Ruta Glacial: Descubre el Suroeste de Islandia

About the destination: Reykjavik is not your typical capital city, it has no magnificent buildings, or a historic city centre or grand monuments, this city is much more than that. Iceland’s capital is different, full of life and very close to nature. Its location, at the fringe of the Atlantic Ocean, between two fjords and surrounded by a lunar volcanic framework, makes the city, which name literally means Bay of Smokes, incomparably special. The world’s northernmost capital is the perfect place for outdoor and wildlife lovers. Surrounded by sea, whale watching is one of the most popular touristic activities. The city has plenty of open spaces: parks, pedestrian areas, a lake situated next to the city hall and Nauthólsvik geothermal beach just 15 min away from the city centre. Throughout the city there are 7 municipal geothermal pools where locals go to socialize and relax after work. Other activities like cycling, hiking, horse riding, sailing and fishing can all be enjoyed on the doorsteps of the capital. Aside from all its natural wonders, Reykjavik has always something to offer. It is a cosmopolitan and dynamic city full of museums, art galleries and cosy coffee shops. Its nightlife is exciting and outrageous, during a night out, it seems locals are making up for the prohibition on beer that was in force till 1989 and nightspots tend to stay open until the early hours of the morning. During the day, the capital is a much more relaxed place, with its trim colourful houses, rubbish-free streets and an easygoing pace of life. Reykjavik is considered the one of the cleanest, greenest and safest cities in the world. Getting lost in this city is almost impossible: Hallgrímskirkja church and Öskjuhlíð hill are visible from most places in the city centre and are essential landmarks for orientation. Reykjavik is dynamic, creative, modern, cosy and very special. Its peculiar personality and magnetic surroundings will make you agree that there’s no better city in the world.

About the destination: Arnarstapi is a village on the southern side of the Snæfellsnes peninsula. The area has several old and charming houses with interesting stories to them and is renowned for its beautiful nature. The beach at Arnarstapi holds a particular attraction. It has an eroded circular stone arch, called Gatklettur, and here, the interplay of spectacular waves and the light of the sun create a fascinating spectacle. Large colonies of the arctic tern also nest in the area, and both these features make it very popular amongst photographers. An old horse trail through the lava field Hellnahraun is highly popular for hiking, due to the impressiveness of the surrounding landscape.

About the destination: For centuries, Hellnar was among the largest fishing villages beneath the Snaefellsjokull ice cap. Valasnos, a freestanding rock, extends east of the bay. One of Iceland's most peculiar caves, Badstofa, is there. It is known for its special light exposure and colourful interior. The Hellnar church was built in 1945 on a picturesque site where a church was first raised in 1833.

About the destination: Ólafsvík is a town on the northern side of Snaefellsnes peninsula, close to the magnificent glacier, Snaefellsjokull. It has a large fishing harbour which is ideal for watching the lively seamans life. An old warehouse, built in 1844, is now protected and houses a museum, with exhibits displaying working methods from ancient times. At the end of Baejargil gorge is the beautiful Baejarfoss waterfall. Snaefellsjokull National Park with its amazing nature is in the vicinity.

About the destination: Though Grundarfjörður is not the most well-known town in Snæfellsnes, its mountain is certainly one of the most famous mountains in Iceland, if not the world. It is not unusual for photographers from all over the world to make their way to Grundarfjörður for the sole purpose of photographing this unique landmark which has even starred in a number of films. Nature abounds, with vibrant birdlife, spectacular waterfalls, great hiking trails and exciting marine visitors such as seals and whales putting in an appearance every now and then. During the long summer days, there are daily boat trips where visitors can go deep sea fishing, see puffins and other beautiful birds and perhaps even catch sight of a whale or two.

About the destination: Reykholt is a village in the valley of the river Reykjadalsá, called Reykholtsdalur. It is part of Borgarfjörður, Western Region. Today, the village has 60 inhabitants, a school centre and a library concentrating on the works of Snorri Sturluson. A statue of Snorri by Gustav Vigeland can be found here. Archeologists are still working here and finding medieval remains. In the vicinity, Japanese scientists are doing research on the aurora borealis (the northern lights).

