Epic 2-Week Self-Drive Tour of the Ring Road of Iceland & the Westfjords

On day two, visit some of the best-known natural phenomena in Iceland on the Golden Circle.

The first stop of the Golden Circle is the Thingvellir National Park. It is right between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates drift apart. Interestingly, you can walk in this rift valley and cross two continental plates. 

Thingvellir also played a massive role in Iceland's heritage, being the original site of the world's longest-running, ongoing representative parliament. It is where the country converted to Christianity in 1000 AD and where it declared independence from Denmark in 1944.

There is plenty to see as you walk around this UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you are adventurous, you can go for an exhilarating snorkel at Silfra. The fissure boasts crystal-clear waters, allowing you to take beautiful underwater photos. Participants in the optional snorkeling excursion eed to be comfortable in the water and be able to swim.

Take note that Silfra’s temperature can be frigid. Make sure to wear a dry suit before dipping into the glacial waters.

The beautiful geothermal valley of Haukadalur is next. Here, you can see the geysers Strokkur and Geysir, among other steaming hot springs. While the more famous Geysir is mainly inactive now, Strokkur erupts roughly every five to 10 minutes to heights of over 66 feet (20 meters).

The final stop on the Golden Circle tour is one of the most popular attractions in Iceland, the mighty Gullfoss waterfall. A pathway takes you to the water's edge, where you can get a real sense of the intense natural power of this 105-foot (32-meter) tall falls.

From Gullfoss, you can go on an optional snowmobile tour on the nearby Langjokull glacier. An experienced guide will ensure you have all the necessary safety gear. You’ll then head to the glacier, where you’ll ride a snowmobile to reach the top of Langjokull.

If you don’t feel like joining a snowmobile tour, you can opt to ride an Icelandic horse, which is an essential Icelandic experience. 

The Kerid volcanic crater lake is also well worth a visit. Approximately 3,000 years old, the Kerid crater is only around half the age of most of Iceland’s volcanic calderas. 

Its iron deposits are relatively fresh compared to older craters. In turn, the color of Kerid’s slopes is red instead of the usual volcanic black. Enjoy the dazzling colors of the red-and-orange lava rock and the azure waters of the deep lake’s center. 

Take a lot of photos before spending the night in Southwest Iceland.

On today's road trip, head to the South Coast and visit the majestic and mesmerizing Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls.

The Seljalandsfoss waterfall has an impressive drop of 200 feet (60 meters) and unique natural features that continue to attract locals and tourists. It features a pathway that stretches around it. You'll walk toward a wide cavern with a pathway, allowing you to encircle the waterfall during summer fully.

Meanwhile, the Skogafoss waterfall has its own appeal and beauty. Apart from its drop of 197 feet (60 meters) and width of 82 feet (25 meters), the waterfall is rich in folklore. 

It is believed that Thrasi Thorolfsson, one of the first Viking settlers in Iceland, hid a treasure chest near the waterfall before he died in 900 AD. Folklore states that the chest was filled with gold and that he buried it in a cave behind the Skogafoss waterfall.

After visiting the two epic waterfalls, you'll see the Solheimajokull glacier. Here, you can go glacier hiking and ice climbing or take an exhilarating snowmobile tour.

Solheimajokull is an outlet glacier from the Myrdalsjokull ice cap. It measures about five miles (eight kilometers) long and over a mile (two kilometers) wide. It's also one of the most accessible glaciers if you're coming from Reykjavik.

Next, you'll drive about 19 miles (31 kilometers) toward the village of Vik. Along the coast near Vik are the black volcanic coastline and the dramatic Dyrholaey peninsula and Reynisdrangar rock formations. This area also has a large puffin colony during summer.
Be careful near this beach, as the waves and currents are powerful and unpredictable.

More sights as you drive ahead include the magnificent Myrdalsjokull glacier. Here, you can squeeze in a tour of the Katla ice cave, a magical attraction on the ice cap.

Another stop along the way to Vik is the quaint, historic village of Kirkjubaejarklaustur. The village is filled with stories about superstition, heresy, and vengeance. Folklore states that Systrastapi, or the "Sister's Rock," a rock hill attraction in the village, is where two nuns executed for selling their souls to the devil were buried.

After another eventful day, you'll spend the night in South Iceland.

