IN THE PICTURE OF THE COUNTRY OF ICELAND
Are you ready to explore Iceland? Whether you are looking for remote areas off the beaten track or more popular places and world-famous destinations, there are a number of options. We have put together some information about established panoramic routes in Iceland so that you can find your favorite places in Iceland. Of course, we recommend that you take the time to study them carefully.
Saudanes Lighthouse on the Trilaskagi Peninsula in northern Iceland
ARCTIC COAST WAY – THE MOST BEAUTIFUL TOUR OF THE ISLANDS
· Distance: 900 km
· Travel days: 3 – 12 days
· Combinations:Excursion around the Diamond Circle and Ring Road
· Best travel time: summer / early autumn / late spring
· Do you need 4 and 4? recommended
BYL IST ARCTIC COAST WAY?
Opportunity to get to know Iceland behind dead ends and experience life near the Arctic Circle. The new and northernmost tourist route in Iceland was opened in 2019 and Lonely Planet immediately chose it as one of the best tourist destinations in Europe.
The Panorama Route covers 900 kilometers of the northern Icelandic coast, six peninsulas and six islands.
The Arctic coast ( Norðurstrandarleið ) can be bypassed in parts or separately as a 9 to 12-day bypass tour.
OPEN THE GATE TO ICELAND’S PAST
Arctic Henge in Raufarhofn @ Visit Northern Iceland
More than 25 cultural monuments and museums await those who want to learn about Iceland’s fascinating and sometimes very dark past. You can listen to sagas and myths and visit the places where the bloodiest battle in Iceland took place, where the law ruled it out and where the last woman in Iceland was executed by law.
FEEL THE PRESENCE OF VIRGIN NATURE
Midnight Sun on the Arctic Coast @ Visit the North Island
The Arctic Coast Way offers the opportunity to explore Iceland’s extraordinary nature in all its diversity: humpback whales and Icelandic horses, dead ends in summer and aurora borealis in winter – the north has it all!
If you spend less time in the car and more time in this harsh mountain environment, you can enjoy Iceland to the fullest. Hiking, diving, horse riding, water skiing and many other outdoor adventures await you.
CREATE UNIQUE MEMORIES OF THE FUTURE
Sailing boats from North Sailing in Gusavik
Exclusive workshops and tours along the Arctic coast called Hero Experiences bring travelers and locals together: cook with Scandinavian chefs on the beach, go on city tours with local storytellers and traditional Icelandic cakes. These are just three of the many options.
Through the experiences of the heroes , travelers can get involved in everyday life, interact with the locals and learn first-hand about the problems of small villages, for example near the Arctic Circle.
Raudasandur Beach is the only beach of its kind in Iceland and is located in the Westfjords.
VESTFJARÐALEIDIN #THEWESTFJORDSWAY
- Distance: 950 km. Partly gravel, mostly asphalt roads, 25% gravel roads
- Combination: Suitable for western Iceland and the Arctic coast
- Best travel time: summer / early autumn / late spring
- Do you need 4X4 ?: Recommended in winter
WHAT JE WEST FJARD LEAD?
The Westfjords stretch along their cliffs and the coast to Greenland in the northwest. Westfjordsway is a hiking trail that travels 950 km through the rugged and dramatic landscape of the Westfjords. This route is literally full of twists and turns and will give you a taste of what Iceland has to offer off the beaten track.
ROUTE ON DRAMATIC AND EXCITING BREATHED ROADS
Vestfjarðaleiðin will take you through a landscape that no longer exists, along quiet coasts, through various tunnels, on steep dramatic mountain roads, over small charming bridges and along sandy beaches of all colors. Get ready to experience a huge and fascinating piece of Icelandic nature in its own charming and welcoming form. Road through Westfjords and Dalir District in western Iceland.
SMALL CITIES, INFINITE STORIES AND A RICH INHERITANCE
Along Vestfjarðaleiðin you will find small towns and villages and you will have the opportunity to experience the true meaning of peace and quiet. The Westfjords have a rich cultural heritage and museums and historic sites are always close by. Stories of magic, witchcraft and sorcery are just some of the many interesting museums you will find along Westphalia. Along the way, enjoy a variety of dishes and delicacies: a small waffle café in a secluded fjord and one of Iceland’s best seafood restaurants, to name a few.
