1. Explore the The Great Geysir

The Great Geysir in Iceland is a breathtaking naturel wonder, embodying the raw power of the earth. Watching it erupt shooting boiling water high into the sky, is a humble reminder of the planet's dynamic energy.

Read more here: The Great Geysir

Distance from the cottage is 33 km

2. The enormous Gullfoss waterfall

Iceland's "Golden Falls2. is a majestic cascade where nature's beauty and power converge in a breathtaking display. As the roaring water plunges in canyon below, it creates a shimmering mist and rainbows, capturing the essence of Iceland's wild and untamed spirit.

Read more here: Gullfoss Waterfall

Distance from the cottage is 39 km

3. Þingvellir national park

Is a site of profound historical and geological significance, where Iceland's past and naturel beauty converge. As the birthplace of one of the oldest parliaments, it stands as a symbol of Icelandic heritage and democracy. 

Geologically, it's a unique place where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet, creating a stunning landscape of rift vallys and clear glacial waters. Walking through Þingvellir you're not just witnessing history; you're standing at the meeting point of continents and the forces that shape our world.

Snorkling tour; For those interested you'll be able to join an incredible snorkling tour to explore the glacial depths of Iceland’s premier dive spot, the exquisite Silfra Fissure in Þingvellir.

Read more here Unesco about Þingvellir National Park

Distance from the cottage is 69 km

4. The inviting Seljalandsfoss waterfall

The seljalandsfoss is a mesmerizing waterfall that offers a truly unique experience. 

Cascading gracefully over a cliff, it invites you to walk behind its shimmering veil of water, immersing you in its beauty from every angle. Standing behind the waterfall, with its mist on your face and Icelandic landscape stretching out before you, fells like stepping into a naturel wonderland - an unforgettable moment where you connect deeply with the magic of nature.

Read more here: Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Distance from the cottage is 83 km

5. Skógafoss waterfall

Skógafoss is a powerful and enchanting waterfall on full display. Its thundering cascade drops from a height of over 60 meters, creating a mist that often catches the sunlight, forming vivid rainbows. As you stand at its base, the sheer force of the water leaves you in awe, while the surrounding greenery and dramatic cliffs evoke a deep connection to the Iceland's raw and pristine wilderness

Read more here: Skógafoss Waterfall

Distance from the cottage is 111 km

6. Reynisfjara, Iceland's iconic black sand beach

Reynisfjara is a place where the wild, rugged beauty of nature takes center stage. The contrast of the jet-black sands aganst the crashing Atlantic waves, with towering basalt columns and sea stacks rusing dramatically from the water, creates a landscape that feels otherworldly. 

Standing on Reynisfjara, you can feel the untamed power of the ocean and the timeless forces that have shaped this striking and unforgettable shoreline.

Read more here Guide to Dyrhólaey Peninsula & Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Distance from the cottage is 143 km

7. The Secret Lagoon

The lagoon is a hidden gem where the time seems to slow down. Nestled in a serene geothermal area, its naturally warm waters invite you to unwind and soak in the tranquility of nature.

Surrounded by steam rising from the earth and the gentle sounds of bubbling hot springs, the Secret Lagoon offers a peaceful escape, letting you connect with Iceland's geothermal wonders in a uniquely intimate way.

Read more here Secret Lagoon

Distance from the cottage is 8 km

8. Horseback riding

If you fancy horseback riding on Icelandic horses there is a farm very close by where you can book short to long terms trips. 

Read more here Riding Tours South Iceland

Distance from the cottage is 2 km

9. Hrunalaug Hotsprings

This close by hotspring is a true Icelandic treasure, offering a serene retreat in the heart of nature. Tucked away in a remote lava field, its warm, soothing waters provide a perfect sanctuary to relax and immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the Iceland landscape. It is owned by the local farmer...

Read more here Hrunalaug and here Iceland travel guide

Distance from the cottage is 12 km

10. Vatnsleysufoss waterfall

Also known as Faxi waterfall, Is a bit of a hidden gem in the Icelandic landscape, offering a tranquil and powerful display of nature. This broad waterfall cascades gracefully over a wide ledge, creating a gentle roar and a peaceful atmosphere. It is the perfect spot to pause of the way to Geysir and Gullfoss. 

Read more about the waterfall here European waterfalls - faxifoss

Distance from the cottage is 22 km

11. Friðheimar Tomato farm and restaurant 

It is not so much of an attraction, but it is at least worth spending time taking a lunch in their atmospheric restaurant.  It is very much a family affair growing tomato's using geothermal water to heat up the greenhouses. 

Years ago they expanded their business with a restaurant in one of their greenhouses serving dishes with tomato as the main ingredients.

But be aware that you will have to order table in advance as it is very popular.

