Geothermal Lagoon – Flower Village – Geothermal Greenhouses / Approximate distance: 100 km / 62 miles
Pick up the car at the airport and start your Iceland experience. From Keflavik International Airport, we recommend driving the southern coast of the Reykjanes peninsula towards your first overnight stay in the charming village of Hveragerdi. This village is one of the few sites in the world located directly on top of a geothermal area and, because of its many greenhouses heated by hot water from nearby springs, it is often called the “flower village.“ If your flight arrives early in the day, you might stop at the Blue Lagoon (a short distance from the airport) for a chance to relax in the soothing geothermal mineral waters. Important:  Please note that admission to the Blue Lagoon must be booked in advance. Overnight stay in Hveragerdi.

Our recommendations for your stay in or around Hveragerdi:

Mörk Gueshouse value for money and only 250 meters from the centre.
Gljúfurbústaðir Holiday Homes, very comfortable with own hot tub!
Reykjadalur Guesthouse only 500 meter from the centre and very affordable price
Honeymooners love the Golden Circle Domes sleeping in a Bubble room and watch the Aurora Borealis.
Hotel Eldhestar, on an unique location between volcanic mountains, rivers and only 30 mins. drive from Reykjavik.
Hotel Grimsborgir is situated in South Iceland in Grímsnes, within a five-minute drive from the Capital Reykjavik.

World-Renowned National Park – Bubbling Geysers – Golden Waterfall / Approximate distance: 186 km / 115 miles
Drive to Thingvellir National Park, the site of Iceland’s ancient parliament and a real gem natural scenery. The park itself is situated in a stunning volcanic landscape of mountains and lava flows, on the border of Iceland’s largest lake. Continue to the famous Geysir hot spring area and the mighty Gullfoss waterfall.
Overnight stay in the Fludir area, i.e. in Kletter Tower Iceland  A tower with Panoramic view deck that with 4 apartments in it. Hotel Fludir offers accommodation in proximity to the Golden Circle of Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir Hot Springs and Thingvellir. Guesthouse Dalbaer this family-run B&B is set in a former farmhouse and has a geothermal hot tub in the garden. Úthlíd Cottages perfect located, 15 minutes’ drive from Geysir and 18 km from Gullfoss waterfall. A little further in Laugaras, Brekkugerdi Guesthouse, is a family-run guesthouse that offers the ideal base for visits to Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir and the national park Thingvellir are within 30 minutes drive.

Southern waterfalls – Black sand beaches – Bird Cliff – Vast Lava Field / Approximate distance: 215 km / 133 miles
Drive along the spectacular south coast, viewing highlights such as Skogafoss waterfall, Myrdalsjokull glacier, the bird cliffs of Dyrholaey and the black sand beaches of Vik. After Vik you see the turn off to Hjorleifskofði Cave and promontory (piece of land that sticks into the sea). This is the burial place of one of the first Vikings dated 874AD.  At the base of the promontory you will find the photogenic Gýgagjá cave, nick named Yoda Cave.  Continue across the vast Eldhraun lava field to the village of Kirkjubaejarklaustur, which is known for its fabulous trout fishing.
Overnight stay in Southeast Iceland, i.e. in Hotel Klaustur with great staff that give you a wake up call if the Aurora Borealis is at its strongest. Or try Hotel Smyrlabjörg in a very serene location with beautiful views!

Spectacular Canyon- Crater Area – Historic Eruption Site / Approximate distance: 120 km / 74 miles
Enjoy the day exploring this little known area. We recommend a hike in magnificent Fjadrargljufur, one of the most spectacular canyons in Iceland. If you are traveling in June, July, or August a longer detour to the volcanic Laki craters (Lakagigar) is a great option. The drive, for which you’ll need a rental car category 5.0 or higher, takes you to the site of a catastrophic eruption in 1783-84, and includes beautiful sights such as Laki, the largest of the craters, which is 818 metres (2684 feet) high and affords a breathtaking view over the craters.
Overnight stay in Southeast Iceland i.e. in Dalshöfdi Guesthouse, a beautiful remote place perfect for watching the Aurora.

