Places - Regions, nature, culture and historical locations and the waterfalls of Iceland.

Iceland is an island nation of extreme natural contrasts. The traditional theme and image of Iceland has been ice and fire. But it is much more than that. Mother nature has painted a magnificent tapestry of colors with geological phenomena not matched elsewhere in the world. Inexorably intertwined with this exotic natural environment are the 280,000 Icelanders who, along with their Nordic and Celtic ancestors, have called this North Atlantic island home for over 1100 years. They live mostly along the coast, over one-have of them within a 20-kilometer radius of the capital city of Reykjavík.

From the capital city to remote farms on the tips of exposed fjords, Iceland is picturesque, with some features of the moon surface. Volcanoes, hot springs and glaciers influence the look and feel of the country. The vistas at every turn are decidedly not boring. The changeable weather conditions also keep you alert for something new and different at each turn. But a constant is the friendly engaging Icelander who more often than not has a mastery of English and a sense of what interests the visitor. The Icelander loves to brag about the country; its natural wonders and the historical treasures and traditions that make the place unique. And along the way you will encounter elves, ghosts and the hidden people if you keep your eyes and ears open.

Iceland is difficult for travelers to appreciate fully and to understand even during a two-week visit. But you can plan to immerse yourself in the nature and culture by understanding the geography of the country and what places might most intrigue you. Whether you have three days or several weeks, you should get a grasp of the regions, natural wonders and cultural spots outside Reykjavík before you plan your trip.

What follows are brief descriptions of the regions of Iceland, its natural and cultural location highlights, plus a separate section on the waterfalls of Iceland.

Regions of Iceland

Greater Reykjavík Area: - The first and most important place for a visitor to experience is Reykjavík, the capital city, with its unique blend of architectural statements from bland apartment blocks to soaring church towers and modern sculpture throughout the city. Reykjavík has everything to offer that its larger sister European capital cities do and in some cases, more. All visitors to Iceland should experience the center of Iceland's cultural, educational and entertainment universes. More and more Icelanders are migrating to this expanding city on the peninsula in Faxaflói Bay. The city of Reykjavík includes residential suburbs of Árbær, Breiðholt and Grafarvogur. Greater Reykjavík includes the towns of Seltjarnarness, Kópavogur, Hafnarfjörður, Garðabær, Bessastaður and Mosfellsbær.

Reykjanes Peninsula: - This large landmass jutting southwestward from Reykjavík is home of the Keflavík International Airport, most visitors' first encounter with Iceland. Reykjanes is an oversized lava field with lots to intrigue the visitor…hot springs, whale watching, the Blue Lagoon, impressive bird cliffs, active fishing villages and some bizarre lava formations. Keflavík and Grindavík are the largest towns on the Reykjanes peninsula.

Southwestern Iceland: includes areas south of Reykjavík as far east as Myrdalsjökull. This area is the most appealing and easiest area for visitors to get to from Reykjavík for day tours and visits that include gorgeous waterfalls, Iceland's famous geysers, many glaciers, beautiful natural retreats in the interior such as Þórsmörk and Landmannalaugur and peaceful farm country. Some of this country was not so peaceful during Iceland's great Saga Age from 874 to 1200 when local feuds led to death and intrigue. Some of the major towns in this area are Selfoss, Hveragerði, Hella, Hvolsvöllur and Vík I Myrdal.

Southeastern Iceland: is dominated by the great Vatnajökull (jökull is Icelandic for glacier), which covers active volcanoes, subterranean lakes and provides all kinds of exploration possibilities. The villages of Kirkjubæjarklaustur and Höfn form the western and eastern entry points to this rugged coastal area of Iceland. Höfn is one of the few fishing ports on the south coast and is the location of the regional airport. A visit to the Skaftafell National Park and the Jökulsá Lagoon are highlights of the natural wonders in this region. In recent years this area, particularly on Vatnajökull, has seen the highest level of volcanic activity in Iceland. While this is disruptive to regional travel, volcanic eruptions in the area are generally a major and safe tourist attraction.

Eastern Iceland: is a massive area of great natural diversity from board bays, expansive forests, and reindeer herds to sheer mountain ridges forming rugged, jagged fjords. Sheltered harbors are home to fishing villages such as Seðisfjörður, Neskaupstaður, and Eskifjörður. Stretching from Bakkafjörður on the north to Djúpivogur on the south, the eastern part of Iceland is centered at the inland village of Egilsstaðir where flights come into the region from Reykjavík.

