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All Things Iceland

All Things Iceland

Written by: Jewells Chambers
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 Discover Iceland’s language, history, culture, & nature©2020 All Things Iceland Social Sciences Travel Writing & Commentary
Episodes
  • 5 Places in Iceland Worth the Detour (That Most Travelers Miss)

    5 Places in Iceland Worth the Detour (That Most Travelers Miss)
    May 4 2026
    There are places in Iceland that are easy to visit. And then there are places that require a bit more effort, but reward you in ways you honestly don’t expect. I’m sharing 5 places across the country that are absolutely worth the detour. These aren’t your typical Golden Circle stops. These are the kinds of places that make people say: “Wait… THIS was in Iceland?!” If you’re planning a trip and want to go beyond the basics, this list is for you. Table of Contents How to Reach These Places (Car & Camper Van Tips)Látrabjarg (Westfjords)Seyðisfjörður (East Iceland)Hveradalir (Highlands)Plan Your Trip with My Iceland MapWestman Islands / Vestmannaeyjar (South Iceland)Siglufjörður (North Iceland)Sample Route Using These 5 DetoursRandom Fact of the EpisodeIcelandic Word of the Episode How to Reach These Places (And Save on Your Rental) Let’s be real for a second. To visit places like these, especially the Westfjords, Highlands, and North Iceland, you’ll need your own vehicle. Public transport won’t get you to most of these locations, and guided tours often don’t go this far off the beaten path. That’s where having the right rental car or camper van makes all the difference. I personally use and recommend: Go Car Rental IcelandGo Campers I’ve partnered with them for years because: They have a wide variety of vehicles (from small cars to fully equipped campers)Their customer service is amazingAnd they make it easy to travel around Iceland confidently How to Save + Get Free Extras When you use my link:gorentals.is/allthingsiceland You’ll automatically get: 7% off your rentalPlus some really helpful extras Here’s exactly what to do: For Go Car Rental: Click the link and enter your travel datesThe 7% discount is automatically appliedWhen you get to “Insurance & Extras”Select 4G WiFiYou’ll see the price does not increase, it stays the same For Go Campers: Click the same link and choose your camperThe 7% discount is automatically appliedUnder the “Sleeping” sectionSelect a sleeping bagAgain, the price stays the same It’s one of those little things that makes a big difference when you’re traveling around Iceland. 1. Látrabjarg (Westfjords) If you’re craving something remote, raw, and wildly beautiful, this is it. Látrabjarg is the westernmost point of Iceland, and is known for its dramatic sea cliffs and incredible birdlife. Why Látrabjarg worth the detour: One of the best places in Iceland to see puffins up closeMassive cliffs stretching for kilometersA true “edge of the world” feeling Important tips: The road can be rough, so take it slowBest visited in summer (June–mid August for puffins)Not recommended in winter, late fall or early spring. You can use a 2wd to get here but a 4×4 makes the trip easier and smoother. This is exactly the type of destination where having the right vehicle matters. 2. Seyðisfjörður (East Iceland) This town feels like stepping into a completely different side of Iceland. The drive into Seyðisfjörður alone is unforgettable. The winding road down a mountain pass into a peaceful fjord surrounded by waterfalls is incredible. What makes Seyðisfjörður special: Eclectic, artistic vibeThe iconic 🌈 rainbow road leading to the blue churchQuiet and scenic atmosphere Easy access: It’s only about 25 minutes from Egilsstaðir, making it a simple but rewarding detour in the East. 3. Hveradalir (Highlands) If you’ve heard of Landmannalaugar, think similar, but quieter and less crowded. Hveradalir is a geothermal wonderland filled with steaming valleys and colorful rhyolite mountains. Why Hveradalir stands out: Incredible views right from the parking lotFewer crowds than other Highland destinationsSurreal, otherworldly landscapes What you need to know: Only accessible in summerA 4×4 vehicle is requiredYour car must be insured for F-roadsNo river crossings needed This is where renting the right type of vehicle becomes essential. Stop Guessing What’s Worth Visiting in Iceland Planning a trip here can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to figure out what’s actually worth the detour. Inside my Iceland Map, I’ve pinned 350+ must-see spots, hidden gems, and practical stops so you can build a trip that flows without second-guessing every decision. Click Here for the Map 4. Vestmannaeyjar – The Westman Islands (South Iceland) The Westman Islands feel like a completely different world. A ferry ride from the south coast takes you to a volcanic island shaped by a powerful 1973 eruption. Why it’s worth visiting: One of the largest puffin colonies in the worldUnique volcanic landscapesIncredible hikingBeluga whale & puffin sanctuary When to go: Summer for puffinsWinter for dramatic scenery 5. Siglufjörður (North Iceland) Siglufjörður is one of those places that feels like a hidden gem. What makes Siglufjörður special: Charming harbor viewsRich fishing historyPeaceful, tucked-away atmosphere ...
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    23 mins
  • Why Thousands Are Visiting Iceland for the Rare 2026 Solar Eclipse