Glacier-Rimmed Green Oasis – Glacial Lagoon – Europe‘s Largest Glacier / Approximate distance: 204 km / 126 miles
Today you will be in the area of Vatnajokull National Park, a vast area named after Europe‘s largest glacier. You will have many amazing views of this glacier as you head along your route. Visit the park‘s awe-inspiring Skaftafell area, a green oasis which is set between glaciers and offers many hiking possibilities. On your way to the shimmering icebergs of Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon and the harbour town of Hofn, you will pass the small town Hof. Make a stop here to see the Hofskirkja Church .  This wooden church with a roof of turf and grass, was built in 1883.  Continue to Höfn, also known as the lobster capital of northern Europe.
Overnight stay in Höfn.
Hotel recommendations for Höfn:
Fosshótel Vatnajökull  location and the view are great, the food at the restaurant was delicious.
Hotel Höfn “Get the lobster feast for 2 at the restaurant”
Árnanes Country Hotel Boasting panoramic views towards the famous Vatnajökull glacier and the surrounding mountains.
Brunnholl Country Guesthouse family-run guest house, set on a working farm breakfast with farm products, affordable.

Spectacular Fjord Views – Charming Fishing Villages – Ancient Rocks – Wilderness Center / Approximate distance: 187 km / 116 miles
Drive through the spectacular East Fjords region, past towering mountains and through charming fishing villages, to the fertile Egilsstadir area. On the way it is possible to take a boat tour to Papey Island, where thousands of puffins nest in the summer (mid May to early August), or visit Petra’s famous local stone and mineral collection at Stodvarfjordur. In the Egilsstadir area, you can visit the beautiful Hallormsstadur forest and a river reputed to be the home of a friendly sea monster. Visit the new Wilderness Center located at the edge of the hauntingly beautiful eastern highlands. Here you can discover Iceland‘s pioneer history and highland nature in a clever interactive way.
Overnight stay in Egilsstadir.

We recommend the following hotels in Egilsstadir:
Hotel 1001 Nott The hotel features outdoor hot tubs overlooking Lake Lagarfljót.
Eyjólfsstadir Guesthouse  Great breakfast with wonderful homemade bread.
Greystone summerhouse   Comfortably fit my family of 6, fully equiped with kitchen and terrace.
Við Lónið Guesthouse The location was perfect, right on the rainbow walk and lovely seaview (18 km from Egilsstadir)

Artistic Fjord Villages –  Elfin Folklore – Amazing views of fjords and sky / Approximate distance: 140 km / 86 miles
Explore the quaint village of Seydisfjordur, the port for the the ferry from Europe. Here you can visit an artistic display where the wind makes a beautiful singing sound. Also explore Borgarfjordur Eystri, steeped in the folklore of elves. This area also has excellent hiking paths. Both villages are known for their friendly locals and rich artistic communities. Drive 6 km onward to Hafnarholmi a small peninsula were in season (April – 15 Aug) the puffin birds nest.
Overnight stay in Egilsstadir area or in Borgarfjordur Estri (Blabjorg guesthouse) if you want to see the puffins returning to their nests at the end of the day.

Vast highlands – Northern Vatnajokull National Park – Echo Rocks – Whale Watching Capital / Approximate distance: 175 km / 108 miles Travel across the vast Modrudalsoraefi highlands, which are renowned for their stark beauty, to the mighty Dettifoss waterfall. Explore the many wonders of northern Vatnajokull National Park, such as the strange formations of Hljodaklettar (Echo Rocks) and the impressive horseshoe-shaped Asbyrgi canyon. Leave the highway 1 just after Studlagil hotel and take left onto the scenic 923. Follow the signs to Stuðlagil Canyon Viewpoint and enjoy an amazing view into the basalt canyon.  Continue along Tjornes peninsula at the edge of the Arctic Circle to the fishing village of Husavik. This town is known as the capital of whale watching for its excellent sightings. Perhaps you will enjoy a whale watching tour on a beautifully-restored oak boat.
Overnight stay in Lake Myvatn area:

Fosshótel Mývatn Situated on top of a hill, the hotel was very modern, chic and centrally located.
Slow Travel Mývatn Private Homestay All natural wonders, like the volcanically active region of Krafla with its blast craters Víti and Leirhnjúkur, Hverir geothermal area, Hverfell blast crater, Grjótagjá and Stóragjá caves with its hot thermal water, Dimmuborgir troll garden, pseudo craters in Skútustaðir, Vindbelgur and Hliðarfjall mountain tracks, Höfði and Kálfaströnd are reachable within 15 minutes by car.

