Iceland was like nothing I’d ever seen in my life. It felt like another world. There’s so much to love—the waterfalls, the beaches, the glaciers, the countryside, and the people. Just when you think you are in a meditative trance with the tranquility of the meadows and wildflowers, you turn the bend, and your heart beats fast at the magnificence of the glacier or a gurgling waterfall.

I invite you on this journey with me as I highlight a few striking memories from this life-changing vacation. Iceland has the largest glaciers and the world’s most active volcanoes. I’ve been on road trips before, and then there is the one that took us around Southern Iceland, which felt like no one else was on the road. Imagine you are on this open road, your favorite music playing, and soak it all in.

A Waterfall Lover’s Dream Vacation

Whether you catch glimpses of cascading waterfalls during your scenic drive, awaken to the soothing sounds just steps away, or stumble upon them while exploring on foot, this vacation is a paradise for waterfall enthusiasts. There are more than 10,000 waterfalls in Iceland, fed by ice, snow, and glaciers.

At Faxafoss Waterfall, a fisherman enjoys his fresh catch.

Skógafoss waterfall

Legend says that a Viking settler hid a chest behind the falls and the first man who goes there will find the treasure.

Hiking

My favorite hike was the climb to Dyrhólaey, which offers breathtaking views in all directions.

Höfn

Hiking around Höfn, where the only sound you hear is silence. Höfn means harbor and is surrounded on three sides by the sea.

Glaciers

As I admired the glaciers and their unparalleled beauty, I hoped that these thinning glaciers would remain for future generations.

For those who want to learn more about these glaciers, The Secret Lives of Glaciers by M Jackson is a fascinating look at the impact of glacier change on communities. The author lived in Hofn and interviewed Icelanders to understand the implications.

DIamond Beach

This awe-inspiring black sand beach features glistening icebergs that have washed ashore. The translucent ice shimmers on the surface.

Geysir

The word Geyser is from Icelandic and means to gush. Geysir has repeatedly become dormant throughout its history and has been revived by earthquakes.

Blue Lagoon

A geothermal spa, the visit to the Blue Lagoon was a unique experience. The blue waters are supposed to be rich in minerals and have healing properties.

The beautiful city of Reykjavik

This northernmost capital city in the world is unique, bustling with artsy museums and cafes, and so walkable. 60 percent of Iceland’s population lives in this city in the land of the midnight sun. It was fantastic to experience the 24 hours of daylight when the sun never fully sets, and the sky sparkles with colors into the early morning hours.