Iceland is one of the northernmost and most 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. Visiting the country of geysers is the dream of many travelers. The harsh nature of Iceland attracts not only with stunning beauty, but also with amazing opportunities.
First impression
Iceland is a country of geysers and volcanoes. Literally translated as "country of ice". This is an island state with a small mono-ethnic population - approximately 322 thousand inhabitants (as of 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 back in the 8th-9th centuries. The desire to preserve the Icelandic language is enshrined at the state level. Instead of easyforeign concepts that come into use here come up with their own, having common roots with the Icelandic and Old Norse languages (part of linguistic purism), thus reinforcing their own traditions.
The nature of Iceland is also amazing. It is she who attracts travelers from all over the world. 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 now occupies only a quarter of the island, the rest is a land of ice, fire and geysers.
Cities
The largest cities in the country of geysers are Reykjavik, Kopavogur, Akureyri, Hafnarfjordur, Akranes, Husavik, Seydisfjordur. With just over 202,000 inhabitants, Reykjavik, the capital, is the country's most populous city. There are also those where the population does not exceed a thousand.
Reykjavik is the northernmost capital of Europe, literally translated as "bay of smoke". Founded and named by the Vikings, it surprises with the proximity of thermal waters, geysers and a snow dormant volcano with a legendary history - Esja. This rather modern city combines the latest technologies with ethnographic buildings and a measured lifestyle of urban residents. Moderate temperature, the proximity of glaciers and the presence of thermal springs make this place attractive for those who strengthen their he alth by swimming in water of different temperatures. And for local residents, thermal springs are a year-round open pool where you can hold business negotiations or just enjoybeing in healing water.
Volcanoes
Most tourists who come to the land of ice, fire and geysers dream of seeing volcanoes at least from afar. The history of the island and even Europe is connected with them, the eruptions of some 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 have been mastered by mountain tourists, among them the Kerling 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 geothermal energy.
Today, the country's economy is almost completely built on the energy of geysers. The most famous geysers are: Big Geyser, Stokkur and some others. Like volcanoes, they are animated by the locals and have their own legends. The highest geyser is Stokkur. It throws jets of boiling water and steam to a height of up to 200 meters. Most of the geysers are not harmless - it is not recommended to approach them, even if they just slowly bubble up without rising in height.
The most popular location associated with geyser energy is the Blue Lagoon, where the boiling water of the geyser mixes with the s alt water of the ocean,forming healing pools in which you can swim. The Blue Lagoon is considered one of the symbols of the country of geysers, attracting not only tourists, but also people who want to improve their he alth.
Water element
Multiple volcanic eruptions and glaciers have contributed to the formation of Iceland's water system. The longest river in Iceland is the Thjoursau, which flows out of a glacier and flows 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 tourist segment, the country of geysers and fishing attracts those who do not want to follow the rules of sports tourism. Here, all the fish caught belong to the fisherman.
Waterfalls
Waterfalls in Iceland are another source of natural energy and a reason to get acquainted with the unusual nature of this country. Here is the largest waterfall in Europe - Dettifoss. Its height is 44 m, width - 100 m. Hafragilfoss competes with it - 27 meters in height and 91 m in width. Located nearby, they invariably attract tourists with their pristine strength. All the waterfalls in Iceland are not equipped to visit, they look completely virgin. This is what attracts travelers.
Iceland is a country of geysers, volcanoes and waterfalls. Unusual mountains, volcanoes and rockyformations, glaciers and rivers, volcanic lakes with piercingly clear air and blue skies set the tone for this harsh land, inviting here those who want to immerse themselves in the world of wild and pristine nature.
