Introduction
Iceland holidays literally burst with natural attractions; active volcanoes, geysers and thermal pools hint at the explosive force here whilst great glaciers continue to carve and sculpt the dramatic landscape and the Northern Lights put on a surreal show in the skies above.
Reykjavik, the world's most northerly capital, is a cultural powerhouse, with art galleries, museums and a coffee culture to rival anywhere. At night the city jumps to a vibrant music scene whilst on weekends the locals maintain the tradition of the runtur, the legendary Icelandic pub-crawl.
Outside the capital, the Blue Lagoon, set amidst a black lava field in the heart of the volcanic wilderness is a popular attraction for people who want to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of the mineral-rich waters.
To see the main sights take a tour of the Golden Circle, which encompasses the gushing pools of Geysir, the giant double waterfall of Gulfoss and the rugged rift valley at Pingvellir, site of the ancient parliament, the Althing.
The more adventurous should travel to the western fjords to stand on Europe's most westerly point and see sea birds in vast numbers. Cruise to the Westman Islands to find puffins though. Walkers should take the opportunity to trek on Vatnajokull, Europe's largest ice cap, although a skidoo safari here or dogsled trips on the icecaps at Myrdalsjokull are marginally less taxing.
