Best Time to Visit Iceland: Summer vs. Winter 

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Iceland’s Unique Seasons

Iceland, a Nordic island nation, is graced with a dramatic climate and distinctive seasons that transform the landscape into entirely different worlds, whether cloaked in the endless daylight of summer or the ethereal glow of the winter auroras. Understanding the nuances of Iceland’s seasons is crucial for travelers aiming to tailor their adventures to their preferences in terms of weather, activities, and natural phenomena.

The country’s northerly location, just below the Arctic Circle, plays a pivotal role in its seasonal variations. The Gulf Stream delivers milder temperatures than one might expect at such latitudes, yet the weather remains unpredictable and can shift rapidly, a characteristic well-known to the resilient locals. Here, travelers find that every season not only offers unique opportunities but also presents its own set of challenges.

The mesmerizing midnight sun, which occurs in Iceland during the summer months of June through August when the sun barely dips below the horizon and provides almost 24 hours of daylight, is a defining feature of the season. This period is ideal for exploring Iceland’s lush, green landscapes, taking long road trips, and engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking, puffin watching, and whale watching.

Conversely, winter descends from November to February and cloaks the island in darkness, with only a few hours of twilight at midday. But it’s not grim; the darkness sets the stage for the magical Northern Lights, ice cave explorations, and the charm of snowy vistas. Temperatures can plummet, and roads can be treacherous, yet the sights are often spellbinding.

The shoulder seasons, spring and autumn, are less predictable. These seasons are characterized by a mix of winter’s chill and summer’s warmth, with April through May and September through October offering fewer tourists and perhaps the most authentic Icelandic experience. It is during these months that one may witness the transitioning beauty of Iceland’s nature.

Travelers to Iceland should be aware that no season guarantees perfect conditions. Each visitor must choose their season based on what they wish to see and experience in this land of fire and ice.

Understanding Iceland’s Summer: The Midnight Sun and Lush Landscapes

Summer in Iceland is a period of continuous wonder, characterized by the remarkable natural phenomenon of the Midnight Sun. This occurs around the summer solstice when the sun barely sets, offering nearly 24 hours of daylight. Travelers can marvel at the sun hovering on the horizon at midnight, creating unparalleled opportunities for sightseeing and photography. This extended daylight profoundly affects the island’s ambience, inviting explorers to experience the vibrant outdoors at unconventional hours.

The Icelandic landscapes undergo a remarkable transformation during summer months. The warmer temperatures and persistent sunlight coax a burst of life from the island’s fertile soil. Rolling hills and valleys are swathed in a verdant tapestry of moss, grass, and wildflowers. The melting snow and ice feeds Iceland’s waterfalls, a prominent feature of its topography, giving them increased vigor.

Enthusiasts of flora and fauna will find summer an opportune time to visit, as:

• Birdlife proliferates, with colonies of puffins, Arctic terns, and other seabirds nesting along the coastlines.
• The countryside comes alive with the blooming of Arctic thyme, lupines, and other unique species adapted to Iceland’s specific climate.

It’s an idyllic season for outdoor activities. Hikers and trekkers can traverse more accessible trails and reach remote destinations that are often impassable during winter. In contrast, adventure seekers may pursue glacier hikes and whale watching—a testament to the diverse experiences Iceland’s summer offers.

Yet, travelers should be prepared for a paradoxically cool summer, as temperatures in Iceland rarely exceed 20°C (68°F). The unique combination of light and landscape, nevertheless, provides a rare spectacle that sets Iceland’s summer apart from any other place on earth.

Exploring Iceland in Summer: Festivals, Puffins, and Whale Watching

The summer season in Iceland is a vibrant period where long days and milder temperatures make for an exciting array of activities. Visitors can immerse themselves in the country’s rich cultural tapestry by attending various festivals that celebrate music, art, and traditional customs.

• Festivals: One of the most renowned is the Secret Solstice Festival, a music event that capitalizes on the midnight sun. For those with a penchant for literature and medieval history, the Viking Festival in Hafnarfjörður offers reenactments, markets, and traditional crafts demonstrations. Iceland’s National Day on June 17th is another cultural highlight, featuring parades, street performances, and patriotic displays.