    Why Thousands Are Visiting Iceland for the Rare 2026 Solar Eclipse
    Apr 11 2026
    The 2026 total solar eclipse is already drawing attention from travelers around the world, and for good reason. The last time a total solar eclipse was visible in Iceland was in 1954, and the next one won’t happen again until 2196. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PN4ZKGJ7QYI What Makes a Total Solar Eclipse So Special A total solar eclipse is when the Moon completely covers the Sun. Not partially, not mostly, completely! And when that happens, everything changes. The sky gets dark, like twilight in the middle of the dayTemperatures dropAnd you can see the Sun’s corona, which looks like a glowing white halo But honestly? The technical explanation doesn’t fully capture it. People who have seen total solar eclipses travel across the world to experience them again. Free Iceland 2026 Total Solar Eclipse Guide In this free guide you’ll know where to go for the best chance of seeing totality, how to plan around Iceland’s unpredictable weather, and how to turn this into an unforgettable Iceland adventure. Click Here Why Iceland is So Unique for The 2026 Total Solar Eclipse? The 2026 eclipse path crosses a limited number of places, and Iceland is one of the most accessible and visually stunning locations in that path. Imagine this for a second: You’re standing near a black sand beach or next to a massive waterfall or in the middle of a volcanic landscape…then the sky goes dark. That’s what makes Iceland different. You’re not just watching the eclipse, you’re experiencing it in one of the most dramatic natural environments in the world. On top of that: Iceland has wide open landscapes with unobstructed viewsYou’re never too far from a coastlineAnd depending on where you go, you can avoid huge crowds But to be completely transparent, Iceland also comes with its challenges. Why Planning Early Matters (A LOT) for the 2026 Total Solar Eclipse in Iceland Planning early for this eclipse is not optional—it’s essential. Here’s why: 1. Limited Accommodations Iceland already has limited places to stay. Small towns, fewer hotels, and high demand even in a normal year make in challenging during summer. Now add a once-in-a-lifetime event? Things will book out fast! 2. Unpredictable Weather Icelandic weather changes quickly. Like, very quickly. You could have: Clear skies in one areaAnd full cloud cover just an hour away Which means if you stay in one place and hope for the best, you might miss it. 3. Distances Are Deceptive Iceland looks small on the map, but driving between places often takes longer than people expect. So knowing: Where to base yourselfWhere to go on eclipse dayAnd how to stay flexible …can completely change your experience. Free Help Planning Your Total Solar Eclipse Trip for Iceland? Honestly, this is exactly why I created a free guide for this. I’ve seen how quickly things can get overwhelming when planning a trip here, especially for something as big as a total solar eclipse. So I put together a free 42-page guide to help you feel confident going into this. By the time you finish it, you’ll know: Where to go for the best chance of seeing totality in IcelandHow to plan around Iceland’s unpredictable weatherWhat to book and whenAnd how to turn this into an unforgettable Iceland adventure, not just a stressful chase for a view 👉🏾 Grab the free guide guide here – https://allthingsiceland.com/iceland-total-solar-eclipse-guide-2026/ Random Fact of the Episode The longest possible total solar eclipse on Earth can last up to about 7 minutes. In Iceland for 2026, totality will max be 2 minutes and 13 seconds,which makes timing everything. Icelandic Word of the Episode Sólmyrkvi — Solar Eclipse Share this with a Friend Facebook Email Threads Pinterest Let’s Be Social Youtube Instagram Tiktok Facebook Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.
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    11 mins
  • Iceland’s Most Delicious Holiday – Cream Bun Day (Bolludagur)