WATER ON ALL SIDES
In Vestfjarðaleiðin you are always surrounded by water, all its elements and forces, whether it is the ocean in the distance, the river by the road, one of the most remarkable Icelandic waterfalls, hot lakes or just ordinary rain. The route also offers kayaking, whale watching and amazing waterfalls for those who want to get even closer to the water. Along the way, don’t miss Dinjandi Waterfall and Hellulaug Thermal Pool.
DIAMOND RING – FAR NORTH
· Distance: 250 km
· Travel days: 1 – 3 days
· Combination: Tour of the Arctic Coast and Ring Road
· Best time on the road: any! summer for hiking and whale watching; Fall in love with colorful Ásbyrgi; winter for frozen Lake Mivatn; source for solitude
· Do you need 4 and 4? Recommended from October to April.
WHAT IS A DIAMOND CIRCUIT?
Excursion on pearls – sorry, diamonds! – Northern Iceland. The name may sound pompous, but it actually comes from the diamond shape of this 250-kilometer loop. The route includes Europe’s strongest waterfall as well as Iceland’s most famous scenery: the muddy hot springs of Miwatna, the whale-friendly Skjalfandi Bay and the beautiful trails of the Jokulsarglufur Gorge.
The Circle is a D-Tour off Ring Road stretching from Lake Mivatn to the Tornes Peninsula. The trip can be managed in one day, but at least two are recommended to cover what the area has to offer.
In 2020, after many years of road construction, the road was completely paved. The aim is to keep the route open in winter, but pay attention to the weather and the condition of the road from autumn to spring; The Safe Travel website has a color map for ice and snow on the roads.
Glacial waterfalls, humpback whales and fossils
Dettifoss waterfall marks the beginning
of the Jökulsarglufur gorge.
Godafoss Waterfall is one of the most remarkable Icelandic waterfalls and a historical monument. When Iceland converted from paganism to Christianity in 1000, the head of the Icelandic parliament threw the last official totems of Scandinavian mythology into the waterfall.
Lake Miwatn is a community of about 500 people who live closer to the Highland region than anyone else. This creates a certain seasonal contrast.
Winter is snowy and often has the lowest temperatures. Summer is calm and warm, full of migratory birds.
Asbirgi birch gorge in summer. @ Visit Northern Iceland
The Jokulsarglufur gorge can easily last several days of travel, from the famous Dettifoss waterfalls to the Asbirgi tree . On the west bank of the canyon there is a popular hiking trail 33 kilometers long. For the best hiking experience, visit the Hljóðaklettar rock formations in the Vesturdalur Valley.
Husavik is probably the capital of Iceland for whale watching.
In the middle of the route is the port city of Gusavik , where the number of whale watching boats exceeds the number of boats. According to some, Husavik is the Icelandic, if not European, whale-watching capital, where humpback whales, dolphins and even blue whales swim in the wide Skjalfandi Bay.
The Diamond Circle also includes some of Iceland’s less explored areas, such as the Tornes Peninsula with sea views, birds and a fascinating fossil history due to its location “between” the boundaries of the tectonic plates.
Circuits – ROUTE NUMBER ONE
· Distance: 1322 km (820 miles)
· Travel days: minimum 7 days
· Combinations: See our list of scenic routes around Iceland on the ring road
· Best time to travel: all year round.
· Do you need 4X4? No
WHAT IS RINGSTRASS?
The famous “Ring Road” is a 1322 km (820 miles) long loop that connects most towns and villages; A road trip known for its diversity of landscapes, around many of Iceland’s most famous places.
Car rental is the best way to explore the circuit. Public transport runs all year round, but outside the summer the timetable is sporadic. Another option is to join an organized tour, which usually lasts at least seven days.
Officially marked as Route 1 on the maps, drivers must be aware of road conditions outside of the summer months. The Safe Travel website contains an up-to-date road map for road closures, snow and wind conditions and weather alerts. Find out more about driving in Iceland.
CLOCKWIDE OR CLOCKWISE?
View of Mount Erdubraid from the circuit
Travelers using Ring Road can head east or north from Reykjavik.
