Southwest Iceland Travel Guide
The area is home to the country’s top attractions, including the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, the Golden Circle driving route, and the many sites of Reykjavik, Iceland’s vibrant capital city. Therefore, travelers can choose from many Southwest Iceland tours, including Blue Lagoon tours, Golden Circle tours, and Reykjavik tours.
Southwest Iceland features a harmonious blend of nature's marvels, from steaming geothermal areas, tectonic rifts, and vast lava fields to cascading waterfalls and luxurious spas. It’s a relatively small area, perfect for travelers who want to check off big bucket list attractions and see diverse natural landscapes without driving for hours.
Where is Southwest Iceland?
Southwest Iceland lies in the southwestern corner of Iceland, encompassing the capital city of Reykjavik, extending to the Reykjanes Peninsula, and taking in the famed Golden Circle route. This area showcases Iceland's diverse geological wonders in close proximity. It’s also rich in Viking history, with museums and landmarks offering a glimpse into the past.
Southwest Iceland isn’t an official region of Iceland but more a general area full of famous attractions and hidden gems. It includes the Capital Region, the Southern Peninsula (Reykjanes Peninsula), and part of the Southern Region.
Travelers can start exploring Southwest Iceland as soon as they arrive. Keflavik International Airport is in Southwest Iceland and the ideal location to discover the sites of the Rekjanes Peninsula before heading onward to Reykjavik and other Southwest Iceland hotspots.
Pick up a rental car from Keflavik Airport or choose another convenient transfer option to take you to Reykjavik, the perfect base for exploring Southwest Iceland.
Highlights of Southwest Iceland
Southwest Iceland is rich in contrasts, where natural splendors and cultural landmarks coexist harmoniously.
The famed Golden Circle, an unmissable route, treats visitors to the majesty of Thingvellir National Park, the ferocity of the Geysir geothermal area, and the awe of Gullfoss waterfall.
The Blue Lagoon is a world-famous bathing facility in Southwest Iceland. It promises the ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation amidst a moon-like volcanic landscape.
But beyond these iconic destinations, the region also harbors lesser-known treasures, from the stunning turquoise waters of Kerid crater lake to Reykjanesviti, Iceland’s oldest lighthouse, and quaint coastal towns with stories untold.
Whether it's the high notes of its most celebrated attractions or the quiet charm of its hidden corners, Southwest Iceland promises a journey of discovery at every turn.
Reykjavik Attractions
Reykjavik, the world's northernmost capital, stands as a vibrant hub amidst the natural wonders of Southwest Iceland. This cosmopolitan city pulsates with modernist architecture, eclectic street art, and a burgeoning food scene. It has a very walkable city center, making it ideal for going on Reykjavik walking tours.
Not only is it the gateway to the Southwest’s natural attractions, but Reykjavik itself boasts must-see sites. The impressive Hallgrimskirkja church dominates the skyline, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains from its tower. With its shimmering glass facade, the Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre mirrors the country’s geologic wonders and is a testament to Iceland's contemporary design ethos.
Reykjavik’s numerous museums delve deep into Viking history and Icelandic sagas, allowing visitors to glimpse the nation's storied past. While many people journey to Southwest Iceland for its natural beauty, Reykjavik ensures they leave with a profound appreciation for its culture and urban charm.
The Golden Circle
Winding its way through the heart of Southwest Iceland, the Golden Circle epitomizes the country's stunning natural and historical wonders. Just a short drive from Reykjavik, this iconic route unveils a trio of legendary attractions.
Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, chronicles Iceland's tectonic marvels and ancient parliamentary history. The rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates is visible here, and it’s the only place you can walk between the continents.
The Geysir geothermal area tantalizes with its boiling mud pits and the powerful eruptions of the Strokkur geyser, providing a vivid display of the Earth's raw energy.
Completing this trio is the thunderous Gullfoss waterfall, cascading fiercely into a deep canyon, its misty spray often catching sunlight to create shimmering rainbows. Interspersed between these mainstays are quaint villages and lesser-known spots, making the Golden Circle an indispensable excursion for any traveler to Southwest Iceland.
The Reykjanes Peninsula
Situated in the southwest corner of Iceland, the Reykjanes Peninsula is a region where the forces of nature vividly showcase their might. Just moments from Keflavik International Airport, this rugged landscape offers travelers an immediate immersion into Iceland's geothermal wonders. There are a lot of things to do on the Reykjanes peninsula and enough activities to take a day or two to enjoy it.
Here, the Bridge Between Continents symbolically links the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates with a footbridge. Close by, the steaming geothermal fields like Gunnuhver remind visitors of the power lurking just beneath the earth's surface.
