Iceland Grand Discovery

Once you have landed at Keflavik Airport, please pick up your luggage and head through customs. Collect your rental car at the airport and proceed to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time in Iceland, we suggest that you take some time to explore the Reykjanes Peninsula (a UNESCO GeoPark site) before you head to Reykjavik.

Reykjanes is a great introduction to Iceland’s unique geology and volcanoes. You’ll see unusual and stunning craters, lava cliffs, fissures and the Mid-Atlantic ridge itself. You can even walk on a bridge that divides Europe and North America. We also recommend a stroll in the surreal Gunnuhver area where you can view quirky colorful mud pools and steam vents bubbling away. If you are a Viking history buff, we recommend the Viking World museum, famous for the Íslendingur, a Viking ship replica that sailed between Iceland and North America in 2000.

Several charming fishing villages and lighthouses dot the peninsula, and the area has a reputation for tasty seafood fresh from the ocean. Reykjanes is home to the renowned Blue Lagoon, and you might enjoy the chance to relax in the soothing azure waters. Important: admission to the Blue Lagoon needs to be booked in advance. We can help you with that.

Drive along mystical lava landscapes of the South Coast road to the charming village of Hveragerdi for your overnight. The road takes you past rocky beaches with thundering waves. Hveragerdi is perfect for getting to know typical small-town Icelandic culture, but with a unique twist. Hveragerdi is one of the few sites in the world located directly on top of a geothermal area and, because of its many greenhouses heated by hot water from nearby springs, it is often called the “flower village.”

Overnight in the Hveragerdi area.

Please note check-in for most hotels begins at 14:00 – 16:00 (2:00pm-4:00pm).

Approximate distance: 100 km / 62 miles

National Park with Geological Wonders (UNESCO) – Exploding Geysers – Massive Waterfall

Breakfast at your accommodation. Visit the Golden Circle natural wonders. Drive to Thingvellir National Park, the site of Iceland’s ancient parliament and a real gem 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 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 steam baths are a local favorite; natural steam soothes away aches and pains, followed by relaxation in a series of hot spring pools.

Overnight in Golden Circle area.

Approximate distance: 165 km / 103 miles

Hekla Volcano – Thundering Waterfalls – Seabird Colony – Black Sand Beaches – Lava Fields

Breakfast at your accommodation. Drive along the spectacular south coast and view highlights along the way such as Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls and Myrdalsjokull glacier. If the skies are clear, you might even have a glimpse of beautiful Mt. Hekla, Iceland’s most frequently erupting volcano. The glacier offers great opportunities for guided snowmobile or ice hiking tours.

Head to Vik, Iceland’s southernmost village. In the area you can view the seabird cliff of Dyrholaey* and the black sand beach of Reynisfjara.

Continue over Eldhraun, Iceland’s largest single lava flow, towards Kirkjubaejarklaustur, 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 Dyrholaey is closed during nesting season in spring, from around mid-May until June 23rd.

Overnight in the Kirkjubaejarklaustur area.

Approximate distance: 250 km / 155 miles

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 Fjadrargljufur, 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 traveling in June, July or August, a longer detour to the volcanic Laki craters (Lakagigar) is a great option. You’ll need a strong 4WD drive car for this, category 5.0 or higher. The drive takes you over unpaved mountain tracks to the site of a catastrophic eruption in 1783-84. The area includes unforgettable and beautiful sights such as Laki, the largest of the craters, which is 818 meters (2.684 feet) high and has a breathtaking view over the craters.

You can also take locally guided hiking or biking day tours from Kirkjubæjarklustur. This is an amazing area to experience close up to nature!

Overnight in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area.

Approximate distance: variable

Glacier-Rimmed Oasis – Glacial Lagoon with Icebergs – Europe’s Largest Glacier

Breakfast at your accommodation. Today you will be in the southern area of Vatnajokull 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 center has up to date information on trails you can hike during your visit.

Continue to the shimmering icebergs of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, where you should definitely give yourself time to 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 harbor town of Hofn, also known as the “lobster capital” of northern Europe. Several restaurants specialize in this delicious seafood treat.