The southern road from Reykjavik to Egilsstadir is the more picturesque half with waterfalls and glacial lagoons visible from the road. This does not mean that this part of the country deserves more time – just that there is a lot to see and do on Ring Road. Other regions reward good detours, such as along the eastern fjords or the Sniffelsnes peninsula. Travelers who are heading for more than a week should pay attention to the picturesque Arctic coast and Westfjords Way (Vestfjarðaleiðin) .
When Icelanders go on holiday around the circuit, they usually first check the weather forecast and then head straight to the sunniest corner of the island! This is one of the ways to travel and for those who sleep in tents and caravans, of course the good weather makes the trip exceptional.
WHAT TO EXPECT – BY REGION
south
The southern part of Iceland is the flattest part of the country: the road embraces the coast, so there are few reasons to turn. This area is known mainly for its waterfalls and glacial landscape. The glaciers in the valley protrude from Iceland’s ice cap and can be visited up close in the Skaftafell area. During the summer season it is often difficult to find free accommodation between Selfoss and Hoffn, so we recommend booking well in advance.
The city of Akureyri is the largest along the Ring Road.
Ost
The road from Hefn to Egilsstadir is a winding road through the fjords. In summer, you can take Route 939 via Oxy Pass. This picturesque gravel road shortens the distance between Jupigougur and Egilsstadir by 68 km, but requires extra care. On the other hand, many travelers just confuse the main road through the east and bypass the atmospheric eastern fjords with their beautiful pieces of the Icelandic town.
North
The northern route contains the dirty hot springs in Miwatna, the cosmopolitan atmosphere of Akureyri and the coastal detours that form the basis of multi-day travel. Here, travelers are rewarded with exploring the Arctic coast and the Diamond Circle. If you drive on the ring road from September to May, be aware of the road conditions in Holtavorduheid, Oxnadalsheid and Mödrudalsørefum – these alpine passes are often closed by storms or strong winds.
Graunfossar Cascade Falls is 40 km (25 miles) from the ring road.
West
The Ring Road cuts off most of western Iceland by inland via Borgarfjördur and bypasses the wonders of the Snifellsnes Peninsula and the Alpine Westfjords. But make no mistake: there is more to this region than just a gas station and hot dogs. The roadside towns of Borgarnes, Hwammstangi and Blonduos have museums, swimming pools and restaurants to visit. Traffic on the Reykjavík-Akureyri route can be heavy, especially in July, when many Icelanders are on summer holidays.
EASTERN FJORDY – FROM FJORD to FJORD
· Distance: 200 – 400 km
· Travel days: 2 – 5 days
· Combination: ring road
· Best travel time: summer
· Requires 4 × 4: recommended from October to April
WAS IST EASTFJORD DRIVE?
Fjord-shaped coastal road from Jupivogur to Borgarfjordur Eistry. Trips can be easily adapted to time and duration; Each city has its own detour and some fjords are connected by a tunnel.
Travelers on Ring Road sometimes do not visit the eastern fjords because there are no attractions. But that is his attraction. Eastfjords are the farthest road from Reykjavik to the heart of the Icelandic town.
The route is available all year round, but as always it is important to monitor the winter weather and the condition of the road. The Safe Travel website includes a road map to alert you to ice, snow, and weather.
EASTERN CITIES AND MUNICIPALITIES
The town of Seidisfjordur, where the only international ferry arrives in Iceland.
If Icelandic villages were judged by the beauty of their ports, Jupivogur would be a victorious place. The village was once a regional shopping center and the 18th-century wooden houses overlook a natural bay where small fishing boats arrive and depart.
Breidalsvik officially has 139 inhabitants. But everyone seems to be spending time outside! In summer it is a lively village with a popular brewery and a public swimming pool with a hot water boiler.
One of the many pleasant sections of the circuit is the driveway along the Stöðvarfjörður fjord , around the village of its name. The place is famous for its museums and art, including a collection of Peter’s stones, housed in a private house.
The only city in Iceland where it is appropriate to speak French is Faskrudsfjördur , once the center of French seafaring. They are long gone, but the appetite for croissants and francophone pride remain.
Do you need a car mechanic? Chemical cleaning? Reyðarfjörður is a city at a crossroads and a regional center with 1,300 inhabitants. Above the city are a World War II barracks and a museum dedicated to this historic British base.