Volcanic Wonders- Dark Citadels – Colorful Thermal areas – Nature Baths Distance is variable.
Spend the day exploring the natural wonders of Lake Myvatn and the surrounding area. Visit highlights such as the surreal dark citadels at Dimmuborgir, the pseudo craters at Skutustadir, the colourful sulphurous slopes of Namaskard and the Krafla volcano area. Get closer to the region with guided tours on bikes or horseback. After a fun day, you might relax in the peaceful Myvatn Nature baths, a favorite of both locals and visitors.
Overnight stay in Lake Myvatn area

Waterfall of the Gods – Iceland´s “Capital of the North” – Botanical Gardens Approximate distance: 91 km / 57 miles
Spend the day driving from Lake Myvatn to the majestic Godafoss waterfall and onwards to explore Akureyri, the capital of the north. Explore the second largest town in Iceland, perhaps visiting the famous thermal swimming pool, the many museums, and the landmark church.  Activities are plentiful in the area, including horseback riding, hiking on local trails, a guided art gallery walk, fishing and whale watching. Please Note:  The Ring Road route today contains a toll tunnel.
Overnight stay in Akureyri.

Where to sleep in Akureyri:
Hotel Akureyri Dynheimar “cool movie theme for each room and the hotel itself”
Hrafninn Guesthouse “Amazing location, and a very charming hotel cozy with a fun vibe”
Guesthouse Baegisa Intimate place to stay, beautifully nestled between two valleys, with wonderful cook & hostess
Sunnuhlid houses Great view and remote setting, lovely design of little house

Beautiful fjord coastline – Herring Boom Town – Infinity Pool – Saga and Horse Heritage / Approximate distance: 250 km / 155 miles
Drive to Siglufjordur along the Troll Peninsula, one of Iceland´s most beautiful coastlines, where you’ll get a unique view towards the North Atlantic. In the charming town of Siglufjordur enjoy discovering the history of the town at the award-winning Herring Museum.  This accounts the early 20th century days that transformed a small fishing village temporarily into a boom town. Stop in Hofsos town, where you can visit the beautiful Infinity Pool and its unique optical illusion. Explore the fascinating area of Skagafjordur, renowned for horse breeding and many sites from Icelandic Saga History, before driving to Hrutafjordur. A recommended stop along the way is Vatnsdalsholar, a cluster of hills found in Vatnsdalur valley. Vatnsdalur is an area renowned as the home of a famous female Viking chieftain. It is also the haunting setting for the famous historical novel by Hannah Kent, Burial Rites, which describes the last execution in Iceland in the 19th century.
Overnight stay in Varmahlid/Laugarbakki area
Solvanes Farm Holidays, working traditional sheep farm situated in the beautiful valley of Skagafjördur, waterfalls and hiking trails close by. Hestasport Apartment, 3 bedroom apartment situated approximately 5 minutes’ stroll of Orlygsstadir. Hestasport Cottages, overlooking the vast plains and distant mountains of the Skagafjörður valley, shared natural hot tub available.
Hotel Tindastóll in Sauðárkrókur, offers great seaviews

Vik- Holmavik, Icelandic Witchcraft Museum – Isolated Beauty- Spine of the West Fjords / Approximate distance: 250km / 155miles
Drive along the low hills of Hrutafjordur Fjord towards jagged mountains that rise straight from the sea in the area of Holmavik and Drangsnes. For centuries, this was one of the most isolated regions in Iceland. It is a region of remote and spectacular beauty. Here you can enjoy the peace and solitude that is rare in so many places. Strandir is literally the spine of the Westfjords, a place of spiky fjords and majestic crags. In ancient times, the inhabitants were reputed to have knowledge of magic. You can find out about these traditions at the Icelandic Museum of Sorcery and Witchcraft in Holmavik town.
Overnight in the Holmavik – Drangsnes area.
Gistihús Hólmavíkur within walking distance of Museum of Icelandic Sorcery & Witchcraft with bar and restaurant.
Finna Hotel is centrally located  perfect for visiting the Museum of Icelandic Sorcery & Witchcraft, the Sheep Farming Museum or the Holmavik Sports Center.
Dalamynni, a house with four bedrooms with beautiful views 47 km outside Holmavik.
Malarhorn Guesthouse in Drangsnes is overlooking the Greenland Sea, visitors can embark the boat to Grimsey Island to see the puffins.
Hotel Laugerhol is North of Drangsnes and it offers a swimming pool and adjacent natural thermal springs.
Sunna’s Guesthouse only a short stroll to the harbour for the boat to Grimsey Island.

