Reykjavik

Although there’s no guarantee of seeing the aurora borealis, it should be on every traveller’s bucket list. No performance is ever the same and even locals are still mesmerised by its appearance, which illuminates the dark winter skies in soft greens, reds and yellows. The best months to see it is from late September to March, when the skies are darkest.

There are many geothermal areas in Iceland, but the Haukadalur valley in the Golden Circle is the best. It’s home to the Great Geysir and Strokkur, where spouts of hot water erupt almost 200 metres in the air. Great Geysir is much less active nowadays, but Strokkur continues to put on a fantastic show with eruptions almost every five minutes.

The most renowned geothermal spa in Iceland has milky blue waters, a mineral-rich combination of sea and fresh water that’s said to be great for the skin. There are also excellent facilities here, such as steam rooms, a sauna and relaxation area. Sinking into the hot lagoon during winter is heavenly, especially if the Northern Lights appear as you bathe.

Also known as the Polar Day, this natural phenomenon, in which the sun never completely dips below the horizon, occurs during summer in Iceland. It takes some getting used to, but it’s a magical experience. Set your alarm and go for a walk in the middle of the night, while basking in the sunshine.

Jökulsárlón, the largest and most impressive glacier lagoon in the country, is called the crown jewel of Iceland. A Zodiac boat trip is one of the best ways to experience it, as you sail on the icy waters below gigantic icebergs. Walk to Diamond Beach, just half a mile away, to see icebergs that were swept onto the shore, studding the black sand like diamonds.