What visitors are finding is a country with more than a pretty landscape to offer: they are discovering a people of above average height, whose ancestry can be traced back to settlers from Scandinavia and who boast a rich literary and artistic tradition (beyond Björk). The country with the chilly name is rapidly becoming one of Europe 's hottest destinations. Much of Iceland 's popularity is due to its natural features, which include glaciers, hot springs , geysers, active volcanoes, portentous peaks and vast lava deserts.

It is not only unique and wonderful natural phenomena that intrigue visitors to this, the second largest island in Europe, which lies close to the Arctic Circle northwest of Scotland and south of Greenland . The hardy Icelandic people, descendants of ancient Norsemen and Celts, are intriguing too, having spawned what is now renowned as the oldest surviving parliament in the world (called the 'Althing'), founded in 930, and boasting a much-revered literary heritage of the best medieval works, mostly based on historic heroic sagas. If you are interested in nature, Iceland is a great place to visit. In the summer, many companies offer guided bus trips that will take you around the country. You can also take the bus by yourself and go on hikes near places such as Thorsmoerk, Snaefellsjoekull, and more. Another alternative is to ride horseback across the highlands.

What else is there to do and see in Iceland ? Well, how about whale-watching; chic fine dining; hiking the highlands; viewing Europe's largest glacier Vatnajokull; fishing the rivers; taming one of the great wild Icelandic horses, river-rafting; exploring on a snow-scooter; shopping for designer wear, souvenirs and gourmet foods; joining the descendants of the Vikings in the Summer Solstice Festival at Hafnarfjorour; visit the northerly island of Grimsey to cross the Arctic Circle; visiting the recreated medieval farm at Stong...