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Exploring the Wonders of...
South Iceland
Iceland, the land of fire and ice, is an enchanting destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure, and family-friendly activities. The country’s southern region is particularly captivating, with its stunning waterfalls, black sand beaches, glacial lagoons, and charming towns. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the must-see attractions and experiences in South Iceland, perfect for a family trip filled with wonder and excitement.
Reykjavik
Special Treats in Reykjavik
Perlan: Visit the Perlan, a unique building that houses an interactive museum, a planetarium, and a 360-degree observation deck. Kids will love exploring the exhibits and learning about Iceland’s natural wonders.
Driving in Iceland
One of the best ways to explore South Iceland with your family is by renting a camper van. This allows you to travel at your own pace, stop whenever you want, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery along the way.
Rough Driving Conditions
Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, and the wind can be particularly strong, especially in the south. Be prepared for rough driving conditions and always check the weather forecast before setting out on your adventures. Make sure to drive cautiously and follow the road signs, as some roads may be closed due to weather conditions or maintenance. Once, we had to stop for over three hours as a bus was turned sideways by the conditions. We ended up precariously driving off-road to finally get around it.
The Golden Circle
A Must-See Route
The Golden Circle is a popular tourist route that covers three of Iceland’s most iconic attractions: Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall. This route is an excellent introduction to Iceland’s natural wonders and is easily accessible from Reykjavik.
Thingvellir National Park
This UNESCO World Heritage site is where Iceland’s first parliament was established in 930 AD. It’s also home to the Silfra fissure, where kids can snorkel between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
Geysir Geothermal Area
Watch in awe as the Strokkur geyser erupts every 5-10 minutes, shooting boiling water up to 40 meters in the air. The surrounding area is also filled with colorful hot springs and bubbling mud pots.
Gullfoss Waterfall
This magnificent waterfall is one of Iceland’s most iconic attractions. The powerful cascade drops 32 meters into a deep canyon, creating a breathtaking sight that will leave your family in awe.
Waterfalls Galore
Chasing South Iceland's Cascades
Seljalandsfoss
This picturesque waterfall is famous for the walking path that leads behind the cascade, offering a unique perspective and a refreshing mist. Be sure to bring waterproof clothing for your family, as you’ll get wet!
Skógafoss
This massive waterfall is one of Iceland’s most popular attractions, with a width of 25 meters and a drop of 60 meters. Climb the stairs to the top for a breathtaking view of the cascade and the surrounding landscape.
Gljúfrabúi
Often overlooked by tourists, this hidden gem is located just a short walk from Seljalandsfoss. To reach the waterfall, you’ll need to wade through a short stream and enter a narrow canyon. The experience is magical and well worth the effort.
Black Sand Beaches and Plane Wrecks
Exploring Vik and Beyond
The charming village of Vik is the southernmost settlement in Iceland and is surrounded by stunning natural attractions. Here are a few must-see sights in and around Vik:
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
This iconic beach is known for its jet-black sand, towering basalt columns, and powerful waves. Keep a close eye on your children, as the waves can be dangerous and unpredictable.
Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck
In 1973, a U.S. Navy DC-3 airplane crash-landed on the black sand beach of Sólheimasandur. The abandoned fuselage has since become a popular attraction, offering a unique and eerie photo opportunity. The hike to the wreck takes about an hour each way, so make sure your family is prepared for the trek.
Dyrhólaey Arch
This massive rock arch is a stunning natural wonder that offers panoramic views of the surrounding coastline. Keep an eye out for puffins during the summer months, as they often nest in the cliffs nearby.
Soaking in Nature
Iceland's Geothermal Hot Pools
No family trip to Iceland is complete without a dip in one of the country’s famous geothermal hot pools. These natural wonders are not only a relaxing way to unwind after a day of exploration but also offer a unique opportunity to connect with Iceland’s natural beauty. While the Blue Lagoon is the most well-known hot pool, there are several other amazing options worth exploring in South Iceland.