    Iceland’s Most Delicious Holiday – Cream Bun Day (Bolludagur)
    Feb 12 2026
    If there were ever a holiday that felt personally designed for me, it’s Bolludagur, Iceland’s cream bun day and, in my opinion, Iceland’s most delicious holiday. Bolludagur takes place every year on the Monday before Lent. And on this day, Iceland collectively agrees to eat an unreasonable amount of cream bun without guilt, without shame, and usually without stopping at just one. What Is a Bolla, Exactly? A bolla is an Icelandic cream bun. Traditionally, it’s made from a light choux-style pastry that’s sliced open, filled generously with whipped cream and sometimes jam, and then topped with chocolate glaze or icing. That’s the classic version, but modern Bolludagur has evolved far beyond that. These days, bakeries get wildly creative with flavors, fillings, and toppings, which is exactly why this day has become such a big deal. Why Bolludagur Is a Thing in Iceland? Bolludagur is part of Iceland’s version of Carnival, leading into Lent. Historically, it was about indulging before a period of restraint, but in true Icelandic fashion, it turned into a full-blown pastry event. How Much Do Cream Buns Cost in Iceland? Before we get into the bakeries, let’s talk price. As of 2026, most Icelandic cream buns fall somewhere between: 575 ISK ($4.70) – 925 ISK ($7.56) per bun Prices vary depending on the bakery, the size, and how elaborate the bun is. This is just an estimate based on current offerings — prices may be higher or lower in the future, so always check directly with the bakery. 5 Places Worth Visiting for Cream Buns in Reykjavík 1. Plantan Kaffihús and Bistro Plantan is a plant-based favorite in Reykjavík, and for Bolludagur they’re going all in with six different cream buns this year: SnickersSwedish SemlaBiscoff CheesecakeClassicMatchaRaspberry If you’re vegan, plant-based, lactose intolerant, or just curious, Plantan is absolutely worth a stop. 2. Brauð & Co. One of Reykjavík’s most recognizable bakeries, Brauð & Co. is offering five varieties: ClassicVanilla NougatYuzu LemonVeganCaramel If you want something that feels both traditional and playful, this is a great place to check out 3. Passion Reykjavík Passion Reykjavík wins for sheer variety. They’re offering 15 different cream buns, which is honestly impressive. Some of their flavors include: After EightHressobolla (rumored “cream bun of the year” for 2026)ClassicCroissant-styleIrishStrawberryCaramelCoconutNóa Kropp (Icelandic candy)OreoPúnd (rum cream with sifted icing sugar)Snickers & BananaTwixValentine’s EditionVegan version If you want options — a lot of options — this is the place. 4. IKEA Yes. IKEA. IKEA in Iceland fully participates in Bolludagur and offers seven cream buns: StrawberryBanana cream & hazelnut butterChocolate & licoriceClassic with chocolate sauceClassic with caramelVegan with chocolateVegan with caramel These are also typically the most affordable cream buns you’ll find. 5. Deig Deig keeps things refined but flavorful with five varieties: Rosehip jamRaspberry jamVanilla almondNutellaPistachio If you like pastries that feel a little more elegant, Deig is a solid choice. Random Fact of the Episode Every year for Bolludagur, over one million cream buns are made and sold across Iceland — making it one of the most pastry-intensive days of the entire year. Icelandic Word of the Episode Bolluvöndur – A decorated stick children use on Bolludagur to playfully “demand” cream buns by tapping their parents and chanting “Bolla! Bolla! Bolla!” Share this with a Friend Pinterest Facebook Email Let’s Be Social Youtube Instagram Tiktok Facebook
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    Less than 1 minute
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