Iceland is known for its stunning natural beauty and unique cultural heritage, which are captivating with their contrasts. People often refer to it as the “Land of Fire and Ice” because of its dramatic landscapes, which include volcanoes, glaciers, geysers, and hot springs. Discover the lesser-known treasures for an unforgettable Icelandic experience. Here are some of the hidden gems in Iceland you don’t want to miss.
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1. Dynjandi Waterfall
One of Iceland’s most stunning undiscovered gems, Dynjandi Waterfall, also known as Fjallfoss, is located in the isolated Westfjords region. The word “Dynjandi” means “thunderous” or “resounding” in Icelandic, which perfectly describes the majestic grandeur of this waterfall. Dynjandi is a collection of waterfalls that tumble down a multi-tiered rock face, providing an astounding display of unmatched beauty.
The term Dynjandi is frequently associated by tourists with the main waterfall, which is the most noticeable and impressive. The establishment of Iceland and the difficulties that the first settlers encountered have had a significant impact on Dynjandi’s history. The waterfall was once a significant landmark and a navigational aid for fishermen and sailors along the coast. From a distance, mariners might be guided safely to the shore by its distinctive look and the sound of its roaring waves.
As the number of tourists visiting Iceland has increased, Dynjandi has begun to attract the attention of those looking for uncommon and undiscovered locations. Dynjandi is a treasured destination among those who make the effort to travel there because of its remote position and breathtaking beauty.
2. Vestrahorn
Vestrahorn, a stunning natural wonder situated on Iceland’s southeast coast, is frequently referred to as “Batman Mountain” because of its imposing and pointed summits. This magnificent mountain range rises sharply from the Stokksnes Peninsula’s black sand coastline, striking a captivating contrast with the surroundings. Vestrahorn’s sharp peaks are a photographer’s paradise, especially at sunrise and sunset when the sky’s warm hues create a mystical glow upon the mountains.
For anyone looking to capture the unadulterated beauty of Iceland’s wildness, this location is a must-visit due to the interplay of light and shadows, which gives the image an ethereal appearance. The area’s wild beauty is further enhanced by the neighboring black sand dunes and the Atlantic Ocean’s pounding waves. Vestrahorn is a fantastic place for peaceful reflection or a leisurely stroll along the beach because of its distant location, which guarantees a sense of solitude.
For those who value the magnificence of nature and are anxious to capture its majesty with various cameras, Vestrahorn provides a variety of experiences. Vestrahorn cordially invites you to immerse yourself in its alluring appeal, regardless of whether you’re a photographer, an adventurer, or someone looking for solace.
3. Vestmannaeyjar Islands
The Vestmannaeyjar Islands, known as the Westman Islands, are a fascinating archipelago off the south coast of Iceland. These islands have a dramatic history and stunning scenery. The most famous of these islands is Heimaey, which was irrevocably changed by the 1973 Eldfell volcano eruption. As islanders battled to protect their homes from lava flows, this eruption gave rise to an intriguing human and environmental drama.
For lovers of the environment and history, the Vestmannaeyjar Islands are a paradise. To understand more about the effects of the eruption and the community’s resilience, visitors can explore the Eldheimar Museum. Puffins and other seabirds can be seen nesting along the cliffs, which is exciting for birdwatchers. The islands also provide trekking possibilities where you may take in expansive views of the local volcanoes and water. The Vestmannaeyjar Islands offer a glimpse of Iceland’s varied and resilient spirit with their distinctive combination of geological marvels, cultural legacy, and tight-knit society.
4. Seydisfjordur
Seydisfjordur, a tranquil jewel nestled on Iceland’s east coast, is a place where time seems to slow down. It looks like a scene from a fairy tale, with its bright cottages dotting the fjord’s edge and a backdrop of untamed mountains. Due to its vibrant creative culture and quaint shops, the town has a bohemian and artistic air. Seydisfjordur’s heart pulses to the beat of its distinctive culture. Early Norwegian settlers’ contributions effortlessly meld with Icelandic customs to create a fusion of the ancient and new. The town’s recognizable blue church, set amidst the colorful surroundings, is a representation of its alluring allure.
