Few places manifest the gargantuan forces of the earth quite as dramatically as Iceland. On this remote island in the North Atlantic, tectonic plates flex their powerful muscles, creating spectacular geysers, thundering waterfalls, aquamarine geothermal lagoons and roaring volcanoes. Winter skies shimmer with the iridescent hues of the Northern Lights. The majestic, millennia-old mountains and glacier-cut valleys make man’s place in the world feel somewhat minuscule and you’ll come away feeling humbled, though generously rewarded.
These are cinematic landscapes that inspire individuality and creativity and, indeed, Icelandic tradition is singularly unique and fiercely defended. The sagas chart the early history of the country weaving legend with historic fact to recount the culture, lifestyle and families of the Middle Ages, whilst tales of the huldefólk (hidden people) delight. Music, art, design and cuisine are similarly rich.
The natural bounty of the land and sea produces a cuisine based on simplicity. Free range lamb features highly, as do lobster from the ocean and salmon from crystal clear rivers. The local spirit too, brennivin, is guaranteed to warm the heart.