Overnight in the Hofn area.

Approximate distance: 215 km / 134 miles

Narrow Fjords – Steep Mountains – Picturesque Coastline

Breakfast at your accommodation. 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 harbor of charming Djupivogur village or visit Petra’s famous local stone and mineral collection at Stodvarfjordur. If you’re feeling thirsty for a local brew, we recommend a stop at the Beljandi microbrewery in Breiddalsvik. The brewery was a community project, so you’ll definitely get a feel for local life in the Eastfjords if you stop here.

You can either drive straight through Fagridalur (the Beautiful Valley) to Egilsstadir town or head along the Eastfjords, one of the oldest regions in Iceland, shaped by glaciers during the Ice Age. Although many are uninhabited, each fjord has its own grandeur. The natural harbors in the fjords cradle fishing villages that have still hung on a bit of Old-World charm. Some of the unique villages include Faskrudsfjordur with its interesting French connection, Reydarfjordur and its World War II heritage, and Eskifjordur with its historical fishing heritage.

In the Egilsstadir area, you can visit the beautiful Hallormsstadur forest and a river reputed to be the home of a friendly sea monster. Perhaps you’ll end the day at Lake Urridavatn’s Vok Baths, where you can unwind in untouched nature in distinctive floating geothermal pools.

Overnight in the Eastfjords.

Approximate distance: 295 km / 183 miles

Artistic Fjord Villages – Elfin Folklore – Life on the Edge of the Wilderness

Breakfast at your accommodation. Explore the quaint village of Seydisfjordur, where multi-colored 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. You can take an easy hike to an artistic installation where the wind makes a beautiful singing sound.

Also explore Borgarfjordur Eystri, steeped in the folklore of elves. This area also has excellent hiking paths in the mountains and along the sea. The town of Bakkagerdi 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 clever 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. Relax at the cozy Wilderness Spa. Enjoy a meal at the center’s historical farmhouse, where you can chat with the center’s hosts in the kitchen as they prepare you a meal made from wilderness sourced ingredients.

Overnight in the Eastfjords.

Approximate distance: variable

Europe’s Most Powerful Waterfall – Glacier-Carved Gorge – Whale Watching

Breakfast at your accommodation. Today you will be in the northern area of Vatnajokull National Park, which covers 14% of Iceland’s landscape. 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 Modrudalsoraefi 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 Jokulsar river. Explore the impressive horse-shoe-shaped Asbyrgi canyon, said to be formed by the god Odin’s stallion. Several walking trails lead to beautiful viewing areas. You can enjoy hiking here and even guided horseback riding tours in the summer.

Drive around the fossil rich Tjornes Peninsula to the Husavik area. This town is famous for whale watching, and you might enjoy a later afternoon or evening whale watching boat tour. You might even try a walking tour taking you to filming locations for the 2020 Netflix film Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga, which takes place in Husavik. A great way to end this exciting day is with a relaxing swim in the warm sea waters of Husavik’s GeoSea Baths.

Overnight in the Husavik or Lake Myvatn 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 Husavik.

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.

Approximate distance: 280 km / 174 miles

Volcanic Wonderland – Birdwatching and Adventure Paradise – Surreal Landscapes

Breakfast at your accommodation. Spend the day exploring the natural wonders of Lake Myvatn and the surrounding area. Visit highlights such as the lava citadels at Dimmuborgir, the pseudo craters at Skutustadir, the colorful sulphurous slopes of Namaskard and the Hverfjall volcano crater.

If you want to add some activities, you can enjoy guided bike tours or horseback riding around the lake (or rent a bike to pedal around the area yourself). Another unusual option is a summer dogsledding tour using a special dry land cart. The tour also includes a visit to the kennel to meet the friendly huskies.

During the day’s exploring, we recommend taking a relaxing dip in the Myvatn Nature Baths. The azure blue geothermal water is soothing to skin and joints, and the scenery is amazing.

Myvatn is known for its smoked arctic char served on sweet rye bread baked in natural steam ovens. The Vogafjos restaurant is one of our favorite places to stop and enjoy lunch or dinner. Located on a dairy farm, the restaurant serves dairy produce from its own cows, along with smoked fish, lamb and other delicacies.

