Around Iceland, hot springs & adventure

Today, you’ll explore the renowned Golden Circle, one of Iceland’s most popular routes. Start at Thingvellir National Park, where you can walk between the tectonic plates. Continue to the geothermal area of Geysir, where the Strokkur geyser erupts every 10 minutes, sending hot water high into the air. 

At Gullfoss, Iceland’s iconic golden waterfall, experience two distinct viewpoints: the upper platform offers a panoramic view, while the lower path lets you feel the roar of the cascading water up close. During summer, we recommend a short detour to Faxi, a smaller but picturesque waterfall just 15 minutes from Gullfoss. 

Plan for 5–6 hours to explore the Golden Circle. Then, head to Vík, where you’ll stay for the next two nights.

First of two overnights in the Vík area.

Today, explore the iconic sights along Iceland’s South Coast. Begin at Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall where you can walk behind the cascade for a unique perspective. Nearby, discover the hidden gem Gljúfrabúi, tucked behind a cliff and accessible via a short walk through a stream and narrow gorge.

Continue to Skógafoss, where a staircase leads to stunning views from above the falls. Visit Reynisfjara, the black sand beach known for its striking basalt columns. Next, enjoy the panoramic vistas from Dyrhólaey, where puffins nest during the summer months.

With a shorter driving distance today, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy each stop. For added adventure, consider a guided snowmobile tour on Mýrdalsjökull glacier or an ATV excursion to the plane wreck on the black sand beach. These activities are led by experienced guides for a safe and exciting experience.

After a day of exploring, unwind at your accommodation in Vík.

Second overnight in the Vík area.

Today’s route takes you east from Vík, crossing the black sand desert of Mýrdalssandur. You’ll pass through the Eldhraun lava field, formed during the Laki volcanic eruption of 1783 and now covered in vibrant green moss. 

Explore the canyon Fjaðrárgljúfur, where a hiking trail leads to viewpoints overlooking the dramatic gorge. In Skaftafell, part of Vatnajökull National Park, you can choose from several hiking trails. Don’t miss the path to Svartifoss, where black basalt columns frame the waterfall beautifully. 

The highlight of the day is Jökulsárlón, Iceland’s largest glacier lagoon. Icebergs in shades of white and blue drift towards the sea, with Vatnajökull as a stunning backdrop. From May to September, you can take a boat tour among the icebergs and even spot seals. The lagoon is especially picturesque in the late afternoon, making it a perfect spot for photography. End your day in the fishing village of Höfn, known for its fresh lobster and views of the Vatnajökull glacier. 

First of two overnights in the Höfn area.

Enjoy a flexible day in Höfn, tailored to your interests. Start with a visit to the Vatnajökull Visitor Centre by the harbour, where interactive exhibits provide fascinating insights into Europe’s largest glacier. 

In spring and summer, through to October, you can take a boat tour on Fjallsárlón. Glide in small groups among the icebergs as your guide shares the lagoon's history. During summer, join a tractor tour to Ingólfshöfdi, where you can see puffins up close in their natural habitat. 

Travelling in April or October? A guided glacier hike in Skaftafell, including a visit to a natural ice cave, is a perfect option. For a more relaxed day, take a walk in Ósland Nature Reserve with views of the glacier. Alternatively, visit Stokksnes, where the Atlantic Ocean meets black sand dunes and towering mountains.

End the day with a soak in Höfn’s geothermal pool, followed by dinner at one of the town’s famous lobster restaurants. Enjoy fresh local lobster with views over the harbour. 

Second of two overnights in the Höfn area.

Follow Route 1 north through the scenic fjord landscapes of East Iceland. Along the coastline, you’ll pass charming fishing villages like Djúpivogur, where slender rock formations, shaped by ancient lava flows, rise dramatically against the sky.

You can choose the scenic "fjord route" through villages such as Stöðvarfjörður, known for Petra’s Stone Collection, and Fáskrúðsfjörður, or take the shorter main road over the Breiðdalsheiði mountain pass. If you opt for the mountain route, you might end the day with an evening soak at Vök Baths, Iceland’s first floating geothermal pools.

You'll finish in Egilsstaðir, next to Lake Lagarfljót, which locals say has its own Loch Ness-style monster.

Overnight in Egilsstaðir.

Today’s drive takes you through the barren highlands, with landscapes that resemble the surface of the moon. Stop at Möðrudalur, a remote farm with a small café. Your next stop is Dettifoss, Iceland’s most powerful waterfall, where water plunges 44 metres with a loud roar.

From here, you can choose between two routes to Mývatn. The direct route is quicker, while a detour via the Tjörnes Peninsula offers extra stops. Visit Ásbyrgi, a horseshoe-shaped canyon linked to the legend of Odin’s horse Sleipnir, and Húsavík, known for whale watching. In Húsavík, you might spot humpback whales and dolphins in the bay.

