Iceland might seem remote, but from the UK, it’s surprisingly accessible - just a three-hour flight and an hour’s time difference. With budget airlines offering competitive prices, it’s an easy trip and if you have the time, you can even take a vehicle via Denmark and the Faroes. My first visit over 30 years ago was memorable, if only for the sheer expense. By 2008, the Icelandic krona depreciated significantly, making the country more affordable - still pricey, but comparable to other Scandinavian destinations.
Puffins are common on the south coast
International visitors to Iceland have surged, from 211,000 in 1995 to over 2.3 million in 2024. The great news is that, despite the increase in tourists, there’s still plenty of space. Most visitors focus on the popular sites in the south-west, but those who venture around the entire island are in for a treat. The landscape offers breathtaking views of lava fields, waterfalls, and iceberg-strewn lakes—an unforgettable experience.
Lava erupting on the Reykjanes peninsula
Our trip, just after COVID restrictions were lifted, was perfect for escaping to fresh air with only light restrictions. Within hours of landing, we picked up our rental car and checked into a functional Keflavik motel. The next day, we drove to Grindavik, where we trekked for just over an hour to witness lava erupting from a volcano. After years of no travel, it was an awe-inspiring sight and a privilege to witness such raw natural power.
The ice tunnel in Reykjavik museum
That afternoon, we visited Reykjavik’s impressive museum, complete with an ice tunnel that the kids loved. Iceland is one of the safest places for families, with many locations offering free entry for children with an adult, making it an ideal destination for those traveling as a family.
Accommodation options are varied, from remote cabins and yurts to farm stays, with numerous booking apps to help find the perfect place. We chose a self-catering approach for our two-week trip, keeping costs in check. Many accommodations offer access to hot springs or hot tubs - luxuries that are a must in Iceland. For campers, there are great value options, though it's essential to prepare for the wind and bring a strong tent!
The hot springs near Myvatn
For some the famous Blue Lagoon near the airport is a must-see, but it can be expensive. We preferred the Secret Lagoon or the Myvatn hot springs in the north of the island. No matter where you stay, Iceland’s natural beauty is never far away. Waterfalls are often just a short walk from the ‘Ring Road’ that circles the island, with Dettifoss being the largest and most powerful in Europe. Skógafoss in the south is one of the biggest waterfalls in Iceland, with a drop of some 60 meters and further along the coast Seljalandsfoss where a trail leads behind the water, a unique experience.
The raw power of Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall.
Other highlights include Black Sand Beach in the south, where stunning lava formations meet a dangerous surf. My personal favourite are the Eastern Fjords. Here, the road winds through cliffs with little traffic, offering ever-changing vistas and a sense of solitude, a perfect escape into nature.