Gatklettur rock is a sea arch sculpted by crashing of the waves. — Photos: DARSHAN NAMBBIAR and KRISHNAVENI JAYARAJ
Iceland is known as the “land of fire and ice”. On a recent holiday there, we opted for a self-guided 10-day exploration to delve deeper into the country at our own pace.
News of a recent volcanic eruption and an airport staff strike greeted us upon arrival, but luckily, these events had minimal impact on our trip.
Our journey began with a soak in the famed Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa renowned for its milky turquoise waters. We were informed that rising sulphur dioxide levels from a nearby volcano might necessitate evacuation, but thankfully, it didn’t come to that. Once rejuvenated, we went to Reykjavik, Iceland’s vibrant capital. There, we explored the iconic Hallgrimskirkja Church, the largest in the country. Its unique architecture drew inspiration from cooled lava formations and basalt rocks.
Hallgrimskirka Church's unique architecture was inspired by cooled lava formations and basalt rocks.
The next day, we embarked on the Golden Circle, a must-do for any Iceland visitor. The Kerid Crater, a collapsed volcanic crater offering breathtaking views, was our first stop. We then witnessed the awe-inspiring Gullfoss waterfall, where powerful cascades plunged into a deep canyon. The Geysir geothermal area, with its impressive Strokkur geyser erupting every few minutes, was another highlight.
Venturing off the beaten path, we discovered Bruarfoss, a hidden gem known as Iceland’s “bluest” waterfall for its crystal-clear glacial water. Fed by the Bruara River, this glacial meltwater from Langjokull creates Bruarfoss’s stunning sky-blue colour.
Thingvellir National Park, a Unesco World Heritage Site, was our next stop. Here, we stood at the fascinating rift valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates diverge.
Bruarfoss is known as Iceland's 'bluest' waterfall.
We also explored the Almannagja gorge, a dramatic canyon featured in the popular TV series Game Of Thrones.
Historically significant as the original site of Albingi, the Icelandic parliament founded in 930 AD, Pingvellir continues to hold a special place even though the parliament now resides in Reykjavik.
Our journey continued westward, where we checked into a cosy guesthouse near Snaefellsjokull National Park. This dramatic region, known as “Iceland in miniature” for its diverse landscapes, captivated us.
Rauofeldsgja, a natural arch formed by volcanic eruptions, was a sight to behold, too.
Meanwhile, standing proudly along the Icelandic coast, Gatklettur rock is a sea arch sculpted by the relentless power of the ocean.
Kirkjufellsfoss, a picturesque waterfall, cascaded down into the sea with the iconic Kirkju-fell mountain as a backdrop. The majestic Snaefellsjokull glacier volcano dominated the horizon, adding a touch of mystique to the scenery.
The south coast of Iceland offered a different kind of beauty. Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, two powerful waterfalls cascading down cliffs, were truly awe-inspiring. We ventured behind the cascading curtain of Gljufrabui, a hidden waterfall tucked away in a narrow crevice, getting thoroughly drenched in the process.
The Reynisfjara black sand beach, with its dramatic basalt columns and powerful waves crashing onto the shore, was an unforgettable sight. The extremely strong waves during our visit highlighted the dangers of a sneaker wave.
The highlight of our trip was a hike on the Solheimajokull glacier. We explored the crevasses and ice formations of this retreating glacier, a stark reminder of the impact of climate change. It was our first experience glacier hiking, complete with crampons on our shoes. The glacier’s beauty was undeniable, but the sight of its retreat was a sobering reminder of environmental challenges.
The travellers at Gljufrabui waterfall.
We then drove four hours south to the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. Its glistening icebergs bobbed in the turquoise water, a sight of serene beauty. Nearby, the Diamond Beach offered a unique spectacle as chunks of ice, polished smooth by the waves, glittered like diamonds on the black sand, creating a stark contrast to the scenery.
We were fortunate that the volcanic eruption and airport strike did not significantly disrupt our trip. The strike thankfully resolved before our departure, allowing us to return home safely.
Throughout our journey, we were struck by the warmth and hospitality of the Icelandic people. We had no problems communicating with the locals in English; we must admit, however, that Icelandic food prices were a shock. A simple chicken meal could cost around RM300!
Iceland is a true land of contrasts, where fire and ice collide in a breathtaking display of nature’s power. Our adventure was filled with stunning landscapes, captivating history, and unforgettable experiences. It is a destination that will forever hold a special place in our memories.
The views expressed are entirely the reader’s own.
