Fall in Iceland

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>> what to wear in Iceland in fall

The Golden Circle

Iceland’s most famous attractions (other than the Blue Lagoon, which can also be visited year round), the Golden Circle includes Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall and Geysir. The roads are mostly paved and well-maintained so if you won’t want to join a tour, it’s easy to drive yourself. As it gets closer to winter, just be aware of limited hours of daylight and dress warmly and in sturdy shoes – the sloping path to the Gullfoss viewpoint can be at times either very muddy, covered in snow, or slick with ice.

Horseback riding

The adorable stout and friendly Icelandic horse was built for the country’s climate. They’re surefooted in all conditions and have a thick coat of fur to keep them warm, which means you can go riding any time of year. The farm you book with will also provide you with a warm suit that will keep you cozy in any conditions.

Diving in Silfra

When the temperatures are in the high 30′s to mid 40′s, the last thing you might be thinking about it diving or snorkeling. But you can do it all year round at Thingvellir, where the Mid-Atlantic rift runs through the park and under the crystal clear Silfra lake. If you’re dive certified you can descend into the crack between the two tectonic plates; if not, don a dry suit and you can float above, staying surprisingly warm and dry.

Diving, dogsledding, cave exploring and ATV driving are just a few of the other outdoor activities available all year round.

Explore Reykjavik

The natural wonders of Iceland are the main draw, but that doesn’t mean you should overlook Reykjavik. With plenty of museums, great dining, a lively nightlife, and excellent shopping, it’s a worthy attraction in its own right, so plan to spend at least a day in the city.

Take a day tour

If you visit Iceland later in the season and are worried about driving, or if you simply don’t want to rent a car, there are dozens of day tours to choose from.  You can explore the regions nearby, get up close to glaciers and volcanoes, or participate in outdoor adventures like hiking or snowmobiling, all within an hour or two’s drive of Reykjavik. If you’d prefer to see another side of the country, you can even do an AirIceland day trip, flying to  the Westman Islands, Isafjordur in the Westfjords, Akureyri in north Iceland, or even to Greenland and then back again in a single day.

Photo by axelkr

In September, the Northern Lights make their first appearance; in the beginning of the month you’ll still have some nice, sunny days with highs around 10°C (50°F) and lows around 5°C (40°F). October sees the most rain and temps begin to dip further, with averages ranging from 2.2-6.8°C (35-44°F). By November, winter has surely arrived, with temperatures ranging from 3.4 to -1.3°C (30-44°F) and snow beginning to blanket many areas.

The hours of sunlight each day also decrease in fall. In September the sun rises around 6:30am and sets around 7:30pm. By November sunrise has been delayed until 9:30am, while the sun sets again by about 4pm.

>> Read more about weather in Iceland
>> Iceland in September
>> Iceland in October
>> Iceland in November

Though the weather isn’t as nice as it is in summer, luckily you can still do most of the same activities in fall that you can in warmer months. Go horseback riding, soak in the Blue Lagoon, visit waterfalls and glaciers and explore caves and black sand beaches. You can even snorkel (all year round) at the rift at Thingvellir National Park.

And the good news is that you’ll save money, not only on all these activities and your accommodation, but also on the flight over. While flights from the east coast of the US can be $800-$1000 (or more) in summer, as the fall creeps on, prices get lower. Flights to Iceland in September might range from $500-$600, while in November you can often score a package that includes flights and accommodations for under $450. Hotels and tour operators generally switch to off season prices by the first week in September so you’ll save even more.

>> Read more about things to do in Iceland

Packing for Iceland in fall isn’t much more challenging that summer, though there will be a bit of fluctuation depending on when in the fall you visit. In September you may be able to get away with a lighter jacket while by November you’ll want to pack a warm winter coat. No matter when you come, bank on layers, a good pair of shoes or boots for outdoor activity, and a hat, gloves, and scarf.

>> Read more on what to wear in Iceland in fall

There are a few festivals and events that take place in the autumn. In September, farmers round up their sheep and horses from the mountains in the Rettir, in which at many farms, guests are invited to participate. September also sees the Reykjavik Film Festival featuring films from around the world. And the most popular event for music lovers takes place in October, when the annual Iceland Airwaves Music Festival comes to town.

