Ultimate Iceland Ring Road & Remote Self-Drive Adventure - 17 Days

Today you'll discover a culturally and historically rich area as you head toward Borgarfjörður. This region is characterized by vast fields and natural beauty. Stop at the beautiful Hraunfossar waterfalls, where water flows from beneath a lava field into the river below, creating delicate cascades. 

Continue to the Snæfellsnes peninsula, visiting beautiful places along the way. Explore Búðir with its iconic black church standing alone against lava fields and ocean, Arnarstapi where dramatic rock formations have been carved by Atlantic waves, and Hellnar, another picturesque coastal village. Throughout the day, the mystical Snæfellsjökull glacier dominates the skyline, its ice-capped peak inspiring Jules Verne's 'Journey to the Center of the Earth.' Settle into your accommodation in the Snæfellsnes area for the night. 

Today you'll continue exploring the natural wonders of the Snæfellsnes peninsula and the stunning Snæfellsjökull glacier. This journey is perfect for nature lovers as you explore the dramatic world of the ocean, coastline, and beaches. Drive along the coast visiting many popular sites such as the impressive basalt pillars of Gerðuberg, where geometric columns create a natural wall. Visit Búðir with its small wooden church surrounded by an ancient lava field, creating one of Iceland's most photographed scenes. Explore Arnarstapi, a charming fishing village where you can admire the fascinating rock formations by the old pier. Stop at Djúpalónssandur, a striking black pebble beach where you can test your strength on ancient lifting stones and see rusted shipwreck remains scattered across the shore. 

On the northern part of the peninsula, drive along the shore of Breiðafjörður Bay, passing through charming fishing villages with colorful houses. The iconic Kirkjufell mountain rises dramatically beside a cascading waterfall. Spend a second night in the Snæfellsnes area. 

Your day will start with a scenic boat ride on the Baldur ferry, taking you to the beautiful Westfjords. You'll depart in the morning from Stykkishólmur, sailing through Breiðafjörður Bay toward Látrabjarg. The approximately three-hour crossing takes you past countless small islands dotting the water like jewels scattered across the bay. Keep your eyes open for seals lounging on rocky outcrops, seabirds wheeling overhead, and occasionally even whales in the distance. The ferry offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and coastline. 

After disembarking, you'll immediately enter Iceland's most remote wilderness. Today's highlights include exploring the southern Westfjords, where steep mountains and deep fjords dominate the landscape. Visit Rauðisandur beach, where reddish and golden sand creates a surreal scene unlike typical Icelandic beaches. Drive to Látrabjarg, the westernmost point of Iceland and one of Europe's largest bird cliffs, home to millions of seabirds during summer. Spend the night in the Southern Westfjords area. 

Today you continue north along the Westfjords, one of the most remote and breathtaking regions in all of Iceland. The landscape is absolutely spectacular as you cross mountains and heaths, driving along the dramatic fjords at the foot of steep cliffs. The narrow roads wind through valleys and along shorelines with stunning views at every turn. 

Stop along the way at the majestic Dynjandi waterfall that lies in the northern arm of Arnarfjörður fjord. This magnificent cascade tumbles down the mountainside in seven distinct tiers, creating a bridal veil effect that's absolutely stunning. The main falls are 100 meters high, and the thunder of water gives it its name. Hike up the path alongside the waterfall, passing several smaller but equally beautiful cascades. 

Continue toward the north through increasingly remote landscapes where signs of human habitation are few and far between. Drive through the tiny village of Flateyri, nestled at the head of a fjord. From there, drive onwards to reach your accommodation near Ísafjörður, the largest town in the Westfjords and the cultural heart of this remote region. 

Today your journey through the most remote places in Iceland continues as you explore Strandir, the eastern shore of the Westfjords. This isolated region offers some of Iceland's most spectacular and untouched landscapes. Drive along the numerous small fjords of Ísafjarðardjúp, the massive fjord system that nearly cuts the Westfjords peninsula in half. The route follows dramatic coastlines where mountains plunge steeply into deep blue waters. Pass by Vigur Island along the way, a small island known for its puffin colonies and traditional eiderdown harvesting that has continued for centuries. The landscape here feels wild and pristine, with few signs of human habitation. Watch for Arctic wildlife including seals and various seabird species. 

