Oct 28, 2019 BY AWE365 Team
Fancy Iceland adventure sports holidays just without the ice, snow and cold? Then check out the 13 best Icelandic summer activities below. We guarantee they will get you outdoors, adventuring and having fun!
Strangers to Iceland could be fooled into thinking extreme sports in Iceland are restricted to snow sports. They’re not.
From mid May to September the average daily high is over ten degrees. And while its never going to be a beach and sun destination in the height of summer temperatures can hit the twenties.
In Iceland there are a large range of outdoor activities you can get involved in that avoid ice and snow. However if the cold does not phase you check out this article about the best outdoor activities in Iceland.
But for those of you who want to avoid the white stuff during Iceland adventure sports holidays check out the list below:
On an island built from the rock of volcanic eruptions, there are plenty of caves to explore. Lava tubes have left interesting underground to explore in the Thingvellir National Park and the Blue Mountains.
You can take trips to glacial rivers and through the coastline’s lagoons. The scenery here is second to none. And what better way to enjoy nature than in an emission-free kayak or canoe. Easily one of the best Icelandic summer activities.
If kayaking sounds a little placid, then consider whitewater rafting in Iceland. Glacial waters pour into Iceland’s canyons, funnelling water and kicking up rapids. Great sites include one near Reykjavik and another on the Hvita River.
Receiving the full force of the Atlantic Ocean and Arctic Sea surfing in Iceland can be very good. However even if there is no snow and ice conditions are very cold and suited to experienced surfers only.
Iceland’s jaw dropping scenery is criss crossed with stunning single track offering every type of mountain biking you could imagine. Enduro, cross country and heli biking are all possible.
There are trails of varying difficulty and around every corner is another view to die for. If you like to MTB then Iceland adventure sports holidays are for you!
Yes, Iceland is not just rocks and mud. There have been great improvements to Iceland’s roads, something cyclists always appreciate. For a complete round trip, try Ring Road 1.
This route encircles the island and is approximately 1,300 km long – quite a ride! Touring cyclists should still expect mixed surfaces, and riders should take plenty of spares, as they are not always easy to source.
Iceland has four major climbing spots making it one of the best Icelandic summer activities. Hnappavellir, fours hours from Reykjavik is the largest with around 90 routes reaching up to 20m.
There are also around 60 trad routes at the Stardalur cliffs just 30km from the capitol. You’ll also find good climbing at Skinnhúfuklettar and Munkaþverárgil.
There are also a plethora of mountain ranges, icefields, waterfalls, bays and fjords in Iceland to explore. The best way to take in the dramatic scenery is on foot. Whether it’s in the north-eastern inlets or through the country’s southern highlands, walkers will never feel short-changed.
The island’s highest peak is the barely pronounceable Hvannadalshnukur (2,110m). It’s a strenuous 12-14 hour hike that is available during the summer.
Iceland has 25 mountains that peak at over 1,000m that are worth hiking on Iceland adventure sports holidays. Although we can’t promise there will be no snow or ice on top we can guarantee it’s worth the effort.
Just because this isn’t the Great Barrier Reef, doesn’t mean we can’t get suited up and into the water. Here the seas have a clarity usually found only in mineral water with plenty of marine life. Although you’ll probably want a drysuit.
Check out scuba opportunities at Thingvellir National Park and Silfra. Here you can dive between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates for a truly unique experience.
We hope you found this guide to Iceland adventure sports holidays useful. The 13 best Icelandic summer activities inspired a visit? Then check out our Iceland adventure discounts as you could save a fortune.
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