Iceland has been famous since the time of the Vikings for its hot springs, which are located throughout the country. It is worth noting that hot water in the homes of the inhabitants of the Icelandic islands comes directly from thermal springs, so there is no need to use systems for heating it. No wonder the people of the country always look so young.
have many medicinal and cosmetic properties, which has already been confirmed by many doctors and cosmetologists. It is the springs that attract most tourists here. Moreover, it is possible to visit both equipped springs and wild ones. The latter can simply be stumbled upon by chance while exploring the area.
If the trip consists precisely in visiting these wonderful waters, then it is better to immediately go to the equipped thermal springs in Iceland. At the same time, every tourist can choose a vacation to their liking and affordability, because there are public pools with thermal water, the entrance to which costs little money, as well as expensive spa resorts offering a wide variety of services. Consider the most popular of them.
First of all, let's highlight health-improving complex "Blue Lagoon" located in the southwest of Iceland. There is a lake with thermal water, the temperature of which is +37 O - +40 O C. The composition of the water includes such elements as silicon, quartz, clay, salt, blue and green algae. In addition to bathing in the spring, clients can undergo a variety of cosmetic and medical procedures (masks, wraps, peels, etc.). Guests can take a shower, leave their belongings in the locker rooms. The cost of one visit will be approximately 40 euros, the Blue Lagoon is open from nine in the morning to nine in the evening.
Another popular place is Landmannalaugar, which attracts not only with thermal springs, but also with unique rhyolite mountains, which have yellow, white, green and turquoise colors. Near each pool with a thermal spring there is a sign on which information about the composition and temperature of the water is indicated. You can swim in the waters of the springs all year round, but if you want to relax in nature, for example, with an overnight stay in tents, then it is best to come in the summer. Tourists can also ride horses here and spend the night in guest house nearby.
One of the oldest thermal springs in Iceland Snorraleig. He is in small village Reykholt. The temperature of the water in the springs of Snorraleig varies greatly, so it is not always possible to swim here. He himself is surrounded by stone slabs, and not far from him there is a tunnel through which it is possible to walk and explore. A guest house was built 20 km from the source for those who want to relax and explore the area in more detail.
The amazing hot spring of Reykholt, having a water temperature of +97 ° C, - Deildartunguquever. Vapors of water evaporating in the air can be seen from afar in clear weather. The unique fern Blechnumspicant grows near the spring. Therefore, if there is a desire to see this plant and admire beautiful scenery then you should definitely visit this place.
Iceland's Hot Springs Valley is considered Hveravetlir. It is located on the way to the Kyolur Mountains. It offers excellent and wonderful views - glaciers alternate with lava fields. It is also striking that bathing in thermal springs takes place next to snow-covered areas.
Republic of Iceland. A state on the island of Iceland, in the North Atlantic Ocean, 300 km east of Greenland and 1,000 km west of Norway. The area is 103 thousand km2.
Administrative-territorial division: 8 regions, including 23 districts (sisla).
The capital is Reykjavik.
Time is 3 hours behind Moscow time. From the last Sunday of March to the last Sunday of September - for 4 hours.
HOLIDAYS IN ICELAND
1st of January - New Year, mid-April - Good Friday, April - Easter, May 1 - Labor Day,
end of May - beginning of June - Ascension Day, May 31 - Spirits Day, June - Trinity, June 17 - Independence Day (a holiday celebrated with colorful parades, music and dancing in the streets, theater performances), December 24 - Christmas Eve, December 25 - Christmas, December 26 - Christmas time, December 31 - New Year's Eve.
Other national holidays. Sjomannadagurinn. Celebrated in the first week of June. Dedicated to sailors and is held in the form of swimming competitions, games of war on land and at sea. Midsummer (June 24). In the middle of summer, the night acquires magical healing power and can cure 19 diseases. Sumardagurinn Fyrsti is a carnival on the third Thursday of April, marking the beginning of summer. Among the local festivals, the August Pyodhati Vestmannaeyjar is famous. This is the time of "earth-shaking" events: kindling fires, field trips, dancing, singing and general fun.
Also in August, Verslunarmannahelgi is celebrated, accompanied by barbeques, horse races, outings, family reunions and heavy drinking.
NATURAL CONDITIONS IN ICELAND
Most of the territory is occupied by a plateau (400-800 m), over which rise mountain ranges (1000-1500 m) and volcanoes (about 200, of which 30 have been active over the past millennium). The most famous active volcanoes: Hekla and Lucky. Volcano Hvannadalshnukur is the highest point in the country, reaching 2119 m. Lava fields and other traces of volcanic activity (geysers, hot springs) occupy 6% of the territory of Iceland. The coast is heavily dissected by fjords. Frequent earthquakes.
