If I had 24 hours to spend in Iceland I’d like to experience something truly unique without missing out on the main tourist attractions on my bucket list. For me personally, splashing around in a geothermal pool is a must.
Although The Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s most renowned and luxurious geothermal spa, I’d probably decide to save it for another time and explore another natural bathing spot, one which is still a bit of a ‘secret’.
I’d hop on the airport shuttle and head straight to my hotel in Reykjavík and check in. With my swimsuit, a towel and my camera ready I’d wait in the lobby for the mini bus to come pick me up first thing in the morning. On the agenda is The Secret Lagoon; A less known natural pool, generated by the constant flow of warm water from a natural hot spring. The temperature is just perfect to relax in. This also happens to be Iceland’s oldest swimming pool.
The Golden Circle
Included in this round trip is the Golden Circle which consists of three of the most iconic ‘must see’ places in Iceland; Geysir the famous erupting hot spring, Gullfoss waterfall and Thingvellir National Park. Thingvellir is situated on the North Atlantic ridge which explains the slowly and continuously expanding gorge in which you can literally stroll between the two tectonic plates.
At Geysir is where my camera comes in handy because who doesn’t like a sexy erupting geyser on their IG feed? Or a stunning waterfall? After an adventurous day of sightseeing, a taste of Icelandic delicatesse and chilling in the hot pool with a cold beverage we’d head back to Reykjavik and reach in perfect time to explore the food scene.
If you enjoy meat, the Icelandic lamb is a must try. It’s as close to organic as can be as the sheep roam free in the mountains all summer. If you prefer vegan or veggie cuisine, there are quite a few good ones on Laugarvegur; the main street for little shops, cafés and restaurants. I’d go for one of Iceland’s many fish restaurants. There is abundance of delicious, fresh fish swimming in the ocean surrounding Iceland. I’d go for Sægreifinn restaurant by the harbour. A small restaurant famous for their lobster soup and grilled fish. Perfect location for me as my next destination is just a stone’s throw away.
With a full stomach I’d head for Reykjavik old harbour for whale watching in the midnight sun. If it was wintertime, I’d simply swap the whale watching tour for a Northern Lights cruise. On board there’s a bar and live music, guaranteed to get everyone in the mood before hitting the Reykjavik nightlife after hopefully spotting some whales playing in the midnight sun.
The Reykjavik Nightlife
With my 24 hours almost up I would not waste any time. I’d hit the nightlife and dance for a couple of hours in one of the many bars Reykjavik has to offer. The great thing about Reykjavik’s nightlife is that after midnight many of the pubs transform into mini-clubs with DJ’s and people dancing wherever there’s space. Before it gets too late it’s time head back to the hotel and curl up in bed for a couple of hours till my airport shuttle gives me a reality check and it’s time to leave.
