This tour includes everything Iceland has to offer; you take on what Icelanders call Hringurinn or The Ring Road with such marvellous de-tours as the West-Fjords and the Snæfellsnes peninsula. The great advantage of following Road 1 around the island is that in a relatively short time you can see all of Iceland’s main attractions such as the glacier lagoon Jökulsárlón, national park Skaftafell, the ebony beach of Vík, the lava pillars and wildlife of Lake Mývatn, the great giants of Húsavík, historic Reykholt area, along with the indispensable detour “The Golden Circle” where you will find the famous Geysir, the rift valley in Þingvellir and the magnificent Gullfoss
Day 1: Reykjavik – The Big One
Arrival and a quick visit to Iceland’s capital. – The Big One
One of our friendly drivers will be at Keflavík airport ready to welcome you and take you to your accommodation in Reykjavík. Our capital is a great city to explore on foot; however, if you wish to take a bus tour of the greater Reykjavík area we can certainly arrange that for yours. You could also use the day to visit one of the cities excellent museums or have a scenic view of Reykjavík from the tower of churchHallgrímskirkja.
Accommodation: Guesthouse, apartment or hotel in Reykjavík
Day 2: The Golden Circle
Driving distance approx. 260 km / 158 mi.
A day packed with the most visited and celebrated landmarks of Iceland.
After an early delivery of your rental car, the route is set for ÞingvellirIceland’s first National Park. There you can take a walk through one of the most amazing rift valleys in the world which also used to hold the Icelandic parliament from 930 to 1798. With plenty of time on your hands snorkelling in the rift Silfra is recommended, this is one of the top scuba diving destinations of the world due to its amazing clarity and the fact that you are actually snorkelling between continents. The next destination is the mother of all hot springs Geysir. Although Geysir now most lies dormant you will not be disappointed for its neighbourStrokkur erupts approximately every 5 minutes. Thereafter a visit to Gullfoss waterfall will close The Golden Circle (on a sunny day take care to look for rainbows in the surrounding drizzle). Then you will head back towards the Hvolsvöllur area for accommodation.
Day 3: Waterfalls and Saga Trail
Driving distance approx. 220 km / 137 mi.
The history, glaciers and volcanic beaches of Southern Iceland
You head towards the Icelandic Saga Centre in Hvolsvöllur where you will experience the fascinating atmosphere of the Viking age and get to know the characters of the famous Saga Njála. The next stop will be to (and behind) the beautiful Seljalandsfoss followed by a visit to the minuscule village Skógar which is famous for its folk museum and another great waterfall, Skógarfoss. If you are feeling adventurous the local Visitor’s Centre offers various activity tours. After such breathtaking waterfalls, you will continue past Eyjafjallajökull towardsVík, Iceland’s southernmost village. You can look forward to seeing there one of the most extraordinary beaches in the world. Although swimming is not recommended (actually prohibited and dangerous) the view on the ebony volcanic beach of Vík is more than enough to satisfy any visitor. This scenic place which faces the Atlantic on one side and volcano Katla on the other is awe-inspiring and if you get a chance to talk to one of its friendly inhabitants be sure to ask them about the regular evacuation drills performed there and the folktales related to the majesticReynisdrangar and island Dyrhólaey. The following stop will be at glacier Mýrdalsjökull where you will have the opportunity to go on a guided glacial hike. From there you will drive over the black sands ofMýrdalssandur before reaching the last stop of the day at the majestic canyon Fjaðrarárgljúfur before reaching today’s accommodation in a hotel, hut or guesthouse in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area.
Day 4: Skaftafell / Southern Highlands
Driving distance approx. 220 km / 124 mi.
The Icelandic Alps with a twist.
Today you will head towards Skaftafell a part of Vatnajökull (the largest glacier in Europe) National Park. Skaftafell is a favourite hiking and camping ground for many Icelanders and is far known for its picturesque mountain landscape. A must-see in Skaftafell is the waterfall Svartifoss; however, there are many other options such as going to the roots of the glacier, to the scenic Sjónarnípa or a longer hike to Kristínartindar. Ask for a guided glacier-walking trip or try your skills on ice-climbing.