Continue through this remote region where roads wind along fjord edges and over mountain passes, offering breathtaking views at every turn. The sense of isolation and natural beauty is profound in this least-visited corner of Iceland. Arrive in the Hrútafjörður area for the night, on the border between the Westfjords and North Iceland. 

Today your journey will take you north to Akureyri, the capital of North Iceland. First, drive by Hvammstangi where you can observe seals basking on rocks or swimming in the coastal waters. This charming village sits beside Miðfjörður bay, a popular seal habitat. Continue through the Skagafjörður valley, an area renowned throughout Iceland for its exceptional horse breeding heritage. Many beautiful Icelandic horses can be seen grazing in the lush green fields that characterize this agricultural region. The valley has produced champion horses for generations, and the equestrian tradition runs deep here. 

A fun extra stop worth taking is a small detour to Hvítserkur, a 15-meter-high basalt sea stack rising dramatically from the ocean. This distinctive rock formation, which resembles a dragon drinking from the sea, stands on the eastern shore of the Vatnsnes peninsula. Legend says it's a petrified troll caught by sunrise. Continue your drive toward Akureyri, passing through increasingly mountainous terrain as you approach Eyjafjörður, Iceland's longest fjord. Arrive in Akureyri for the night, where this vibrant northern town offers excellent restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions. 

In the morning, you can spend some time exploring Akureyri before heading to the Lake Mývatn area. This charming northern capital offers delightful streets lined with colorful houses climbing the hillsides. Visit the beautiful botanical garden where Arctic plants surprisingly thrive, browse local shops and art galleries, or enjoy coffee at one of the cozy cafes overlooking Eyjafjörður fjord. The town has a cosmopolitan feel despite its small size, with excellent museums and restaurants. 

Head toward Lake Mývatn, undoubtedly one of Iceland's most renowned areas due to its intense volcanic activity and amazing bird life. The lake sits in an active volcanic zone, creating a unique ecosystem. On the way to Mývatn, plan to stop at the impressive Goðafoss waterfall, known as the 'Waterfall of the Gods,' where water cascades dramatically over a 12-meter horseshoe-shaped drop. Legend tells that when Iceland converted to Christianity around the year 1000, the lawspeaker threw his pagan idols into these falls, giving the waterfall its name. Arrive in the Mývatn area and begin exploring this geological wonderland. Spend the night near Lake Mývatn. 

Your whole day is dedicated to the marvels of the Lake Mývatn Nature Reserve, one of Iceland's most inspiring natural sights. This extraordinary region offers an incredible concentration of volcanic and geothermal features. Explore the Dimmuborgir lava formations, a labyrinth of twisted rock pillars and caves that create an otherworldly landscape. According to folklore, these "dark castles" are where Satan landed when cast from heaven. Visit the Skútustaðir pseudo-craters around the lake's southern shore, formed when hot lava flowed over wetlands, creating steam explosions. The Námaskarð geothermal area showcases bubbling mud pools and hissing steam vents, where the ground is painted in vivid shades of yellow, orange, and red from sulfur and mineral deposits. Explore the Krafla volcano system to see the stunning Víti crater lake with its milky blue-green water, and walk across recent lava fields from the 1980s eruptions. The lake itself teems with bird species, particularly ducks, making it a paradise for bird watchers during summer months. 

Why not experience the area's geothermal activity with a dip in the Earth Lagoon Mývatn. You could soak in warm geothermal waters overlooking the rugged volcanic landscape, a perfect way to end your day of exploration. Spend a second night in the Mývatn area. 

Your day starts in the charming fishing village of Húsavík, known as Iceland's whale-watching capital. This picturesque town sits beautifully on Skjálfandi Bay, where humpback whales, minke whales, and other species are frequently spotted during summer months. The colorful harbor and wooden church create a postcard-perfect scene. 

