Reykjavík Grapevine - 01.05.2018, Side 18

The Reykjavík Grapevine
Best of Iceland 2018
18 BEST OF ICELAND 2018
South
Floating glaciers and steamy hikes
Must-See Spot
Þórsmörk
South Coast, Route 249
This tucked away valley is blocked to normal cars by the Krossá riv-
er, meaning it's determined hikers who bus or jeep their way there.
The mountains are purple and blue, there are hiking trails to suit
all abilities, hot pools to soak in, and camping huts to rest beneath
the fresh air. “It's just one of the most beautiful spots on earth,”
said the panel. With all kinds of peaks and nooks and crannies,
the area is full of natural beauty and folkloric significance, with all
kinds of historical landmarks and spiritual tales attached to the
trails and region. It has a very special feeling. Map square: I4
Runner Up
Svínafellsjökull
Vatnajökull National Park
After a bumpy drive up to the viewpoint,
you literally arrive at the edge of the
glacier. Sitting quietly up on the hill with
a stunning view over the rich blue ice
of the glacier tongue, this place brings
a sense of true zen and an endless
feeling of contemplation. N2
Runner Up
Jökulsárlón
Vatnajökull National Park
This icy lagoon is a true wonder. The
effects of climate change have been
very visible in recent years and the size
of the icebergs has greatly diminished,
but it's worth seeing while one has the
chance. Take public or group transport
to reduce environmental impact. Q2
Best Bathing Spot
Seljavallalaug
South Coast, Route 242
This run down, barely serviced pool is
located in a wild valley with natural hot
water, built right into the mountainside.
It’s a wildly unique Icelandic moment.
Be warned, there are no facilities, and
it gets crowded in the summer these
days, but go late on a glorious bright
summer night and it can't be beat. “Just
look at the location – mountain babes
everywhere!” said the panel. It’s about a
fifteen-minute easy hike from the road
and it’s not for the prudish or faint of
heart, but the payoff is incredible. I5
Runners Up
The Secret Lagoon
Hvammsvegur, Flúðir
Formerly for locals only, this delightful
little man-made lagoon that feels like
swimming in a hot freshwater lake. The
facilities are modern and beautiful,
tucked behind a bunch of friendly
greenhouses. “I just grab a mini Prosec-
co and a bunch of pool noodles and get
super chill.” It even has its own geyser
going off every few minutes. H2
Landmannalaugar
Fjallabak Nature Reserve
On a late summer night, there is nothing
like bathing in this remote geothermal
pool. While it can be overcrowded at
times, if you're willing to stay up late
you'll be able to find a quiet moment to
take a swim. Pro tip: the warmest parts
are where the two streams flow into
the pool near the back. K2
Best Hike
Fimmvörðuháls
Skógafoss-Þórsmörk
This intense day-long hike takes you
past countless waterfalls into the High-
lands, across desert, fresh lava, snow
where two glaciers meet, and down
into the Þórsmörk valley. The sights are
magnificent at every step and packed
with moments of genuine exhilaration.
It's not for the novice, as it has difficult
patches that could prove to be a strug-
gle to those with physical limitations or
severe fears of heights. It's challenging
and only open in peak summer, but it's
simply unforgettable. J5-J4
Runners Up
Bláhnúkur
Friðland að Fjallabakki
Rising to 940m, this hike is fairly straight-
forward and anyone with a moderate level
of fitness should be able to climb to the
top with relative ease. After taking in the
breathtaking views, you can continue on
down the other side and loop around back
to the huts via the steaming geothermal
vents and vibrant moss-covered lava
fields of Laugahraun.. K2
Þórsmörk, South Coast, Route 249
This huge area of hiking trails encom-
passes a number of hikes from short
climbs to multi-day adventures. Some
circuits are relaxed and low impact
for inexperienced hikers with limited
movement. The area also includes a
beautiful campground with cabins, a
hot pot, and summer yoga classes. I4