Grand Iceland Ring Road Self Drive - 19 Days

Today you'll discover a culturally and historically rich area as you head toward Borgarfjörður. This fertile valley was the setting for many Icelandic sagas. 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, Arnarstapi where dramatic rock formations have been carved by waves, and Hellnar, another picturesque coastal village. Throughout the day, the mystical Snæfellsjökull glacier dominates the skyline. 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, carved by centuries of Atlantic waves. Stop at Djúpalónssandur, a striking black sand beach where you can test your strength on ancient lifting stones and see rusted shipwreck remains. 

On the northern part of the peninsula, drive along the shore of Breiðafjörður Bay, passing through charming fishing villages with colorful houses overlooking the water. 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. Keep your eyes open for seals, seabirds, and occasionally whales. After disembarking, the highlights of the day include the spectacular Látrabjarg cliffs, one of Europe's largest bird cliffs and home to millions of seabirds including Iceland's largest puffin colony during summer months. The cliffs stretch for 14 kilometers and rise up to 440 meters above the Atlantic. 

Continue to Rauðisandur beach, a beautiful and unique beach where the reddish and golden color of the sand contrasts dramatically with the surrounding landscape, creating a surreal scene unlike typical Icelandic beaches. 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 to visit Dynjandi, a beautiful and majestic 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. 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 cascades. Continue toward the north until you reach the village of Flateyri, a small settlement nestled at the head of a fjord. From there, drive onwards to reach your accommodation in the northern part of the Westfjords, near Ísafjörður. 

Today you'll have time to visit Ísafjörður, the largest town in the Westfjords and the cultural heart of this remote region. Enjoy the beautiful landscape surrounding this charming town and join in with the lively atmosphere that the community has to offer. Despite its remote location, Ísafjörður has a vibrant arts and music scene, excellent restaurants, and interesting museums documenting the region's maritime heritage. You can relax at the town's swimming pool, which offers hot pots with fjord views, a favorite local gathering spot. 

Visit the fishing villages around the area, each with its own character. Explore Bolungarvík, the second-largest town in the Westfjords, Flateyri with its dramatic avalanche barriers, or Suðureyri, a tiny village accessible through a tunnel. Each village offers insights into traditional Westfjords life and stunning coastal scenery. Browse local shops, visit museums, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this isolated region. Take time to appreciate the slower pace of life and the strong sense of community in these remote settlements. Spend a second night in the northern Westfjords area. 

Today your journey through the most remote places in Iceland continues as you begin making your way from the Westfjords toward North Iceland. The route follows roads along the eastern part of the Westfjords. Experience spectacular landscapes while driving along the numerous small fjords of Ísafjarðardjúp, the massive fjord that nearly cuts the peninsula in half. Pass by Vigur Island along the way, known for its puffin colonies and traditional eiderdown harvesting. The landscape is wild and windswept, with mountains rising from the sea and dramatic coastal scenery. 

Continue through remote areas where abandoned farms remind you of the harsh conditions once endured. The sense of isolation is profound. As you leave the Westfjords and head toward North Iceland, the landscape gradually transitions. Drive through the Skagafjörður region, known for exceptional horse breeding. Many stunning Icelandic horses can be seen grazing in fields during your drive. Arrive in the Hrútafjörður area for the night, positioned perfectly for tomorrow's journey to Akureyri. 

Today you'll continue your journey toward Akureyri, the charming capital of the north. The drive takes you through beautiful landscapes, passing through valleys and along coastlines with stunning mountain views. As you approach Akureyri, you'll notice the dramatic change in scenery as the town sits nestled at the head of Iceland's longest fjord, Eyjafjörður. 

Once you arrive in Akureyri, take time to explore this vibrant northern city. Browse the charming downtown area with its colorful buildings, visit the striking Akureyrarkirkja church perched on a hill overlooking the town, or stroll through the beautiful botanical gardens showcasing Arctic flora. The town offers excellent restaurants, cozy cafes, and interesting shops selling local crafts and woolens. Visit the swimming pool with its geothermal hot tubs, a favorite gathering spot for locals. If time permits, you might drive partway around the spectacular Tröllaskagi peninsula to get a taste of the dramatic scenery you'll explore more tomorrow. Settle into your accommodation in the Akureyri area for the night. 

