Iceland is one of the most northern and successful countries in the world. Its small population fully satisfies its needs through fishing and energy, built on the hydrothermal energy of geysers and volcanoes. To visit the country of geysers is the dream of many travelers. The harsh nature of Iceland attracts not only stunning beauty, but also amazing opportunities.
First impression
Iceland is a country of geysers and volcanoes. Literally translated as "land of ice". This is an island state with a small mono-ethnic population - approximately 322 thousand inhabitants (according to data for 2016). The bulk of the population of Iceland is concentrated in cities, which can be reached by water, air and roads. The middle part of the country is almost deserted, it is occupied by vast glaciers, geysers, volcanoes, etc.
Icelandic is one of the oldest languages in the world. It is directly related to the language of the Vikings who owned this island in the VIII-IX centuries. The desire to preserve the Icelandic language is fixed at the state level. Instead of foreign concepts that are easily included in everyday life, they come up with their own, having common roots with Icelandic and Old Norwegian languages (part of linguistic purism), thus consolidating their own traditions.
The nature of Iceland is also amazing. It is she who attracts travelers from all over the world here. In historical chronicles, the island was described as wooded mountains on the seashore, but over time, the forests almost disappeared, giving way to mountains and glaciers. Vegetation today occupies only a quarter of the island, the rest is a country of ice, fire and geysers.
Cities
The largest cities of the country of geysers are Reykjavik, Koupavogur, Akureyri, Habnarfjordur, Akranes, Husavik, Seydisfjordur. In the capital, Reykjavik, a little more than 202 thousand inhabitants is the most populated city in the country. There are those where the population does not exceed thousands.
Reykjavik - the northernmost capital of Europe, literally translates as "bay of smoke." Founded and named by the Vikings, it surprises with the proximity of thermal waters, geysers and a snowy sleeping volcano with a legendary history - Esia. This fairly modern city combines the latest technology with ethnographic buildings and a measured way of life for urban residents. The moderate temperature, the proximity of glaciers and the presence of thermal springs make this place attractive for those who strengthen their health by bathing in water at different temperatures. And for locals, thermal springs are a year-round outdoor pool where you can conduct business negotiations or just enjoy a stay in healing water.
Volcanoes
Most tourists who come to the country of ice, fire and geysers dream at least to see volcanoes from afar. The history of the island and even Europe is connected with them, some eruptions led to crop failure, famine and a decrease in the number of inhabitants.
Today, some of the country's volcanoes are considered dormant, about 25 active volcanoes are located on the island. The last eruption was recorded in the south of the country in May 2011 (Grimsvotn volcano). Some volcanic systems are mastered by mountain tourists, among them the Curling Sulur volcano (Northern Iceland) should be noted.
Geysers
In which country are geysers not only the goal of extreme tourism and scientific research, but also a source of useful energy? Without a doubt, Iceland is a leader in the field of geothermal energy.
Today, the country's economy is almost completely built on the energy of geysers. The most famous geysers: the Great Geyser, Stokkur and some others. Like volcanoes, they are animated by local residents and have their own legends. The highest geyser is Stokkur. He throws jets of boiling water and steam to a height of 200 meters. Most geysers are not harmless - it is not recommended to approach them, even if they just rage slowly, without rising to a height.
The most popular place associated with the action of geyser energy is the Blue Lagoon, in which the boiling water of the geyser is mixed with the salt water of the ocean, forming healing pools where you can swim. The Blue Lagoon is considered one of the symbols of the country of geysers, it attracts not only tourists, but also people who want to improve their health.
Water element
Numerous volcanic eruptions and glaciers contributed to the formation of the water system of Iceland. Iceland's longest river is the Thorsau, flowing out of a glacier and flowing into the Atlantic Ocean. It is an enchanting sight with waterfalls and canyons.
Some rivers and lakes of the country of geysers attract lovers of fishing. Salmon and trout in these places reach especially large sizes. For a long time, the main industry of the country was fishing, so fishing is still one of the main activities. In the tourism segment, the country of geysers and fisheries attracts those who do not want to follow the rules of sports tourism. Here, all the fish caught belongs to the fisherman.
Waterfalls
Iceland waterfalls are another source of natural energy and an occasion to get acquainted with the unusual nature of this country. Here is the largest waterfall in Europe - Dettifoss. Its height is 44 m, its width is 100 m. Hafragilfoss competes with it - 27 meters in height and 91 m in width. Located nearby, they invariably attract tourists with their pristine power. All waterfalls in Iceland are not equipped for visiting, they look completely virgin. This is what they attract travelers with.
Iceland is a country of geysers, volcanoes and waterfalls. Unusual mountains, volcanoes and rock formations, glaciers and rivers, volcanic lakes with piercing clean air and blue skies set the tone for this harsh land, inviting here those who want to plunge into the world of wild and pristine nature.