Looking to get off the beaten path in Iceland? Discover the top hidden gems in Iceland, where natural wonders like volcanic craters, geysers, glaciers, and waterfalls await your arrival.
Iceland has a wealth of lesser-known and spectacular attractions, from world-class hiking trails to legendary calderas.
Whether your trip brings the heat with volcano tours or keeps it cool with glacier hikes, make time for the hidden side of Iceland. You'll want to see top attractions, such as the Blue Lagoon, northern lights, and Golden Circle, but nothing beats the experience of heading off the beaten path to discover all the unique sights Iceland has to offer.
Keep reading to learn all about Iceland's best-kept secrets and the top recommendations our local guides are willing to share with you.
Key Takeaways
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Local-approved hidden gems include Viknaslodir Hiking Trails, Grotta, and Flatey Island.
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Some of the top things to do in Iceland include hiking to waterfalls, exploring fjords, visiting local villages, and soaking in natural springs.
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Many off-the-beaten-path places to visit in Iceland are easiest to reach by rental car or guided tour.
25. Graenihryggur Ridge
If you're seeking adventure off the beaten path in Iceland, Graenihryggur Ridge is a can't-miss sight. This ridge is famous for its blue-green color and is only accessible during the summer months.
Although it's not very beginner-friendly, seasoned hikers might appreciate the challenge. The destination offers stunning views of volcanic rock and greenery, unlike anywhere else.
The ridge isn't too far from Landmannalaugar, and a hiking tour of the Graenihryggur Ridge makes transportation easy.
24. Huldujokull Glacier
You can find this stunning glacier in Thakgil Canyon, with spots where you can see vast mountains, waterfalls, glaciers, and greenery all at once. You'll get the best views following the Huldujokull Hike Loop.
Give yourself plenty of time for this trip. Although the hiking terrain isn't too rocky, it's long with many elevation gains. We recommend going counterclockwise so the glacier is in your line of sight instead of behind you.
You can access this hike from the Thakgil Campsite, which isn't a far drive from the village of Vik along Kerlingardalsvegur Road.
23. Kolugljufur Canyon
Kolugljufur Gorge is a spectacular spot full of waterfalls and a few viewing platforms where you can soak in all the beauty. There are so many falls to see that it almost doesn't seem real — which only adds to the magic of this Icelandic hidden gem.
Kolugljufur is one of the best attractions off the Ring Road, less than 4 miles (6 kilometers) away, so you don't need to travel far to admire this treasure.
22. Sigoldugljufur Canyon
Sigoldugljufur, or the "Valley of Tears," is named after its abundance of waterfalls. Although this destination is becoming more popular, it's still not too busy for travelers who want to get off the beaten path.
It's located in the central Highlands and is only accessible during the summer. Prepare for this day trip with plenty of gas, water, food, snacks, and good hiking boots because there isn't anywhere nearby to stock up on necessities.
21. Siglufjordur Village
Siglufjordur is a cute little town that used to be the world capital of herring fishing. It's found at the northernmost tip of the Trollaskagi Peninsula (close to Hofsos Pool). Siglufjordur is nestled in a small fjord, surrounded by mountains on three sides.
It's remote and overlooked, but some of Iceland's best-hidden gems, such as the Herring Era Museum, are here. The town's history comes to life through some beautiful buildings on the town's main street, and the Herring Era Museum is one of the best museums in Iceland.
This town is secluded, making you feel like you're in a remote place at the end of the world despite only being a 48-mile (77-kilometer) drive from Akureyri. Siglufjordur accommodations could be worth booking to enjoy the peace and serenity.
20. Grotta Nature Reserve
Believe it or not, it's possible to get off the beaten path in Reykjavik. The capital city still has a few under-explored corners left. One hidden gem on the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula, located in the western part of Reykjavik, is the picturesque nature reserve known as Grotta.
Grotta is a nature reserve with world-class bird watching and a picturesque lighthouse only accessible during low tide. It's the best spot in town to watch the sunset as it shimmers over Faxafloi Bay or to see the northern lights within city limits.