>> Read more on festivals and events in Iceland

Photo by DrBurtoni

In truth, there’s not much to see and do here, yet Vik remains a popular stop on the Ring Road thanks to its beautiful black sand beaches and rocky cliffs, which are home to thousands of puffins in summer. Vik is also a convenient base for exploring more of south Iceland.

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Car

If you are coming from Reykjavik, the easiest way is to come by car – either as part of a tour or on your own. The distance is about 180 kilometers, which at a decent clip would take about three hours. But this is Iceland, and you’re probably going to want to stop along the way to take photos of those black sand beaches, or of the majestic Seljalandsfoss waterfall, or of any other sites that strike your fancy. So allow more like four hours to make the trip, more in inclement weather.

By bus

In summer, buses leave from Reykjavik to Vik once per day. The ride takes about 4 hours. Winter buses run less frequently but take less time (thanks to fewer stops).  The fare is about $50 US.

>> Read more about getting around in Iceland

From where I go for late night eats to what I do when I’m feeling cash-strapped, you’ll find all my best tips for seeing Reykjavik like a local in my answers. So if you’re dying to know which celebrity the city would be (hint: she’s pretty and feisty) or which song most reminds of Reykjavik, click on over and read it here: I Heart My City: Katie’s Reykjavik.

Or read more about Reykjavik:

• Museums in Reykjavik
• Attractions in Reykjavik
• Accommodation in Reykjavik
• Dining and Drinking in Reykjavik

Photo by Alex J. White

But if beautiful vistas and the raw power of nature are what set your pulse to racing, you may find that Iceland in fact is a surprisingly prefect honeymoon destination, with lots of romantic things to do. If you’re looking for a romantic hotel or one perfect for a honeymoon in Iceland, here are a few suggestions.

Hotel Budir – Snaefellsness Peninsula

Located on the Snaefellsness Peninsula on Iceland’s west coast (just a few hours from Reykjavik), Hotel Budir is in one of the most spectacular settings in the country. The spacious rooms all have tvs, dvd players, hair dryers, clock radios and wireless internet. Some have clawfoot tubs and leather club chairs. Breakfast is included, there’s free parking and a renowned hotel onsite, and the hotel is close to activities like sailing, horseback riding, hiking, golf , glacier tours, fly fishing, and mountain-jeep trips. But the real draw is the location. Each room has views of the fjords, mountains or glacier, and in winter, it’s a prime viewing spot for the northern lights.

Winter rates for double rooms start at 19,500 ISK ($168 US); summer rates start at 28,500 ISK.

Glymur Resort – Southwest Iceland

About 45 minutes outside of Reykjavik, Glymur is ideal for those who want to see the beauty of Iceland without venturing too far from the capital. The 22 executive rooms at the Glymur Resort all have high speed wireless internet access, flat screen tvs, telephones,  hairdryers and  coffee machines, and are styled with modern Italian leather furniture and original art. And each one boasts a view of either the fjords or mountains of  southwest Iceland. The suites are even more luxurious, with massage bath tubs, flat screen tvs in the bedroom and living room, adjustable beds with massage, espresso machines and stereo equipment. And for the ultimate indulgence, spring for the villas, with have leather sofas, large screen tvs, dining tables and  verandas with hot thermal Jacuzzis.

Summer room rates start at 249 euros. Summer prices on the villas range from 199-439 euros, with the price decreasing the longer you stay.

Hotel Ranga – South Iceland

One of the “Great Hotels of the World,” Hotel Ranga (top picture) offers 51 rooms and suites in the countryside of South Iceland. Superior and deluxe rooms offer telephone, bathtub and shower,  bathrobes and slippers, desk, cabinet, mini bar, hairdryer,  heating, tv and free wifi Internet, with rooms facing either the riverside or Mt. Hekla . Most have indoor or outdoor Jacuzzis. There are also several suites in the “World Pavilion” which are designed to represent locations around the world. There’s black and white Antarctica (complete with penguins) and Asia’s simplistic Cherry Blossom Suite.

The hotel – the only 4-star hotel in Iceland – is about an hour away from Reykjavik and offers one of Iceland’s best hotels. Summer room rates start at 280 euros.