Spend day four amid the beautiful vistas of the Skaftafell Nature Reserve within the Vatnajokull National Park. The place is known for its natural beauty, which offers a different vibe. Its rich flora grows between the glaciers and sands, creating a contrasting scenery.

If you enjoy hiking, you'll find many trails in Skaftafell tailored for all abilities. One of the trails leads to the beautiful Svartifoss waterfall, which cascades down unique hexagonal basalt columns.

You may also opt for an exciting glacier hike on this day on Skaftafellsjokull. Sitting in Skaftafell, the Skaftafellsjokull glacier tongue spurts off the Vatnajokull ice cap. 

The hiking trail is about five miles (eight kilometers) long. It also goes up 1,280 feet (390 meters) to the Svartifoss waterfall.

However, don't spend all day here, as the stunning Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon is the next stop. The lagoon features icebergs that break from a glacier tongue and float serenely towards the ocean.

You can enjoy this magnificent sight much closer through an optional boat ride that will take you right amongst the icebergs. You can also choose between an amphibious vessel or a little zodiac for your ride.

Be sure to take photos of icebergs that can be taller than several stories. Also, marvel at their coloration, which comes with a mix of white and dyed electric blue. You'll also notice some black streaks of ash resulting from eruptions from centuries ago.

If you see any seals, whistle, and they may come closer to investigate the noise. They are often as curious about you as you are about them. 

Don't forget to look at Diamond Beach, just by the ocean next to the lagoon. Interestingly, some of the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon's icebergs wash up on the shore of Diamond Beach.

Chunks of ice in all shapes and sizes decorate the shoreline like a string of beautiful jewels. In addition, these icebergs create a beautiful contrast with the beach's volcanic black sand, making for excellent photo opportunities.

After a day of exploring these natural wonders, you'll spend the night in a cozy accommodation in Southeast Iceland.

Today, you'll experience rural Iceland in all its glory, visiting the idyllic villages, breathtaking fjords, and verdant fields of the east coast.

The east coast, or the Eastfjords, is a 75-mile (120-kilometer) coastline. It stretches from Berufjordur in the south to the fishing village of Borgarfjörður Eystri in the north.

Moreover, the Eastfjords covers an area of 8,773 square miles (22,721 square kilometers). You'll see waterfalls on hillsides and fantastic panoramic views on your journey.

The area is home to some of the most incredible wildlife in Iceland, like puffins, reindeer, foxes, and seals. During the drive, the Eastfjords will take you on an up-and-down ride over the mountains as you explore one after another.

Each mountain and every stop is stunning and has its unique charm. 

You'll notice many cliffs surrounding the narrow fjords. These cliffs are home to some of Iceland's most beautiful towns and fishing villages.

If you're looking for a hiking spot, check out Borgarfjordur Eystri fjord. Known for its natural beauty, Borgarfjordur Eystri has many hiking routes, including the mountain ring and the trail leading to "The Giant Boulders."

Moreover, Borgarfjordur Eystri is a famous bird-watching place. You'll see many puffins around the area, where about 10,000 pairs nest every summer.

Alternatively, you can go to Papey Island, where large colonies of puffins live. Here, you'll also find remnants of the old settlement, such as a church, a weather station, and a lighthouse.

Another must-see village rich in history is Faskrudsfjordur, nestled in the middle of the Eastfjords. Faskrudsfjordur is a small village with a population of 700. French fishermen first settled in the area, and their legacy remains alive in the form of hospitals, houses, and a harbor they built.

In the evening, you'll come to the town of Egilsstadir, near Lake Lagarfljot. Legends say that the lake hides a monster beneath its peaceful surface. 

Considered the capital of East Iceland, Egilsstadir has all the essential services like shops, restaurants, and petrol stations. It also has a few museums, like the East Iceland Heritage Museum, where you can learn about East Iceland's culture and society.

You can then relax at the Vok Baths, East Iceland's largest spa, to cap off an adventurous day. It features two pools on the same level as Lake Urridavatn. It also has hot pools, a cold tunnel, and an on-site sauna.

After an energizing bath, you'll spend the night in East Iceland.

On day six, you'll visit Lake Myvatn. The lake is serene and beautiful, and its surroundings are dramatic and unique. Since there's a lot to see, it's recommended that you prioritize the hot spring cave of Grjotagja, the Dimmuborgir lava fields (known as 'the Dark Fortress'), and the nature baths.

