10-Night Best of Iceland

Day 2

Accommodation

Central Waterfront Hotel - Reykjavik, Capital Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11:00am.

Included Unique Activities

Comfort Blue Lagoon Coach & Experience

Home to one of the authentic wonders of the world, Blue Lagoon Iceland is where the powers of geothermal seawater create transformational spa journeys. Indulge and bathe in the famous Blue Lagoon... The geothermal waters are rich in minerals such as silica and sulfur, and reputed to be healing for body, mind, and spirit. Included: Roundtrip transportation from your hotel; admission to the Blue Lagoon; 1 Silica mud mask; A towel, which you will return after use; and a drink of your choice. Not Included: the LAVA Restaurant. Bathing suits and extra towels can be rented on the spot. You can safely store belongings at the Blue Lagoon while bathing.

Walk with a Viking

This family-friendly tour visits the most famous landmarks in the city center, including Hallgrímskirkja Church. Your guide tells spellbinding stories of the city and Icelandic mythology. You’ll be immersed in the friendly atmosphere of Reykjavik. Enjoy a small lesson in the Icelandic native language, teaching you to talk like a Viking. You’ll discover the locals' favorite places to eat, drink, and visit. Ask as many questions as you like!  This walking tour is 2.5 miles. Highlights: Walk 2.5 miles through the city with a storytelling guide; ask questions about Iceland; visit famous landmarks in the city center; see the most popular tourist attractions; and become acquainted with the native language.

Overnight Location

Reykjavik, Capital Region

On The Map: Reykjavik is a coastal city, located in the Capital Region of Southwest Iceland. Reykjavik is reached via route 1 (the 'Ring Road') from Hofn (to the North) and Vik (to the Southeast).   Reykjavik lies on the Southern shore of Faxa Bay in Southwestern Iceland, and is well-renown as the country’s capital and largest city. Although it is one of the smallest capital cities in the world, it houses six districts, each with their own personality. With its dynamic growing atmosphere, it does not come as much of a surprise that it is often the first city travelers visit when they arrive on the beautiful Nordic island. Highly regarded as one of the cleanest and safest cities in the world, Reykjavik is a welcoming community for those looking to discover all that Iceland has to offer. Known for its vast amount of festivals, the city offers an eclectic list of celebrations including the annual Ingólfshátíô Viking Festival and the lively Winter Lights festival. For those looking to feed their hunger for natural landscapes and outdoor adventure, Reykjavik offers the Heidmork Nature Reserve and Ellidaardalur Valley, both rich in walking paths and stunning scenery. Whether you choose to wander the streets and take in the unique Icelandic culture, or escape the city to enjoy the slow pace of nature, Reykjavik is sure to leave you feeling ready to explore the rest of Iceland.

Day 3

Accommodation

Central Waterfront Hotel - Reykjavik, Capital Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11:00am.

Included Unique Activities

Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon Hot Springs Tour

You will visit all three attractions on the Golden Circle, directly from Reykjavik, with an added visit to the unique Secret Lagoon on this small group day tour. This is the perfect Icelandic experience, giving you a chance to visit waterfalls, geysers, historic sights, and soak in a natural hot spring. Discover the famous sites of Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, and the Geysir hot spring area with a great Icelandic twist and a secret stop. This usually takes 8 – 9 hours.

Fridheimar Farm Greenhouse Visit

The Fridheimar family farm, built up over 23 years by agronomist Knútur Rafn Ármann and horticulturalist Helena Hermundardóttir, is a tourist-friendly facility, known for its multiple geothermal greenhouses and its stable of Icelandic horses and summer horse shows. 

Due to the geothermal activity in Iceland, there is boiling water just beneath the surface of the ground which allows for natural hot springs, such as at Reykjadalur and the greenhouses at Fridheimar to flourish throughout the year. On your green house tour, learn about Iceland's ground-breaking agricultural techniques and enjoy delicious tomato soup and freshly baked bread. 

Included Sightseeing

Thingvellir National Park, Selfoss, Southern Region

On the Map: Thingvellir (Þingvellir) National Park sits in the municipality of Bláskógabyggð in southwestern Iceland, about 25 miles northeast of Reykjavik.

