If you’re planning a short stay in Iceland, then these natural spectacles will prompt your getaway to develop into a memorable lifetime experience. Not sure what to do in Iceland? It can seem like a pretty intimidating place for a first-time traveler journeying to this isolated wonderland. However, taking Iceland with most hands (careful, it might be slippery) and embracing its whimsical culture will ensure that this little piece of Scandinavia will stay with you forever.

The Blue Lagoon

No great trip to Iceland is complete without soaking yourself in the geothermally-heated waters of this nation’s little treasure – the Blue Lagoon. The silica-sulphuric based liquid will moisturize your skin, while keeping your body reliably heated, as the water’s average temperature ranges anywhere from 37-39°C (98-102°F).

The opaque, light blue water provides itself with a murky appearance; and due to the volcanic, black rocky surroundings, it almost gives you the impression that you’re in a foreign land – almost as if you’re on another planet or even the moon. Take pleasure in applying the silica-like sludge to your face while enjoying one of the Blue Lagoon’s finest cocktails. Relaxation is justly taken to a new level at the Blue Lagoon.

The Golden Circle

The Golden Circle encapsulates three of Iceland’s most awe-inspiring natural beauties. Firstly, you will discover Gullfoss (pictured), which is Iceland’s major multi-layered waterfall. Produced by the slowly melting glaciers, Gullfoss gives off a multi-coloured appearance while the icy cold waters gush out into an immense rift – a truly wonderful sight.

Geysir, the second part of the Golden Circle, sits in nearby proximity to Gullfoss and is known for spewing up an abundance of boiling steam up to 70 meters in the air at any one time. While the Great Geysir was blocked by tourists hurling objects into it during the 1950s, Iceland’s most dependable geyser, Strokkur (Butter Churn), is situated 50 meters away and erupts on average approximately every four minutes.

Finally, Þingvellir National Park allows one to grasp the historical aspect of Iceland. Complimenting the Golden Circle, Þingvellir is actually the location of the world’s first democratic parliament, which was established in around 930 AD. Aesthetically, the National Park is also a sight to behold as it has now become a vast creviced dale, which was brought about by the dividing Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.

The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis)

In the cold hours of the night between November and March each year, the Northern Lights can be best viewed from the skies of the more secluded regions of Iceland. Away from the city lights of Reykjavik, undulating bands of green or red light that glitter across the otherwise night sky will leave you with a breathtaking view of our atmosphere as we know it.

However, the cosmic phenomena can only be seen when the conditions allow for it. Not only is darkness essential, there needs to be little cloud in the sky and crisp cold air for the scientific spectacle to take place. Despite demanding perfect conditions, the celestial sensation is one to make the effort for; and if you do get a chance to observe it, you will not be disappointed!

Booking a tour through your hotel to see these natural sights is easy, but for more information on any of the following sights or to book a tour, ask the staff at your hotel how to go about witnessing these unique marvels.