Welcome to the land of fire and ice! Iceland is home to some of the most breathtaking national parks in the world. Whether you’re staying at our hotel in Ísafjörður, Stykkishólmur, Hvítá in Borgarfjörður, Klettasel in Hof in Öræfi, Drangshlíð in south Iceland, or Hrífunes close to Vík, you’ll find yourself surrounded by natural beauty and adventure. Let’s explore some of Iceland’s most beautiful national parks and how you can make the most of your visit.
Vatnajökull National Park
Vatnajökull National Park is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Iceland. Covering 14% of the country, this park is home to Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull. The park offers a variety of landscapes, from glacial rivers and waterfalls to volcanic craters and geothermal areas. If you’re staying at our Klettasel hotel in Hof in Öræfi, you’re just a short drive away from the park’s southern entrance.
Start your day with a visit to the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where you can witness icebergs drifting in the serene waters. Don’t miss the nearby Diamond Beach, where ice chunks wash ashore, creating a stunning contrast against the black sand. For a more adventurous experience, consider booking a glacier hike or ice cave tour with Troll Expeditions.
Snæfellsjökull National Park
If you’re staying at our hotel in Stykkishólmur, Snæfellsjökull National Park is within easy reach. This park is named after the Snæfellsjökull volcano, which is capped by a glacier and was famously featured in Jules Verne’s “Journey to the Center of the Earth.” The park offers a mix of volcanic landscapes, lava fields, and coastal cliffs.
Begin your exploration with a hike to the summit of Snæfellsjökull for panoramic views of the surrounding area. Alternatively, you can explore the park’s many lava tubes and caves. Don’t forget to visit the picturesque Arnarstapi village and the dramatic cliffs of Lóndrangar.
Þingvellir National Park
Þingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a place of great historical and geological significance. Located within driving distance from our Hvítá in Borgarfjörður hotel, this park is where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, creating a rift valley.
Spend your day exploring the park’s many hiking trails, which offer stunning views of the rift valley and the park’s crystal-clear lakes. Don’t miss the opportunity to snorkel or dive in the Silfra fissure, where you can swim between two continents. Þingvellir is also home to the site of Iceland’s first parliament, Alþingi, which was established in 930 AD.
Hornstrandir Nature Reserve
For those staying at our Ísafjörður hotel, a visit to the remote and pristine Hornstrandir Nature Reserve is a must. This area is known for its dramatic cliffs, lush valleys, and abundant wildlife, including Arctic foxes and seabirds.
Plan a day trip to Hornstrandir with a guided tour from Troll Expeditions. You’ll have the opportunity to hike through untouched landscapes, visit abandoned villages, and enjoy the tranquility of this remote wilderness.
Landmannalaugar
Located in the highlands of Iceland, Landmannalaugar is a geothermal wonderland known for its colorful rhyolite mountains and hot springs. If you’re staying at our Drangshlíð hotel in south Iceland, this area is accessible for a day trip.
Start your day with a hike on one of the many trails that wind through the area, such as the popular Laugavegur Trail. After a day of hiking, relax in the natural hot springs and soak in the stunning surroundings. For a guided experience, consider booking a tour with Troll Expeditions.
Whether you’re an avid hiker, a history buff, or simply looking to relax in nature, Iceland’s national parks offer something for everyone. Make the most of your stay at Ourhotels.is by exploring these incredible natural wonders and creating unforgettable memories.