As a place of historical, cultural, and geological significance, Thingvellir is a must. The park is known for the Alþingi (Althing)—this was the site of Iceland’s parliament from the 10th to the 18th centuries. It includes the Þingvellir Church and ruins of old stone shelters. (Recently, Thingvellir has gained popularity among Game of Thrones fans due to its appearance on the fantasy epic.) The park is in a rift valley, marking the crest of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, which is the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. This valley features the Silfra fissure, known worldwide as one of the top dive sites for two main reasons: It is the only location in the world where someone can dive between two continental plates, and the underwater visibility is over 328 feet. This UNESCO World Heritage Site will inspire you with the influence of nature.

The Golden Circle, Capital Region

On the Map: The Golden Circle is a touring region in southwest Iceland. The well-loved driving route begins in Reykjavik and heads south to Selfoss, then northeast to Gullfoss Falls. The road turns west to Þingvellir National Park, finally looping back to Reykjavik in the southwest. 

The Golden Circle consists of three equally stunning locations: Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss waterfall. Þingvellir National Park is an astonishing site, steeped in history and folklore, and surrounded by unique and incredible geology. Not only was Þingvellir the first of Iceland’s three national parks to be established, but it is the only one that has the honor of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is also known for its appearance in the popular fantasy epic, Game of Thrones. The Geysir Geothermal Area, within the Haukadalur Valley, is dotted with hot pools, clay pots, and fumaroles. The hills and soil are vividly colored by minerals of the earth. It is a beautiful destination. Gullfoss, one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland, is located in a plunging, ancient valley just down the road from the Geysir Geothermal Area. This waterfall tumbles down two elevations, from an overall height of 104 feet. On a sunny day, it gives off rainbows, a truly wondrous sight.

Gullfoss Waterfall, Southern Region

On The Map: Gullfoss lies in the northeast corner of the Golden Circle in southwest Iceland. It is located right off route 35, about 109 km (68 miles) northeast of Reykjavik.

Gullfoss (translated as “Golden Waterfall”), is a powerful waterfall on the Hvítá River, fed by Iceland’s second largest glacier, the Langjökull. The water plummets 104 feet in two stages to a rugged canyon. During the winter, the view is particularly spectacular when the water freezes into waves of glistening ice. On a sunny day, visitors are treated to thousands of tiny rainbows, a natural reaction of clouds of spray from the tumbling falls. With amazing views year around, Gullfoss is a highlight!

Overnight Location

Reykjavik, Capital Region

On The Map: Reykjavik is a coastal city, located in the Capital Region of Southwest Iceland. Reykjavik is reached via route 1 (the 'Ring Road') from Hofn (to the North) and Vik (to the Southeast).   Reykjavik lies on the Southern shore of Faxa Bay in Southwestern Iceland, and is well-renown as the country’s capital and largest city. Although it is one of the smallest capital cities in the world, it houses six districts, each with their own personality. With its dynamic growing atmosphere, it does not come as much of a surprise that it is often the first city travelers visit when they arrive on the beautiful Nordic island. Highly regarded as one of the cleanest and safest cities in the world, Reykjavik is a welcoming community for those looking to discover all that Iceland has to offer. Known for its vast amount of festivals, the city offers an eclectic list of celebrations including the annual Ingólfshátíô Viking Festival and the lively Winter Lights festival. For those looking to feed their hunger for natural landscapes and outdoor adventure, Reykjavik offers the Heidmork Nature Reserve and Ellidaardalur Valley, both rich in walking paths and stunning scenery. Whether you choose to wander the streets and take in the unique Icelandic culture, or escape the city to enjoy the slow pace of nature, Reykjavik is sure to leave you feeling ready to explore the rest of Iceland.

Day 4

Accommodation

Back of Beyond Luxury - Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Western Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check out time is before 11.00am. 

Included Sightseeing

Dritvik & Djupalonssandur Beaches, Western Region

On the Map: Dritvik is a beach within Djúpalónssandur cove in the Snæfellsjökull National Park on Snæfellsnes Peninsula. It is located 124 miles northwest of Reykjavik and one of the few places where visitors can walk down to the sea along this coast.

