Country Facts And Traveller Information
The world's 18th largest island, the Republic of Iceland is located in the North Atlantic Ocean between the north-western tip of mainland Britain and the south-east coastline of Greenland. Despite being approximately 103,000 sq kms in size, the population of Iceland is most densely concentrated in the larger metropolitan areas found in the country's south western corner, including the capital city of Reykjavik where over 120,000 permanent residents account for more than a third of Iceland's total population count. Most of today's native Icelanders hail from Celtic and Nordic origins, the earliest recorded settlers arriving from Norway during the 9th century, but having evolved into a country that boasts some of the highest living standards in the world, a wide variety of other nationalities are now included within the permanent citizenship of Iceland. Holiday homes are becoming a valuable asset to property owners, especially in cities like Reykjavik, as a growing number of tourists are choosing to visit Iceland in the advent of easier and cheaper global travel, so resident numbers are significantly boosted by visitors keen to experience the landscapes and lifestyles of a country renowned for its unique natural and cultural heritage.
Often referred to as 'the land of ice and fire', the reasons for such a romantic moniker become clear once you discover that Iceland is a country whose dramatic topography is a direct result of violent seismic activity coupled with the destructive force of glaciers and sub-zero temperatures. Despite having a climate that has never deterred economical and cultural growth in Iceland, land that is suitable for agriculture is scarce as tundra covers over half the surface area of the country, the rest being dominated by the rugged mountain landscapes of an active volcanic zone, a vast number of lakes and glaciers and an extensive coastline punctuated by fjords. Such an incredible diversity of natural environments supports an even greater variety of wildlife and plant species, most of which are included within the boundaries of four national parks, and being far enough north to rub shoulders with the Arctic Circle means that the Northern Lights are guaranteed to put in a regular appearance in the winter skies over Iceland, and the sun can still be shining at midnight at the height of summer.
Home to at least 30 active volcanic systems and possibly more hot springs than any other country in the world, it's small wonder that holiday chalets and apartments in Iceland are unlikely to be found in the uninhabited interior of this geologically restless island, but that doesn't seem to discourage the growing number of hiking, skiing and extreme sport enthusiasts who are arriving in Iceland seeking new destinations in which to pursue their favourite outdoor activities. While fishing, bird-watching, pony-trekking and whale-watching will appeal to those whose love of nature and sense of adventure doesn't involve using up more energy than necessary, Iceland promises something to people all ages and abilities during any season of the year, providing the ideal solution to any family holiday. Apartment rentals in Reykjavik may put you at the heart of a culture-loaded capital city crammed full of opportunities for shopping, leisure and entertainment facilities, but they can also offer the chance to discover the spectacular scenic beauty of Iceland's south-western corner, and with the potential to experience as many aspects of the country's fascinating identity from just one versatile location, a trip to Iceland could turn out to be the most memorable holiday you've ever had.
Back to holiday rentals in Iceland