1. Reykjavik & Greater Capital Area

2. South-East

3. South

4. North

5. West

6. The Golden Circle

Best time to visit:

• Spring/Summer/Fall (Mid-April to September): Bask in the long days under the midnight sun, perfect for discovering natural wonders like Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and hiking in Skaftafell.

• Winter (October to March): Experience the magic of the Northern Lights, explore the ethereal Blue Ice Caves in Vatnajökull National Park, and enjoy thrilling winter activities such as ice climbing, snowmobiling, and glacier hiking.

Go for this: Jökulsárlón is an absolute must-see. This breathtaking glacial lagoon, filled with floating icebergs, offers a mesmerizing glimpse into nature's raw beauty. Hop on a Zodiac boat tour to get up close to the icebergs and see the lagoon from a unique perspective. These small inflatable boats let you navigate through the maze of icebergs and even approach the glacier wall. Along the way, you might spot seals lounging on the ice or swimming in the lagoon, making for an unforgettable experience.

But try this:  Hike to Svartifoss in Skaftafell National Park: Nestled in Skaftafell National Park, Svartifoss (Black Waterfall) is surrounded by striking black basalt columns. The hike to Svartifoss is relatively easy and offers picturesque scenery along the way, providing a fantastic alternative to more crowded spots.

Favorite hotels:

• Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon combines luxury and comfort in a prime location between Skaftafell and Jökulsárlón. The hotel offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and serves as an excellent base for exploring South East Iceland.

• Opening in Summer 2024, Glacier Lagoon Hotel will offer cozy rooms, a signature restaurant, and outdoor hot tubs with panoramic views of the glacier and mountains, providing a luxurious and serene retreat amidst Iceland's stunning landscapes.

Favorite guest experience: Blue Ice Caves in Winter: Delve into the stunning Blue Ice Caves in Vatnajökull National Park, accessible only during the winter months. For an extraordinary adventure, opt for the helicopter tour. This thrilling experience includes a scenic flight over the glacier and volcanic terrain, landing directly at the entrance of a secluded ice cave. Guided tours provide all necessary safety equipment, allowing you to explore the crystal-clear blue ice formations up close for a truly unique and magical experience.

Favorite restaurant: Pakkhús Restaurant is a beloved spot in the fishing town of Höfn. Known for its mouth-watering langoustine dishes, it offers an authentic taste of Icelandic seafood in a charming and cozy setting.

Foods:

• Langoustine: Especially in Höfn, renowned as the langoustine capital of Iceland.

• Pizza at Íshusid Pizzeria: This pizzeria in Höfn is famous for its thin stone-baked pizzas made with high-quality ingredients—a must-visit for pizza lovers.

Drinks: While Iceland isn't known for its wine production, it boasts a vibrant craft beer scene. In South East Iceland, a notable mention is:

• Jón Ríki Brewery: Located near Höfn, this brewery offers a range of locally crafted beers that capture the essence of Iceland's unique brewing traditions.

Select photos credited to Ozzo