Sulla Strada dei Ghiacciai e dei Vulcani: Islanda in Libertà

About the destination: Reykjavik is not your typical capital city, it has no magnificent buildings, or a historic city centre or grand monuments, this city is much more than that. Iceland’s capital is different, full of life and very close to nature. Its location, at the fringe of the Atlantic Ocean, between two fjords and surrounded by a lunar volcanic framework, makes the city, which name literally means Bay of Smokes, incomparably special. The world’s northernmost capital is the perfect place for outdoor and wildlife lovers. Surrounded by sea, whale watching is one of the most popular touristic activities. The city has plenty of open spaces: parks, pedestrian areas, a lake situated next to the city hall and Nauthólsvik geothermal beach just 15 min away from the city centre. Throughout the city there are 7 municipal geothermal pools where locals go to socialize and relax after work. Other activities like cycling, hiking, horse riding, sailing and fishing can all be enjoyed on the doorsteps of the capital. Aside from all its natural wonders, Reykjavik has always something to offer. It is a cosmopolitan and dynamic city full of museums, art galleries and cosy coffee shops. Its nightlife is exciting and outrageous, during a night out, it seems locals are making up for the prohibition on beer that was in force till 1989 and nightspots tend to stay open until the early hours of the morning. During the day, the capital is a much more relaxed place, with its trim colourful houses, rubbish-free streets and an easygoing pace of life. Reykjavik is considered the one of the cleanest, greenest and safest cities in the world. Getting lost in this city is almost impossible: Hallgrímskirkja church and Öskjuhlíð hill are visible from most places in the city centre and are essential landmarks for orientation. Reykjavik is dynamic, creative, modern, cosy and very special. Its peculiar personality and magnetic surroundings will make you agree that there’s no better city in the world.

About the destination: The village of Vík is situated on the island's main ring road, about 180 km by road southeast of Reykjavík. Vík í Mýrdal or simply Vík, as the locals call it, is a remote seafront village in the south of Iceland and is the southernmost village on the Icelandic mainland. The natural environment in Vík í Mýrdal is quite beautiful, with a bird-filled black sand beach, Mount Reynisfjall to the west, Hjörleifshöfði to the east and the Mýrdalsjökull glacier at the top of the mountainous area which is perfect for exploring the lovely trails.The village of Vík is located on the main ring road around the island, around 180 km (110 mi) by road southeast of Reykjavík.

About the destination: Hofn is the only urban nucleus that can be found after passing Kirkjubaejarklaustur. It is a gray town and not too attractive but it serves to stay overnight because of its proximity to the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon (78 km) and the great Vatnajokull. Hofn is situated on a peninsula in the south-east of Iceland and is surrounded by several small islands, the largest of which is Mikley, followed by Krókalátur and Hellir to the east of the city The name Hofn means port and is one of the few fishing ports in southern Iceland. In it, navigation has to be cautious due to the formation of sandbanks which must be dredged frequently to maintain a minimum depth of 7-8 meters. This port can be frozen during the harshest winter months. Hofn also has an airport that only domestic flights operate. It is located on the Ring Road, accessing the route 99. The most important cultural event of Hofn is the famous lobster festival which is held on the first weekend of July. Hofn contains several museums, including the Glacier Museum, the Museum of Folklore and the Nautical Museum among others. We spent the night in Hofn for two nights as we made a round trip to the south of Iceland (Iceland: Organizational Data). During our stay we took several walks through the streets, went to supermarkets, gas stations and dined in the restaurants of the port that were very close to our apartment, we could do little more after arriving in the village in the afternoon and with almost everything closed. The most remarkable thing about Hofn is the wild nature that surrounds it. I leave you some samples of landscapes near this town.

About the destination: Welcome to Eskifjörður, a serene fishing village nestled on the eastern shores of Iceland, surrounded by the majestic beauty of fjords and mountains. A hidden gem in the Eastfjords, Eskifjörður is an ideal destination for travelers seeking tranquility and a touch of Icelandic charm away from the bustling tourist spots. Begin your journey by exploring the picturesque harbor, where colorful fishing boats bob gently on the water, and the air is filled with the soothing sounds of the sea. Take a stroll along the marina and breathe in the fresh ocean air, or visit the Maritime Museum located in an old fisherman's hut to delve into the rich seafaring history of the area. Don't miss the opportunity to taste the local seafood, freshly caught and served in cozy restaurants that offer panoramic views of the stunning landscape. Adventure seekers will find Eskifjörður a haven for outdoor activities. Hiking enthusiasts can embark on trails that wind through the valley or ascend the nearby peaks for breathtaking vistas of the fjord. In the winter months, the region transforms into a snowy paradise, with opportunities for cross-country skiing and a chance to witness the magical Northern Lights dancing across the night sky. Eskifjörður is not just about natural beauty; it's also a place where culture and history intertwine. Visit the Randulf's Sea House, a well-preserved merchant's home from the 1890s that provides a glimpse into the life of Icelandic traders of the past. The town also boasts a vibrant arts scene, with local artisans creating unique crafts that reflect the spirit of this enchanting part of Iceland. Whether you're seeking peace and solitude, an active outdoor holiday, or a cultural experience, Eskifjörður is a destination that promises to captivate your heart and create memories that will last a lifetime.

