From horses to hot spa

Icelandic horses are sure-footed as they pick their way up the valley.

The Vikings, who settled Iceland in the 9th century, took advantage of all this geothermal energy.

You might not have guessed it, given their reputation as hard-core explorers and warriors, but the Vikings were a surprisingly pastoral race. After all, it's tough to survive on the results of pillaging alone.

The early Icelandic settlers were successful farmers, planting crops such as turnips, potatoes and kale in the naturally warmed ground. This meant they grew faster and could be harvested earlier - a definite boon given Iceland's brief, cool summers.

Now, modern Icelanders have integrated the power of the hot springs into their daily lives.

Farmers harness geothermal energy to power the grow lights in the many greenhouses that dot the island. And no town or city is complete without a community thermal pool, filled with water heated with energy pulled from deep below the Earth's crust.

These communal pools are cheap and affordable for any traveler to experience. Try the thermal beach just outside the main city of Reykjavik, or head to Laugardalslaug, one of the city's biggest. Just 550 ISK ($4.50) gains you entrance, and if you have forgotten your towel or even your swimsuit, you can rent one.

But the best way to experience the hot springs, in my opinion, is with a trip to the famous Blue Lagoon. Located in between Reykjavik and the international airport, it is a quick and easy destination even if you are just stopping over for a few hours. The pools themselves are vast, so leave yourself enough time to explore.

I started with a drink at the swim-up bar, before heading down toward the spa area where I could cover myself in the special mud from the depths of the lagoon. There's also a waterfall, steam room and sauna - and if you feel like pampering yourself, you can get a full body massage while floating in the balmy waters of the lagoon.

I'd found my favorite spot - nestled into the far corner of the lagoon was a quiet nook with a natural bench at just the right height. Submerged right up to my chin, I was so warm and relaxed I never wanted to leave - the rigors of the ride the day before quickly melted away.

So if you find yourself in Iceland, don't miss the hot springs - whether by tour bus or by horse, they are a warm respite on a cold and desolate island.