Interested in knowing the safest, most peaceful, countries in the world? Two organizations published their findings – Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection (BHTP) and the Institute of Economics and Peace (IEP).  Interestingly, both lists place Iceland as the safest, most peaceful country in the world, an honor it has held for over ten years. So, let’s explore what’s new in 2022 in Iceland.

The Arctic Coast Way

The Arctic Coast Way opened in 2019 so to many it is new in 2022. Get to know Iceland off the beaten path and experience life closest to the Arctic circle. The panoramic way encompasses 900 kilometers (560 miles) of North-Icelandic coastline, six peninsulas, and six islands.  Experience the full range of Icelandic nature: humpback whales and Icelandic horses, puffins in summer, and northern lights in winter. Hiking, diving, horseback riding, jet skiing, and many more outdoor activities await you – the North has it all!

Forest Lagoon (luxury spa)

From an accidental discovery of a new geothermal hot water source deep in the mountain in 2014 springs the Forest Lagoon luxury spa — set to open in 2022. Its wood-clad restaurant and sauna attached to the thermal baths create a cozy cabin feeling.  Surrounded by trees and tranquility, undisturbed by wind and cold, guests submerge themselves in the natural hot springs and soak in the view over the Eyja Fjord and the city of Akureyri on the opposite side of the fjord.

The Westfjords Viewing Platform

Walk to the edge of Bolafjall mountain (2,100 feet high) by standing on a new, massive, steel platform. The Westfjords viewing platform extends over the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, the fjord system of Ísafjarðardjúp, and the village of Bolungarvík.

The Westfjords Way

A new 590-mile circle named the Westfjords Way is making this under-explored region an any season destination. The sweeping landscapes, stunning fjords, cascading waterfalls, unique villages, hot pools, vast beaches, puffins and more sheep than humans make this hidden gem appealing to everyone. Adventurists — hikers, backpackers, cyclists, photographers – enjoy the peaceful roads and incredible trails.

Longest Zipline in Iceland

In June 2022, Hveragerði will have Iceland’s longest zipline. The one-kilometer (.62 miles) line traverses the Svartagljúfur canyon, with a view over southern Iceland. Two lines will run parallel and take off from a platform tower near Route 1. Choose your pace – ‘slow’ travels in a specially designed seat and ‘fast’ can reach up to 120 km (almost 75 mph) in speed. Or, take a ‘quick jump’ from the tower for a mini-bungee jump vibe.

Sustainable (Re-)Development in Selfoss

On the banks of river Ölfusá in South Iceland, the town of Selfoss has sustainably re-built 35 beautiful and historically significant buildings to host shops, restaurants, hotels, art galleries, music venues, and a medieval church to create an entirely new downtown area.

Landsmót: Icelandic Horses, the Outdoors, Live Music and More

They are tölting again! The National Icelandic Horse Competition is back after a four-year long hiatus. It is scheduled to take place in Hella, South Iceland from July 03-09, 2022. The country’s best horses will be showing off their skills, five gaits, and everything else that makes the Icelandic horse so extraordinary! Landsmót is a week-long outdoor party with locals and international guests celebrating the skills of the remarkable Icelandic horse.

Sky Lagoon Seaside Thermal Spa

The Sky Lagoon in Kópavogur is the first geothermal spa to open in the capital area, near Reykjavík. Inspired by traditional Icelandic turf houses, Sky Lagoon’s turf walls were hand-built by local craftsmen using historical techniques. It’s seaside setting offers incredible views of the Bessastaðir peninsula and North Atlantic. Even the 2021 Fagradalsfjall volcano eruption was visible from there!