The area was an important fishing center from 1650-1950, with fishermen and women from all over the country arriving to work seasonally. Keep a watch out—parts of a shipwreck can be seen on the beach! Dotted with a series of rocks with mysterious shapes, this area is a must-see for those visiting the Snæfellsjökull National Park.

Gatklettur, Western Region

On the Map: Gatklettur, a stunning arch rock, is located on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, 115 miles northwest of Reykjavik.

Londrangar, Western Region

On the Map: Lóndrangar, a series of basalt cliffs, is located within the Snæfellsjökull National Park on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, in western Iceland. It is 119 miles northwest of Reykjavik. 

The Lóndrangar is a pair of basalt rock pinnacles. At 246 feet and 200 feet tall, they are a grand part of the coastal view. The two giant rock formations are the remnants of a massive crater, which has now mostly eroded. Many people have climbed the two pillars, with the first ascent of the larger pillar in 1735 and the first ascent of the smaller pillar in 1938. While visitors can admire the regular population of birds year-round, the summer months offer a truly spectacular sight when the puffins arrive for their annual nesting period.

Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Western Region

On the map: 93 miles northwest of Reykjavik, the Snaefellsnes Peninsula is known for dramatic landscapes and has a breathtaking world of diversity.

Friendly towns and villages, stunning mountains, a variety of bird species nesting on treacherous cliffs, arches, and unique beaches make this area an exceptional place to visit. At its western tip, Snæfellsjökull National Park is dominated by the Snæfellsjökull Volcano. Topped by a glacier, it is the setting for Jules Verne’s’ “Journey to the Center of the Earth.” A nearby trail leads you through lava fields to black-pebble Djúpalónssandur Beach. Along with the national park, the peninsula features the Gerðuberg Basalt columns, naturally created by the nearby volcano, resembling a man-made wall. Among the small villages in the area is Stykkishólmur fishing village, where a 19th-century wood-frame Norwegian House acts as a regional museum with craft shop. With a world of things to do, and only a short drive from Reykjavik, the Snaefellsnes Peninsula is a beloved destination for Icelanders and visitors alike.

Gerduberg Basalt Columns, Western Region

On the Map: The Gerðuberg Cliffs are other-worldly basalt columns located at the beginning of Snæfellsnes Peninsula in western Iceland. They are a 69-mile drive from Reykjavik, and nothing short of magnificent.

Overnight Location

Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Western Region

On the map: 93 miles northwest of Reykjavik, the Snaefellsnes Peninsula is known for dramatic landscapes and has a breathtaking world of diversity.

Friendly towns and villages, stunning mountains, a variety of bird species nesting on treacherous cliffs, arches, and unique beaches make this area an exceptional place to visit. At its western tip, Snæfellsjökull National Park is dominated by the Snæfellsjökull Volcano. Topped by a glacier, it is the setting for Jules Verne’s’ “Journey to the Center of the Earth.” A nearby trail leads you through lava fields to black-pebble Djúpalónssandur Beach. Along with the national park, the peninsula features the Gerðuberg Basalt columns, naturally created by the nearby volcano, resembling a man-made wall. Among the small villages in the area is Stykkishólmur fishing village, where a 19th-century wood-frame Norwegian House acts as a regional museum with craft shop. With a world of things to do, and only a short drive from Reykjavik, the Snaefellsnes Peninsula is a beloved destination for Icelanders and visitors alike.

Day 5

Accommodation

Peaceful New Hotel - Laugarbakki, Northwestern Region

Check in policies:

Check in: 3pm

Check out: 11am

Included Sightseeing

Barnafoss Waterfall, Western Region

On the map: Barnafoss is a waterfall located just a few steps from the more famous Hraunfossar waterfall.

Barnafoss is a beautiful series of rapids on the Hvítá River. The river was forced through a narrow rocky chute over which a natural bridge crossed. 'Barnafoss' roughly translates as "Children's waterfall.” Legend has it that one day two boys were home alone while their parents went to church, but they got bored and decided to follow. While taking a shortcut, the boys tried crossing the falls over a natural stone bridge, they fell in, and drowned. The mother of the boys cursed the bridge and shortly after it was destroyed by an earthquake. In reality, natural bridges usually collapse over time. But it was certainly handy as a cautionary tale to children whose curiosity might get the better of them!

