket List

By Chris Ayliffe, Traveo

Source: Inside a glacier cave. Wikimedia. CC. Moyan Brenn.

Iceland has long been regarded as one of the ultimate countries to tick off travellers bucket lists. From watching the famous Northern Lights to exploring glaciers , volcanoes , mountains, hot springs, tearing tectonic plates, black sand beaches and much more it’s clear to see how it earned its reputation.

However, with such an abundance of attractions to see, nature to explore and activities to include, it’s worth identifying the very best things to see and do in Iceland to maximise your adventure. After all, as much as we’d all like the ability to enjoy an ice cave tour and watch the Northern Lights dance surrounded by the aquatic backflips of Iceland’s breaching whales nestled in the ambience of a groaning glacier, it doesn’t quite happen like this.

Also check out a full list of incredible Iceland day tours

So, then what needs (and I mean ‘needs’) to be on your bucket list of bucket lists when you come to Iceland? Well, in my personal opinion, at the top of the list must be a visit to the famous Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, now frequently referred to as ‘the crown jewel of Iceland’.

However, though stopping to gaze at this perfect serene lagoon filled with gargantuan flowing icebergs is an incredible sight, I want to suggest you take your experience that one extra step further. Join a boat tour on this very crown jewel of Iceland’s nature and get up close and personal with Europe's largest crumbling glacier, the mighty blue icebergs and the interesting wildlife that calls this place home.

What is Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon?

Jökulsárlón is a huge glacial lake at a southern tip of Vatnajökull National Park. Situated at the head of Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, Jökulsárlón developed into a lake as the glacier started receding from the Atlantic Ocean.

Due to the impacts of climate change, the lake has grown at varying rates due to the rapidly melting glaciers under the growing average global temperatures. Quite shockingly the lake has actually increased in size fourfold since the 1970s.

The glacier itself is now 7 - 8 km (4.3 - 5 mi) away from the ocean’s edge, and covering an area of 28 km2 (17.4 sq mi) at the time of writing. It’s even reported to be the deepest lake in the whole of Iceland, with a maximum depth of 284 m (932 ft).

In human speech, it’s huge and it’s getting bigger and bigger all the time.

Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, which formed Jökulsárlón, is actually part of Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull glacier. This glacier is so large that it could fit every other glacier across the whole continent into it. A drive along Iceland’s South Coast will give you plenty of out-of-this-world views of the various glacier tongues clawing down the mountain sides that decorate this journey.

Also check out some amazing Iceland South Coast tours

Jökulsárlón is one of Iceland’s most remarkable natural wonders. For those of you planning a trip, you will have most likely seen the lagoon without even knowing about it due to its regular features in hit American Hollywood films.

These films have included: A View to a Kill, Die Another Day, Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, Batman Begins and Interstellar. If it’s epic enough for those movies, I’m pretty confident you’re going to like it too.

What is Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon?

An aerial photograph of Eyjafjallajökull in full. Photo: Wikimedia. CC. TommyBee.

It’s a bit like asking why should you go up the Empire State Building when you can see it perfectly fine from the ground? It’s not the same.

The main thing to note, however, is that boat tours in the lagoon are only running between 1st May - 15th November. So, you’ll want to make sure you book during this period.

Taking a boat ride in Jökulsárlón is a completely different and unique experience that not enough travellers take advantage of. You can actually wander graciously through this arctic paradise and discover the true hidden gems of this attraction which may well be completely different by tomorrow.

Jökulsárlón is one of those places that when the weather is good, you can easily sit, watch, photograph and have a picnic by the water's edge and just bathe in the peacefulness of nature. However, you’ll see a load of lucky travellers kitted out in warm overalls and safety gear heading out onto a boat tour, and trust me you’ll want to join them.

Credit: Icelagoon.is

Whichever boat option you choose, you’ll be taken through the many icebergs of the lagoon, learn more about the history of this attraction, why the ice looks so blue, as well as hopefully some sightings of the frolicking local seals that sun themselves out on the ice.

The ice formations are unbelievable having broken off from the colossal wall of Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, on their journey to slowly melt and head out to the ocean. Sometimes the huge icebergs flip, but don’t worry, your guide is well aware of the signs when this could happen.

As you head deeper and deeper into the lagoon, you’ll feel the temperature drop and the coolness of your breath start to become visible in front of you. This is when you’ve left the touristy vibe behind and are now very much immersed in the powerful draw of raw Icelandic nature.

Credit: Icelagoon.is

Listen close as your boat stops at a safe distance from the glacial wall (only Zodiac Boat tours get close enough for this). As the engine slows and chatter turns to whispers and silence, you’ll hear the creaks and groans of one of nature’s colossal frozen titans. A few sounds and cracks from these goliath structures is enough to help you appreciate both the power and fragility of the nature in front of you which is an incredibly humbling feeling.

Keep your camera close with your finger on the shutter to get some truly unbelievable shots of a series of icebergs, seals and the mighty glacier in front of you. You won’t get an opportunity quite like this again.

You’re basically going to feel like David Attenborough substituting penguins for seals.

Which Boat Tour Should You Take?

When it comes to picking the right boat tour on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, you really can’t go wrong.

Though there are two main options to choose from, they are both fantastic experiences and cater to different people's preferences.

Do you want a peaceful and tranquil ride or an adrenaline-pumping one?

Allow me to explain the options a little more which should help highlight which one is right for you.

Amphibian Boat Tour

Credit: Icelagoon.is

This part-land part-sea craft is the perfect option to take larger groups out into the lagoon.

Your tour will take you sailing amongst the huge icebergs amidst the most picturesque scenery imaginable. You will have plenty of time to get the perfect snap of these perfectly blue ancient blocks of ice as you gently make your way in between them.

There will also be an opportunity for you to taste a sample of this thousand year-old ice plucked straight from a glacier. This will be the purest water you’ll ever taste, as well as giving you a flavour of history as you learn more about how this lagoon was formed.

Credit: Icelagoon.is

If you’re especially lucky you’ll also get to seal a handful of seals lazily sunning themselves on the ice. These creatures are as curious as they look and will often seem to pose quite happily for photos - the reality is they just can’t be bothered moving!

This is the perfect option for those of you wanting a shorter ride at a slower pace, or if you’re part of a bigger group. The guides are exceptionally well informed and will delight in answering all of your questions, and even teach you a little Icelandic if you’re especially nice.

Zodiac Boat Tour

Credit: Icelagoon.is

For those of you feeling a little extra adventurous, join an hour-long zodiac boat tour.

Very appropriate for much smaller groups and those wanting to see even more of the glacier, the speed of the zodiac boats will have you zooming across the lagoon from the moment you step onboard.

Hold onto the sides as your adrenaline will be pumping with the bumps and twists and turns of this exciting glacier adventure. You’ll also get to go much closer to the icebergs than the amphibian crafts can, offering unrivalled glimpses into this frozen world.

The boats will also go much closer to the glacier wall and allow you to take your time watching this towering and crumbling glacier for a decent period of time. For those of you keen to see a glacier up close and in the most adventurous way, then you absolutely need to take a zodiac boat tour.

Your guide will stop at regular intervals, and as well as answering all and any of your questions, will explain everything there is to know about the icebergs, the lagoon and the surrounding region.

For those of you feeling brave, this is the trip I recommend you take most when visiting Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.

What Other Trips Can You Take in the Area?

Though Jökulsárlón boat tours are incredible experiences, I can’t write this article without giving you information on another nearby treasure which I also recommend you take advantage of.

Ice caves in Iceland are a rare phenomenon found at the start of every winter season with the melting and freezing of the glaciers. This process creates a series of air-pockets which form what we know as natural ice caves.

Also check out a fantastic selection of Iceland Ice Cave Tours

Having joined the Vatnajökull ice cave tour last winter, I can vouch for how otherworldly these places are. Though they change in size and formation every year, this is a chance to drive up onto Europe’s largest glacier in a super jeep and climb deep into the belly of these creaking titans.

The ice inside will be coloured in a series of deep blues, whites and blacks which not only make for the most unbelievable of photographs, but make for one of the world’s rarest experiences to encounter.

You’ll have plenty of time to explore the insides, and even in some seasons your guide may have found another ice cave for you to check out. This means that every year is different, which is why I’m looking forward to seeing the new cave/s discovered for this upcoming winter season.

Though not a tour, Jökulsárlón is easily one of the best places in Iceland to see the Northern Lights from . Particularly for photographers, the amazing foreground of floating icebergs and a glacier with the silent dancing Aurora Borealis above you makes for the perfect setting to watch this splendour.

Source: Northern Lights at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Wikimedia. CC. Moyan Brenn

In my view Jökulsárlón is a much better place to photograph the Northern Lights than either the famous Golden Circle or Iceland’s Snaefellsnes peninsula .

Make sure to explore some of these great Snaefellsnes tours

Last September I found myself driving towards Jökulsárlón when the sky erupted from sunset right through to sunrise. If you can imagine what it’s like driving passed the mountainous glacier tongues with a bright Aurora shimmering down on your path, then you can grasp how this memory won’t be leaving me too quickly!

If the Northern Lights are on your agenda, make sure you’re planning a visit to Iceland in winter as during the long daylight hours under

the midnight sun of the summer months you won’t get to see these dancing lights.

Conclusion

There’s no doubt about it, Iceland is incredible. With so many places to check out and activities to enjoy, it’s so important that you prioritise the very best adventures to maximise your time here. For me, Jökulsárlón needs to be at or near the top of your list. The opportunity to take a boat tour into this natural wonder, glide amongst the icebergs and watch this crumbling glacier is a real once in a lifetime opportunity.

Whether you’re planning on taking an Iceland self drive tour , an Iceland small group tou r , or even a Private Guided tour of Iceland , make sure Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon remains right at the top of your travel list.

