What to Do in Iceland This Fall

The Iceland buzz continues to circulate around Pittsburgh, thanks to excited feedback from travelers who’ve already taken advantage of Icelandair’s nonstop flight that launched in May. With service planned to run through late October, it seems the perfect time to book that vacation — either as your main travel destination or en route to another European hub.

Traveling in September and October brings definite advantages, as kids have resumed school and most adults have wrapped up summertime trips. In Iceland, autumn means life settles down as the bulk of tourists flock away from the island – and travel-related prices drop a bit into shoulder-season fares.

For residents, fall means sheep and goat farmers start bringing home their herds, and locals prep for the cold and dark stretch ahead. Fall in Iceland typically begins in August and lasts into the end of October. The landscape morphs into vibrant shades of yellow, orange and red, creating spectacular displays of color as spectators visibly watch the rugged island evolve into the next season.

How to Trip Prep for the Season

As temps drop — and gusts pick up — pack as you always would for Iceland (layers!), but perhaps with a few warmer options included just in case. Think waterproof gear, warm hats and gloves, sturdy walking shoes, and keep an eye on those wind conditions, too. Or save room in your suitcase for a beautiful Icelandic lopapeysa — their famous authentic wool sweater. (The Reykjavík weekend Kolaportið Flea Market is one guaranteed place to find these keepsake treasures.)

If renting a car to explore on your own, take note that while the majority of roads will still be open for the beginning of the fall season, the F-roads usually close toward the end of September. These unique roads, unpaved and requiring special vehicles with 4-wheel drives, wind their way through mountains, glaciers and majestic riverways. This means roads in the highlands — and some gravel ones around the island — won’t be accessible at this time of year. Simply keep an eye on closure info in the case of snowfall or light flooding, so that you don’t have to backtrack along the way.

Looking to enjoy some pampering as you sit back, soak in the lunar-like landscapes and let someone else lead the way? Check out informative and uber-comfortable tours offered by companies like Activity Iceland. Their trips range from day adventures around the South Coast and Golden Circle to longer, privately-guided tours around various parts of the country.

 

How to Fill Your Days in Memorable Ways

So aside from seasonally-appropriate hiking adventures and hot spring dips, or perhaps getting lucky enough to join unique sheepherding excursions in Réttir, what else proves a prime activity for this time of year? Cozy into Hotel Ranga’s luxe countryside spot to boomerang off on South Coast day trips to sites ranging from the majestic Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls to the Geyser geothermal area and black sand beach at Reynisfjara. Spend an afternoon at Icelandic HorseWorld befriending their gentle, wild-haired residents. (They’re the world’s only horses with five gaits, we learned!)

Take a rejuvenating dip in the famed Blue Lagoon (check into on-site Silica Hotel for the ultimate treat) or enjoy a tour (and delightfully fresh lunch) inside the Fridheimar Greenhouse, a family-run operation that grows tomatoes with the help of the island’s geothermal heat and the pollination of bees imported from the Netherlands.

At mealtime, find delectable fare in welcoming spaces throughout the country. In the capital, savor local culture and history plus the flavors of the nation enjoyed on the Reykjavik Food Walk – Local Foodie Adventure in Iceland. Think bowls of lobster soup with coconut milk and Thai chilis served at an old fish shed (whose name translates to “The Sea Baron”), Icelandic hot dogs (80% lamb) served from a modest stand that’s been around since 1937, and salted cod and fermented shark braved from a cozy booth inside happening food spot Dass.

Also in Reykjavik, warm up with a coffee or meal at Bakabaka, “bakery and cafe by day, pizza and wine by night”, or check out one of the more unique museums you might ever encounter in all your travels.

Book a night out at the theatre, whether amid the architectural wonder that is Reykjavík’s grand Harpa or inside a more intimate venue (like Hús máls og menningar, a bookstore-bar-concert venue combo). Nearby, find frequent music at KEX Hostel  — one of the many spaces that hosts acts each November during Iceland Airwaves, a citywide festival that breathes fresh air and beautiful tunes into the country.

Check out anticipated, annual happenings like Reykjavik International Film Festival (this year, September 26 to October 6). As one of the country’s largest and most diverse cultural events, it’s showcased more than 100 movies from more than 40 countries since 2004.

Book Now, Savor Soon!

If you’re looking for a September or October adventure, consider the five-and-a-half-hour journey from PIT north to Iceland. We’re quite confident that you, too, will fall in love with this untamed land of mystique and magic, waterfalls and volcanoes — and kind, hardy folks who happily call this place home.