Eskifjörður is a fishing village with views of Mount Holmatindur. On the outskirts of the city is the Helgustadir mine, where valuable crystals of Icelandic plantain were once mined and exported.
Nescaupstadur is a popular place for visitors to the Eastfjord. The main street faces the sea, because the city itself is built on a hill. There are two (!) Water slides in the public swimming pool and there is also a knitwear shop in the nearby local bakery. Nearby is the Pascahellir Cave .
Seidisfjordur is reached via a mountain pass with beautiful views. But some people arrive by boat: the only passenger ferry connecting Iceland with Europe stops here. Seidisfjördur, known for its art festivals and residences, is a city that has re-emerged as a place where bohemians and tourists meet at the bar.
Since 2021, the road to Borgarfjördur Eistri has been fully paved. In summer, from June to August, visitors come to a dead end in Hafnarholm and to the beautiful hiking trails around the Stórurð landmark. Winter is quiet and dark – the time of aurora borealis.
SNIPHELLSNESS PENINSULA – ICELAND TWO WORDS
- Distance: 260 km from Borgarnes
- Travel days: can be covered in 1 day, 2-3 days or more recommended
- Kombinace: Westfjords Way & Ring Road
- Best time to travel: all year round
- Do you need 4 × 4 ?: No, except F570 (open in summer)
WHAT IS THE WAY TO THE SNIPHELLSNESS PENINSULA?
Snifellsnes is a long and narrow peninsula stretching from Iceland to the North Atlantic in the west. The name means the Snow Mountain Peninsula in reference to the iconic Snyfellsjokudl ice stratovolcano, which rises from the sea on the edge of the peninsula and is shrouded in mythical stories from the present and the past.
Snaefellsnes offers dramatic landscapes and examples of most of Iceland’s natural wonders, and is therefore often referred to as “Iceland in Miniature” or “Iceland in a Nutshell”.
MYSTERIOUS MOUNTAINS, BLACK CHURCHES AND WATERFALLS WITH YOU!
You can take them home, but of course only in photos and memories. The lonely “church hill” Kirkjufell , rising from the sea as a backdrop for the Kirkjufellfoss waterfall, is probably the G1 site for photography in Iceland. The Black Church of Budir and the columnar basalt cliffs of Arnarstap and Gerduberg are close rivals.
You will find new motifs on each corner and Game of Thrones enthusiasts will get to know some of the most amazing filming locations north of the Wall.
BIRD’S PARADISE – MOST BIRDS WATCHING IN ICELAND
Nature lovers should not leave Snæfellsnes outside of their visit to Iceland. Almost every bird trip in Iceland will include a peninsula where 60 of Iceland’s 77 bird species nest and other migrants stop on their way between Europe and Greenland or Canada. Here you will find large flocks of seabirds, such as arctic terns, northern grouse and woodcock, various water and wading birds, as well as the greatest chance to see the rare sea eagle in Iceland.
WHALES AND SEALS CROWN THE SHORE A BREAKFAST
Seals are common on Itri Tung beach
The migration route of large cetaceans, such as blue whales and whales, runs along the western edge of the peninsula, so make sure you don’t see a strike or an accident there. In addition, there are common seals and gray seals on the coast, and visiting seals on Itri Tung Beach is probably the first thing you will see.
Add a boat trip to Flatey Island from the beautiful town of Stikischolmur , a whale watching trip from Olafsvik or a cul-de-sac from Grundarfjördur harbor and take you into the world of seabirds and sea mammals in Breidafjor, where it is located.
ICELANDIC GEOLOGICAL PACKAGE OF ICELAND
Snifelnes’ unique geological history attracts geologists and their students from around the world, where they can take a closer look at places that reveal Iceland’s unique geological history.
The geological history of Snyfellsnes covers the most important period in the geological history of Iceland. The basis is formed by piles of basalt layers from the Pliocene, when 10-6 million years ago the climate was mild. Later, during the Ice Age, glaciers cut through valleys and fjords, and a narrow peninsula remained between the two large ice currents. The new and obscure volcanism began under the ice 1-2 million years ago and created heaps of hyaloclastis and, more recently, lava and beautiful skin and spray craters.
