As I look back on my recent trip to Iceland, I'm filled with excitement all over again. Iceland is truly a land of contrasts, where fire and ice create an awe-inspiring landscape. And exploring it with my friend, Lorie made every moment even more special. From enjoying delicious Icelandic cuisine to chasing the Northern Lights and discovering the country's natural beauty, each experience was an adventure to cherish forever.

Day 1: Arrival and Culinary Delights

We landed in Reykjavik, brimming with excitement for the adventures awaiting us. Taking advantage of an early check-in, we wasted no time in delving into the city’s culinary offerings. After a power nap, we headed straight to Loa, a renowned restaurant serving up a feast of savory Icelandic dishes and mouthwatering pastries. Every bite introduced us to the rich flavors of Iceland, igniting our senses and fueling our anticipation for the journey ahead.

After satisfying our appetites and enjoying a leisurely stroll through downtown Reykjavik, where we meandered from the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Cathedral to the vibrant Skolavordustigur street (a.k.a. Rainbow Street), we decided to further explore Icelandic cuisine. Following recommendations, we made our way to Loki Café for dinner, eager to delve into the country’s culinary traditions. Here, we embarked on a culinary adventure with the infamous fermented shark, accompanied by traditional rye bread. The experience was both daring and delightful, offering a unique taste of Iceland’s culinary heritage.

With our taste buds tingling and our bellies content, we continued to soak in the charm and energy of Iceland’s capital city, reveling in the memories of our culinary discoveries and eagerly anticipating the adventures that lay ahead.

Day 2: The Golden Circle and Aurora Quest

Our second day in Iceland was an extraordinary immersion into the country’s natural wonders, beginning with a visit to Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, we were enthralled by the striking landscape, walking along the rift valley formed by the meeting of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The rugged terrain and the sheer magnitude of geological forces at play left us in awe.

Continuing along the Golden Circle, we made a spontaneous stop at Efstidalur II, a charming family-run dairy farm. Surrounded by rolling hills and grazing cows, we indulged in creamy Icelandic ice cream, savoring each spoonful as we took in the picturesque scenery.

Refreshed and energized, we headed to the geothermal area of Geysir, where we were greeted by the bubbling mud pools and steaming vents. The highlight of our stop was witnessing the powerful eruptions of the Strokkur geyser, shooting columns of boiling water skyward in a mesmerizing display of nature’s raw power. We also made a quick stop on a hot spring where tourists get to experience to bake rye bread underground.

We continued our journey to the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, where we stood in awe of the roaring cascade plunging into the canyon below. The sheer magnitude and beauty of Gullfoss left us speechless, reminding us of the breathtaking wonders that Iceland has to offer.

As our stomachs began to rumble, we made our way to the Tomato Greenhouse, where we were treated to a lunch made with fresh, locally-grown tomatoes. Dining amidst rows of thriving tomato plants added a unique and flavorful twist to our Golden Circle adventure, tantalizing our taste buds and satisfying our hunger.

Before concluding our day, we made a spontaneous detour to Kerið, a volcanic crater lake. The sight of the tranquil turquoise waters nestled within the crater’s rugged walls was a serene and captivating finale to our Golden Circle adventure, offering a moment of quiet reflection amidst the day’s excitement.

As night descended upon us, we eagerly joined a group in search of the elusive Northern Lights. Though the auroras remained elusive that evening, the experience of standing beneath the star-studded sky, surrounded by Iceland’s untamed landscapes, left an indelible mark on our hearts, capping off an unforgettable day of exploration and discovery.

Day 3: Museum Marvels and Culinary Exploration

Our third day in Iceland promised a blend of intellectual stimulation and gastronomic delights. We began by immersing ourselves in the fascinating exhibits of the Perlan Museum, where we delved into Iceland’s rich history and geological wonders. From interactive displays showcasing volcanic eruptions to insightful presentations on glacial formations, every corner of the museum offered new insights into the land of fire and ice.

Eager to satisfy our growing appetite, we embarked on a culinary adventure at Mama, a delightful vegan restaurant nestled in Reykjavik’s culinary scene. Here, we were treated to a vibrant array of plant-based dishes, from hearty lentil stews to flavorful naan bread. Each bite was a testament to the creativity and innovation of Icelandic cuisine, proving that vegan dining could be both satisfying and delicious.

Day 4: Relaxation and Curiosity

Our fourth day in Iceland was a perfect balance of relaxation and curiosity, beginning with a visit to the iconic Blue Lagoon. Nestled amidst the otherworldly lava fields, this geothermal spa offered a tranquil oasis where we could unwind and rejuvenate amidst the mineral-rich waters. As we soaked in the soothing warmth, surrounded by the rugged beauty of our surroundings, we couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of serenity and awe.

