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HCX Travel Guide: Winter Escape to Iceland

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Exeter chapter.

With deadlines on our doorsteps, procrastination reaching new extremes and the Christmas countdown moving too slowly, nothing seems more tempting than an escape. Look no further than a stunning and picturesque location just under 4 hours away, via a very reasonably priced EasyJet flight from nearby Bristol airport.

To explore
 The Golden Circle

For those with a sense of adventure, the Golden Circle offers visitors the chance to travel around south-western Iceland and witness a selection of Iceland’s most breath taking features. The well-known route includes Gullfoss Waterfall, otherwise known as ‘the golden falls’, the geysers ‘Strokkur’ and ‘Geysir’ in the Haukadalur geothermal valley and Þingvellir national park, home to Iceland’s largest natural lake in Iceland and the crest of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. This is a great way to see some of the country’s renowned beauty.

To relax
The Blue Lagoon

Enter an oasis of relaxation and bathe in the tranquil geothermal waters of the blue lagoon. Holding over 6 million litres of mineral rich water, the lagoon is the perfect place to wash away your stress. Pamper yourself and splash out for one of their spa treatments.

To excite
Mt. Hlíðarfjall

Adrenaline junkies can find their fix on Mt. HlĂ­Ă°arfjall. Located in the north of Iceland, the 1,100m high mountain is home to HlĂ­Ă°arfjall Ski Resort. Offering a collection of runs to suit every ability, the slopes offer snowsporters something different to the classic scenery of the Alps.

To amaze
the Northern Lights

Iceland is one of the special places on Earth where you can witness the spectacular ‘aurora borealis’. Recently ranked within Vogue magazine 6 amazing places to view the northern lights is SkagafjörĂ°ur a scenic bay on the north coast. Spend nights chasing the dancing lights, with Iceland’s meteorological office posting frequent forecasts. Just ensure you are looking for nature’s finest light display in clear dark skies with cold temperatures between mid-September and mid-April.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure, Iceland offers a range of activities to cater for the perfect Winter escape.

 

Photo Credits

www.airpano.com

www.icelandcomplete.is

www.visiticeland.com

www.icelandwintergames.com

www.extremeiceland.is

Deputy Travel Editor 2015-2016 A third year geographer with constant wanderlust.