Capital of the Westfjords- Rich Birdlife – Island in Harmony with Nature / Approximate distance: 221 km / 137 miles
Thread your away along the numerous uninhabited fjords of Isafjardardjup, which boasts a beautiful coastline alive with seals and birds. Continue to Isafjordur, the largest town in the Westfjords. This town has some of the oldest buildings in the country, many beautifully-restored. Enjoy a guided walking tour through back streets and history. Take a ferry to the island community of Vigur, where locals practice the sustainable tradition of eider duck farming. This is also the only place in Iceland with a traditional wind mill. If you enjoy activities, Isafjordur is well known for its sea kayaking in the glassy fjord waters.
Overnight in Isafjordur area.
Hótel Torfnes is located in Ísafjörður, a 16-minute walk from Pollurinn Hot Springs.
Gamla Guesthouse Ísafjörður, has eight rooms and is located in the heart of Ísafjörður
Hotel Ísafjörður Torg guests can dine at the on-site restaurant and buy Icelandic crafts in the lobby.
Fisherman Hotel Suðureyri best for visiting the Pollurinn Hot Spring, skiing at Ísafjordur, or strolling along the Vatnadalsvatn.
Litlabýli is a cosy guesthouse offering beautiful mountain and fjord views.

Friendly towns – traditional and modern fishing heritage – Hornstrandir Nature Reserve Distance is variable. Spend time in Isafjordur and the surrounding area, including the neighboring towns of Bolungarvik and Sudureyri.  Sudureyri offers a friendly and informative walking tour focused on the town‘s eco-friendly fishing. Along the route you can sample gourmet and traditional fish delicacies. Discover older fishing traditions at the Osvor traditional fishing camp, a restored 19th century area where locals fished at sea using simple wooden rowboats. Mountain biking, hiking, paragliding, mountaineering, you name it, Westfjords can serve it all. For calmer activities, there are several golf courses in the region, and sea kayaking is a peaceful way to spend the afternoon exploring the picturesque fjords Hornstrandir Nature Reserve is another place worth visiting. It is remote and off limits to all motorized traffic, so the pure and wild nature can only be accessed by boat and is ideal for hikers and nature lovers alike.
Overnight in Isafjordur area.

Multi-tiered waterfall – Europe‘s Westernmost point- Europe´s largest bird cliff / Approximate distance: 287 km / 178 miles
Drive from Isafjordur through the beautiful West Fjords. En route, enjoy provincial charms in the fishing villages of Thingeyri before arriving to the beautiful Dynjandi. At Dynjandi waterfall, the thunderous power of the main cascade drops 100 meters (329 ft) off the edge of a mountain. The waterfall base provides views seaward over lush valleys, making it an ideal picnic stop. Outdoor bathing in natural hot springs is a common activity enjoyed in the Westfjords, which has many hidden bathing spots in remote locations. Visit Latrabjarg cliffs, the westernmost point in Europe. The remarkable 441-meter-high (1,447 ft) sea cliffs are alive with millions of playful puffins, gannets, guillemots and razorbills.
This beautiful natural sculpture has been recognised by both Lonely Planet and National Geographic as one of the greatest wildlife spectacles in the world. The cliffs make a stunning viewpoint to the beautiful beaches below during the Midnight Sun of summer.
Overnight in the southern part of the Westfjords. Hótel Sandefell a guesthouse and restaurant located in the beautiful surroundings of Dýrafjördur(fjord). Guesthouse by the Fjord features a terrace, a garden and a barbecue. Wi-Fi is available free of charge.

