May 29 - Natural Attractions in Iceland

Two of Iceland’s best known natural attractions lie within fairly easy driving distance from the capital city of Reykjavik. Most tours would feature a stop at both the Strokkur Geysir (that is the Icelandic spelling of geyser) and the Gullfoss Falls. We were able to see both as a day trip from Hverageroi.

I liked the Strokkur Geyser for a couple of reasons. First, it erupted regularly and frequently at intervals of only seven or eight minutes. Secondly, the fenced off area was quite close to the geyser itself. In fact, if you happened to stand downwind at the time of the eruption, you might find yourself being drenched with a spray of hot water. This was quite different from our visit to Yellowstone last summer. There, the crowds were kept well away from the eruptions of Old Faithful – so far in fact that I was barely able to see it at all.

I also liked the Gullfoss Waterfall, which was just five minutes drive up the road from Strokkur Geyser. At the Falls, we walked to both the upper and lower viewing points. I’m not sure just which vantage point I liked better although I think that the closer view was from the lower platform.

There are two pictures with this post. The first shows me standing in the foreground with Strokkur erupting in the background. The landscape looks quite bleak and barren.

Sue in front of Strokkur

The second picture was taken at the upper viewing platform at Gullfos Falls. I am wearing a yellow raincoat and an orange toque. Both items of clothing were necessary that day because it was quite cold. In fact, I was wishing that I had worn my woolen mitts before we set out on our walk to the falls. It was spitting rain and the wind was blowing.

Sue in front of Gullfos Falls