There's even a tiny, artificial hot pool among the rocks that you can dip your feet in called Kvika Foot Bath. It can often be a little tricky to find, but it's near one of the little huts you'll pass by as you drive onto the peninsula.
From May 1st to June 30th every year, there's no access to the Grotta Lighthouse due to nesting season.
However, if the weather is good, the nearby beach on the other side of the peninsula can be a great spot to watch the sunset or have a picnic. Grotta is one of the locals' favorites among all the hidden gems in Reykjavik.
19. Seljavallalaug Pool
The Seljavallalaug Pool in South Iceland isn't as remote as it used to be, but we'd still consider it a hidden gem.
Many tourists drive along the South Coast because there aren't any bus tours to this pool. Your reward for this drive is taking a well-earned dip between a mountain, glacier, and volcano — you can't do that in many other places.
The Seljavallalaug is one of the oldest pools in Iceland and is still in pretty good shape. It even has a changing room (though there are no showers).
There's no fee, so just bring your swimsuit and enjoy the quietness of nature. We don't want to spoil this hidden beauty, so be sure to bring your respect and care as well.
The pool is situated between the famous Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss Waterfall. You'll need to drive off the beaten path and then walk 0.7 miles (1.2 kilometers) to reach this treasure. Don't worry — the experience is well worth the detour.
18. Fridheimar Tomato Farm
Fridheimar is an organic tomato farm and restaurant with a prime location along the popular Golden Circle Route. This family-run restaurant is very popular, so book a table beforehand, preferably with at least a few weeks' notice.
They reduce waste and use scratched tomatoes that supermarkets would reject to make spectacular tomato soup. Enjoy lunch in the greenhouse, which will keep you warm on cold winter days, and dine nestled among tomatoes on the vine.
17. Gljufrabui Waterfall
Many people miss our next hidden gem in South Iceland, which is located next to Seljalandsfoss Waterfall. Gljufrabui Waterfall is only an 820-yard (750-meter) walk away from Seljalandsfoss, so you have no excuse not to visit if you're already in the area.
To see the Gljufrabui Waterfall, you need to walk between a couple of rocks that form a little cave entrance, and then you'll be able to stand right underneath the waterfall. Bring a raincoat; you'll get wet.
16. Hvitserkur Rock
Hvitserkur stands by itself just outside the Hunafjordur Fjord in Northwest Iceland. It's only a slight detour from the main Ring Road between the villages of Reykir and Blonduos.
To reach this hidden gem, drive Road 711 from the Ring Road (turn left if you're coming from Reykjavik, and turn right if you're coming from Akureyri). There aren't any tours going there, so you'll have to drive yourself to get off the beaten path in Iceland.
For those coming in the winter months, Hvitserkur can make the perfect foreground for some shots of the northern lights if you're lucky enough to get a great show. Those moments make Hvitserkur one of our favorite secret spots in Iceland.
15. Fjadrargljufur Canyon
Another stunning South Iceland hidden gem near Ring Road is Fjadrargljufur Canyon. Some tourists refer to it as "Sweet Ass Mossy Canyon," which is a pretty accurate description.
However, it's now more known for its appearance in the hit HBO show, "Game of Thrones" and the Justin Bieber music video for "I'll Show You." We can't guarantee dragons if you stop by for a visit, but it's a fun activity to visit "Game of Thrones" filming locations.
The direct translation of Fjadrargljufur is "Feather River Canyon," and it's one of Iceland's most picturesque canyons. Take your time hiking up and enjoying the stunning scenery, but make sure you stick to the path. It's equally stunning during wintertime.
Photo by Robert Bye
To reach it, drive towards Kirkjubaejarklaustur Village on Iceland's southern coast (use your drive time to work on your pronunciation of Kirkjubaejarklaustur!).
Driving from Reykjavik, the canyon will be on your left-hand side just before reaching Kirkjubaejarklaustur (which translates to "Church Town Convent").
