If you have romance on your mind then look no further. With its incredible landscapes and superlative sunsets simply being in Iceland heightens the senses. Maybe you are looking for some quality time with a new love or a long-term partner? Or perhaps the perfect setting for a proposal or a honeymoon? Whatever your intention Iceland is just the place for a grand gesture. From cuddling up under winter skies to looking for the Northern Lights to soaking in a secluded outdoor hot spring. Iceland is sure to woo you both with its many charms. Here is our pick of the most romantic places in Iceland.
Romantic Places in Iceland
Iceland is one of the most romantic places you can think of. All the unique and breathtaking landscapes are the perfect background to celebrate your love. It is not a surprise that many couples choose Iceland for their honeymoon or their anniversaries. Iceland is also on the list of the top places to plan your wedding. It has something that attracts many and somehow evokes positive emotions in people. It might be because of the Icelanders' kindness, beautiful places unseen in other countries, that make people feel special. In such a place, it is worth planning a trip to celebrate the years spent together with your other half. Even if there is no special occasion, it is a great idea to get out of the routine and do something different, something interesting. Watching the auroras, walking through the ice cave, or having a relaxing time in one of the hot springs are just a few of the things you can do on your trip to romantic Iceland.
1. Thingvellir National Park
The Thingvellir National Park forms part of a trio of sights on the Golden Circle route. Now, doesn’t renting a motorhome and touring the ‘Golden Circle’ sound like a great idea for a honeymoon or anniversary? It is almost as if it were named for it! This beautiful national park stretches out across southern Iceland and is crisscrossed with many stunning hiking paths. You could easily head out on a hike with a picnic lunch and hardly see another soul all day long. There is a great campsite to park up and a beautiful lake that you can dive in.
2. Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
This stunning waterfall not far from Iceland’s South Coast is gorgeous at any time of the year. In winter when the Iceland weather brings snow and ice the views of the frozen falls are incredibly striking. During the summer months though it is possible to walk behind the falling water at Seljalandsfoss. The surrounding countryside is lush and green during at this time of year. And the warm peachy hues of the Midnight Sun reflecting in the water take it to another level.
3. Vik’s Black Sand Beaches - Reynisfjara
Beaches are a favorite of lovers everywhere but this one is a little different from the usual. Instead of golden sands, the beach here is pitch black. And there are no gently lapping waves either. Instead, the wild North Atlantic Ocean lashes and churns around the bay. Dark basalt rock formations rise up out of the water and the whole ensemble creates some serious drama. Prepare to be invigorated at Vik's black sand beaches!
4. Diamond Beach
Diamond Beach eh? If your partner is hoping for a big diamond this might just be the place to proffer it (or not!). Strewn across the sands there are thousands of ice pieces large and small. When the light catches them they glitter like diamonds on the black sands. This is definitely the place for some creative proposal selfies if that’s your thing. Nearby you will also find the beautiful Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. In winter you can also venture into the amazing ice cave at the nearby Vatnajökull glacier and national park.
5. Reykjavik
The sophisticated city of Rekjavik is up there with any Scandinavian capital when it comes to style and culture. Visiting the city might be the perfect way to round off your romantic adventure. After exploring the great outdoors book into a plush hotel for a night or two and luxuriate. There are high-end restaurants, chic bars, and art galleries galore to enjoy. Visiting during winter when there is snow on the ground and fewer other visitors makes it even more magical.
6. The Blue Lagoon
Any brand of Iceland travel would not be complete without a dip in the luxurious waters of the Blue Lagoon. This is especially true if romance is the aim of the game. This famous hot spring is a short drive from Keflavík International Airport. As such it makes the perfect first stop to set the tone of a romantic break. Its warm water is a glowing turquoise that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding dark volcanic rock. Spend an afternoon sipping champagne and soaking away your travels. A winning formula for starting things how you mean to go on.
7. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula
The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is sometimes referred to as Iceland in miniature. It has such a variety of landscapes to explore that can't be left out of the list of best places to visit in Iceland. At just two hours drive from Reykjavik, it makes for a great year-round destination. Sleepy fishing villages are dotted around the dramatic coastline making great stops for lazy strolls and long lunches. Inland you will find lava fields, mountains, and waterfalls to explore. There is even Iceland’s most secluded natural hot tub to track down. There are also some wonderful places to view the Northern Lights. And the proximity of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula to the capital makes it very accessible in winter.
8. Dettifoss Waterfall
This spot is a little more off the beaten path than the rest of the romantic places we have mentioned. The mighty Dettifoss Waterfall is in northern Iceland and forms part of the Diamond Circle. Now there’s an aptly named route for an engagement or proposal road trip if ever we heard one! This powerful waterfall is the largest in Europe in terms of the volume of water that passes over it per second. This one would be best visited in a 4x4 camper or car as it’s a rough road to the falls. But there’s nothing like a bit of an adventure to cement a relationship.