The island experiences non-stop daylight in June and July
The island experiences non-stop daylight in June and July because of Earth's polar tilt as it revolves around the sun. The phenomenon opens up some offbeat opportunities -- like midnight golf.
"That's the most amazing thing," said one golfer. "You start at the midnight hour and you play golf in the midnight sun, which is pretty unique."
Some even try the game with a black ball -- just for the fun of it.
Summer is the time to visit Iceland Mild temperatures, more light in summer
On and off the links, summer is the time to visit Iceland. Temperatures are mildest -- about 55 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit (13 to 16 Celsius) on average, although the country doesn't get extremely cold even in the winter, since it's washed by Gulf Stream ocean currents.
For any visitor, the must-sees begin in the capital. Reykjavik is especially tourist-friendly because it's small and most people speak English.
The Pearl, a luxury restaurant sitting atop half a dozen water tanks, is one of Reykjavik's most impressive sites.
"It also gives heat to Reykjavik because there is heated water in six tanks ... around The Pearl," said the restaurant's Thorkell Erricson. "It's actually a great big oven."
The Pearl, like most everything in Iceland, is expensive. In fact, this is Europe's most expensive country, because it is so dependant on imports. Hotel rooms start at about $100 a night double-occupancy, and simple dinners run between $20 and $35 a person.
Heated pools make swimming Iceland's national pastime Year-round swimming
On the more frugal side, Iceland's national pastime can be had for a song.
"Part of our biggest attraction is our swimming pools," said Reykjavik Mayor Injibjorg Solrun Gisladottir. "We have a very exceptional culture here with swimming pools, because we swim in them year-round."
And Icelanders swim outdoors too -- no matter what the weather, often in the morning before heading off to work.
Wild Iceland is most accessible in the summer -- and there are limitless ways to see the countryside. One way: by horseback. Stables all over the country offer trips using the famously stubby and rugged Icelandic pony.
A more rugged ride can be had snowmobiling across glaciers. Two companies offer one-hour to one-week guided trips.
Hiking, rafting, whale-watching -- the options go on and on. To make sense of it all, investigate tour packages with a travel agent, because no matter what your Icelandic destination, nature on the island demands that you be prepared.
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