Raudisandur beach – Ferry Ride across a Bay of a Thousand Islands / Approximate distance:  100 km / 65 miles
On the southern shore of the Westfjords is the Raudasandur beach, meaning ‘The Red Sand Beach‘. A lot of people associate Iceland only with black beaches, but Raudasandur beach throws that assumption out the window, with its golden and red colours set in magnificent surroundings of blackcliffs and blue ocean. Sail with the ferry Baldur across beautiful Breidafjordur Bay, with its countless islands and rich birdlife. You will pass by the island of Flatey and its timber buildings on the way to the charming village of Stykkisholmur for an overnight stay. You might recognize the town from movies such as The Secret Life of Walter Mitty and Pawn Sacrifice. The Museum of Water – featured in author Rebecca Solnit’s memoir The Faraway Nearby – is a popular place for visitors with its unique architecture.
Overnight in Stykkisholmur. Fosshotel Stykkisholmur has a good restaurant with views of the islands, it is ideally located for a visit to Volcano Museum, the Lighthouse Sugandisey or the Bjarnarhofn Shark Museum. Sýsló Guesthouse only a few minutes walking distance from a thermal swimming pool, shops, galleries, museums and restaurants, in Stykkishólmur. Hótel Fransiskus Stykkishólmi guests can explore the Snæfellsnes peninsula and attractions such as Flatey island, Stykkishólmur Church and the bay of Breidarfjordur.

Magical Glacier Volcano– Sea Cliffs with Birdlife – Picturesque Waterfalls / Approximate distance: 300 km / 186 miles
Continue around the Snaefellsnes peninsula, passing the small fishing villages Hellissandur and Grundarfjordur. Make a stop at the magnificent columnar basalt rock formations at Arnarstapi, as well as the rocky beach of Djupalonssandur. Pass Eldborg crater en route to the agricultural region of Borgarfjordur.  Explore the history-rich Borgarfjordur area and visit the beautiful Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls and Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring area.  Delve into Icelandic Saga folklore with a visit to Reykholt, the home of Medieval chieftain, poet and Saga author Snorri Sturluson.
Overnight in Borgarnes or surroundings. On the way to Borgarnes you will find Snorrastadir Farm Holidays is a farm in West Iceland that offers self-catering accommodation in five cottages. (no shops around). Helgugata Guesthouse is a cozy and comfortable guesthouse located in the heart of Borgarnes. Hotel Hamar 54 rooms, bar and restaurant plus a 18-holes golfcourse.

Viking Settlement – Second Highest Waterfall – Picturesque Fjord / Approximate distance:  200 km / 125 miles
An unique experience in the Borgarfjordur area is the chance to go into the very heart of a glacier with an Into the Glacier experience. Tours depart from Husafell village. Take a ride in a monster-sized vehicle up the sides of Langjokull Glacier and into a glacial ice tunnel.  Here you can learn about glaciers and how they formed in a setting with a great focus on environmental conservation and education. Borgarnes is located near the homestead of a famous Viking saga hero, Egill Skallagrimsson. You can learn more about him and the first Viking settlers in Iceland at the Settlement Museum in the town of Borgarnes. Continue via Hvalfjordur fjord, a scenic fjord where you might stop to visit Glymur, the highest waterfall in Iceland.  Then continue to Reykjavik.
Overnight in Reykjavik. The best area to stay in Reykjavik is Midborg, also known as Area 101. Miðborg is quite large, so look for a hotel north of Hallgrimskirkja. This huge church is over 70 meters high, it towers above all other buildings so it is easy to locate.
Sand Hotel by Keahotels is very well located boutique hotel with a fantastic breakfast. Another great popular in this area is Canopy by Hilton, very nice decor, great staff. Hotel Frón offers geat value for money rooms and their location gets a 9,7 score.  Another value for money place to stay is Reykjavik Residence Apartment Hotel. For those looking for the ultimate in luxury in a great location, the Black Pearl Apartment Hotel is for you. It offers bright and spacious suites with large windows, blackout curtains and heated marble floors.

Breakfast at your hotel. Drive back to Keflavik International Airport. * We recommend departing your hotel in Reykjavik 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 on your way to the city on your first day 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.
Thank you for visiting Iceland!

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Keep on discovering

The famous writer  J.R.R. Tolkien once said:
“Not all those who wander, are lost”