About the destination: Akureyri is a town in northern Iceland. It is Iceland's second largest urban area and fourth largest municipality. Nicknamed the Capital of North Iceland, Akureyri is an important port and fishing centre. Akureyri is a very picturesque town with its location by a scenic fjord, eclectic building styles and streets winding their way through gorges. Spend some time walking around the town centre, see the impressive church and Listagilið (literally ""the art canyon""), home to a number of arts and crafts galleries and shops. The tranquil municipal botanical garden, Lystigarðurinn, is worth visiting, as are the several small museums dotted around town.

About the destination: Discover the enchanting beauty of Snaefellsnes, a breathtaking gem on the western coast of Iceland. Often referred to as 'Iceland in Miniature', Snaefellsnes encapsulates the diversity of Icelandic landscapes, all within a compact, accessible area. Start your journey in the lively town of Stykkisholmur, a perfect gateway to the peninsula. Here, you can explore vibrant, colourful buildings, a bustling harbour, and an array of charming cafes and restaurants. Don't forget to visit the Volcano Museum, an intriguing testament to Iceland's volcanic activity. Drive along the peninsula and become entranced by the drama of the landscape. From the black pebble beaches and the towering cliffs of Djupalonssandur, to the sprawling lava fields of Berserkjahraun, Snaefellsnes is a feast for the senses. One of the area's most iconic sights is the Snaefellsjokull glacier, an awe-inspiring spectacle that can be seen from miles around. Standing 1446 meters high, it is the crowning glory of the Snaefellsjokull National Park. Adventure seekers can even embark on a glacier hike, providing an unforgettable experience and stunning views across the peninsula. The peninsula is also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The Ytri-Tunga beach is a popular spot to watch seals frolicking in the surf, while the cliffs and shorelines are a birdwatcher's paradise, home to species such as puffins, guillemots, and kittiwakes. End your day by immersing yourself in Icelandic folklore at the Arnarstapi and Hellnar fishing villages, where you can learn about the peninsula's connection to the supernatural, including elves and trolls. For those seeking solitude under the starry skies, the peninsula is one of the best places in Iceland to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights. Snaefellsnes’s minimal light pollution makes it a prime spot for stargazing and capturing the ethereal beauty of the Aurora Borealis. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, wildlife encounters, or the tranquility of untouched landscapes, Snaefellsnes offers a unique Icelandic experience that you'll never forget. So, pack your bags, and let the magic of Snaefellsnes captivate and inspire you.

About the destination: Reykjavik is not your typical capital city, it has no magnificent buildings, or a historic city centre or grand monuments, this city is much more than that. Iceland’s capital is different, full of life and very close to nature. Its location, at the fringe of the Atlantic Ocean, between two fjords and surrounded by a lunar volcanic framework, makes the city, which name literally means Bay of Smokes, incomparably special. The world’s northernmost capital is the perfect place for outdoor and wildlife lovers. Surrounded by sea, whale watching is one of the most popular touristic activities. The city has plenty of open spaces: parks, pedestrian areas, a lake situated next to the city hall and Nauthólsvik geothermal beach just 15 min away from the city centre. Throughout the city there are 7 municipal geothermal pools where locals go to socialize and relax after work. Other activities like cycling, hiking, horse riding, sailing and fishing can all be enjoyed on the doorsteps of the capital. Aside from all its natural wonders, Reykjavik has always something to offer. It is a cosmopolitan and dynamic city full of museums, art galleries and cosy coffee shops. Its nightlife is exciting and outrageous, during a night out, it seems locals are making up for the prohibition on beer that was in force till 1989 and nightspots tend to stay open until the early hours of the morning. During the day, the capital is a much more relaxed place, with its trim colourful houses, rubbish-free streets and an easygoing pace of life. Reykjavik is considered the one of the cleanest, greenest and safest cities in the world. Getting lost in this city is almost impossible: Hallgrímskirkja church and Öskjuhlíð hill are visible from most places in the city centre and are essential landmarks for orientation. Reykjavik is dynamic, creative, modern, cosy and very special. Its peculiar personality and magnetic surroundings will make you agree that there’s no better city in the world.