Iceland, Not as Far Away as You Might Think

By Michael Attard

The independent country of Iceland lies in the North Atlantic Ocean between the Greenland Sea and the Norwegian Sea.

Situated just below the Arctic Circle at 66 degrees north, it stretches at the most 500 km east to west, and 300 km north to south. The total land mass is just over 103,000 square kilometers, and the population of Iceland is only 400,000 people.

“Iceland might just be the escape you’re looking for.”

For those of us living in South Korea, Iceland may appear to be an exotic destination too far away to consider as a holiday destination. But what I have come to realize is that Iceland is less than a four-hour flight from many European destinations, and five or six hours from eastern North America. Thus, for some of us who begrudge spending our vacation time just visiting family every year, and not going anywhere else, Iceland might just be the escape you are looking for. And do keep in mind that, while most tourists visit Iceland during the long summer days, the just-as-long winter nights offer fantastic views of the Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights.

What is there to see and do in Iceland? Undoubtedly this is a nature destination. On most tours, one is never far from the sea with its black stone beaches. One beach is named Diamond Beach, and aptly so, as smaller icebergs or chunks of ice that wash up onto the shore contrast with the black stones to shimmer just like diamonds. When by the sea, always be on the lookout for rogue waves. These can seem to come from nowhere, even on a calm sea, and can be deadly.

Iceland is not a very mountainous country, but in the highlands, the landscape is in places quite rugged. In these areas there may be snow at any time of year, as I personally experienced. I traveled in Iceland this past June. I was fortunate enough to see vast areas of the landscape covered in spring flowers. The purple spikes of the lupins were the most common.

Most people know that Iceland is famous for volcanoes. In past geological times and recently as well, there have been some dramatic volcanic explosions. But often, without an explosion, a fissure just opens in the ground, and the lava begins to flow. Every now and then, entire villages need to evacuate. The tour group I was on did visit and climb to the top of what I believe is an extinct volcano. But more embedded in my memory than the panoramic view from the crater rim is the power of the wind. I don’t know what the wind speed was, but at the top, many people were crawling on their hands and knees, reasonably fearful of being blown away.

Then there are the geysers and waterfalls. Our guide promised us at least one waterfall a day, and he was true to his word. These were all of different widths and heights, but they were all stupendous and loud with the roar of the melting glaciers. One particular waterfall shot off the cliff so powerfully that we were able to walk behind the cascade. Yes, you will get wet.

And I would be amiss not to tell you about what to take to Iceland. Yes, you do need a raincoat – preferably a long raincoat with a good hood. Additionally, rain pants. Even when it is not raining, the blowing wind by the sea or waterfalls will get you wet. Warm clothes are essential. Even in June, early morning temperatures may be in the single digits. Dress in layers, bring a hat that won’t blow away and gloves that will dry quickly. On your feet, wear proper waterproof hiking boots.

And for the indoors, bring a sleeping mask. During the summer there are 21 hours of sunlight each day. Basically, it never gets dark. The light can mess with your mind. The mask will help to convince your brain that it is time to sleep. Your travel days will be busy; you don’t want to skimp on sleep.

On a final note, Iceland is expensive. I believe that this is because so many goods need to be imported, and there are high taxes, since there are so few people. On the flip side of expensive restaurants, the mutton and cod were the best I’ve ever had.

That then is a quick look at Iceland. In summary, it is a wonderful place to visit, even for just a few days. So if you find yourself in North America or Europe, looking to get off the beaten track, Iceland is a short plane ride away.

Cover Photo: Sun Voyager. (Michael Attard)