Iceland – 3 days

August 3 – August 5

Iceland has always been on our bucket list and is one of those places that needs at least 2 visits, one in winter for the northern lights and the other in summer for hiking. This trip is neither of them. Its just an extended stopover at Reykjavik on the way to Norway (the first destination). These couple of days are just to help ease out the jet lag a bit while we get a glimpse of the beautiful country. We planned on exploring the city of Reykjavik and drive on the popular golden circle, visiting a few spots on the route. We stayed at Kópavogur.

Observations/Tips

  • It is cold even in the summer due to the winds. The temperature was in the 60’s probably but the winds made it feel way lower. Better to always carry a good jacket. Also be mindful while opening the car door as the wind can throw the door open.
  • The popular tourist spots are really crowded but if you drive just a little bit away from these you can enjoy the untouched beauty the island has to offer, in solitude.
  • Lot of the churches in Iceland (at least the ones around Reykjavik) seem to have a unique exterior and have an amazing backdrop.
  • In August, we got dusk/dawn for about 4 hours before the sun was back up. I don’t think it was ever pitch dark outside
  • They have the cutest sheep.

Glowing in the morning sun, this large sheet of ice is Greenland, as it appears from the flight.

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Reykjavik translated as “bay of smoke” stands true to its name with smoke spewing out of earth, all over the island.

Icelands offers a vast rugged landscape, most of it still pristine and untouched.

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The Hallgrimskirkja (church of Hallgrímur), exterior of this church is built to resemble the volcanic formations found in Iceland.

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The church organ was pretty impressive too.

Kerið Lake, with its blue waters, is formed on the crater of a volcano. It falls on the golden route.

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The Friðheimar tomato farm is a greenhouse that grows tomatoes year round. Visitors can buy a bowl of tomato soup made fresh from their farm tomatoes. I had read good reviews about the tomato soup and was looking forward to tasting it, however it was a bit sweet for my liking.

Gullfoss waterfall is one of the most beautiful (and most crowded) sights on the golden circle. There is a short trail that will take you to the top of the waterfall. The mist from the waterfall almost made me think it was the rain.

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Grótta Island Lighthouse (or Lightbulb?!)

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An absolute treat to watch

View from the accommodation

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Some Observations/Tips

  • It is cold even in the summer due to the winds. The temperature was in the 60’s probably but the winds made it feel way lower. Better to always carry a good jacket. Also be mindful while opening the car door as the wind can throw the door open.
  • The popular tourist spots are really crowded but if you drive just a little bit away from these you can enjoy the untouched beauty the island has to offer, in solitude.
  • Lot of the churches in Iceland (at least the ones around Reykjavik) seem to have a unique exterior and have an amazing backdrop.
  • In August, we got dusk/dawn for about 4 hours before the sun was back up. I don’t think it was ever pitch dark outside
  • They have the cutest sheep.