October
1
2010
By Anton Lynch
Iceland has caused a lot of upset recently, with volcanic ash hindering half of the western world’s travels. Plus, the country more or less single-handedly created the global financial meltdown, didn’t they? Praise for this unique and quirky destination is well overdue.
Iceland really does have all you need for an intrepid time abroad. Volcanic black sand beaches, vertiginous coastal cliffs, psychotic puffins, whale-watching in the summer and the surreal northern lights in the winter. The island is a strange place—when driving around (which in itself is highly recommended, though be sure to rent a 4x4) it is rare to see a tree, and if one is spotted you are rewarded with a misshapen, windswept, bowing shrub, it's growth stunted by the harsh weather.
Iceland is king of adventure and activity, and is one of the only places where you can scuba-dive (or snorkel) between two tectonic plates: a wonderfully weird experience in crystal-clear water. Heli-skiing is another option, as well as cross-country skiing and husky-sledding, or even blo-karting (cycling with a sail) along one of the many empty beaches. Climbing, trekking and white water rafting are also a must, and Europe’s largest waterfall is located in the volcano and geyser-strewn interior.
‘Bizarre’, ‘surreal’ and ‘weird’ are words which crop up repeatedly when describing Iceland (see above) and the Blue Lagoon is no exception. Before you arrive, you can see the steam rising mysteriously in the distance (which, to me, looked disconcertingly like a power plant), and once you enter its inner sanctuary it is a tranquil and eerily beautiful place. The white waters and mist hide many of your fellow guests so you often feel like you are alone, though swimming headfirst into a Nordic blonde is half the fun. There are many treatments you can have here but I recommend just lounging in the waters, face covered with volcanic algae mask.
All this, and I have not even mentioned Reykjavík yet. A cool capital with amazing restaurants and some excellent hotels and bars… but I’ll save that for another day.
Anton Lynch is Trufflepig's newest trip planner—a South America expert who can help you get from Buenos Aires to Quito and everywhere in between. Get in touch by email or phone (+1 416 628 1272) to get started, and follow us on Facebook and Twitter for more of our favourite finds.