Iceland review - 2016, Page 117

114 ICELAND REVIEW ICELAND REVIEW 115
DRIVING AROUND ICELAND SPECIAL PROMOTION
The Reykjanes peninsula is home to a striking, dramatic
landscape that features lava fields stretching for kilome-
ters, hot springs, volcanic craters, geothermal waters and
lava caves. The terrain is rugged and even desert-like in some
areas, with most of the ground covered in moss, heather and
lichen growing on lava stones. Reykjavík Excursions offers a tour
of the region, The Wonders of Reykjanes & Blue Lagoon, that
includes stops at two geothermal sites, views of dramatic coast-
lines in the south and visits to welcoming towns like Eyrarbakki
and Grindavík.
GEOTHERMAL SITES
The Krísuvík and Gunnuhver geothermal areas are popular
among geology buffs and hikers. Gurgling mud pools amid the
yellow, red, orange clay-like earth, are intertwined with dancing
steam and hot springs. The area gives you a great sense of Ice-
land’s raw, natural geothermal energy that powers much of the
island. Take some time to roam, but guides will direct you to
be sure to stay within the designated roped-off areas to avoid
getting burned by spray and steam.
Travelers will also get to see on the tour the legendary
Strandakirkja church, dramatic waves crashing by the
Reykjanesviti lighthouse, and guests will get to walk on the
‘Bridge Between the Continents’ which connects the American
and Eurasian tectonic plates.
SOAK IN THE BLUE LAGOON
For those who would like to visit the Blue Lagoon, the bus
makes a stop at the world-famous spa. Visitors from around the
world travel to soak in the glorious, healing waters and dream-
like atmosphere. The naturally-heated water, which ranges from
37-40°C (98-104°F), is heavenly at any time of year. Spending
a couple of hours relaxing in the milky waters of the outdoor
lagoon is a must on any visit to Iceland. The water is not deep
and the bottom is covered with white silica mud, the result of a
natural process of re-condensation. It’s common to see visitors
cover their faces with the mud, as it does wonders for your skin.
There are also two steam baths on the property, as well as a
dry sauna and massage area. A number of spa treatments are
also available. The entrance fee is ISK 6,400 and it’s necessary to
book in advance. You can rent a towel at the front desk, along
with swimsuits and bathing caps.
The eight-hour Wonders of Reykjanes & Blue Lagoon tour
is available year round and includes the bus fare and guided
tour. Admission to the Blue Lagoon is not included and must
be booked separately. The tour costs ISK 12,500 and is free for
children under the age of 11.
re.is
Spend the day exploring the unique landscape of Reykjanes.
The Wonders of
Reykjanes
The Wonders of Reykjanes