The territory of Iceland is covered with a dense network of rivers, the most significant of which is Thjoursau. There are many lakes of tectonic, volcanic and glacial origin on the island. The largest lake is Tingvadlavatn.
The vegetation of Iceland is sparse, more than 60% of the territory is covered with stony placers with mosses and lichens. Significant areas (on lava fields) are completely devoid of vegetation. Vast areas are occupied by peat bogs. Insignificant arrays of birch forests.
The fauna is represented by the arctic fox, some mouse-like rodents; reindeer and mink settled in the interior; off the north coast floating ice polar bears appear; walruses live in coastal waters. Iceland is known for its diversity of birds (more than 100 species), as well as the large number of salmon and trout in the rivers. About 150 species of fish live in coastal waters, including cod, sea bass, halibut, haddock and herring.
National parks: Thingvellir, Myvatn og Lahsau, Skaftafell, Jekulsaurglyurvur.
CLIMATE OF ICELAND
Subarctic, marine, heavily influenced by the Gulf Stream. The cold season is from October 23 to April 23, the average air temperature is 2 °C; warm season (late April - early October), average air temperature 10 °C. The maximum amount of precipitation falls in autumn. At the end of winter and spring close to the island come polar ice. Ice covers 11.4% of the island's area.
VISA TO ICELAND
The term for issuing a visa is 10 days. A questionnaire and a photo are provided. A transit visa allows a stay of up to 7 days. The validity of the entry visa is determined by the dates indicated in the letter of invitation.
ICELAND CUSTOMS
Duty-free import is allowed: 200 cigarettes or 250 g of tobacco; 1 liter of spirits or 1 liter of wine, or 12 bottles of beer; 10 kg of items and household items; personal first aid kit; food.
It is forbidden to import: medicines, butter, eggs, non-canned meat, broken poultry.
It is forbidden to export: expensive gold items; bird eggs.
Sanitary and veterinary control. Tourists do not need a vaccination certificate. The import of pets is prohibited.
Anti-epidemic security. There is no risk of infection with especially dangerous infectious diseases.
ICELAND TRANSPORT
Air transport. Aeroflot flights: Moscow - Copenhagen (Oslo, London, Stockholm), further to Keflavik daily flights of the Icelandic airline. There are 86 airfields in the country, including 12 with paved runways. International airports Reykjavik and Keflavik. The latter is shared with the US.
Road transport. The length of roads is 12.7 thousand km, with a surface - 3439 km. There is an extensive network of roads, a ring road around Iceland. There are regular bus services between many cities and towns. But the real network of urban bus routes only Reykjavik and Akureyri have.
In Reykjavik, bus stops are marked with the letters SVR. There are no tickets as such. Upon boarding, you are required to pay the driver $1.69. Drivers do not give change, but passengers can ask for a transfer ticket (skiptimidi), which allows you to take another bus within an hour.
Railway transport. railway No.
Water transport. The tonnage of the sea merchant fleet is 192 thousand tons. Ports and harbors: Akureyri, Hornafjordur, Isafjordur, Keflavik, Raufahöfn, Reykjavik, Seydisfjordur.
The country has three large companies: Icelandic Steamship, State Shipping and Cooperative Shipping. Steamboats and motorboats run regularly between coastal cities and towns. Sea communication is supported with the USA, Great Britain, Germany, Denmark and Norway.
CURRENCY OF ICELAND
The monetary unit is the Icelandic krone. Currency regulation. The import of foreign currency is limited (the declaration is obligatory in case of subsequent export of foreign currency), national - no more than 8 thousand kroons. The export of imported foreign currency is allowed, national - no more than 8 thousand crowns.
STAY IN ICELAND
Russian citizens arriving in the country are registered at the Keflavik airport when passing through passport control. There are no restrictions on movement around the country for Russian citizens.
Police rules. Common to European countries.
SOCIO-POLITICAL STRUCTURE OF ICELAND
Iceland is a parliamentary republic. The head of state is the president. Legislative initiative belongs to the parliament, and the executive power is exercised by the government. Foreign policy issues are within the competence of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Economy. The basis of the economy is fishing (catch over 1.5 million tons per year) and fish processing. Share in GDP (%): fishing and fish processing industry - 14.4, other manufacturing industries - 12.3; agriculture - 2.7. Electricity production 4.4 billion kWh, mainly at hydroelectric power plants. Geothermal energy is widely used to heat residential buildings and greenhouses. Ferrous and non-ferrous metallurgy (aluminum smelting), metalworking, shipbuilding, wool knitwear production.
