It’s night time in the middle of summer in Iceland – and the sun is shining. One of Iceland’s most amazing sights, unfortunately you won’t see it and the Aurora Borealis on the same trip. That’s the problem with Iceland, there are too many things to see throughout the year! (If you can’t decide when to go, check out this guide to the best time to travel to Iceland). So if you want to see the midnight sun in Iceland, what’s the best way to enjoy it?
Photo by: dendron/Fotolia
What is the midnight sun?
The midnight sun is a natural phenomenon between May and July where the sun doesn’t fully set, instead it touches the horizon before rising again. Seen north of the Arctic Circle, it’s caused by the angle of the Earth in relation to the sun. It’s essentially a permanent sunset/sunrise. Whilst not bright sunlight, it’s perfect for photography and allows you to pack more into your holiday.
NB Iceland (with the exception of the island of Grimsey) is south of the Arctic Circle but still receives the midnight sun.
Viewing the midnight sun in Iceland
Secret Solstice
One of the summer’s highlights is Secret Solstice. A fairly new music festival located in Laugardalur in Reykjavik, it features both established bands and musicians and new acts. This year’s line-up includes Radiohead, Deftones, Róisín Murphy, and Goldie performing between 16th June and 19th June. It’s sure to be a great event celebrating the midnight sun and Norse mythology.
A 3 day festival pass costs 24,900 kr. (£140) whilst the V.I.P 3 day festival pass is 34,900 kr. (£198).
Photo by: annebe/Fotolia
Reykjavik
A charming city with fascinating architecture and a friendly atmosphere. If you want some photographs capturing the contrast between man and nature, Reykjavik is the place to be. Head to the wonderful Harpa building. Wander along the waterfront by Sólfar and you’ll see the Sun Voyager sculpture, which is perfect for some particularly artistic shots.
Alternatively, the lighthouse at Grotta in Seltjarnarnes to the west of Reykjavik provides another fantastic photo opportunity. There are a number of photography tours running throughout the summer, Iceland Photo Tours is well worth investigating.
Strandir
For stunning landscapes, head north to the Strandir coast. If you can, the 4 hour drive to Djúpavík is certainly worth the effort. Whilst the former herring-fishing village is pretty deserted, you’ll discover a rugged landscape filled with snow-capped mountains and dotted with fjords.
Best waterfalls in Iceland
Photo by: Fyle/Fotolia
If it’s waterfalls you’re after, 3 of the highest and most impressive in the country are:
- Glymur, 190m
- Háifoss, 122m
- Hengifoss, 110m
Háifoss is perhaps the most beautiful and lies 2 hours west of Reykjavik. Whichever you visit, the light from the midnight sun will make them all the more spectacular.
If the weather’s bad
I appreciate you won’t want to be hiking in the rain. So, if the weather turns, the Ölgerðin Brewery offers tours on Fridays and Saturdays. Discover the history of alcohol and Iceland’s years of prohibition finished off with a couple of drinks. The tour includes a hotel pick-up so you don’t have to argue over who’s driving!
Alternatively, visit the Hallgrímskirkja church at the top of Skólavörðustígur. Open until 9pm in summer, it offers fantastic views over the city, harbour, and surrounding areas
Time to get booking!
There’s not long left to get this trip booked. Why not start by getting a quote for a rental car in Iceland?
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