The "Cool" Iceland
Iceland means new and different things for you to see and do, whatever the season. Every part of the year has its own special attractions, character and charm. And don’t let the name deceive you - Iceland can be very warm in summer when the sun shines virtually round the clock, while in January the average temperature is about 0°C.

Natural Wonders
Much of Iceland is still taking shape before your very eyes - raw, dramatic landscapes born from volcanic eruptions and carved out by glaciers. Other parts have hardly changed since the first Viking settlers saw them more than 1,100 years ago. You’ll experience wilderness and wildlife, energy and total calm, within easy reach wherever you stay, even on day trips.

Culture and Heritage
Icelanders are proud that they still speak the ancient language of the Vikings, but they certainly don’t just live in the past. Their cherished ancient heritage lives on in harmony with the most exciting innovations from the world of arts and culture today. This refreshing mix of local, traditional, progressive and cosmopolitan culture appeals to almost every taste.

Action and Fun
You can interact with Iceland’s world of natural wonders in endless ways. Some activities, such as swimming in geothermally-heated pools, are part of the everyday life-style. Others are ideal ways to relax from the stress and cares of modern life. Yet others offer you the challenge of the mightiest forces that nature can muster through river rafting, glacier exploration by snow scooter and a host of other new and sensational ways, within easy reach of the city. Many people seize the opportunity of a cultural event such as a concert in Iceland to take a break with unimaginable combinations of other leisure attractions in a sizzling new environment.

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On your Own
Travellers visit Iceland today for exactly the same reasons that motivated the Vikings who discovered the place in the ninth century - the love of freedom. Whether your delight is in vast, untouched and uninhabited expanses of landscape, or strolling around town making friends, you’ll fell free in Iceland. And a whole host of travel options are available. You can travel the 1,340 km Ring Road in part or in full, or head out to see the sights on fjords and peninsulas that branch out all over the country.

Local accommodation is available to suit every taste and budget, ranging from quality hotels in larger towns, through summer hotels (regional school premises) with beds or room for sleeping bags, to guesthouses, farm accommodation and campsites with standard facilities.

Car rental has become a big favourite in recent years. A wide range of vehicles can be rented, including 4WD, but drivers are advised not to venture alone where there are unbridged rivers on the tracks.

Quality food
With its pristine natural environment, clean water and pollution-free atmosphere, Iceland in not just a place to feast your eyes on. This fresh and refreshing environment also produces quality food that is the ultimate in good taste.

Icelandic seafood is unrivalled for its quality. Restaurants offer a wide selection of fish harvested fresh from the ocean daily, salmon is available both wild and farmed, and the lobster is a treat you’ll wonder how you ever lived without. Highland lamb has a flavour reminiscent of game after grazing in the wild on highland pastures rich in herbs, and is hormone-free, reared on small environment-friendly farms.

Seasonal delicacies include ptarmigan and reindeer (early winter), while a range of seabirds are included among traditional foods now served up to exciting gourmet standards. And don’t forget to round things off with a dessert of skyr (a type of curds), preferably served with fresh bilberries and cream.

Smart shopping
Shopping is something of a national pastime in Iceland and eagerly shared with its visitors. While the general price level is similar to the other Nordic countries, "smart" cosmopolitan buyers will love Iceland for its particularly competitive fashion wear and designer labels. Tax-free shopping is widespread and the souvenirs - particularly wool, handicrafts and gourmet foods - are unique.

There’s always something new and exciting in Iceland, whatever the time of year.

(Source: Icelandic Tourist Board)

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