Meat and wool sheep breeding and dairy cattle breeding, vegetable growing (in greenhouses), cultivation of fodder grasses.
Export: fish and fish products, aluminum, ferrosilicon, lamb, sheepskin, wool and woolen products. Main foreign trade partners: Great Britain, Germany, USA.
The population is 271 thousand people, mostly Icelanders. The average population density is about 2 people per km2. Urban population - 91%. The composition of the population is homogeneous - the descendants of Scandinavians and Celts.
The official language is Icelandic.
Religion. Lutherans - 96%, Protestants and Catholics - 3%.
National traditions. Icelanders are very good-natured and pleasant people.
ICELAND CUISINE
All cuisines of the world are represented in Iceland: Oriental, Italian, French and others. Icelandic cuisine can hardly be called rich and varied due to the scarcity of flora and fauna and the harsh climate. The national cuisine of Iceland is simple, tasty and rustic-quality. Such, for example, are traditional Icelandic stew and roast lamb.
Fish restaurants amaze with the sophistication of dishes: the menu in a variety of types includes salmon, halibut, cod, shrimp, scallops and shark cooked according to special Icelandic recipes.
One of the gastronomic delights is "hakarl" (hakarl), rotten shark meat, which is aged for six months to ensure a sufficient degree of decomposition. Another delicacy is hrutspungur, pickled lamb testicles pressed into cookies, as well as svid (svid) - a separated sheep's head (completely, with eyes), sawn in half, brought to a boil during cooking and eaten almost raw or pickled.
Less shocking is "bleikja" - charred meat, whale lip, whale steak, fur seal meat. A uniquely Icelandic dish is skyr, which resembles yogurt, a product made from milk cream and a bacterial culture.
The traditional Icelandic drink is brennivin, a type of schnapps made from potatoes and flavored with cumin.
Much attention is paid to vegetables grown in greenhouses heated by steam from geysers.
The competition in the restaurant business is extremely high, which is why Iceland has one of the highest ratings for restaurant food and service.
Alcoholic drinks are usually expensive (a large glass of beer costs about $8). In coffee shops, visitors pay only for the first cup of coffee, while everyone else gets it for free.
TOURISM IN ICELAND
Low transport accessibility Iceland affects tourist attendance.
The largest cities (thousand people): Reykjavik (100), Kipavogur (17), Hafnafjordur (16), Akureyri (15), Keflavik (7.5) and Vestmannayar (5).
Night Reykjavik is not much inferior to any other European city. Among the attractions of the city: Museum of Natural History, National Museum, National Gallery, Halgrim's Church and Leif Erickson's monument - a gift from the United States in honor of the millennium of the founding of the Althing.
For tourists in Reykjavik, the Reykjavik Tourist Card is sold, which gives the right to free access to museums and thermal pools, as well as free travel on buses. A one-day card costs about $8, a two-day card costs about $11.
Thermal springs in - the visiting card of this country eternal ice. Bathing in their waters will bring real pleasure to vacationers, it will favorably affect the state of health and skin.
Features of thermal springs in Iceland
Natural hot springs in Iceland have special cosmetic and healing properties. So, those tourists who decide to explore the country can “accidentally” discover a “wild” spring or visit public pools (vacationers should pay attention to Laugardalslaug, which has a jacuzzi, saunas, water slides for young guests, outdoor and indoor pools) and public hot springs (the Nautholsvik geothermal beach is of interest - there is white sand, and hot water is poured into a multi-meter pool, the temperature of which all year round is at the level of + 38-42 degrees; in winter, you can visit it from 11 am to 1 pm, and in summer - from 10 am to 7 pm).
Of no less interest is the valley of the Haukadalur geysers, among which the Big Geyser stands out. Since 2003, during eruptions, he “shoots” hot water to a height of 10 meters about 3 times a day (previously, the Geyser erupted 8 times a day). During the dormant period, the Geyser becomes a lake, the depth of which is 1.2 m.
And those who find themselves in Grotgja in cold weather should definitely plunge into the local hot waters.
Blue Lagoon
The temperature of the water in this geothermal lake is +38-40˚C, and besides, it contains silicon, salt, quartz, white clay and blue-green algae. Here you can not only swim to get rid of cellulite, soothe loosened nerves, rejuvenate, solve skin and dermatological problems, but also undergo a course of necessary procedures (masks, peelings, body wraps, thermal baths) in the local Blue Lagoon thermal complex. There, in addition to the outdoor pool, guests will find changing rooms and showers where you can use shampoo and shower gel for free, as well as waterfalls, saunas and a bar where everyone will be offered to enjoy the taste of vitamin cocktails and alcoholic drinks.
