Iceland 2018

A destination chosen for convenience.

We decided to go to Iceland because it was accessible via a non-stop flight from both NYC and Seattle where our kids were living, as they both had direct flights. We had no idea how much we would all fall in love with the raw beauty and amazing adventures we experienced there during our Iceland travel.

We stayed at an Airbnb just down the hill from the famous Hallgrímskirkja church in Reykjavik, Iceland, but we spent nearly every day of the trip traveling throughout the Western and Southern regions of this stunning country, taking in all the natural beauty. We would adventure about 2 hours away from Reykjavík each day in our rental car, with lots of stops along the way. Although the 2+ hours back in the wind was a tough drive, we saw many of the unbelievable landscapes Iceland has to offer.

Iceland gave us the chance to do some truly crazy things! Maybe one of the craziest was ice climbing on the Solheimajokull glacier, where we were given ice axes to help us climb out of a crevice in the glacier - but that was only after we'd rappelled down more than 100'! A few days later, we all put on wetsuits to snorkel in the Silfra fissure, which separates the tectonic plates. The water was crystal clear and ice cold at only 35 degrees! Both of these days are ones we still talk about!

On our adventures through Iceland, the waterfalls and beaches were some of the greatest sights. Iceland should be the land of landscape and waterfalls! One of the most amazing natural sites we've seen was the gorgeous black sand beach and basalt columns near Vik. The day we visited, the wind was howling, and the sand was driving huge waves onto the beach in a scene of amazing power and force. Another adventure on the peninsula had us climbing up a gorge filled with snow and birds letting us know we were not welcome!

The amazing natural and raw beauty of Iceland makes it one of our favorite places we've visited. If you ask us about our favorites, Iceland will always be on the list! The pictures from this trip will always be our favorites!!!

Experience thrilling Iceland adventures like ice climbing on the stunning Solheimajokull glacier. Marvel at the raw beauty of the Black Sand Beach (Reynisfjara) and discover amazing waterfalls that dot the landscape. For a unique experience, try snorkeling in the Silfra at Thingvellir Park, a highlight of any Iceland travel itinerary. Don't miss the chance to relax in the famous Blue Lagoon, and enjoy picnic lunches with PB&Js during your explorations. And for a fun twist, there's always chocolate soup (it's an inside joke - just ask!) while you soak in the beauty of Reykjavik, Iceland.

Lodging: Airbnb (on Skólavörðustígur street in Reykjavik, Iceland) offers a convenient stay for those looking to explore the city. 

Transportation: It's advisable to rent a car for your Iceland travel, but be prepared for tough driving conditions, as it can be quite windy!

Restaurants: For meals, consider picking up groceries to make breakfast and lunches, like PB&J, or enjoy some traditional skyr yogurt. However, dining out can be pricey, with most restaurants costing $$$$.

Excursions: Make the most of your Iceland adventures by trying a Glacier Walk & Ice Climbing experience with Icelandic Mountain Guides, or snorkel in the Silfra with Arctic Adventures. Don't miss a visit to the famous Blue Lagoon for relaxation!