Kaldbak-Kot Cottages – North Iceland

Few people would categorize the Kaldbak-Kot Cottages as luxurious. The beds and bedding are comfortable but not lavish, the couches clean but slightly worn, the bathrooms small but adequate. Yet, if you can appreciate a more rustic charm, these log cabins and their spectacular fjord-and-mountain views might just be your idea of the perfect honeymoon accommodation. There are 18 cottages scattered across the property, each one facing west  and providing beautiful sunset views each night. Just a few kilometers (about a 15 minute walk) from the small town of Husavik, their porches and secluded hot tubs also make for prime Northern Lights viewing spots. Rates range from 95-135 euros for the one bedroom cottages; larger cottages are available as well.

Room with a View – Reykjavik

While there are other luxury hotels in Reykjavik, Room with a View is my pick for the best for a romantic trip or a honeymoon. Located right in the city center, the hotel’s rooms and apartments offer cd players, tvs, hairdryers, irons, free wifi, access to common Jacuzzis and a sauna, and – true to the hotel’s name – lovely views of the city. All apartments have private bathrooms and kitchenettes; some have dining rooms and Jacuzzi tubs. All are designed with high-end appliances and modern furnishings, and sleep 2 to 10 people. Summer rates start at 16,900 ISK.

>> Read about other luxury accommodations in Iceland

Photo by:  tompagenet, Tania Ho

If you’re looking for upscale accommodation, check out the chain of Icelandair Hotels scattered around the country. There are several around the capital: two in Reykjavik, one near the airport, and two just outside the city. There’s also one in the north near Akureyri, one near Vatnajokull glacier, and one in east Iceland in Egilsstadir. Here’s how they compare.

Reykjavík Natura

One of Icelandair’s Reykjavik accommodations, the four-star Reykjavík Natura (formerly Hotel Loftleidir)is near the Pearl, close to Nauthólsvík thermal beach and the domestic airport. It would be about a 25 minute walk into the city center, though the hotel also runs a free shuttle. There’s a movie theatre, restaurant, spa, bike rental and pool onsite, and the 220 rooms are spacious with modern decor and conveniences like tvs, hair dryers, and wi-fi.


Reykjavik Marina

The other city center accommodation, the Reykjavik Marina hotel will open in April of 2012 with 111 rooms, a gym, bar and restaurant. Located in a three-story building on Myrargata, it will be close to the shops, restaurants, galleries and harbor of Reykjavik.

Hotel Keflavik

On the Reykjanes Peninsula, a 15 minute drive from the Blue Lagoon, the Hotel Keflavik offers excellent accommodation for those with a very early flight out of Iceland. The four-star hotel is five minutes from the Keflavík International Airport and offers a bar and cafe, sauna and fitness center, free wireless internet, free parking, and free transport to the airport after your stay.


>> Read about other hotels near the Blue Lagoon

Hotel Hengill

Close to the UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park and the geothermal area on the slopes of Mt. Hengill, a 30-minute drive from Reykjavík, this three-star hotel offers a fitness room, sauna, restaurant and outdoor hot tub. The 22 rooms each have phone, TV, radio and wireless Internet acces, along with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.


Hotel Akureyri

In the north of Iceland, in the country’s second largest city, Hotel Akureyri makes a great base for exploring Lake Myvatn, Dettifoss, Husavik, and the other attractions of northern Iceland.  The hotel offers a restaurant, ski storage room, a bar, and a heated pool and a fitness center within a two-minute walk.

Hotel Hamar

One hour away from Reykjavik, tourists interested in golf can stay at the Hotel Hamar, which offers an 18-hole golf course in West Iceland. The three star hotel also offers a restaurant and bar, and outdoor hot tubs, and the 30 ground floor guestrooms offer modern amenities like hair dryers, tvs and wireless internet.


Hotel Herad

In the east Iceland town of Egilsstadir, the Hotel Herad offers stylish and comfortable accommodation close to some of Iceland’s best outdoor activities like  bird watching, fishing and hiking. The three-star hotel has a bar, restaurant and 24-hour room service, and the 60 ensuite rooms are modern and spacious, decorated with sleekly designed furniture and muted colors.

Hotel Klaustur

Those looking to explore the glaciers of Iceland can stay at Hotel Klauster, which is located mid-way between Myrdalsjokull glacier and Vatnajokull in southern Iceland. The three-star  hotel offers a restaurant and bar, and easy access to a local swimming pool and 9-hole golf course. Standard and superior rooms are available, as well as spacious suites.

