A short guide about Culinary Food / Wine travel to Iceland
Iceland was settled in the 9th century by Norse Vikings and the first settlement city Reykjavik has a bustling nightlife, an exciting arts scene, and offers visitors the opportunity to explore the countryside in short trips to areas such as Thingvellir, Gullfoss and Geysir.
Word has it that Leif Ericsson named Iceland and Greenland like he did to get explorers to go to Greenland (only to find millions of square miles of ice). If you are interested in nature, Iceland is a great place to visit. In the summer, many companies offer guided bus trips that will take you around the country. You can also take the bus by yourself and go on hikes near places such as Thorsmoerk, Snaefellsjoekull, and more. Another alternative is to ride horseback across the highlands.
The terrain in Iceland is so rugged due to centuries of volcanic activity; this is where the US tested their lunar landing module that eventually drove on the moon! Also because of Norse woodcutting and volcanic activity, there are virtually no trees on the island! There is one small "forest" that is a national landmark. Iceland, although Greenland's neighbour benefits from the gulf and jet streams, however, the wind blows almost constantly and reaches 100 mph (sustained for a day or two)!
Hotels are rather pricey, like most things in Iceland, but you can find some lovely youth hostels, and camping space is easily available in the summer time. Campgrounds have showers and toilets, and in addition there are many public pools where you can go to shower. If it all gets to be too much for you, most pools also have Jacuzzis or "hot pots" where you can soak away the stress.