Northeastern Iceland: offers some of Iceland's top natural spots and its second largest city at Akureyri in Eyjafjörður. Mývatn, Krafla, Ásbyrggi, and Húsavík are perfect locations for enjoying nature on land and sea. Dettifoss, Europe's largest waterfall, and Goðafoss, arguably Iceland's most beautiful waterfall, are worth visits. This region affords access to Iceland's only location north of the Arctic Circle, Grímsey Island, reached by plane or boat.

Northern Iceland: focuses on two large bodies of water - Húnafloi and Skagafjöður with small towns and many historical sites dotting the coastline. Hólar, Hofsós, Glaumbær, and Víðimýri are among Iceland's most interesting historical locations for getting a glimpse into Iceland's pre-independence centuries. Municipal centers include Blönduós, Sauðurkrókur, Varmahlið, Siglufjöður, Ólafsfjörður and Dalvík, just north of Akureyri.

The West Fjords: are too often missed by visitors due to its distance (real and perceived) from Route 1, the circle road, and from other population centers. The West Fjords are a mass of fjords, mountains and isolated villages on spits of lands surrounded by water and mountains. The scenery is stunning and well worth at least a few days of attention for the adventurous traveler. Ísafjörður is the main town of the West Fjords with the regional airport in town. Other settlements and villages include Bolungarvík, Flateyri, Þingeyri, Hólmavík and Patreksfjörður. The area includes its own glacier, the magnificent, remote Hornstrandir and Europe's westernmost point of land at Látrabjarg.

Western Iceland: includes points north and west of Reykjavík such as Borgarfjörður, the beautiful and mystical Snæfellsnes peninsula and the Dalir region. This region is steeped in Saga literary tradition and offers the traveler a glimpse of Iceland's Viking past as well as peaceful nature settings. Cruises into the great Breiðafjörður north of Snæfellsnes visit areas rich in bird and sea life. Major towns and settlements include Akranes, Borgarnes, Reykholt, Ólafsvík, and Stykkishólmur.

Iceland's Top Natural and Cultural Spots outside Reykjavík

Southern, Western and Northwestern Iceland

Blue Lagoon - One of Iceland's top tourist sites, the lagoon is a mineral-rich swimming and bathing area carved out of the lava fields of the Reykjanes peninsula. The water is rich in silica, said to be good for the skin. The water temperature ranges from 30 to 40 degrees Celsius, making a dip before or after a long international flight both very relaxing and refreshing. Location: North of Grindavík on the south coast and 15 minutes from the Keflavík International Airport.

Krísuvík - This is a geothermal area on the Reykjanes peninsula with steam vents, mud pools, and sulphur deposits. Location: South and west of Hafnarfjörður, a suburb of Reykjavík.

Þingvellir National Park - Þingvellir (pronounced Thingvedlir) and the nearby lake Þingvallavatn is a national park and has historical significance to Icelanders as the location of the original Althing (parliament) founded in 930AD. This protected area is the best place to view the great mid-Atlantic ridge as it runs through the middle of this national park forming gorges and ridges of lava. Even if you visit Iceland only for two days, this locale should be a mandatory stop. Location: About 40 minutes west of Reykjavík and usually one of the first stops on the Golden Circle day tours.

Geysir - This is the namesake for all geysers in the world and is a fascinating close-up of mother nature's idiosyncrasies. There are two active geysers and many bubbling hot pools along with hotel, restaurant and museum facilities. The Great Geysir is not a regular performer, though more active since a June 2000 earthquake in the area enlivened its activity. Strokkur is smaller but very active and erupts about every 5 minutes to a height of 100 feet. Location: North and west of Laugurvatn and not far from Gullfoss.

Skálholt - Skálholt, the southern bishopric of Iceland, was for 700 years the cultural and religious center in southern Iceland. The current church, built in 1963, has some beautiful art work and the location has some fascinating history of beheadings and intrigue. Location: Near Laugarvatn and sometimes visited on the Golden Circle.

Laugurvatn - The name means warm lake, this is a central location and a home for a number of schools for the region that operate as hotels in the summer. Laugarvatn is a top summer vacation spot for Icelanders. Located west of Þingvellir.

Hekla - A beautiful and sometimes peaceful mountain, this was one of the most feared locations in Medieval Europe and was considered the entrance to hell. This volcano erupts rather frequently, six times in the 20th century and last in 2000; it is a great place to visit and hike through. Location: West of Hella and southwest of Landmannalaugur.

