Curator’s statement
Iceland is a destination unlike any you have ever experienced. It is a place where you will find everything from black sand beaches, to waterfalls, to glaciers, to lava fields and so much more. This country felt like stepping into a movie scene and was unlike any other place I have ever seen. After a week traveling the whole island, I would tell anyone to move it to the top of their travel list.
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Things to do in Iceland
Gullfoss, meaning "Golden Falls", is an iconic two-tiered waterfall on the Hvítá River in Southwest Iceland.
Whale watching
Iceland’s waters are home to some of the largest concentrations of whales in the North Atlantic, and over 20 species can be found here. The boat ride itself gives you an amazing view of the country and seeing a whale emerge from the sea is something special. We saw around 15 whales while on our tour!
Vigur Island
Who can resist the cuteness of a puffin? Now imagine seeing hundreds of them at once! This island is home to four people and thousands of birds, only accessible by boat. It is worth the trip out to experience this one-of-a-kind place.
Golden Circle tour
The Golden Circle includes waterfalls, geysers, craters, and tectonic plates meetings, all in one tour. These incredible natural creations give you a view into all that Iceland is made of. End the tour with a spot at one of Iceland’s many lagoons to relax after taking in our planet’s beauty.
Lagoon visits
Iceland is known for its geothermal energy, creating the one-of-a-kind lagoons found throughout the country. Blue Lagoon is the most famous and absolutely worth the visit to experience the minerals and relaxation it offers. A close second is Sky Lagoon, with an infinity pool overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Take part in the 7-step ritual to experience relaxation and healing.
Icelandic horseback riding
Icelandic horses are truly one of a kind. Typical horses have three gaits they are able to perform, but Icelandic horses know five gaits. Experience the smoothness of the Icelandic tolt, so smooth you won’t even spill a drink while riding through the acres of lava fields.
Reykjavik city tour
The capital of Iceland is a vibrant, happy city full of food, drinks, shops, and experiences. Walk the rainbow road up to the uniquely designed Hallgrimskirkja Church while taking in the local shops and cuisine the city has to offer. A few highlights of ours were the Whale Museum, FlyOver Iceland, and a pastry from Braud and Co!
Places to eat & drink in Iceland
Friðheimar is a tomato farm in South Iceland, renowned for its fresh produce grown in greenhouses run by geothermal energy and beautiful Icelandic horses.
Friðheimar
Dining doesn’t get much more unique than this, where you can enjoy a meal surrounded by thousands of tomato plants growing inside a greenhouse powered completely by geothermal energy. While they are famous for their tomato soup, I can’t help but recommend the tomato ravioli. Pair it with a Bloody Mary or prosecco and strawberries to truly experience all this place has to offer. After your meal, step outside to the barn and meet a few Icelandic horses!
The Lemmy
A dive bar feel, but with Mexican cuisine and over 40 beers on tap, this restaurant allows you to head into the beer room and pour your own flight. Pick four beers, order some guacamole, and grab a blanket to cuddle up on the outdoor patio for an afternoon snack.
Sandholt Bakery
This family-run bakery has been around since 1920 and often has a line out the door. Stop in early for a cinnamon roll, buttery croissant, or sourdough loaf and experience pastries made daily, or drop by later for their soup of the day.
Dubliner Bar
This lively Irish pub features one of the longest happy hours I’ve ever seen from noon to 9 p.m. daily. Grab a drink, listen to some live music, talk with both locals and visitors while relaxing after walking around Reykjavik.
North Restaurant
If you find yourself up North, go to North! This restaurant is inspired by Iceland’s landscape and features fresh ingredients in the quaint coastal town of Akureyri. Experience a one-of-a-kind menu curated by founding chef Gunnar Karl Gíslasson and taste all Iceland has to offer.
Moss Restaurant
Located inside the famous Blue Lagoon, this Michelin Star restaurant features a seasonal tasting menu inspired by Iceland itself and curated by a native Icelander while giving you stunning views of the lagoon. Enhance your experience by stepping down into the wine cellar formed within a volcanic chamber of hardened lava.
Need to know
Iceland can be expensive, so keep that in mind, but in my opinion, it is worth every penny. The people are kind, the places are beautiful, and this country is so unique. Everyone should experience it at least once in their life.
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Mimi Mantia
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Iceland page.