Destiny enchants with its exuberant nature and the spectacle of the northern lights
Iceland is on many travellers’ wish lists. Whether it’s for its mystical, exuberant nature or for the Northern Lights show. But its culture is also impressive. Even in extreme weather conditions, long winters and midnight sun, Icelanders seem to solve every problem by relaxing in the country’s more than 100 thermal pools.
Thingvellir National Park, the area of active geysers and Gullfoss, one of the most extraordinary waterfalls on the planet, are the highlights of this journey that ends in style among the streets, houses and promenades that start from the effervescent capital Reykjavik.
The route of the ‘Golden Circle’ and its natural beauties
The best way to get an overview of the country’s natural beauty is through the route called the ‘Golden Circle’. A path that part of the capital and includes impressive attractions. The first stop is Thingvellir National Park, of great historical and geological importance. They are green hectares formed by hills, canyons and rivers.
The first parliament was founded in this park of the worldas well as the first Christian church in the country. The park is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and today houses the country house of the Prime Minister of Iceland. In addition to the historical part, Thingvellir is also worth a visit for its geological curiosities.
The main attraction is Almannagjá, a canyon formed by the separation of the tectonic plates of North America and Eurasia, which continue to slowly separate. During the walk between the canyons it is possible to observe a beautiful waterfall, which becomes small compared to the gigantic proportions of the park.
A majestic waterfall in the heart of Iceland
The landscapes of this region vary widely. In summer, you can see the sun coloring Thingvallavatn lake. In winter the whole landscape is dressed in white. Snow also arrives at Gullfoss, the most famous waterfall in the country. This majestic waterfall dares to challenge Foz do Iguaçu and Victoria Falls in the ranking of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world.
Located just two hours from the capital, its waters flow through the canyon of the Hvítá River. Also known as Cascada Dourada, the two Gullfoss waterfalls add up to 32 meters in height and form a picture of nature in its purest state. After soaking up the spray and mist, your next stop is the Geysir geothermal area in the Haukadalur valley.
The Icelandic geyser show
Travelers and their cameras arrive every year hoping to witness an erupting geyser. But in Iceland you don’t have to be very lucky. Just stand around what looks like a pool of water and wait less than 10 minutes. A strong jet of boiling water flows from the Strokkur geyser, and its height, equivalent to a building of five floorsgenerates emotion from the audience.
In addition to the steam in the air and the colorful lakes, the valley is covered in lupinus, an undergrowth with small lilac flowers that reaches as far as the outskirts of the country’s capital, Reykjavik. The town is small and full of concrete houses covered with colored iron plates. This solid structure ensures that the houses stand up to the elements, which can be interpreted as a reflection of the people who live there.
Culture, architecture and urban life
Icelandic culture is shaped by a history of resilience. Due to its geographical position, the large volcanic island experiences long winters and summers of eternal sun, the so-called midnight sun. But those born in these lands seem not to be shaken by the difficulties. The capital Reykjavik is equipped with cozy cafes for the winter and plenty of bars for the summer.
These climate havens become extensions of the houses, where the residents take the opportunity to read a book, listen to a record, chat or admire small art galleries.
Ari Sigvadalson’s photography studio is one of them. On Skólavörðurholt Avenue, marked by a rainbow painted on the ground, Ari hangs photos of him on a clothesline by the window which attracts the attention of passers-by. they are portrayed Of your country made on short inland trips.
Following the path of the photographer, we arrive at the Lutheran church Hallgrímskirkja, a postcard of the city. Its particular architecture was inspired by the country’s glaciers, volcanic formations and mountains.
Whale Watching in Reykjavik Bay
The gaze follows the main tower for 74 meters, up to the bell and its observatory. From above, it is possible to see the whole city as far as the sea and imagine what life is like for those who pass through the port.
The statue of the Traveler of the Sun, or Sólfar, is located in Faxaflói Bay. An iron sculpture in the shape of a boat that floats in the air. The figure created by Jóngunnar Árnason represents the freedom and hope of the Icelandic people. From this same port, the tours start by boat for whale watching, one of the great attractions of the capital.
During the summer, four main species can be observed in Reykjavík Bay: the majestic humpback whale, minke whale, harbor porpoise and white-beaked dolphin. This coastal region serves as a feeding point for them and the tour is coordinated by marine biologists who know how to observe without affecting the animals’ routine.
Iceland’s thermal pools are a relaxing retreat
After the ride we landed again, but not for long. Our itinerary ends inside the outdoor thermal water pools, which are so famous in the country. There are more than a hundred options, including the Blue Lagoon, the hidden Secret Lagoon and the newest, Sky Lagoon.
the waters in this landscape volcano are rich in minerals and can reach 40 degrees. Spending the afternoons in water up to your neck is part of the country’s culture, and these spas have become meeting points, like our bars or parks.
By Raquel Cintra Pryzant – Qual Viagem Magazine
Travel journalist with more than six years of experience in cross-platform content creation, audiovisual production and collaborator coordination. Graduated in São Paulo with masters in Barcelona. He I share the world in international publications with my Brazilian roots as a distinguishing feature. She is also the founder of the Sola no mundo project, which has been broadcasting reports and documentaries on Latin American destinations and culture since 2017.
Source: Terra
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
