One of the world’s most stunning natural wonders, the centuries old ice coming down the slopes of ?raefaj?kull via the Sv?nafellsj?kull glacier Iceland has had almost all of the air pressed out of it, turning the ice into a positively magical blue that has to be seen to be believed.
The ecotourist will be pleased to hear that Iceland is credited as being one of the most environmentally responsible countries on the planet, and so once there the green traveller will find plenty of opportunities to base their activities on hiking, biking, horseback riding, or other activities that do not consume fossil fuels.
If looking for a package holiday out to the island country, the Association of Independent Tour Operators recommends, with a Responsible Tourism accreditation, Discover The World’s Iceland Holidays. Here you can choose from whale watching tours, Northern Lights tours, and even a Golden Circle Tour, which encompasses the double-tiered waterfall of Gullfoss, the geothermal hotspot Geyser with its erupting plumes of water, and tectonic beauty spot Thingvellir National Park, all in the comforting knowledge that you are dealing with a well-reputed responsible touring company.
If, on the other hand, you just need a place to stay so you may go and explore the Crystal Cave and other natural treats the Iceland has to offer, then no ecotourism hotel comes higher in recommendation than Hotel Hellnar. This hotel is at the foot of the enormous ice-covered Snaefellsj?kull glacier and is the first hotel in Iceland to be awarded the Green Globe eco-label. The hotel does offer its own glacier tours, as well as hiking and horseback riding tours, and is proud to serve up traditional Icelandic cuisine on its menu, as well as organic wines and beers. This is a real winner for the ecotourist.