One dip in its geothermal lagoons illuminates that there is lots more to experience in Iceland than its spectacular sky show. Where else can you travel through lava-laced mountains, dine on puffin, reindeer, or sour ram testicles and possibly bump into an elf or troll?

Iceland’s South Coast sparkles with natural beauty unfolding over rolling hills dotted with sheep and horses, glistening glaciers, and geothermal lagoons. “The South Coast of Iceland is incredibly central to accessing a variety of Iceland’s wonders. From waterfalls, ice caves, and black sand beaches to the Golden Circle, it’s an ideal home base for exploring some of the country’s most iconic sights. It’s also a great spot to catch the Northern Lights when in season given its more remote location and less light interference,” says  Eyrún Aníta Gylfadóttir, Hotel Rangá Marketing Manager. 

STAY AT HOTEL RANGÁ

Hotel Rangá is a family-owned and operated countryside lodge located in a region dubbed the adventure capital, 85 miles from Keflavik International Airport, and an hour from the capital city of Reykjavik. The inviting lodge is surrounded by volcanoes and a number of activities for those who love the outdoors which can be explored on horseback, Super Jeep, or even ATV. The hotel is perfectly poised to catch the Northern Lights and its on-site observatory also makes it one of the best places to star gaze. Hotel Rangá features 51cozy rooms, including continent-themed suites, gourmet dining at the acclaimed Restaurant Rangá, and geothermal heated hot tubs.

Linger in geothermal lagoons

Bookend your visit to Iceland with a visit to one of its geothermal lagoons. A visit to a restorative retreat is the perfect way to kick off your visit and relax before you return to reality. The iconic Blue Lagoon was selected as one of National Geographic’s 25 Wonders of the World. Your body will delight in experiencing its nine million liters of geothermal seawater. Treat yourself to a five-hour visit to the Retreat, a delicious and peerless experience.

Sky Lagoon is located just minutes from Reykjavik’s vibrant city center.  Features of the geothermal lagoon include an ocean-side 75-meter, (246 ft), infinity edge showcasing expansive ocean and sky views, a sauna boasting Iceland’s largest window, and an overall design inspired by historic turf houses. 

GLACIERS, ICE CAVES & MORE

Southcoast Adventures offers various tours to discover Mother Nature’s wonders in Icelandic glaciers. Of course, you’ll have breathtaking images in and around the glaciers, but the experience of navigating through an ice cave donned in a helmet and crampons is truly exhilarating.

Whether you jump on one of the purebred Icelandic horses or just hang out with the affable animal, you will be enchanted. Its unique gait, friendly nature, and glorious colors have been enjoyed in Iceland for over a thousand years. A great place to experience horses for all ages is Skeiðvellir. 

Friðheimar is a must-visit greenhouse to visit (be sure to make a reservation) where they yield a ton of tomatoes every day! Be sure to make a reservation for lunch where you can enjoy a sumptuous buffet including their signature tomato soup plus delicacies like tomato ice cream, tomato beer, and tómata Espresso.

There are myriad impressive waterfalls gushing water and creating rainbows throughout Iceland. The South Coast has a few iconic ones to witness including Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss, & Gljúfrabúi.On your Golden Circle tour be sure to include the iconic Geysir and Strokkur in the Haukadalur valley on Route 35. 

While you are in the area, here are 10 more spots to check out!

• Eyjafjallajökull Glacier and Volcano
• Fjallabak Nature Reserve
• Vík Black Sand Beaches
• Keldur, Iceland’s Oldest House
• Landmannalaugar Hot Springs
• Mt. Hekla Volcano
• Mýrdalsjökull Glacier and Katla Volcano
• Þórsmörk National Park
• The Secret Lagoon
• Westman Islands Islands
• Skógar Folk Museum

www.visiticeland.com