Approximate Distance:
165 km / 103 miles
Famous national park – Lively geysers – Golden waterfall
Visit the Golden Circle natural wonders. Drive to Þingvellir National Park, the site of Iceland’s ancient parliament and a real gem of natural scenery. Explore Gullfoss, the “Golden Waterfall”, and the nearby Geysir hot spring area to see the famous Geysir and Strokkur, as well as numerous other hot springs and boiling mud pools. While in the area, take advantage of relaxing in one of the local favourite hot spring-fed pools that make Iceland so famous. The Secret Lagoon is a historical swimming pool with an all-natural feel and its own little geyser. The Laugarvatn Fontana natural steam baths soothe away aches and pains, followed by relaxation in a series of mineral hot spring pools.
Overnight in the Golden Circle area.

• Breakfast
• Overnight in the Golden Circle area
• 103 miles

Approximate Distance:
250 km / 155 miles
Thundering waterfalls – Seabird colony – Black sand beaches
Drive along the spectacular south coast and view highlights along the way such as Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls and Mýrdalsjökull glacier. The glacier offers great opportunities for guided snowmobile or ice hiking tours.  If the skies are clear, you might even have a glimpse of beautiful Mt. Hekla, Iceland’s most frequently erupting volcano.
Head to Vík, Iceland’s southernmost village. In the area you can view the seabird cliff of Dyrhólaey* and the black sand beach of Reynisfjara.
Continue over Eldhraun, Iceland’s largest single lava flow, towards Kirkjubæjarklaustur, a picturesque village that is the former site of a 12th-century Catholic convent. The town is known for its excellent farm-raised arctic char trout, which you might like to try tonight.
*Please note that Dyrhóaey is closed during nesting season in spring, from around mid-May until June 23rd.
Overnight in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area.

• Breakfast
• Overnight in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area
• 155 miles

Approximate Distance:
Variable
Spectacular canyon – Crater area – Historic eruption site
Enjoy the day exploring this little-known area, part of the Katla UNESCO GeoPark.
We recommend a hike in magnificent Fjaðrargljúfur, one of the most spectacular canyons in Iceland. Please be respectful of the fragile nature in this beautiful nature reserve. Stay on the marked paths, both for your safety and to protect delicate vegetation.
If you are travelling in June, July or August, a longer detour to the volcanic Laki craters (Lakagígar) is a great option. You’ll need a strong 4WD drive car for this, category F or higher. The drive takes you over unpaved mountain tracks to the site of a catastrophic eruption from 1783-84 AD. The area includes unforgettable and beautiful sights such as Laki, the largest of the craters, which is 818 metres (2,684 feet) high and has a breathtaking view over the craters.
Overnight in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area.

• Breakfast
• Overnight in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area

Approximate Distance:
215 km / 134 miles
Glacier-rimmed oasis – Iceberg lagoon – Europe’s largest glacier
Today you will be in the southern area of Vatnajökull National Park, named after Europe’s largest glacier. You’ll certainly have this magnificent glacier in view through your day as you follow the route.
Visit the park’s amazing Skaftafell area, a green oasis nestled between glaciers. Skaftafell has an excellent selection of hiking trails to suit all experience levels. One of the best-known trails leads to the basalt lined Svartifoss waterfall (the Black Falls). The park’s visitor centre has up to date information on trails you can hike during your visit.
Continue to the shimmering icebergs of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where you can admire the views of the icebergs floating in the cool waters. You might even glimpse a few seals. Nearby is the Diamond Beach, an area of glittering bits of glass-like ice scattered across black sands.
Continue on, perhaps taking a detour to the beautiful and much photographed mountain of Vestrahorn. Head on to the harbour town of Höfn, also known as the “langoustine capital” of northern Europe. Several restaurants specialise in this delicious seafood treat.
Overnight in the Höfn area.