This village is a great base for exploring many stunning attractions. For example, partake in exciting outings like this tour of Lakagigar Craters, the site of one of the biggest volcanic eruptions in Iceland's history.
14. Hofsos Swimming Pool
This tiny town on the Trollaskagi Peninsula, next to Akureyri in North Iceland, has Iceland's most gorgeous infinity pool on its hillside. It boasts a stunning view over the fjord.
This is not necessarily one of the most secret places in Iceland, but if you plan to explore North Iceland during your trip, it makes the perfect end to a long day of traveling.
Complete a day of adventuring by bathing under the sunset from the infinity pool, or watch in awe as the northern lights dance over the fjord.
13. Vesturdalur Valley
Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Michal Klajban. No edits made.
But if you're traveling along the Diamond Circle Route, visit the Raudholar and Hljodaklettar Rock Formations in Vesturdalur Valley. These incredible locations are some of the more beautiful hidden places in Iceland.
Hljodaklettar ("Sound Rocks") are basalt columns of every shape and size, twisting and turning in every conceivable direction. Raudholar ("Red Hills") are colorful hills of black and yellow, but mainly fiery red. There are a few places in Iceland where you'll find colors as vivid as the landscape here.
Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Mickaël Delcey
They're located on Route 85 near Husavik Village, one of the best places in Iceland for whale-watching tours, and 10 miles (16 kilometers) from Asbyrgi Canyon.
Tours from Akureyri can also take you close to Hljodaklettar. However, the best way to see Vesturdalur Valley is by getting off the beaten track and driving yourself in a rental car.
12. Thjorsardalur Valley
Thjorsardalur Valley is full of gorgeous waterfalls, and tourists often miss it. The waterfall inside Gjain Valley is one of our favorites (and the valley itself is pretty spectacular, too).
Haifoss Waterfall is Iceland's third-highest waterfall at 400 feet (122 meters) tall, and the smaller Granni Waterfall is just a stone's throw away. Both are beautiful, hidden gems in South Iceland.
We also recommend checking out Hjalparfoss Waterfall (its name translates to "Help's Falls"), which is located a little further down the valley. Lastly, don't miss out on Thjofafoss Waterfall, which translates to "Thief Waterfall." It's on the other side of Burfell Mountain and is well worth a visit.
These waterfalls are all in the same area and can easily be reached on Routes 32 and 26. They're all about a 74-mile (119-kilometer) drive from Reykjavik.
11. Glymur Waterfall
When the Hvalfjordur Tunnel opened back in 1998, it shortened the distance from Reykjavik to Borgarnes by approximately one hour. Since people no longer have to drive Hvalfjordur Fjord ("Whale Fjord"), we'd consider a drive along the fjord off the beaten path in Iceland.
At the bottom of the Hvalfjordur Fjord, you'll find a trail leading to Iceland's second-tallest waterfall, Glymur, which is 650 feet (198 meters) high. It was once the tallest in Iceland until Morsarfoss Waterfall surpassed it in 2011.
The hike is beautiful and relatively easy, leading you through green mossy cliffs towards the Glymur Waterfall. It only takes about 2-3 hours one way. You can even book hiking tours to Glymur Waterfall with a transfer from Reykjavik for easier access to this hidden gem.
10. Raudasandur Beach
Iceland is very famous for its black sandy beaches. However, you can also find white beaches and even the beautiful Raudasandur Red Beach in the Westfjords.
The color can fool your eyes; it may seem white, orange, yellow, or very red, depending on the natural light. This apparent color change makes Raudasandur Beach one of the most magical places in Iceland.
There's nothing there besides the sand, so if you want to go to a tranquil beach — no vendors or shops to distract you — Raudasandur delivers. You can go for a walk all by yourself, making it a fantastic, non-touristy thing to do in Iceland.
