In continuing with our Iceland theme – due to Iceland Express, operated by Astraeus Airlines, flying out of Winnipeg starting this June – I thought I would list off some of the country’s premier destinations and must-see attractions. From natural wonders to picturesque villages to whale watching off of Iceland’s coast, there is plenty to do in this small country.

For pictures of these attractions and other parts of Iceland, check out the following sites:

http://www.icelandtouristboard.com/photo_gallery/

http://visiticeland.com/photogallery.asp?cat_id=548

The Blue Lagoon

Look at any Icelandic tourism site, and the Blue Lagoon is at the top of the list. A geothermal spa full of natural ingredients like salts, silica and blue green algae – hence the colour and name – make this a revitalizing and relaxing experience unlike any other.

www.bluelagoon.is

Snæfellsnes peninsula

A popular setting in Icelandic folklore, the Snaefellsjokull glacier was the entrance to the earth’s core, in Jules Verne’s popular novel Journey to the Center of the Earth. It can be seen from the capital Reykjavik, and is labeled a national park.

Gullfoss

The largest waterfall in Europe, Gullfoss – or Golden Falls – is a display of natural wonder. Glacial water flows down these cliffs at 140 m³/s in the summer, and 80 m³/s in the winter. Considered a must-see when visiting Iceland.

Lake Myvatn

A region in the northern part of Iceland, Lake Myvatn and the surrounding area is a hub of geological activity. Recent volcanic activity has shaped some spectacular natural wonders, including giant lava pillars, boiling mud pits – yes, its so hot they actually boil – and a barren lava field where the Apollo 11 team trained for the moon walks. The lake itself is a conservation area, but is the site of the best salmon and trout fishing in the country.

Whale Watching

From humpbacks to killer whales, to dolphins and porpoises, excursions depart from all over Iceland. Some of the best whale watching is said to be in the north, and the season runs from May to September.