You'll spend the day visiting Akureyri and exploring the spectacular Tröllaskagi peninsula, also known as the 'Peninsula of the Trolls.' This dramatic region jutting between two fjords offers stunning scenery at every turn. Drive toward the fishing village of Dalvík, where you can take a whale-watching tour to spot humpback whales and other species in the rich waters of Eyjafjörður. 

Continue to Ólafsfjörður and Siglufjörður, charming villages nestled beneath towering mountains with rich herring fishing heritage. The drive between these villages takes you through mountain tunnels and along dramatic coastal roads. You can take a short ferry ride to the island of Hrísey, Iceland's second-largest island, known for its peaceful atmosphere and bird life. On the way back to Akureyri, make a stop at the geothermal pool in Hofsós, which offers impressive views over Skagafjörður fjord from its infinity edge. The combination of warm water and spectacular vistas is unforgettable. Return to Akureyri for a second night in the area. 

In the morning, you can spend some time exploring more of Akureyri before heading to the Lake Mývatn area. Browse the town's excellent shops, visit the beautiful botanical garden, or enjoy a coffee with views of the fjord. Lake Mývatn is 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 drop. Continue to the Lake Mývatn area, where you can begin exploring the numerous volcanic formations, geothermal areas, and natural wonders. Visit the Skútustaðir pseudo-craters and the mysterious lava formations of Dimmuborgir. The contrast between the serene lake and raw volcanic features is striking. Spend the night in the Mývatn area, with a full day tomorrow to explore further. 

Your whole day is dedicated to exploring the marvels of the Lake Mývatn Nature Reserve, one of Iceland's most inspiring natural sights. The region offers an incredible concentration of geological wonders. Explore areas you may have missed yesterday or revisit favorites. Visit the Námaskarð geothermal area with its bubbling mud pools and hissing steam vents, where the ground is painted in vivid colors from mineral deposits. Explore the Krafla volcano area to see the Víti crater lake and walk across recent lava fields from the 1980s eruptions. The lake itself is beautiful and serene, teeming with rich birdlife including numerous duck species. 

Wander through more of the Dimmuborgir lava formations, exploring the dark labyrinth at your own pace. Why not experience the area's geothermal activity with a dip in Earth Lagoon (available as an add-on)? You could soak in the warm geothermal waters overlooking the rugged volcanic landscape, the perfect way to relax after a day of exploration. The milky blue waters are rich in minerals. 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 on a beautiful bay where humpback whales and other species are frequently spotted. After exploring Húsavík, you'll drive along the coastline of the Tjörnes peninsula, where dramatic cliffs meet the sea. Make a stop at the extremity of the peninsula to enjoy the view and spot some seabirds nesting on the cliffs. The area is also known for its fossil-rich layers. 

Continue your journey to the eastern part of Iceland, with a few stops along the way. The route takes you through remote highland areas and along river valleys, with vast open landscapes creating a profound sense of wilderness. Arrive at your accommodation in the Egilsstaðir area for your next evening's stay, gateway to the beautiful Eastfjords region. 

The day is for relaxing or for excursions around Egilsstaðir, giving you flexibility to explore this beautiful region at your own pace. It is worth making a trip to Seyðisfjörður, renowned as one of the most beautiful of the Eastfjords. This charming village sits at the end of a stunning fjord, surrounded by towering mountains with cascading waterfalls. The colorful wooden houses and thriving arts scene create a unique atmosphere. 

Alternatively, drive to Bakkagerði, a remote village known for its elf folklore and stunning coastal scenery. Walk around Lake Lögurinn, Iceland's third-largest lake, surrounded by forests. Hike to Hengifoss waterfall, one of Iceland's highest at 128 meters, where water plunges over colorful layers of red clay and black basalt. The hike takes about 40 minutes and offers beautiful views. You could also explore Hallormsstaður, Iceland's largest forest, home to wild reindeer. With so many options, you can choose based on your interests and energy level. Spend a second night in the Egilsstaðir area, enjoying the tranquility of East Iceland. 