As you stroll through the streets of Seydisfjordur, you’ll come across surprises around every bend, whether it’s a quaint café serving recently baked goods or an art gallery displaying regional talent.
The village provides endless inspiration and is a sanctuary for both artists and environmental enthusiasts. Seydisfjordur transforms into a location where the bustle of the outside world is left behind as the fog creeps in over the fjord and the tranquil echoes of nature embrace you. This hidden treasure in Iceland invites you to relax, explore, and connect with its tranquil beauty, whether you’re gazing up at the surrounding peaks or taking a leisurely stroll along the water’s edge.
5. Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
A stunning natural creation called Fjarárgljfur Canyon is hidden close to the quaint town of Vik. The Fjará River carved the canyon over millions of years, creating a breathtaking sight of soaring rock walls and a meandering river below. The play of light and shadow highlights the ethereal beauty of the countryside and creates a strange atmosphere. A trail that runs along the edge of the canyon enables you to view the beautiful scene from a variety of perspectives. You might even see some Arctic plants clinging to the rocky walls.
Fjarárgljfur is a truly hidden gem for nature lovers and explorers seeking a connection with Iceland’s untainted and unadulterated beauty since it is a serene location that inspires reflection and exploration.
6. Surtshellir Lava Cave
Surtshellir Lava Cave, located in Iceland’s rugged wilderness, holds fascinating geological and historical significance. Formed around 9000 years ago during a volcanic eruption, it is one of the largest lava caves in the country, stretching for approximately 1.5 kilometers (0.93 miles). Named after Surtr, a powerful fire giant from Norse mythology, Surtshellir has captivated the imaginations of locals and visitors for centuries. Surtshellir Lava Cave is considered one of Iceland’s hidden gems due to its remote wilderness, geological marvel, historical significance, and connection to Icelandic history and folklore.
Highlights and unique features include Surtshellir Chamber, Stefánshellir Cave, Lava Falls, and Viking-era carvings and inscriptions. Exploring the cave’s depths offers adventure, educational value, and solitude. Activities to do at Surtshellir Lava Cave include cave exploration, photography, historical exploration, seasonal activities, and respecting nature. Visitors can embark on guided tours, capture the otherworldly beauty of the cave’s formations, and explore Viking carvings and inscriptions. The cave’s unique beauty varies depending on the season, and visitors are encouraged to leave no trace and respect the fragile cave ecosystem to ensure its preservation for future generations.
7. The Arctic Henge
The unique and relatively recent improvement to Iceland’s cultural and historical environment is known as the “Arctic Henge,” or “Heimskautsgerði” in Icelandic. It is situated in the small community of Raufarhöfn, which is tucked away in the country’s extreme northeast, just a short distance from the Arctic Circle. A farmer and artist from Raufarhöfn by the name of Haukur Halldórsson came up with the concept for the Arctic Henge. Haukur set out on a goal to build a contemporary monument that would not only respect Iceland’s rich cultural past but also function as an astronomical calendar, inspired by the ancient Norse mythology and fascinated by the celestial movements.
Since 2004, the Arctic Henge’s construction has been a labor of love involving both domestic and foreign volunteers. The structure of the landmark, which is made up of enormous stone columns, is reminiscent of the prehistoric stone circles found all over Europe, including Stonehenge in England.
8. Hornstrandir Nature Reserve
Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, located in the northwest corner of Iceland’s Westfjords, is a wonderful haven for anyone seeking unspoiled beauty and seclusion. This concealed wilderness gives a rare chance to be in touch with nature in its most unadulterated state because there are no permanent people and it can only be reached by boat.
The rough terrain of Hornstrandir is a mosaic of deep fjords, soaring cliffs, hilly terrain, and lush meadows. The absence of contemporary infrastructure guarantees a pristine setting where wildlife can grow unhindered. Among the many creatures that live in this pristine area are seals, seagulls, and Arctic foxes.
The solitude you feel as you travel the trails turns out to be a benefit rather than a problem. Whether it’s a hidden waterfall, a riot of wildflowers, or a sweeping view of the limitless sea, every step leads to a new discovery. The tranquility that permeates the landscapes is the only thing that can compare to the breathtaking views.
