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Iceland’s Decade-Long Journey to Harmony: Tourism Meets Tranquillity

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13 November 2025

Iceland’s Decade-Long Journey to Harmony: Tourism Meets Tranquillity

Adventure tourism

Coastal, maritime and inland water tourism

Cultural tourism

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Discover how Iceland transformed from a seasonal tourist hotspot to a year-round haven, balancing exploration with sustainable practices. With a commitment to spreading tourism beyond its peak months and fostering local community benefits, Iceland has become a model for sustainable tourism. This transformation not only preserves the country's pristine nature but also enriches visitors' experiences with diverse offerings.

Authors

Editorial team

Topics
Geographical descriptors

Iceland

Organisation Type

Destination Management & Marketing Organisations

  • Specific types of tourism

    • Adventure tourism

    • Coastal, maritime and inland water tourism

    • Cultural tourism

    • Ecotourism

    • Education tourism

    • Festival tourism

    • Gastronomy tourism

    • Health and medical tourism

    • MICE tourism

    • Mountain tourism

    • Religious tourism

    • Rural tourism

    • Sports tourism

    • Urban/city tourism

    • Wellness tourism

  • Transition Pathway Strategic Areas

    • Governance of tourism destinations

    • R&I on climate-friendly tourism

    • Tourism strategies

  • Business activities

    • Activities of associations and other organisations supporting tourism

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Iceland, the "land of fire and ice," has redefined itself over the past decade, attracting visitors beyond its traditional summer peak. Under the leadership of Oddný Arnarsdóttir from Visit Iceland, the nation has stabilized annual tourist numbers to between 2.1 and 2.3 million, with efforts focused on spreading this influx year-round. Key developments like the introduction of volcanic-themed attractions and wellness retreats, combined with an emphasis on culinary tourism, have created unique experiences for travelers venturing beyond Reykjavík.

The country's dedication to sustainability, utilizing renewable energy and minimizing environmental footprints, underpins this evolution. Arnarsdóttir advocates for a more leisurely exploration of Iceland's regions, highlighting local customs, and enticing visitors with cultural gems like the Yule Lads.

For a full exploration of Iceland's remarkable journey in sustainable tourism, we recommend reading the complete article through the link provided on the left-hand side of the platform and visiting the Visit Iceland website for more travel inspiration.

 

#Sustainable tourism #Ecotourism #Community-based tourism #Responsible travel #Eco-friendly accommodations #Wellness tourism

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