About the destination: Nestled in the heart of Iceland's Golden Circle, Laugarvatn is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, relaxation, and cultural experiences. This charming village is located on the shores of Lake Laugarvatn, surrounded by stunning landscapes of rolling hills, geothermal springs, and lush greenery. Whether you are seeking adventure or tranquility, Laugarvatn has something for everyone. A must-visit attraction in Laugarvatn is the Fontana Geothermal Baths. Here, you can soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters while enjoying breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The baths are complemented by steam rooms that are naturally heated by hot springs beneath the surface, providing a unique and rejuvenating experience. Don't forget to try the traditional “hot spring bread,” which is baked underground using the geothermal heat. For those who love outdoor activities, Laugarvatn offers numerous opportunities for hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. The nearby Laugarvatnshellar caves are also worth exploring, providing a glimpse into Iceland’s rich history and folklore. In winter, the area transforms into a snowy wonderland, perfect for snowshoeing and enjoying the Northern Lights. Laugarvatn’s central location makes it an excellent base for exploring the Golden Circle’s other iconic sites, such as the Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park. After a day of adventure, the village offers cozy accommodations and local eateries where you can savor Icelandic cuisine. Whether you are planning a short visit or an extended stay, Laugarvatn promises an unforgettable Icelandic experience.

About the destination: The village of Vík is situated on the island's main ring road, about 180 km by road southeast of Reykjavík. Vík í Mýrdal or simply Vík, as the locals call it, is a remote seafront village in the south of Iceland and is the southernmost village on the Icelandic mainland. The natural environment in Vík í Mýrdal is quite beautiful, with a bird-filled black sand beach, Mount Reynisfjall to the west, Hjörleifshöfði to the east and the Mýrdalsjökull glacier at the top of the mountainous area which is perfect for exploring the lovely trails.The village of Vík is located on the main ring road around the island, around 180 km (110 mi) by road southeast of Reykjavík.

About the destination: Kirkjubajarklaustur is a village of about 160 inhabitants and only for a walk of almost 100 m, located in the south of Iceland, on the Road No. 1 in the country, Hringvegur.

About the destination: Grindavík is a fishing town on the Southern Peninsula of Iceland. It is one of the few cities with a harbour at this coast. Most of the inhabitants work in the fishing industry. The Blue Lagoon, Grindavík's premiere attraction, is located 3 miles (4.8 km) from the town centre.

About the destination: Reykjavik is not your typical capital city, it has no magnificent buildings, or a historic city centre or grand monuments, this city is much more than that. Iceland’s capital is different, full of life and very close to nature. Its location, at the fringe of the Atlantic Ocean, between two fjords and surrounded by a lunar volcanic framework, makes the city, which name literally means Bay of Smokes, incomparably special. The world’s northernmost capital is the perfect place for outdoor and wildlife lovers. Surrounded by sea, whale watching is one of the most popular touristic activities. The city has plenty of open spaces: parks, pedestrian areas, a lake situated next to the city hall and Nauthólsvik geothermal beach just 15 min away from the city centre. Throughout the city there are 7 municipal geothermal pools where locals go to socialize and relax after work. Other activities like cycling, hiking, horse riding, sailing and fishing can all be enjoyed on the doorsteps of the capital. Aside from all its natural wonders, Reykjavik has always something to offer. It is a cosmopolitan and dynamic city full of museums, art galleries and cosy coffee shops. Its nightlife is exciting and outrageous, during a night out, it seems locals are making up for the prohibition on beer that was in force till 1989 and nightspots tend to stay open until the early hours of the morning. During the day, the capital is a much more relaxed place, with its trim colourful houses, rubbish-free streets and an easygoing pace of life. Reykjavik is considered the one of the cleanest, greenest and safest cities in the world. Getting lost in this city is almost impossible: Hallgrímskirkja church and Öskjuhlíð hill are visible from most places in the city centre and are essential landmarks for orientation. Reykjavik is dynamic, creative, modern, cosy and very special. Its peculiar personality and magnetic surroundings will make you agree that there’s no better city in the world.