With its therapeutic milky-blue waters, the Blue Lagoon beckons those seeking relaxation amidst a lava landscape. Coastal highlights include Reykjanesviti, the country’s oldest lighthouse, while the Viking World museum delves deep into the region’s rich Norse history.
A journey through the Reykjanes Peninsula seamlessly blends raw nature, history, and modern attractions, marking it as a must-visit in Southwest Iceland.
Hot Spring Bathing in Southwest Iceland
Southwest Iceland's geothermal bathing facilities aren't limited to the iconic Blue Lagoon. The region is brimming with bathing spots that range from luxurious modern spas to traditional Icelandic pools.
The Sky Lagoon spa offers a breathtaking infinity-edge experience overlooking the Atlantic, while the Secret Lagoon geothermal pool in Fludir invites bathers to a serene setting surrounded by natural beauty.
Laugarvatn, nestled on the shores of a namesake lake, lets visitors revel in geothermal steam baths created by the lake's hot springs.
In Reykjavik, locals and visitors flock to the family-friendly Laugardalslaug swimming pool complex, which boasts an array of pools and hot tubs. It also has a kids’ pool and waterslide. Alternatively, the Sundhollin swimming pool offers an authentic Icelandic bathing experience in the city center.
For those looking for a beach experience with a twist, the Nautholsvik geothermal beach in Reykjavik is the place to be. Combining golden sands with geothermally heated waters, it offers visitors a unique chance to enjoy the beach even during cooler weather. With steaming hot tubs and a sea pool where warm geothermal water meets the cold Atlantic, Nautholsvik provides a truly Icelandic beach experience.
Each of these geothermal bathing spots captures the essence of Iceland's cherished bathing culture, offering alternatives for relaxation and rejuvenation in Southwest Iceland.
Hidden Gems in Southwest Iceland
While Southwest Iceland is renowned for its famed attractions, the hidden gems scattered throughout the region often leave the most lasting impressions on intrepid travelers.
Among these is the vibrant Kerid crater, a volcanic lake with a striking palette of deep turquoise water contrasted against ruddy-red crater walls. But the wonders don't stop there. Just off the beaten path, check out the Skalholt historical site, once Iceland's spiritual and political epicenter.
There’s also the serene Reykjadalur valley, where a hike rewards visitors with hot streams perfect for a natural soak amidst lush greenery. Nearby, the town of Hveragerdi boasts geothermal parks and the chance to bake bread using the Earth’s heat. Though slightly overshadowed by their famous counterparts, these lesser-known spots encapsulate the authentic charm and diversity of Southwest Iceland.
Activities in Southwest Iceland
Beyond its breathtaking landscapes and geothermal spas, Southwest Iceland offers adrenaline-pumping and unique activities for the adventurous traveler.
There are many horse riding tours across the area’s rugged terrains that introduce visitors to the Icelandic horse. This hardy breed has a unique gait known as the "tolt," offering a smooth riding experience.
Snorkeling in the Silfra fissure allows those drawn to crystal-clear waters to float between two continents. Thrillseekers might opt for a snowmobiling excursion on the vast, icy expanse of the Langjokull glacier. Or, journey into the magma chamber of a dormant volcano with a tour of Thrihnukagigur and enjoy the mesmerizing array of colors.
Helicopter tours offer an aerial perspective of Reykjavik's cityscape and the sprawling landscapes beyond, often revealing hidden valleys and waterfalls less accessible by land.
For those seeking a cultural twist, attending a traditional Icelandic music concert or choosing from one of the area’s many food and drink tours can round off an unforgettable Southwest Iceland experience.
Southwest Iceland Tours and Packages
One of the best ways to ensure you see the best of Southwest Iceland is to book day tours, multi-day tours, or vacation packages that cover the area’s must-visit attractions.
This 11-hour tour from Reykjavik includes the Golden Circle attractions, Kerid crater, and the Blue Lagoon, with entry tickets included, allowing travelers to enjoy several bucket list sites in a single day.
Adventurous travelers keen to discover the Golden Circle sites, plus try some of Southwest Iceland's exciting activities, could book a discount bundle tour. For example, see the Golden Circle, the Langjokull ice tunnel, and the Thrihnukagigur volcano magma chamber over three days, with Reykjavik as your base.
Those with longer to explore may wish to extend their Southwest Iceland sightseeing further along the South Coast. A 4-day northern lights winter vacation package including ice caving and the Blue Lagoon is an excellent choice for winter travelers.
Or, enjoy the ultimate freedom and flexibility with a 5-day self-drive tour that covers the Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon, and the breathtaking sights of the South Coast, including Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.
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