9. Landmannalaugar
In Iceland’s mountains, Landmannalaugar is a real geological marvel. Its name, which means “the people’s pools,” is appropriate given the region’s multicolored rhyolite mountains and natural hot springs. This distant paradise attracts hikers and environmental enthusiasts because of its brilliant orange, pink, and green hues that contrast with the harsh surroundings. The Laugavegur Trail offers a unique hike through a variety of landscapes, including black sand dunes, obsidian farms, and glacier valleys, beginning or ending at Landmannalaugar. The seclusion of Landmannalaugar adds to its charm, making the trip here seem like a closely guarded secret. It’s a location where you can escape the outside world and get back in touch with nature.
Iceland is a country that is incredibly diverse and breathtaking, and its hidden gems invite people who have an adventurous spirit and a thirst for the extraordinary. Treasures that whisper tales of nature’s artistry and human history can be found off the beaten path. These treasures hold the promise of authenticity and amazement, from the bright rhyolite mountains of Landmannalaugar to the unspoiled wilderness of Hornstrandir. It involves going on hikes through seemingly dreamlike landscapes, relaxing in natural springs that nurture the body and spirit, and following in the footsteps of a past that is just as enthralling as the environment itself.
Video Guide: 9 Hidden Gems in Iceland
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Travel Resources for Planning a Trip to The Hidden Gems in Iceland
To make planning a trip to these hidden gems in Iceland easier, we included some of our recommended travel resources below. You can search and find the best flights, transportation options, hotels to stay in, tours/activities, and things you can do at each destination during your trip to Iceland.
Flights:
Agoda: Search thousands of destinations around the world & quickly compare prices to find amazing deals on the best flights.
CheapOAir: You can find airline tickets, hotel rooms, rental cars, and vacation packages all on one site!
Kiwi.com: What we like about Kiwi is the fact that they are able to create combinations of flight, train, and bus tickets and offer them in a single itinerary. Also, Kiwi has what they called “Nomad” which helps you find the best way of visiting multiple destinations, saving you time and money.
JetRadar: You can search and compare airfares from 726 airlines and dozens of travel agencies and systems.
Hotels:
Agoda: Agoda is one of the world’s largest online travel accommodation platforms with a network of over 2,000,000 vacation rentals and hotels worldwide.
Hotellook: They have more than 250,000 hotels in 205 countries, working with data from more than 10 online booking systems, such as Booking.com, Agoda.com, Hotels.com, Expedia, and others.
Transportations:
Airport Transfers: KiwiTaxi, Viator
Train: EuRail, Trainline or RailEurope
Bus: Flixbus: Very affordable (as low as $6) and convenient way to transfer between cities in Europe.
Car Rentals: AutoEurope, EconomyBookings, or GetTransfer (transfers & car rentals with a personal driver)
Bike Rental: BikesBooking (Bikes & scooter rentals)
Transportation Comparison: Omio (search, compare, and book tickets for buses, trains, and flights all in one site)
Tours & Activities:
TakeWalks (WalkofItaly): This is our favorite site for walking tours & day trips.
Tiqets: Great site for entrance tickets. It offers directly bookable, instantly available, and completely mobile tickets for museums, shows, and attractions all over the world.
Musement: They have good activities and tours in Italy and Spain, also many great day trips you can choose from.
GetYourGuide: A large number of tours, excursions, and other travel activities
Viator: The largest one. It has everything from tours, attractions, shore excursions, and private guides in over 2,700 destinations worldwide. It also has many transportation and transfer options and some unique experiences we didn’t find anywhere else.
Need help planning a trip to the hidden gems in Iceland?
Want to plan a trip to the hidden gems in Iceland but don’t know where to begin? If you find this type of trip planning to be too complicated to plan on your own, we’re here to help!
At MultiCityTrips, multi-destination travel and complicated itineraries such as a multi-city trip to these hidden gems in Iceland are our specialties. Contact us today to learn more about how one of our experienced travel experts/destination specialists can personalize your multi-city vacations at the best price.
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