On my latest trip back to the states, I ended up with a layover in Reykjavík, Iceland. But not just any layover, a 19 hour layover. Which left certainly enough time for a one day drive around the southern region of Iceland.
My day in Iceland felt stark, solitary, and introspective. The volcanic landscapes are beautiful and almost alien, the coastlines are rugged and the ocean is rough. Even with just a day to drive around, the scenery changes dramatically. I left feeling as if I had seen a lot, and yet with so much more I knew I’d missed.
Waterfalls:
I saw Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss. At Skógafoss, you can even climb lots and lots of steps to the top, which is quite frightening when its cold, wet, and windy. Like most of the time in Iceland, I suspect. Gorgeous, though. If you’re super into waterfalls, Iceland is the place for you.
Churches:
So many cool church-scapes. Austere.
Reykjavík:
Hallgrímskirkja Lutheran Church, Harpa Concert Hall, the Sun Voyager sculpture; I hit all the tourist sites. And that was that.
Puffins:
I didn’t actually see any, just this guy… I really tried, though. The whipping wind and pouring rain made it tough.
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Coastline:
The Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is incredible. And dangerous, watch out for Iceland’s “sneaker waves”. This beach was my favorite part of my Icelandic self-guided tour.
Craters:
The Kerið Crater Lake is part Golden Circle tour. Its pretty spectacular and nearby Reykjavík, so easy to get there.
Geothermal Iceland:
Geothermal is used for power, heating, and, most importantly, hot spring spas. And it looks pretty amazing.
Landscapes and Horses:
I think “landscapes and horses” largely sums up Iceland.
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