Iceland review - 2014, Síða 100

98 ICELAND REVIEW
south.is
höfn – realM of VaTnajökull
Set against the awesome backdrop of Vatnajökull, the largest gla-
cier in Europe, Höfn is the ideal base for exploring the southeast.
Hornafjörður municipality is heaven for mountain hiking and climb-
ing. Local guides take you on glacier tours on foot or by vehicle
and diverse walks and tours on the lowlands. You’ll find Vatnajökull
National Park visitor centers in Höfn and Skaftafell, from where
rangers offer daily free walks of the park’s southern area. Famed
for its lobster, Höfn’s restaurants have mouthwatering menus. The
lively harbor area is worth a visit, as are the town’s museums, the
new pool and a nine-hole golf course with a view of the glacier.
Accommodation of all kinds is available. visitvatnajokull.is
kirkjuBæjarklausTur – hunTing for Treasures
In the heart of South Iceland lies the scenic village of Kirkjubæ-
jarklaustur—Klaustur for short—the site of an ancient convent.
The region, part of Katla Geopark, is famous for its geology and
extraordinary landscape shaped by volcanic eruptions and the
glacial river Skaftá. Locatify SmartGuides are available for free: a
guided tour of a 20-km (12-mile) trail highlighting the area’s his-
tory and geology, an app allowing users to experience the disas-
trous 1783-1784 Laki eruption and a treasure hunt with fun facts
for the whole family. Also, by using a treasure map, travelers can
collect samples of sand, moss, etc. in a special glass jar and create
their own souvenir. visitklaustur.is
Vík – WonDers WiThin reaCh
The charming seaside town of Vík, two-and-a-half hours south-
east of Reykjavík, welcomes visitors in all seasons. As part of Katla
Geopark, Vík stands in the shadow of the Katla volcano, lurking
under the massive Mýrdalsjökull icecap. The black-sand beach of
Reynisfjara with a view of the wild ocean and the spectacular rock
formations of Reynisdrangar, have long since become iconic of
the region. Other famous attractions include the arch of Dyrhó-
laey promontory and its rich birdlife, as well as the easily-accessi-
ble glacial tongue, Sólheimajökull. Guests are offered everything
from low-cost sleeping bag accommodation to modern rooms
with a private bath. Three local restaurants are open year-round,
as are all the necessary tourist services. visitvik.is
SouTH iCeland –
volCaniC Wonderland
Shaped by glaciers and volcanoes, the spectacular landscape of the south is an attraction in
all seasons. Hike a pristine white glacier, watch the waves crash against a black-sand beach
and join a fun treasure hunt to discover south iceland’s natural wonders.
Travel
reynisdrangar near vík.
hoffellslón lagoon near höfn.
Crater laki near kirkjubæjarklaustur.