Attractions - Iceland

Attractions - Reykjavik

South Iceland

South Iceland boasts many of the country’s most celebrated attractions. Gulfloss, the spectacular waterfall, and the original Geysir are globally renowned but are matched in loveliness by many lesser-known sites. Off the southern coast, volcanic islands burst through the waves, and to the west the world’s third largest icecap dominates the landscape. Rich in historical and natural interest, this region, known as the ‘Golden Circle’, is deservedly popular.

Gullfloss is perhaps Iceland’s ‘star’ attraction and a visit will quickly reveal the reason. Stare in wonder as the river Hvita falls a total of 32 metres in a series of breathtaking cascades. On a sunny day a rainbow is visible through the falls and a vast cloud of spray hangs over the surrounding area. The original Geysir, after which all the world’s hot springs were named, is not far from here. The Great Geysir used to spurt to a height of over 60 metres but alas no longer. Make for the geysir at nearby Strokkur which sprays up to 20 metres every 3 minutes. The creative and destructive cycle of geothermal activity is further evident in the many volcanoes of the region.

Breathtaking cascades and awesome eruptions...

The near perfect cone of the volcano Hekla stands at almost 1500 metres and erupted as recently as 1991. It may be climbed by the intrepid but remember that it was once held to be the entrance to hell. Nearby, another volcano, Katla, lies beneath a vast icecap. Its eruptions send a vast wall of melted ice down to the plains below. However the yawning 25 km fissure, Lakagigar, is the most destructive of all. An eruption in the 18th century killed more than 1/5 of the island’s population and over half the livestock. The creative element of the cycle is evident in the many volcanic islands off the south coast. The most famous is Surtsey which since its ‘birth’ in 1963 has grown to over 150 metres in height.

For sites of historical interest head to the recreated medieval farm at Stong. Selfoss is the reputed burial site of the country’s first settler and Thingvellir is the home of the original Icelandic parliament. Vik, the country’s southernmost village is a pleasant traders base. But prepare yourself for rain as it also holds the dubious distinction of being the country’s wettest spot. Bring a raincoat and enjoy the magnificent birdlife on the surrounding cliffs. For magnificent ice formations and polar beauty check out the Vatnajokull icecap in the Skaftafell national park.

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