Þósmörk - One of the top natural preserves in Iceland, this area is ideal for hiking during the summer months. It can be a challenge to get to due to the many rivers that have to be crossed. Beautiful hiking trails and glacier vistas can be enjoyed here. Location: Lies north of Eyjarfjallajökull and is best reach on a tour with a four-wheel drive jeep or bus.

Landmannalaugur - A paradise in the interior full of multi-colored rhyolite rock formations and a warm hot spring river suitable for swimming and relaxing. This is a camper's spot and worth a visit with experienced tour guides. Location: West of Helka and north of Mýrsdaljökull.

Dyrhólaey - This is a magnificent promontory jutting out into the Atlantic at Iceland's southern most mainland tip. The 360 feet summit with its remote lighthouse offer views east and west along the southern coast and a look down through a natural arch big enough for a small plane to fly through and for boats to motor through. This is a bird sanctuary and can be closed to traffic during nesting season in the late spring. Location: Near the village of Vík í Mýrdal.

Vestmannaeyjar - This is a collection of 15 islands off the southwest coast of Iceland and is home to about 5000 inhabitants and many birds and interesting sea life. The settlement of Heimaey is famous for its 1973 volcanic eruption and being the home of Keiko of "Free Willy" fame. These islands are accessible from the main land by plane or ferry and are well worth a visit. Location: Off the south coast of Iceland.

Snorri's Pool at Reykholt - Reykholt was the home of Snorri Sturluson, famous writer and statesman, in the early years of Iceland's Saga Age. This location offers a look into Iceland's early history and provides some intrigue and mystery about this very accomplished man of culture. On-going archaeological digs are finding new and exciting remnants of Snorri's estate at Reykholt. Location: West of Borgarnes and about an hour and a half drive from Reykjavík.

Arnarstapi - This is a beautiful seaside setting on the south coast of Snæfellsnes peninsula not far from the glacier. Full of interesting cliffs and sea stacks abundant in bird life, this is a peaceful location to enjoy birds, seals and the sounds of ocean surf. Location: Due west from Borgarnes and about 2 and a half hours drive from Reykjavík.

Hellnar - A location similar to Arnarstapi, this area is steeped in mysticism and lore of the early settlement of this area of Iceland. Hellnar is directly under the glacier and affords some of the most enjoyable vistas of sea and land to be found in western Iceland. It is also a center for organized tours of the western end of Snæfellsnes pensinsula. Location: 15 minutes west of Arnastapi.

Helgafell - It is said that this small hill outside Stykkishólmur is magical and those who climb it without looking back or talking will have three wishes granted. From the easily reached summit a lovely view can be enjoyed. Located 5 minutes from Stykkishólmur on the north coast of Snæfellsnes peninsula.

Ísafjarðardjúp - This large, indented fjord divides the northwestern fjord region of Iceland in two and represents the focal point of activity and sites in this remote though beautiful and friendly part of Iceland. Boat tours in the summer including visits to the islands of the fjord - Vigur and Æðey- are time well spent for the visitor/explorer.

Location: Western Fjords

Hornstrandir Nature Reserve - Accessed by boat, this uninhabited area of northwest Iceland is a place for hikers and walkers to enjoy unspoiled land with wonderful vistas and wildflowers afoot. The southeastern end is bordered by the ice cap Drangajökull. Though difficult to get to, it is a special place for lovers of the great outdoors, only in summer, though. Location: North of Ísafjörður.

Látrabjarg - This is a fantastic birdcliff area in the northwest and represents Europe's farthest western point. A birdwatcher's paradise, this area can be reached by road during the summer months. Location: Near Patreksfjörður on the southern point of land in the northwestern fjord region.

Northern, Eastern and Southeastern Iceland

Glaumbær - One of the Iceland's best-preserved turf homes, this museum is fully furnished with farmhouse implements and kitchen and pantry materials from the 18th century. Location: Outside Varmahlið just off the main road to Akureyri.

Víðmýri - This very small wooden church with a turf roof built in 1834 is a classic example of the simplicity of Icelandic life in bygone days. Location: Outside Varmahlið just off the main road to Akureyri.

Hólar í Hjaltadal - Skálholt's counter-part in the north, Hólar is the location of the northern bishopric of Iceland and offers a fascinating historical perspective of early Icelandic religious tradition and events in a beautiful, serene setting. Now an agricultural school and horse farm, Hólar is a must visit on the northern route to Akureyri. Location: South of Hofsós and north of Varmahlið.

Hofsós - This small fishing village is now the home of the popular Icelandic Emigration Center. The center traces the migration paths of Icelanders who moved to North America mostly before the turn of the 20th century. For any visitor with Icelandic ancestry, this is a must visit. Location: On Skagafjörður north of Varmahlið.

