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THE ISLAND OF ICE AND FIRE 3 – Reykjanes Peninsula
01/27/2017
Slowly putting a puzzle together about beauty of the island on the edge of the Arctic Circle. All we have seen so far would be probably enough for average travelers. But, this is Iceland folks! There is much more natural gems yet to be seen. Okay, we saw the ” main stream “, a good part of tourists stops here. The majority of travelers to Iceland visit only “Golden Circle”, Reykjavik and surroundings. But now is getting interesting, and there is much more attraction waiting for you. Wherever you decide to go back to Reykjavik, you`ll come across on a new attraction, some new scenery, landscape … In the southwest of Iceland there are large number of active volcanic systems and rivers, formed by melting glaciers which covers volcanoes. Rivers form dramatic canyons and make huge problems to the locals when volcanoes erupted. This area is famous for its volcanic fields, areas covered with petrified lava and leguminous plant species. Although new in tourism business, Icelanders assess their chances very good. Tourist information boards about attractions, placed all over the country, prove this fact. They often surprise you with the instructions to visit new attractions, you`ve never herd for.
Kerid Volcano
The first thing when you become aware of Icelands beauty will be a thought that you won`t have enough time to see everything you wish for. It`s very important to have a good plan and awareness that there`s still much more to be seen. The good side of the whole story is that during high season practically there`s no darkness. So, all depends on the physical endurance of visitors. In other words, no sleep, you’re in Iceland!
One of the attractions of the island is driving on gravel roads. These roads are made of volcanic gravel, in most cases. You can find them in the areas of permanent seismic and volcanic activities, practically on the live ground.
Gravel road, Reykjanes
There are strict instructions on how to use these roads. It is recommended to use a 4×4 vehicle, but it`s possible to use the standard one with additional precaution. Such roads are in the southern part of the peninsula Reykjanes, in the area of nature reserve Reykjanesfolkvangur.
Kleifarvatn Lake
Here you can see dramatic, breathtaking landscapes. Looks like everything else, except planet Earth as we know it. In the nature reserve Reykjanesfolkvangur is Krysuvik, geothermal area with a large number fumaroles, solfataras, hot water springs and boiling mud.
Krysuvik
In the south western part of Reykjanes is a small town Grindavik, surrounded by black volcanic rocks. The black rocks are sign that we are very close to possibly most visited attraction of Iceland, a geothermal spa ” Blue Lagoon”. The warm waters are rich in minerals silica and sulfur. Recommended for treatment of skin diseases, especially psoriasis. There`s a bar in the middle of the lagoon which serves a variety of cold drinks and the house special ” Blue Lagoon ” cocktail.
Blue Lagoon
Lagoon is the ideal remedy for the “return to life” after crazy partying in Reykjavik or after a busy day of touring the gems of Iceland.
Paradise on the edge of the Arctic
Full of impressions, we are ready to move and travel along Route 1 to the north and east of the country .
To be continued …