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Iceland is an incredible place at what feels like the end of the earth. Landing in this freezing country (not as cold as Greenland, which is ironic!) makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale world where giants and old gods should be roaming the earth. If romance is on your mind while planning your Icelandic holiday, follow our advice and try out these five incredible romantic destinations. You’ll be wowed by almost unnaturally beautiful scenery, the unique Scandinavian culture that dominates these locations, and the rich history and myths that combine to make Iceland an incomparable destination.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Known as “Iceland in miniature,” Snæfellsnes is one place where you can experience many of the country’s best aspects. This peninsula on the Western Coast is famous for the glacier-capped volcano that watches over it, the Martian-looking lava fields, and the gorgeous, typically Nordic fishing villages peppered across it.
Here, you and your other half can learn about the legends carved out of the region’s culture at Arnarstapi Village — the small town is steeped in it. If you crave wide open spaces more than small towns, take a day trip to Kirkjufell Mountain, one of the shoot locations for Game Of Thrones, and marvel at the incredible scenery together. After your daily activities, relax together at the Lýsuhólslaug swimming pool, one of the most romantic destinations in the region. Here, the deliciously warm water is heated by natural geothermal energy, and the high mineral content does wonders for your skin.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Sleeping beside the fishing village Vik í Myrdal lies a beach that looks like the back of an ancient dragon. The black sand beach of Reynisfjara is another widely known sight that you shouldn’t miss on your romantic Icelandic holiday. Huge basalt stacks of rock tower overhead while the Atlantic Ocean crashes onto these gothic-looking sands, and the sight is something you can’t describe unless you’ve seen it first hand.
The best way to get there is to rent a car and drive yourself — it’s about 2 hours from Reykjavik if that’s where you’re staying. Plan to see the beach at sunset or sunrise (check the times as they vary radically throughout the year) as it’s at its most dramatic. If you like to take photos or videos to record your travels, there could not be a more Instagram photo-perfect location than a black sand beach.
Solheimajokull Glacier
This one is for the lovebirds who love a little adventure in the great outdoors. Solheimajokull is one of the more accessible glaciers in Iceland, and the scenery you get to experience when you hike is like something from another world. One thing to note here is that you and your partner should never venture onto the glacier without the necessary equipment or being accompanied by a reliable, experienced guide.
A good guide can take you ice climbing, which may not sound like an ideal date, but the view at the top will definitely change your mind. If you visit around March, you’ll have the pleasure of being able to access the ice cave together — a perfect souvenir photo op.
The Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is one of the better-known destinations on our list and is famously romantic. Another geothermal spa, but this time on a far grander scale, the Blue Lagoon is located in the southwest of the country, near Grindavik. It’s known worldwide for its milky, almost iridescent blue waters, which have incredible healing properties.
Soaking in this heavenly, warm water, you and your partner can stare up at the black Nordic skies (you may visit at night at certain times of the year), relax completely, and dream of all the adventures you’ve yet to have. Bring your swimsuit (the Lagoon has a towel rental facility), and book before you arrive, especially in the high seasons. You can stay as long as you like once you’ve paid for your entrance. You can book one of the private pools if you want a little bit of a couple time or hang out in the community pool.
Dyrholaey Rock Cliffs and Arches
There is more than one beach worth your attention in Iceland, and this one also has fantastic, unique views to offer to love-struck travelers. Dyrhólaey is famous not only for its dramatic rock arch but also for the stunning array of wildlife that lives on the coast.
The name translates to Door Hill Island because it was once a lone spit of land off the coast before the Icelandic volcanoes connected it to the mainland. From the top of the cliffs, you’ll be treated to truly breathtaking views of the black sand beaches along that coast. To the North, you can see the creeping glacier Mýrdalsjökull, which conceals the active volcano Katla.
Iceland — A Romantic Wonderland
Anywhere is romantic when you are with the one you love, and Iceland offers that rugged yet luxurious air to your visit as a couple. If you take our advice and book these experiences and locations when you set out on your Icelandic adventure, it’ll be one of the most romantic moments of your life.
