West and South Iceland

Day 1: Arrival

Upon landing in Iceland, collect your rental car at the airport. Embark on your journey from the airport, traversing the otherworldly lava fields that define the Reykjanes Peninsula. This unique, volcanic landscape, adorned with moss-covered rocks and framed by distant mountains, serves as a mesmerizing gateway to Iceland's natural marvels. Your first night will be spent in Reykjavík, the country's vibrant capital.

Driving: Approx 50 km (31 miles)

Accommodation: Reykjavík.

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Day 2: Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Drive northwest from Reykjavík towards the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Drive around the Snæfellsnes Peninsula immerses you in a landscape brimming with geological diversity, mythical aura, and captivating coastal vistas. This region, often referred to as "Iceland in Miniature," distils much of the nation’s essence into one easily accessible peninsula.

Your first stop after the town of Borgarnes is Gerðuberg Basalt Columns, an impressive wall of beautifully formed hexagonal basalt columns. Then visit Ytri Tunga Beach, known for its golden sands and seals lounging on the rocks. Continue to the small coastal villages of Arnarstapi and Hellnar. Here, a scenic walking trail connects the two villages, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Don’t miss the iconic Gatklettur Arch Rock near Arnarstapi.

Driving further, you enter Snæfellsjökull National Park, dominated by the glacier capped Snæfellsjökull volcano. The park offers various hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and access to caves like Vatnshellir, a remarkable lava tube that delves deep into the volcanic underworld. Make a stop at Djúpalónssandur, a beautiful black pebble beach surrounded by dark cliffs and dramatic sea stacks. The beach is also historically significant, once home to one of the most prolific fishing villages on the peninsula. No tour of Snæfellsnes would be complete without visiting Kirkjufell, a beautifully symmetrical mountain near Grundarfjörður, famed as one of the most photographed mountains in Iceland. Its distinct shape and the nearby Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall make it a photographer’s dream. Conclude your day in Stykkishólmur.

Driving: Approx 310 km (193 miles)

Accommodation: Stykkishólmur area.

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Day 3: Borgarfjörður

Drive south from Stykkishólmur towards Borgarfjörður, an area known for its rich sagas and natural wonders. When arriving in Borgarfjörður your first destination is Reykholt. Once the home of Snorri Sturluson, a medieval historian, poet, and politician, Reykholt offers a deep dive into the saga age. Visit Snorri's pool, an early geothermal pool, and the museum dedicated to his life and works. Continue to Deildartunguhver, Europe's most powerful hot spring. The sheer volume of boiling water produced here is awe-inspiring. A short drive brings you to the unique Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls. Hraunfossar, known as the 'Lava Waterfalls,' is a stunning series of cascades emerging from beneath a lava field, creating a breathtaking view. Nearby, Barnafoss, or 'Children's Falls,' has its own tragic saga that adds a mystical aura to its rushing blue waters.

Your day concludes in Borgarnes, a coastal town with a beautiful view over the fjord. Borgarnes offers a charming small-town atmosphere with cafes, museums, and access to nearby outdoor activities like hiking and birdwatching. Immerse yourself in the rich saga history at the Settlement Centre in Borgarnes, which provides insight into Iceland's early history and the sagas that have shaped Icelandic culture.

Driving: Approx 220 km (137 miles)

Accommodation: Borgarfjörður area.

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Day 4: Golden Circle

Drive south towards Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Þingvellir is a place of significant historical, cultural, and geological importance, as it was the site of the world’s oldest recorded legislative parliament (Alþingi) and lies on the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Explore the walking trails, Almannagjá fissure, and Öxarárfoss waterfall. Continue your journey to the Geysir geothermal area in Haukadalur valley. Although the Great Geysir is mostly dormant, its neighbour Strokkur erupts every few minutes, shooting boiling water up to 30 meters into the air. The surrounding area is dotted with hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles.

A short drive from Geysir brings you to Gullfoss, one of Iceland's most stunning waterfalls. Gullfoss, or 'Golden Falls,' cascades down a deep gorge, creating a spectacular display of nature's power. There are several viewpoints to appreciate the waterfall's beauty from different angles. The day ends in the bustling town of Selfoss that offers a variety of services, shops, restaurants, and accommodations, making it a convenient base for exploring nearby natural attractions.

Driving: Approx 230 km (142 miles)

Accommodation: Hveragerði/Selfoss area.

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Day 5: South Shore

Driving along Iceland's south coast is an expedition through some of the most breathtaking scenery the island has to offer. Your journey begins with a visit to Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where the water cascades over a cliff into a serene pool below, allowing visitors to walk behind the falls for a unique perspective. Continuing along the coast, Skógafoss awaits with its powerful water plummeting down from a height, creating a mist that dances in the light.

Further along the coast, Dyrhólaey presents a rugged promontory with panoramic views of the ocean and coastline, including the iconic arched rock that juts into the sea. Nearby, Reynisfjara beach astonishes visitors with its black sands, towering basalt columns, and the powerful waves of the North Atlantic crashing against the shore. Drive to Vík í Mýrdal, a charming village known for its picturesque church set against a backdrop of dramatic cliffs and the endless ocean. The day ends with a drive back to Selfoss.

Driving: Approx 295 km (183 miles)

Accommodation: Hveragerði/Selfoss area.

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Day 6: The Reykjanes Peninsula and the Blue Lagoon

Visit the serene Strandarkirkja Church, a beautiful coastal landmark steeped in legend. As you travel south, immerse yourself in the vibrant geothermal colours of Seltún and soak up the charm of Grindavík, with the chance to relax at the world-famous Blue Lagoon (bathing fee optional extra). Continue along Iceland’s rugged coast to the mystical Brimketill Lava Rock Pool and the bubbling Gunnuhver geothermal area, alive with steaming vents and mud pools. Marvel at the stunning cliffs of Reykjanestá, crowned by the historic Reykjanesviti Lighthouse, before walking across the Bridge Between Continents, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. End your adventure with a scenic drive through captivating lava fields, arriving in Reykjavík inspired by the natural beauty of Iceland.

Driving: Approx 200 km (124 miles)

Accommodation: Reykjavík.

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Day 7: Departure

Depart from your lodging in Reykjavík and make your way to Keflavík International Airport. Returning your rental car at Keflavík Airport marks the completion of your Icelandic adventure.

Driving: Approx 50 km (31 miles)

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