When you take home your pictures and share your stories with family and friends, the moment you took your first breath within metres of a giant iceberg no one else will get to see is not an opportunity to be missed. Take the chance and experience Jökulsárlón the right way.

Everything You Need To Know About The 2010 Eyjafjallajökull Eruption in Iceland

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 21:25:53 GMT

Everything You Need To Know About The 2010 Eyjafjallajökull Eruption in Iceland

By Michael Chapman

What caused Iceland’s Eyjafjallajökull volcano to erupt in 2010, and what were the consequences? Can Iceland expect more volcanic eruptions in the future? Where can you learn more about these fascinating geological forces? Read on to find out all there is to know about the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption in Iceland.

Why do they call Iceland the Land of Ice and Fire ?

Iceland erupts! Photo: LAVAcentre

Colloquially known as the land of ice and fire, Iceland is a volcanic island located in the North-Atlantic ocean.

Its nickname originates from the many volcanoes, geothermal springs and glaciers found dotted across the country.

These features have long added to Iceland’s reputation as a land of beauty and staggering natural contrasts—made all the more noticeable by such cosmic phenomena as the Midnight Sun and Northern Lights .

Sat atop a powerful underwater magma plume, it is one of the youngest landmasses on Earth—having first raised above ocean level 18 million years ago—and straddles both the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

These tectonic plates stand exposed in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Þingvellir National Park—one of the three attractions that makes up Iceland’s popular Golden Circle sightseeing route.

Visitors walk beside the North American tectonic plate at Þingvellir. Photo: WallpaperFlare.

You can also experience this continental divide on the Reykjanes Peninsula, a region closeby to Iceland’s capital, Reykjavík.

To this day, the country is still deeply affected by this unique geography.

Only in June 2020, North Iceland has experienced over 4.000 earthquakes , which hopefully provides some insight into the significant effect these primordial forces still have.

Of all the events that come to define Iceland moving into the 21st century, the 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajökull was one of the biggest.

Together, let’s break down all there is to know about this most significant of volcanic incidents.

What is Eyjafjallajökull?

Eyjafjallajökull is one of the many stratovolcanoes found across Iceland. It stands an incredible 1651 metres tall, with a caldera that measures 3–4 kilometres in diameter.

An aerial photograph of Eyjafjallajökull in full. Photo: Wikimedia. CC. TommyBee.

In short, it is a true giant of the landscape; one more than worthy of your time exploring deeper.

Other examples of Icelandic stratovolcanoes include Snæfellsjökull ( the Snæfellsnes Peninsula ) and Hekla in South Iceland .

‘ Jökull ’ is the Icelandic word for glacier, which is why you will see these letters cropping up again and again when discussing various frozen attractions in Iceland.

In full, Eyjafjallajökull translates to ' island mountain glacie r'.

Despites its enormous role in Iceland’s history, Eyjafjallajökull is one of the smaller ice caps found in the country.

The ice sheet that covers Eyjafjallajökull is approximately 100 square kilometres (39 sq mi) in size, thus feeding into countless outlet glaciers, including Gígjökull and Steinholtsjökull.

Eyjafjallajökull during more peaceful times. Photo: Pixabay.

Many tourists are a little confused as to how such concentrated heat could exist beneath a dense layer of ice. (Indeed, it does seem to spit in the face of common sense...)

However, the scientific evidence explains why this occurs. Glaciers are leftover remnants from the last Ice Age, which began around 1.6 million years ago. During this period, huge ice sheets covered most of the earth, shielding entire mountainscapes and valleys beneath them.

Dormant volcanoes do not emit the same level of heat as those that are still active, meaning that the glaciers remain cool enough to remain solid throughout the year.

Given their density, size and high-altitude, paired with annual seasonal changes, glaciers are a permanent fixture of Iceland’s landscape (—though, it should be added, they do face the threat of extinction due to an ever-warming climate.)

Some of our glaciers are even home to the seasonally fluctuating, yet beautiful, Iceland ice caves . These are frequently at the top of many travellers list - they are only accessible through Iceland ice cave tours .

As opposed to snow, the ice crystals that compose glaciers are generally much larger—often reaching the size of baseballs. This means glaciers melt much slower than one might expect, with the thawing process left unfinished by the time the winter rolls back around.

When geological heating does occur, glaciers are capable of thawing extremely rapidly. This causes floods of meltwater, known as Jökulhlaup, which can have devastating effects on the nearby area.

Other names for this phenomena include glaciovolcanos , or subglacial volcanoes .

Where is Eyjafjallajökull?

Eyjafjallajökull is located in South East Iceland. It is found north of the small village, Skógar, and west of the glacier, Mýrdalsjökull.

Shielded by glacial ice, guests can witness this gargantuan feature while travelling on the Ring Road —the only road which circles the entire country.

The best option for exploring the region surrounding Eyjafjallajökull is by either taking a fantastic Iceland self-drive tour or joining one of the many excellent Iceland South Coast tours .

The stratovolcano can be found at the exact coordinates, 63°37′12″N 19°36′48″W.

How did Eyjafjallajökull erupt?

Eyjafjallajökull at the beginning of the eruption. Photo: Flickr. Bjarki Sigursveinsson.

On the 26th February 2010, the Meteorological Institute of Iceland was forced to deal with a peculiar anomaly in their numbers. According to their readings, unusual seismic activity was noted alongside a rapid expansion in the earth’s crust.

This was evidence that underground magma had begun pouring into the chamber of Eyjafjallajökull volcano.

It should be noted that as far as volcanic eruptions go, Eyjafjallajökull’s was considered fairly small.

How did Eyjafjallajökull erupt?

The eruption of Eyjafjallajökull volcano began with another eruption on the 20th March 2010. In the days previously, scientists had observed over 3.000 earthquakes near the volcano’s epicentre, roughly 7–10 kilometres deep into the earth.

The eruption did not first take place at Eyjafjallajökull’s highest peak—as one might naturally expect—but 8 kilometres east, in an area known as Fimmvörðuháls.

This region marks the boundary line between Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull. The eruption first broke the surface directly atop a popular hiking route in the area, and was expected by those scientists observing the events.

The initial eruptions at Fimmvörðuháls. Photo: LAVAcentre

The Fimmvörðuháls eruption was a lava eruption, where molten magma flowed from an opening in the earth. It created a 200 metre high lava-fall, the tallest one ever measured.

The official end to the Fimmvörðuháls eruption was on 13th of April, 2010. But Eyjafjallajökull volcano wasn’t quite finished.

After a short intermission, the volcano began erupting once more on the 14th April 2010, this time from the top crater. This secondary event was far more dramatic than its predecessor—approximately 20 times as large as the Fimmvörðuháls eruption.

This second eruption was responsible for an ash cloud that reached several kilometres in the air, as well as substantial outburst flooding. This excess meltwater ( Jökulhlaup ) forced 800 nearby residents to evacuate the area.

The London-based Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre claimed the volcano had stopped erupting by the 21st May 2010. Even so, earthquakes at the epicentre continued to be monitored on a daily basis.

In August, the volcano was officially declared dormant, meaning the eruption lasted approximately five months.

What was the impact in Iceland?

One clear consequence of the eruption was that it reminded Icelanders as to the unbridled power forever bubbling beneath their feet.

Having violently disrupted the general tranquility Icelanders were so accustomed to, this cataclysmic reintroduction no doubt recalled distant cultural memories of former eruptions.

The second fissure ejecting fire! Photo: Wikimedia. CC. Boaworm

This includes the likes of the Laki Eruption of 1783—an event so impactful that many historians claim it was partly responsible for the French Revolution.

During the eruption, over 140 milljónum cubic metres of ash spread over the country, reaching the capital, Reykjavík and even further West to Keflavík Airport.

Two fresh craters were created due to the eruption. These were named Móði and Magni, after the sons of Thor, the Norse God of Thunder.

To commemorate the eruption, the Icelandic post office released three distinctive stamps, each containing actual ash that had fallen on the 17th April 2010.

Lighting with Eyjafjallajökull’s eruption. Photo: Ragnar Th. Sigurdsson. Arctic-Images

The Icelandic photographer Ragnar Th. Sigurdsson gained international recognition thanks to his captivating stills of the eruption in progress.

He took over 10,000 photographs of the event, with some of the most compelling taken during helicopter rides directly over the eruption itself. Many of these images were released in a best-selling book titled ‘Eyjafjallajokull: Untamed Nature.’

What was the impact in Europe?

Eyjafjallajökull’s 2010 eruption received significant media coverage around the world.

Aside from showcasing Iceland’s staggering, otherworldly nature, this had the rather amusing consequence of news anchors struggling to pronounce the glacier’s admittedly difficult name.

Of course, the impact was, in many ways, no laughing matter. The enormous cloud of ash ejected due to Eyjafjallajökull’s eruption severely hampered European air travel, stranding thousands of put-out passengers.

A map showing Eyjafjallajökull’s ash cloud over Europe. Photo: Flickr. Dominic Alves.

Interestingly enough, many social commentators have claimed that the media exposure the eruption brought upon Iceland is one of the leading factors that contributed to its tourism boom.

Some have even gone as far to say the eruption directly helped bring Iceland out of its economic recession.

Which volcanoes could predict in the near-future?

The prospect that Iceland will experience more volcanic eruptions in the coming years is not a possibility, but an absolute certainty.

There are four volcanoes that have long required a watchful eye.

Hekla is the first of these. The stratovolcano has erupted over 23 times in the last 1000 years, 4 of those happened in the last century.

In the Middle Ages, Hekla was commonly referred to as ‘ The Gateway to Hell ’—a testament to its lingering infamy and explosive nature.