In the natural realm, the summer is prime time for wildlife enthusiasts. The coastal cliffs become lively with nesting seabirds, particularly puffins.

• Puffins: These charming birds, with their colorful beaks and comical waddles, are a joy to observe. The Westman Islands, Dyrhólaey, and Látrabjarg cliffs are popular puffin-viewing spots. Birdwatchers commonly use binoculars or visit puffin-watching tours that offer close encounters without disturbing the wildlife.

Additionally, the North Atlantic waters around Iceland are teeming with diverse marine life, providing excellent opportunities for whale watching.

• Whale Watching: Husavik and Reykjavik are key departure points for whale-watching tours, where sightings of minke, humpback, and sometimes even blue whales are possible. The calm summer sea conditions enhance the chances of a successful sighting, and the experience is often a highlight for visitors.

Summer travel to Iceland offers a feast for the senses, with the allure of midnight sun festivities, the charm of seabird colonies, and the thrill of spotting giants of the deep.

Outdoor Adventures: Hiking and Trekking in Iceland’s Summer

Summer in Iceland ushers in an invigorating season for outdoor enthusiasts, with hiking and trekking taking center stage amid the island’s magnificent landscapes. The midnight sun graces the skies with nearly 24 hours of daylight, offering ample opportunity to explore Iceland’s diverse terrain.

• Diverse Trails: From the lush valleys of Þórsmörk to the rugged trails of Landmannalaugar, hikers of all levels discover routes that are as challenging as they are breathtaking.
• Wildlife Encounters: As the arctic tundra blooms, adventurers may spot diverse wildlife, including puffins along coastal cliffs and reindeer grazing in the highlands.
• Vibrant Flora: The Icelandic summer is also a time for vibrant flora; blankets of wildflowers and mosses add a splash of color to the volcanic landscape, enhancing the visual experience of each trek.
• Weather Considerations: Travellers should be prepared for quick weather changes; despite warmer temperatures, rain and wind are not uncommon, and proper gear is essential for comfort and safety.
• Guided Tours: For those seeking local insights and historical context, guided tours offer structured treks that delve deep into Iceland’s natural wonders.
• Trekking Permits: Some areas require special permits or reservations, particularly for overnight treks, so planning ahead is crucial.
• Responsible Hiking: Respect for nature is paramount; hikers are encouraged to stay on marked paths to preserve the delicate ecosystems and to leave no trace.

Embarking on a hike or trek in Iceland’s summer allows for full immersion in the land of fire and ice, where each step brings one closer to the heart of its untamed beauty. Whether scaling a dormant volcano or tracing the edges of ancient glaciers, the experience is quintessentially Icelandic, unforgettable in every sense.

The Drawbacks of Summer: Crowds and Cost Considerations

Choosing to visit Iceland during the summer season certainly has its upside, with long days and more manageable weather. However, travelers should be aware of the significant drawbacks that coincide with these advantages, notably the increase in crowds and substantial cost considerations.

During the peak of summer, Iceland becomes an extremely popular destination for tourists seeking to capitalize on the midnight sun and more accessible highland roads. Popular sites like the Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon, and the South Coast can get particularly crowded, which detracts from the tranquil experience many seek in Iceland’s natural landscapes.

• Crowds:
  • Tourist sites are at their busiest, often resulting in long queues.
  • Popular hiking trails can be congested, affecting the serenity of the experience.
  • Wildlife viewing opportunities can be less rewarding due to disturbances.

Coupled with the influx of tourists is the peak in prices. Summer is when you can expect to pay a premium for just about everything, from accommodation to car rentals, tours to flights. This spike in costs puts a strain on your budget, which could limit the duration of your stay or restrict your access to certain experiences.

• Cost Considerations:
  • Accommodation rates soar, with limited deals available.
  • Car rental prices increase significantly, alongside higher demand.
  • Tour prices rise, and availability may be limited without advanced booking.
  • Flight costs are at their highest, and budget-friendly options dwindle.

Budget-conscious travelers and those seeking a more isolated encounter with nature should weigh these factors carefully when planning a trip to Iceland during the summer months. Despite the draw of extended daylight hours and milder temperatures, these considerations are pivotal to ensure a balanced and enjoyable Icelandic adventure.

