Many imagine Iceland to be a very cold place with frozen landscapes, which is partly true. However, this island country in the North Atlantic Ocean has much more to offer. To get you started, here are five reasons to visit Iceland.

Iceland - The Land of Fire and Ice

Iceland is a country of contrasting landscapes, which is why it is called the Land of Fire and Ice. Indeed, you will find many glaciers when you visit Iceland, particularly in the western parts of the country, including the largest in Europe - the Vatnajokull, but at the same time, you will also find dozens of volcanoes, both active and extinct, along with plenty of lava fields, hot springs and geysers. In fact, Iceland has more hot springs than any country on earth while the term geyser itself is derived from Iceland's Great Geysir in Haukadalur.

Aside from these, Iceland also has many waterfalls, including Dettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in Europe and the beautiful Black Falls. It also has many lakes, rivers, fjords, mountains, and small islands, like the Westman Islands, which are all worth exploring. To experience the best of Iceland's natural wonders, make sure you head to the Golden Circle, venture into the Highlands, or drop by the country's national parks - Snaefellsjokul, Vatnajokull and Thingvellir - and prepare to be awed.

Icelandic Folklore

Iceland is not only rich in natural wonders. It also has an interesting wealth of cultural heritage, which is particularly evident in its family sagas and folktales concerning sorcerers, ghosts and mythical creatures such as dragons, elves, dwarves, trolls and ogres. If you want to hear these tales or learn more about these creatures, you should go to Lambi and Hafnarfjorour, where elves are said to dwell or simply ask one of the locals. You can also visit the Icelandic Wonders Museum to get a glimpse of the lives of elves and trolls or take a class at the Icelandic Elf School.

Winter Wonderland

Winter is a magical season in Iceland, when the mountains and plains are covered in fresh snow, the lakes and waterfalls freeze over and the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights put up a heavenly show, lighting up the skies in many parts of the country. This is especially true during the Christmas season, when entire cities, towns and villages are illuminated with twinkling nights and the thirteen Yule Lads wander around to spread mischief and Christmas cheer. You can even visit the Yule Lads in their caves near Akureyri. Although many roads are closed, there are still plenty of activities available, particularly winter sports like skiing, ice skating and bobsledding. The largest ski resort in Iceland is Blafjoll, which is just several minutes away from the capital city, Reykjavik.

Horse Tours and Other Exciting Outdoor Adventures

Iceland is also well known for its unique horse breed, which, though small, is known for being hardy and easy to ride, and the chance to ride one is one of the reasons why you should visit Iceland. Indeed, riding an Icelandic horse is a rare and amazing experience which you should try out and it is definitely a great way to explore Iceland's beautiful natural landscapes, especially since Icelandic horses remain sure-footed on most terrains. For this reason, there are many horse tours available in Iceland, with varying itineraries and duration.

Aside from horse back riding, there are many other exciting outdoor activities for you to try when you visit Iceland, such as playing golf under the midnight sun, cycling around Reykjavik and hiking in the mountains and fjords. Water sports abound, as well, such as rafting, swimming, sea kayaking and sport fishing. One of the things you shouldn't miss, though, is the wildlife encounters Iceland has to offer, like birdwatching in Latrabjarg and catching a glimpse of the minke, blue, humpback and killer whales off the coast of Husavik.

Music

Icelanders are music lovers so look forward to an interesting music scene when you visit Iceland. Here, you will hear folk songs streaming from small villages and local pubs, classical music resounding from concert halls and theaters, rock music pulsating in the various night clubs and many other types of music. In fact, Iceland even has its own metal scene, while jazz fans will love hanging around during the Reykjavik Jazz Festival. Of course, Bjork's albums are sold in almost every music store, too, and if you're lucky, you might even get to watch one of her concerts.