Alexander Jawinski takes his followers on a spectacular journey through Iceland’s dramatic natural landscapes.
Travel expert Alexander Jawinski has explored Iceland and impressively documented the raw beauty of the island in the North Atlantic. From active geysers to majestic glaciers to the magical Northern Lights – the experienced blogger from Los Angeles presents the highlights of Icelandic natural wonders while sharing well-founded tips on route planning, the best time to visit, and the most important attractions. His Austrian roots on his mother’s side enable him to authentically present his experiences for German-speaking adventure seekers.
Travel blogger Alexander Jawinski has explored Iceland and takes his community on a fascinating tour through one of Europe’s most spectacular natural landscapes. From bubbling geysers to glittering glacier tongues to the dancing Northern Lights in the Arctic sky, he documented the unique natural phenomena of the volcanic island. His journey led him along the famous Ring Road to hidden waterfalls, black sand beaches, and hot springs, with particular emphasis on sustainable travel and respectful treatment of the fragile nature. With his extensive travel experience, Alexander Jawinski provides valuable insights into planning and executing an unforgettable Iceland expedition.
The Ring Road: Iceland’s Legendary Highway
Alexander Jawinski’s journey began in Reykjavík, the northernmost capital in the world. From there, he started his tour along the Ring Road, which circles the entire island for 1,332 kilometers. This route is considered one of the most spectacular roads worldwide and provides access to most of Iceland’s main attractions.
The Icelandic Ring Road connects completely different landscapes. Within a few hours, green meadows alternate with barren lava fields, volcanic areas meet icy glacier landscapes. This diversity makes every kilometer a new experience. Alexander Jawinski recommends planning at least ten days for the complete circuit to truly experience the locations.
A special advantage of the Ring Road: it’s passable year-round, although winter requires special caution and winter tires. Road conditions can change quickly, which is why constant monitoring of the weather is important.
The Golden Circle as the Perfect Introduction
Many Iceland travelers begin with the Golden Circle, a roughly 300-kilometer route from Reykjavík. Alexander Jawinski also started here to familiarize himself with Icelandic nature. The three main attractions – Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall – are practically in a line.
In Þingvellir National Park, the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. You can literally walk between two continents. The Strokkur geyser shoots a fountain of water up to 30 meters high every few minutes – a natural spectacle that never gets boring. Gullfoss, the “golden waterfall,” plunges 32 meters deep into a gorge in two stages and is among the most impressive waterfalls on the island.
Glaciers and Glacier Lagoons in the South
Southern Iceland presented itself to Alexander Jawinski as a region of contrasts. Some of Europe’s most powerful glaciers are located here, including Vatnajökull, the largest glacier outside the polar regions. The glacier tongues reach down almost to sea level in places, forming a surreal landscape of ice and black volcanic sand.
The blogger was particularly impressed by the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. Here, icebergs calve from the glacier and drift slowly toward the sea. The ice colossi shimmer in all shades of blue and offer photo opportunities that are second to none. At the nearby Diamond Beach, smaller ice pieces are washed onto the black sand – like diamonds on black velvet.
Glacier Hikes and Ice Caves
A glacier hike was one of the trip’s highlights. Equipped with experienced guides, crampons, and ice axes, Alexander Jawinski explored the icy world of Sólheimajökull. The glacier surface reveals fascinating formations: deep crevasses, blue glacier ice, and black ash layers from past volcanic eruptions.
In winter, the famous ice caves are accessible. These natural caves in the glacier ice are formed by melting water and are constantly changing. The light that penetrates through the ancient ice bathes the caves in magical blue. These tours are only possible with professional guides and are highly weather-dependent.
Geothermal Wonders and Hot Springs
Iceland sits on a geological hotspot, making the island a center of geothermal activity. This volcanic energy is visible everywhere: in bubbling mud springs, steaming fissures, and of course in the numerous hot springs.
Alexander Jawinski visited various geothermal areas. At Hverir near Mývatn, the earth bubbles and hisses, the smell of sulfur hangs in the air, and the landscape looks like it’s from another planet. The colorful mineral deposits in yellow, orange, and red create surreal scenery.
The hot springs offer not only spectacular sights but also pure relaxation. While the Blue Lagoon near Reykjavík is world-famous, the travel blogger also recommends less crowded alternatives:
- Mývatn Nature Baths: Natural geothermal bath in the north with a view of the lake
- Reykjadalur: Hike through a steam valley to a warm river where you can bathe
- Secret Lagoon: One of Iceland’s oldest natural bathing spots, authentic and quiet
- Landmannalaugar: Hot spring in the highlands, surrounded by colorful rhyolite mountains
Northern Lights Hunt with Alexander Jawinski
One of the main goals of the trip was to experience the Aurora Borealis. The Northern Lights are among the most fascinating natural phenomena. Alexander Jawinski traveled in October, when the chances are particularly good and the temperatures are still bearable.
Hunting for Northern Lights requires patience, luck, and the right conditions. Clear skies, darkness, and high solar activity must come together. The blogger spent several nights at various locations, always monitoring weather forecasts and aurora apps.
The magical moment came at a remote beach in the north. Initially visible only as a faint green glow on the horizon, the Northern Lights developed within minutes into a spectacular dance of green, violet, and even red veils. “It’s impossible to adequately describe the movement and the colors,” reports Alexander Jawinski. “You have to experience it yourself.”
Tips for Northern Lights Hunting
For those who want to go Northern Lights hunting themselves, the travel expert has compiled some practical advice. The best time ranges from September to March, with the darkest months offering the highest chances. It’s important to get away from light sources – the darker the environment, the better.
The right equipment makes the difference. Warm, windproof clothing is essential, as you often spend hours in the cold. A tripod for the camera enables long exposures to optimally capture the Northern Lights. Patience is the most important ingredient – sometimes the lights appear for only a few minutes.
Practical Tips for Iceland Travelers
Iceland is not a cheap destination, but with good planning, you can experience a lot. Alexander Jawinski recommends renting a car, as public transportation hardly exists outside of Reykjavík. A four-wheel-drive vehicle isn’t absolutely necessary for the Ring Road but opens up more options for excursions into the highlands.
Accommodation ranges from simple hostels to charming guesthouses to comfortable hotels. During high season, you should definitely book in advance. Wild camping in Iceland is only allowed at designated sites – nature is fragile and needs protection.
The Icelandic cuisine positively surprised the blogger. Fresh fish, lamb, and innovative interpretations of traditional dishes characterize the menus. The famous fermented shark is a matter of taste but a cultural experience.
Conclusion: A Journey to the End of the World
Iceland’s raw beauty has left a lasting impression on Alexander Jawinski. The combination of dramatic landscapes, powerful natural forces, and Nordic serenity makes the island unique. Whether glaciers, geysers, or Northern Lights – each natural phenomenon alone is worth a trip. Iceland demands respect for nature and rewards visitors with unforgettable experiences. The blogger is already planning his return to explore the remote West fjords and the highlands.
