Travel Detail

Approximate Distance: 395 km / 245 miles

Famous National Park - Lively Geysers - Scenic Waterfalls

Enjoy a day visiting the natural wonders of the Golden Circle region. Visit Thingvellir National Park, site of the ancient Icelandic Viking parliament and a jewel of nature. Here you can see the meeting point between the North American and Europe continents. Several walking trails and hiking trails take visitors to historical points of interest.

Gullfoss is considered by many visitors to be Iceland’s most beautiful waterfall. Geysir is an active geothermal field with many bubbling steam vents and spouting hot springs, including the famous Strokkur geyser.

Drive along the south shore, viewing Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss, two amazing waterfalls that each have a special charm.

Next, visit the black sand beaches around Vík and the area’s Myrdalsjokull glacier. Depending on your schedule, you might enjoy a snowmobiling or ATV tour. In the area is also Dyrholaey*, a former island known for its excellent birdwatching, including puffins (puffins generally seen in Iceland between mid-May and early August).

*Please note that Dyrholaey is closed during nesting season, from about the middle of May until late June.

Overnight in the Vík area.

Discover the land of fire and ice in unforgettable fashion at Hotel Vik i Myrdal! Tucked within the captivating village of Vik in South Iceland's verdant Myrdalur Valley, the hotel places the best of the region at your fingertips - from the world-renowned volcanic beaches of Reynisfjara to recreational activities including birdwatching, glacier hiking and trekking through the two-million-year-old Fjadrargljufur canyon. Designed with an eye for detail, the Vik hotel offers 78 tastefully furnished rooms with modern amenities including complimentary Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. You can also choose to stay in one of their five quaint cottages or 15 self-catering apartments, depending on what best suits your needs.

Approximate Distance: 285 km / 177 miles

Start the day with a drive through Eldhraun, the strange-looking lava field created by one of Iceland’s
most devastating volcanic eruptions.

Drive through the village of Kirkjubaejarklaustur, site of a medieval convent. Continue across black sand plains created by glacial activity. Explore Skaftafell, a green oasis nestled below the great Vatnajokull glacier. Skaftafell is part of Vatnajokull National Park, the largest of its type in Western Europe. Stop at the incredible Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon, a filming location for many Hollywood blockbusters. Also in the area is the Diamond Beach, a popular spot for photographers. Then head onwards to the charming harbour town of Hofn, also known as the lobster capital of northern Europe. Several restaurants feature these delicious langoustines in their menu.

Overnight in the Hofn area.

The hotel, which used to be a public school, is well positioned by road 1. It is only 8 km from Hofn Hornafirdi and 453 km from Reykjavik. The surroundings are mounded by Europe's largest glacier, Vatnajokull. The spectacular natural scenery of sites such as Skaftafell, Jokulsarlon, Skalafellsjokull, Geitafell and Lonsoraefi is within reach from the hotel. The hotel consists of 23 rooms with bathroom and 17 rooms with washbasin. Sleeping bag accommodation in 6 rooms with washbasins is available in the basement. The restaurant offers a breakfast buffet and dinner. The lounge is equipped with a television and free access to a wireless internet connection.

Approximate Distance: 265 km / 165 miles

Narrow Fjords - Steep Mountains - Picturesque Coastline

Drive along the rugged coastline of the ancient Eastfjords, shaped by glaciers during the Ice Age. Each fjord has its own grandeur. The natural harbours in the fjords hold fishing villages that have clung to their historical charm.

If you enjoy curious art installations, make a stop in Djupivogur to view the intriguing seabird egg sculptures in the harbour. If you want to discover more about the area’s ancient geology and local life, we recommend a visit to Petra’s Stone Collection in Stodvarfjordur (summer months). If you’re feeling thirsty for a local brew, we recommend a stop at the Beljandi microbrewery in Breiddalsvík. The brewery was a community project, so you’ll get a feel for local life in the Eastfjords if you stop here. (Note: Beljandi Brewery is only open June - August).

Depending on your schedule, you might enjoy the opportunity to relax in the floating pools of a genuine hot spring lake at the Vok geothermal area near Egilsstadir town.

Overnight in the Eastfjords area.

Located in the village of Egilsstadir, next to the Lagarfljot River, Hotel Edda offers a river-view restaurant and free internet access in public areas. Egilsstadir, the "capital of the east" boasts its own international airport and is host to many local attractions. Among them are Hallormsstadur, Iceland's biggest forest and the extinct Mount Snaefell Volcano.

Approximate Distance: 315 km / 196 miles

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

Today you will be in the northern area of Vatnajokull 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 Modrudalsoraefi highlands and into the wilderness, passing the historical farm of the same name. 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 Odinn’s stallion. Several walking trails lead to beautiful viewing areas.

