Reykjavik is a fantastic city. But pity the fool who doesn’t rent a car and get the hell out for a few days. Two hours south of the capital, just three miles from the sea and easily accessed via the Southern Ring Road, is Skógafoss, one of the largest and most deafening waterfalls in Iceland: 82 feet wide, 200 feet tall, and all muscle. Not surprisingly, the majestic waterfall has appeared in many films and music videos, including Thor: The Dark World and The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. The billowing mist is drenching: Pack a windbreaker and prepare to see rainbows on sunny days. Do take care climbing the steep steps to the overlook—constant spray makes it easy to slip, face- and camera-first, into the mud. (Yes, we speak from experience.)

Skógar, Iceland; no phone.