After exploring Húsavík, you'll drive along the Tjörnes Peninsula coastline, where dramatic cliffs meet the sea. Make a stop at the extremity of the peninsula to enjoy spectacular views and spot seabirds nesting on the cliffs. The area is also known for its fossil-rich sedimentary layers visible in the cliff faces. The journey then continues to the eastern part of Iceland, traveling through increasingly remote terrain. The route takes you through highland areas and along river valleys, where vast open landscapes create a profound sense of wilderness. This transition from the volcanic north to the mountainous east showcases Iceland's diverse geography. Arrive at your accommodation in the Egilsstaðir area for the night, gateway to the beautiful Eastfjords region. 

The day is for relaxing or for excursions around Egilsstaðir, giving you complete flexibility to explore this beautiful region at your own pace. It's worth making a trip to Bakkagerði, a remote village nestled beneath towering peaks, known for its elf folklore and stunning coastal scenery. Drive to Seyðisfjörður, renowned as one of the most beautiful of the Eastfjords. This charming artistic village sits at the end of a stunning fjord, surrounded by cascading waterfalls and mountains. The colorful wooden houses and thriving arts community create a unique atmosphere. Walk around Lake Lögurinn, Iceland's third-largest lake, surrounded by birch forests where wild reindeer roam. 

Hike to Hengifoss waterfall, one of Iceland's highest at 128 meters, where water plunges dramatically over alternating layers of red clay and black basalt. The hike takes about 40 minutes each way and offers beautiful views throughout. With multiple excellent options, choose based on your interests and energy level. Accommodation is in the same location as the previous day, giving you a second night in the Egilsstaðir area. 

Today is the day to discover the beautiful Eastfjords, where steep mountains rise dramatically above deep blue fjords. Start your journey toward Reyðarfjörður, where you'll find a small but fascinating World War II museum documenting the significant Allied military presence in these remote fjords during the war. Thousands of British and American troops were stationed here. 

Continue along the fjords toward Southeast Iceland, driving through spectacular coastal scenery. The road winds along the shoreline and mountainsides, sometimes hanging precariously high on the slopes, offering breathtaking views across the water at every turn. Each fjord has its own unique character and charm. Pass through tiny fishing villages where colorful houses cluster around small harbors, their economies still dependent on the sea. Watch for reindeer, which roam freely in this region and are found nowhere else in Iceland. At times, the road climbs to dizzying heights before descending again to sea level. Finally, drive through the Almannaskarð tunnel, bursting through the mountain to emerge with spectacular views of Vatnajökull glacier dominating the western horizon. Arrive in the Höfn region, where you'll spend the night. This fishing town is famous for its langoustine harvest. 

Your next stop is Iceland's scenic southeast, one of the most visually spectacular regions in the entire country. After passing various outlet glaciers belonging to Vatnajökull, Europe's largest ice cap, you'll arrive at the stunningly surreal beauty of Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. Watch enormous icebergs that have calved from Breiðamerkurjökull glacier drift slowly through the deep blue water toward the ocean. This exceptional sight sits at the foot of Iceland's highest mountain, Hvannadalshnúkur. The icebergs range from brilliant white to stunning shades of blue, some streaked with black volcanic ash. Seals often swim between the floating ice chunks. Cross the road to Diamond Beach, where ice fragments wash up on black volcanic sand, sparkling like giant diamonds as waves wash around them. 

Visit Skaftafell, another area definitely worth exploring. This green oasis surrounded by glaciers and black sand plains offers a broad range of options for great hiking through birch woodlands with stunning views of glacial tongues and waterfalls. The hiking trails range from easy nature walks to challenging mountain routes. Later, continue your drive west to the Vík or Kirkjubæjarklaustur area for your overnight stay. 

Today you can start by exploring the dramatic features of Iceland's famous south coast. Visit Reynisfjara, the renowned black sand beach famous for the Reynisdrangar sea stacks that rise dramatically from the sea like petrified trolls, and its impressive hexagonal basalt columns that resemble a natural cathedral. The powerful Atlantic waves crash against the shore with tremendous force, creating a mesmerizing but potentially dangerous scene. 

Visit Dyrhólaey cape, the southernmost point of mainland Iceland, where a small road takes you to the top of this 120-meter-high sea cliff. From this dramatic promontory, you'll enjoy spectacular views along the coastline in both directions, and you can often see large numbers of puffins nesting on the cliff faces during summer months. Please note that Dyrhólaey is closed during puffin nesting season from May 15 to June 23, and from mid-August the puffins will have departed to sea. 

