Ring Around Iceland

In southwestern Iceland near Faxaflói Bay sits Reykjavík, the nation’s capital, effortlessly blending cosmopolitan energy with small-town charm. Its horizon is dotted with colorful houses, creating a picturesque scene that beckons visitors to stay. The Harpa Concert Hall, a shimmering glass masterpiece, showcases Iceland’s modern architecture, and captivating design enthusiasts. Perched atop Öskjuhlíð Hill, Perlan—once a cluster of hot water tanks—has been transformed into a dynamic landmark featuring an exhibition space, planetarium, restaurant, and observation deck.

Amid the breathtaking landscapes of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula lies the small town of Grundarfjörður, home to fewer than 1,000 residents. Its most iconic landmark, Kirkjufell—meaning "Church Mountain"—invites adventurers to experience Iceland’s natural beauty. Paired with the three-pronged Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall, the scene feels like something out of a fairytale. Strolling through the town center, you’ll encounter an unexpected sight—an orca on land. This sculpture, crafted by Unnsteinn Guðmundsson, was inspired by Thunderstorm, a male orca known for greeting visitors during whale-watching tours.

Amid the enchanting Westfjords of Iceland stands Isafjordur, a fishing town thriving with local energy and culture. Summer months here are brisk, but it’s this cool climate combined with breathtaking and quaint scenery that makes the village feel like an undiscovered treasure. The massive depression among the flat-topped mountains called Naustahvilft - known colloquially as the troll seat - combines Iceland’s natural beauty with the town’s rich folklore. Make a stop at Dokkan Brugghús, the only brewery in the entire Westfjords, and sample the local beers, crafted with naturally filtered spring water from the nearby mountains. For those for whom the sea’s siren call beckons, you must visit the Westfjord History Museum, based on Isafjordur’s maritime heritage and its rise in the fishing industry.
 

A rich folklore culture abounds in Akureyri, Iceland, put on full display during the city’s festivals throughout the year. Inland, only 50 kilometers south of the Arctic Circle, is the Akureyri Botanical Garden, a remarkable sight with brightly colored flowers and lush greenery. The iconic Akureyrarkirkja (or The Church of Akureyri) designed by architect Guðjón Samúelsson resembles a 1920s U.S. skyscraper, but within its walls stands an impressive 3,200-pipe organ. Among the local favorite eating spots is Greifinn, a modern restaurant serving a mix of fare from classic burgers to pasta to Tex Mex to salted fish pizza (to honor Iceland’s roots).

The tiny, picturesque village of Seydisfjordur is the pearl of Iceland. A town of just 700 people, it is hidden at the innermost point of the fjord of the same name. In the valley above town, the river Fjardara cascades over the hill to create several, beautiful waterfalls, down to the lagoon at the head of the fjord. Throughout the scenic village, you’ll also find well-preserved, old wooden buildings, an enticing subject for photography as you walk down Rainbow Street.

Nestled along Iceland’s eastern coast, Djúpivogur boasts a vibrant community that treasures its traditions. As you explore, the genuine warmth of the locals, known for their artisanal crafts and storytelling, invites you to become better acquainted. Taste the heart of Icelandic cuisine, indulging in freshly caught seafood, and savoring dishes like langoustine and Arctic char treated with traditional culinary artistry. The farm-to-table dining ethos is strong here, with meals crafted from local, organic produce paired with some of the finest brews and spirits. Djúpivogur’s history is steeped in maritime lore, from its early days as a bustling fishing village to its significance in the trade routes. Explore the Langabud museum, one of Iceland’s oldest trading houses, where centuries-old artifacts tell stories of a bygone era and the resilience of its people. Nearby, the grandeur of roaring waterfalls like the spectacular Hengifoss is highlighted by colorful rhyolite cliffs. Keep an eye out for puffins, seals, and possibly whales.

Say halló to volcanoes, lava fields, caves, and mountains on the fascinating island of Heimaey - literally translated as Home Island. Part of the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago (Westman Islands), this destination offers views of lush cliffsides and classic Icelandic architecture that will take your breath away. Built around the remains of an excavated home buried by ash during Eldfell’s eruption you’ll find the Eldheimar Museum, which offers an excellent audio guide that takes you through the home and describes the history and events before, during, and after the eruption. One of the most iconic landmarks of Vestmannaeyjar, Elephant Rock, lies just off the south coast of Iceland. And there’s no need to squint to see it, because, from every angle, you can see a gargantuan elephant in the middle of the sea.

 

In the southwest of Iceland near Faxaflói Bay lies the capital of the country, Reykjavík, simultaneously cosmopolitan and charming. The colorful houses on the horizon create a quaint scene that will make you want to stay forever. Kaleidoscopic views await you at the Harpa Concert Hall, a glittering, glass structure that perfectly exemplifies Iceland’s modern design and will fascinate your inner architect. One of Iceland’s most prominent landmarks is Perlan, originally a group of hot water tanks that was converted into a building that now hosts an exhibition, planetarium, restaurant, and observation deck, located atop Oskjuhlid hill.