12 Best Sights in North Iceland, Iceland

Southwest of Hverfjall is this mesmerizing lava field known as Dimmuborgir, or "Dark Castles," a labyrinth of tall and twisted formations where you can choose between short and longer signposted routes through the eerie yet enchanting landscape. The best views are available in September when the fiery reds and oranges of the dwarf birch trees contrast brilliantly with the jagged black peaks, crags, and crevices within. It's also fun to visit during the holiday season when the Icelandic Yule Lads take up residence in Dimmuborgir's many hiding spots.

The "Echo Cliffs" is an extraordinary labyrinth of rock formations, located on the west side of Jökulsárgjúfur canyon off Route 862. There are two trails from the parking lot to this remarkable attraction: one is a short (1 km) there-and-back path leading to a magnificent rock named The Troll, and another longer trail (3 km [1.85 miles]) takes a ring around the areas and is more challenging. The name of the attraction comes from the honeycomb textures of the rocks, which act as sound processors amplifying the reverberating sound of the river.

An extraordinary episode of nature can be found at Hólmatungur where unique rock formations frame a verdant, well-vegetated oasis bustling with cascading waterfalls and clear-water springs. Hólmatungur is accessed via Route 887. Nordic Natura offers drop-offs and pick-ups for those wishing to hike in the area.

This legendary 15-meter sea stack is shaped remarkably like a giant rhino drinking from the sea. Fueling imaginations since time immemorial, Hvítserkur is said to have been a night troll caught in the sunrise while making its way to the old convent at Þingeyrar to complain about the bells. Hvítserkur translates to "white shirt" and refers to the white color from the accumulation of bird droppings. To reach this obligatory photo op, turn off Route 711 north of Ósvar. A trail leads from the parking lot to a viewing platform.

A quick and tempting diversion can be found by taking Route 717 off Route 1 and driving 9 km (just under 6 miles) to Borgarvirki, an outstanding natural fortress made of basalt strata. Standing 177 meters (580 feet) above sea level with superior views over the vast plains, you can let your imagination run wild here. Legend has it that Vikings once used this geological wonder as a real fort.

Next to the Námaskarð Mountain Ridge, on the eastern side of the Ring Road, are the bubbling, gray-mud sulfur springs of Hverir, boiling like a witch's cauldron in the strange red-and-yellow valleys. Hike around this fascinating area, but remember to step carefully. Though the sulfurous vapors smell like rotten eggs, the fumes are generally harmless.

Among the mysterious arches, gates, and caves of Dimmuborgir, the best known is the Kirkja (church), resembling a Gothic chapel (it's marked by a sign, lest you miss it). Don't wander off the paths, as Dimmuborgir is a highly fragile environment.

A surreal mix of still-smoldering lava fields, bubbling solfataras (volcanic craters emitting sulfurous gas), and steam vents can be seen at Leirhnjúkur, which sits on top of a vast magma chamber, with some parts as close as 3 km (1.9 miles) to the surface. From the car park, a circular footpath leads around the area with sensational views over the impressive volcanic landscapes. The terrain outside of the marked trail is hazardous, especially in the high-temperature regions, so don't be tempted to wander off. Good walking boots are essential.

The trail to this remarkable row of red scoria craters starts from the parking lot just past the Vesturdalur campsite—don't be confused by the popular site in Heiðmörk near Reykjavík with the same name. The footing can be tricky in places, but otherwise it's not too challenging. The rocky path winds enchantingly through remarkable basalt structures with unusual natural patterns.

On the south side of Lake Mývatn (easily accessible on foot), there is a cluster of beautifully formed pseudocraters situated close to Skútustaðir. Not real volcanic craters, they are the result of violent steam explosions created when hot lava flows into a body of water, a rare phenomenon outside of Iceland.

Its name means “hell” in Icelandic, but this crater lake with its brilliant turquoise pool looks more like heaven. The ancient belief that volcanoes were the gateways to the netherworld of eternal damnation inspired the name of this beauty and, confusingly, another crater lake of the same name in Askja. A path from the car park leads around the rim.