Day 5: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Driving distance approx. 190 km / 118 mi.
Sailing amongst icebergs.
The next stop after the Skaftafell is Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon which has severed as a shooting location for Hollywood blockbusters such as ‘Die Another Day’, ‘Tomb Raider’ and ‘Batman Begins’. A guided boat tour of the lake is recommended in order to get a better view of the icebergs and to learn a little bit more about the visible effects that global warming has had on the lagoon. Last stop of the day is the village of Höfn which is known for its lobster and the Glacial Exhibition; there you can stay in a hotel or guesthouse.
Day 6: The East fjords
Driving distance approx.258 km / 155 mi.
Tranquil fishing villages, monsters and energy in the Icelandic “Dreamland”.
Start exploring the exotic East-fjords. This beautiful and diverse drive will take you past the lovely fishing village of Djúpivogur and to the capital of East Iceland: Egilstaðir. Before reaching Egilsstaðir you will find the largest forest in Iceland Hallormstaðarskógur and the mythologicalLagafljót or if you are interested in hydrothermal energy a visit to the controversial Kárahnjúkar Plant will certainly prove to educate (there exists a documentary about the construction of the plant called Dreamland or Draumalandið which looks at the matter from the environmentalist’s perspective).
Day 7: Borgarfjörður Eystri and Lake Mývatn
Driving distance approx. 310 km / 196 mi.
Wild fauna and a touch of tundra.
Welcome to the northernmost of the East-Fjords. This is truly a hidden pearl of old Iceland where farming and fishing are still the driving forces of the community. By Bakkagerði you will find many great hiking tracks and there is a good chance of seeing reindeer hoards in the vicinity. In the summertime puffin watching is also highly recommended inBakkafjörður. Icelandic folk myths permeate the area as can be seen in place names such as Álfaborg and Dyrfjöll: “City of Elves” and “Portal Peaks”. The drive from the East-Fjords to Lake Mývatn from the Eastfjords is a spectacular one through the rough tundra landscape ofJökuldalur and Möðrudalsöræfi. Once in the Mývatn area, such attractions as the pass of Námaskarð, volcano Krafla, the mysticalDimmuborgir (Dark cities) lava fields and Dettifoss (the most powerful waterfall in Europe) await your arrival.
Day 8: Jökulsárglúfur National Park and the Great Giants of Húsavík
Driving distance approx. 200 km / 124 mi.
Yesterday surely was not enough for you to explore the surroundings of Mývatn so today can also be employed e.g. to examine pseudo craters, the extraordinary Jökulsárglúfur and its canyon Ásbyrgi, the rock formations Hljóðuklettar and the beautiful Rauðuhólar. However, if you are in the mood for some activity then fishing in Laxá (note “Salmon River”) would be an ideal activity. Still, if you want to see something more impressive than the gorgeous salmon of this prolific river the perfect next stop would be Húsavík, the whale capital of Iceland. A whale watching tour is recommended there; however, if you prefer to stay on dry landHúsavík boosts of an excellent whale museum or an interesting alternative the renowned Phallological Museum which contains specimens of all the mammals of Iceland (including humans and whales). Heading back to your accommodation in Mývatn a great end to the day would be a relaxing swim in the Mývatn Nature Baths (sometimes called the Green Lagoon as a contrast to its Southern counterpart).
Day 9: Akureyri and the Northwest
Driving distance approx. 200 km / 124 mi.
Northern city life and the Icelandic horse.
From Mývatn, the road lies to Iceland’s second largest urban areaAkureyri after a quick stop at the waterfalls of the gods; Goðafoss.Akureyri is a vibrant city with plenty of restaurants, museums and swimming pools as well as a spectacular view. From Akureyri you can continue towards Tröllaskagi (“Troll-peninsula”), where you could take a ferry to the charming island of Hrísey before continuing to the must-see historic village of Siglufjörður and its awards winning Herring Museum. Next stop will then be the valley of Skagafjörður which is known as “The Mecca of the Icelandic Horse”. The restored turf farmhouse/folk museum of Glaumbær is a local attraction and if you have time and are interested then there is no better place to go horse riding and getting to know the friendly local breed. Enjoy your accommodation in the Húnaflói area.