No matter which route you take, the day ends at Lake Mývatn, where you will stay for two nights.

First of two overnights in the Mývatn area.

Spend the day discovering Mývatn’s unique volcanic landscapes. Begin at Dimmuborgir, a natural maze of lava formations where trolls and elves are said to live. Continue to Námaskarð, where bubbling mud pools and steaming vents reveal the earth’s inner forces. At Skútustaðir, you can stroll among volcanic craters, while Krafla offers a trail leading to the active lava field at Leirhnjúkur. Don’t miss Grjótagjá, a cave with clear blue water, famously featured in Game of Thrones (no swimming allowed).

If time allows, take a detour back to Húsavík for a visit to the GeoSea geothermal sea baths. Relax in infinity pools filled with mineral-rich seawater while enjoying panoramic views of the ocean and mountains. If you’re lucky, you might spot a whale in the distance.

Second night in the Mývatn area.

Leave the volcanic landscapes of Mývatn behind and head west. First stop is Goðafoss, the "Waterfall of the Gods," where water crashes into a horseshoe-shaped canyon. According to legend, the chieftain Þorgeir threw his Norse god statues into the falls in the year 999 when Iceland converted to Christianity.

In Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest city, there’s plenty to do. Go on a whale-watching tour for a chance to see humpback whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. Or, if you’d prefer to relax, visit the Forest Lagoon – a spa set among birch and pine trees with infinity pools overlooking the fjord.

Take a stroll around the town’s charming centre, explore the pedestrian street Hafnarstræti, or wander through the botanical gardens. Round off your day with ice cream from Brynja, a café that’s a local favourite and an Akureyri classic.

Overnight in Akureyri.

Follow the coastal road along the Tröllaskagi Peninsula, also called the "Troll Peninsula." The route takes you through tunnels and along steep cliffs to the fishing village of Siglufjörður. Here, you can visit the award-winning Herring Museum, which tells the story of how the herring boom of the 20th century shaped Iceland’s history.

In Skagafjörður, known for Icelandic horse breeding, you’ll find several historical sites. Visit the medieval church at Hólar, where Iceland’s first printing press was established. Stop at Glaumbær, a well-preserved turf farmhouse, and continue to Hofsós to learn about emigration to North America. Take a break at Hofsós’ infinity pool, which offers beautiful views of the fjord.

As you head south towards Borgarfjörður, enjoy a few natural highlights. See Hvítserkur, a rock formation said to be a petrified troll. Visit the seal colonies near Hvammstangi, or take a short walk to the top of Grábrók crater for views over the lava fields.

First of two nights in the Borgarfjörður area.

Today, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called "Iceland in Miniature," awaits. In Stykkishólmur, a short walk to the Súgandisey viewpoint offers beautiful views over the islands of Breiðafjörður. At Bjarnarhöfn, you can try hákarl, fermented shark, and learn about this traditional Icelandic delicacy. 

As you travel along the peninsula, you’ll pass the charming villages of Grundarfjörður and Ólafsvík. Stop at Kirkjufell, Iceland’s most photographed mountain, to admire its iconic shape. At the black pebble beach Djúpalónssandur, test your strength with the old lifting stones once used by fishermen. In Arnarstapi, a walking trail along basalt cliffs reveals dramatic views, while the black wooden church at Búðir creates a stark contrast to the open heathland. 

For those with energy left, a short hike up Eldborg crater offers a great way to end the day before returning to Borgarfjörður. 

Second overnight in the Borgarfjörður area.

Start your day in Borgarnes at The Settlement Center, where interactive exhibitions bring the Viking Age to life. It’s a fascinating way to learn about Iceland’s first settlers and their stories. From there, head to Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring, where 180 litres of hot water bubble up every second.

If you’re into history and culture, a visit to Reykholt is a must. This is where Snorri Sturluson wrote the famous Icelandic sagas. Close by, Hraunfossar offers a stunning sight with countless streams pouring from a lava field, spreading across nearly a kilometre.

To wind down, why not take a soak in the Húsafell Canyon Baths or Krauma Spa? Both are perfect for relaxing, with Krauma blending geothermal and glacial water for just the right temperature. If you’ve got time, the longer route via Hvalfjörður treats you to lovely views of the fjord before you reach Reykjavík.

Overnight in Reykjavík.

If you haven’t visited the Blue Lagoon earlier in your trip, this is a great opportunity to do so. Plan for around three hours to enjoy the experience. The drive from Reykjavík to Keflavík Airport takes about 45 minutes. Be sure to allow plenty of time to return your rental car and check in for your flight.