Before visiting Iceland, I’d heard about the country’s lush landscapes and unspoiled beauty from friends who had visited before. And after viewing the deep green valleys, soaring mountain peaks, and steaming hot springs myself, I understand what everyone has been raving about. Iceland is a beautiful country.
OAT travelers love the magic of Iceland, too. And although we can try to describe the amazing sights we uncovered during our trips, sometimes an image expresses the scene best. Here, Diane C., JoAnne & Glenn T., and Rick S. share some of their favorite memories and photos from their recent journeys to Iceland …
This was a great trip, and what a beautiful country Iceland is. I had never thought that this trip would be so interesting. We saw a lot of rainbows and waterfalls. The people mostly speak English and are very nice. The hotels were near almost everything you needed. We went to some of the municipal swimming pools to swim the Icelandic way. All Icelandic pools are thermally heated, so even doing laps in the big pools was nice and warm—don’t miss this experience! We also went to the hot springs to bathe in the pools there … it was great.
Our Trip Leader was very helpful and knowledgeable about the areas we traveled through. We were able to do and see a few extra things because he was so organized.
People keep asking me: Why Iceland? But it has so much more to see and experience than you’ve ever thought!
Diane enjoys the refreshing spray of the Gullfoss waterfall.
A view of Husavik Harbor.
Diane C.
3-time traveler & Vacation Ambassador
Carmichael, California
Things we loved about Iceland: Learning about the country’s history and formation (volcanic activity and tectonic plates); feeling the effects of geothermal mineral waters at the Blue Lagoon; the food at the Hilton Reykjavik Nordica Hotel; sheep and horses grazing; our horse farm visit; the vistas of this beautiful country; rainbows; the glacier walk; our excellent driver, Beggi (pleasant company and informed Icelander); our very congenial group; and the Skogar Folk Museum and National Museum (a real treasure!).
Iceland is a fascinating country and we’d return in a minute to experience it all again.
A rainbow shines over the mountains in the south of Iceland.
A view of the colorful homes and shops in downtown Reykjavik, from the tower at the Hallgrimur Church.
One of Iceland’s modern churches overlooks this old, yellow boat in Stykkishólmur.
JoAnne & Glenn T.
4-time travelers
Sheridan, Indiana
Iceland is a fascinating place. With its unique geology, a long and interesting human history, and unspoiled natural beauty, it’s a place that was absolutely worth visiting. It’s off the beaten track, but very comfortable for travelers—good hotels and great food. This tour introduced us to a wonderful variety of Iceland’s people, places, and culture. And our Trip Leader had all of the traits of a great guide: extremely knowledgeable in everything relating to Iceland, with a personality that made him feel like a good friend.
Schoolchildren enjoy a walk in Kulusuk Village.
A natural bridge Rick came across during a hike along the coast near Budir.
An evening view of Stykkishólmur and its calm harbor from the lighthouse hill.
Rick S.
First-time traveler
Ellicott City, Maryland