Lupine fields and church at sunrise, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Iceland

© Matteo Colombo/Getty Image

'Lupin' into summer. Lupine fields, Snæfellsnes, Iceland

As spring gives way to summer in Iceland, the rugged landscape puts on a colourful parade. Lupines were introduced to Iceland in the 1940s for soil erosion control due to their roots' soil-binding properties. The plant flourishes in sandy and salty soils and propagates rapidly, painting the countryside with hues of purple, pink and blue. Although some consider lupine to be an invasive species that threatens native plants, its arrival is welcomed by locals and tourists as a cherished characteristic of the summer landscape. You can find lupine fields in various regions, including Reykjavík and near the Skógafoss waterfall. These flowers also line the road leading to the Hellissandur Church in the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, as seen in today's image.

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula, in addition to its beautiful lupine blooms, showcases a wealth of distinctive geological features. If you ever want to experience towering volcanoes, expansive lava fields, enchanting glaciers and unspoiled beaches all in one location, this is where you need to be.