• Breakfast
• Overnight in the Höfn area
• 134 miles

Approximate Distance:
295 km / 183 miles
Narrow fjords – Steep mountains – Picturesque coastline
The scenery today will be stunning, so make sure your camera is charged and ready! Drive through the spectacular Eastfjords region with towering mountains and charming fishing villages. On the way, you might opt to visit the quirky egg sculptures in the harbour of charming Djúpivogur village or visit Petra’s famous local stone and mineral collection at Stöðvarfjörður. If you’re feeling thirsty for a local brew, we recommend a stop at the Beljandi microbrewery in Breiðdalsvík. The brewery was a community project, so you’ll definitely get a feel for local life here.
You can either drive straight to Egilsstaðir town or head along the Eastfjords, a region shaped by Ice Age glaciers. Although many fjords are uninhabited, each one has its own grandeur. The natural harbours in the fjords cradle fishing villages that have still clung to their Old-World charm. Some of the villages include Fáskrúðsfjörður with its interesting French connection, Reydarfjörður and its World War II heritage, and Eskifjörður with its interesting fishing heritage.
In the Egilsstaðir area, you can visit the beautiful Hallormsstaður forest, and a river reputed to be the home of a friendly monster. Perhaps you’ll end the day at Lake Urriðavatn’s Vök Baths, where you can unwind in untouched nature in distinctive floating geothermal pools.
Overnight in the Eastfjords.

• Breakfast
• Overnight in the Eastfjords
• 183 miles

Approximate Distance:
Variable
Artistic fjord village – Elfin folklore – Edge of the wilderness
Explore the quaint village of Seyðisfjörður, where multi-coloured wooden houses are sheltered by a jaw-dropping backdrop of snow-capped mountains and tumbling waterfalls. This community has been gaining an international reputation for its excellent focus on art and art education. We recommend taking an easy hike to an artistic installation where the wind makes a beautiful singing sound.
You can also explore Borgarfjörður Eystri, steeped in the folklore of elves. This area also has excellent hiking paths in the mountains and along the sea. The town of Bakkagerði is very charming and offers locally guided walking tours to discover the town’s historical buildings (including a turf house) and learn local history, folktales, and traditions.
Another suggestion is to spend a day or half a day at the award-winning Wilderness Center on the edge of the hauntingly beautiful eastern highlands. Here you can discover Iceland’s pioneer history and highland nature in a cleverly interactive way. Take a guided horseback tour to an abandoned farm. Join a locally guided hike into the majestic wilderness to view waterfalls along a glacier river, including a dip into a natural hot spring pool. Enjoy a meal at the centre’s historical farmhouse, where you can chat with the centre’s hosts in the kitchen as they prepare you a meal made from wilderness sourced ingredients.
Overnight in the Eastfjords.

• Breakfast
• Overnight in the Eastfjords

Approximate Distance:
280 km / 174 miles
Europe’s most powerful waterfall – Glacier-carved gorge – Whale watching
Today you will be in the northern area of Vatnajökull National Park. This region of the park has its own distinctive character. Less visited than the southern area, this area shows Iceland’s wild side to its fullest.
Travel across the vast Möðrudalsöræfi highlands and into the wilderness. The route takes you to the mighty Dettifoss waterfall. A few moments here listening to the heavy thundering water against a surreal landscape is one of Iceland’s most amazing experiences.
Head through the park and its amazing canyon areas carved by the Jökulsár river. Explore the impressive horse-shoe-shaped Ásbyrgi canyon, said to be formed by the god Óðinn’s stallion. Several walking trails lead to beautiful viewing areas.
Drive around the fossil rich Tjörnes Peninsula to Húsavík. This town is famous for whale watching, and you might enjoy a later afternoon or evening whale watching boat tour. A great way to end this exciting day is with a relaxing swim in the warm sea waters of Húsavík’s GeoSea Baths.
Overnight in the Húsavík or Lake Mývatn area.
Important: Please note Roads 864, 862 and therefore Road 85 are usually closed during the fall, winter, and spring until the end of May (Road opening dates are dependent on the weather conditions). Until these roads are open, please take the scenic Ring Road 1 to Road 87 and on to Húsavík.
Please also note that Roads 864 and 862 are gravel roads, and you must heed warning signs in the area if road conditions are not good for driving.

