It is wrong to assume that because of its name Iceland is a white land full of ice. Quite the opposite – it’s the land of color, greenery, and stunningly bright landscapes. When it comes to nature, Iceland has it all: volcanoes, waterfalls, mountains and even black beaches and pink geysers. Don’t believe me? Then check out these 12 unique landscapes you only get to see when you visit Iceland.
1. Dettifoss – the most powerful waterfall in Europe
Just 100 meters wide and 45 meters high, Dettifoss, located in Vatnajökull National Park, is Iceland’s largest waterfall in terms of the water flow and the most powerful (and dangerous) one in Europe. Oh, and it’s also pretty as any waterfall can be!
Image source: here
2. Laki Craters – the deadliest eruption in the history of mankind
Craters of Laki, or as it’s called correctly, Lakagígar, is a volcanic fissure, meaning it’s a linear volcanic vent where lava occasionally erupts through. Usually, it happens without any explosive activities, but not when it comes to Laki Craters. In the 18th century, the craters poured out about 14 km3 of lava and poisonous acid, which killed about 50% of Iceland’s livestock population, which then led to hunger that killed around 25% of Iceland’s human population. The eruption was so intense that it caused severe crop problems in the whole Europe and even droughts in India, taking away the lives of over 6 million people globally.
Image source: here
3. Hornbjarg – the remotest sea cliff
If your heart is yearning for escapism, go to Hornbjarg, the northernmost point of the Icelandic Westfjords. If its beautiful calming scenery doesn’t bring you zen then I don’t know what will.
Image source: here
4. Skaftafell – the most famous ice cave in Iceland
Iceland is not only the land of fire and volcanoes, but also the land of – wait for it – ice. There are a great number of ravishingly beautiful ice caves on a great number of glaciers, so pick a tour and go exploring!
Image source: here
5. Landmannalaugar – the place that will leave you speechless
Simply stunning.
Image source: here
6. Glymur – Iceland’s (former) tallest waterfall
Iceland is surprisingly suited for waterfalls that are still getting discovered every year, by the way. Glymur, which used to be Iceland’s highest waterfall until the year of 2011, is a gorgeous water cascade of 198 meters.
Image source: here
7. Reynisfjara – the black beach
Yes, Iceland has beaches and yes, they are covered in black sand out to the sea. When you visit Iceland, do make a stop at the Reynisfjara Beach – it is definitely one of the most unique-looking spots on Earth!
Image source: here
8. Strokkur – the pink geyser
Yes, it’s pink, and no, it’s not natural, but still, it deserves to be on the list. In spring 2015, a Chilean artist Marco Evaristti dyed the famous Strokkur geyser pink by using food coloring. After a big scandal, which questioned whether Evaristti’s art project was environmentally appropriate, Strokkur became even more famous.
Image source: here
9. Fjaðrárgljúfur – another place that will leave you speechless
One of the Top 50 amazing canyons in the world, Fjaðrárgljúfur is located in the south of Iceland, where the Fjaðrá river is peacefully making its way through the high rocks.
Image source: here
10. Maelifell – the perfect volcano
The magnificent Maelifell is an island of greenery amidst the darkness. Located on the Myrdalsjökull Glacier, it is a perfectly coned volcano completely covered in snow during cold Icelandic winters. So if you want to enjoy the lavishly green surface of Maelifell, pay it a visit in the springtime.
Image source: here
11. Kirkjufell – life feels safe behind the mountains
Isn’t this the most perfect scenery?
Image source: here
12. Jökulsárlón – Iceland’s deepest lake
Another beautiful discovery in the Vatnajökull National Park, Jökulsárlón is considered as one of the natural wonders of Iceland and for a good reason! The deepest in the country, this large glacial lake is so beautiful that it has its own stamp. And that must count for something!
Image source: here
Have you been to Iceland? Give me a tip about another beautiful Icelandic landscape in the comments below!
PS. You might also like:
8 Things You Should Know Before Renting A Car In Iceland