Overnight in the Lake Myvatn area.

Approximate distance: 95 km / 59 miles

Waterfall of the Gods – Iceland´s “Capital of the North” – North Iceland Vibes

Breakfast at your accommodation. Depart Myvatn and drive westward, visiting beautiful Godafoss, 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 colorful town set against the dramatic Eyjafjordur 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. Swim in the magnificent geothermal pool. Take a walk through a beautiful botanical garden on the edge of the Arctic Circle. A favorite with our travelers is the guided food walk, a chance to learn about Akureyri and try local treats.

If you enjoy outdoor recreation, Akureyri is great for whale watching, fishing, horseback riding or hiking in the trails around the 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.

Approximate distance: 80 km / 50 miles

Beautiful Fjord Coastline – Herring Boom Town – Saga and Horse Heritage

Breakfast at your accommodation. Drive to Siglufjordur 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 Siglufjordur 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, heading from Eyjafjordur in to Skagafjordur, a renowned area for horse breeding and medieval history.

If you are a history buff, we suggest a stop at Holar. This cultural center has buildings and religious artifacts covering nine centuries of Icelandic history. Another suggestion is the new 1238: Battle of Iceland virtual reality experience in Saudarkrokur town, which puts you back into the 12^th century to learn about one of Iceland’s most pivotal battles, which occurred close to here.

The manor farm of Glaumbaer is a turf home that dates back to the 18^th century. Visiting here gives a sense of life in Iceland in the old days. Glaumbaer was an inspiration for Hannah Kent’s famous novel Burial Rites, now in production as a movie.

Near Varmahlid town, you can visit Lytingsstadur family horse farm. Meet Icelandic horses, see the replica of a turf stable and learn about why horses are important to Icelandic history. You can also arrange guided riding tours here.

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 in here during times of war. Head along beautiful coastline where the sea seems to meet the sky as you drive to your evening accommodation.

Overnight stay in Northwest Iceland.

Approximate distance: 370 km / 231 miles

Icelandic Witchcraft Museum – Isolated Beauty – Spine of the Westfjords

Breakfast at your accommodation. Today you will head into the spectacular region of the Westfjords, the oldest part of Iceland. Drive along the low hills of Hrutafjordur Fjord towards jagged mountains that rise straight from the sea in the area of Holmavik and Drangsnes. For centuries, this was one of the most isolated regions in Iceland. It is a region of remote and spectacular beauty. Here you can enjoy the peace and solitude that is rare in so many places.

Strandir is literally 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 a special history and wonderful views of the area. In ancient times, the inhabitants were reputed to have knowledge of magic. You can find out about these traditions at the Icelandic Museum of Sorcery and Witchcraft in Holmavik town.

Overnight in the North Westfjords area.

Approximate distance: 250 km / 155 miles

Capital of the Westfjords – Rich Birdlife – Island in Harmony with Nature

Thread your away along the numerous uninhabited fjords of Isafjardardjup, a beautiful coastline alive with seals and birds. Take your time with the drive and enjoy the amazing views. 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 real timeless feel to it.

Head to Isafjordur, the largest town in the area. This town 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 Vigor, where locals practice the sustainable tradition of eider duck farming. This is also the only place in Iceland with a traditional windmill. 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, Isafjordur is well known for its sea kayaking in the glassy fjord waters.

Overnight in the North Westfjords area.

Approximate distance: 225 km / 140 miles

Friendly Towns – Traditional and Modern Fishing Heritage – Hornstrandir Nature Reserve

Spend time in Isafjordur and the surrounding area, including the neighboring towns of Bolungarvik and Sudureyri. Sudureyri 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 Osvor 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 motorized traffic, so you can only access this pure and wild nature by boat. This 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, paragliding, 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.

