Iceland - November 2025
I recently had the privilege of experiencing Iceland on a 5-day whirlwind tour hosted by the Iceland Travel team. A direct flight from Vancouver on Icelandair has you arriving in Iceland in less than 7 hours. It’s a relatively short flight that takes you to another, amazing world altogether.
Iceland is a country defined by dramatic contrasts—towering waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, serene fjords, and geothermal power—all blending into one of the most captivating destinations in the world. Travelling through Iceland offers a sense of purity and openness that is difficult to find anywhere else, with incredible scenery at every turn and an ease of navigation that makes even a short visit feel rich and rewarding.
A major highlight for visitors is the Golden Circle, a compact but powerful introduction to Iceland’s natural wonders. In a short, easily drivable loop, travellers experience Thingvellir National Park, where the tectonic plates of North America and Eurasia meet; the geothermal fields of Geysir, where Strokkur erupts every few minutes; and the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, cascading into a deep volcanic canyon. This iconic route showcases the essence of Iceland—geology, history, and breathtaking natural beauty condensed into a single day or as was for us due to our limited time, half a day.
Also located along this route is Friðheimar, a charming and unexpected highlight. Set in the countryside and powered entirely by geothermal energy, this greenhouse produces vibrant tomatoes year-round, even during the darkest winter months. Stepping inside feels like entering a warm, green oasis—rows of tall tomato plants stretching toward the ceiling, gentle humidity in the air, and the soft glow of sun lamps mimicking daylight. Guests can enjoy a unique dining experience surrounded by the very plants that supply the restaurant, with a menu centered around fresh, fragrant tomatoes: comforting tomato soup served with homemade bread, tomato cocktails, and even tomato-themed desserts. The visit showcases Iceland’s remarkable ability to blend innovation with nature, transforming geothermal power and local ingenuity into an unforgettable farm-to-table experience.
One of the most memorable aspects of visiting Iceland was the incredible freshness of the food. Whether dining in the city or in small countryside towns, meals consistently showcase ingredients that are local, pure, and thoughtfully prepared. Fresh seafood comes straight from the surrounding North Atlantic waters—cod, haddock, arctic char, and langoustine caught daily and served with simple, clean flavors. Farm-to-table dining is a way of life, with lamb raised on open pastures, dairy from small family farms, and vegetables grown in geothermal greenhouses that provide year-round harvests.
For visitors, domestic travel is seamless in Iceland—whether by car or by plane. The country is designed for effortless exploration. With a country population of less than 400,000, with 250,000 of those living in Reykjavik and the surrounding areas, Iceland’s road network and geography suit car and/or camper travel especially well. Because the populated areas are concentrated and many locations of interest are not far apart, driving allows visitors to quickly move from city to countryside, from geothermal zones to waterfalls and coastal cliffs.
Travelling domestically by plane was an experience in itself. Due to our limited time, we flew between Reykjavik and Akureyri, often referred to as Iceland’s ‘Capital of the North’. Domestically, flight check-in was fast, security procedures were minimal, and boarding was relaxed and efficient. We joked that this flight was easier, and faster than our typical daily commute to work. For tourists, this means that moving across the country - whether exploring remote regions, connecting between towns, or maximizing limited travel time - is smooth, stress-free, and remarkably convenient. As a result, even short trips allow travellers to see far more of Iceland than they might expect.
Akureyri offers a different side of Icelandic beauty: a mix of mountains, ocean views, and lush valleys shaped by volcanic history. It is in this area where Goðafoss, one of Iceland’s most stunning waterfalls is located. Its sweeping horseshoe shape and turquoise water make it a truly unforgettable sight. The Mývatn region, an otherworldly landscape of craters, lava formations, hot springs, and geothermal fields is what you would imagine walking on the moon would look like. Experiencing this area on four-wheelers (ATVs) added excitement and immersion, allowing us to travel across rugged volcanic terrain and feel directly connected to the power of Iceland’s natural forces.
Of course, Iceland is renowned for its abundance of geothermal lagoons, each offering a unique blend of relaxation, scenery, and natural warmth. During my five-day visit, I was fortunate to experience four remarkable lagoons, each with their own character and charm. Laugarás offered a peaceful, authentic atmosphere surrounded by nature, while the Forest Lagoon in Akureyri combined soothing geothermal waters with stunning views of the surrounding forest and fjord. The Sky Lagoon, set on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, provided an unforgettable infinity-edge experience with dramatic coastal views and a beautifully designed ritual of relaxation. And of course, no trip to Iceland would be complete without visiting the world-famous Blue Lagoon, known for its milky-blue waters, mineral-rich silica, and otherworldly lava surroundings. Experiencing four lagoons in just five days highlighted not only Iceland’s geothermal richness but also how seamlessly wellness, nature, and tranquility are woven into everyday life. For locals, an evening get together at a lagoon, enjoying the geothermal benefits and enjoying a cocktail, is a common, social evening out with friends
Overall, this was one of my most memorable travel experiences. The combination of incredible landscapes, effortless travel, and unique experiences—whether standing at the edge of a waterfall, flying across the country in minutes, relaxing in scenic geothermal lagoons or riding ATVs through volcanic plains—makes Iceland an exceptionally beautiful and accessible destination. This is a country, and an experience, that anyone who loves to travel needs to visit. Even in a short time, the country leaves a lasting impression and inspires a desire to return. I know I will.