Anyone who has ever seen footage of, or lava up close, is all too aware how this molten rock can shape itself into appearing like demons and devils desperate to escape to the overworld.

In other words, it’s not difficult to understand why our scientifically illiterate predecessors must have considered terrifying in a biblical sense.

The volcano, Katla, is another of Iceland’s mountains likely to erupt in the coming years.

Only 25 kilometres west of Eyjafjallajökull, Katla is a large volcano and incredibly active, with large-scale eruptions having taken place regularly between 930 CE and 1918 CE.

Historically, eruptions at Katla have occurred with an interlude of 20 - 90 years between them. It has been 103 since the last documented eruption, meaning one is overdue—a fact that Icelanders are all too aware of.

With that said, the area around Katla is one of South Iceland’s biggest attractions, especially its stunning ice caves, available to visit throughout the year - a tour of Katla ice cave should be on every travellers lists!

Katla erupted in 1918. Photo: Wikimedia. CC. RicHard-59.

Katla is one the largest providers of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the world, constituting up to 4% of the world’s total emissions.

Þorbjörn is a free-standing volcano located on the Reykjanes Peninsula, just north of Grindavík town, near the Blue Lagoon. In January 2020, an unusually large magma-build up (‘inflation’) was observed inside the Þorbjörn volcano, expanding roughly 3-4 mm per day.

It should be noted that there is no immediate concern an eruption will take place. The last to occur in the region took place in 1210-1240 CE, in a period known as ‘The Reykjanes Fires.’

Grímsvötn volcano can be found in the beautiful Vatnajökull National Park, best known for the nature reserve, Skafatfell, and the ‘Crown Jewel of Iceland’, Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.

The peak of Grímsvötn measures at 1725 m (5,659 ft). It has the highest eruption frequency of any volcano in Iceland. It last erupted in 1998, 2004 and 2011, the last of which saw an ash plume of 12 kilometres in height.

Recently, Grímsvötn began showing signs that an eruption may soon occur. Scientists have recorded more seismic activity and increased geothermal heat than usual, and they believe that an eruption will likely happen in the next weeks or months.

Grímsvötn is located in the Icelandic Highlands, far enough away from inhabited areas to cause great damage. However, ash from eruptions is always a worry as the world learnt in 2010.

An aerial photo of Grímsvötn erupting. Photo: Grímsvötn Volcano Iceland

It is difficult to predict the consequences of how future eruptions might affect modern-day Iceland, given that it is largely dependent on the size of the explosion and their proximity to densely populated areas.

Conclusion

From a geological perspective, Iceland is one of the most fascinating countries to monitor, observe and explore. With an abundance of powerfully active volcanoes, it’s become part of the way of life for those residing in Iceland to be aware of the chances of the next eruption.

Though Iceland’s volcanoes since 2010 have earned a position on the centre stage of international news coverage, there has been a regularly explosive past from these geological giants all around the country for millennia.

As much as a visit to the land of fire and ice can include everything from Iceland Whale watching tours to a glacier expedition , or simply to hunt the Northern Lights from Reykjavik , you should always be aware of the incredible power that rumbles beneath your feet.

Come and explore Iceland in 2021 to see the mighty Eyjafjallajökull and so much more for yourself.

Why is Iceland Called the Land of Fire and Ice?

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 13:58:30 GMT

Why is Iceland Called the Land of Fire and Ice?

By Chris Ayliffe, Traveo

Photo Credit: Wikimedia. CC. Olikristinn .

Iceland is without a doubt an incredibly unique landscape with completely unmatched rugged nature. On an island only 103,000 km² in size, there is a huge variety of volcanoes, glaciers, black sand beaches, waterfalls, craters and much more making it a nature lover's paradise. But, why is this land nicknamed the land of fire and ice? What is it that cultivated this element of Iceland’s natural identity? And, how can you experience the origins of this name for yourself on a visit?

Iceland sits in the middle of two tectonic plates: North American and Eurasian. This means the west of Iceland sits on the North American plate (e.g. Reykjavik and Snaefellsnes Peninsula ), and the east sits on the Eurasian plate. In simplicity, this means that Iceland is slowly being ripped apart by the forces of nature.

As Iceland sits on a constant source of friction with the movement of two major tectonic plates beneath our feet, volcanism is a major part of the landscape, hence the ‘ fire ’ part of the nickname. This is very clearly visible on a visit to Þingvellir National Park where the canyons you can walk past represent the eastern ridge of the North American tectonic plate.

The ‘ ice ’ part of the nickname comes from Iceland's 269 glaciers that cover roughly 11% of the whole country.

Glaciers have formed in Iceland in the locations where the mean and average annual temperatures sit below 0°C and where winter precipitation in the form of snow surpasses summer melt (e.g. where it snows in the summer months as well as other times in the year).

Now, you won’t find this on the coastal areas where temperatures really only reach 0°C and below during Iceland in winter . However, you will find these conditions more regularly further inland and at higher altitudes.

But, Iceland has another interesting feature that helped create this accurate nickname - frequently Iceland’s glaciers sit on top of volcanoes (Mountaintop glaciers).

Examples of this include the Eyjafjallajökull (1660 m) the location of the major 2010 eruption, and Mýrdalsjökull (1500 m) which sits on top of Iceland’s largest active volcano, Katla.

These mountaintop glaciers are also one of the reasons Iceland has so many incredible waterfalls to explore. It’s also worth noting that at particular glaciers, the air gaps created due to their constant movement creates Iceland’s ice caves . Most notably, you can check out these for yourself with either a Katla ice cave tour or a Vatnajökull ice cave tour .

Source: Full Day Ice Cave Tour from Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon . Traveo .

This is due to the fact that as the active volcanoes release fluids, gases and steam, the overlying ice is constantly melting. This then creates pools of water sandwiched by glacial ice forcing some of this water to drain off at intervals, and occasionally with larger releases of water producing glacial floods, known as Jökulhlaups.

Those exploring Iceland’s South Coast in particular will come across waterfalls such as Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, which happen to be situated between two of Iceland’s magnificent glaciers: Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull.

In fact, the South Coast is blessed with countless stunning waterfalls, largely due to the position of some of Iceland’s largest glaciers.

Source: Iceland’s South Coast Tour with a Glacier Hike & Lava Exhibition . Traveo .

Not only this, but there are also locations of visibly obvious volcanic activity across the whole of Iceland including countless hot springs such as Haukadalur valley with the magnificent geysers (e.g. Strokkur) within Iceland’s famous Golden Circle , and Deildartunguhver which feeds the stunning Krauma spa in West Iceland .

I f you’re also lucky enough to take a trip to North Iceland, there are no more visibly obvious volcanic surroundings than the beautiful hot springs and volcanoes of the Myvatn region. In particular, the Námaskarð black rivers and bubbling pots of sulphuric mud churning endless poisonous gases across the whole area are something well and truly out of a sci-fi imagination.

So, in a nutshell, the reason why Iceland gets the nickname of ‘the land of fire and ice’ is simply down to the volcanic and glacial terrains that continue to shape Iceland’s nature as well as heavily influencing Iceland’s culture.

How Many Glaciers does Iceland have?

Iceland has 269 glaciers which come in a variety of types: ice caps, outlet glaciers, mountain glaciers, alpine, piedmont and cirque glaciers and ice streams.

However, the best known glacier in Iceland is Vatnajökull, which at 8,300 sq. km, it is by far Europe’s largest glacier. In fact, all of Europe’s other glaciers combined would still be smaller. Though it’s hard to give an exact age of all of Iceland’s glaciers, it is suspected that Vatnajökull started to form 2500 years ago, well after the last ice age.

The name Vatnajökull translates in english to mean ‘Water Glacier’. It’s named this due to the sheer number of glacial lakes that sit within it due to the number of active volcanoes it covers, known as subglacial volcanoes .

B y far the most active volcano beneath Vatnajökull is Grímsvötn. This volcano holds the title of the highest frequency of eruptions in Iceland, with at the time of writing, a suspected future eruption is predicted imminently. It previously erupted in 2011 and 2004.

However, in the past this volcano is more synonymous with the Laki fissure eruption in 1783 which decimated a huge number of Iceland’s population and agriculture, as well as impacting the harvests in western Europe which is considered one of the reasons of the French Revolution. Though, where Laki stopped erupting in 1783, Grímsvötn continued well into 1785.

If you’re planning a visit to this region, make sure you stop off at Skaftafell Nature Reserve and take a glacier hike onto one of the many stunning glacier outlets of Vatnajökull . This will allow you to put on your crampons, helmet and take an ice axe right through the many caverns and peaks on this once in a lifetime experience.

Source: 3-Hour Glacier Hike in Skaftafell Nature Reserve . Traveo .

Aside from Vatnajökull, the other most visited glaciers in Iceland are Langjökull which sits in the west feeding the impressive waterfalls of Gullfoss, Hraunfossar and Barnafoss amongst others, and Mýrdalsjökull which sits on top of the mighty volcano, Katla, near the village of Vik.

One of the best ways to visit a glacier in Iceland is to try your hand at snowmobiling. Langjökull, in particular, is an incredibly excessive glacier and snowmobile tours operate all year round . It simply is hard to beat zooming across the top of a glacier's snowy white tundra with mountain peaks surrounding you in an adrenaline pumping ride.

Alternatively, if you’re more interested in delving into these creeping giants, then Mýrdalsjökull is the glacier to visit. With the only natural ice cave open to travellers all year round , this makes for a fantastic experience exploring the blue ice formations, crystal walls and otherworldly caverns within.

How Many Volcanoes does Iceland have?

