If you think the national parks in Iceland are cold and barren, well, think again. Or head to Skaftafell National Park in the southern part of the country. Founded in 1967, its already been enlarged twice and is Iceland's second largest national park offering a landscape similar to the Alps, with grassy slopes framed by picturesque peaks.
There are no real roads in the park, but a network of rough trails is perfect for extended hikes - stop at the Visitor's Center and talk to a guide first for the best route. There are camping grounds too, but apparently the gravely ground's a bit tough to nail your spikes into, so beware! The park consists of three distinct areas: Skaftafell and Skeiðarársandur (volcanos and plains) and Lakagigar (a crater area and glacial cap) and all three seem to be favorites.
[Photo: arnitr]
Related Stories:
· Skaftafell National Park Site [Official Site]
· Iceland Travel [Jaunted]
· Skaftafell National Park Travel guide [Nordic Adventure Travel]]]>