The world’s attention was focussed on south Iceland in the wake of the devastating Eyjafjallajökull eruption in 2011, which acted as a reminder of the country’s explosive past. See itinerary ideas
It is this turbulent past that makes south Iceland the most visited region in the country, with the Golden Circle an essential trail, taking in the regular jets of water at Geysir, Pingvellir National Park and the Gullfoss waterfall.
Pingvellir is a popular stop off as much for its historical background as its geographical attractions, fishing and horse riding opportunities; it is the site of the original Icelandic parliament in the 10th century.
Other attractions include the Vatnajökull National Park, which has at its heart the vast Vatnajokull Glacier, which is bigger than all the other glaciers in Europe combined. Seismic activity is in evidence throughout the region and there are a number of active volcanoes here. In the east of the park the Breioamerkurjokull Glacier leads to the coast where giant blocks of ice calve off and form icebergs in the Jökulsárlón lake.
