Places alessandralee Wants to Go

This black church sits alone among a field of lava rock.

Every summer local children form "pysja patrols" to save young birds that have wandered from their nests.

An Icelandic island full of diving birds and legend.

This mountain fissure hides a secret path to a secluded mossy grotto within the rock itself.

Strange rock formations tower above the river that snakes through this enchanting Icelandic canyon.

The oldest (maybe) swimming pool in Iceland is a stunning oasis built into the side of a lush hill.

This hobbit-y little hot spring may be the oldest spring used by humans in all of Iceland.

These ominous lava formations were said to be an entrance to the netherworld so of course they inspired a famous metal band.

This valley of hot springs and boiling mud pots is home to the record-holding "Geysir," which originated the English word.

If a glacial river suddenly diving into a sheer chasm via a dramatic, multi-stage waterfall isn't peak Iceland, it's certainly close.

A trio of hidden hot tubs takes advantage of Iceland's natural geothermal vents.

The Icelandic Sea Monster Museum explores the area's history of aquatic cryptid sightings.

Learn about Iceland's hidden folk at this school dedicated to the study of elves.

Walk in the footsteps of the gods and straddle two tectonic plates.

An encyclopedic collection of mammal penises.

This eye-popping Icelandic crater lake is surrounded by red volcanic rock.

Iceland's largest lagoon is home to stunning multi-colored icebergs.

This fantastical waterfall is hidden in a cave located in a cracked cliff.

This volcanic cave lake is essentially hard proof that Iceland is the most magical place on Earth.

Rising from the sea like a stone monster.

The unique waterfall in Iceland's south features a backdrop of geometric black lava columns.

Old cabin-like homes in a rural community untouched by time are known for their vibrant and colorful window shutters.

These mechanical goats first battled it out in the year 1551, all because of an overcooked deer.

Poland's oldest salt mine has nearly everything one needs to live underground forever.