Iceland has 30 Active volcanic systems. Of those 30, only 13 have erupted since Iceland was settled in 874 AD. On average, Iceland experiences a volcanic eruption roughly once every four years which is incredibly regular.

However, if you take into account both Iceland’s active and dormant volcanoes, then there are actually 48 on the island. Amongst these, there is even the impressive dormant volcano of Thrihnukagigur which now allows travellers the opportunity to descend into an old magma chamber on a day trip to the Reykjanes peninsula.

Due to the continuous levels of volcanic activity, seismologist assessments and reviews are a constant part of life here in Iceland. There is equipment around the country to measure earthquake activity and potential magma buildups 24/7.

As every volcano is monitored, seismologists even implore a scale to detect the biggest potential volcanic risks based on the activity and previous eruptions.

However, this isn’t a cause of stress with Icelanders. Instead, it is simply just a way of life. Keeping aware of the dangers in realtime and respecting nature is ingrained in the culture due to the need to adapt to this incredibly unique environment.

What Volcanic Eruptions Have Happened Recently in Iceland?

Since 2010, Iceland has experienced no less than 4 volcanic eruptions:

2014-2015: Holuhraun (Bárðarbunga) 31 Aug - 27 Feb
2011: Grimsvotn (21 May - 28 May)
2010: Eyjafjallajökull (14 Apr - 23 May)
2010: Fimmvorduhals (20 Mar - 13 Apr)

Bárðarbunga Eruption

Photo Credit: Wikimedia. CC. Peter Hartree.

The latest eruption of Bárðarbunga happened between August 2015 - February 2015. However, as this was primarily a lava eruption without an ash cloud, it didn’t quite make the same level of global headlines as Eyjafjallajökull did in 2010.

However, this eruption was named ‘Holuhraun’ after the lava field it produced. In fact, this was the largest lava field produced in Iceland since the dramatic Laki eruption of 1783 which created the lava field known as Skaftáreldar.

Grimsvotn Eruption

Photo Credit: Wikimedia. CC. Boaworm.

Iceland’s most active volcano, Grimsvotn, erupted for a week in May 2011 (7 years after it’s previous eruption).

This subglacial volcano, however, did produce an ash cloud which rose 17km high (higher than the Eyjafjallajökull eruption) and created an ash fall within 50km of the Vatnajökull region.

As mentioned above, it is currently anticipated that another eruption may occur in 2020. Time to get your camera ready!

Eyjafjallajökull Eruption

The most widely known Iceland volcanic eruption of modern times occurred in 2010. This was the eruption of a partially subglacial volcano known as Eyjafjallajökull.

The eruption, however, occurred in two phases. First, on 20th March the initial eruption started from an ice-free area at 1660m high on the north-east side of the volcano. This produced a lava flow with very minimal explosive activity.

However, the second phase began in the 2.5 km-wide caldera beneath the ice cap near the summit of the volcano on 14th April. This quickly led to the melting of 0.25 km3 of the ice in the crater in the first 2 days alone.

The powerful interaction of magma with water then created a huge explosive plume of volcanic ash reach up to 10km high. Sadly, this was worsened by the winds which carried the ash cloud south-eastwards towards the Faroe Islands, Norway and North Scotland, grounding flights in Europe for 8 days (107,000 flights).

Fimmvorduhals Eruption

Immediately before the Eyjafjallajökull eruption, the Fimmvorduhals eruption happened. It only lasted a week however, ending the day before Eyjafjallajökull erupted.

This eruption was quite unique in the fact that it gave locals and travellers the ability to be within 200m of an erupting volcano.

The eruption itself was located at a 30.5 km hike away from Skogar, with a route climbing up over 1000m in between the neighbouring glaciers of Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull.

A lot of local residents were actually quite disappointed that the eruption ended so quickly, as it was the perfect chance to watch a live lava flow (I’m sure their opinion changed after Eyjafjallajökull erupted next door!).

Conclusion

So, why is Iceland called the land of fire and ice? Simple, the unique relationship between glaciers and volcanoes at a high northerly latitude. Both of these great feats of nature help to carve and craft our unique country into the marvellous spectacle you’ll get to witness as you adventure through it. Whether you’re travelling in the winter months under the Northern Lights or through the long daylight hours of the midnight sun in summer, you’ll be sure to understand how Iceland earned this nickname fully.

Icelanders have the rare given talent of monitoring and measuring mother nature continuously, as well as keeping a healthy respect for what it could bring at any given point in time. Living in between two tectonic plates has its challenges with earthquakes, eruptions and glacial floods, but this is simply just another day in the office for those of us in Iceland. It’s the sheer unpredictability that has even led to some of the best things to see and do in Iceland .

We hope you found this article on why Iceland is called the land of fire and ice helpful, and we’d love to hear and respond to any questions or comments you may have in the section below.

Why You Need to See the Northern Lights in West Iceland

Tue, 04 Aug 2020 10:41:03 GMT

Why You Need to See the Northern Lights in West Iceland

Author: Chris Ayliffe

Perhaps I’m biased, but having seen the Northern Lights in other countries, Iceland is without a doubt the best.

Situated in a perfect spot in the auroral oval, as well as being isolated in the middle of the Atlantic and just outside the realms of the Arctic Circle provides the best climate, tranquility and wondrous environments to watch nature's greatest show play out above our heads. Without the rich folklore, spectacular terrains and passionate Icelanders, watching the Northern Lights during a winter in Iceland just wouldn’t be quite as special.

Frequently, when travellers plan a winter getaway to our shores we hear the question again and again - where is the best place to see the Northern Lights?

Our answer - as much as your chance of seeing the magical Aurora Borealis will depend on a multitude of conditions, when it comes to the most unbelievable views with scenic and peaceful foreground, in my view, you should look no further than West Iceland as the best place to see the Northern Lights in Iceland .

In this blog, I’ll explain why I suggest you check out West Iceland on your next Aurora hunt, the best locations to watch the skies from, the famous folklore as well as the conditions you need to keep your eye on for your best chance of Northern Lights success.

Why Should You Watch to Plan to Watch the Northern Lights in West Iceland?

It’s true, we’re spoiled here in Iceland when it comes to picking a spot to watch the Aurora.

In a land filled with glaciers, volcanoes, mountains, hot springs, black sand beaches as well as endless fjords and waterfalls, you can’t really go wrong when choosing where to watch the Northern Lights from.

However, though many regions will claim they have the advantage, West Iceland has always provided me with my favourite pictures and memories.

If you’re a night owl like me and love nothing more than a self drive tour in Iceland , although ‘going it alone’ comes with an air of trepidation, the thrills of excitement always overpower them.

When you travel to Iceland during our winter months (September - April), you will most likely encounter some less favourable travelling conditions. The temperature is colder, the roads are icier and frequently snow-covered, and your visibility is impacted greatly by the long hours of darkness (not a time to get a tan in Iceland!)

Source: Iceland Snow-Covered Road in Winter. Wikimedia. CC. Ab5602.

With these conditions in mind, again if you’re anything like me, you probably don’t want to take your chances on some mind-boggling mountain passes out on your own. But at the same time you still want to avoid the crowds of people ruining your pictures or leaving their car lights on and impacting your experience.

This is why West Iceland is a firm favourite of mine.

At just a relatively easy hour drive north of Reykjavik, you will have complete solitude if you pick the right locations to find a cloud gap, set up your tripod, hold your hot chocolate and wait for the show.

Source: Small-Group Northern Lights Minibus Tour From Reykjavik . Traveo Iceland .

However, if you’d rather take the hassle and stress from driving yourself out in conditions you’re not used to then a Northern Lights tour can be a fantastic experience. If you’re based in Reykjavik, make sure you avoid the cheap big bus tours, as quite frankly, they are terrible experiences.

Instead, choose a small group Northern Lights minibus tour , or if you’re feeling a little extra adventurous why not splash out a little extra for a Northern Lights Superjeep tour which are built for a multitude of terrains, taking you to places most vehicles cannot get to.

Alternatively, if you want a more intimate experience away from the tourist trail, there are plenty of Private Northern Lights guides who will regularly go out just for fun. These guys track the data, understand the science and will usually be more flexible on how long you stay out for. They basically love watching the Northern Lights, and the passion is contagious!

What Locations Do I Suggest?

There are a number of fantastic locations in West Iceland which appear to be almost carved and crafted for photographers in particular.

If you’re into your photography or simply have a camera and you want to get a once in a lifetime snap, it’s all about the spectacular foreground that really makes your picture pop. This is why setting up camp in the best scenic locations is both a fantastic experience for you as well as also providing a series of photos you’ll be showing off to your friends and family for years to come!

Kirkjufell

Source: Kirkjufell under the Northern Lights. Wikimedia. CC. vaidyanathan.

Known as ‘Church Mountain’ or ‘the mountain shaped like an arrowhead’ if you’re an avid Game of Thrones fan, Kirkjufell is a unique spectacle to check out even without the backdrop of the Northern Lights.

You’ll find Kikrjufell located just a 5-minute drive from the town of Grundarfjörður on the northern side of the Snæfellsnes peninsula, uniquely sitting on it’s own right on the coast. There’s a car park right next to it on the opposite side of the street, so don’t worry about planning a hike.

As a photographer, I’d say you have two main spots to set up your tripod which will heavily depend on conditions.

Firstly, the classic shot you’ll see on all the postcards of Kirkjufell is a short 5-minute walk over a pathway above the adjacent waterfall, known as Kirkjufellfoss. Depending entirely on which month you arrive in, the waterfall will either be completely frozen over or maybe just have a light frosting of snow.

Setting up your camera here will allow you to grab both a long exposure of the waterfall, Kirkjufell and the Northern Lights which should be directly behind the mountain as you face north.

