Iceland is literally a country in the making, a vast volcanic laboratory where mighty forces shape the land and shrink you to an awestruck speck. The country’s natural features eruptions of lava; gushing geysers such as Geysir in The Golden Circle (the original after which all were named); hot springs; tearing fissures and slow, grinding glaciers are so cinematic that at times they seem unreal. Bathe in turquoise pools, stand behind a toppling cascade or walk across a glaring-white icecap to experience the full weirdness of Icelandic nature.

Full country name: republic of Iceland
Area: 103,000 sq ( 39,769 sq mil)
Population: 300,000
Capitals: Reykjavik
People: 97% Icelanders
Language: The official language is Icelandic; English and Danish are widely spoken
Religion: Lutheran, with a Catholic minority.
Government: Republic
GDP: US$6,4 billion
Major industries: Fishing, aquaculture, aluminum smelting & geothermal power
Major trading partners: EU (esp. Germany, Norway, UK, Denmark, Sweden), USA