Iceland is known as the “land of fire and ice”. On a recent holiday there, we opted for a self-guided 10-day exploration to delve deeper into the country at our own pace. News of a recent volcanic eruption and an airport staff strike greeted us upon arrival, but luckily, these events had minimal impact on our trip.
Our journey began with a soak in the famed Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa renowned for its milky turquoise waters. We were informed that rising sulphur dioxide levels from a nearby volcano might necessitate evacuation, but thankfully, it didn’t come to that. Once rejuvenated, we went to Reykjavik, Iceland’s vibrant capital.
There, we explored the iconic Hallgrimskirkja Church, the largest in the country. Its unique architecture drew inspiration from cooled lava formations and basalt rocks. Hallgrimskirka Church's unique architecture was inspired by cooled lava formations and basalt rocks.
The next day, we embarked on the Golden Circle, a must-do for any Iceland visitor. The Kerid Crater, a collapsed volcanic crater offering breathtaking views, was our first stop. We then witnessed the awe-inspiring Gullfoss waterfall, where powerful cascades plunged into a deep canyon.
The Geysir geothermal area, with its impressive Strokkur geyser erupting every few minutes, was another highlight. Venturing off the beaten path, we discovered Bruarfoss, a hidden gem known as Iceland’s “bluest” waterfall for its crystal-clear glacial water. Fed by the Bruara River, this.