Alternatively, you can park up a little closer to the town of Grundarfjörður, and make your way along the water's edge on the eastern side of the mountain where you will be able to get a picture of the mountain with the Northern Lights both in the sky and reflected in the lake.

If the lake is completely frozen over, it can add an extra surreal element to your photograph which will seem completely otherworldly when you check out your shots the next day.

Be careful as you walk close to the water. I’ve done this in the daytime in winter and the snow can sometimes be thigh deep in places, so you want to make sure you have a torch or headlight and take your time to find a safe place to set up.

The Black Church of Búðir

Source: Búðakirkja under the Northern Lights. Wikimedia. CC. Giuseppe Milo.

Búðakirkja (or ‘Búðir church’) is a favourite picture spot for travellers taking a tour of the Snæfellsnes peninsula due to its unique positioning within Búðahraun lava field and striking contrast to the rugged white mountains in the backdrop.

Though nowadays there is a very nice hotel located very nearby, at night this is often a very secluded spot. It’s also on the southern side of the peninsula meaning a drive from Reykjavik is shorter, and often the mountains to the north can help shield you from stronger winds.

The drive is very straightforward and the surrounding views are unbelievable. With a lava field, mountains, beaches and notoriously some of the least impacted night skies from urban light, I’ve even seen the Milkyway right above my head here.

It’s peaceful, tranquil and breathtaking - what more do you need on an Aurora hunt?!

Hraunfossar & Barnafoss Waterfalls

Source: Hraunfossar Waterfall in Winter. Wikimedia. CC. Boaworm.

Sometimes twins are similar and sometimes they are complete opposites. When it comes to these neighbouring waterfalls, they are without a doubt complete opposites.

Located along route 518, around a 40-minute drive from the town of Borgannes, you can park up and check out the waterfalls of Hraunfossar and Barnafoss.

Hraunfossar is closest to the car park and is a 900 m wide trickling waterfall formed by an ancient subglacial eruption. Translating to ‘lava falls’, this unique and calm spectacle is an incredibly colourful location during the day thanks to the mineral rich lava rivulets.

Much like anywhere in Iceland, though in winter this location is caked in snow and ice, in summer it’s a vibrantly transformed environment with an abundance of flora and fauna.

Source: Barnafoss Waterfall. Wikimedia. CC. Bromr.

A short walk upstream will take you to the much more thunderous and powerful waterfall of Barnafoss. Meaning ‘childrens falls’, this mighty spectacle is remembered by Icelanders for the tale of two children who were deemed to have been taken by the waterfall whilst the villagers attended a church service.

Both of these waterfalls are fantastic to see in the day and can create unique Northern Lights pictures in the darkness. If you opt to visit this location, you’ll want to get shots in front of each for a dramatic long exposure effect.

However, be sure to remain on the footpaths at all times, as the last thing you want is to be swept into these icy waters during the winter season just like the children in the folklore of Barnafoss!

Northern Lights Folklore

It’s fascinating to learn all about Northern Lights folklore which was predominantly developed by the early settlers of the scandinaivan countries. How they made sense of this natural wonder makes the experience that more special as you gaze up at the dancing lights humankind has been pondering over and finding meaning in for centuries.

In Iceland, the Northern Lights were associated with childbirth. It was believed that when the lights were visible, their transcendent powers helped relieve the pains the expectant mothers experienced as long as they didn’t look at the Aurora whilst giving birth. However, a failure to comply with this belief would lead to a child being born cross-eyed. Yes, it’s as bizarre as it sounds!

Source: The Northern Lights in Iceland. Wikimedia. CC. Cameron Pickett.

However, Finland has a more heartwarming tale about an Arctic Fox. The Sámi people believed that once upon a time, an Arctic Fox ran so quickly across the snow that his tail caused sparks to fly into the night sky. This in turn first created the Northern Lights. In finnish, the word for Northern Lights is in fact ‘revontulet’ which translates directly to ‘fire fox’.

Finally, for those of you who may enjoy Norse mythology, or have at least enjoyed the latest Thor marvel movies, there is another legend related to the Valkyrie. In Norse mythology, it’s believed that the Aurora is created by the reflections of light in the shield and armour of the female warriors of the Valkyrie as they head off into battle.

This legend was taken further by others who suggested that the Northern Lights was actually the ‘Bifrost Bridge’. It was a glowing and pulsating arch which would lead the fallen Valkyrie to their final resting place in Valhalla.

What Conditions Do You Need to See the Northern Lights?

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland in winter, make sure you’re not only coming to see the Northern Lights. After all, the country is truly unique and wondrous - it lingers at or near the top spot when it comes to exploring nature for most travellers and should be explored accordingly.

You have to be prepared for the fact that sometimes the conditions simply don’t play ball. For instance, last season whilst remaining close to Reykjavik on most occasions, I saw the Northern Lights around twice a week. Though, this may seem like a lot, you have to be aware of the conditions that give you the best opportunity.

For instance, clouds are your worst nemesis when it comes to seeing the Northern Lights. If it’s cloudy and cloud gaps aren’t forecast anywhere near your vicinity, you won’t see the Northern Lights that night. This is because clouds generally sit at 3 - 16 km high in the sky, whereas the Aurora occurs between 80 - 640 km high, so a fully clouded night will obscure your visibility of the ethereal lights.

My best advice is to keep track of weather websites - learn about them before you come and look for potential cloud gaps. The websites are never 100% accurate, so when in doubt a journey out may give you some well needed luck.

Secondly, try and keep on top of Aurora activity. Nowadays we have a number of fantastic sources which monitor the sun's atmosphere (the ‘corona’), potential solar wind strength and the predicted best times to see the Aurora Borealis.

Don’t worry, you don’t need a masters in astronomy to pick up the basics, and there are several apps that condense this information down into digestible chunks. I regularly check the Space Weather website and anticipate when the stronger solar storms are coming - they make for the most colourful and incredible shows.

Lastly, remain aware of the wind. I know it sounds silly but in Iceland the volatility of the wind can vary dramatically on any given day.

If there are weather warnings out in your location or the location you’re planning on travelling to, it’s best to stay inside and stay safe. The Northern Lights are awesome, but surviving to tell the tale is way more important.

If you’re wanting some more support on the best times and locations to watch the Northern Lights, this Instagram account provides a daily digestible Northern Lights forecast during the winter months in Iceland. It’s simple to understand and provides great information to take advantage of, particularly when you only have a few days in Iceland.

Conclusion

Watching and photographing the Northern Lights are without a doubt one of the best things to do in Iceland . Every night as you gaze to the heavens, you are seeing a completely different show to what anyone has ever seen before. This marvel written in folklore across the northern hemisphere is an item near the top of many peoples bucket list and each experience will be completely unique and different.

Perhaps I’m biased, but the proximity, ease of travel and most dramatic landscapes for Northern Lights hunters is best in West Iceland. With a selection of magnificent foregrounds, tranquil locations and frankly out of this world night skies, you will struggle to go wrong.

You can even take the chance to unwind at the delightful Krauma spa , positioned perfectly in the rugged rural snowy terrain of West Iceland. After days of exploration and adventure, sometimes the Northern Lights will show themselves to you even as you relax in the geothermal pools of Krauma.

Breathe in the experience and cherish the moment under the dazzling night skies on an Icelandic winter.

You can also see the Northern Light in Tromsø if you are situated in that part of Norway.

All You Need to Know About Ok Glacier, the first Dead Glacier in Iceland

Fri, 24 Jul 2020 14:24:55 GMT

All You Need to Know About Ok Glacier, the first Dead Glacier in Iceland

Author: Raquel Herrera

What is the Ok Glacier, and why is it famous? Why are glaciers important to Iceland? How has climate change affected the glaciers, and what are the dangers they face? Keep reading to learn more about Ok (and other glaciers) in Iceland!

Iceland is surrounded by volcanoes and glaciers, which is why it is sometimes referred to as ‘The Land of Fire and Ice’. In fact, around 11% of the country is covered with glaciers, and some of them cover active volcanoes.

Exploring the glaciers is one of the most popular activities in Iceland , and the options are varied. For example, you can go glacier hiking, snowmobiling or ice climbing. If you are visiting Iceland in winter , you can even explore a natural ice cave inside a glacier.

But, what exactly is a glacier?

When the temperature is as cold as it is on top of mountains (including volcanoes) in Iceland, falling snow doesn’t melt. Over the years, this snow compresses into a large, thick ice mass known as a glacier.

Glaciers are also constantly moving because of internal pressure (its own weight and gravity). Although slow, this movement can drastically change the surrounding landscape, but it will take hundreds or even thousands of years.

They also change internally; they slowly deform as they flow and create cracks and sometimes incredible glacial ice caves.

Glaciers also give place to glacial rivers which, when merged with natural hot springs, can create the perfect temperature for bathing. A good example is Krauma Spa, that mixes the waters from the Deildartunguhver hot springs and Ok, the “Dead Glacier”.

A Brief History of Ok Glacier

Ok Glacier (Okjökull, in Icelandic) was the smallest glacier in Iceland. It was located on top of the Ok shield volcano, in the Western region of the country. The Ok volcano is situated near Langjökull glacier and Þórisjökull volcano, halfway between Reykjavík and the Snæfellsnes peninsula.

Ok officially lost its glacier-status in 2014, when it was no longer thick enough to move, and it was reduced to a small ice cap on top of a volcano.

Although it was declared “dead” that year, it probably died around a decade ago. But it is the first glacier in Iceland we lose to global warming and the scientific community has warned that hundreds of other glaciers in Iceland could soon disappear.

In 2018, a documentary named “Not Ok” was released to increase awareness about this event and the consequences of climate change in glaciers.

