Iceland

The Blue Lagoon geothermal spa was accidentally formed in 1976 during operations at the nearby geothermal power plant. People started bathing in the lagoon and noticed that it had beneficial effects on their skin, especially for those with psoriasis. Public bathing facilities opened in 1987, followed by the full spa in 1999. Blue Lagoon has become the single most popular tourist attraction in Iceland.

Reykjavik Public Library

A beautiful day for horseback riding. Developed from ponies taken to Iceland by Scandinavian settlers in the 9th and 10th centuries, Icelandic horses are the size of ponies. They are good natured and have few diseases. Icelandic law prevents horses from being imported into the country and exported animals are not allowed to return.





Downtown Reykjavik


The Hallgrímskirkja Lutheran Church. State Architect Guðjón Samúelsson's design is said to resemble the basalt lava flows of Iceland's landscape. This landmark towered above the city and helped us navigate as we walked.

Due to the lack of trees, early settlers lived in sod houses. Most of the buildings date from the 1940's and later, when poured concrete became commonly used.