Grímsey - This is an island cut in half by the Arctic Circle and a popular place for day trippers to fly in for a visit, receive a document notarizing the Arctic Circle visit and then return south. This island outpost is interesting for bird lovers and well worth a day's visit for walkers to enjoy its peaceful setting. Location: Off the north coast of Iceland.

Mývatn - This lake and surrounding park-like setting is one of Iceland's top natural gems, now a national conservation landmark. The area is full of bird life, a variety of natural phenomena and right next door to geothermal and volcanically active areas. Local tours are available and the region is an excellent hiking and fishing spot. Location: About 45 minute's drive east of Akureyri and has a small airstrip for charter flights.

Ásbyrgi - This is a horseshoe-shaped canyon, part of Jökulsárgljúfur National Park, that lures the visitor into its cliff surrounded center green with trees and grasslands. Location: East of Húsavík and north of Dettifoss.

Askja - A recently active volcano, Mt. Askja in the interior is an example of how Mother Nature can dramatically alter the landscape when a massive volcanic eruption wreaks havoc. Craters and lakes abound in this area north of Vatnajökull and are worth a visit with an experienced guide on a scheduled tour. Location: South of Mývatn, west of Egilsstaðir and north of the great Vatnajökull.

Laki - Location of Iceland's most devastating volcanic eruption in recorded history (1783), its craters are still steaming today. There are fabulous views to be had from the summit. Location: North of Kirkjubæjarklaustur in the southeast.

Eldgjá - This is the most extensive explosion fissure in the world. It is a 15-mile long rift and contains one of Iceland's most beautiful waterfalls in its interior. Location: Northeast of Mýrdalsjökull.

Hveravellir - This hot springs oasis lies in the middle of the country on the Kjölur route and offers geysers and hot pools suitable for swimming. This popular location is a stop for scheduled tours and travelers heading north near Langjökull. Location: On the Kjölur Route midway between north and south.

Skaftafell National Park - Right under Vatnajökull (Europe's largest glacier), Skaftefell has been shaped by the glacier, volcanic eruptions under the glacier, resulting floods and water erosion. Some of the loveliest vistas in Iceland are to be experienced here on a clear day. Lowlands, lava beaches, rushing rivers, hillside farms and the massive glacier make this a paradise for hikers, mountain/ice climbers and tourists on scheduled tours. Location: West and south of Höfn, the nearest regional airport.

Jökulsárlon - This is the great glacial lake (full of floating icebergs) that didn't exist before 1900 and could disappear with new seismic or volcanic action. Boat trips on the lake are dream-like with the shapes and beautiful hues of blues visible in the calved glacial ice, a photographer's paradise. Location: West of Höfn on the southeast coast.

The Waterfalls of Iceland

Dettifoss - Touted as Europe's most powerful waterfall, this 145 feet high cataract is in a remote area in the Jökulsárgjufur National Park.

Dynjandi - Located in the northwestern fjords at the head of the northern arm of Arnarfjörður (also known as Fjallfoss), this waterfall fans out as it cascades down 200 feet. It spauns several other waterfalls below it.

Glymur - Iceland's highest waterfall at 650 feet is an hour's walk from the road.

Goðafoss - "The fall of the gods" is an easy-to-reach powerful waterfall on the way to Mývatn. This waterfall is the most photographed waterfall in the north and quite a sight to enjoy.

Gullfoss - Certainly the most visited waterfall in Iceland, it is included in the popular Golden Circle daily tours. It is best to walk up close to the falls to enjoy the full majesty and power of this double waterfall.

Hengifoss - In eastern Iceland, this is Iceland's third highest waterfall at 387 feet. It is reached after a long walk just west of Lagarfljót south of Egilsstaðir.

Hraunfossar and Barnafoss - On the Hvitá river in the Reykholt area near Borgarnes, these two closely connect waterfalls are well worth a visit. Hraunfossar is a waterfall flowing out of a lava field and running down a broad stretch of riverbank.

Ófærufoss - In the Eldgjá area of the interior, this waterfall has a fabulous arch that frames its upper reaches. One can walk across the arch in safety. This site is included on guided tours of this area.

Seljalandsfoss - This is a tall, narrow and often wind-blown waterfall that is breathtaking and fun to sit and watch from a picnic table. The visitor can walk behind the falls without getting drenched.

Skógafoss - Near the settlement of Skógar on the south coast, this magnificent waterfall always sports a beautiful rainbow on sunny days and is worth a hike up to its summit. (180 feet)