There was a time when just visiting Iceland was an isolated adventure. Today many travellers come to know and like the fire, ice land. It has become a top attraction destination. The hidden gems in Iceland are more challenging to find. Iceland is a place of natural wonders ranging from volcanic craters, geysers, glaciers, and waterfalls. In this article, we will explore some of the lesser-known attractions in the Land of Ice and Fire that will take your breath away.
Here are 7 Must see Hidden Gems in Iceland
1. Thjorsardalur Valley and its Waterfalls
Thjorsardalur Valley is a charming region filled with lush forestry and unique wildlife. This destination even has gorgeous waterfalls that tourists have often missed. Haifoss waterfall is Iceland’s third-highest one at 400 feet tall, while the smaller Granni waterfall is just a stone’s throw away. Both of them are beautiful hidden gems in South Iceland. Little further down the valley, there is the Hjalparfoss waterfall. Lastly, there’s Thjofafoss on the other side of the mountain Burfell. Visitors can take a tour to explore these stunning waterfalls.
2. Ice Caves in Vatnajokull Glacier
Vatnajokull Glacier is home to breathtaking ice caves. One can find these amazing natural wonders during the winter months. It is a world of glistening blue ice and intricate formations. The crystal chambers constantly change which makes one adventure truly one of a kind. This Vatnajokull Glacier ice caves tour is a magical experience that will leave you breathless. As sunlight passes through the ice, it is scattered and absorbed. Longer wavelengths like red and yellow, are absorbed more than shorter wavelengths, like blue.
3. Fjadrargljufur Canyon
Fjadrarglijufur Canyon is a twisty masterpiece of nature. This place is hidden away from crowds, it offers a serene escape where visitors can explore the meandering canyon and admire the raw, yet sometimes delicate, beauty of the Icelandic landscape. Fjadrarglijufur Canyon is also referred to as Sweet Ass Mossy Canyon. Visitors can take their time hiking up and enjoying the stunning scenery. This destination is equally stunning during wintertime. Fjadrarglijufur Canyon also appeared in the hit HBO show Game of Thrones.
4. Hvitserkur Rock
Hvitserkur rests by itself just outside the Hunafjordur fjord in Northwest Iceland. It is a slight diversion from the main Ring Road of Iceland, in between the villages of Reykir and Blonduos. Visitors can reach this hidden gem, by driving Road 711 from the Ring Road. There are no tours at this place, so visitors have to drive by themselves. For the people who visit in winter months, Hvitserkur can make the perfect foreground for some shots of the northern lights if one is lucky enough to get a great show. However, these moments make Hvitserkur one of my favorite secret spots in Iceland.
5. Gljufrabui Waterfall
Gljufrabui waterfall in South Iceland is a hidden gem that many people miss. This waterfall is only an 820-yard walk away from Seljalandsfoss, next to a farm. To explore the waterfall, one needs to walk between a couple of rocks that form a little cave entrance. Then the visitors can stand right underneath the waterfall. They can take this wild South Coast tour with waterfalls and glacier hiking from Reykjavik, which includes a visit to Gljufrabui on the itinerary.
6. Siglufjordur Village
Siglufjordur Village is a charming and picturesque fishing town nestled between steep mountains and the dark rich waters of the fjord, is one of the hidden gems in Iceland. It is an ideal spot for soaking in the beauty of Icelandic nature. This is a cute town found at the northernmost tip of the Trollaskagi peninsula. Siglufjordur Village is remote and overlooked but some of Iceland’s best-hidden gems are found here. If you are at this destination make sure to visit the Herring Era Museum, one of the best museums in Iceland. That brings the town’s history to life through some beautiful buildings on the town’s main street.
7. Stakkholtsgja Canyon
Stakkholtsgja Canyon offers an amazing experience on Iceland’s wild and untamed side. As visitors walk through the canyon, they fall head over heels in love with its towering walls, lush greenery, and stunning waterfall at the trail. Stakkholtsgja Canyon is close to Thorsmork. One can reach a waterfall deep inside if one hikes it for about two hours. This is an easy hike that’s suitable for the family as well. Exploring any canyon in Iceland is always a treat that offers a variety and photo opportunities.