Travelling to Iceland As a Family: Advice and Destinations
Iceland is renowned worldwide as the land of ice and fire: cold snowy landscapes combined with hot volcanic activity and continental shifts place the country in top places to visit. You do not have to leave your kids when you go on holiday: Nordic countries in general are very family friendly, and Iceland is no exception.
The best time to travel to Iceland is during the summer. It is still generally chilly and packing more cold weather clothes than beach wear is a good idea.
Here are some tips and advice on visiting Iceland as a family.
Destinations
The summer months offer the greatest amount of time and activities to enjoy the country. The weather is just warm enough that most streams and rivers are flowing and the landscape is not covered in snow and ice. The days are longer and activities are plenty.
The best and probably most photographed hot spring in the country, the blue lagoon offers warmth in the cold crisp air. Blue Lagoon tickets are on sale year- round as the water is always warm. Swimming in the hot water during winter and enjoy the therapeutic mud is a must-do activity for everyone.
Other places such as the Highlands are more remote and show the more desolate parts of the country. Good for hiking and watching the lava interact with ice and water will be very fun for kids. The Eastern Fjords are less wild than the Western fjord but similarly remarkable. Enjoying the fishing villages dotted around the sharp edges of the fjords while whale watching during orca migration season or kayaking through the calm water is an incredible experience.
Reykjavik city centre is the complete opposite of the fjords and hiking trails around. The vibrant surroundings and beautifully painted houses and quaint shopping centres will keep everyone happy and thrilled all day long.
Night time brings the opportunity to witness the Aurora Borealis or Northern lights. The naturally occurring light show is sure to be spectacular for the kids to enjoy as the waves form and move around the night sky.
Do’s and Don'ts
Some walks are long and the terrain is tough as the landscape is not uniform, make sure to always check before setting out on a hike. During summer, the melting ice and snow can inflate rivers and make crossing more perilous but having a local tour guide is very helpful.
Enjoy the culture and be mindful and respectful of the traditions, as most of the existence and livelihood of locals are based on nature. It’s crucial to be aware of your surrounding and respect the flora and fauna of the island.
Summer in Iceland does not mean heat! The temperatures are very mild and also quite cool. Having warm clothes and protection against the cold winds and water is important. Most of the hiking areas contain huts for resting and protection against harsh weather.
Have you ever been to Iceland? If so, did you go as a family?