The Winter Wonderland: Northern Lights and Snowy Scenes

Venturing to Iceland during the winter months unveils a landscape transformed into a scene straight from a fairy tale. The island is swathed in snow, and the cascading waterfalls freeze into spectacular ice formations. In this season, explorers exchange hiking boots for snowshoes and traverse the crystalline terrain, which creates an entirely distinct experience from the verdant summer months.

• Northern Lights: Perhaps the most iconic winter attraction is the Aurora Borealis. These celestial ribbons of green, pink, and violet light undulate across the night sky, casting a magical glow over the snowy expanses. Seekers of this natural phenomenon are advised to venture out on clear, dark nights, away from the light pollution of towns and cities. The best time to catch the Northern Lights in Iceland is from late September to early April, with peak visibility from December through February.
• Snowy Activities: Winter sports enthusiasts find their paradise in Iceland’s frosty majesty. Skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling become the activities of choice, taking advantage of the country’s rugged terrain. Moreover, glacier tours and ice cave explorations offer a glimpse into a frozen world of awe-inspiring beauty and grandeur.
• Practical Considerations: Winter travel does require practical planning. Daylight hours are significantly reduced, with December days offering as little as four hours of light. This sparse daylight emphasizes the importance of efficient time management to fully enjoy outdoor activities. Additionally, roads can be treacherous, so renting a four-wheel-drive vehicle and checking weather conditions regularly is crucial for a safe and enjoyable trip.

Immersing oneself in Iceland’s winter wonderland is to embrace a raw and powerful side of nature, one of serene beauty and stark contrasts, where every scene seems touched by magic, and the Northern Lights dance in the Arctic sky.

Winter Activities in Iceland: Skiing, Ice Caves, and Hot Springs

Winter in Iceland is a season of unparalleled beauty and a host of distinct activities that cater to adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. As temperatures drop, the landscape transforms into a snowy wonderland, offering a playground for an array of exciting activities.

Skiing: Slopes in Iceland may not compare to the Alps in size, but they boast unique features that make them a must-visit for ski enthusiasts. Resorts like Skálafell and Bláfjöll near Reykjavik are popular choices, where both beginners and seasoned skiers can enjoy the pistes with a view of the ocean. The northern town of Akureyri, with its resort Hlíðarfjall, offers more extensive trails and frequently has deeper snow cover, ideal for a more challenging experience.

Ice Caves: Iceland’s winter is the perfect time to explore its enchanting ice caves. These natural wonders are accessible only during the colder months when the glacial ice is solid. Guided tours take visitors into the heart of glaciers like Vatnajökull, where they’re greeted by the mesmerizing blue hues of the cave interiors. Safety is paramount, and local guides ensure visitors can explore these transient formations with the necessary equipment and expertise.

Hot Springs: The geothermal activity in Iceland allows for a unique contrast: soaking in naturally heated pools amid the chill of winter. The Blue Lagoon is iconic, but there are many more hot springs dotted across the island, such as the Secret Lagoon in Flúðir or the Myvatn Nature Baths. Basking in these mineral-rich waters offers not only relaxation and rejuvenation but also the sometimes surreal experience of snow falling around while one remains toasty warm.

Each of these activities offers a unique way to experience Iceland’s dramatic winter season, embodying the spirit of adventure that the country is known for.

Celebrating Christmas and New Year’s in Icelandic Style

Iceland’s Christmas and New Year’s celebrations are steeped in tradition and magical wonder, perfect for visitors looking to experience the holiday season in a unique and festive manner.

Christmas in Iceland is a blend of religious customs and folklore. The festivities usually begin on December 23rd, continuing to Christmas Eve, which is the main day of celebration. Families come together to share a meal, often including hangikjöt (smoked lamb), laufabrauð (leaf bread), and rjúpa (ptarmigan). Homes are adorned with delicate decorations and lights, a warm contrast to the often snowy landscapes outside.

One distinctive Icelandic Christmas tradition is the Yule Lads, a group of 13 mischievous characters who visit children in the 13 days leading up to Christmas. Each night, children place their shoes by the window, and a Yule Lad leaves gifts for those who’ve been good and rotten potatoes for the naughty ones.

As Christmas Day dawns, the emphasis turns to relaxation and spending time with loved ones, sometimes including walks around town to see the festive lights and decorations, or gathering around the TV to watch the annual comic sketch show, ‘Áramótaskaup’.