Read more about it here fridheimar 

Distance from the cottage is 19 km

12. Skálholt church an ancient bishop seat

Skálholt is a place of deep spiritual and historical resonance in Iceland. As one of the country's most significant religious and cultural centers, it was the heart of Icelandic Christianity for centuries. The beautiful church that stand there today is a symbol of the rich heritage, surrounded by the landscape that evoke a sense of peace and reflection.

The church is beautifully viewed from the panorama view of the cottage...

Read more here Skálholt church

Distance from the cottage is 25 km, but it is only 6km in bird flight line

13. Brúarhöd Canyon

Is also a bit of a hidden gem where the Hvítá River has carved out dramatic landscape over centuries. The canyon's steep, rugged walls, adorned with fascinating rock formations, guide the langjökull (the long glacier) glacial waters through twists and turns. Standing on the edge you'll fell the raw power from the river. 

If you are interested in river rafting there are companies arranging different fares for children, but also more adventures fares.

Read more about the river rafting here Viator - river rafting in Golden Circle

Distance from the cottage is 27 km

14. Outdoor swimming pool in Borg

This is yet another small geothermal swimming pool that embodies the chart of Icelandic community life. We Icelandairs loves to go to our "sundlaug", which is swimming pools. They are all outside and heated 365 days a year. Regardless of outside temperature. Great in sunny weather, but even better in snowy and windy conditions.

It is located in a very small city and It offers water slide for the kids, hence if you want to rest an hour or two letting the kids play around, this is a good place to go....

Read more here: Swimming pool in Borg

Distance from the cottage is 40 km

15. Hjálparfoss waterfall

Is an incredible serene feature, marking where the rivers Fossá and Þjósá meet. Both of these are renowned as one of the best and most accessible fishing rivers, while Þjósá also takes the title of being the country's longest. 

The lava field that this feature falls from was created in one of the many eruptions of the nearby Hekla volcano. Hekla is one of Iceland’s most active, unpredictable and explosive volcanoes, so violent that in the Middle Ages it earned the nickname ‘the Gateway to Hell’.

Read more about it here Hjálparfoss 

Distance from the cottage is 42 km

16. Laugarvatn Fontana - Swimming Pool

Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Bath is a retreat that blends relaxation with the natural healing powers of the geothermal springs. Located by the beautiful laugarvatn lake, this spa offers both a soothing geothermal bath, steam rooms built directly over hot springs, and breathtaking views of the lake. As other geothermal waters in Iceland it's rich in minerals making it perfect for your relaxation.

Don't forget to try the famous geothermal bread . In Laugarvatn people still practice the traditional method of baking bread in the warm lake sand, while trout is caught and smoked on a nearby farm. The bread is prepared using an age-old recipe, where it's buried in the hot ground and left to heat for 24 hours before being unearthed and ready to savor.

Read more about it here Fontana

Distance from the cottage is 48 km

17. The Caves of Hella

Twelve man-made caves have been discovered on the land of Ægissíða by Hella on the South coast of Iceland. Five of them are included in the guided tours given daily, where you will be entering three of the caves and then peer into last two. The historical site is Iceland's oldest still standing archaeological remains. Some believe the caves to date even further back than the settlement of the Nordic Vikings.

Caves of Hella offer a great opportunity to explore these historic caves in Iceland. 

Read more about the caves here Caves of Hella

Distance from the cottage is 49 km

18. Kerid volcano crater

Is a mesmerizing and very easy assessable volcano crater, where the vibrant colors and ancient geology come together in a stunning display. The red volcanic rocks contrasts beautifully with the very deep waters of the crater's lake making this an absolute spectacle. 

While walking around the top of the crater, then take a small pause standing on the rim, looking down into this 3.000 year old crater created by the power full forces that shaped Iceland...and still does.

See more photos of the crater here shutterstock - Kerid crater

Distance from the cottage is 50 km

19. Reykjadalur - Hike and swim

This favorit of ours also translated to Steam Vally, is an exceptionally beautiful geothermal area with a great deal of hot springs and mud pools on the hike up. At the end of the hike you can treat yourself with a mind blowing bathe in the warm water while being surrounded by the stunning landscape.

Read more about the Vally here Reykjadalur

Distance from the cottage is 58 km

20. The Caves People - Laugarvatnshellir

This accessible cave offers a unique glimpse into a fascinating chapter of the country's history. In this rugged landscape on the xxx, a families lived in handcarved caves, showcasing the resourcefulness and resilience of Icelanders in the face of harsh natural conditions. Visiting this preserved case makes you feel like stepping back in time and experience firsthand how people adapted to this challenging environment. Families lived here up until 1922.

it is absolutely fascinating listen to the small guided tour explaining the history of the families... 

A side note is that one of our best friends grandmother served as a nanny for the family in the summertimer in during these last years of occupation. 

Read more about the cave here The Cave People

Distance from the cottage is 59 km

20. The Lava Centre in Hvolsvöllur

The the cottage is located over one of the largest lava belts in Iceland, this nearby center offers Interactive Vulcano exhibitions for those interested in the ever-continuing history of volcano and lava in Iceland. 