Drive around the fossil rich Tjornes Peninsula to the Husavik area. Husavik is known as the whale watching capital of Iceland, and we recommend taking a whale watching tour if time permits. Most recently Husavik became well-known as a filming location in the 2020 Netflix film Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga.

There is now even a Eurovision Museum in the town! A great way to end your exciting day is with a relaxing swim in the warm sea waters of Husavik’s GeoSea Baths. After your Husavik visit, head to the Lake Myvatn area.

* Visiting Dettifoss is not possible between October and mid-May

Important: Please note Roads 864, 862 are closed in the winter and usually open in late May. Until these roads are open, please take the scenic Ring Road 1 to Road 87 and on to Husavik. Please also note that these are gravel roads, and you must heed warning signs in the area if road conditions are not good for driving.

Overnight in the Lake Myvatn area.

Nestled in the enchanting coastal town of Husavik, Iceland - Hotel Raudaskrida offers a serene retreat amidst breathtaking natural beauty. Overlooking the North Atlantic Ocean, this charming hotel provides an ideal base for exploring the wonders of the region, including the renowned whale watching tours Husavik is famous for. Guests are welcomed with cozy accommodations featuring modern amenities and Icelandic touches, ensuring a comfortable stay. Relax in the hotel's inviting ambiance after a day of adventure, savoring locally-inspired cuisine at the on-site restaurant. Whether marveling at the midnight sun or the dance of the Northern Lights, Hotel Raudaskrida promises an unforgettable Icelandic getaway.

Approximate Distance: 165 km / 103 miles

Bizarre Lava Formations - Volcanic Wonderland - Waterfall of the Gods

Explore the highlights of the Lake Myvatn area, including the mystical volcanic formations at Dimmuborgir, the pseudo craters at Skutustadir, the colourful sulphurous slopes of Namaskard, and the Hverfjall volcanic crater. Perhaps you might relax with a visit to the azure blue Myvatn Nature Baths, where you can enjoy the soothing waters and the natural steam baths and sauna.

Drive on to Godafoss, a lovely half circle-shaped waterfall with a connection to Icelandic Vikings. Continue on to Akureyri, the charming “capital” of North Iceland.

You can add some more hot spring to your trip with an optional visit to the Skogarbod (Forest Baths) near Akureyri. This new hot spring pool is situated in a small forest with pretty views of flat-topped mountains and Eyjafjordur fjord.

Overnight in the Akureyri area or Northwest Iceland.

Please Note: The Ring Road route today contains a toll tunnel. More information on the tunnel and fees in the website (https://www.veggjald.is/en)

Located in Akureyri, this hotel offers fresh rooms with a TV and seating area. Facilities include a restaurant and a lounge bar. Hlidarfjall Ski Resort is 5 km away. The ground-floor restaurant offers breakfast and lunch, while dinner dishes mix Icelandic and Mediterranean influences. The Lounge Bar features a fireplace, drinks and daily afternoon tea. During winter, Icelandair Akureyri's guests can make use of the heated ski storage room. The hotel offers a 24-hour reception.

Approximate Distance: 490 km / 305 miles

Scenic Farmlands - Glacial Rivers - Charming Fjord

Drive through the historical region of Skagafjordur, renowned for horse breeding. You might visit the old farmstead at Glaumbaer a great example of traditional Icelandic turf house architecture. A museum exhibit inside shows how Icelanders lived for centuries in houses like this.

Then head across Holtavorduheidi plateau, entering the Borgarfjordur area. Visit the beautiful Hraunfossar lava falls and Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot springs. Near Deildartunguhver is Krauma, the intriguing “fire and ice” geothermal spa that uses water from the springs.

Drive to Reykjavík, heading through a scenic fjord known as Hvalfjordur (the Whale Fjord).

Overnight in Reykjavík.

Alternative Route for Today: If you are travelling between mid-June and early September and have a 4WD vehicle, you can travel across the barren wasteland on the Kjolur highland road to the geothermal wilderness oasis at Hveravellir before driving to Reykjavík. This historical route heads through a landscape of black sands, high mountains, and two magnificent glaciers. (If you take the Kjolur option, the alternative distance would be 410 km, or 255 miles, and about 6 hours.)

Important information about Kjolur - Please note that a 4WD vehicle is needed for this unpaved mountain track - Car Category 5.0 or higher. The Kjolur track is generally open mid-June through mid-September, openings subject to weather and road conditions.

This design hotel is located 1km from Laugardalur Family Park. A buffet breakfast is served each morning in the dining room. Drinks can be enjoyed in the lounge bar, featuring décor inspired by the changing lights of Iceland. Local buses stop 100 meters from Reykjavik Lights Hotel. Kringlan Shopping Centre is 2km away.

Approximate Distance: 50 km / 30 miles

Drive back to Keflavik International Airport. We recommend departing your hotel in Reykjavík 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 earlier 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.