Hotel Fludir

On hour away from Reykjavik, the three-star, single-story Hotel Fludir is located in an ideal stop-off point in South Iceland, close to the Golden Circle, excellent hiking spots and outdoor activities like white-water rafting and horseback riding. The 32 guest rooms are all ensuite, with hardwood floors and access to the hotel garden.

Rates at each hotel vary, but expect to pay anywhere from $180 to $350 per night, and even more in high season. However, as Icelandair owns the hotels, it often offers affordable packages that include flight and three nights of hotel for under $600 per person, particularly in off-season.

Because this area is so remote and doesn’t see much tourism aside from late June to August, there are very few accommodation options, and even fewer that are open year round. Most places are very basic, offering sleeping bag accommodation and shared bathrooms only. You’ll find most options, especially for hotels, in the main city of Isafjordur. Outside the city there are scattered huts, hostels, and farmstays. If you want to be able to walk to a small grocery shop and choose from a handful of dining options, it’s best to base yourself in Isafjordur.

Here are a few suggestions for places to stay in the Westfjords.

Hostels and huts

There are three Hosteling International Hostels in Iceland’s Westfjords: one in Bildudalur (open all year), one in Korpudalur and one in Reykholar. There is also an ITA hut in Norðurfjörðu, which costs 4500 ISK, sleeps up to 12 people and has a full kitchen (must be booked in advance). There are several other smaller hostels and guesthouses which offer sleeping bag accommodation in the summer. You can find some here.

Guesthouses and farmstays

A step above hostels, guesthouses in the region often offer free breakfast and have private rooms for those who don’t want the dorm experience. You’ll definitely pay for the added comforts though. At Gamla Guesthouse in Isafjordur, double rooms go for 18700 ISK. Farmstays also offer a higher level of comfort; Icelandic Farm Holidays works with farmers and guesthouse owners around Iceland to offer comfortable bed and breakfast accommodations, often on working farms. The number of beds, facilities and price can very greatly (compare the cost of contacting the property directly as well) but for a longer term stay, these can be a great value.

Hotels

If you’d prefer a full-service hotel, you only have a few options in the Westfjords, and don’t come expecting the Four Seasons as you’ll be disappointed by the often basic (some might say character-less) decor found in most Icelandic hotels, especially for the high price. Summer rooms at the Hotel Isafjordur, for example, go for 26000 ISK (double with bath).  The Hotel Latrabjarg, near the cliffs, offers slightly more charm for 175 euros per night for a double room. The Hotel Djupavik is slightly more affordable; double rooms start at 9400 ISK and sleeping bag accommodation is also available.

Photo by fionamclaren

Teeter on the cliffs of Látrabjarg

Látrabjarg is the westernmost point in Iceland and, excluding the Azores islands, the westernmost point of Europe. At the end of the visible land, Iceland plunges into the sea, with cliff faces that reach more than a kilometer high. The cliffs are also famous for bird-watching, as the extremely popular Puffin sits quietly and calmly on the ledge at night, content and happy from its evening meal. Visitors crawl towards the cliff face to come face to face with both danger and serene wildlife.

Kayak in the fjords

The Westfjords are as connected to the water as the cliff-faces that it shapes. Take to the sea on a kayak to explore the many inlets in the region. Some of the more popular areas is in the region’s primary city of Ísafjörður, often an entry point into the region as well as a harbor for incoming North Atlantic cruises. While much of the kayaking isn’t technically or physically challenging, its one more way to connect yourself to the sea.

Gaze at the Westfjords’ finest waterfall, Dynjandi

Deep in the western Wesftjords cascades Dynjandi, the poster-child of Westfjords’ tourism. The waterfall is one of the most photographed sights in all of Iceland, with its wide beginnings getting the most attention. But the waterfall is actually an impressive collection of more powerful, smaller waterfalls that make for a great view at the base. Take pictures at the bottom before traversing up the side of the mountain to get a view at the many different variations of waterfall before coming to the foot of the wide area of Dynjandi. Stand in its spray and feel its power.

