Did you know that Iceland is the world's 18th largest island? It compares in size to the state of Ohio. Iceland is known for chocolate-covered black licorice, and we got hooked on it. It is also the most stunning country we have ever been to, and we barely scratched the surface. While it might not be the most ideal place to travel to with young kids, I'd still recommend it. Sure, we encountered some bumps along the way, but the highlights and memories made far outweigh the meltdowns and tears. Here is our 6-day itinerary, touring Iceland with kids...
Day 1 - Blue Lagoon to Snaefellsness Peninsula
After a red-eye flight, we headed straight to the world famous Blue Lagoon. It really is everything it's cracked up to be. Beautiful milky-blue water, perfect soaking temperature, a fun swim-up bar and a complimentary skin softening facial mask. It was a great way to perk up after an overnight flight.
More Blue Lagoon photos on Day 6
From the Blue Lagoon, we headed northwest to an "authentic country hotel" ~ Hotel Langaholt Quaint, warm & cozy are the words that first come to mind when trying to describe this guesthouse located in a stunning mountain valley. Removed from modern day and brought back in time, this place felt like a hug from grandma.
Ended our nights with a hot cup of tea and coloring
Day 2 - Tour Snaefellsness Peninsula
Stops included Ytri Tunga Beach (we spotted sunbathing seals), a 19th century wooden church, Bjarnafoss waterfall, Malariff Lighthouse, Londrangar overlook, Saxholl crater, the cutest little fishing village and the snow-covered Kirkjufell falls.
Day 3 - The Golden Circle
We said good-bye to the west coast and headed inland to adventure in what is known as The Golden Circle. Started the day in Thingvellir National Park then made stops at Gullfoss falls, Bruarhlod and the Secret Lagoon. Dinner at Restaurant Mika (HIGHLY recommend) and a comfortable stay at Hotel Skalholt (also recommend).
Day 4 - South to Vik
Stopped in at GK Bakari to get our day started and that might have been the BEST decision we made on this entire trip! My mouth is watering just thinking about the coffee and pastries.
GK Bakari - go here!
The two biggest waterfalls of our trip were en route to the town of Vik. Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss were in the simplest way to put it - breathtaking. We hit up Mia's Country Van - Local Fish & Chips for lunch (HIGHLY recommend) before checking into the coolest room at Hotel Vik. After a quick breather, we went to the black sand of Reynisfajara Beach, followed by a sunset stroll along the Dyrholaey overlook (probably the most incredible views I've ever taken in).
Day 5 & 6 - Reykjavik and Blue Lagoon
Headed north, back to the capital of Iceland - Reykjavik. Along the way, we made a scenic stop at Uridafoss. We spent two nights on the marina at ReykjavÃk Marina - Berjaya Iceland Hotels. It was a nice stay that was conveniently located to the downtown area. Places we ate include Islenski Barinn (just ok), Sandholt bakery (also just ok) and Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur for the famous Icelandic hot dog (made of lamb). Get it with the works - super good! Shopped in downtown, took photos and videos on rainbow road, ate rye bread ice cream at Cafe Loki (good but waaaaay overpriced) and visited the Leif Eriksson Monument. Chet decided to get his haircut at a local barbershop. We spent over an hour at a main street market picking out our favorite Icelandic candies, coffee beans and hot sauces. Ended the day with another soak in the Blue Lagoon. If you have a choice between daytime and evening, go with the latter!
Iceland was incredible. I've tried to describe it to friends and family since our return and I know my words do not do it justice. The pictures help, but even they fall short. I hope this post has put Iceland on your bucket list, or at least has you thinking about it ;)
Any questions? We would love to be of help if you're planning a trip to Iceland in the near future! Shoot us an email at thebackpackingblotskes@gmail.com
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