SNÆFELLSJÖKULL NATIONAL PARK – FROM THE COAST TO THE TOP OF THE MOUNTAIN AND ON THE LAND
Stunning views of Sniffelsjokudl National Park
Snæfellsjökull National Park covers the entire western tip of the Snæfellsjökull peninsula and encloses the beautiful Snæfellsjökull. The sleeping volcano rises 1446 m directly from the coast, so it’s an impressive view. The varied coastline with lava fields, craters, sea piles, black and gold beaches and bird cliffs invites to many scenic stops. The beach with black pebbles in Jupalonsandur, the bird cliff скеúfubjarg, the sea chimneys in Londrangar, the Saxhall crater and the golden beach in Skardswick are among the most popular, as are the Swertuloft and Mallarrif lighthouses .
Watnschellir Cave in Snyfelsjökudl National Park
A snowshoe trip or a glacier hike to the top of Snifellsjökudl will reward you with wonderful views on a clear day. An excursion to the cave in the Watnshellir lava tube opens up the colorful underground world of frozen lava at the foot of the volcano. Maybe your journey will take you to the entrance to the center of the earth from the story of Jules Verne.
The cultural history of the national park includes the modest remains of grassy houses and medieval peat and stone fishing stations, which are slowly merging with nature. The exhibitions at the Mallarfi Park Visitor Center and the Sjómannagarðurinn Maritime Museum in Hellissandur offer an insight into the history of Icelandic fishing culture since the Middle Ages.
FISHING VILLAGES AND AGRICULTURAL LAND – REAL ICELAND
Stikkisholmur is one of the most picturesque cities in Iceland
The area is home to 5,000 people, mostly in fishing villages on the north side, some as old as Iceland, where communities depend on the rich fishing grounds in Breidafjördur Bay. Five municipalities on the peninsula are Iceland’s leaders in terms of sustainability through EarthCheck certification. The south side of the peninsula is characterized by small farms and iconic sandy beaches that stretch for miles.
A good example of the cultural prosperity in this area is The Freezer , a professional theater and cultural center in the small town of Reef with only 120 people, which hosts daily performances during the summer.
Sniffelsnes has quality restaurants and cafés serving local seafood and farm products. For curious and brave sharks in the museum At Bjarnarhofn Farm you can taste a traditional traditional fermented shark and learn all about history and the process.
Whether you prefer sleeping in a lava field tent, a hostel in a renovated fish factory or a luxury hotel, you will find plenty of great places to stay.
CLOSED BUT CLOSED – HOW CAN YOU GET THERE?
If you are traveling alone, a car is the best choice because public transport is limited. However, various tour operators offer bus tours for 1-3 days as well as private and individual tours.
Snyfelsnes County is a detour from Ring Road 54 to 1 west of Reykjavik. Continue clockwise or counterclockwise along № 574, which goes around the summit through Sniffelsjökudl National Park. For those traveling 4 × 4, in the summer months there is the possibility of the F570 road through the Jokulhals mountain pass.
Before driving to Snifelsnes, check the weather and the condition of the road.
The landscape of Thingvellir National Park creates beautiful and rare landscapes
WHAT IS THE GOLDEN CIRCLE IN ICELAND?
The Golden Circle is the most famous of all the scenic routes in Iceland, combining breathtaking attractions and historically significant places in one sightseeing circuit.
The proximity of Reykjavik and the airport area, as well as a short drive between the attractions, allows everyone to include a tour of the Golden Ring in their itinerary.
Whether you spend just a day or a few days exploring the Golden Ring, you will experience some of the most amazing geological wonders Iceland has to offer!
GOLD RING AND ITS HEADS
- Distance: approx. 250 km from Reykjavik and back
- Travel days: 1-3 days
- Combinations: South Coast , Snyfellsnes , Ring Road
- Best travel time: all year round
- Are 4 and 4 needed ?: no
GOLFOSS
Ohromující vodopád Gullfoss @ Páll Jökull Pétursson
In summer, the Gullfoss waterfall dazzles an average of more than 2,000 people a day. The popularity and appeal of the “Golden Waterfall” lies in its unusual cascading shape and the fact that it is extremely photogenic from every angle and at any time of the year.
An average of 100,000 liters of glacial water from the Hvita River dives into the Gulfossglyufur Canyon every 31 meters. Because the splashes of cold water do not stop for tourists, we recommend raincoats!
