Luxuriate in Bond-esque lodgings close to Iceland's Glacial Fjord
Unleashing the Magic of Iceland's South-East Coast
Travelers flocking to Iceland often find themselves captivated by the allure of the country's South-East coast. This picturesque region boasts a dazzling array of natural wonders, from the awe-inspiring Vatnajökull glacier to the captivating black beaches of Reynisfjara.
Start your journey at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, a mesmerizing spectacle known for its floating icebergs. You can take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline or opt for a thrilling boat tour to get an up-close view of these colossal chunks of ice. Just next door, Diamond Beach beckons with its stark contrast of black sand and shimmering icebergs washed ashore.
Just a stone's throw away, Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon unfurls another breathtaking landscape full of tranquility. Nature lovers will revel in the opportunity to connect with the enchanting scenery.
For the more adventurous, why not embark on a kayaking tour to paddle your way through the floating icebergs in Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon? Or perhaps, join a Blue Ice Cave Tour (available from October to April) and explore the otherworldly ice caves of Vatnajökull. These guided excursions offer a unique, eco-friendly way to immerse yourself in the fascinating landscape.
As the sun sets, retreat to the chic and contemporary Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon, located just 29 kilometers from the lagoon and 27 kilometers from Svartifoss in Skaftafell National Park. This modern hotel boasts 104 beautifully appointed rooms, complete with minimalist design and Iceland's coveted tartan woolen blankets. Large windows offer spectacular views of the sea, reminiscent of a framed picture of the landscape.
The on-site restaurant is renowned for its exquisite cuisine, with ingenious Icelandic ingredients seasoned with a modern twist. Don't miss the hotel's exceptional set menus, a veritable culinary adventure. After dinner, unwind on the hotel's sundeck, perfect for admiring the Northern Lights (in winter with a couple of blankets and a warm beverage) or losening up after a day of hiking in Skaftafell National Park.
Skaftafell offers a range of hikes, from easy trails leading to Svartifoss and Skaftafellsjökull glacier, to more challenging paths extending to Morsárdalur valley and Kristínartindar mountain peaks. The park is the ideal starting point for those aspiring to scale Iceland's highest mountain peak, Hvannadalshnjúkur.
Private travel companies in Skaftafell offer guided hikes on nearby glaciers and mountains, as well as sightseeing flights over Vatnajökull (Iceland's largest glacier) and other renowned attractions. The glacier lagoon itself is a short drive away, reachable via highway number one. It's around 370 km (230 miles) east from Reykjavík and is often referred to as one of Iceland's greatest wonders of nature.
Enrichment:At Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, visitors can explore further with amphibian boat tours or zodiac safaris, kayaking tours, and guided ice-caving expeditions. Other nearby points of interest include Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon, the Thorbergur Center, and the Hvannadalshnjúkur area for stunning glacier views. The Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon provides a comfortable stay with amenities like a terrace, laundry facilities, a bar, sauna, and hot tubs.
- To complement the breathtaking experience at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, consider exploring additional points of interest such as Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon, the Thorbergur Center, or the Hvannadalshnjúkur area.
- Once you've finished admiring the glacier wonders in Skaftafell National Park, indulge in contemporary dining at the Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon, featuring ingenious Icelandic ingredients seasoned with a modern twist, set menus, and a sundeck for Northern Lights viewing.
- For those seeking a unique lifestyle experience, kayaking tours are available at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, while Blue Ice Cave Tours in Vatnajökull offer an eco-friendly way to explore the enchanting ice caves.
