Iceland is beautiful. There’s no doubt about that. On one hand you have a luxurious Blue Lagoon set amongst a rugged lava landscape and on the other you have floating glacier lakes with snow capped mountains as the backdrop. But, besides seeing these miracles of nature, the best thing you can do in Iceland is to rent a car and take your time driving the open country road.
No journey to Iceland is complete without having the freedom to explore the unexplored and having the ability to pull over and pet the Icelandic horses. So, that being said, here are my top 5 less touristy spots you shouldn’t miss out on!
1. Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
Think, slow motion music video, sheer cliffs covered in plush moss overlooking emerald green waters, Justin Bieber fearlessly jogging to the edge. Breathtaking. And even if you’re not a belieber (pffft you’re not kidding anyone) you definitely want to make a stop here.
2. Jökulsárlón Glacier River Lagoon
True to its name, Jökulsárlón is a magnificent river-lagoon hybrid that houses massive bobbing pieces of glacier. And if you’re lucky enough, you might catch a seal and its pup sunbathing on it’s surface.
3. Mývatn Mud Pots
You don’t need to go far or to have studied for 18 years to fulfil your dreams of one day becoming Chris Hadfield because there is no way I was still on Earth standing next to the Mývatn Mud Pots.
4. Laufás Turf House
Any turf homes will do, really, but there’s just something that screams iconic Iceland about them. They’re just so curiously amazing, anyone else? I think they’re spectacular. Sue me.
5. Hellnar to Arnarstapi Walk
Hellnar is an ancient fishing village with a cluster of old houses and buildings situated close to Arnarstapi on the westernmost part of the Snæfellsnes peninsula. Take the incredible 60 minute walk yourself and end with the cutest cup of tea and homemade waffles in a quaint little cafe overlooking the water. You will not be disappointed!
If you have any questions you can also find me on Instagram at @AlyshiaTurchyn! Definitely reach out, there’s nothing more I’d love than to help you plan your next stop in Iceland!
