Post from 06/11/2010
Journey to the Centre of the Earth
Jules Verne‘s world-famous novel “Journey to the Centre of the Earth” is about a fantastic expedition to the Icelandic volcano Snaefellsjökull. Three people descend deep into the crater and find a cave which leads down to the the core of the earth. Indeed in rough Iceland one feels closer to the origin of all being than anywhere else. This country of spouting geysers, volcanoes, glaciers and waterfalls is in a constant act of creation. This was recently demonstrated by the latest eruption of the volcano Eyjafjallajökull which is located under a glacier with the same name.
On a vacation to Iceland nature always takes the centre stage. Every nature enthusiast can find something in Iceland whether the family who wants to share those amazing nature spectacles with their children, to bird watchers who can discover Látrabjard which is one of the largest bird rocks in the Westfjords and individualists who enjoy whale watching and mile long trekking tours!
Endless spaces
To get to know the country it is advisable to stay in the vicinity of the capital city Reykjavík. It is the perfect starting point to visit the country’s main attractions. With a hired car one can undertake day trips to the continental divide, the spectacular Strokkur geyser as well as to the Gulfoss waterfall. Generally we would advise you to hire a cross-country vehicle with four-wheel drive as the country only has 50 kilometres of motorway and mainly of the roads are not fully asphalted. Furthermore very often small streams cross the road and many routes go over glaciers.
Each season has its own charming atmosphere and the Fire Island holds an array of surprises for visitors. Because of the climatic conditions and the length of the days we would recommend you go to Iceland during the spring or summer time.
Each season has its own charming atmosphere and the Fire Island holds an array of surprises for visitors. Because of the climatic conditions and the length of the days we would recommend you go to Iceland during the spring or summer time.
Puffins
Blossoming spring
When thinking of Iceland one thinks of endless lush green grassland. Especially in springtime the rising temperatures provide that the island is covered by lush green. This period is particularly ideal for bird watching as Iceland is home to around 300 different species of birds and observation spots which are renowned across the globe. However outstanding is not the variety of species but rather the immense amount as well as beauty and rareness of many species. Particularly the buzz of millions of waterfowl is a very unique experience. Iceland with its numerous salmon and trout waters in untouched nature is a Mecca for fishermen. Due to the mild Gulf Stream even sea fishing in the ragged fjords in the northwest of Iceland is possible all year round.
After enthralling discoveries in fresh spring air a steaming bath in the “Blue Lagoon“ is perfect way to round off the day. The thermal spa surrounded by black fields of lava is absolutely unparalleled and offers a unique ecosystem. The 38 degrees warm and mineral-bearing light blue water is said to have healing powers. By the way many holiday houses in Iceland have a so-called hot pot. That is a large outdoor tub in which one can marvellously relax in. On atraveo it is possible to specifically search for holiday houses with whirlpools.
When thinking of Iceland one thinks of endless lush green grassland. Especially in springtime the rising temperatures provide that the island is covered by lush green. This period is particularly ideal for bird watching as Iceland is home to around 300 different species of birds and observation spots which are renowned across the globe. However outstanding is not the variety of species but rather the immense amount as well as beauty and rareness of many species. Particularly the buzz of millions of waterfowl is a very unique experience. Iceland with its numerous salmon and trout waters in untouched nature is a Mecca for fishermen. Due to the mild Gulf Stream even sea fishing in the ragged fjords in the northwest of Iceland is possible all year round.
After enthralling discoveries in fresh spring air a steaming bath in the “Blue Lagoon“ is perfect way to round off the day. The thermal spa surrounded by black fields of lava is absolutely unparalleled and offers a unique ecosystem. The 38 degrees warm and mineral-bearing light blue water is said to have healing powers. By the way many holiday houses in Iceland have a so-called hot pot. That is a large outdoor tub in which one can marvellously relax in. On atraveo it is possible to specifically search for holiday houses with whirlpools.
Icelandic horses
Lively summer
The peak tourist season in Iceland is between June and August. In those months tourists especially profit from the length of the days as it never really gets dark in the midsummer in Iceland. Between the 14th and 28th of June in the north of Iceland the sun doesn’t set. Due to the warm Gulf Stream the climate on Iceland is warmer than one would expect considering its northern location.
The summer is especially ideal for long trekking tours and other activities outdoors. The rugged landscape can be explored on a rattling quad on four wheels or more traditionally on horseback with Icelandic horses. It is said that no other sport fits Icelandic weather conditions better than riding. Whether summer heat or winter’s cold, whether rain, storm or snow – the Icelandic horse is resistant to wind and adverse weather. Furthermore the Icelandic horses have specific characteristics which also make them ideal for inexperienced riders to enjoy unforgettable rides. These attributes were preserved by thousands of years of isolation. The horses master five instead of three paces: next to walk, trot and gallop there also exists pass and tölt. The tölt is a very pleasant pace where the rider is virtually free from vibration. An Icelandic proverb says that one can only truly experience the country on horseback.
The peak tourist season in Iceland is between June and August. In those months tourists especially profit from the length of the days as it never really gets dark in the midsummer in Iceland. Between the 14th and 28th of June in the north of Iceland the sun doesn’t set. Due to the warm Gulf Stream the climate on Iceland is warmer than one would expect considering its northern location.
The summer is especially ideal for long trekking tours and other activities outdoors. The rugged landscape can be explored on a rattling quad on four wheels or more traditionally on horseback with Icelandic horses. It is said that no other sport fits Icelandic weather conditions better than riding. Whether summer heat or winter’s cold, whether rain, storm or snow – the Icelandic horse is resistant to wind and adverse weather. Furthermore the Icelandic horses have specific characteristics which also make them ideal for inexperienced riders to enjoy unforgettable rides. These attributes were preserved by thousands of years of isolation. The horses master five instead of three paces: next to walk, trot and gallop there also exists pass and tölt. The tölt is a very pleasant pace where the rider is virtually free from vibration. An Icelandic proverb says that one can only truly experience the country on horseback.
Geyser
Next to the natural wonders and the breathtaking landscape one should not miss out on the culinary delights. Typical Icelandic dishes are fish as well as lamb and mutton. Why not try preparing a tender lamb ragout or grilled salmon which you can catch yourself. Should you prefer to buy your fish you are able to get freshly caught fish in one of the many coastal villages from local fishermen.