Iceland 

From steaming hot springs and dormant volcanoes to ancient glaciers and lush pastures, Iceland is a land of untamed natural beauty—a place where the echoes of Viking chants still seem to linger. This extraordinary island, spanning just 103,000 km², weaves together an awe-inspiring collection of geological wonders found nowhere else on Earth. Where else can you scuba dive in crystal-clear glacial waters between two continental plates or be lowered into the magma chamber of a dormant volcano? 

Shaped by the relentless forces of lava, fire, and ice, Iceland’s dramatic landscapes resemble something out of another world—moonscapes of hardened lava, towering waterfalls, geothermal lakes, and dazzling ice caves have long captured the imagination of Hollywood filmmakers. But beyond the cinematic scenery, Iceland is steeped in folklore, with tales of elves, fairies, and trolls woven into its cultural fabric. 

With a population of just 375,000, Iceland remains one of the least densely populated countries on Earth. Two-thirds of its people are scattered across windswept coastal villages and towns, while one-third resides in Reykjavík, the nation’s vibrant cultural and political capital. 

Iceland is Europe’s premier whale-watching destination, where humpback whales, minke whales, northern bottlenose whales, and even the majestic blue whale are commonly spotted in the icy North Atlantic waters. On land, visitors can experience Iceland’s landscapes on horseback, riding the country’s unique and sturdy Icelandic horses across black-sand beaches and rolling fields. Birdwatchers will also find a paradise here, with sightings of harlequin ducks, puffins, waterfowl, and the golden-tufted Slavonian grebe. 

Iceland is also home to over 30 active volcanoes, fueling countless bubbling hot springs and geothermal pools. This natural energy not only powers homes with sustainable green energy but also offers moments of pure relaxation—soaking in warm mineral-rich waters beneath the Northern Lights or the soft glow of the Midnight Sun is an experience unlike any other.