The Lava Centre is an interactive, high-tech educational exhibition depicting volcanic activity, earthquakes and the creation of Iceland over millions of years.

For families they have a special discount.

Read more about the Centre here The Lava Center

Distance from the cottage is 61 km

21. Háifoss "High" Waterfall

This spectaculars waterfall is the 3rd highest waterfall in Iceland measuring 122 meters. As you see on the picture the waterfall has a neighbor, which funny enough is called...."Granni", which mean Neighbor. 

These two waterfalls next to each other forms an extraordinary sight that you will never forget.

Read more about the waterfall here fullsuitcase - How to visit Háifoss

Distance from the cottage is 62 km

22. Keldur turf farm

This turf farm also called sod houses were a large part of the Icelandair building tradition. Now Keldur is one of only very few preserved turf houses left in Iceland.

Keldur farm is a historical place and here lived one of the characters in the Saga of Njáll, Ingjaldur Höskuldsson, who lived at Keldur from 974 until around the year 1000.

Read more of the turf farm here keldur-rangarvellir

Distance from the cottage is 67 km

23. Gljúfrabúi "Canyon Dweller" waterfall

is a beautiful waterfall located close to its better-known counterpart, Seljalandsfoss waterfall. It is one of the hidden gems of the South Coast, and thus an excellent spot for photographers and those seeking to admire nature in peace.

The 40 metre tall Gljúfrabúi is hidden behind a considerable cliff which faces out towards Iceland’s South Coast and the Atlantic Ocean. Because of its effective ‘hiding place’, Gljúfrabúi is overlooked by most travelers, even though thousands of people visit Seljalandsfoss, less than a kilometre away, every day.

Read more about the waterfall here gljufrabui

The distance from the cottage is 84 km

24. Sigöldufoss - near the vally of tears

Once it was a part of a major glacial river, but has now been reduced in size due to the construction of the Power Plant not far away. Previously the waterfall was massive and the water carried tons a mud and large stones making the water grey and muddy. Now it has been reduced to a more gentle size, which for many just makes it more beautiful as the water is less but much more clear with its green vegetation and the cliffs as a part of the beautiful and accessible canyon,

It is located in the beginning of the highland, but is accessible by asphalt road due to the power plant.

Read more here dumitrip - sigoldufoss

Distance from the cottage is 88 km

25. Seljavallalaug - The old farmer swimming pool

Seljavallalaug is one of the oldest swimming pools built by local farmes in 1923. Unlike the vast majority of Iceland’s swimming pools, there is no admission fee to enter Seljavallalaug. So long as, when you arrive, there is space for you, you are welcome to hop in.

It is fair to say that this an absolute gem with it's beautiful surrounding. 

Read more about it here Seljavallalaug-swimming-pool

Distance from the cottage is 107 km.

26. Kvernufoss

"My favourite hidden gem in Iceland is the Kvernufoss waterfall. It’s a fantastic photography location to add to your Iceland itinerary"

Kvernufoss is skipped by many despite being incredibly close to the massively popular Skogafoss. You can’t see Kvernufoss from the parking lot and there is a short walk to reach it so there’s a good chance when you visit you will encounter few other tourists.

Read more about it here curioustravelbug - kvernufoss

Distance from the cottage is 112 km

27. Þórsmörk - Highland (popular for hiking)

Þórsmörk is an unbelievably gorgeous Highland spot, a one-in-the-world valley. It is pretty hard to access, mainly due to treacherous river crossings, which need to be managed very very cautiously and with respect.

It is recommend to go there by special 4x4 car or one of the available bus trips as the road there contains several river crossings which get bigger and bigger as the road progresses and eventually end with the biggest one – the Krossá river.

Read more here epiciceland - thorsmork

Distance from the cottage is 110 km

28. Landmannalaugar - Highland (popular for hiking)

Landmannalaugar, or the "People's Pools," is a vast area of stunning and unique beauty in the heart of Iceland's southern Highlands. Throughout the summer, it is one of the most popular places for hiking – either over one day or several – and for natural hot spring bathing.

Read more here Guidetoiceland - landmannalaugar

Distance from the cottage is 114 km

29. Sólheimajökull -  glacier outlet

Sólheimajökull is an outlet glacier of the mighty icecap of Mýrdalsjökull on the South Coast of Iceland. It is one of the most easily accessible glaciers to reach and it very famous for hikes and day tours. As photographer you will be able to catch amazing pictures of this mighty wonder.

Sadly, like all the glaciers in Iceland bar one, Sólheimajökull is shrinking rapidly. A glacier lagoon at its base reveals how quickly it is receding: the length of an Olympic swimming pool every year. It seems like this change is already an irreversible consequence of climate change, and it may be gone within decades.

Read more about the glacier outlet here Guide To Iceland - solheimajokull

Distance from the cottage is 120 km