The New Year’s celebration, on the other hand, is characterized by community bonfires, referred to as ‘Áramót’. These fires are symbolic, representing the burning away of the old year’s troubles. As midnight approaches, the sky lights up with an astonishing display of fireworks. Icelanders take pride in their fireworks displays, and the result is a spectacular show that illuminates theartic night.

Reykjavik’s nightlife becomes particularly vibrant on New Year’s Eve, with locals and visitors alike flocking to bars and clubs after the fireworks, often partying until the early hours of the morning.

Celebrating Christmas and New Year’s in Iceland provides a unique insight into the nation’s culture and offers a rich experience filled with warmth, joy, and communal spirit amidst the wintry charm of the Icelandic landscape.

Challenges of Winter Travel in Iceland: Weather and Accessibility

Traveling to Iceland during the winter months offers a unique experience brimming with snowy landscapes and the chance to witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights. However, winter travel in Iceland also presents several challenges due to its extreme weather conditions and accessibility hurdles.

• Severe Weather Conditions: Iceland’s winter weather is unpredictable and can change swiftly, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Visitors must prepare for heavy snowfall, windstorms, and icy conditions. These severe weather patterns can lead to reduced visibility and hazardous driving conditions, especially for those who are unaccustomed to such environments.
• Short Daylight Hours: Days are significantly shorter during the Icelandic winter, with just a few hours of daylight in December and January. This limited sunlight can curtail sightseeing plans and requires careful scheduling to maximize daylight use.
• Road Closures and Delays: Due to frequent snow and ice, many roads, particularly in rural and highland areas, may become impassable. Roads are often subject to closures without much notice, leading to potential delays and alterations to travel itineraries.
• Restricted Access to Attractions: Some of Iceland’s natural attractions are less accessible or even closed during the winter months. Parts of the Highlands and certain scenic routes, like the F-Roads, are not maintained and are thus only navigable in the summertime.
• Requisite Winter Gear: Adequate winter gear is indispensable for traveler safety and comfort. This includes not only clothing but also specialized tires and vehicles equipped for the terrain and weather conditions.

Prospective travelers must consider these factors and plan meticulously, staying updated with the latest weather forecasts, road conditions, and safety advisories. Those willing to navigate these challenges will find that Iceland’s winter beauty and solitude offer a truly magical and distinctive travel experience.

Comparing Costs: Winter vs. Summer Travel Expenses

When planning a trip to Iceland, the season can significantly impact your budget. The cost considerations between winter and summer travel vary based on factors such as airfare, accommodation, transportation, activities, and clothing.

Airfare and Accommodation

• Winter: Generally, airfare to Iceland is cheaper during the winter months due to lower demand. Accommodation prices also tend to drop, allowing travelers to save on hotels and guesthouses.
• Summer: Peak season in Iceland sees a spike in airfare and accommodation costs. The long days and warmer weather attract more visitors, resulting in higher prices.

Transportation

• Winter: Rental car prices can be lower in winter, but you might need to spend more on a 4×4 vehicle to navigate snowy conditions. Additionally, the cost of tours that include transportation may be higher to account for the challenging weather.
• Summer: While car rental rates are higher in summer, roads are generally clear, and you can opt for a standard vehicle. However, gas prices remain relatively high regardless of the season.

Activities

• Winter: Winter travelers can save on certain activities like skiing or ice caving, as these are off-peak for international tourism. However, guided Northern Lights tours may come at a premium.
• Summer: Popular summer activities such as whale watching, glacier hiking, and puffin tours are in high demand, which can drive the prices up.

Clothing

• Winter: You’ll need to invest in high-quality cold-weather gear, which can add to your travel expenses. Nonetheless, these costs may be mitigated if you already own appropriate attire.
• Summer: Lighter clothing is suitable for summer months, potentially reducing the need for specialized gear.

Budget-conscious travelers should consider these seasonal differences when planning their journey. Although winter may seem less expensive overall, unexpected weather conditions can incur additional costs. Conversely, while summer promises milder conditions and more daylight, prices for nearly all services peak with the tourist influx.

Cultural Experiences: Seasonal Foods and Traditions

Iceland’s stark seasonal contrasts bring a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, particularly in the realm of food and traditions.