9. Latrabjarg Cliff
If 6 miles (10 kilometers) of sand at Raudasandur Beach isn't enough for you, travel a little further and go to Latrabjarg Cliff, where thousands of puffins reside in the summer months. It's the largest seabird cliff in Iceland, with beauty that gives you a break from your troubles.
The best way to get to Latrabjarg Cliffs and Raudasandur Beach is to either drive all of the Westfjords or take the Baldur Ferry from the town of Stykkisholmur to Brjanslaekur Port and drive from there. The area is usually inaccessible during wintertime, so it's best to include it in self-guided summer driving tours.
8. Kjolur Road
When the highland roads are open in the summertime, it's a good idea to drive the Kjolur Road (also known as Route 35), a top hidden gem in Iceland. It's only accessible with a four-wheel drive vehicle.
Kjolur Road connects the north and the south of the country, running between Langjokull and Hofsjokull Glacier. The highlands in between are sandy but full of hot springs, some of which you can bathe in, and provide some excellent hiking trails.
7. Flatey Island
A visit to Flatey Island is like stepping back in time to the 1900s. Its name translates to "Flat Island" and is the easiest name to say of anywhere you'll visit on your Iceland trip.
This small island in Breidafjordur Bay has seasonal habitation. Flatey gets a little busy in the summer, especially with photographers ("a little busy" means a few dozen people or maybe 100). But in winter, only six people reside there.
Surprisingly, concerts are common on the island, with an event happening almost every week of the summer. It's probably the most famous unknown place in Iceland.
There's one road on the island, but no cars are allowed — it's only 1.2 miles (2 kilometers) long and a few yards wide. To get there, take the Ferry Baldur from Stykkisholmur on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula or from Brjanslaekur Port in the Westfjords.
If you're driving around Iceland, you can take your car onto the ferry, and they'll deliver your vehicle at the other end of the bay (either in Stykkisholmur or Brjanslaekur).
From Stykkisholmur, it's 1.5 hours on the ferry, and from Brjanslaekur, it's just a 1-hour journey. You can also add a visit to Flatey Island to your Snaefellsnes Peninsula tours as a day trip from Stykkisholmur.
6. Holuhraun Lava Field
The Holuhraun Lava Field is a new addition to the Icelandic landscape. A volcanic eruption between August 2014 and February 2015 created this beautiful area.
Here, you'll be able to feel the newly formed rough lava and see nature in its most raw form. Holuhraun is easily one of the more unique things to do in Iceland and should not be missed by anyone who wants the true Iceland experience.
The lava field is so much off the beaten track that you'll need a powerful four-wheel drive vehicle to reach it. It's simplest to visit on a guided tour, like the Super Jeep tour to Askja Caldera and Holuhraun Lava Field, departing from Lake Myvatn.
5. Stakkholtsgja Canyon
Stakkholtsgja Canyon is close to Thorsmork. Don't miss the easy, family-friendly hike to the waterfall deep inside it (but bring snacks — it takes around 2 hours).
At about 330 feet (100 meters) from the bottom of the canyon, the trail splits into two parts, and you'll need to wade through a river to reach the waterfall at the end.
Exploring any canyon in Iceland is always a treat, but this one is one of the best for the variety and photo opportunities. File under: "Another one of the most beautiful hidden places in Iceland."
4. Hvammsvik Hot Springs
While the Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon are some of the most popular geothermal experiences around Iceland's Capital Region, we recommend something new for you to check out.
Hvammsvik Hot Springs opened in 2021 and is still quite the hidden gem among luxurious bathing locations in Iceland.
This place is a must-stop when driving the Hvalfjordur Fjord, and it's perfectly relaxing after hiking the nearby Glymur Waterfall. There's a great on-site cafe where you can enjoy a well-earned treat while relaxing.
It's a 45-minute drive away from the city center. You can visit with this relaxing half-day bathing tour, which includes a transfer from Reykjavik, or get Hvammsvik Hot Springs admission separately and drive yourself there.
3. Hornstrandir Nature Reserve
One of the top hidden gems in Iceland is Hornstrandir. It's probably in the most inaccessible part of Iceland — the northernmost tip of the Westfjords. This is about as off the beaten path in Iceland as it gets.
