Iceland has been deemed a must-visit destination by leading travel magazines, seasoned travel experts, and countless travel enthusiasts.
It's no surprise given its stunning natural beauty and unique attractions. Here are five must-see destinations in Iceland that are sure to leave you awe-inspired:
1. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a place where visitors can experience the breathtaking beauty of Iceland's glaciers, black sand beaches, and other unique features. This location has been used as a filming location for many popular movies, highlighting its charm and allure. Unfortunately, Iceland's glaciers are melting due to global warming and will eventually disappear, including Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Therefore, if you want to witness the magnificence of this glacier lake, act quickly before it's too late.
Iceland's weather and sunlight vary throughout the year, making Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon's scenery different and appealing depending on the season. It is highly recommended to visit twice, once in summer to take a boat ride and walk amongst the giant icebergs and again in winter to witness the Northern Lights dancing on the glacier lake and explore the Blue Ice Cave, another fantastic ice wonder of the Vatna Glacier.
2. Diamond Ice Beach
Located near the mouth of the sea, the black sand beach is adorned with ice blocks washed back by the waves of the Atlantic Ocean. The largest of these blocks is taller than a person. Polished by the waves, these ice blocks of varying sizes become smooth yet angular, resembling crystal-clear diamonds. When the sun shines, the diamond-like light shines out again, and the contrast between the beach's darkness and the transparency of the ice creates a fantastical feeling reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland.
3. Reynisfjara
Reynisfjara is one of the world's ten most beautiful beaches, but it's not your typical sunny beach with clear water and ice-cold drinks. Instead, the wind and waves, strange rocks, and black sand create an apocalyptic beauty that stands out from the traditional beach scene.
4. Reynisdrangar
Reynisfjara's towering wall of columnar basaltic volcanic rock, Reynisfjall, creates a stunning backdrop. Not far from the sea, the bizarre black rock group Reynisdrangar stands, which, according to Icelandic legend, was solidified into stone by the sun's rays. They have stood on the sea ever since, constantly being washed by the waves, creating the awe-inspiring scenery we see today.
5. Dyrhólaey
The Dyrhólaey headland is another remarkable attraction in Iceland, resulting from volcanic activity. A massive column of black lava that extends 120 meters into the sea resembles an archway or an arch bridge from a distance. You can stand on the peninsula and admire the stunning views of the Mýrdalsjökull ice field and the southern coastline of Iceland. Dyrhólaey is also a popular congregating spot for the unofficial national bird of Iceland, the puffin, and you can feel the vibrancy of Iceland's south coast here.
Iceland is a must-visit destination, and these five locations will give you a taste of its natural beauty and unique attractions. Make sure to plan a visit soon before these treasures are lost to climate change.