Approximate distance: variable

Small Picturesque Villages – Striking Waterfall – Red Sand Beaches – Sea Cliffs with Birdlife

Breakfast at your accommodation. Drive from Isafjordur through the beautiful northern part of the Westfjords. This is an area whose population has been declining, but the people who live here feel a powerful connection to the area and its peaceful way of life. The town of Thingeyri is a nice place to stop, especially its Simbahollin Café. The owners restored a beautiful old house for the café, sparking a community-wide renovation. The village is charming, and the café has legendary Belgian waffles. The café also offers guided horseback riding 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.

Visit 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 walk by a series of six smaller waterfalls, each a scenic treasure in itself.

Visit Latrabjarg 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.

Approximate distance: 295 km / 183 miles

Red Sands – Picturesque Islands and Coastline – Charming EcoVillage

Breakfast at your accommodation. Continue along the southern coast of the Westfjords. Raudasandur is a gorgeous stretch of beach where you can see different colors 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 Vatnsfjordur fjord. This is a simple little natural pool with a lovely view over the ocean. There are no changing facilities. There is 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 Stykkisholmur town or take the ferry across Breidafjordur to the town.

Driving: Drive along the coast of Bardarstrond and into West Iceland. You can explore Dalir, the region of Eric the Red and birthplace of his son, the great explorer Leif Eiriksson at a living replica museum before driving to Snaefellsnes peninsula. Approximate distance: 377 km / 234 miles

Ferry: Head to Brjanslaekur ferry dock. Sail with the ferry Baldur across Breidafjordur 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 Sept. 1. the ferry Baldur departs once per day and does not sail on Saturdays. If you are planning this trip in late August or September, please make sure Day 16 is not on a Saturday.

From Brjanslaekur: 18:00 (6:00pm)*

From Stykkisholmur: 15:00 (3:00pm)*

*This schedule is subject to change

Your destination today is the charming town of Stykkisholmur. This eco-friendly town has beautiful wooden buildings originally brought over from Norway in the 1800s. Stykkisholmur 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 Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

Approximate distance: variable

Magical Glacier Volcano – Sea Cliffs with Birdlife – Volcanic Crater

Breakfast at your accommodation. Today you will explore the ever-changing beauty of Snaefellsnes peninsula and the Snaefellsjokull National Park.

Start with a drive around the northern Snaefellsnes peninsula, passing the small fishing villages of Grundarfjordur and Hellissandur. Keep an eye out for Kirkjufell, Iceland’s most photographed mountain. Make a stop at the rocky beach of Djupalonssandur as well as the magnificent columnar basalt rock formations at Arnarstapi.

The crown jewel of the region is Snaefellsjokull, 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 Snaefellsjokull, visiting Vatnshellir lava cave, whale watching near Olafsvik, 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 Borgarfjordur region of West Iceland.

Overnight stay in the Borgarfjordur area.

Approximate distance: 240 km / 150 miles

Picturesque Waterfalls – Europe’s Most Powerful Hot Spring – Iceland’s Capital

Breakfast at your accommodation. Head through Borgarfjordur, one of Iceland’s best kept secrets. This is a beloved vacation spot for Icelanders from Reykjavik. It contains a charming mix of miniature forests, waterfalls, caves and views of Langjokull Glacier. If you want to add some adventure to your day, a visit to the colorful Vidgelmir caverns or the unique Into the Glacier ice cave is an unforgettable experience. The charming Husafell area has a mix of hiking trails that suit all skill levels, including a history-themed trail. Scattered around Husafell are rock paintings created by a local artist. A unique experience is a visit to the hidden Husafell 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. We can book you on one of the guided tour departures; just let us know at booking time.

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 specializes in dishes made with ingredients from area farms and greenhouses. Continue via Hvalfjordur (the Whale Fjord) to Reykjavik.

Overnight stay in Reykjavik.

Approximate distance: 225 km / 140 miles

Breakfast at your hotel. Drive back to Keflavik International Airport.** We recommend departing your hotel in Reykjavik no later than at least 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.

**Please note that the package price is based on 18 x24 hour rental days starting at the time of rental. If your flight arrives early on day 1 and departs late on day 19 an additional supplement will be necessary unless you choose to return the car in Reykjavik when the 18-day rental is up and use our Airport Direct departure transfer.

Approximate distance: 50 km / 30 miles