Iceland

Overview

The Republic of Iceland is a Nordic island nation located at North Atlantic. It is the most sparsely populated country in Europe. It is a volcanic and geologically active country with hot springs and lava fields. It is widely called “the land of fire and ice.” Within the country is a sand and lava field plateau, mountains and glaciers.

The country recorded a population of 364,134 in 2020 and covers an area of 103,000 km2.

Its capital and largest city is Reykjavik. It is the nethermost capital city in the whole world.

Pictured above, the capital, Reykjavík (“Bay of Smokes”)

History

The country became a self-governing country in 1918 under the Danish rule. The British forced invaded Iceland in 1940.

The United States intervened in the defence of Iceland in 1941. Iceland had signed a Union Treaty with Denmark which ran out in 1943 since Denmark was still occupied by Nazi Germany.

Iceland abolished their ties with Denmark in 1944 and became a republic.

It joined NATO in 1944.

Food & culture

The country’s culture has existed since the 12th century. It is demonstrated through activities such as weaving, smith of silver and wood carving.

The crops grown in the country include hay, potatoes, cucumber, strawberries, cauliflower, rutabaga and cereals.

The popular dishes in the country are skyr, lamb, fermented shark, hot dogs and puffin.

Wildlife

Common wildlife animals include Arctic fox, mink, mice, rats, wasps, snakes, reindeer and polar bears.

Festivals & events

The main events/festivals in the country are the Budapest International Circus Festival, the Hungarian Formula 1 Grand Prix, the Budapest Spring Music Festival, the Valley of Magic Festival, the Danube Carnival, the Koros Valley Folk Arts Festival, and the Budapest National Gallop.

Things to see

The Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa in a lava field at the southwest part of the country.

The Northern lights are experienced in Iceland from mid-August to mid-April.

The Great Geysir in the country was the first one in the world to be described through print and the first recognized in modern Europe.

Other must visit places are Askja, Thorsmork National Park, Vatnajokull Nationala Park and Hallgrimskirja.

Interesting facts

The country has some of the most active volcanoes in the world with large glaciers. The volcanoes are unique foe one can walk inside the chambers.

Reykjavik is the northernmost capital city in the world.

The official language is Icelandic.

Majority of the population in Iceland are members of Lutheran State Church.

City guides

Cities & towns I’ve visited

Famous hikes in Iceland

Laugavegur Trail

Distance: 55 km
Time: 3 to 4 days
Best time: Late June to early September

How to do it: From the colourful hills of Landmannalaugar to the valley of Þórsmörk, staying in huts that need booking well ahead, or camping. Buses run to both ends in summer.

Run a marathon in Iceland

Reykjavik Marathon

Reykjavik · usually August

Held on Culture Night in August, with long daylight and coastal views over the bay.

Dates move from year to year, so check the race website before you book.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Iceland

1 of 3 visited. See every site I've been to.

My photos from Iceland

March 2020 Land Of The Northern Lights Cruise

South, Vesturland, Langjökull

Whole trip gallery

Plan your trip to Iceland

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Neighbours

Iceland has no land borders with other countries.