After a blissful morning at the Blue Lagoon, our curiosity led us to the Phallological Museum, a quirky yet fascinating attraction that offered a unique glimpse into Iceland’s cultural quirks and traditions. Exploring the eclectic collection of phallic specimens, from mammalian to marine, we were intrigued by the museum’s humorous yet educational approach to the subject matter. It was definitely an interesting and memorable experience.

Day 5: South Coast Wonders

Venturing beyond Reykjavik, we embarked on a tour of the South Coast, eager to explore the untamed beauty of Iceland’s countryside. Our journey began with a scenic drive along the rugged coastline, where towering cliffs and crashing waves greeted us at every turn.

Our first stop was Seljalandsfoss, a majestic waterfall cascading from a height of over 60 meters. Here, we were mesmerized by the sheer power and beauty of nature as we stood in awe of the thundering waters and felt the cool mist on our faces. The next stop is Skógafoss which equally mesmerized us with its its towering presence and thundering cascades of water. The sight of rainbow arching gracefully was truly captivating.

Continuing our adventure, we made our way to the iconic black sand beach of Reynisfjara, where towering basalt columns rose from the volcanic shores. Against the backdrop of the wild Atlantic Ocean, we felt a sense of wonder and reverence for Iceland’s dramatic landscapes.

Next on our itinerary was the mesmerizing Katla Ice Cave, a hidden gem nestled beneath the Mýrdalsjökull glacier. As we ventured into the cave, we were surrounded by walls of ice. It was a surreal experience that left us breathless and in awe of the natural forces at work.

As a fun fact, we learned that several Hollywood movies and TV shows have used Iceland’s stunning landscapes as filming locations, including scenes from “Game of Thrones,” “Interstellar,” and “Star Wars.” Standing in the midst of these cinematic settings, we couldn’t help but feel like we were part of our own epic adventure.

As the day drew to a close, we embarked on our second quest for the elusive Northern Lights. With clear skies and a sense of anticipation, we ventured into the darkness, hoping to witness nature’s most dazzling display. Though the auroras remained elusive, the experience of standing beneath the star-studded sky, surrounded by Iceland’s untamed wilderness, was a reminder of the beauty and mystery of the natural world.

As we returned to Reykjavik, tired but exhilarated from our day of exploration, we couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to witness Iceland’s South Coast wonders and the magic of the Northern Lights, a testament to the extraordinary beauty of this land.

Day 6: Reykjavik Neighborhoods and Beyond

We embarked on a day of exploration, eager to uncover the hidden treasures of the city’s vibrant neighborhoods and neighboring towns. Starting in Laugavegur, we wandered through narrow alleys lined with colorful houses, soaking in the charm and history of this centuries-old area. The towering spire of Hallgrímskirkja Cathedral provided a striking backdrop as we strolled through the cobblestone streets, discovering quaint cafes, boutique shops, and local galleries along the way.

Continuing our journey, we found ourselves drawn back to the modern architecture of Harpa Concert Hall, where the striking glass facade shimmered in the sunlight. Venturing beyond the city limits on public buses, we explored the surrounding neighborhoods and towns, each offering its own unique blend of Icelandic charm and community spirit. From the tranquil coastal village of Hafnarfjörður to the bustling suburb of Kópavogur, we saw picturesque landscapes, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

Day 7: Sky Lagoon

As our Icelandic adventure drew to a close, we sought solace and relaxation at the breathtaking Sky Lagoon. Perched on the edge of the North Atlantic Ocean, this geothermal oasis offered panoramic views of the surrounding seascape, creating a sense of tranquility and serenity.

Immersing ourselves in the soothing waters, we let go of the stresses of everyday life and reflected on the journey we had undertaken. From the majestic landscapes of the Golden Circle to the bustling streets of Reykjavik, each moment had been filled with wonder and discovery.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the horizon, we felt a profound sense of gratitude for the experiences we had shared and the memories we would carry with us. The beauty of Iceland’s landscapes was matched only by the warmth and kindness of its people.

Throughout our journey, we encountered countless individuals who went out of their way to make our trip unforgettable. From the hotel staff who greeted us with genuine smiles and made us feel at home, to the tour guides who shared their knowledge and passion for Iceland’s natural wonders, we were continually touched by their hospitality and generosity.

As we bid farewell to Iceland, we carried with us not only memories of its breathtaking landscapes but also a deep appreciation for the kindness and warmth of its people. Their hospitality had enriched our journey in ways we could never have imagined, leaving an indelible mark on our hearts.

With renewed energy and hearts full of memories, we boarded our flight home, knowing that while our time in Iceland had come to an end, its beauty and magic would stay with us forever.

Till next time Iceland…xoxo