I decided I wanted to see the country in her natural glory–I went to Iceland in Winter.
In recent years Iceland has become the ‘hot’ new vacation destination. I decided I wanted to see the country in her natural glory–I went to Iceland in Winter.
Taking a direct Icelandair flight from Toronto in February, I immediately met an interesting niche of travelers when I landed in Reykjavik…the layover tourist. Those who are on their way to or from the U.K. or Europe and are lured by a description of a mini vacation in and around Iceland’s ‘Golden Triangle’.
The Golden Triangle generally extends from Reykjavik and heads south-east, creating an approximate 300 kilometer loop. Bus tours are a popular option, hitting all the ‘hot spots’ such as the Blue Lagoon and Gullfoss waterfall.
This wasn’t how I wanted to explore Iceland…the island was my destination, not a stopover. I intended to take the time to see more of it and meet more of the people who call it home.
Before leaving Canada I researched options to see Iceland. I learned the country is still not a popular destination in the winter months (with the exception of the aforementioned Golden Triangle). I also learned Iceland is the most sparsely populated country in Europe and two-thirds of the country’s inhabitants live in and around Reykjavik, leaving the remainder of the island pretty remote. Finally, I discovered there is one main road that encircles the island–Ring Road–which is kept open year round while many of the interior roads are not passable or even open in the Winter.
Armed with this information I decided to work with Nordic Visitor tour company, one of the many in Iceland, and considered the options of self-drive or guided group (small, large, or private). Self-driving appealed to my independent adventurous side!
With the self-drive option, Nordic Visitor mapped out my route and, based on preferences I provided to them, pre-arranged my accommodations for each stop. This is critical as many B&B’s, small hotels, etc are not open in Winter. They prepared a comprehensive but detailed package which was mailed to me. Along with it was a wealth of additional information ranging from sight-seeing suggestions, interesting local facts along my route, and tips on winter driving.
Arriving in Reykjavik, I had timed my vacation to give me a couple of days to explore the city, which I did on foot. It’s not that big. Geothermic heating is throughout the island, supplying almost all of the homes and, interestingly, keeping the roads and sidewalks of the city clear of ice!
I’m not a shopper nor a ‘foodie’ however I enjoyed seeing some of the unique architecture, fascinating sights and interesting street art in the city.
I was happy in my modest–very clean and comfortable– hostel. Located down the street from the stunning Hallgrimskirkja Church, I learned the hostel is owned by Hreinn Hreinsson and his wife Olga. Hreinn was the illustrator for the very successful cookbook “Delicious Iceland” by Chef Snaer Volundarson.
After exploring the city for a couple of days it was time to start my real adventure…traveling on the Ring Road around the island!
Along with the amazing snow conditions was the extraordinary wind! At one point, up in the mountains, I had pulled over to take a picture of the view and was unable to open my door against the wind!
With the majority of the island’s population in and around Reykjavik, it wasn’t unusual for me to drive for an hour or two without seeing another vehicle or a house off in the distance.
I thoroughly enjoyed my accommodations arranged by Nordic Visitor. A small-town modest bungalow owned by a retired teacher with his King Charles spaniel named Zorro, a bustling family horse farm, a beautiful property with stunning views owned–appropriately, I thought–by Icelandic landscape photographer Haukur Snorrason, and more. All were welcoming, clean, served delicious home-prepared authentic meals and friendly conversation.
Since it was an adventure though, it wasn’t all driving and enjoying the guesthouses!
I was in Iceland for Valentine’s Day…the perfect opportunity for a trip to the spa!
Oh, did I mention? I didn’t only travel by car!
On another day I was about 40 meters underground in a lava cave expedition with a guide named…Thor, of course!
Although parts of the trip may not have been for the faint of heart, for me they make some of the best stories!
But the scenery! Yes, I loved the adventures, the friendships, the new experiences. Even without all of that though…the scenery.
As with any vacation, there’s always more than can be told–or seen–in one sitting. I loved my Winter vacation in Iceland and I hope you liked this small peek. If you are still intrigued, you can see more pictures from my visit. Enjoy!
– Marilyn