Simply Abu Dhabi XXX

9 1 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I As the largest island of Europe, Iceland is also known as one of the youngest landmasses on the planet, and consequently home to some of the world’s most active volcanoes. Add to that a landscape characterised by geysers, waterfalls, black sand beaches, steaming lava fields and glaciers with Europe’s largest Vatnajökull on the lower-east side of the island, and it seems to be an island concentrated with natural powers at your feet—quite literally. Discovered as Snowland From the sky the rugged terrain of the land below, besides being dramatic, is a constant reminder of the quest against the weather gods. Here, rocky ridges follow the paths where snow turns into crystalclear water, emeraldgreen landscapes disguise the overgrown layers and streams run as veins through flowing meadows weaving through peaks and down the waterfalls, some even reaching the sea below. It is not for no reason that when Iceland was first discovered it was called ‘Snowland’, and only stumbled upon when the Viking ship with the first settlers had been blown off course. In summer, when fields are covered with colourful wild flowers, peaks of wooden cabins emerge and the sun reveals the island’s diverse landscapes that is when the magic truly happens. Many an island saga tells the story there is much more on the island than what initially meets the eye. This island, risen from the cold Atlantic waters, yet warmed by the Gulf Stream, is a destination with a soft climate in summer and mostly mild winters, although the weather can be quite unpredictable. Many of those visiting feel overwhelmed by Iceland’s striking nature. Almost a mistrust of her astonishing natural beauty, thus hard to comprehend. The flowing, mountain ridges, slivers of glacial blue waters, mosscovered boulders and layered lava rocks, the scenery of