Other worldly landscapes

Iceland’s landscapes feel as though they belong to another planet, which is why filmmakers so often turn to them for science fiction worlds. Vast lava fields stretch to the horizon like frozen oceans of black stone, while steaming geothermal vents release clouds that seem to rise from the Earth’s core. Glaciers carve sharp, luminous forms into the land, reflecting light in shades of blue and white that resemble alien ice worlds. The stark absence of trees in many regions enhances the sense of isolation, making these settings ideal for stories set on distant planets or in post-apocalyptic futures. Waterfalls plunging over ancient cliffs, moss-covered volcanic craters, and endless highland deserts give Iceland a raw, elemental beauty that feels untouched by time. The land appears to be constantly in transformation, shaped by fire and ice in a way that mirrors the dramatic forces often imagined in science fiction narratives. This combination of extreme contrasts and haunting emptiness allows Iceland to stand in for Mars, alien moons, or unknown realms, offering filmmakers a natural backdrop that feels both real and fantastical at once. BTW, these photos were taken in color!!

Southwest and Southern Peninsula

We took another wonderful ride in the south and southwest peninsula. Gorgeous!!

Eyjafjaroarsveit and Northeast Region

We took an amazing car ride through gorgeous landscapes in the Northeast Region

Our Hotel on a pedestrian street

Streets that ar red are closed to cars for most of the day. Shoppers and tourists fill them. This was taken early in the morning.

Akoreyri, the capital of the North

>Akureyri, often called the capital of North Iceland, is a vibrant town set at the head of Eyjafjörður, one of the country’s longest and most beautiful fjords. Surrounded by snowcapped mountains and calm Arctic waters, the town blends natural drama with a welcoming, small-town atmosphere. Despite its northern location, Akureyri enjoys a surprisingly mild climate, allowing colorful houses, cafés, and one of the northernmost botanical gardens in the world to flourish. The town serves as a cultural and economic hub for the region, offering museums, galleries, music, and a lively harbor that reflects its strong connection to the sea.

More of the Northern Region

Beyond Akureyri, the northern landscape opens into wide valleys, lava fields, and powerful natural wonders such as Goðafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods,” where water spills with both grace and force over ancient rock. In winter, the northern lights often dance across the dark sky, while summer brings endless daylight that stretches time itself. This region of Iceland feels quieter and more introspective than the south—an invitation to reflect on nature’s strength, fragility, and timeless presence.

Northern Region of Iceland

The northern region of Iceland feels both intimate and immense, shaped by ancient forces yet softened by quiet, enduring beauty. Here, mountains rise in broad, sculpted forms rather than sharp drama, their slopes streaked with snow well into summer. Fjords carve deep into the land, reflecting skies that shift constantly between silver mist and clear, luminous blue. The light in the north has a special clarity—cool and expansive—revealing subtle colors in rock, water, and moss that reward slow looking and contemplation.

Hverageroisbaer and Alfus

Despite its harsh climate, Iceland possesses a quiet, resilient beauty. The changing light—long golden hours in summer and soft blue darkness in winter—transforms the landscape into something almost mythic. Sparse vegetation, open skies, and the presence of wildlife create a feeling of purity and balance. Iceland’s special quality lies not only in its dramatic scenery, but in the way it invites reflection on the power of nature and the responsibility we share to respect and protect such fragile, extraordinary places.

More of Iceland

What makes Iceland especially unique is the visible meeting of elemental forces. Fire and ice coexist in close proximity, with active volcanoes, steaming geothermal vents, and hot springs lying near massive glaciers and snow-covered peaks. The ground itself seems to breathe, shifting and reshaping through tectonic movement and thermal energy. This constant interaction reminds us that the planet is dynamic, not static, and that creation and destruction are part of the same natural cycle. Visited Myralshreppur

What makes Iceland especially unique is the visible meeting of elemental forces. Fire and ice coexist in close proximity, with active volcanoes, steaming geothermal vents, and hot springs lying near massive glaciers and snow-covered peaks. The ground itself seems to breathe, shifting and reshaping through tectonic movement and thermal energy. This constant interaction reminds us that the planet is dynamic, not static, and that creation and destruction are part of the same natural cycle. More images from the southern region:

Iceland is a place where the Earth feels newly formed, raw and alive. Vast lava fields stretch toward distant mountains, their dark textures softened by moss that glows an otherworldly green. Water is everywhere—thundering waterfalls plunge over cliffs, glacial rivers braid across open plains, and mist rises constantly into the cool air. The land is dramatic yet strangely serene, offering a powerful sense of solitude and scale that makes visitors feel both humbled and deeply connected to nature. We visited Myrdalshreppur

Visiting Iceland during the Midnight Sun

Last June we spent 2 wonderful weeks in Iceland. Norman had recovered from months of illness and off we went. We saw a lot and appreciated the guides we had to took us around. First we visited Sveitarfelagid Vogar

The we went to Vestur Hofn

We next visited the Southwest and southern region. Kopavogur, Floahreppur and Olfus.