Iceland’s Top 8 Winter Wonders
Sure, Iceland’s winter weather can be challenging. But you’ll be rewarded with these truly unique experiences that make it all worthwhile.
1. Hunt for Northern Lights
The main season to see northern lights is October to March. You can book a guided tour or venture out on your own.
2. Soak in the Blue Lagoon
The most popular tourist attraction in Iceland is popular for a reason—it’s a soothing, special experience. The winter is no exception. The Blue Lagoon is eerie and beautiful to soak during light snowfalls or while watching northern lights dance above on clear nights.
3. Ride Majestic Icelandic Horses
Icelandic horses are hardy creatures that are beautiful to ride along the snowy white landscape. Akureyri-based tour company Saga Travel offers horse-riding day tours from Akureyri and Mývatn.
4. Go Cross-country Skiing up North
Iceland isn’t known for its skiing, but it does have a well-maintained ski area up north, not too far from Akureyri. The Hlíðarfjall ski area has more than a dozen well-kept trails.
5. Take a Glacier Walk
Tour operators offer the unique opportunity to hike on a glacier. They supply all the necessary equipment and provide pick-ups at your hotel or guesthouse. Icelandic Mountain Guides offers a year-round guided tour walking on a glacier in Skaftafell National Park.
6. Ride Snowmobiles
It’s spectacular to glide atop the pristine white snow on crisp and clear winter days. Vatnajökull Travel features a year-round tour that includes snowmobile rides on Vatnajökull glacier, the biggest glacier in Europe.
7. Embark on an Art Museum Crawl in Reykjavík
If the weather outside is frightful, head indoors to explore Iceland’s modern artists, like Erró, and old masters such as Jóhannes Kjarval at the Reykjavík Art Museum.
8. Tour the Golden Circle
Iceland’s number one tour is available year-round. Book a bus tour or drive the 300-kilometer route yourself. The frozen Gullfoss falls and the vast landscape in winter white are gorgeous.
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