• Breakfast
• Overnight in the Húsavík or Lake Mývatn area
• 174 miles

Approximate Distance:
95 km / 59 miles
Volcanic wonderland – Adventure paradise – Surreal landscapes
Spend the day exploring the natural wonders of Lake Mývatn and the surrounding area. Visit highlights such as the lava citadels at Dimmuborgir, the pseudo craters at Skútustaðir, the colourful steaming slopes of Námaskarð, and the Hverfjall volcano crater.
If you want to add some activities, you can enjoy guided hiking or mountain bike tours or horseback riding around the lake.
During the day’s exploring, we recommend taking a relaxing dip in the Mývatn Nature Baths. The azure geothermal water is soothing to skin and joints, and the scenery is amazing.
Mývatn is known for its smoked arctic char served on sweet rye bread baked in natural steam ovens. Several restaurants in the area offer this specialty.
Overnight in the Lake Mývatn area.

• Breakfast
• Overnight in the Lake Mývatn area
• 59 miles

Approximate Distance:
80 km / 50 miles
Waterfall of the gods – Iceland’s northern “capital” – Culture and nature vibes
Depart Mývatn and drive westward, visiting beautiful Goðafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods.” Enjoy views of the falls from different angles on a walking trail in the area.
Head on to Akureyri, a colourful town set against the dramatic Eyjafjörður fjord. Spend the day exploring Akureyri and its surrounding area. This charming town is small in size but has a vibrant cultural scene. Wander through a street dedicated to art galleries. Visit museums and historical wooden homes. Take a walk through a beautiful botanical garden on the edge of the Arctic Circle.
If you enjoy outdoor recreation, Akureyri is great for whale watching, fishing, horseback riding or hiking in the trails around the fjord. There is even a Zipline course outside the town.
After a day of fun in the area, why not take a relaxing soak in the beautiful Forest Baths (Skógarböð)? These geothermal pools are in the Vaðlaheiði nature area, surrounded by small trees and the mountains of Eyjafjörður fjord.
Overnight stay in the Akureyri area.
Please Note: The Ring Road route today contains a toll tunnel. More information on the tunnel and fees is here.

• Breakfast
• Overnight stay in the Akureyri area
• 50 miles

Approximate Distance:
370 km / 231 miles
Fjord coastline – Herring boom town – Saga and horse heritage
Drive to Siglufjörður town along the Troll Peninsula, one of Iceland’s most beautiful coastlines. You’ll be treated to a unique view of steep mountains overlooking the North Atlantic. In the charming town of Siglufjörður, we suggest discovering the history of the town at the award-winning Herring-Era Maritime Museum. This museum takes you back into the early 20th century days that transformed a small fishing village temporarily into a boom town.
Thread around the peninsula and into Skagafjörður, a renowned area for horse breeding and medieval history.
If you are a history buff, we suggest a stop at Hólar. This cultural centre has buildings and religious artifacts covering nine centuries of Icelandic history. Another suggestion is the new 1238: Battle of Iceland virtual reality experience in Sauðárkrókur town, which puts you back into the 12th century to learn about one of Iceland’s most pivotal battles, which occurred in North Iceland.
The manor farm of Glaumbær is a turf home that dates back to the 18th century. Visiting here gives a sense of life in Iceland in the old days.
Skagafjörður also offers opportunities to enjoy horseback riding in beautiful landscapes.
Another interesting place to visit today is Borgarvirki, a natural rock formation that has been used as a citadel since Viking times. A trail takes you to the top where you can imagine what life must have been like for the people who lived here during times of war.
Drive along the beautiful coastline where the sea seems to meet the sky as you head to your evening accommodation.
Overnight stay in Northwest Iceland.

• Breakfast
• Overnight stay in Northwest Iceland
• 231 miles

Approximate Distance:
250 km / 155 miles
Icelandic wtchcraft – Isolated beauty – Spine of the Westfjords
Today you will head into the spectacular region of the Westfjords, the oldest part of Iceland. Drive along the low hills of Hrútafjörður Fjord towards jagged mountains that rise straight from the sea in the area of Hólmavík and Drangsnes. For centuries, this was one of the most isolated regions in Iceland. It is a still a region of remote and spectacular beauty.
Strandir is the “spine” of the Westfjords, a place of spiky fjords and majestic crags. You can discover tiny villages tucked away into the mountains, each with wonderful views of the area. In ancient times, Westfjord dwellers were reputed to have a special knowledge of magic. You can find out about these traditions at the Icelandic Museum of Sorcery and Witchcraft in Hólmavík town.
Overnight in the North Westfjords area.