In summer, the midnight sun ushers in a bounty of fresh produce. Visitors can indulge in dishes featuring berries, such as krækiber (crowberries), and fish straight from the ocean, like the much-celebrated Icelandic salmon. Seasonal traditions include the National Day on June 17th, celebrating Icelandic independence with parades and festivities, and the vibrant music festivals that enliven the endless days.

Winter in Iceland is synonymous with cozy comfort food. Traditional meals gain prominence, including hearty lamb soup (kjötsúpa) and hangikjöt, smoked lamb often served during the yuletide season. Winter is also the time for Jólabókaflóð, the Christmas Book Flood, where the gift of books is central, and families spend Christmas Eve reading. Thorrablot, an old Viking midwinter feast, offers adventurous palates fermented shark, rams’ testicles, and other unique Icelandic fare.

Both seasons offer the warming embrace of hot springs, highlighting the geothermal marvels of Iceland. However, each of these experiences has a distinctive flavor that varies depending on the time of year, from soaking in a geothermal pool while the Northern Lights dance above to enjoying a hot spring under the midnight sun.

Each season in Iceland presents distinctive cultural experiences bound tightly to the foods and traditions intrinsic to the time of year. Engaging with these elements enriches the visitor’s understanding and appreciation of the Icelandic way of life, offering a deeper connection to the land and its people.

Photography in Iceland: Capturing the Seasonal Contrasts

Iceland presents photographers with a unique palette of natural wonders that dramatically transform with the shifting seasons. A professional photographer must carefully select the season for a visit in accordance to the desired backdrop and lighting conditions for their subject.

Summer: The Land of Midnight Sun

• Endless Daylight: Near 24-hour daylight under the Midnight Sun offers extended golden hours for soft, diffused lighting.
• Vibrant Landscapes: Lush greenery, wildflower blooms, and azure icebergs floating in Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon create vibrant scenes.
• Accessible Highlands: The thawing of winter snow opens up the highlands, revealing hidden gems like Landmannalaugar with its rhyolite mountains.

Winter: The Aurora and Ice

• Northern Lights: The dark winter nights provide the perfect canvas for the celestial dance of the Aurora Borealis.
• Frozen Wonders: Ice caves, frosty waterfalls, and snow-laden landscapes offer a monochromatic contrast to summer’s vibrancy.
• Blue Hour: The shorter days bring prolonged ‘blue hours’ with a surreal, cool light that’s ideal for capturing the stark winter beauty.

Photographers must be prepared to brave the elements, with summer bringing unpredictable weather and winter demanding warm gear to endure the chill. Each season not only changes the look of the land but also alters the technical considerations of exposure, composition, and lighting. Due to these seasonal contrasts, photographers must meticulously plan their journeys to ensure that their portfolio correctly captures the essence of Iceland’s ever-changing, yet always stunning, natural beauty.

Practical Tips for Choosing Your Season: Weather, Daylight, and Tours

Selecting the ideal season for your Icelandic adventure is paramount. Here are some practical tips to consider regarding weather, daylight, and available tours:

• Weather Variability: Iceland is known for its fickle weather, which can change very rapidly. For summer travel (June to August), prepare for milder temperatures ranging from 10°C to 13°C and potential rainfall. In winter (December to February), expect much colder conditions, with temperatures frequently below freezing. Layered clothing is essential in any season, enabling you to adapt to Iceland’s quick weather shifts.
• Daylight Hours: Consider daylight when planning activities. During summer, you experience near 24-hour daylight, known as the midnight sun, offering extended time for sightseeing. Conversely, winter provides minimal daylight—roughly 4 to 5 hours around the solstice—which is perfect for experiencing the northern lights but limits the time for other activities.
• Tour Availability:
  • Summer Tours: With the thawing of winter snow and ice, the highlands become accessible, making summer the only time you can explore these remote regions. Puffin spotting and whale watching are also prime during the summer months.
  • Winter Tours: If you’re drawn to winter activities such as ice caving, snowmobiling, or hunting for the aurora borealis, winter is your season. Note that some tours, particularly those into the highlands, may be inaccessible due to the weather.
• Advance Booking: Regardless of the season, it’s wise to book tours in advance, as the most popular experiences can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons.
• Consider Off-Peak Times: The shoulder seasons—spring and fall—offer a compromise with fewer tourists, potentially more moderate weather, and a mix of summer and winter activities.

