It is Europe's most western country and lies in a strategic location in the North Atlantic, just south of the Arctic Circle. Previously a Danish possession, Iceland became fully independent in 1944.
Most settlements are along the coast to ensure that ports remain ice-free in the winter.
Ice you can understand. This is because the country lies on the rift where the North American and European continental plates are pulling apart. This gives rise to some 200 volcanoes plus numerous geysers and solfataras. Bear in mind, though, you might not see any ice - unless you go in the winter. So let's clear up a few things first.