A year later, “funeral” was held for Ok Glacier. A commemorative plaque was installed with the global atmospheric carbon dioxide number for that month: 415 ppm. It also has an inscription from Icelandic writer and activist Andri Snær Magnason which reads:

A letter to the future

Ok is the first Icelandic glacier to lose its status as a glacier.

In the next 200 years, all our glaciers are expected to follow the same path.

This monument is to acknowledge that we know

what is happening and what needs to be done.

Only you know if we did it.

The area where the glacier once lived was renamed Ok, and the “jökull” suffix, which means ‘glacier’ in Icelandic, has been removed.

The Importance of Glaciers in Iceland

Around 11% of Iceland is covered with glaciers, and they perform an important function in the country and worldwide.

First of all, they help to hold back the pace of climate change. When the glaciers melt, they cause sea levels to rise, altering the planet’s ecosystem and threatening corals, fish and local wildlife.

Glaciers in Iceland often induce jökulhlaups or glacial outburst floods that can threaten the population. They are a vital part of deglaciation, and they modify the landscape on land and near-shore continental shelves.

The glaciers are also the greatest water storage in Iceland used for electrical production, and they correspond to the precipitation of 20 years. For this reason, they have been, and still are, researched and monitored thoroughly.

Photo Credit: Flickr. Julien Ice .

Iceland's largest glaciers are located in the South and the central Highlands since these are the regions with much higher precipitation.

How Climate Change is Affecting the Glaciers

When Iceland was being created, glaciers used to be small. They grew fast during the latter part of the Middle Ages and the 19th century. After this period, they started retreating and are continuing to decrease in size.

It is not a secret that glaciers are melting very fast due to global warming. According to some researchers, deglaciation in Iceland happens at a rate of about 40 square kilometres annually, meaning that the island can be entirely glacier-free within 200 years.

This is the case of Ok Glacier. However, Ok is not the first one in the world to “die”. There are smaller glacial masses that have also disappeared. Still, if glaciers the size of Ok are already in extinction, it is just a matter of time when larger ones will follow.

Image Credit: AFP/Nasa

However, despite losing its glacier-status, Ok still produces enough water to create an authentic geothermal bathing experience at Krauma Spa.

What Can You Expect at Krauma Nature Baths?

Krauma Nature Baths are situated in an excellent location in West Iceland, just between Reykjavík and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. It is often considered a more affordable and quieter option to the famous Blue Lagoon Spa.

Source: Entry to West Iceland’s Krauma Nature Baths . Traveo Iceland .

The hot water at Krauma comes from Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring. It is mixed with the cold water that originated in the Ok Glacier, achieving the ideal bathing temperature.

Krauma offers a total of six baths (five warm and one cold) of different sizes and temperatures where guests are welcome to relax and sunbathe.

The spa also features two saunas with outdoor showers and a relaxation room with a fireplace and soothing music that creates the perfect atmosphere.

Krauma Spa also has a restaurant that can seat up to 70 people inside and 60 people in the terrace. Here, you can enjoy a meal after your bath to make your visit even more worthwhile.

What Other Glaciers Can You Find in Iceland?

Besides the Ok Glacier in the West of Iceland, there are other famous glaciers that you can find all around the country.

Vatnajökull is the largest glacier in Iceland and Europe. It is located in the southeast corner of the country, and it covers approximately 8% of the island. Vatnajökull has several outlet glaciers flowing from the ice cap, and it was used as a shooting location for the HBO series of Game of Thrones.

Second in size is Langjökull, which means “Long Glacier”. It is situated in western Iceland, very close to Ok Glacier. It is easily accessible from Geysir, one of the stops in the Golden Circle of Iceland , and is known for its snowmobiling tours and a man-made ice cave tunnels.

Other famous glaciers include Mýrdalsjökull and Eyjafjallajökull, both located in the South of Iceland. The former is home to the only ice cave accessible year-round .

The latter became famous when a volcano underneath it erupted in 2010, causing enormous disruption to air travel across western and northern Europe.

Another glacier that is worth a mention is Snæfellsjökull, which served as an inspiration for Jules Verne’s science fiction novel Journey to the Centre of the Earth .

Best Things to See and Do in West Iceland

Tue, 21 Jul 2020 13:50:10 GMT

Best Things to See and Do in West Iceland

Author: Chris Ayliffe

If you’re planning a visit to Iceland, then the west of the country needs to be high on your list. With an abundance of rugged landscapes of mountains, lava fields, waterfalls, lava caves and a tranquil spa destination, it’s the perfect region to take your time exploring.

However, what are the best things to sightsee in West Iceland? Where do you definitely need to stop off at? What are the hidden gems of this region? And, what do locals recommend for the optimum experience?

In this blog, I will answer all these questions and more, from the geological and volcanic wonders to the most incredible viewing points to get the very best from your trip to West Iceland.

Why Should You Travel to West Iceland?

West Iceland is much overlooked when comparing it to the main tourist trails of the South Coast and the Golden Circle . However, West Iceland arguably has even more diversity and a selection of off the beaten path hidden gems which give it an edge in the battle of the regions.

As an avid traveller, it is often more rewarding to find and explore the locations which are often a little lesser-known to get a more authentic and intimate experience with the country.

West Iceland ticks these boxes well. Though there are regular visitors to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, it is much rarer that travellers explore some of the less well documented places which I will cover in this blog as well.

In simplicity, West Iceland has a whole character and charm unique to itself which makes it a region firmly not to be missed.

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula

It’s true that a trip to West Iceland isn’t complete without checking out the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Nicknamed ‘Iceland in miniature’ for the sheer variety of landscapes in such a small region that contains mountains, a glacier, lava fields, craters, a lava cave, black sand beaches, seal viewing spots and some of the most incredible coastal lines with regular Icelandic sea stacks (or ‘trolls’).

If you’re driving on your own or part of a tour to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula , you will easily get to explore the very best sites in a day. I would highly suggest starting your trip along the southern coastline and working your way around the peninsula and across the north.

Arnarstapi & Hellnar

You’ll first visit the charming fishing towns of Arnarstapi and Hellnar which offer some pleasant scenic walks along the coastline. These include some incredible basalt caverns on the water's surface being constantly battered by the powerful ocean currents, as well as some fantastic rock arches.

One of these rock arches allows you to walk directly across the ocean beneath. This is an incredible photo opportunity and one for those who’ve brought some extra courage for the day.

Lóndrangar

Source: Lóndrangar. Wikimedia. CC. Markus Trienke.

A little further along the south side of the peninsula will take you to the fantastically picturesque Lóndrangar. These are a pair of rock pinnacles which are actually volcanic plugs of basalt carved over generations from the continuous rock erosion. Both Lóndrangar’s positioning and stature make it a much-loved location for photographers in particular.

Vatnshellir Lava Cave

Source: Vatnshellir lava cave tour . Traveo Iceland .

For the geology lovers among you, taking a tour at Vatnshellir lava cave is an absolute must.

Here, your guide will lead you down a narrow stairwell and through some of the ancient caverns of an old lava cave. Take your time to carefully explore the caverns and gather some spectacular pictures of the colourful rock formations that sit beneath.

Snæfellsjökull

Afterwards, you’ll round the corner of the centrepiece of the peninsula, Snæfellsjökull. This gargantuan glacier sits on top of a large dormant volcano, considered to be the entry point for the characters in Jules Verne’s 19th century classic novel, A Journey to the Centre of the Earth.

For the photographers among you, as you travel a little further around the peninsula, there’s an incredible spot on your right-hand side of a church called Ingjaldshóll. This provides the backdrop of the glacier, with a rich field in front of you with the church quaintly sitting on top of a hill. If you’re travelling in the summer months, the fields will likely be filled with the delightful Lupine flower.

Kirkjufell

Just outside of the quiet fishing town of Grundarfjörður, sit’s the enigmatic mountain of Kirkjufell.

In english, the name ‘Kirkjufell’ translates to ‘Church Mountain’. However, this unique mountain which sits away from the adjacent mountain range, is more commonly known as ‘the mountain shaped like an arrowhead’ by travellers due to the hit HBO show, Game of Thrones.

When you stop here, make sure you take your time to walk behind the opposite waterfall of Kirkjufellfoss. Though this waterfall is easily a beautiful natural feature in it’s own right, when you stand just behind the top of the falls you’re in the best spot for a perfect shot of the waterfall and the mountain in one frame.

If you’re travelling in the winter months, Kirkjufell is perhaps the best foreground to capture some images of the Northern Lights. Watching the lights dance and curve over this incredible mountain, easily make this one of the best locations for watching the Northern Lights in Iceland .

Stykkishólmur

Source: Stykkishólmur. Wikimedia. CC. Nojhan.

As one of the larger fishing towns on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Stykkishólmur packs a variety of character and culture sitting amidst it’s tranquil environment.

You can easily explore the town on foot. The two most scenic locations come from the church on top of the hill which gazes down upon the rest of the town, and Súgandisey cliff, which after a short 5-minute walk up an easily climbed stair path offers unparalleled views of the surrounding bay and the edge of the Westfjords on a clear day.

Stykkishólmur is also renowned as being the town featured in the hollywood hit movie, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. For those of you who enjoy this movie as much I do, it’s the scene where Walter (played by ‘Ben Stiller’) gets the courage to jump into a moving helicopter, in which his adventure really begins.

The building Walter Mitty runs from is actually the town’s old library which at the time of writing is currently abandoned. I wouldn’t, however, recommend recreating the scene in the winter months like I did which led to a very sore slip on the ice (Ground Control to Major Ow!).

Hraunfossar & Barnafoss

Outside of the immaculate Snæfellsnes Peninsula lies a duo of impressive waterfalls which sit right next to each other along route 518 (the following sections are all on this route).

