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The history of Iceland spans only 1,100 years, from settling of the county in the 9th century to the modern people of today. I had a personal opportunity to travel to Iceland in July of 2018 and it immediately became one of my favourite destinations. I can’t wait to return!
It is often said that Iceland was wrongly named as it has far warmer temperatures than this name might suggest (13C average high in July, season of the midnight Sun). Well, the name was given to the country by Flóki Vilgerðarson, a sailor who experienced a particularly icy winter one year and thought that Iceland would be a fitting name. Once home to the Vikings, Iceland boasts a fascinating and diverse history. If you are visiting this magnificent country for the first time, it would help to understand its geographic and political history. Although the country has a small population, it still has many stories to tell. Its unique position and varying climate all contribute to its history.
The Island itself is a mere 1400 kms travelling along the coast and features Mother Nature at her most powerful. Visits to one of the largest geothermal power plants in the world, or the Volcano and Earthquake Exhibition, along with once in a lifetime whale watching, Atlantic Puffins or visiting an ice cave, are sure to amaze. With the largest glacier in Europe, Iceland is a glacier paradise! Lake Jokurlsarlon, where the scenes from the James Bond movie, “Die Another Day”, were filmed offers the opportunity for an exciting boat trip through the icebergs. Icebergs, the size of football fields, break off from the glacier and spill into the lagoon. Situated in the Mid-Atlantic Rift, it is no surprise that Iceland is home to so much geothermal activity. In fact, it boasts over 200 geothermal hotspots including volcanoes and geysers. The Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most popular attractions, a natural geothermal pool in the middle of a large and dramatic lava field and an oasis that owes it existence to a nearby geothermal power plant!
With Hanover Holidays, all the details are taken care of, from air flights and airport transfers, to special features and included visits. Our local guide will share unique stories and take you behind the scenes along your journey.