• Breakfast
• Overnight in the North Westfjords area
• 155 miles

Approximate Distance:
225 km / 140 miles
Capital of the Westfjords – Rich birdlife – Island in harmony with nature
Wind along the numerous uninhabited fjords of Ísafjarðardjúp, a beautiful coastline alive with seals and birds. It’s an amazing experience to pause during the day and just take in the sounds of the birds and wind and the smells of the sea. The place has a timeless feel.
Head to Ísafjörður, the largest town in the area. Ísafjörður has some of the oldest buildings in the country, many beautifully restored. You might enjoy a guided walking tour through back streets with a focus on history and daily life. Another interesting activity is to take a ferry to the island community of Vigur, where locals practice the sustainable tradition of eider duck farming. Guided tours are available that include the ferry ride, a walk around the island and delicious refreshments made by a farm family who lives on the island.
If you enjoy activities, Ísafjörður offers amazing sea kayaking in the glassy fjord waters.
Overnight in the North Westfjords area.

• Breakfast
• Overnight in the North Westfjords area
• 140 miles

Approximate Distance:
variable
Friendly towns – Traditional fishing heritage – Hornstrandir nature reserve
Spend time in Isafjörður and the surrounding area, including the neighbouring towns of Bolungarvík and Suðureyri. Suðureyri offers a friendly and informative walking tour focused on the town‘s eco-friendly fishing. Along the route you can sample gourmet and traditional fish delicacies. Discover older fishing traditions at the Ósvör traditional fishing camp, a restored 19th-century area where locals fished at sea using simple wooden rowboats.
Hornstrandir Nature Reserve is another place we recommend, especially if you enjoy nature, wildlife, and hiking. It is remote and off limits to all motorised traffic, so you can only access Hornstrandir by boat. The island is also a good area to spot Arctic foxes, and there are eco-friendly locally guided day tours to view these beautiful creatures.
Like outdoor adventure? Mountain biking, hiking, whale watching, mountaineering – the Westfjords has it all. For calmer activities, there are several golf courses in the region, and sea kayaking is a peaceful way to spend the afternoon exploring the picturesque fjords and viewing the bird life.
Overnight in the North Westfjords area.

• Breakfast
• Overnight in the North Westfjords area

Approximate Distance:
295 km / 183 miles
Striking waterfall – Friendly villages – Sea cliffs with birdlife
Drive from Isafjörður through the beautiful northern part of the Westfjords. The town of Þingeyri is a nice place to stop, especially its Simbahöllin Café. The owners restored a beautiful old house for the café, sparking a community-wide renovation. (Also, the café has legendary Belgian waffles.) The café offers guided horseback riding tours and self-guided biking tours in the area.
The town of Bildudalur has a curious and entertaining Sea Monster Museum where you can discover local legends of mysterious ocean creatures.
Marvel at the stunning multi-tiered Dynjandi waterfall, one of the symbols of the region. As you walk to Dynjandi from the parking lot, you’ll actually pass by a series of six smaller waterfalls, each a scenic treasure in itself.
Visit Látrabjarg cliffs, the westernmost point in Europe. In the summer, these high sea cliffs teem with millions of puffins, gannets, guillemots, and razorbills. This is one of Iceland’s best areas for bird watching, as well as an amazing area to capture views of the sea cliffs. Remember to be careful while you are here since the cliff is very high. Do not approach the end of the cliff unless you are on all fours or sitting.
Overnight in the South Westfjords area.