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 Allied presence in these remote fjords. Continue along the fjords toward Southeast Iceland, driving through spectacular coastal scenery. The road winds along the shoreline and lower mountainsides, offering beautiful 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, and locals still make their living from the sea. Watch for reindeer grazing on mountain slopes. As you drive, you'll pass through tunnels carved through mountains, connecting one fjord to the next. Finally, drive through the Almannaskarð tunnel, emerging with spectacular views of Vatnajökull glacier dominating the horizon. Arrive in the Höfn region, where you'll spend the night in the area. 

Your next stop is Iceland's scenic southeast, one of the most visually spectacular regions in the 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 deep blue water. This exceptional sight sits at the foot of Iceland's highest mountain, Hvannadalshnúkur, creating a dramatic backdrop. The icebergs range from brilliant white to stunning shades of blue, some streaked with black volcanic ash. Seals often swim between the ice chunks. Cross the road to Diamond Beach, where ice chunks wash up on black volcanic sand, sparkling like giant diamonds. 

Visit Skaftafell, another area definitely worth exploring. This oasis surrounded by glaciers and black sand plains offers a broad range of options for great hiking through birch forests with stunning views of glacial tongues and waterfalls. Later, continue your drive 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 and its impressive hexagonal basalt columns. The powerful Atlantic waves crash against the shore, creating a mesmerizing 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 here, you'll enjoy spectacular views along the coast, 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 15 May to 23 June, and from mid-August the puffins will have gone to sea. Continuing westbound, you'll arrive at Skógar and pass Skógafoss waterfall, one of Iceland's highest at 60 meters. Climb the stairs beside the falls for incredible aerial views. 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. Spend the night in the south. 

Today you'll explore and marvel at the attractions of the famous Golden Circle, experiencing these iconic sites without any rush. First stop is the imposing Gullfoss waterfall, where the Hvítá river plunges in two dramatic stages into a rugged canyon. The sheer power is awe-inspiring, with massive volumes of water creating clouds of mist. Continue to the Geysir geothermal area, home to numerous hot springs and bubbling pools. Here you can witness Strokkur geyser propel water in the air every 5 to 10 minutes. The anticipation before each eruption creates excitement that never gets old. The surrounding geothermal field steams with colorful mineral deposits. 

Last but not least, visit Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This is where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, creating this impressive landscape of deep fissures and towering rock walls. Walk through the Almannagjá rift valley, where you can literally see the continents pulling apart. This is also where Iceland's ancient parliament was established in 930 AD, making it one of the oldest parliamentary sites in the world. Later, you'll reach Reykjavík, where you'll spend the night. 

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 own pace. 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 large 3D map of Iceland, and walk through Austurvöllur square where the Parliament building stands. Continue down to the harbor area to see fishing boats and tour operators. Stroll along the main street, Laugavegur, to browse the shops, art galleries, and find a restaurant or cafe to your liking. 

Don't miss the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church, whose tower offers magnificent views over the whole city, or Perlan, a modern building with a dome from where you have spectacular panoramic views. There are several museums worth visiting, including the National Museum of Iceland near the University, the National Gallery of Iceland, and the Reykjavík Art Museum with its three different collections. Consider a whale-watching tour from Reykjavík harbor, or take a half-day excursion to the nearby Reykjanes Peninsula to explore the geothermal springs in Krýsuvík. Relax in one of the city's many geothermal swimming pools, a beloved Icelandic tradition where locals gather to soak and socialize. This is your final night in Iceland, so perhaps celebrate your incredible 19-day journey with a special dinner at one of the city's top restaurants, reflecting on all the amazing experiences you've had. 

It seems as if your journey to fabulous Iceland only began a moment ago, but now it is time to head back home. Depending on your flight time, you may have a few hours to enjoy a final morning in Reykjavík. Take a leisurely breakfast, do some last-minute souvenir shopping, or take one more walk through the colorful streets you've come to know. If your flight is later in the day, you may be able to squeeze in a last activity in Reykjavík or visit one more attraction in the city. Perhaps stop at a favorite cafe one final time or browse a shop you discovered during your free day. 

Drive back to Keflavík Airport to return your rental car and check in for your flight home, carrying memories of nearly three weeks exploring every corner of Iceland. You've experienced the remote Westfjords, the complete Ring Road, the magical Snæfellsnes peninsula, a free day to truly connect with Reykjavík, and countless natural wonders from floating icebergs to powerful waterfalls. You've lived Iceland, not just visited it. You're already planning your return.