Overlook the fjords from atop a mountain

The Westfjords are an amazing collection of cliff faces and spectacular views. Both of which can be better appreciated from high-up, so pull your hiking boots on tight and find a not too scarily steep slope to clamber up. It may take you a few hours to reach one of the ledge bowls that push into the cliff, but once you’re there, you’ll have amazing views of the sea and the valley below.

>> Read about getting to the Westfjords

Kerrin is the writer, content manager, editor, adventurer, and traveler for Wanderfly.com, a travel inspiration site that helps travelers find great destination ideas based on their budgets and interests. Follow Kerrin on Twitter @kerrinsheldon and check out his writing and photos at blog.wanderfly.com. Then find your next trip at Wanderfly!

The Reykjavik Welcome card gives the user free admission to all of Reykjavík’s thermal pools, free admission to several museums and attractions, unlimited travel on the Reykjavík bus system, discounts at certain shops and restaurants, and free internet access.

Included in free admission is access to:
7 Reykjavík City pools (around 450 ISK)
The National History Museum (normally 1000 ISK)
The Culture House (normally 700 ISK, free on Wednesdays)
All 3 location of the Reykjavik Art Museum (normally 1000 ISK each)
The Reykjavik 871 +/-2 Settlement Exhibition (normally 1000 ISK)
The Reykjavík City Museum (normally 1000 ISK)
The Reykjavík Maritime Museum (normally 1000 ISK)
The Reykjavík Family park and farm animal zoo (normally 700 ISK)
The ferry to Viðey Island (normally 1000 ISK)
Free Internet Access at The Centre

>> Read more about museums in Reykjavik

The card costs 1900 ISK for 24 hours (so if you plan on going to two of the pricier museums, taking a bus and checking your internet in one day, it’s a great deal). At 2400 ISK for 48 hours and 2900 for 72 hours, it’s an even better deal; if you go to 2-3 of the more expensive museums, ride the bus several times, check your email and visit a city pool, you’ll definitely get your money’s worth.

The card is sold at the Reykjavik Tourist Information Centre (Aðalstræti 2), the Iceland Travel Mart (at Hotel Loftleiðir, Hotel Nordica, Radisson Hotel Saga and Bankastræti 2), the BSÍ Bus Terminal, the Hafnarfjörður Tourist Info Centre, the Youth Hostel and Campsite in Laugardalur, the National History Museum, and the Maritime Museum.

Along with the free admissions offered, card holders also get discounts of 10-25% at 66°North, Elding Whale Watching, Ishestar Riding Tours, The Viking Souvenir Shop, Iceland Excursions and many more.

If you’re going to Reykjavik, the savings really make sense to pick up the discount card.

>> Read more on shopping in Reykjavik

Photo by BeechwoodPhotography

During December, the sun rises around 10:50am each day and sets just after 3pm; while the dark days might be a depressing thought, some travelers may find the great savings and lack of crowds make up for the compressed days.

Prices on  flights to Iceland in December – with the exception of right around the holidays – can also be much cheaper than during summer. Deals can put the price as low as $350-$50 round trip (which often includes a few nights of hotel) as compared to $700-$1000 from the US  during peak summer season. Off-season discounts are also offered on hotels, car rentals and some tours.

>> more on weather in Iceland

Many of the same outdoor activities available in summer are also possible during winter months, though you’ll have much less time to enjoy them during the daylight! In December you can go horseback riding, see the Golden Circle sights, explore caves, go dog sledding, see waterfalls, and even go  snorkeling. December is also a great time to try to spot the Northern Lights. Most areas right around Reykjavik are accessible even in a compact rental car, though other more rural areas may require a 4WD vehicle. You cannot access the interior highlands at all.

December visitors should pack for winter with a warm and waterproof jacket and other winter gear like hat, gloves,  and good boots.

>> more on what to wear in Iceland in winter

The Christmas season kicks off in Iceland on December 12, when the 13 Yule-Lads (naughty Santas with quirky personality traits) come to visit and cause  mischief in the towns. On Christmas Eve, Iceland is very quiet as people celebrate with family, but in the days leading up to the holiday you’ll find a festive atmosphere and plenty of Christmas lights.  On December 31, Icelander’s put on one of the world’s best New year’s Eve parties,  lighting thousands of fireworks into the sky at the stroke of midnight. Afterwards, many Icelanders hit the clubs, partying until the morning.

>> more on holidays and events in Iceland

Photo by zophonias