Hraunfossar Falls, Western Region

On The Map: Hraunfossar Falls is located in western Iceland, 20 miles off the Ring Road and 73 miles northeast of Reykjavik.

Protected since 1987, the lava falls of Hraunfossar are a series of beautiful waterfalls, formed by rivulets streaming ½ mile from the Hallmundarhraun lava fields. Formed by a group of gentle cascades, between lava rocks covered in moss, Hraunfossar is one of the most unusual waterfalls in Iceland. The falls are not tall, but they are very wide. Viewing them is pure pleasure.

Deildartunguhver Hot Spring, Western Region

Situated on a beautiful farm, Deildartunguhver is the most powerful hot spring in Europe. It has a flow rate of 50 gallons of water per second at a piping hot temperature of 200°F. The scalding water rushes from an algae-covered rocky outcrop. In addition, a fern called the “deer fern” or “hard fern” grows near Deildartunguhver. This fern grows nowhere else in Iceland. Near Deildartunguhver is Krauma Natural Geothermal Baths—we highly recommend a visit! It is just a short walk from the hot springs to Krauma and absolutely worth it. Krauma mixes the water from Deildartunguhver with cold glacial spring water to create the perfect spa for relaxation.  The spa has five different hot pools, one cold water pool, a sauna,  steam room, and a lovely relaxation area.

Overnight Location

Laugarbakki, Northwestern Region

On the Map: The village of Laugarbakki is located on the east side of Miðfjarðará River approximately 130 miles north of Reykjavik. 

The hot water from Laugarbakki's geothermal area is used to heat up houses in both Laugarbakki and neighboring Hvammstangi. Langafit handicraft center and Edda Hotel is open during the summer. The campsite and sleeping bag accommodation around Ásbyrgi community center, offer options for both groups and individual travelers. Hotel Laugarbakki is also located in the village. The road to Arnarsvatnsheiði heath lies through Laugarbakki.

Day 6

Accommodation

4-Star Lakeside Iceland Hotel - Myvatn, Northeastern Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am

Included Sightseeing

Krafla Lava Fields, Northeastern Region

On the Map: The Krafla Lava Fields lie just north of the Ring Road in northeastern Iceland, 71 miles east of Akureyri.

Krafla, an active volcanic region just north of the Ring Road, is home to a mountain, a geothermal power station, and craggy lava fields. While there are numerous sights to see in this area, the main attraction is the lava fields. A full spectrum of colors fills the magma—green colors of moss and lichen next to the scorched-earth colors of sulfur and rhyolite are amazing. The Krafla experience is something truly magnificent. 

Hverir Mud Pots, Northeastern Region

On The Map: Hverir is a geothermal area located just east of Lake Mývatn in northeastern Iceland. 

It is home to fumaroles, commonly known as natural steam vents, and boiling mud pots surrounded by sulfur crystals of mind-boggling colors. You’ll get a good sense of them on walking paths and a viewing platform. From that viewing platform you’ll have an overhead look at the fumaroles and mud pots. The mud pots are extraordinary. They are formed when water collects in the rich volcanic ash surrounding a fumarole. The boiling and bubbling mud pots create an eerie, wondrous atmosphere.

Glaumbær Farm & Museum, Northeastern Region

On the Map: Glaumbær Farm & Museum is located in northeastern Iceland, 60 miles west of Akureyri. 

Opened in 1952, the Glaumbær Museum is inside turf-roofed farm buildings. Discover traditional Icelandic homes dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Take a walk through hobbit-like rooms connected by a central passageway. This perfectly preserved historical farm shows how Icelanders lived for centuries. It’s time to explore! This is one of Iceland’s secret spots. You’ll have a chance to walk a turf farm dating back to the settlement of Iceland in the 9th century. These farms were inhabited until 1947.

Godafoss Waterfall, Northeastern Region

On the map: Goðafoss is a stunning waterfall located on the river Skjálfandafljót, just off The Ring Road, in northern Iceland. 