Grjotagja is a small lava cave near Lake Myvatn. Because the cave is small, it isn't easy to spot at times. However, the cave has a geothermal hot spring inside, which made Grjotagja one of Iceland's hidden gems.

Bathing inside the lava cave is no longer allowed. Volcanic eruptions from 1975 to 1984 have caused the waters' temperature to rise and reach boiling point. Though the spring has slowly cooled down, it tends to heat rapidly again.

Meanwhile, the Dimmuborgir lava fields were formed after an eruption around 2,300 years ago. You'll see large stacks of rocks, caves, and caverns around the area. These were formed by bubbles of intense steam that came with the eruption.

Exploring the Dimmuborgir lava fields is like going through a medieval castle. You'll encounter rock formations that serve as rising towers and hidden chambers.

Next, you'll head to the Myvatn Nature Baths, a set of steam baths and geothermally heated pools. Since it opened its doors in 2004, the place has evolved into a worthy northern equivalent of the famous Blue Lagoon Spa from the southwest of Iceland.

The heated pools surround a large lagoon with temperatures ranging from 100 to 104 F (38 to 40 C). The water contains different minerals that help people with skin and respiratory problems.

Next, a drive through the Jokulsargljufur part of Vatnajokull National Park to visit the impressive Dettifoss waterfall is also highly recommended. Fed by the glacier river Jokulsa a Fjolluma, Dettifoss is arguably the most powerful waterfall in Europe.

It boasts an average water flow of 6,186 cubic feet (193 meters cubed) per second. Moreover, it measures 330 feet (100 meters) wide and drops 150 feet (45 meters).

Another sight to behold is the mud pits at Krafla, a caldera that is part of the Krafla volcanic system.

After exploring these geothermal spots, you can join a whale-watching tour at the village of Husavik, about 43 miles (70 kilometers) from Krafla. Renowned as the whale-watching capital of Europe, Husavik is home to different whale species led by the humpback whales that appear throughout summer.

Upgrade this tour to include a puffin-watching segment if you're up for more animal adventures. 

After you have finished your activities, you'll spend the night in North Iceland.

Day eight is the beginning of your drive to the breathtaking remote Westfjords of Iceland.

The westernmost part of Iceland, the Westfjords offer untouched beauty and natural attractions. It covers an area of about 8,600 square miles (22,270 square kilometers), stretching to the mainland's northwest portion.

Sights along the way include Vatnsdalsholar, a cluster of hills across the mouth of Vatnsdalur Valley. You'll also see the Borgarvirki natural fortress, about 27 miles (43 kilometers) from Vatnsdalsholar. It's a volcanic plug on the Vatnsnes Peninsula that stands 580 feet (177 meters) above sea level. 

As you examine Borgarvirki, you'll notice its columnar shape, which prompted the Vikings to convert it into a fortress.

You'll then drive 10.5 miles (17 kilometers) to the Hvitserkur monolith. Also called the "Troll of Northwest Iceland" because of its shape, the Hvitserkur monolith is a basalt rock stack protruding from Hunafloi Bay. It measures 49 feet (15 meters) tall and serves as a nesting ground for fulmars, seagulls, and shags.

With several hours to spare, drive to the Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft Museum in Holmavik. It features two floors filled with items that tell the history of witchcraft in Iceland, particularly during the 17th century.

You'll also see unique-looking creatures like the Tilberi, the milk-sucking demons. The museum also houses the only ritualistic stone ever found in Iceland that dates back to Viking times.

Another exciting stop to consider is the Sorcerer's Cottage in Bjarnarfjordur, only 16 miles (25 kilometers) from Holmavik. It features three connected houses made of turf, driftwood, and rocks. The cottages will give you an idea about the living conditions and habitation of sorcerers and tenant farmers during the 17th century.

Also, consider soaking in the natural hot springs at Drangsnes. The Drangsnes hot tubs feature three pools with geothermal hot water at varying temperatures.

After relaxing at the hot tubs, you'll retire in the Westfjords.

On day eleven, you'll take the Baldur ferry from Brjanslaekur across Breidafjordur bay.

The price of the ferry is included in your tour, and you can bring your car at no additional cost! Moreover, it's an excellent opportunity to get some rest from driving.

The ferry will take you to the village of Stykkisholmur on the Snaefellsnes peninsula.

