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Vatnajökull National Park It is the largest national park in Western Europe and so everyone will have all the right reasons to plan a trip here. Covering 13% of Iceland’s land, this national park is known for its unique features that reflect the interplay between fire and ice. As you explore the area, you’ll see crystalline white glaciers descending to black sand, hot streams bursting from the frozen ice banks.
Step into the land where snow extends to the point where the sky meets the sea and in whose lap reside wondrous landscapes, picturesque views, awe-inspiring mountains shining in the sunlight and flowing rivers making their way through the land. Vatnajökull National Park It is also home to the largest glaciers, highest mountains and most powerful waterfalls in all of Europe.
About Vatnajökull National Park
The park was opened in 2008 and is one of three national parks in Iceland covering an area of 12,000 km square. It contains picturesque landscapes that were created by rivers and glacial ice as well as natural phenomena such as volcanism and geothermal. action. This park has long valleys, breathtaking waterfalls and forests.
The entire park is divided into four areas, each of which has distinct characteristics as well as qualities. The highland areas of the park also provide educational services. Overall, the entire park is adorned with towering snow peaks, soft black sand beaches, glacial landscapes, huge active volcanoes and mountainous terrain.
Best time to visit the park
Given the weather conditions of Iceland, the best time to visit this park is in summer. During summer, the days are longer and the cold is less frequent. You get a chance to explore more places and do more outdoor activities that you might not be allowed to do in winter. The trails are in their best condition so you can go hiking and even take boat trips.
where to stay
A perfect place to stay in such a place is a necessity. To make your exploration hassle-free, it is important to plan your stay somewhere close to this national park. If you’re not one to go camping in Vatnajökull National Park, check out these nearby hotels that may suit your accommodation preferences!
1. Fohotel Glacier Lagoon
This is an amazing hotel in Iceland located near Vatnajökull National Park. It is a luxury four star hotel with spacious and comfortable rooms. The rooms are well furnished and fully equipped. This is a non-smoking hotel. Furthermore, they also offer free WiFi and free parking.
They also provide free breakfast which is quite commendable. There is an in-house bar as well as a lounge and a classic restaurant where you can taste all their local cuisine.
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2. Hotel Skaftfell
This hotel is also located near the park and is a great option to stay. This is a 3 star hotel. The rooms are comfortable and relaxing. The place is always clean and well organized. The staff is very friendly and helpful. Free WiFi and breakfast add to the convenience. The property also has a bar, lounge and a restaurant.
Places to visit
This national park is full of awe-inspiring sites which are frequently visited by tourists. To get a better idea about these places, it would be a good idea to refer to the Vatnajökull National Park map. Check out these places and make sure you include them in your itinerary!
1. Jökulsárlón
It is a glacial lagoon that borders Vatnajökull National Park. The land looks like a snowy world, with huge icebergs covering its entire area. The lagoons drain into the Atlantic Ocean through small waterways.
The still clear blue water adds a lovely contrast to the picturesque view of the entire area. You can also catch a glimpse of many freshwater fish and adorable seals!
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2. Svartifoss
It is one of the most visited places in Vatnajökull National Park. It is basically a huge waterfall right in the middle of the park which enhances the beauty of this place a hundred times.
Tourists especially come to Vatnajökull National Park to see this place. Surrounded by deep lava columns, this waterfall creates a beautiful sight that mesmerizes the onlookers.
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It is a complex caldera surrounded by the mountain Dingjufjöll. This is one of those nested calderas that you can find everywhere in Iceland. Tourists often visit this place due to the astonishing natural views.
The breathtaking landscapes make it an ideal photographic location where you can get Insta-worthy pictures.
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4. Bridamarkur Glacier
This location is basically the outlet of a large glacier called Vatnajökull, located in the southeastern part of the park. It originates at the end of Vatnajökull and falls into a small lagoon. This entire place looks as if it has been specially designed and engineered by nature itself.
The landscapes of this place are so unique that they create a beautiful sight. Nature lovers should definitely visit this park whenever they come.
5. Öræfa Glacier
This place is also located in the southeastern part of Vatnajökull National Park. It is a huge volcano which is mostly covered with ice. It is also the highest peak in Iceland and gives you many reasons to visit.
This snow-clad volcano sparkles as it reflects the sun’s rays, creating a pleasant sight that completely mesmerizes the onlookers.
Moreover, the place is so serene and peaceful that you will lose track of time while exploring the breathtaking beauty of the awe-inspiring landscape.
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things to do
To spend your time productively in this park, the best thing would be to involve yourself in some exciting activities. Listed below are some of the activities most people love to engage in!
1. Explore the Black Sand Dunes
One of the specialties of Vatnajökull National Park are the black sand dunes that extend over a long distance. The huge glaciers cascading down onto the black sand create a stark contrast, making for a spectacular sight.
As you explore the area, you’ll encounter a variety of wildlife species. You will find mostly different species of birds that migrate here every year.
2. sailing
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This is one of the must-try things when you visit this park. As you pass through the icebergs, you will witness picturesque views of snow-capped mountains shining in the sun’s rays and flowing rivers flowing down the hilly terrain.
The whole experience is so peaceful and serene that you will feel yourself completely lost in the vibrant aura of this place.
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3. Snowmobiling
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This could be a dream come true for all the thrill seekers out there. As you move through the glaciers, you may encounter some shivering experiences as you cross some slippery, uneven areas. You’ll also get to see some of the most awe-inspiring views of the park.
Overall, it is a fun experience that is challenging at the same time. If you’re someone who likes to try something different, you can do that! Also, if you don’t want to drive alone but still want to go through this experience, you can rent a car with a professional driver.
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4. Hiking
For all the adventure enthusiasts out there, hiking to Vatnajökull National Park is one of those things that you definitely cannot miss on your trip. Hiking the mountainous terrain of Vatnajökull National Park, amidst the largest glaciers in Europe, is a completely different experience and one you should definitely try.
5. Skidooing and dog sledding
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These activities are more geared towards entertainment and less scary. This is one of those thrilling activities that anyone can try. It is one of the popular outdoor activities that most of the tourists visiting this park try.
There are many places where you can try both of these activities. Also, since all these activities are done under the supervision of professionals, it is completely safe.
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how to reach
You may have to take two different transportation facilities to reach the park. To reach here, taking flight and going by road are considered the two best options. -15
1. flight
First of all, you need to fly to Keflavik International Airport. Then, you’ll need to go through a security check at the Keflavik port so you can finally make your way to Iceland.
2. Road Transport
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Now, once you reach Iceland, head to Reykjavik. From here, you can avail any road transport facility to eventually reach the national park. If you don’t want to drive, you can either rent a car or book a cab.
Additionally, you can take a bus to it or go on an organized tour. It takes about 4 hours to reach Vatnajökull National Park from Reykjavik.
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Thus, if you ever visit Iceland, do visit this beautiful national park. This place is full of natural wonders and will definitely take your breath away. Then who is stopping you? Come to this place and see the most awe-inspiring creations of God in Vatnajökull National Park.
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