First, there’s Hraunfossar which is a series of waterfalls formed by rivulets pouring over a distance of 900m out of the Hallmundarhraun lava field. This was formed as a result of an ancient eruption from one of the volcanoes that sits beneath Iceland’s Langjökull glacier.

Langjökull glacier is also the perfect place to try the ultimate winter activity on a snowmobiling tour for those of you keen to dare yourselves.

Source: Golden Circle Super Jeep Tour with Snowmobiling on a Glacier . Traveo Iceland .

A short walk upstream from Hraunfossar is it’s much more thunderous neighbour, Barnafoss. Translating into english as ‘Children’s Waterfall’, this waterfall rich in vibrant blue colours has a tale of its own.

Source: Barnafoss. Wikimedia. CC. Loveless.

The story goes, on one Christmas day the household of Hraunsás went to attend mass, with the exception of two children who were told to stay home.

However, once the family returned, the children had vanished. Only their footprints in the snow could be found which led up to a rock arch which once crossed the mighty Barnafoss. In anguish, the mother then had the arch destroyed to prevent any other occurrence of this almighty tragedy (though the children were never found).

Víðgelmir Lava Cave

Source: Vidgelmir lava tube tour . Traveo Iceland .

Víðgelmir is a lava cave situated in the Hallmundarhraun lava field much further upstream to the waterfalls of Hraunfossar and Barnafoss.

What’s special about this location is that because the roof of the lava tube has collapsed, it’s created two large openings which are the only known entrances to this natural wonder.

The lava tube is 1585m long and the largest part of the passage reaches up to 15.8m high and 16.5m wide, which is the largest lava tube in Iceland.

You can take a tour deep into this ancient volcanic underbelly which is believed to have formed at around 900AD. Be careful when exploring the deep passages within and make sure you bring your camera with you for some of the most otherworldly shots imaginable. It is the land of fire and ice after all!

Reykholt

Though just a small village, Reykholt remains a site of incredible historical importance to Icelanders.

It’s primarily known as the home of the historian, scholar and chieftain, Snorri Sturluson who resided here between 1206 - 1241 .

His influence on Icelandic culture, language and literature is second to none having produced Heimskringla, Edda and Egil’s Saga which have now been translated into many languages. They have also served as a source of inspiration to both art and literature across the globe for many centuries.

His writings also helped to preserve evidence of the ancient Germanic cultural heritage, which without his contribution, our modern day understanding of Iceland’s medieval culture would be limited. This even includes the recordings of legends and much of known Norse Mythology.

If you’re a history buff keen to learn more, make sure you stop off at the Snorrastofa Visitors centre which is situated in a building behind the church. It’s well worth a stop to understand this cultural icon a little more.

Krauma Spa

Source: Entry to West Iceland’s Krauma Nature Baths . Traveo Iceland .

After a long day of travelling and exploring the wonders of West Iceland, there’s simply nothing better than taking a load off and relaxing at the wonderful Krauma Spa.

Crafted with a series of outdoor hot baths and one cold, as well as a stylish and peaceful relaxation room, this is the perfect way to end a day in true Iceldnic style.

What makes this spa particularly special, is the fact that the waters are fed by glacial meltwater and heated by the most powerful neighbouring hot spring in Europe, Deildartunguhver .

With mineral-rich healing waters from the purest sources, this combination of hot spring and glacial water is the perfect cocktail of what gives Iceland the name ‘the land of fire and ice’.

Whether you’re visiting West Iceland during the summer months to bathe in Krauma Spa and admire it’s unparalleled rural views under the long days of the midnight sun , or in the winter months with the perfect spot to watch the northern lights from, this is without a doubt a great stop off for any Iceland trip you have planned.

Conclusion

There’s no question, if you’re planning on visiting Iceland soon, make sure you have West Iceland on your list. It’s sheer variety, history, geology and cultural significance makes it by far one of the best locations in Iceland. Combining this with the number of once in a lifetime activities you can include, it also provides some of the best things to do in Iceland .

When you check out West Iceland, make sure you spare plenty of time to explore and discover the awesome and the bizarre landmarks, experience some of the incredible activities, and we’ll see you at the end of the day for the perfect way to unwind.

Everything You Need to Know About Deildartunguhver (and other Hot Springs) in Iceland

Mon, 06 Jul 2020 16:16:25 GMT

Everything You Need to Know About Deildartunguhver (and other Hot Springs) in Iceland

Author: Michael Chapman

Where is the Deildartunguhver hot spring in Iceland, and what is the best way to visit? Just how powerful is Deildartunguhver, and can you find hot springs in Iceland elsewhere? Read on to find out more information about Deildartunguhver (and other Hot Springs) in Iceland.

Bathing in geothermal hot springs regularly crops up among the most exciting activities one can participate in when visiting Iceland. Just like the Midnight Sun , or the majestic Northern Lights , geothermal spas have become synonymous with this small Nordic isle.

Many guests are looking to keep their experience as authentic as possible, relaxing in waters that are naturally drawn from beneath the earth.

It should be made clear that not all hot springs are safe to enter.

That’s not to say guests won’t find some dotted across the island—noticeably, in the Highlands or Reykjadalur Valley—but those looking for a natural experience paired with well-managed luxury will find specialised spas and resorts the most rewarding.

For instance, many travellers passing through the sublime landscapes of West Iceland might notice clouds of white steam billowing on the horizon.

This is because they are nearby to the famous Deildartunguhver hot spring, one of the area’s best, yet lesser-known natural attractions. Visiting this site is made all the better given the luxurious Krauma Spa sits just on its doorstep, offering both sightseeing and bathing opportunities.

The white steam of Deildartunguhver. Photo: Flickr. martin_vmorris

What is the Deildartunguhver hot spring?

Located in Iceland’s steamy Reykholtsdalur Valley—some 97 kilometres (60 miles) from the historic Reykholt village —Deildartunguhver is considered Europe’s most powerful hot spring.

This is due to its rapid flow rate, pushing 180 litres (380 pints) of hot water per second.

This water temperature measures at a staggering 97°C -100°C (207°F - 212°F), making it the perfect energy source for the neighbouring geothermal baths, Krauma Spa.

Given the high temperature, Krauma Spa mixes Deildartunguhver’s water with that from Okjökull—an ancient glacier that, sadly, lost its official glacier-status due to diminishing mass.

(As a side note; the depletion and ultimate death of Okjökull is one of this country’s best-known examples as to the genuine consequences of a steadily warming climate.)

This perfected blend of glacial and geothermal water creates the optimum bathing temperatures—wonderfully suited for travellers looking to sit back and relax after a long day exploring the many treasures of West Iceland.

The unrelenting subterranean power of Deildartunguhver is also used to heat Icelandic homes. Directly from the hot spring itself, pipes extend all the way to the towns of Borgarnes and Akranes , the latter being some 64 kilometres (40 miles) away from the origin.

Deildartunguhver is always billowing. Photo: Krauma

As such, anybody showering within a 64 kilometre radius of the hot spring will be doing so in water from Deildartunguhver.

Unlike Iceland’s most famous hot spring, Strokkur on the Golden Circle route, Deildartunguhver does not eject water at various intervals but instead remains billowing at a constant rate.

Due to the water’s extreme heat, there is always the danger that guests venturing too close will inadvertently injure themselves.

Because of this, a series of wooden walkways and barriers have been erected to keep observers at a safe distance and out of harm’s way.

Other attractions nearby to Deildartunguhver include the likes of Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls and the impressive Víðgelmir lava cave.

The History of Deildartunguhver Hot Spring

The Deildartunguhver hot spring has long been of value to the Icelandic people.

In the past, residents of the local area used the spring to wash their clothes, as well as provide heat to their homes.

Evidence at Deildartunguhver exists of an 80-90-year-old wooden duct built precisely for this purpose, travelling from the depths of the hot spring to a former home around 600 metres away.

The luxuries that this would have provided—a personal sauna, hot showers, as well as the means to steam food—would have been considered atypical of Icelandic homesteads at the time.

An old photograph of the local Deildartunguhver family. Photo: Krauma

According to records, the land on which the Deildartunguhver hot spring sits was owned by a woman named Sigurbjörg Björnsdóttir (1886-1984), the matriarch of a large local family. Her family was said to have been in control of the land for nearly 200 years.

With such a deep and lasting connection, it should come as no surprise then that many claim Sigurbjörg knew better than anyone as to the hot spring’s beneficial healing powers.

Eventually, the land was expropriated by the Icelandic state. This has been a trend for multiple decades now, with the most famous example being that of Gullfoss waterfall.

Be that as it may, many consider Sigurbjörg’s vision to have been a leading cause behind the construction of Krauma Geothermal Nature Baths, a modern and luxurious facility first opened in 2017.

What does Krauma Geothermal Nature Baths offer?

An aerial shot of Krauam. The steam of Deildartunguhver can be seen in the foreground. Photo: Krauma

Many visitors consider Krauma to be a quieter, smaller and cheaper alternative to the more famous Blue Lagoon Spa, which is found on the Reykjanes Peninsula.

Krauma offers the rare benefit of being able to actually see the source of this heat while bathing, making for a somewhat dramatic relaxation experience.

For anyone looking for a calm and tranquil bathing experience amidst Iceland’s nature, Krauma will not disappoint.

The pools at Krauma Spa. Photo: Krauma

There are a total of five natural geothermal baths, two saunas, a cold-water tub and a dedicated relaxation room, complete with a flickering fireplace, meditative music and designated lounge chairs.

The various hot pools come in different levels of heat, with the cold-tub explicitly designed in mind to get the blood circulating in between dips.