Stykkisholmur is a charming fishing town famous for portraying Greenland in the movie "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty." It is steeped in folklore and history, making it worth exploring.

Stykkisholmur also has an attractive natural harbor. It's also near Breidafjordur's fertile fishing grounds that benefit the locals. 

Compared to other towns in the area, Stykkisholmur is relatively small. However, it has become a notable cultural hub over the years. 

You'll visit the Norwegian House, Snaefellsnes's regional museum. Built in 1832, the museum is also the country's oldest two-story building. The reason it's called "Norwegian" is because the wood they used to build the museum was imported from Norway.

On the first floor, you'll see rotating exhibitions and a museum shop selling sweets, handicrafts, and other local products. Meanwhile, the second floor serves as an open storage.

Alternatively, you can check Iceland's oldest weather station, built in 1845, or the Volcano Museum.

After exploring Stykkisholmur, you can visit the peninsula's other unique sights. Mount Kirkjufell, which featured in Game of Thrones, is a spectacular feature that begs to be hiked around and photographed.

The Snaefellsjokull glacier in the beautiful Snaefellsjokull National Park is a must-see attraction. For centuries, the Snaefellsjokull glacier was believed to be a source of energy and mysticism. The superstitious Icelanders claimed the glacier's rock formations were petrified trolls.

Others also say the rock formations were "hidden people's" houses.

Dritvik Cove and Djupalonssandur Beach are stops worth your time. Dritvik is a pebble beach cove, about .62 miles (1 kilometer) west of Djupalonssandur beach. It features unique lava formations and gorges.

Meanwhile, Djupalonssandur Beach has dramatic cliffs leading down to the sea. It's also the location of the ruins of a shipwreck coming from a British fishing ship from 1948. 

You'll also see four big lifting stones fishermen used to measure their strength and determine who was qualified to work on the boats.

If you still have the energy, you can see the small, charming hamlets of Arnarstapi, Hellnar, and Budir.

As another day winds down, you'll stay and spend the night in the Snaefellsnes area.

Explore West Iceland with its many natural attractions on day 13, including Deildartunguhver, the largest hot spring in Europe.

Located in Reykholtsdalur, about 58 miles (94 kilometers) from the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, the Deildartunguhver hot springs have a rapid flow rate of 380 pints (180 liters) per second.

However, the temperature of the waters can be dangerous when you get too close. They have a constant temperature of 207 F (97 C).

While in the Deildartunguhver area, visiting the Krauma Geothermal Bath & Spa is highly recommended. It's a perfect place to relax your mind and body anew before leaving Iceland the following day.

If you love botany, check out the Blechnum Spicant or "deer fern" plant scattered around the Krauma complex. Interestingly, the Blechnum Spicant grows only in the Deildartunguhver area and nowhere else in the country.

After enjoying the geothermal bath, you'll head to the captivating Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls. Hraunfossar is a series of waterfalls flowing from ledges of rocks. Incidentally, these rocks are part of the Hallmundarhraun lava field, and the waterfall pours into the Hvita river.

After spending some time in the Hraunfossar area, you'll walk nearby to see the Barnafoss waterfall. Translated "the children's falls" in English, Barnafoss is a waterfall that creates powerful rapids as it rushes through a rocky canyon.

Next, you'll drive 11 miles (18 kilometers) to Snorrastofa, the medieval research institute in Reykholt. History buffs enjoy visiting Snorrastofa, where the early settler Snorri Sturluson wrote the saga Heimskringla in the 13th century. Snorri is also famous for writing the bible of old Norse mythology, Edda.

On the way back to Reykjavik, you can join an adventurous caving tour in the Vidgelmir lava tubes. Considered to be Iceland's longest cave, Vidgelmir measures 5,200 feet (1,595 meters) long, 52 feet (15.8 meters) high, and 54 feet (16.5 meters) wide. Thankfully, the paved walkway and light installations make exploring the lava cave easy.

Another thrilling adventure is the "Inside the Volcano" tour, where you can descend into a vast, beautiful magma chamber of the Thrihnukagigur volcano. After the tour, it's recommended that you take a short break at Fossatun, a waterfall said to be guarded by a troll woman named Drifa. 

You'll then head back to Reykjavik for a well-deserved rest or to hit the restaurants and bars on your last night in Iceland.