A road trip to Iceland is always a good idea; some periods just require slightly different preparation than others. For instance, in winter, when there is a lot of snow and slippery conditions, it is recommended to travel in a 4×4 vehicle. In summer and fall, smaller “regular” vehicles can be used to travel this route. The weather can be very changeable (even in summer). One moment you are still in the sun; the next, you are in a thick fog, but that’s what makes it all even more exciting!

Iceland Road Trip: The Route

This road trip to Iceland is especially great for first-time visitors. The route takes you along the famous Golden Circle, past the waterfalls on the south coast, and to the less touristy Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Many other travelers skip the latter, which is unfortunate. This peninsula is sometimes referred to as a miniature Iceland. Many beautiful natural features include hot springs, waterfalls, and lava fields.

Blue Lagoon – Reykjavik

It is a good idea to pick up a rental car as soon as you arrive at the airport. This will save you the expensive bus ride to Reykjavik and allow you to start your road trip right away. Reykjavik is only about an hour’s drive away, but it would be a shame not to make a stop along the way. However, the nearby village of Grindavik is also an excellent place to recharge after your flight. The village pool has been recently renovated, and in addition to the pool, there is a hot tub and steam bath. A big plus is that it is much quieter and cheaper! You can even take a dip in the Blue Lagoon, a hot spring located only 20 minutes from the airport.

Once you’ve had a relaxing time, get back in the car and head back to Reykjavik. If you arrive early, it’s time to head out into the city. It’s not big, so you can see all the sights of Reykjavik in an hour or two.

Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Use the morning to explore the city. Note, however, that the sun rises late in winter and only gets light after 9:00. In summer, on the other hand, the sun (almost) never sets. Then get in the car and set your navigator (Google Maps is convenient and doesn’t cost extra) to Landbrotalaug. Landbrotalaug is located on the Snaefellsnes peninsula, which is a microcosm of Iceland. It is a place where you can see fantastic natural phenomena without many tourists.

If you stay two nights, you can see the peninsula clearly. Stop at:

• Landbrotalaug (hot spring where you can swim in two different pools (free))
• Itri Tunga (beach where you can see seals)
• Búðakirkja (beautiful black church overlooking the sea)
• Öxl (an observatory with a sad history).
• Arnarstapi (an old fishing village with nice excursions)

Geysir

Geysir is the place where the geyser got its name, i.e. the hot water that erupts from time to time. The “Geysir” itself is unfortunately no longer operational. In the past, people used to throw in a lot of detergents to make the water rise even more, and it has now completely settled out.

Fortunately, there are several geysers around, including “Strokul”. It is impressive that it sprays just about every 5-10 minutes. If it’s windy, try to stay to the right side of the water, as you may be covered with hot water before you know it.

Waterfalls

It’s time to explore the south coast! Iceland is the land of many waterfalls. Start at nearby Urriðafoss and then continue on to Seljalandsfoss. This famous waterfall can already be seen from the main road, and the closer you get, the more impressive it becomes. You can go all the way here and also walk around the back. From this waterfall, you can also continue towards Gljufrabui. If you walk through the narrow rocks, you will soon get to the next water show.

Have you ever been to Iceland? Share your experience with us in the comments below!