I OPEN my eyes and gaze into overall darkness.
I can’t even see my hand when it’s inches from my face– and with the sound of leaking water stifling the breath of individuals beside me, I start to fear I’m unexpectedly alone.
Will I ever make it out?
When the lights lastly flicker into action, brightening the glossy, damp rocks of the spacious tunnel again, relief floods over me.
I remain in Iceland’s most well-known lava tunnel– Raufarhólshellir, nearly a mile underground– not far from the capital Reykjavik.
It’s the outcome of a volcanic eruption that occurred 5,200 years back.
Even if you’re not a location geek– I’m not– it’s difficult not to get swept up in all of it when treading Iceland’s volcanic landscapes.
The nation’s big white glaciers and huge variety of active volcanoes offer it its label The Land of Fire and Ice.
It’s a deservedly significant title.
The very first Reykjavik roadway I drove on was recently resurfaced, a current eruption having actually triggered a lava overflow to spill on to it.
The residents are so utilized to these that a fresh roadway can be laid in just days — however do not stop your automobile to take images of the cinematic steam increasing from the ground, as the heat bubbling underneath the tar can melt tires.
Iceland’s interesting location isn’t all lava spills, however– its geo-thermal environment has actually assisted develop a few of the world’s most well-known health clubs, consisting of heaven Lagoon a little south of Reykjavik.
While manufactured, it’s heated up by a geothermal power station that counts on energy from the volcanic ground.
The silica and minerals in the water, stated to improve the body immune system, turn the water a milky shade of child blue.
It was so peaceful to drift in the bath-warm water, slapping algae masks and lava scrubs on my face from the lagoon-side charm bar– all of which are consisted of in your entry rate.
However beauty consultants and health professionals aren’t the only ones to make the most of the lava landscapes here.
I even tested lava BREAD throughout my stay.
The conventional rye dough is buried underground for 24 hr and the natural heat from the earth gradually cooks it.
And when you’re not appreciating the marvelous ground you’re strolling on, aim to the sky, as Iceland is among the very best locations on the planet to identify the splendid Northern Lights.
Relentless daytime
Unfortunately, I didn’t stand an opportunity of identifying the vibrant phenomenon at this time of year.
However then I was experiencing something similarly unique– continuous daytime.
The nation’s distinct position at the edge of the Polar circle implies that from mid– Might through to the end of July, the sun never ever completely sets.
That leads to exceptionally dark winter seasons– making them perfect for going after the aurora borealis– and intense summertimes so intense that almost every hotel bed room includes blackout blinds and eye masks are a requirement for appropriate kip.
That might sound agonizing to those who treasure their full night’s sleep, however I completely welcomed it with late suppers and some more uncommon evening activities.
A midnight trip by all-terrain automobile (ATV) over rocky surfaces and craggy cliff edges might not be your leading option in the UK, however throughout the summertime solstice in Iceland it’s a really wonderful experience.
I ‘d never ever previously driven an ATV– comparable to a quad bike– however it didn’t take me long to discover before I was daringly roaring over muddy mounds and crashing through big puddles as I reached the peak of the mountain to take in breath-taking views over the stunning Reykjanes Peninsula.
I was buzzing with adrenaline from the experience– a lot that, even if it had actually been pitch-black outside, I still would have struggled to sleep that night.
However why would you squander your time sleeping when you could be absorbing the marvels of the Land of Fire and Ice?
GO: REYKJAVIK
ARRIVING: Play flies from Stansted to Iceland Keflavik from ₤ 90 return.
See flyplay.com.
REMAINING THERE: Hilton Reykjavik Nordica has double spaces from ₤ 134 per night.
See hilton.com.
OUT & & ABOUT: A 2 and a half hour midnight ATV trip expenses from around ₤ 144pp, consisting of devices.
See re.is/tour/midnight-sun-atv-tour.
Day entry to heaven Lagoon begins at ₤ 58pp.
See bluelagoon.com.
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