• Breakfast
• Overnight in the South Westfjords area
• 183 miles

Approximate Distance:
variable
Red sands – Picturesque islands and coastline – Charming eco-village
Continue along the southern coast of the Westfjords. Rauðisandur is a gorgeous stretch of beach where you can see different colours of sand ranging from white to yellow to red to black. Definitely take your time here and enjoy the different moods of the sea and sands.
Depending on your schedule, maybe you’ll stop to take a dip in the Hellulaug natural geothermal pool in Vatnsfjörður fjord. This is a simple little natural pool with a lovely view over the ocean. There are no changing facilities. There is also no admission fee, but we encourage you to leave some money in the donation box since this is how the locals ensure the pool is regularly cleaned and safe to use.
Now, you have two options: you can either drive the coastal road to Stykkishólmur town or take the ferry across Breidafjörður to the town.
Driving: Drive along the coast of Barðarströnd and into West Iceland. You can explore Dalir, the region of Eric the Red and birthplace of his son, the great explorer Leifur Eiríksson, at a living replica museum before driving to Snæfellsnes peninsula. Approximate distance: 377 km / 234 miles
Ferry: Head to Brjánslaekur ferry dock. Sail with the ferry Baldur across Breiðafjörður bay with its countless islands and rich birdlife. (Please note the price of the ferry ride is not included in the package.) You’ll pass by the island of Flatey, a beloved summer holiday area for Icelanders. Enjoy the ride and the views of islands and birds. Approximate distance: 150 km / 93 miles (The ferry ride is about 2,5 hours.)
Please note: After 1. September, the ferry departs once per day and does not sail on Saturdays. Please see ferry schedule.
Your destination is the charming town of Stykkishólmur. This eco-friendly town has beautiful wooden buildings originally brought over from Norway in the 1800s. Stykkishólmur is a lovely place to take an evening walk, and you will surely enjoy the nice selection of cafes and restaurants available.
Overnight on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

• Breakfast
• Overnight on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Approximate Distance:
240 km / 150 miles
Magical glacier volcano – Sea cliffs with birdlife – Volcanic crater
Today you will explore the ever-changing beauty of Snæfellsnes peninsula and the Snæfellsjökull National Park.
Start with a drive around the northern Snæfellsnes peninsula, passing the small fishing villages of Grundarfjörður and Hellissandur. Keep an eye out for Kirkjufell, Iceland’s most photographed mountain. Make a stop at the rocky beach of Djúpalónssandur as well as the magnificent columnar basalt rock formations at Arnarstapi.
The crown jewel of the region is Snæfellsjökull, a glacier-topped volcano that is said to be the home of a benevolent troll spirit.
You can enjoy guided activities in the region such as glacier hiking on Snæfellsjökull, visiting Vatnshellir lava cave, whale watching near Ólafsvík, and sea kayaking in the vicinity of Kirkjufell.
Pass by Eldborg, a volcanic crater you can climb to get a beautiful view of the area. The roads then lead you into the Borgarfjörður region of West Iceland.
Overnight stay in the Borgarfjörður area.

• Breakfast
• Overnight stay in the Borgarfjörður area
• 150 miles

Approximate Distance:
225 km / 140 miles
Picturesque waterfalls – Europe’s most powerful hot spring – Iceland’s capital
Head through Borgarfjörður, one of Iceland’s local gems. It contains a charming mix of miniature forests, waterfalls, caves, and views of Langjökull Glacier. If you want to add some adventure to your day, a visit to the colourful Víðgelmir caverns or the unique Into the Glacier ice cave is an unforgettable experience. The charming Húsafell area has a mix of hiking trails that suit all skill levels, including a history-themed trail. A unique experience is a visit to the hidden Húsafell Canyon Baths. A local guide takes you on an easy hike into a beautiful highland canyon with stone-lined hot spring pools built in the old-fashioned way. You can relax in natural hot spring water and enjoy amazing and secluded views.
Visit Hraunfoss waterfall where the water seems to burst from lava formations into the cerulean blue river below. The nearby Barnafoss waterfalls have a mysterious secret to reveal. Be sure to stop at Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring, where you can buy sweet organic tomatoes grown using geothermal heat.
Near Deildartunguhver you can also enjoy the Krauma natural geothermal spa, which uses a blend of the hot spring’s water and glacier cold springs. The spa’s restaurant specialises in dishes made with ingredients from area farms and greenhouses. Continue via Hvalfjörður (the Whale Fjord) to Reykjavík.
Overnight stay in Reykjavík.

• Breakfast
• Overnight stay in Reykjavík
• 140 miles

Approximate Distance:
50 km / 30 miles
Drive back to Keflavík International Airport. We recommend departing from your hotel in Reykjavík no later than 3 hours before your flight departure. It takes approximately 1 hour to drive to the airport, and check-in will start 2 hours before your departure.
If you did not visit the Blue Lagoon on your way to the city on your first day but have some free time today, you might want to use the opportunity en route to the airport. For this detour, please be sure to allow for at least 2-2,5 hours extra so you’ll have ample time at the lagoon. Your rental car should be returned to the airport service area, which is located only 2 minutes from the airport building. A shuttle will then transport you to the departure hall.

• Breakfast
• 30 miles