Day 10: Entering the West-Fjords
Driving distance approx. 250 km / 155 mi.
Witchcraft, landscape and ocean view relaxation
Now you will head to the rural West Fjords of Iceland. Along the way keep your eyes open for the supposedly “Countless Mounds” ofVatnsdalshólar, the characteristic church Þingeyrarkirkja, the rockHvítserkur and have a quick stop at Illugastaðir where you might be lucky enough to spot seals at play. Next, a visit to the Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft museum in Hólmavík is a fun variety to your day along with a relaxing dip in the ocean view hot pools of Drangsnes; this is a favourite place among locals and tourists alike. Get a good nights rest at your accommodation in the Hólmavík area.
Day 11: A Drive Through the Fjords
Driving distance approx. 240 km / 137 mi.
A dazzling drive in one of the most remote regions of Iceland
Today you will continue to explore the West-Fjords (or Vestfirðir). First, you will head towards Ísafjörður which is the largest town on the peninsula a centre of both culture and education. The drive there is spectacular and characterized by deep fjords guarded by soaring mountains, waterfalls and deep valleys. On the way there you pass by the town of Súðavík where a great tragedy occurred in 1995 when 14 of the small village’s inhabitants passed away due to an avalanche which covered a large part of the town. Today the people of Súðavík have reconstructed that part of the town elsewhere and the inhabited part is rented out in the summer to an ever-growing number of tourist who wants to experience life in an Icelandic small town and its specialities such as sea angling. Get some rest and a nice dinner in Ísafjörður.
Day 12: Ísafjörður and surroundings
A day full of activity in a pastoral and majestic landscape
There are plenty of sights to see in Ísafjörður; however, a must-see isNeðstikaupstaður the local folk museum which contains some of the oldest houses in Iceland. There is also a wonderful maritime museum in the nearby Bolungarvík and plenty of variety of guided tours around the nearby fjords. If you have got a 4WD vehicle then we recommend the scenic drive up the adjacent Bolafjall. We recommend the boat tour to the peaceful island Vigur, hiking in the Nature Reserve Hornstrandir or kayaking in Ísafjörður.
Day 13: Látrabjarg
Driving distance approx. 210 km / 130 mi.
Impressive fauna and an extraordinary view of the westernmost point of Europe
Your next destination is to the location of the Icelandic Saga of the outlaw Gísli Súrsson; Dýrafjörður. This is furthermore a top destination for horseback riding, and do not forget to visit the lovely botanical garden, Skrúður, which happens to be the oldest in Iceland. Then drive to Hrafnseyri where you will find a museum dedicated to the interesting history of Jón Sigurðsson; who is always called President Jón in spite of never having held the title, due to his status as Iceland’s hero of independence. The next destination is the incredibly beautiful 100 m high waterfall Dynjandi in Arnarfjörður before heading to Iceland’s westernmost point Látrabjarg, which is an impressive 14 km long and 440 m high cliff that serves as a home to bird species such as puffins, razorbills, guillemots and northern gannets. Continue towardsTálknafjörður for tonight’s accommodation.
Day 14: Breiðafjörður Bay and Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Driving distance approx. 170 km. / 130 mi.
Golden sand, islands and sea air
When driving through Barðastrandasýsla it is unthinkable not to stop and visit the crimson and golden beach Rauðisandur. You can pass by Saurbær church and then have a stroll on this beautiful beach or sit down for some Icelandic pastry at its cosy café. Next, you can head towards Bránslækur where you will board the ferry Baldur that will take you over the bay of Breiðafjörður. During the summer months, you can explore the largest of its islands which is called Flatey. Your accommodation for this evening will be in Stykkishólmur which is the largest settlement of the Snæfellsnes peninsula. Enjoy a scenic walk up to the town’s lighthouse and visit one of its museums.
Day 15: Snæfellsjökull National Park and the Green Globe Community
Driving distance approx. 298 km / 180 mi.
