4-Nights Scenic South Iceland

Kirkjubaejarklaustur

Despite its big name, Kirkjubaejarklaustur, Iceland, is a small village near the Laki lava fields (some of the largest in the world), volcanoes and the Myrdalssandur outwash sands (caused by glacial flooding).

Kirkjubaejarklaustur, located 170 mi/275 km east of Reykjavik, merits one night or a day trip. It's a popular base for visitors of Vatnajokull National Park. If you are driving through, hire a local guide to take you to some of the more well-known natural attractions.

Reykjavik

The fire, frost and water symbolized by the red, white and blue of Iceland’s flag are manifested in this land. Reykjavik, or Smoky Bay, was so named in 874 A.D. by Ingolf Arnarson when he sighted the numerous hot springs on the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula. Today this remarkably pollution-free city is wrapped around a sweeping bay and has managed to retain its charming Old-World atmosphere. A pastiche of red-blue-and green-roofed houses together with the tall gray tower of Hallgrim’s Church dominate the skyline. In Old Town, many of the wooden buildings have been lovingly restored and stand side by side with modern timber and concrete structures. There are fine museums and art galleries; historic pubs present activity in late afternoon. The beautiful countryside outside of Reykjavik includes such natural wonders as volcanoes, geysers, glaciers, mountains and spectacular waterfalls.