Why Should You Explore Iceland On a Walking Holiday?
For those of you who like your walking holidays to be nothing short of extraordinary, Iceland is the place to be. This island country is a true walking wonderland, thanks to its otherworldly landscapes, powerful waterfalls, and striking glaciers. It’s a lot different from other Scandinavian countries like Norway, Denmark, or Sweden.
Let’s put it this way: Iceland offers a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else. The land of fire and ice is made for those who want to immerse themselves in nature, taking in jaw-dropping views at every turn.
This country’s dramatic terrain is perfect for adventurers who are truly looking to connect with the elements. It’s a country where volcanoes rumble, glaciers glisten, and waterfalls cascade down cliffs, which will create an unparalleled atmosphere for your next walking holiday.
If you’re not quite convinced that Iceland is the place to go for your walking holiday, read on!
These Are The Best Places To Check Out On a Walking Holiday in Iceland
Here are the top destinations in Iceland for a walking holiday:
Glacial & Volcanic Adventures
For those of you who like to walk through landscapes shaped by fire and ice, Iceland’s glaciers and volcanic regions are a dream come true.
Vatnajökull Glacier
For the ultimate glacial experience, Vatnajökull, which happens to be Europe’s largest glacier, offers unforgettable hiking opportunities. You can walk across ice caves, explore towering ice formations, and even hike to the glacier’s peak. The landscape here is incredibly diverse, with volcanic craters, ice-covered peaks, and black sands that come together in one location.
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Hekla Volcano
For those of you who love a good challenge, hiking up Hekla, one of Iceland’s most active volcanoes, will not disappoint. Known as the “Gateway to Hell” in medieval times due to its frequent eruptions, Hekla offers a thrilling hike up its craggy slopes. The view from the top gives you a 360-degree panorama of the surrounding area, including other volcanoes and vast, barren landscapes. It’s a hike that’s as adventurous as it is awe-inspiring, perfect for those who want to walk on the edge of nature’s power.
Waterfalls & River Trails
If you’re someone who likes to walk along the sound of rushing water and take in the beauty of Iceland’s iconic waterfalls, then you’re in for a treat.
Gullfoss Waterfall Trail
Part of the famous Golden Circle, the trail to Gullfoss Waterfall is a must for anyone visiting Iceland. The path takes you through lush landscapes, past geothermal springs, and along the powerful Hvítá river before you’ll come to the waterfall itself. The views of the waterfall from different vantage points are absolutely breathtaking. All in all, this easy-to-access hike really packs a punch in terms of natural beauty.
Skógafoss Waterfall Trail
If you like to be surrounded by towering waterfalls, the Skógafoss Waterfall trail is a perfect choice. This iconic waterfall is one of Iceland’s largest and most impressive, and it drops over 60 meters/197 feet. The walk along the Skógá River takes you past smaller waterfalls and through lush green landscapes, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even climb the staircase that leads to the top of the waterfall for an even more dramatic view. The mist from the falls often creates rainbows, which should add an extra layer of natural magic to the experience.
Coastal & Beach Walks
For those of you who prefer a more relaxed walk by the sea, Iceland’s coastal trails are perfect for taking in the fresh ocean air and also while exploring unique black sand beaches and stunning cliffs alongside the coast.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
One of Iceland’s most famous beaches, Reynisfjara is known for its striking black sands and massive basalt sea stacks. The coastal trail here takes you along the beach, where you can admire the dramatic cliffs and powerful waves crashing against the shore. Keep an eye out for puffins and other seabirds, as this area is a popular nesting spot. It’s a peaceful walk overall and a great place to experience nature in all its glory.
Snæfellsjökull National Park
Located on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Snæfellsjökull National Park offers a stunning variety of coastal trails with views of the iconic Snæfellsjökull Glacier. This park is home to volcanic craters, dramatic cliffs, and a rugged coastline that provides ample opportunities for exploration. For those of you who like your hikes with a bit of history and mystery, you’ll think it’s neat to hear that this park also actually inspired Jules Verne’s famous novel Journey to the Center of the Earth. Who knows…maybe you’ll find the entrance to the center of the Earth when you visit!
