Iceland has quickly become one of the world's hottest travel destinations - and rightfully so, with its breathtaking landscape of enchanting volcanoes, waterfalls and lava fields, topped off with modern hotels and friendly locals. Plus, it's only a seven-hour flight from DFW Airport to Keflavik International Airport via Icelandair.
Winter is one of the best times to visit, so if you're planning a trip, here's a quick itinerary to help guide your adventures.
Blue Lagoon
Blue Lagoon
Reykjavík
Where to stay: To start your trip, stay in the heart of the biggest city in Iceland - Reykjavík. The Ion City Hotel, located in the center of the city, has easy access to shops, bars and restaurants. The hotel has only 18 rooms, but each has luxuriously organic interiors defined by clean lines, Icelandic arts and a minimalist color palette. Try to book one of the suites, which feature a private, indoor sauna with a panoramic view of Reykjavík.
What to do: Upon arrival, many tourists head straight to Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa named one of the 25 wonders of the world. Fed by the geothermal power plant located in the volcano valley, the warm waters range from 99 to 102 degrees and are rich in minerals like silica and sulfur, which are good for the skin. The Blue Lagoon also has a sauna, swim-up face mask bar and beverage bar. Be sure to shower before entering the waters - Icelanders take the sanctity of their nature baths very seriously.
Where to eat: While you may choose to grab a bite at Blue Lagoon's signature Lava Restaurant, which serves seasonal Icelandic cuisine, another dining option is downtown - Reykjavík is an epicenter of restaurants serving everything from French to Italian. For breakfast, grab a Danish pastry from the famous, graffiti-covered bakery, Brauð & Co. Later, head over to Snaps Bistro in the SkÓlavÖrðuholt neighborhood for mussels harvested right in Iceland or French onion soup made with Icelandic Isbui cheese. Pair your meal with the Snorri, an Icelandic ale brewed with barley and organic thyme.
Vogafjos
Vogafjos
Lake Mývatn
Six hours from Reykjavík by car
One hour from Reykjavík by flight (via Air Iceland Connect)
Where to stay: When visiting Lake Mývatn in North Iceland, Fosshotel Mývatn is one of the newest and most luxurious places to stay. Opened last year, the environmentally friendly hotel offers sweeping views of the lake from its suites and formal restaurant.
What to do: Naturally, Lake Mývatn has plenty of water. The Goðafoss Waterfall and Dettifoss Waterfall - featured in the opening scene of the sci-fi movie "Prometheus" - are must-sees. If you're still itching for a hot nature bath, the Myvatn Nature Baths are one of Iceland's more underrated attractions, allowing tourists to swim amidst clouds of steam rising up from a fissure deep in the Earth's surface.
Where to eat: Whether it be for breakfast buffet or evening dinner, head to Vogafjós Cowshed Cafe at the Vogafjós Farm Resort for views of Lake Mývatn and fresh milk and cheese from the farm. Another popular restaurant is Daddi's Pizza - try the Myfluga, a pie topped with smoked trout, pine nuts and cream cheese.
Snowmobiling in Vik
Snowmobiling in Vik
Vik
2 1/2 hours fromReykjavíkby car
Where to stay: For those trying to catch a glimpse at the Northern Lights, the city of Vik in South Iceland is one of the best places to be during winter. One of the newest hotels is Hótel Kría, opened this past year and attracting upscale guests with its sleek interior design and amenities like giant, freestanding bathtubs and large windows for the view of Vik's Black Sand Beach.
What to do: Vik is the place for adventure, whether it be snowmobiling across glaciers or viewing the Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls. A popular destination is the Black Sand Beach, noted for the volcanic minerals and lava fragments that give this beach a breathtaking view. The Dyrhólaey Cliff is also the perfect hike - be sure to stop and look for puffins.
Where to eat: After a long day of activity and adventure, stop by the Smiðjan Brugghús brewpub for a hearty Icelandic burger and selection of 10 different Icelandic craft beers - the Ulfur beer is an Icelandic take on an American-style IPA. Or, if you prefer a more upscale dinner, try the Ströndin Cafe for lamb fillet or pan-fried arctic charr and a selection of exquisite cocktails and wines.
By Marissa Alvarado
