Leisurely Abroad Part I

As we gear up for a new year, travel plans often come into play. Where will 2022 bring us? With the help of travel blogger and Leisurely guest contributor Carla Vianna, we may be able to narrow down that dream list of destinations.

FIRST STOP, ICELAND!

Road Tripping Through The Land of Fire and Ice

They call it the land of fire and ice for a reason.

Four months before my visit to Iceland, a new volcano erupted to life just 35 minutes from the Reykjavik airport. Yet just a few hours east, glacier chunks drifted passed the shoreline of a black sand beach.

Iceland consistently awes travelers with its rugged, otherworldly landscape, where volcanos, glaciers, and waterfalls graciously coexist. Ready to plan an unforgettable vacation to Iceland?

WHY GO

The best way to enjoy Iceland is to road trip around the island so that you can make as many stops as you please. The country has a highlight reel of natural landmarks to choose from, and I can guarantee that you’ll never run out of things to see or do.

What surprised me most about Iceland is how easily accessible some of its most iconic landmarks can be.

In most destinations, a long trek is a prerequisite to a stunning view or natural sight. Yet in Iceland, you can reach powerful waterfalls and bubbling hot springs with little to no effort at all.

Many are located right on the side of the road, which makes Iceland a wonderful destination for families with children and hikers of all skill levels.

WHAT TO SEE

The Blue Lagoon is the most popular first stop in Iceland since it lies just 10 minutes from the airport. The luxurious hot spring experience is complete with facial masks and wellness drinks, making it the perfect place to relax after your long flight.

I also recommend the new Sky Lagoon, which boasts a Game of Thrones-esque infinity pool overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Make sure to purchase the seven-step spa ritual package that gives you access to an architecturally stunning sauna with ocean views.

Now, it’s time to hit the road.

The Golden Circle is a popular self-drive route that starts in Reykjavik that passes through three iconic sites, namely Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall.

Next, venture eastward toward two stunning waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss, which you can walk behind, and the thundering Skógafoss just 30 minutes away. Pro tip: Bring a rain jacket!

Vik is a charming Icelandic town where you can grab food, go souvenir shopping, and photograph the black sand at Reynisfjara Beach.

Drive further east to Jökulsárlón, also known as the Glacier Lagoon. There, you can marvel at the towering chunks of ice floating in the turquoise lagoon. Walk over to Diamond Beach, whose name comes from the glittering pieces of ice thrown about the black sand.

WHERE TO EAT:

Believe it or not, one of the nation’s must-try dishes is a hot dog. Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, a food stand whose name translates to “the best hot dog in town,” is the place to go. Order it like the locals do — with everything on it, including crispy deep-fried onions, raw onions, sweet brown mustard, and a creamy remoulade.

A promising meal can be found Dill Restaurant, the first in Iceland to receive a Michelin star for its fresh, sustainably-minded Nordic cooking.

For a traditional Icelandic meal like rye bread with smoked salmon and mashed fish, head to Café Loki in downtown Reykjavik.

While you’re on the road, it’s common to grab bite at a gas station. Many are ultra-modern and have sit-down restaurants teeming with locals and travelers. The fish & chips at N1 is a personal favorite.

WHERE TO DRINK:

Prikið is one of the oldest bars in Iceland and has live music on the weekends. If you stick around long enough, you’ll witness the local watering hole transform into a cafe in the morning.

WHERE TO STAY

You’ll likely stay in a few different hotels during your Iceland road trip. Airbnbs are also a great option, with several unique farm stays and remote cabins available around the Ring Road.

A particularly stunning option is the Panorama Glass Lodge in South Iceland. The all-glass cabins give you a front-row seat to the northern lights in the winter and the midnight sun in the summer, which can be enjoyed from inside the cabin or your private hot tub.

All photos by Carla Vianna.