Keep an eye on travel advisories and weather forecasts as your trip approaches and remain flexible to adjust your itinerary as needed based on real-time conditions.

Conclusion: Making Your Decision – Summer Memories or Winter Wonders?

When the time comes to decide whether to bask in the endless daylight of an Icelandic summer or marvel at the crystal-clear nights and Northern Lights of its winter, one must weigh their preferences and desires. Both seasons offer a unique tapestry of experiences that cater to different tastes and expectations.

If you envisage a holiday filled with hiking through verdant landscapes, engaging in wildlife watching, and enjoying outdoor festivals, summer is your zenith. The summer months in Iceland present:

• The Midnight Sun, affording almost 24 hours of daylight
• An abundance of accessible trails and natural attractions
• Opportunities for whale watching and puffin sightings
• Warmer temperatures suitable for camping and road trips

On the other hand, those who enjoy winter sports, enchanted by snow-covered landscapes, or who want to search for the elusive Aurora Borealis find Iceland to be appealing. Opting for a winter visit provides:

• A magical backdrop of snow and ice, perfect for photographers and romantics alike
• The potential spectacle of the Northern Lights
• Access to winter activities such as ice caving, skiing, or snowmobiling
• Cultural events like Christmas markets and the New Year’s Eve celebrations in Reykjavik

People also ask

Q: When is the best time to visit Iceland?

A: The best time to visit Iceland depends on your preferences. If you want to enjoy the midnight sun and warmer weather, then the summer months of June to August are ideal. However, if you are interested in experiencing the magical Northern Lights and snowy landscapes, then the winter months from September to March would be best.

Q: What are the best months to visit Iceland?

A: The best months to visit Iceland are June, July, and August for summer and December, January, and February for winter. These months offer the most favorable weather conditions and a wide range of activities to enjoy.

Q: Is it better to visit Iceland in summer or winter?

A: Visiting Iceland in summer offers extended daylight hours, lush landscapes, and a chance to explore various outdoor activities. On the other hand, visiting Iceland in winter provides the opportunity to witness the stunning Northern Lights and engage in winter sports. The choice between the two seasons depends on your preferred experiences.

Q: What can I expect when visiting Iceland in summer?

A: When visiting Iceland in summer, you can expect mild temperatures, long days with almost 24-hour daylight, vibrant vegetation, and the ease of access to popular attractions and outdoor activities. It is the perfect time for road trips, hiking, and sightseeing around the country.

Q: What activities can I enjoy in Iceland during the winter?

A: During the winter months, visitors to Iceland can enjoy activities such as witnessing the Northern Lights, exploring ice caves, partaking in winter sports like skiing and snowmobiling, and indulging in geothermal spa experiences. The winter landscape offers a magical and serene environment for unique adventures.

Q: What are the must-see attractions in Iceland all year round?

A: Some must-see attractions in Iceland that can be enjoyed year-round include the Blue Lagoon, the Golden Circle, the black sand beaches of Vik, the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, and the stunning waterfalls such as Gullfoss and Seljalandsfoss.

Q: Is it possible to see the Northern Lights in Iceland all year?

A: Yes, it is possible to see the Northern Lights in Iceland all year round. However, the best time to witness this natural phenomenon is during the winter months when the nights are longer and darker, providing optimal conditions for viewing the auroras.

Q: What is the weather like in Iceland during the summer months?

A: During the summer months, Iceland experiences mild and pleasant weather with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). The days are long and bright, creating a perfect setting for outdoor adventures and exploration.

Q: Are there tours available in Iceland year-round?

A: Yes, there are tours available in Iceland throughout the year. Whether you visit during summer or winter, you can find a wide range of guided tours that cater to various interests, including sightseeing, adventure, cultural experiences, and nature excursions.

Q: What should I consider when deciding when to visit Iceland?

A: When deciding when to visit Iceland, consider your preferences for weather, activities, and natural phenomena. If you are interested in outdoor activities and extended daylight, summer might be preferable. Conversely, if you want to witness the Northern Lights and explore winter landscapes, then visiting in winter would be more suitable.