Blue Lagoon
Located near Reykjavik, the Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s most famous geothermal spa. The milky blue water, rich in silica and minerals, is known for its therapeutic properties. Children age 2 and older are welcome, making it a great family-friendly option.
Secret Lagoon
Tucked away in the small village of Flúðir, the Secret Lagoon is a gem of a spot that offers a more intimate and authentic experience. We liked it at least 10 times more than the Blue Lagoon. The natural hot spring is surrounded by a picturesque landscape, and the nearby geysers add to the magical atmosphere.
Seljavallalaug
Reykjadalur Hot Springs
For a truly memorable experience, take a hike through the Reykjadalur valley near the town of Hveragerði. The trail leads you past bubbling hot springs and steaming vents before arriving at a warm river where you can soak and relax in the midst of nature.
Laugarvatn Fontana
This geothermal spa is located on the shores of Lake Laugarvatn, just a short drive from the Golden Circle. The spa features steam rooms, hot tubs, and a natural pool, all fed by the area’s geothermal springs.
When visiting Iceland’s hot pools with children, always make sure to follow the safety guidelines and age restrictions. Keep a close eye on your kids, as the water temperature can be very hot in some areas. By taking the necessary precautions, your family can enjoy a safe and unforgettable experience soaking in Iceland’s natural wonders.
Glacial Lagoons and Diamond Beaches
As you continue your journey along the south coast, you’ll reach the breathtaking Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon and the nearby Diamond Beach. These unique attractions showcase the beauty and power of Iceland’s glaciers and are a must-see for any family trip.
Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon
This stunning lagoon is filled with icebergs that have calved from the nearby Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. Take a boat tour to get up close to the icebergs and spot seals swimming in the crystal-clear water.
Diamond Beach
Just across the road from Jokulsarlon, you’ll find the aptly named Diamond Beach. This black sand beach is dotted with glistening chunks of ice that have washed ashore from the lagoon, creating a stunning and surreal landscape. Somehow, we missed the giant icebergs on the beach. Probably because the kids were way too cold by then. Anyhow, here’s another picture of an iceberg:
Secret Iceberg Viewing Spot
For a more secluded iceberg viewing experience, head to the lesser-known Fjallsárlón glacial lagoon, located just a short drive west of Jokulsarlon. The turn-off is not very well marked and really is off the beaten path. You probably won’t see another person there.
Bouncy Fun
Iceland's Quirky Playgrounds
Hljómskálagarður Park
Located in the heart of Reykjavik, this park features a large trampoline-like structure that kids can jump on and a variety of other fun play equipment.
Bounce House Indoor Playground
If you’re looking for an indoor activity, head to the Bounce House in Reykjavik. This indoor playground features a variety of inflatable bounce houses and slides, perfect for burning off some energy on a rainy day.
Tips for a Successful Family Trip to South Iceland
Pack for all weather conditions: Iceland’s weather can change quickly, so make sure to pack warm layers, waterproof clothing, and sturdy shoes for your family. One day it was sunny, then the wind disabled the assisted steering on our car, then we swam in warm water, then we touched ice, then the wind rocked us to sleep in our camper van. All in one day.
Bring snacks and drinks: Iceland’s remote areas may not have many dining options, so it’s a good idea to pack some snacks and drinks for your family to enjoy on the go.
Respect nature and follow safety guidelines: This message will probably be lost on Instagram influencers who cross “keep out” signs, climb fences, and just generally ignore all the rules. Iceland’s natural wonders are beautiful but can also be dangerous. Always follow safety guidelines, stay on marked trails, and keep a close eye on your children.
Conclusion
South Iceland is a magical destination that offers endless opportunities for adventure, wonder, and family bonding. From the charming streets of Reykjavik to the mighty waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glacial lagoons, this region is sure to leave a lasting impression on your family. By following our guide and tips, you can create unforgettable memories and inspire a lifelong love of travel and nature in your children. So pack your bags, rent a camper van, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime in the land of fire and ice.