ENCHANTING ICELAND

A trip to Iceland need not freeze your bank balance. Niamh MacSweeney reports.

At this time of the year we may be trying to stay out of the cold, thinking what could be better than a Mediterranean sun holiday. Well Iceland actually, not just because of the magical landscape and amazing forces of nature, but because there is a huge sense of spirit to the place and you will never tire of the fascinating Icelandic people.

A volcanic island in the North Atlantic, Iceland is a picture paradise and a stunning example of the powers of mother-nature. Geological occurrences have sculpted this amazing landscape and it is the people’s resourcefulness and adaptation in the face of a varied and often turbulent environment that is most commendable.

Fire And Ice

The most striking thing about Iceland is its environment and expansive landscape. Cascading waterfalls, volcanic lava fields, hot springs and rivers of glacial ice fuse to make this a destination with something for everybody. This fascinating land of fire and ice offers an extraordinary voyage of discovery where many of the wonders of the world can be experienced.

The marvels of the North Atlantic are closer then you might think and a weekend break to Reykjavik is fast becoming a hot destination on the itinerary of trendsetters, families and backpackers alike. Not only the worlds most northern capital it also the newest having only established itself in the late 19th century. Vikings established the first permanent settlement in 874 but it was not until 1918 that Reykjavik became the capital.

New And Old

Home to over one third of the population, Reykjavik offers all the pleasures of a modern European city. International influences flourish along side old Icelandic traditions in this enchanting city. The white washed wooden houses blend together with the more brightly painted ones, which all sit placidly below the majestic glacier mountain range that dominates the horizon.

Volcanic Valleys

Only a short distance from the city, Iceland’s most beautiful locations can be accessed and with so many excursions to choose from there really is something for everybody. The Golden Circle Tour is really worthwhile as you get to experience the immense diversity of Iceland. to experience the immense diversity of Iceland. This one day tour takes in a broad cross section of the geology and history of th e country. Visiting the area where the original Viking settlers held their annual parliamentary assembly this sense of history and culture is reinforced.

The half day Super Jeep Safari is an exciting off-road experience that takes in many wonderful sights. Travelling through valleys, volcanoes and lava fields to the geothermal power plants and hot springs, I’m reminded of failed geography lessons in school and yet in Iceland it suddenly all makes sense. Iceland it suddenly all makes sense.

Magnificent Glaciers

Iceland has some of the most active volcanoes in the world. On average there is an eruption every five years from the 200 volcanoes and although frequent, they are rarely dangerous. It is the geothermal activity that is perhaps the most fascinating aspect of the landscape of the island. Over the centuries Iceland’s ecosystem has gone through dramatic change. As we drive through the strikingly rugged Þingvellir National Park, Iceland’s geological phenomena becomes strikingly apparent. Massive craters and cracks in the earth are clearly visible and dotted everywhere are multi-coloured lava fields and hot springs.

We are shown the Great Atlantic Rift and the tour guide informs us that Iceland is in fact getting bigger, as the rift slowly splits the country in two. Mt Hekla, renowned among Catholics as the abode of the dammed is one of Iceland’s most active volcanoes. The stunningly colourful and diverse landscape that surrounds her creates endless picturesque views of the magnificent glaciers.

A world famous geothermal field, Geysir is an amazing place and a must see on any visitors itinerary. Belching sulphurous mud pots, hissing steam vents and hot and cold springs create exciting displays for captivated spectators. Gullfos or ‘the golden waterfall’ is Iceland’s most famous natural wonder of the world. The white glacial water cascades into a narrow canyon which is 70 metres deep and 2.5 kilometres long. It is breathtaking to watch the queen of waterfalls tumble violently into the deep meandering gorge. As the sun fiercely competes with the waterfalls vast spray, rainbows try to break through various cracks in the canyon.

Never far from traditional culture and history, we drive through the Reykjanes peninsula. A region characterised by rough and mossy lava fields this place is apparently legendary home to the ‘hidden people’. Although no elves or trolls were spotted, the Icelandic people talk so fondly and enthusiastically about traditional folklore that you might start to believe them.

Relaxing Geothermal Pools

When you tire of glacier adventures there is no better way to unwind than in one of the geothermal swimming pools. Reykjavik has its hot water piped in from nearby geothermal springs and while it may seem a little daunting to swim outdoors in freezing temperatures it is well worth the benefits. Not only does the hot water make it a relaxing place to unwind, it is also a great place to meet the friendly locals.

No visit to Iceland would be complete without a visit to the Blue Lagoon. This high temperature geothermal field is filled with therapeutic thermal water rich in minerals and silica clay. The water and clay that fills the lava lagoon is reputed to have healing effects on skin aliments. Lounging in the warm silky water of the lagoon is the perfect way to end a holiday in Iceland.

Jökulsárlón	An aerial view of Reykjavík	The Blue Lagoon