Gullfoss is open all year round. In winter, the paths to the lower viewing platforms are sometimes closed due to ice and snow. Check out the travel map and conditions at safetravel.is
GEJZIR
Strokkur hits the hot water fountains @ Ívar Sæland
No less popular, but much warmer is the water in the geothermal zone in Haukadalur. This is one of the few places on earth where you can observe active geysers up close.
You can explore the famous Grand Geyser, Strokkur Geyser and various types of hot springs, steam openings and sulfur mud containers.
While the Great Geyser is barely beating, the smaller Strokkur Geyser is beating with its boiling water fountains up to a height of 30 meters every 8-10 minutes. Get your camera ready and stay in the wind of the geyser!
TINGWELLIER NATIONAL PARK ISLAND
Thingvellir is a historical and geological treasure of Iceland
Þingvellir is a historical and geological treasure of Iceland shrouded in picturesque beauty.
The Icelandic Alingi Parliament sat here from the settlement in 930 AD until 1789, and on June 17, 1944, Iceland declared independence from Denmark on this landmark. Thingvellir has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2004.
Tectonic plates are scattered in Thingvellir, cracks can be seen in the Almannaya Gorge, as well as in Silfry, where you can dive and swim between continents.
Iceland’s largest natural lake, Tingwalavatn, and Oxaraphos Waterfall add scenic beauty to Tingvellir National Park.
Glacier ice The largest European glacier Vatnajökudl
EAST COAST
· Distance: approx. 480 km from Lorlákshöfn to Höfn
· Travel days: 1-7 days
· Combination: Golden Ring, Ring Road Tour
· Best travel time: all year / summer for hiking
· 4 and 4 are mandatory ?: No.
WHAT IS THE SOUTH COAST?
An amazing mix of waterfalls, glaciers and famous black sand beaches, the south coast of Iceland is home to Europe’s largest glacier and the gateway to some of Iceland’s most picturesque pedestrian streets.
If you don’t have your own car, many travel agencies offer South Coast tours starting in Reykjavik, from 12-hour tours to 3-day trips.
We recommend not to hurry – there are so many places to enjoy, hiking trails and attractions to photograph!
Glaciers, WATERFALLS AND BEACHES – WATER FOR EVERYTHING
Jokulsarlon – near the glacier
Hiking along the waterfalls, kayaking among the glaciers, hiking on the glacier, visiting the ice caves, walking on the black sand beaches – all this is possible in the south.
Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss or Gljufrabúi – some of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls are just a short walk from the ring road and are easily accessible.
Boat and kayak trips take place between small glaciers in the Fialsarlon and Jokulsarlon glacial lagoons. The largest European glacier Vatnajökudl will introduce you.
TOURISM AND NATIONAL PARKS TOURISM
Colorful country Landmannalaugar
Kvernufoss waterfall
Vatnajökudl National Park includes Skaftafell, which offers magnificent views of the glacier in the southeast and Jokulsarglufur in the north, as well as the entire Vatnajökudl glacier, including Iceland’s highest peak, Hvannadalshnyukur. There are breathtakingly beautiful pedestrian zones nearby.
Other walking areas near the south coast include the colorful Landmannalaugar mountains with the famous Laugavegur walk leading to the green Torsmark valleys and further to Skogar on the coast. All have their special
advantages and a large selection of hiking trails for every level of difficulty.
Lava, lobster and lighthouses
Fossilized trolls on Reinisfjar beach in Vic
Explore the mysterious caves of Gelli
The towns along the south coast offer many interesting cultural ideas and culinary treasures.
You can start exploring them by visiting the South Coast Lighthouse.
At Þórlákshöfn, Eyrarbakki and Stokkseyri, a visit to three different lighthouses can be combined with exciting outdoor entertainment, delicious seafood and walks along the coast.
Further along the south coast, other museums and exhibitions on earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, elves, trolls, ghosts and maritime history offer visitors a dramatic life of the past, dominated by nature.
Lobster lovers – a small lobster eaten only by the tails, waiting for a culinary feast.
Prepared as soup, hamburger or just with garlic butter – there are many delicious variations and restaurants on the south coast will ensure that you will never go hungry. Hefn, the capital of Icelandic lobster, presents the grand finale of a trip to the south coast!