An enigmatic glacier, environmentalism, and rocky beaches.
Take on Snæfellsnes the home of the enigmatic Snæfellsjökull which has supposedly attracted aliens, universal forces and of course visitors to the centre of the Earth! The largest town on the peninsula is Stykkishólmur which is definitely worth a visit and if you stop there make sure to hike the short distance up to the village’s lighthouse. You can also take a boat ride from there to the island of Flatey which bustles which small-town life in the summer. Stykkishólmur along with the peninsula’s other communities have been the first in Iceland and Europe to obtain a Green Globe certification. The surroundings of Snæfellsnes have inspired its 4000 inhabitants to maintain a greener lifestyle, which is quite understandable giving the area’s diverse flora and fauna, lava fields and of course its magnificent volcano/glacier. There are also magnificent caves in the area for which a guided expedition can be organized. Furthermore, it has such beautiful attractions as the bay of Dritvík, the stony beach Djúpalónssandur, Lóndrangar and Arnarstapi cliffs as well as the interesting Visitor’s Centre at Hellnar. Head towards Borgarnes for a good night sleep in a guesthouse or hotel.
Day 16: The Saga Circle
Driving distance approx. 273 km / 168 mi.
Today take on the so-called “Saga Circle” which includes a visit the historic site of Reykholt where there is a medieval research institution named Snorrastofa after the Saga documenter Snorri Sturluson, the “Lava waterfalls” Hraunfossar and Barnafoss along with Deildartunguhver, which is the largest hot spring in Europe. Other sights along the way include e.g. the crater Grábrók and the Settlement Exhibition in the town Borgarnes. On your way back to Reykjavík you can either take a shortcut through the tunnel Hvalfjarðargöng or take the slightly longer but very beautiful road through Hvalfjörður. After a long and exciting day head for Reykjavík where you can stay in a hotel or guesthouse and perhaps have a late night swim.
Day 17: Departure
Thank you for your stay!
On the last day, we will provide transfer to Keflavik airport with FlyBus. If your flight is in the afternoon you can explore the city further, visit shopping mall Kringlan or what we would recommend would be to stop at the Blue Lagoon and get to know this unique place while treating yourself to some relaxing spa treatment after a week full of activities. Thank you for your stay and we look forward to seeing you again!
Different accommodation choices
There are 2 different types of accommodation we provide. Simple (private) and Comfort. These are aimed to fit most travellers needs. The reason for which we have 1 category without private facilities is that when travelling in Iceland you spend almost no time at the hotel. Our most common accommodation is Simple (private) but that gives you the privacy you want but still for a very reasonable price.
Comfort
The Comfort Class is for those who like to travel comfortably and with a touch of exclusivity whenever possible. The accommodation will always be at a respected hotel or guesthouse with a private room and private facilities. Breakfast included.
Simple Class
The Simple Class is for the traveller who would like a reasonable amount of privacy, but who also isn’t concerned with all the frills. This option is the ideal compromise between economy and luxury. Accommodation is provided in a hotel, guesthouse, or hostel in a private room without facilities. Breakfast is included.
Seasons
We divide the travel season into 3 different seasons. We are more flexible on the price in the low and shoulder season so please contact us for an offer if you are travelling in these 2 seasons.
The Summer season is from 1st of June-31st of August.If you are ordering outside that timeframe then contact us for a better price
Our rental cars
We offer wide variety of rental cars and can provide cars that are not listed below on request: If you are interested in driving in the highlands of Iceland the smallest car you can take is the Suzuki Jimny, That is also by far the most common car but you have to know that it only fits 2-3 persons since there is no space for luggage when four persons are travelling together.
Additional Equipment
-GPS navigation system (Free of charge)
-Mobile phone (Free of charge)
-Ipad with 3G internet (Free of charge)
Service Included
-Pickup from Keflavik Airport and transfer accommodation in Reykjavik
-Meeting with your travel consultant
-Map of Iceland
-24-hour service phone
-Free dropoff at keflavik airport at departure.
-Taxes and service fees
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