VIKINGS AND VOLCANOES: BUSTING ICELANDIC MYTHS

Introduction:

Visiting Iceland is like stepping into a geography lesson full of volcanoes, glaciers, geysers, and lava fields. Yet, beyond its extraordinary natural beauty, many misconceptions shroud this mystical land of fire and ice. These myths, rooted in history and popular culture, often overshadow the true allure of Iceland. Let’s debunk some of these Icelandic myths and discover the fascinating truths that contribute to Iceland’s unique charm.

1. Iceland Is Always Cold:

With ‘Ice’ in its name, the assumption is natural, however, it’s misleading. Despite its location just below the Arctic Circle, Iceland’s climate is relatively mild, thanks to the Gulf Stream that follows warm air and water from the Caribbean. Winter temperatures hover around freezing while summer brings surprisingly warm weather, with temperatures often reaching 20-25°C (68-77°F), making it a great time for exploring puffin colonies, blooming lupine fields, and luminous midnight sun phenomena.

2. The Whole Country Is Covered In Ice:

Another myth courtesy of the name. Iceland is a striking mix of landscapes. While 11% of the country is indeed covered by glacial ice, lush green fields, black sand beaches, geothermal hot springs, and striking geysers make up the rest. Witness Vatnajokull, Europe’s largest glacier, juxtaposed with fiery volcanic craters, like Eldgja, and you’ll understand the “fire and ice” nickname.

3. No Trees Exist In Iceland:

Iceland was once largely forested. However, Viking settlers deforested much of it for farming and as a source of wood. Today, you will find small woodlands like Hallormsstadaskogur and Vaglaskogur – living proof of Icelandic reforestation efforts. These enchanting thin-barked birch trees form ethereal wooded habitats, adding a quiet magic to the Icelandic landscapes.

4. Iceland’s Cuisine Is Inaccessible:

While traditional dishes like fermented shark or boiled sheep’s head can be challenging for some, Iceland offers a wide range of culinary delights. Freshly caught Atlantic cod, hearty Icelandic rye bread, smooth skyr yoghurt, and tasty hot dogs (pylsur) are essential culinary experiences for every visitor.

5. It’s Dark (Or Light) All The Time:

Yes, Iceland experiences extreme daylight fluctuations. The winter solstice brings nearly 24 hours of darkness, while summer counters with the midnight sun phenomenon. However, the transitional seasons (spring and autumn) have reasonably even daylight and darkness hours, making them ideal times to visit.

6. Iceland Is Overrun By Tourists:

Despite tourism increasing in recent years, Iceland still offers much undiscovered beauty. Escape the crowds by visiting the Westfjords region – a remote, rugged landscape of swirly fjords, towering cliffs, and soothing hot springs. For a complete off-the-grid experience, consider the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve – an uninhabited wilderness area accessible only by boat or long hikes.

7. Everyone Believes In Elves:

While a sizable percentage of Icelanders maintain an open mind about the existence of elves (Huldufólk), not everyone necessarily believes in them. This enchanting folklore element often becomes a charming nod to the nation’s cultural fabric, adding an extra layer of mystique to Iceland’s hauntingly beautiful landscape.

Experiencing The Real Iceland:

Visiting Iceland is not only about ticking locations off a checklist. It’s about immersing yourself in the sensory experience – feeling the crackle of lava under your feet, smelling the sulfur-scented streams near a geyser, or tasting the crisp freshness of glacial water. It’s about respecting and understanding the land, the cultural norms, and the extraordinary forces of nature.

To make the most of your Icelandic adventure, prepare for the weather. Layered clothing, a decent raincoat, good hiking boots, and a woolly hat are a must for this Nordic retreat. Plan your trip based on what you want to see, whether it’s the Northern Lights (winter), puffin breeding season (summer), or lesser crowds (shoulder seasons).

Discover the spirit of Iceland where folklore meets real life, fire meets ice, and ancient traditions coexist seamlessly with modern innovation. As you soak in a geothermal pool under the ethereal glow of the Northern Lights, myths will fade away, leaving you with the raw, untouched magnificence of Iceland.

Conclusion:

Iceland is not merely a destination. It’s a journey into a land where everyday is a testament to the power of nature, the endurance of its people, and the unforgettable impressions left on every traveler. If there’s one myth we want to perpetuate, it’s this: once you’ve experienced the mystical beauty of Iceland, you’ll always long to return. Whether you’re yearning solitude amid dramatic landscapes or to delve into a rich cultural tapestry, you’ll find a piece of yourself in Iceland’s story. Experience it yourself. Let the myths dissolve, and let Iceland reveal its true essence to you. After all, the allure of Iceland isn’t bound to the myths it inspires, it’s found in the breathtaking reality it offers!