Iceland might already be on your travel bucket list for its stunning waterfalls, glaciers, and the magical Northern Lights, but have you heard about its quirky side? Beyond its picture-perfect landscapes, Iceland is packed with unique attractions that are equal parts bizarre and captivating. This is a place where lava fields stretch as far as the eye can see, turf houses make you feel like you’ve stepped into a hobbit village, and Viking traditions echo through the ages.

But that’s not all—did you know Iceland is home to a museum dedicated entirely to the history of witchcraft and sorcery? Or that you can visit a seaside town with an annual festival celebrating elves and trolls, creatures deeply embedded in Icelandic folklore? And let’s not forget the deliciously eccentric local delicacies, like fermented shark and the beloved hot springs bread, baked underground using geothermal heat.

If you’re up for a mix of jaw-dropping nature, fascinating history, and pure Icelandic eccentricity, here’s your guide to uncovering Iceland’s wacky and wonderful side.

Lava Fields That Feel Like Another Planet

If the surface of Mars had a twin, it would be Iceland’s lava fields. These vast, eerie landscapes are unlike anything you’ve seen before, with twisted black rocks, peculiar moss covering, and an undeniable sense of otherworldliness.

The Birth of the Lava Fields

Iceland sits on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where tectonic plates are continually pulling apart, leading to volcanic activity that shapes the land. When lava erupts and cools, it forms these dramatic rocky areas that feel like they belong in a sci-fi movie.

One of the most famous fields to visit is Eldhraun, formed during the Skaftáreldar eruption in the late 1700s. The moss-covered rocks look like a giant emerald blanket spread across the earth, giving the area an almost magical appearance. Walking through these lava fields makes you feel like an astronaut exploring alien terrain.

A Quirky Adventure

Want to feel your way through Iceland’s volcanic history? Take a tour of the Leidarendi Lava Tube, a cave formed by cooled lava. You’ll climb, crawl, and marvel at colorful rock formations created by flowing magma. It’s not just a geology lesson; it’s an Indiana Jones-style adventure, complete with helmets and headlamps.

When you’re done wandering, don’t forget to snap some photos. These landscapes are Instagram gold, and the mossy textures look even cooler after rainfall, bringing out brighter shades of green.

Turf Houses: Iceland’s Hobbit Homes

If you thought turf houses were the stuff of fantasy films, think again. These cozy, grass-covered homes are as real as it gets and have been part of Icelandic life for centuries.

What Are Turf Houses?

Turf houses are traditional homes built into hillsides or covered with layers of grass and soil. This ingenious design was born out of necessity. Iceland’s early settlers had limited resources and harsh winters to survive, so they used what nature provided. Turf houses offered excellent insulation, keeping the inside warm in winter and cool in summer.

These homes may look small from the outside, but step inside, and you’ll find snug interiors with wooden beams, simple furnishings, and a charming rustic vibe. The balance between practicality and aesthetics makes them fascinating to explore.

Visit a Turf Village

You can see these unique homes up close at the Glaumbær Turf Farm, a historical site in northern Iceland. The cluster of turf houses there gives an idea of what life was like for Icelanders centuries ago. Wander through the old living spaces, complete with colorful decor and tools from bygone days. It’s like stepping into a living museum.

Some turf houses have even been modernized into stylish vacation rentals. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can book a stay in one and live like an old-school Icelander (with a few 21st-century upgrades, of course).

Viking History and Mythology

No trip to Iceland is complete without getting to know its Viking roots. From epic tales of gods and warriors to real archaeological finds, Iceland’s Viking heritage is as colorful and dramatic as its landscapes.

Walk in Viking Footsteps

Start your adventure at Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as the meeting place for Iceland’s Alþingi, the world’s first parliament. Yes, the Vikings didn’t just raid and battle; they also debated laws and took democratic decisions in open-air assemblies. Standing on this historic ground makes you feel like a time traveler.

Nearby, you’ll find Viking World, a museum near Keflavik that houses the Íslendingur, a detailed replica of a real Viking ship. The ship actually sailed from Iceland to North America in 2000, recreating the route believed to have been taken by Leif Erikson, one of history’s most famous Vikings.

Mythical Creatures

Icelandic Viking culture isn’t just about history; it’s also about mythology. From fierce gods like Thor to mystical creatures like the huldufólk (hidden people), Iceland is rich with legends. Locals still tell stories of elves living within rocks and trolls lurking in remote areas. Whether you believe in them or not, these tales add an air of mystery to the country’s already enchanting landscape.

For an immersive Viking experience, check out the Saga Museum in Reykjavík, where life-size figures depict key moments from Iceland’s medieval sagas. Bonus points for taking a cheesy (but fun) Viking selfie in a replica helmet and cloak!

Hot Springs (Because Why Not?)

While Iceland's hot springs are more of a relaxing experience, they are undeniably a quirky part of the country’s personality. Imagine soaking in warm geothermal water surrounded by steam and lava rocks. Hot springs are Iceland’s answer to cold weather and stress.

The Blue Lagoon and Beyond

The Blue Lagoon might be the most famous, but don’t stop there. For a more offbeat (and budget-friendly) option, visit Landbrotalaug, a tiny hot spring in the middle of nowhere, or Myvatn Nature Baths, which offers gorgeous views without the crowds. These geothermal pools are the perfect place to kick back with a towel and enjoy pure Icelandic bliss.

Besides being relaxing, bathing in these mineral-rich waters has health benefits, or so the locals say. And even if it doesn’t cure all your ailments, it’s an excellent way to watch the landscape shift from rugged to serene.