When I was swimming in one of Reykjavik’s geothermal pools this morning I noticed old friends arriving. Too early of course as usual, but they arrived nonetheless.
The autumn leaves. The moon. And Northern Lights.
Autumn colors in the national park
Iceland’s beauty transforms itself during autumn with the changes in colors of nature. It’s social atmosphere slows down and becomes more cozy. Candles are lit again, meat soup is on many stoves, and the nation slowly starts getting ready for winter.
What is it that’s so special about this change of seasons in Iceland? Does it make Iceland even more visit-worthy during this time of year?
Here are some very good reasons and important for your Iceland trip planning:.
Fewer people. Tourist numbers settle down after the hubbub of summer – creating more space both for those who come and for Iceland’s 380,000 residents
Mystical views, gorgeous sunsets and colors. The return of nightfall also means some spectacular sunsets. The twilight sky gives the mystical lava fields and mountain and seaside landscapes new shapes and colors.
Northern Lights – Iceland is not the only place to see the Northern Lights, which make their return. But are not many places in the world where you can see them from a natural geothermal pool. In my opinion combining these two extraordinary phenomena can produce an unforgettable and truly inspiring experience. An Iceland retreat is amazing this time of year.
Photo by Piotr Krajewski – Aurora and a previous volcanic eruption
Winter sports. It will soon be winter sports season, and Iceland offers great options in winter sports such as alpine and cross country skiing where you can stay in gorgeous accommodations and enjoy the instruction of amazing professional skiing instructors. Horseback riding is also a treat in the autumn and winter months on the beautiful and resilient Icelandic horses. .
Culture and great food. Iceland offers delicious food all year round but during winter the Icelanders make the days brighter by enjoying the many often innovative restaurants around the country. Sometimes even made in the geothermal geysers. A concert at Harpa concert hall after a delicious dinner and drinks in Reykjavik is something people coming from afar never forget. Not to mention if you come out after a concert to a chilly evening and some Northern Lights.
Geothermal energy is essential in Iceland for all kinds of purposes – Photo by Frida
Budget. Iceland is not a cheap destination but the prices of accommodation and car rental are seasonal so if you have a dream to come to Iceland this might be the exact right time for you.
Arnarstapi in winter
More on how to start the process of making your Iceland dream come true at www.icelandunwrapped.com