Relaxing in such incredible surroundings is sure to build up an appetite. Thankfully, Krauma boasts its own sophisticated restaurant.

Capable of seating up to seventy people inside, and 60 people on its outside terrace, this fine-dining establishment focuses on serving quality meals made with the freshest local ingredients.

Guests can choose between such main dishes as slow-cooked lamb fillet, spicy cajun salmon, homemade soups and burgers.

As is to be expected, there are also several vegetarian dishes available, as well as desserts, light snacks and a plethora of hot and cold beverages.

Guests enjoying food at Krauma’s restaurant. Photo: Krauma

Are there any other Hot Springs in Iceland?

If, by this stage, your travel itinerary is so packed that visiting Deildartunguhver is simply not possible—have no fear!

There are plenty of other popular locations to see hot springs in Iceland, each offering their own fantastic insights into the terrestrial power that bubbles beneath this island’s surface.

The steaming landscapes of the Reykjanes Peninsula. Photo: Flickr. Jennifer Boyer.

The three best-known examples include those in the Reykjanes Peninsula and in Geysir Geothermal Valley—both found in the South-West—and Námaskarð Pass, located beside Lake Mývatn in North Iceland.

The most famous of Reykjanes’ hot springs is Gunnuhver, found a short distance from Reykjanes lighthouse.

According to legends, this steaming region is named after a young woman who was tricked into falling into one of the hot springs—she is said to still haunt the Reykjanes Peninsula today.

Strokkur (“churn”) is the superstar of Geysir geothermal valley. Visitors to this attraction will witness a powerful plume of water ejected from the ground every ten minutes or so.

This stunning geothermal eruption sees water reaching heights of up to 20 metres in the air.

Strokkur erupts. Photo: Small Group Golden Circle Tour with Snorkelling in Silfra Fissure

Naturally, Strokkur has become one of Iceland’s most widely photographed features and is often used to publicise the country’s staggering nature.

Geysir geothermal valley makes up one third of the popular Golden Circle sightseeing route, alongside the UNESCO World Heritage site, Þingvellir National Park, and Gullfoss waterfall.

Those visiting Námaskarð Pass will, no doubt, find themselves in awe of the vivid red and orange landscape that surrounds its many bubbling hot springs and steamy calderas.

Surrounded by such otherworldly terrain, many guests comment that Námaskarð appears more like the planet Mars than anywhere on earth.

The red landscapes of Námaskarð Pass. Photo: Flickr. Bjarki Sigursveinsson

Lake Mývatn and its surrounding attractions—Námaskarð, the Dimmuborgir rock formations and Grjótagjá cave—can be seen as part of the Diamond Circle sightseeing route.

Other points of interest on the Diamond Circle include the ‘ Whale Watching Capital of Europe ’, Húsavík town, the horseshoe shaped canyon, Ásbyrgi, and the ever-impressive Dettifoss waterfall.

It should be noted that natural hot springs found out in Iceland’s wilderness exceed temperatures comfortable for bathing. In fact, most are so hot that attempting to do so would likely cause serious injury.

With that said, there are a number of natural hot pools where the water temperature is safe to enjoy. These include some of those found in Landmannalaugar (in the Highlands), the steamy warm river in Reykjadalur valley, and Hellulaug in the Westfjords.

Before setting out to find a natural hot pool for yourself, make sure to do some preparation beforehand to ensure your visit will be safe.

History of Geothermal Spas in Iceland

Fri, 12 Jun 2020 17:47:55 GMT

History of Geothermal Spas in Iceland

Did you know that bathing in geothermal water is an Icelandic tradition that dates back to the twelfth century and the actual settlement of Iceland? Flashforward to present day, and one of the main appeals for travellers coming to Iceland is still the wonder of bathing in geothermal water.

Offering slightly more comfort than the primitive pools of the middle age, today’s geothermal spas in Iceland have made way for luxury experiences embedded in raw Icelandic nature.

Continue reading to find out how the geothermal spa in Iceland became what it is today.

What is a geothermal pool/spa?

I bet you are familiar with what a pool and spa is, so what you really are asking is; what does geothermal mean? The word “geothermal” has its origin in the greek language and consists of geo meaning earth, and thermos meaning hot.

Thus, when speaking of geothermal pools, what we essentially mean is a pool heated with energy from the earth.

How is geothermal energy extracted?

Geothermal energy is found in reservoirs of hot water under the ground in earth’s crust. These water accumulations are heated by the high temperatures within earth and can be tapped into by drilling, alternatively, the water can rise naturally to the surface of earth in what we call hot springs. The hot water or steam can be exploited for heating or cooling purposes, or to generate electricity.

Why is geothermal water used for spas?

As heated water is able to hold more dissolved solids than cold water, the water found in hot springs is usually also high in mineral content. Bathing in mineral-rich water is believed to have a number of health benefits, which makes areas in close proximity to hot springs attractive locations for geothermal spa facilities.

Why does Iceland have so many geothermal pools and spas?

It cannot have escaped anybody’s attention that Iceland is situated over a fissure between tectonic plates; more specifically - on top of the Eurasian and North American plates. This geological location provides an advantage, as geothermal energy exploitation is more or less limited to areas near rifts in tectonic plates.

Geothermal energy is preferred not only due to being more sustainable and environmentally friendly, but also because of being superior in terms of cost-efficiency compared to other energy sources.

The cost-efficiency of geothermal energy is essentially what makes it possible to have so many pools and spas in Iceland. In some cases the excess water from a geothermal power plant can be used at spas, in other cases water can be taken directly from a nearby hot spring, e.g. Krauma utilises Deildartunguhver hot spring (read more about Krauma geothermal spa here).

And yes - it is a given that the appeal with cozying up in a warm pool grows as you start to understand that Iceland a larger part of the year is forced into darkness and questionable weather.

Hot spring bathing through the ages

One of the oldest and most famous man-made hot tubs in Iceland can be found in Reykholt and is fed by hot spring Skrifla. It belonged to renowned historian, poet, and politician Snorri Sturluson who moved there in the 13th century. Snorralaug, as the tub is called, was first mentioned in “Landnáma” or the book of settlement, in which written evidence suggests that it was taken into use already in the 10th century.

Hot springs have however been used for bathing even earlier than that in places where geothermal water in suitable temperatures have collected naturally.

Despite the early history of bathing, swimming has not always been a common skill among Icelanders. Many fishermen of the old days drowned after capsizing, sometimes with shore in sight, owing to the lack of swimming skills. With these harsh realisations, swimming became a desired skill among Icelanders. People started to learn swimming in water-filled ditches, where women used to do laundry.

A definite turning point occurred when a drill that was imported to help Icelanders in their search for gold, after failed attempts instead was used for another purpose - to extract geothermal resources. With consequent unlimited access to hot water, and as swimming became a mandatory part of education in 1943 - pools started popping up everywhere and people actually learned how to swim.

Today every town or neighbourhood has their own public swimming pool, adding up to a total of over 120 public pools in Iceland. These public swimming pools are a place for relaxation and socialisation for the Icelandic people; this is where families and friends meet up after a long day to sit back and discuss anything and everything.

The birth of geothermal spas in Iceland

At some stage, bathers started to realise the healing properties of geothermal water. Sufferers of different skin conditions noticed that the mineral-rich water relieved their symptoms and people from all over the world started traveling to Iceland to cure their illnesses.

The business opportunities were obvious and in later years geothermal spa facilities have popped up in every corner of Iceland; much appreciated by locals as well as tourists. The old veterans Secret Lagoon, recognised as the oldest pool in Iceland, and Blue Lagoon, created in its first form in 1987, were in 2004 accompanied by Mývatn Nature Baths, Krauma in 2017, GeoSea in 2018 and finally Vök Baths in 2019, to mention a few.

Why visit a geothermal spa while in Iceland?

The geothermal spa is today something of a trademark for Iceland. Bathing in geothermal pools is part of the Icelandic heritage, tradition and culture. The geothermal resources provide affordable mineral-rich water, making it ideal for spas facilities, meanwhile the mild climate lends it well to soaking in a warm hot tub.

In other words - geothermal spas fit right into the Icelandic experience and you should definitely try it out.

Iceland is home to many incredible spa facilities where you can take a moment to recharge on your adventure. We have put together the ultimate guide to Iceland’s geothermal spas for you here.

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Why a Boat Tour on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Needs to be on Your Bucket List

Why a Boat Tour on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Needs to be on Your Bucket List

Everything You Need To Know About The 2010 Eyjafjallajökull Eruption in Iceland

Everything You Need To Know About The 2010 Eyjafjallajökull Eruption in Iceland

Why is Iceland Called the Land of Fire and Ice?

Why is Iceland Called the Land of Fire and Ice?

Why You Need to See the Northern Lights in West Iceland

Why You Need to See the Northern Lights in West Iceland

All You Need to Know About Ok Glacier, the first Dead Glacier in Iceland

All You Need to Know About Ok Glacier, the first Dead Glacier in Iceland

Best Things to See and Do in West Iceland

Best Things to See and Do in West Iceland

Author: Chris Ayliffe ﻿ ﻿

Why Should You Travel to West Iceland?

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Arnarstapi & Hellnar

Lóndrangar

Vatnshellir Lava Cave

Snæfellsjökull

Kirkjufell

Stykkishólmur

Hraunfossar & Barnafoss

Víðgelmir Lava Cave

Reykholt

Krauma Spa

Conclusion

Everything You Need to Know About Deildartunguhver (and other Hot Springs) in Iceland

Everything You Need to Know About Deildartunguhver (and other Hot Springs) in Iceland

History of Geothermal Spas in Iceland

History of Geothermal Spas in Iceland

Why a Boat Tour on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Needs to be on Your Bucket List

Author: Chris Ayliffe