4 Reasons Everyone Should Visit Iceland
At Least Once

What makes Iceland a unique destination?

Iceland is an amazing country. Not only is it overflowing with natural beauty and landscapes that will take your breath away, but this is the country that gave the world Björk and, before her, the Icelandic Sagas, which remain amongst the most awe-inspiring prose that humans have ever produced.

Everyone in Iceland lives on the edge - geographically that is - due to the country’s harsh climate and landscape. It is this landscape that has necessitated cooperation amongst the people living there over the centuries. As a result, Icelandic culture is a welcoming one and the people of Iceland are renowned for their charm and hospitality.

Behind its somewhat cold and detached look, Iceland hides its charm and hospitality, and some of the most unique holiday attractions. (Photo: Pexels)

Below are just some of the best reasons to visit Iceland, no matter who you are or what you like doing.

See the Northern Lights

Aurora Borealis, more commonly known as the Northern Lights, is a natural phenomenon of unparalleled beauty. Anyone who has been lucky enough to witness the Northern Lights first hand can attest to the fact that it is an almost transcendental experience. Richard Dawkins himself could not help but stand mystified at the beauty of this natural light show in the sky.

There are a number of campsites that you can see the Northern Lights from at the right time of year. Just make sure that you include a camera on your Iceland packing list so that you can capture the memory forever.

Go to Elf School

Just over a third of Icelanders believe in elves or huldufólk (hidden folk), as they are known in local legends. This is a belief that many Icelanders take seriously and it is deeply ingrained in the local culture. Icelandic families sometimes construct little wooden huts in the garden for elves in much the same way that Europeans leave out mince pies and brandy for Santa. In Reykjavik, there is even an elf school you can go to in order to learn about the different types of elves, trolls, fairies, and gnomes that are believed to exist on Iceland.

Visit the Harpa

In addition to the numerous examples of outstanding natural beauty, Icelanders have created some pretty impressive structures themselves. The Harpa is one of the most striking examples of this. A grand conference hall and conference center located in Reykjavic Harbor, the changing colors of the Harpa facade are reflected in the deep blue ocean. You can take in a show of the Iceland Symphony Orchestra when they are in residence, or one of the other many world-renowned musicians who regularly stop by.

Sample the Exquisite Cuisine

Icelandic cuisine is a truly unique beast. There are great swathes of it that will sound, well, unappetizing to an American pallet, but trust us - it is worth taking the risk. If you visit during the winter, you can sample the Nordic delicacies that they serve for ?orri, a month-long celebration that kicks off on the 13th week of winter.

Iceland really is a wonderful destination to visit. There are few countries that are so safe, welcoming, and unique in their approach to life. There are plenty of more reasons that Iceland demands to be experienced at least once, but you’ll have to discover them yourself.

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