It is worth noting that for the purpose of convenient movement for the guests of the complex, numerous bridges are provided, and for those who are interested in the closed part of the lagoon, access to which is limited - Exclusive Bath and Lounge (maximum capacity - 12 people; there are separate recreation areas, rooms for dressing up, etc.).
Helpful information: working hours: from 9-10 am to 8-9 pm; cost of visiting: 33-40 euros.
Hveravetlir
The “Valley of Hot Springs” is famous for its thermal baths. In winter, everyone will be able to swim in pools with hot thermal water, and in summer they can also plunge into nearby reservoirs, the water in which is cooler. It is worth noting that the most famous spring is Eyvindahver.
Landmannalaugar
Landmannalaugar attracts tourists here with its rhyolite mountains (they are painted in blue, yellow, white, green, turquoise colors) and geothermal springs - unique natural pools filled with warm water (signposts are installed next to each, which reflects information about the water temperature). Bathing in them is available throughout the year, as a result of which everyone will be able to cope with depression, stress, migraine, and get rid of back pain.
In addition, in Landmannalaugar you can ride a horse and stay in a guest house (it can accommodate more than 70 people).
If you want to stay in this area for a few days, pitching a tent, it is best to plan a trip here in July-August. And if your plans include visiting the most interesting places and swimming in the hot waters of Icelandic springs, then it makes sense for you to join the trekking route called "Landing on Mars".
Snorraleig
Snorraleig is the oldest thermal spring and is located in the village of Reykholt. It is worth noting that the water temperature often fluctuates dramatically, which makes the water unsuitable for swimming (it is too hot for this).
The first references to the spring were found in the writings of the Icelandic writer Snorri Sturluson, who is known to have used it as a natural heated pool for bathing. Today Snorraleig is surrounded by stone slabs, and not far from the source is a tunnel that you can explore if you wish.
If you decide to stay closer to the source, 20 km away from it, you will be able to find the Guesthouse Milli Vina (where you can order breakfast and dinner in your room).
Deildartunguquever
The water temperature of the Deildartungyukver spring is +97 degrees (180 liters of water is poured per second). And nearby you will be able to find the unique Blechnumspicant fern growing in this area.
During Viking times it was very popular in Iceland to swim outdoors in hot volcanic pools. Several of these springs have survived to our times - now they are the world famous hallmark of Iceland. And, of course, it is very nice to plunge into such a "hot tub" after a long hike, so we have prepared a selection of 10 geothermal springs where you can soak up on cold days. The special effect of such sources with the purest water is described by cosmetologists and doctors. Be sure to experience their effect on yourself if you ever find yourself in this amazing country - Iceland.
1. Nautholsvik Geothermal Beach, Reykjavik
Do you know what the northernmost capital of the world looks like? Check out: white sand, a beach filled with sunbathers (although the maximum temperature here rises to 15 degrees). You will not freeze, because right on the beach there is a long pool with hot sea water, where the temperature reaches 38 degrees. That's what makes Iceland unique!
2. Laugardaslaug, Reykjavik
The advantage of this Icelandic source is that there are bars and restaurants near it. You can relax and enjoy your daily swim, or you can sit with your friends at the bar and gossip about everything in the world. This is the largest and best equipped complex in the country, a great place to spend time. There are indoor and outdoor pools, jacuzzis, saunas, and water slides for children.
3. Blue Lagoon, Reykjanes
This wonderful place with bright blue water is the most popular spa in Iceland. You can swim here all year round, the water temperature is 40 degrees. The water of the Blue Lagoon has a beneficial effect on the body - it heals, rejuvenates. There are steam rooms, restaurants, so you won’t notice how the day flies by. Look at and you will definitely fall in love with this place!
4. Landmannalaugar
Situated on the edge of the mountains, this hot spring seeps out from under the edge of a fifteenth century lava flow, then mixes with the cold water flow. You enter cold water, then move upstream to where the two streams meet. Find the place where the temperature will be the most optimal for you, relax and admire the local scenery.
5. Snorraleig, Reykholt
This thermal pool was named after the poet, who was very fond of visiting the source. Now you can swim here and recharge with health and positive emotions.
6. Grettisleyg
Another pool associated with history was used by Grettir to heal himself after he swam across the four-mile-wide icy bay that separates the mainland from the cliffs of Drangey. He was found by servants, completely exhausted and immobilized. According to legend, the hot spring resurrected him. You can feel its power on yourself, but it is better not to repeat the feat of Grettir.
