Somewhere Wonderful in Iceland is Waiting

Let’s start with the obvious. A normal length holiday in Iceland means leaving out countless spots of natural beauty that would be on top of your bucket list in any other country. So, while it’s always worth checking out what fjords, geysers and waterfalls are in the area you’re staying in, the simplest way of getting a really good grasp of this country’s amazing land is to take a Golden Circle tour. The tour covers three of the nation’s most cherished natural landmarks: Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss waterfall. It’s a full day’s worth of exploring but there are many guided tours to choose from, most of which depart from Reykjavik, and it’s a truly spectacular insight into the diversity of Icelandic geography.

Now let’s try something a little different. The Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s other famous attraction – and with good reason. The mineral-rich warm waters are irresistible, it’s conveniently placed in the island’s more accessible southwest and the high-tech spa built here is mightily tempting. However, it gets extremely busy and for a place so tranquil, it feels strange to be surrounded by so many people. This is where the case for Northern Iceland comes in. The waters at Mývatn Nature Baths are pretty much identical and arguably even richer in minerals yet are much, much quieter. While it is a must-visit for those in the north, it isn’t totally out of the question for those in the southwest. A trip here from Reykjavik would be a full day’s round journey but, by car, would also happen to be one of the best road trips in the world, along the country’s famously scenic Ring Road.

Nobody books Iceland for the beaches but seeing this stretch of sand in the northwest is worth the flight alone. That’s because this is no ordinary beach. Changing colour throughout the day, the sand is naturally a striking reddish colour, which contrasts beautifully with the black cliffs and deep blue waters. When the sun shines, the sand glimmers as if full of diamonds, while rainfall can make it turn white or even black. Learn more about this extraordinary natural wonder by reading our guide to Rauðasandur, which includes tips on how to get there and the facilities available upon arrival.

Frost & Fire is only around 30 minutes from Reykjavik but it feels a million miles away from city life. Nestled in geothermal foothills on the banks of the Varmá river, and near the village of Hveragerði, this is a truly unique escape in one of Iceland’s richest geothermal regions, making it perfect for swimming and soaking in the nearby hot springs and pools. Watch plumes of steam rise from the ground from the comfort of your room, many of which offer views of the river and Mount Reykjafall in the distance. There is an excellent restaurant on-site and outdoor spa facilities are free for guests to use.

The Blue Lagoon is arguably the country’s most popular attraction, so why not give yourself unlimited access to the incredible Retreat Spa, the Blue Lagoon itself and the Blue Lagoon Ritual. While you also have access to the Retreat Lagoon, a more secluded space flowing from the very same water, which juts through lava canyons and hidden coves. The lagoon circles the hotel like a moat, so you can enjoy views of the milky blue waters and extraordinary surrounding landscape from the minimalist rooms or multiple top-notch restaurants. There are also steam caves, lava springs, private saunas and more. This really is a spa retreat like no other.

Most people tend to stick to Reykjavik and the surrounding areas in the southwest, but there’s no reason not to venture further afield, particularly when somewhere like Siglo Hotel is waiting for you in the northern town of Siglufjord. It was once the herring capital of the world and what remains is a delightfully Icelandic fishing town with a stunning mountainous backdrop. The hotel has three excellent restaurants, outdoor spas and a sauna, while rooms are classically designed with the kind of views you could only find in Iceland.

Don’t let the sleek design of this central Reykjavik restaurant fool you, this place is all about natural ingredients cooked traditionally. All of the produce is acquired directly from local farmers, while fire, smoke, wood and coal all play their part in the cooking process. There are veggie options available but, unsurprisingly, this place specialises in quality meat and fish. The restaurant recommends group meals – you can have a sharer three-course meal, or try the group tasting menu – but we won’t blame you if you want to keep the succulent steak, or catch of the day, all to yourself.

Some of Iceland’s more traditional dishes can be challenging to foreign palettes. At family restaurant Matur og Drykkur – named after an old Icelandic cookbook and set in a former salt fish factory overlooking the harbour – chefs take traditional recipes and give them a subtle contemporary twist. Try the cod’s head for a slightly scary but very delicious plate of food, or go for the six-course seasonal tasting menu for a comprehensive Icelandic dining experience.

Good food in Iceland isn’t confined to the capital. On the eastern side of the island, in the tiny fishing village of Djúpivogur – population 450 – is this hotel and restaurant dating back to 1904. A window table offers the most peaceful view of a quaint harbour occupied by colourful little boats. The food, meanwhile, is a seafood lover’s dream. You can’t go wrong with the catch of the day, but we also recommend the mussels, grilled lobster tails with garlic butter and, for those wanting a meaty alternative, the roast lamb fillet with fragrant thyme sauce is a winner.