Exploring South & West Iceland at Leisure

Upon arrival at Keflavík Airport, your self-drive car will be waiting for you at the airport. If you arrive early in the day, you have the option to upgrade and visit the Blue Lagoon (this is optional and not included). 

After checking into your accommodation, explore Laugavegur, Reykjavík’s main street, where you can enjoy its diverse shops and cozy cafes.

Overnight stay in Reykjavík.

Pick up your rental car this morning and embark on a scenic drive to the historic Borgarfjörður region in western Iceland. This area boasts stunning natural attractions, including the Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls, which cascade over a lava field, and Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring. Consider adding optional activities such as exploring the manmade ice tunnel, Into the Glacier, or relaxing at Krauma, the new geothermal baths near Deildartunguhver. For a dose of Icelandic history, visit the Icelandic Settlement Centre in Borgarnes.

Overnight stay in the Borgarnes area.

Driving distance: approximately 196 km / 121 mi.

Depart from Borgarnes and head to Snæfellsjökull National Park on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Your scenic drive will take you to highlights such as Dritvík Cove, the striking bird cliffs of Lóndrangar, and the charming coastal villages of Hellnar and Arnarstapi. Experience a taste of Icelandic tradition by trying out the “lifting stones” on Djúpalónssandur Beach, just as fishermen did in days gone by. 

Return for the night in the Borgarnes area.

Driving distance: approximately 323 km / 200 mi.

Embark on a journey through Iceland’s iconic “Golden Circle,” exploring some of the country’s most renowned natural wonders. Begin with a visit to Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its striking geology, historical significance, and stunning landscapes. Continue to the Kerið crater, a dramatic volcanic formation featuring a vibrant blue lake at its base. After reaching your accommodation for the night, you may be treated to the mesmerizing northern lights, conditions permitting.*

Spend the night in the Selfoss area.

*Please note that northern lights sightings are dependent on weather conditions and are not guaranteed.

Driving distance: approximately 139 km / 86 mi..

Finish exploring the Golden Circle route today. Head to the Haukadalur geothermal area, where you’ll witness the Strokkur geyser, known for its frequent and dramatic eruptions, showcasing Iceland’s dynamic geothermal activity. Next, drive to the stunning Gullfoss waterfall, renowned for its majestic two-tiered cascade, which is particularly spectacular in the winter. This iconic waterfall is a highlight in Iceland’s array of breathtaking natural wonders.

Spend the night in the Selfoss area.

Driving distance: approximately 143 km / 88 mi.

Today is yours to craft your own adventure. Revisit any Golden Circle sights you might have missed or explore new attractions such as the Faxi waterfall or the delightful Friðheimar farm. At Friðheimar, you can tour the tomato greenhouses, shop for local products, and savor a tomato-based lunch (advance booking required). If you’re interested in optional activities, consider snorkeling in Þingvellir National Park.

Spend another night in the Selfoss area.

Begin your day with a visit to Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where you can walk behind the cascading mist. Continue to the equally stunning Skógafoss, renowned for its winter beauty and the trail that runs alongside it up the hillside. Nearby, the Skógar Folk Museum offers a glimpse into Icelandic history with its turf farm and historical exhibits. Proceed towards Vík, where you can explore the dramatic black sand beaches of the region. Finally, head to your accommodation for the night.

*Caution is advised when visiting Reynisfjara beach near Vík due to powerful rogue waves and strong undertow currents. Always keep a safe distance from the water’s edge and heed the warning signs.

Spend the night in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area.

Driving distance approx. 203 km / 126 mi.

Spend your day exploring Skaftafell, a stunning part of Vatnajökull National Park, known for its breathtaking landscapes. If you’re up for a bit of adventure, consider joining an optional guided glacier hike or ice climbing excursion*. After your time in Skaftafell, head to the spectacular Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, one of Iceland’s most renowned attractions. Marvel at the maze of floating icebergs and keep an eye out for seals swimming among them. Next, visit Diamond Beach, where shimmering chunks of ice contrast strikingly against the black sand. You may also wish to explore the nearby smaller lagoon, Fjallsárlón.

*Please note that glacier excursions and ice climbing should only be undertaken with a licensed and experienced guide.

Spend the night in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area.

Driving distance approx. 249 km / 154 mi.

Explore the volcanic Reykjanes Peninsula today, beginning with the extensive geothermal area of Krýsuvík, located along a fissure zone created by the separation of the mid-Atlantic ridge. Discover the fascinating Seltún geothermal field, known for its colorful volcanic fumaroles, bubbling mud pots, and hot springs shaped over millennia. Nearby, visit Kleifarvatn, the third-largest lake in southern Iceland, offering picturesque views. Continue to the renowned Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa set amidst dramatic lava formations, providing a unique winter experience (advance booking required). Alternatively, you can choose to head straight to Reykjavik, bypassing the Reykjanes Peninsula sights.

Spend the night in Reykjavik.

Driving distance approx. 341 km / 211 mi.

As your Iceland adventure comes to a close, consider visiting the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa to unwind in the warm mineral waters before heading to the airport (optional and not included).

Your self-drive or chauffeured car will be returned at the airport.