7. Leirubakki, Hekla
This is one of several farms that dot the foothills of the Hekla volcano. The volcano is 1500 meters high and erupts regularly. In the ninth century, when there was a Viking settlement here, it was believed that the crater of the volcano is the gateway to hell. This village has a small swimming pool that can only fit 4 people. However, it is located overlooking the volcano, which makes this place breathtaking and impressive.
8. Hot lake Jardbodin, Myvatn
If you've visited Iceland in winter hoping to see the Northern Lights, then this modern resort in the Myvatn Hills is a great place to visit. The fourth largest lake in Iceland is located at the foot of the volcanic belt. It has great scenery overlooking the calm waters of the lake. As a bonus - tectonically unstable terrain, boiling mud pits, volcanic cones and red-hot lava! The last eruption was in 1988.
9. Gryotgya, Myvatn
In a small village east of Lake Myvatn is Grjötgja, a flooded underground volcanic fissure that used to be a popular swimming spot until the eruption in 1970 set the waters hot. The place is worth taking a look at. And if you are here in the cold winter, you can safely plunge into the hot waters.
10. Viti, Askya
After the eruption in 1875, lakes formed here. The road to these places is quite difficult, but the scenery is magnificent.
Was last modified: June 26th, 2016 by Olga Kulygina
Iceland's worldwide fame came through its geothermal springs. The tectonic structure of the island where the country is located has given it both economic and tourist advantages. For example, water heating for plumbing and heating systems is not used here. This is not necessary, since hot water enters the pipes directly from natural thermal springs. There is a belief that it is because of this factor that most of the inhabitants of Iceland look so young.
As for tourism activities, the guests of the country are given a choice: to enjoy peace and quiet at a random “wild” spring or enjoy the benefits of civilization near ennobled pools and springs, near which there are saunas, jacuzzis, water slides, etc.
Any hot spring in Iceland has a number of features. Here are some of them.
- Public pool . Such places, in most cases, have at their disposal thermal springs-jacuzzi. Any of the guests will find here the temperature according to their tastes, they can perfectly relax or have an active rest. Near some large pools there are also magnificent green spaces.
- Public geothermal springs in Iceland. Visiting such places is most often free or at a minimal cost. However, you should be prepared to see a crowded place. One of the most attractive beaches is Nautholsvik, where you can enjoy a beautiful view of the spring and feel the contrast between hot thermal water and cold ocean water.
- Spa resorts . These are places for visitors who love luxury. In addition to the pool, there are changing rooms and showers with all the necessary hygiene products, as well as saunas and a bar with a lot of vitamin cocktails or alcoholic drinks.
Here are some of Iceland's most famous hot springs:
Blue Lagoon – one of the most famous thermal springs in the southwest of Iceland. Here you can relax both in the daytime and under the glow of the starry sky. The water temperature is about 37 ° C, which allows you to feel the charm of such a holiday. In addition, the source is rich in mineral salts, a variety of seaweed and quartz, which has a beneficial effect on the general condition of the body. Here it is also possible to rejuvenate, calm the nervous system, get rid of cellulite, undergo a course of peelings or body wraps. The complex is open from 9 am to 9 pm local time. The cost is about 40 euros.
Landmannalaugar – a place that attracts tourists with its unique rhyolite mountains, painted in yellow, white and turquoise, and, of course, thermal springs. Near each pool with warm water you can see a sign containing information about its temperature. Visiting the springs is available all year round, which contributes to the unceasing flow of tourists.
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In addition to treating depression, migraine, back and joint pain, you can simply stay here, live in a guest house or take a horseback ride. It is also possible to live in a tent, but it is better to plan such a trip for the summer.
Snorraleig – the oldest spring in Iceland. It is located in the village of Reykholt. It is named after the poet who loved to visit it. Now this place is not so popular, as the water temperature here fluctuates and sometimes becomes too hot for swimming. The place is surrounded by stone slabs, and there is a tunnel nearby that you can explore. The guest house closest to the spring is 20 km away.
The hot spring Deildartungyukver in Reykholt., having a water temperature of 97 ° C, is the largest in Europe. Its thermal field evaporates about 180 l/sec. Vapors, which in clear weather can be observed from afar, constantly hang in the air. This source provides hot water settlements within a radius of 100 km. The beautiful Blechnumspicant fern also grows in this unique area.
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Iceland's geothermal springs are the highlight of this "ice" country. Bathing in them brings great pleasure and benefit to its residents and tourists. A positive effect on general health, a beneficial effect on the skin is indicated by both cosmetologists and doctors.
