Stepping off a plane into the crisp air of December in Iceland is to step into a true winter wonderland. Reykjavik is a small, warm city, which is very vibrant and, surrounded by natural beauty in frozen waterfalls and geothermal hot springs, the Northern Lights that dance in the sky at night. For this journey, it's not only about sightseeing but more about experiencing the country of Iceland sustainably, with respect for the land and diving into the heart of local culture and eco-friendly travel practices.
Exploring Reykjavik’s Sustainable Charms:
Reykjavik offers a warm and compact town feeling that is perfect for visitors who are more interested in enjoying winter wonder when the elements of culture mingle with good environmental care. The fact that the whole town runs using renewable energy streets from geothermal to hydroelectricity, gives this traveller joy knowing that spending time there is actually sponsoring one of the world's best green-friendly energy policies in the global arena.
I wander along the snowy streets and get to see the local shop selling handmade, sustainable crafts and warm Icelandic wool sweaters that are a great eco-friendly souvenir. Local people are so passionate about sustainability, and every little touch, from recyclable packaging in shops to a focus on green energy, reminds me of Iceland's commitment to nature.
Geothermal Hot Springs – The Gift from Nature in Winter:
Among the most excellent sustainable experiences available here is the hot spring bath using geothermal heating. On my way out of Reykjavik, I stopped by the Blue Lagoon. It's this natural setting where one can immerse himself in warm mineral waters with a snowy backdrop. What makes this an awesome experience is that it's all heated from natural geothermal water. The hot springs are, therefore a purely green experience where Iceland's beauty can be admired as one rejuvenates his body and soul.
For the more secluded experience, you have hidden hot springs such as the Secret Lagoon or Reykjadalur Valley, where you just have to hike through snowy trails to reach a hot stream to enjoy nature in its purest form.
Chasing the Northern Lights: An Ecotourism Adventure
Watching the Northern Lights in Reykjavik formed part of my itinerary to the city. The beauty of the aurora borealis here in winter is unforgettable, and Reykjavik provides sustainable ways to have it. I joined one of the small-group tours with an eco-conscious tour operator who ensures low-impact travel and respects the gentle Arctic environment. And that was it, illuminating the night sky with colours dancing shades of green and purple. It felt magical, the magic moment, as the case is, especially with that special knowledge of an ecological-friendly experience.
A Taste of Icelandic Cuisine: Local and Sustainable
The best way to experience Iceland is through its cuisine. The culinary scene in Reykjavik has a taste of traditional Icelandic flavours made from local, sustainable sources. I tried some of the dishes like arctic char and lamb which comes from Iceland's farms for supporting local agriculture while being environmentally friendly. This has a commitment to sustainability and restaurants focus on producing much of their produce locally, making an effort to minimize waste in the process feast to the taste buds as well as the environment.
Freezing waterfalls and beautiful sceneries
December is the right month to see the ice waterfalls in and around Reykjavik. I finally made it to Gullfoss, where the steps cascade down in layers, all of them ice, so fairy tale like, and many of these landscapes were saved because of Iceland's commitment to saving those landscapes, evident across much of the countryside at each stop, a kind of testament to Iceland's regard for the environment.
Conclusion
Reykjavik in December is the green travel enthusiast's dream city. From renewable energy lighting the entire city to guided eco-tours and exploration of geothermal areas, every experience here connects tourists to the natural world around them in Iceland and that it holds as part of its sustainability values. Staying in the winter wonderland of Iceland is not only a feat to please the touring soul but also an avenue for appreciating eco-friendly travelling.