What Can You Expect During a Walking Holiday in Iceland?
Here’s what you can really expect from a fun walking holiday in Iceland:
Adventures Beyond Walking
For those of you who like to spice up your walking holiday with a few more thrilling activities, Iceland is the perfect place to do just that. After all, Iceland isn’t just about hiking. It’s also a country that comes full of adventures that will get your heart racing.
For those who like to take their adventure to the next level, how about diving into one of Iceland’s most unique experiences like snorkeling in the Silfra Fissure? This crack between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates offers some of the clearest water in the world. It’s an experience unlike any other, and you’ll literally be floating between two continents! That’s right…Iceland is technically a part of both North America and Europe when it comes to geology.
If snorkeling isn’t your thing, there’s always ice climbing on a glacier. Imagine yourself scaling frozen waterfalls or the icy surface of a glacier with nothing but crampons and an ice pick. It’s a true bucket-list activity for those who love a good thrill.
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And if you’re someone who likes to unwind after a day of action, Iceland’s geothermal hot springs are a must. You can relax in the famous Blue Lagoon, where the warm and mineral-rich waters will soothe your muscles after a long day of hiking. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience, you should try the natural hot springs at Reykjadalur Valley.
The Food and Drink Experience
If you’ve been hiking around the volcanic terrain or wandering the coastal trails, you’ll probably be craving a good meal. The country’s culinary scene is a perfect reflection of its rugged landscapes, and the dishes here are hearty, unique, and influenced by the raw ingredients that are found in its natural surroundings.
Iceland’s seafood in particular is a must-try, especially the fresh fish, mussels, and Arctic char. For those of you who like to dive into something a little more unusual, you should try hákarl, which is fermented shark and is a traditional Icelandic dish that’s definitely an acquired taste but a fun (and brave) way to immerse yourself in local food culture. You should pair it with a glass of Icelandic beer or a shot of Brennivín, which is the country’s signature spirit often referred to as “Black Death.” It’s strong, it’s bold, and it’ll warm you up after a chilly day on the trails.
For a lighter and more everyday experience, Icelandic dairy is a treat in itself. Don’t leave without trying skyr, which is a thick and yogurt-like dairy product that’s been a staple of Icelandic diets for centuries. It’s often served with berries or honey, which makes for a perfect breakfast or snack.
And if you’re wandering through Reykjavik or one of the charming villages, be sure to stop by a local bakery and try kleina, which is a fried dough pastry that’s a sweet (and indulgent delight).
Fun Accommodations
For those of you who like your accommodations as unique as your adventure, Iceland offers plenty of fun and quirky places to stay that will make your walking holiday even more memorable.
If you’re trekking through the wild landscapes and need a place to rest your legs, staying in a traditional Icelandic cabin is a must do. These small, often remote cottages provide the perfect getaway after a long hike, and they offer a chance to disconnect and relax in nature. Picture yourself enjoying a hot cup of coffee while gazing out over a dramatic landscape of glaciers or volcanic craters. Many of these cabins are tucked away in the countryside, and so they offer total peace and quiet, which will allow you to truly recharge before you get back on the trails again.
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For those of you who like a bit more luxury mixed with nature, Iceland’s high-end boutique hotels will make you feel like royalty. Many of these places offer floor-to-ceiling windows with spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes. Think glaciers, volcanoes, or even the Northern Lights if you’re lucky. And if you’re really looking for a unique experience, there are also options like staying in a luxurious ice hotel or in a design-focused eco-lodge.
Where to Next?
- Ultimate Guides – your gateway to hiking across Europe
- Hikes & Trails – curated lists of the best hikes and local gems
- Walking Holidays – extended journeys for when a single day just isn’t enough
- General Blog – all the extras: gear reviews, planning tips, and personal stories
Conclusion
Iceland is the ultimate destination for those of you who crave adventure, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable experiences. From hiking across glaciers and volcanic craters to relaxing in geothermal hot springs, there are few parts of this island that don’t offer something extraordinary.
Are you ready to explore the island of ice and fire?