No roads lead there, so you can either hike for a week from the end of the road (near Krossnes Farm) or take a boat from the town of Isafjordur.
There are no shops or villages, and cell service is unreliable, so pack any supplies you may need if you intend to stay there for a while.
Hornstrandir is home to Iceland's biggest arctic fox colony, so try to spot some gorgeous foxes in their natural habitat. Remote wildlife experiences like this are one of the unique things to do in Iceland that leave a lasting impression long after you have returned home.
This 6-day tour around Hornstrandir will help you make the most of this stunning region. It's truly a great way to explore one of Iceland's hidden gems.
2. Thakgil Campground
Thakgil ("Roof Canyon") is a gorgeous camping ground and a top hidden gem in South Iceland. This area is not far from the village of Vik.
The area is very sheltered from the wind, and there's even a cave to dine inside. You'll need to drive yourself to get there, but the journey is certainly worth the effort.
If you're heading east, turn left after about 3.7 miles (6 kilometers) after leaving Vik. Drive along that road for approximately 8.7 miles (14 kilometers), past the abandoned film set, until you reach a lush green flat valley surrounded by rugged mountains and small rivers.
1. Viknaslodir Hiking Trails
Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Michal Klajban
Deep in East Iceland, the area around Borgarfjordur Eystri contains one of Iceland's best hiking areas, Viknaslodir ("Trails of the Inlets"). We recommend a 5- to 10-day hike around the area to visit this hidden gem.
The hike from Borgarfjordur Eystri down to Seydisfjordur Town is usually done in 4 days and is 34 miles (55 kilometers) in length. This is the same length as Iceland's most popular hiking trail, Laugavegur.
Along the way, you'll see stunning mountain views, valleys, and fjords. Perhaps the most spectacular attraction in the area is Storurd, a gorgeous blue lake covered with giant rock boulders, which is best visited during this hiking tour.
Traveling to the Hidden Gems of Iceland
Be sure to figure out how you're going to navigate your itinerary before your trip starts. Renting good four-wheel drive vehicles is the best way to reach most of those hidden places in Iceland.
They're often tucked away and only accessible via unpaved gravel or mountain roads. Be sure to get full insurance coverage options (especially gravel insurance) in case of an emergency.
A final tip is to always focus on driving safely, wearing your seatbelt, and keeping an eye on the Icelandic weather forecast and road accessibility. When in doubt, book vacation packages or multi-day tours that include transportation so you don't need to worry about the drive.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hidden Gems in Iceland
Below are some of the most common questions we hear from those who want to explore Iceland off the beaten path.
What is the most unknown place in Iceland?
Some of the most unknown places to visit in Iceland include Hvammsvik Hot Springs, which only opened a few years ago, and Flatey Island, which only has six full-time residents.
What gemstones is Iceland known for?
If you're looking for gemstones in Iceland, you might find aventurine, Iceland spar, or basalt, which is a smooth rock found near lava fields.
What is the coolest thing in Iceland?
The coolest thing in Iceland is the mix of landscapes and natural formations you can find all on the same island. For example, when visiting Huldujokull Glacier, you can see mountains, waterfalls, glaciers, and more from one place.
What should you wear while visiting Iceland?
Be sure to pack proper athletic wear for your adventurous trip, sturdy hiking boots, and rain gear. Jeans and other casual clothing aren't the best for hiking or exploring hidden gems in Iceland since they stay wet and cold around waterfalls or in rainy weather.
Explore Iceland With Expert Recommendations
Are you ready to visit the top hidden gems in Iceland? Booking your flights is just the first step to discovering scenic views and creating priceless memories.
Browse top-rated Iceland tours to get inspiration for your trip and discover Iceland off the beaten path.
We hope you've found some gems to fill out your itinerary with and add to your bucket list. Have you experienced any of these attractions or discovered any of your own hidden gems? Let us know in the comments below!
