Landscape and Climate

Landscape

Iceland's landscape is shaped by volcanoes, glaciers, and hot springs due to its location on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge where two tectonic plates meet. This has created a unique landscape characterized by lava fields, mountains, and glaciers.

Iceland is home to over 100 volcanoes, numerous hot springs, geysers, and mud pools. Geothermal energy is used for heating homes and providing electricity, making Iceland environmentally friendly. The country's glaciers cover 11% of its land area, including Europe's largest glacier, Vatnajökull.

Iceland's towns and villages have a rich cultural heritage, with Reykjavik offering a vibrant arts and culture scene. Other towns and villages showcase Iceland's traditional way of life with colourful houses, quaint churches, and lively festivals.

Climate

Iceland's location just below the Arctic Circle makes its climate seem harsh, but the Gulf Stream current helps to moderate it.

The country has a cool maritime climate with mild winters and cool summers. Reykjavik's average temperatures range from -1°C in January to 11°C in July, but temperatures vary greatly across the country due to its topography and weather patterns.

In winter, Iceland experiences long, dark days with few hours of daylight. However, many people visit during this time to see the Northern Lights.

In summer, the famous midnight sun creates nearly 24 hours of daylight, providing more time for outdoor activities.

Iceland experiences strong winds and frequent storms throughout the year, so be prepared for any weather conditions.