Continuing westbound, you'll arrive at Skógar and pass Skógafoss waterfall, one of Iceland's highest and most impressive at 60 meters. Climb the stairs beside the falls for incredible views from above. As you continue toward Selfoss, pass Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where you can actually walk behind the cascading water for a unique perspective. Don't miss the nearby hidden Gljúfrabúi waterfall tucked into a narrow canyon. Spend the night in the south. 

Today you'll explore and marvel at the attractions of the famous Golden Circle, experiencing Iceland's most iconic natural wonders. First stop is the imposing Gullfoss waterfall, where the powerful Hvítá river plunges in two dramatic stages into a rugged canyon. The sheer volume of water creates massive clouds of mist, and the thundering sound is awe-inspiring. 

Continue to the Geysir geothermal area, home to numerous hot springs, bubbling mud pools, and steaming vents. Here you can witness Strokkur geyser propel water columns 15-20 meters into the air every 5 to 10 minutes. The anticipation before each eruption creates excitement that never diminishes. The surrounding geothermal field steams with colorful mineral deposits created by the hot water. 

Last but not least, visit Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site where history and geology combine spectacularly. This is where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, creating an impressive landscape of deep fissures and towering rock walls. Walk through the Almannagjá rift valley, where you can literally see the continents pulling apart at a rate of about 2 centimeters per year. This is also where Iceland's ancient parliament, the Alþingi, was established in 930 AD, making it one of the world's oldest democratic assemblies. Later, you'll reach Reykjavík where you'll spend the night, beginning your two-day exploration of Iceland's charming capital. 

Reykjavík offers a wide range of sights to visit and activities to enjoy, and today you have a full free day to explore at your leisure. Among the things you can experience in Reykjavík are the old city center, where you can walk by the lake Tjörnin, visit the Town Hall with its impressive 3D map of Iceland, and walk through Austurvöllur square where the Parliament building stands. Continue down to the harbor area to see fishing boats, maritime activity, and the modern Harpa Concert Hall with its striking glass facade. Stroll along the main street Laugavegur to browse shops selling Icelandic wool products and Nordic design, explore art galleries showcasing local artists, and find a restaurant or cafe to your liking. Don't miss the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church, whose tower offers magnificent panoramic views over the whole city and surrounding mountains. 

Visit Perlan, a modern building with a distinctive glass dome from where you have spectacular views across Reykjavík and Faxaflói Bay. There are several museums worth visiting in Reykjavík, including the National Museum of Iceland near the University, which tells Iceland's story from settlement to present day, the National Gallery of Iceland with its collection of Icelandic art, and the Reykjavík Art Museum with its three different locations. A whale-watching tour from Reykjavík harbor is a wonderful experience, or you can take a half-day excursion to the nearby Reykjanes Peninsula to explore the dramatic geothermal springs in Krýsuvík. Spend a second night in Reykjavík. 

Now it's time to head back home after an amazing journey through one of the world's most picturesque landscapes. Depending on your flight time, you may be able to enjoy your last morning strolling around Reykjavík. Take a leisurely breakfast at one of the city's excellent cafes, do some final souvenir shopping for Icelandic wool sweaters or local design items, or take one last walk through the colorful streets you've explored over the past two days. If your flight is later in the day, visit any attractions you might have missed or simply relax at a favorite cafe, reflecting on your incredible 17-day adventure across the entire country. Or, even better, consider booking an extra night in Reykjavík to really give yourself time to experience all the amazing things Iceland's capital city has to offer, from geothermal pools to nightlife. 

Drive back to Keflavík Airport to return your rental car and check in for your flight home, carrying memories of the remote Westfjords with their dramatic cliffs and pristine wilderness, the magical Snæfellsnes peninsula, the complete Ring Road circuit, every national park, countless waterfalls and glaciers, volcanic landscapes, floating icebergs, and the deep connections you've formed with Iceland's extraordinary natural beauty and welcoming culture. You've experienced Iceland comprehensively and authentically over more than two weeks. You're already planning your return visit.