Skip to content
Search

Latest Stories

Where history and nature collide: Exploring the wonders of Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir holds immense historical importance as the site where the Althing, the Icelandic parliament, was established in 930 AD

Where history and nature collide: Exploring the wonders of Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir National Park, located in Iceland, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its rich cultural and natural history. Established in 1930, it is one of Iceland’s most iconic destinations. The park’s remarkable landscapes, historical significance, and geological wonders make it an essential stop for travelers.

Historical Significance

Thingvellir holds immense historical importance as the site where the Althing, the Icelandic parliament, was established in 930 AD. This assembly, which continued until 1798, marks the foundation of Icelandic governance and law. Visitors can explore the Logberg (Law Rock), where the Law Speaker proclaimed laws during assemblies. The park also preserves the memory of key events in Iceland’s history, including the adoption of Christianity in 1000 AD and the country’s journey toward independence.


Natural Wonders

The park lies on the tectonic plate boundary between the North American and Eurasian plates, making it a geological marvel. Visitors can witness the rifting of the Earth’s crust in the Almannagja gorge and learn about the continental drift through interactive exhibits at the visitor center. The clear waters of Lake Thingvallavatn and the park’s unique ecosystems solidify Thingvellir as a global natural treasure.

Activities and Attractions

  • Hiking: Numerous trails guide visitors through the park’s diverse landscapes, including abandoned farm sites and scenic routes like Langistigur.
  • Angling: Lake Thingvallavatn is renowned for brown trout and Arctic charr fishing.
  • Diving and Snorkeling: Silfra, a submerged rift, offers unparalleled underwater visibility, attracting divers from around the world.
  • Horse Riding: Designated trails allow riders to experience the park’s natural beauty.

Visitor Center and Exhibitions

The visitor center at Hakid offers an interactive experience with the Heart of Iceland exhibition, which won Red Dot Design awards for its innovative presentation. The exhibition explores Thingvellir’s history, geology, and cultural significance. Temporary exhibits, such as Gunnar Geir Vigfusson’s photo collection of foreign dignitaries at Thingvellir, provide additional insights into the park's international relevance.

Environmental and Architectural Achievements

The visitor center is BREEAM-certified, highlighting sustainable and eco-friendly design. It incorporates soundproofing, energy efficiency, and minimal ecological impact, reflecting the park’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

Thingvellir National Park is where history, culture, and nature converge, offering a unique experience that resonates with both Icelanders and international visitors. Whether exploring its historical landmarks, marveling at its geological features, or enjoying recreational activities, Thingvellir stands as a testament to Iceland’s heritage and natural beauty.

More For You

‘UK, Take Notes’: British YouTuber Raves About Indian Train Meal

Many viewers were both amused and impressed by the efficiency of Indian railway food delivery

Instagram/ georgebxckley

British YouTuber’s train meal in India leaves him saying, 'UK, take notes'

A British content creator recently experienced a unique moment while travelling by train across India—receiving a food delivery directly to his seat. George Buckley, a travel and lifestyle influencer, captured the experience in a video, showing how a meal ordered through Zomato was delivered to him at Kanpur Central Station during a brief five-minute stop.

Buckley uploaded the video with a humorous caption: "The UK needs to take notes." In the clip, he documents the full process, from ordering to receiving the meal, and thanks a fellow Indian passenger who helped him. “It was great meeting you, my friend,” he wrote in appreciation.

Keep ReadingShow less
budget friendly spring destinations

Lock in affordable trips and avoid inflated prices

iStock

Top 7 budget-friendly spring destinations for 2025

With spring break just around the corner, it's time to lock in affordable trips and avoid inflated prices. Booking three weeks to a month in advance can help secure the best deals. Spring 2025 is shaping up to be a great time for travel, with airfares for international trips down by 3% and hotel rates decreasing by 2%, making it easier than ever to plan a memorable trip without breaking the bank. Here are seven top destinations to explore on a budget this spring.

1. Big Bear, California

Big Bear Lake, CaliforniaiStock

Keep ReadingShow less
women solo travel

Travel solo safely while exploring new cultures

iStock

Top 10 solo travel destinations for women in 2025

In celebration of International Women's Day 2025, what better way to honour independence and self-discovery than by embarking on a solo adventure? Travelling alone as a woman can be an empowering and transformative experience, offering a perfect balance of serenity, adventure, and personal growth. Whether you're craving the tranquillity of nature or the thrill of an urban adventure, we've compiled a list of the top 10 destinations where women can travel solo safely while exploring new cultures, landscapes, and themselves.

1. Iceland: The land of fire and ice

Icelandic HighlandsiStocks

Keep ReadingShow less
UK destinations

London Collage

iStock

6 popular set-jetting UK destinations featured on screen

Have you ever watched a movie or TV show and found yourself daydreaming about visiting the locations where it was filmed? If so, you’re not alone. The rise of set-jetting to destinations featured in popular films and series has turned many filming locations into bucket-list spots for travellers. The UK, with its historic cities, lush landscapes, and iconic landmarks, has played host to some of the world’s most beloved stories. Whether you’re a die-hard Harry Potter fan or simply looking for stunning travel destinations, the UK offers you countless spots where fiction meets reality.

London: The timeless star of the screen

Keep ReadingShow less
'Living like a local in Bali has changed how I see solo travel’

From lush greenery to serene sunsets

'Living like a local in Bali has changed how I see solo travel’

Minreet Kaur

I HAVE not done much solo travel until I hit 43 and one of my all-time favourite destinations to visit was Bali.

However, I believed it was a destination for couples and all I had ever seen were luxurious hotels on the beach.

Keep ReadingShow less