Melissa was over in London for a visit, so what better way to celebrate, then with more travel. Iceland had been on the travel list for a few years, so the decision was made to finally explore it. The thing I love about our friendship is that no matter how much time (and distance) has kept us apart, we seem to just pick up where we left off, like she never left in the first place. I’m incredibly thankful to have many friendships like this.
Arriving into Reykjavik is amazing. It has the small town feel that I have come to love. It’s ‘quaintness’ is so beautiful. Wandering the streets and taking in the sights, sounds and smells made me feel like I was back in Tromso…the small colourful houses line the long narrow streets dotted with cars. Because Reykjavik is a small town it is very easy to navigate and walk around. All the main points of interest are within a few blocks of each other and its a short walk down to all the bars and restaurants.
The main tourist points (that people generally come to Iceland for) are outside Reykjavik itself. The Blue Lagoon, golden circle etc can be done quite easily due to the fact that Iceland itself is heavily effected by tourism. This results in a range of tour companies to choose from. We found that the bigger companies offered multiple options to cover anything you could possibly want to see. One thing that is a must if you are there, is some form of northern lights tour. The best times to see them are from mid-September through to April. Generally, December through February are the best months. Its darker and the lights are clearer.
We did the Golden circle tour as well and quickly discovered, that Iceland has a fast changing range of weather patterns. Beginning the tour in Reykjavik, the first stop is at Pingvellir. Known for sitting on a fault line, you can clearly see where continental drift has occurred over the years between the North American and Eurasian plates, creating cracks that traverse the region. Its amazing to see how far these stretch. The Great Geysir was the second stop on the tour and by the time we got there we got to experience driving rain and gale force winds whilst waiting for the geyser to erupt 30 metres into the air (it does so every few minutes). Needless to say, we were both completely frozen by the time we got back to the tour bus. They defiantly saved the best till last with the Gullfoss waterfall. It is nothing short of incredible…and we got to see it in snow. Its such a force of water which has to be seen (and heard) to fully comprehend its power.
Reykjavik itself has so many treasures to discover. The Hallgrimskirkja (modern cathedral) is a must. Simply walking in the giant front doors gives an appreciation of the open design. Quite different to the usual kind i’ve seen over Europe. If you want a 360 view of the city, get tickets in the gift shop for the lift and head to the top of the cathedrals’ clock tower. Its quite stunning to see the small houses below contrast against the backdrop of snow covered mountains. Another thing we stumbled upon was a local bakery (Braid & co). We smelt it before we saw it. Pretty sure they pump the cinnamon smell into the surrounding streets! All the things made there are Icelandic specialities. I can highly recommend the scrolls. You know the place is good when theres a line out the door. Also, if you’re looking for a great place to eat, you have got to go to svarta kaffid. They serve soup in cobb loaves of bread! I do realise this is a very simple concept, but it works so well. They have two soup options each day as well as a great selection of local beers to choose from. The perfect place to take refuge out of the cold Icelandic weather.
Our last night in Iceland was spent in the best way…relaxing the blue lagoon. With face masks and a swim up bar, we were in full relaxation mode. The lagoon is completely geothermal and has many spa options if you’re wanting to fully indulge. It has been set up really well and you could easily end up staying the whole day if you really wanted to. We headed there from Reykjavik in the early evening. Turns out it a really good time to go. Its not as busy and we got to watch as the sun set over a clear sky and the stars slowly began appear above. So beautiful.
Sending hugs & smiles,
Vanessa