It tumbles from a height of 39 feet, over a path that is 98 feet wide. One of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland, the name Goðafoss is roughly translated as “The Waterfall of the Gods.” It is easy to see why. An impressive sight any time of year, but in the spring, while there are still icicles adorning its sides, it’s an otherworldly place to visit. Much like many of the waterfalls in Iceland, the amount of mist created by Goðafoss, mixed with the sun, offers visitors a chance to see a rainbow stretch across its width. The famous falls are nicknamed “The beauty.” It’s a perfect description of this aquatic masterpiece.

Overnight Location

Myvatn, Northeastern Region

On The Map: Mývatn is a beautiful lake in northern Iceland, located just off of route 1 (the “ring road”) about 105 km (65 miles) south of the Arctic Circle. It is reached via route 1 from Akureyri (to the west) and from Egilsstaðir (to the southeast).

With its unique nature and rich birdlife, Mývatn is one of Europe’s greatest natural treasures. From desolate craters to bubbling mud pools and geothermal caves, the area surrounding the lake is a microcosm of all the natural curiosities that Iceland has to offer. Teeming with rare birds, gnarled lava fields, and lush pastures, it’s a beautiful area with a wide range of landscapes to explore. Because the name Mývatn often refers to the surrounding area, not just the lake, it is a popular travel destination in Iceland. With sites such as Dimmuborgir, Hverfjall and Grjotagja Cave (featured in popular HBO series Game of Thrones), the Mývatn area is a must-see for those traveling to the northern side of the island.

Day 7

Accommodation

4-Star Lakeside Iceland Hotel - Myvatn, Northeastern Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am

Included Unique Activities

Husavik Whale Watching

Observe whales, dolphins, and sea birds in their natural habitat on this 3-hour splendid experience, immersed in the natural beauty of Skjálfandi Bay. Húsavík is a marine lover’s paradise, with an over 97% average success rate of whale sightings in the last three decades. The main focus of this tour is to spot and enjoy the presence of marine mammals. You might see curious minke whales, breaching humpbacks, playful pods of dolphins, or even blue whales—the largest mammal on earth! If you’re lucky, killer whales, fin whales, and other species might make an appearance. These amazing animals visit the Bay to feed on plentiful krill and plankton. Enjoy a smooth, safe sailing in a traditional Icelandic oak ship with great viewing decks to discover the whales’ home. Our professional and highly qualified crew will guide you throughout the tour and share their knowledge about whales, as well as fascinating stories from Skjálfandi Bay. Aside from the numerous whales that make their way to the Bay, keep an eye out for diverse birdlife. You can often see Arctic terns searching for food, Puffins diving in for a swim, and other curious seabirds hovering nearby. On the way home, treat yourself to complimentary refreshments served onboard—hot chocolate and cinnamon buns from an original family recipe!

Myvatn Nature Baths

Relax and rejuvenate in the healing waters of Myvatn Nature Baths Lagoon, Iceland’s newest geothermal spa. The lagoon forms an impressive, man-made hot spring. Altogether, the lagoon and the basin contain almost 1 million gallons of water with a temperature that ranges between 96.8 – 104°F. The characteristics of the water are unique. It contains a large number of minerals, is alkaline, and well suited for bathing. Due to this, bacteria and vegetation do not thrive here. Most geothermal water in Iceland contains sulfur, but these baths have a higher concentration than others. This mineral is known to have a positive effect on asthma and other respiratory diseases. Also, many of the trace elements in the water are considered to be good for the skin. Be sure to remove your jewelry, though. Sulfur can tarnish brass and silver. 

Included Sightseeing

Dettifoss Waterfall, Northeastern Region

On the map: Dettifoss is located in Vatnajökull National Park, northeastern Iceland, and reached from the Ring Road.

Known as “the Beast,” Dettifoss is a behemoth of a waterfall, guaranteed to take your breath away. Loosely translated as “The Collapsing Waterfall”, Dettifoss is set within stark, rocky surroundings, featuring sheer drops on either side. The waters of Dettifoss plummet 147 feet to the craggy shores below. To put this into perspective, this is about the height of The Statue of Liberty. As you might expect for a waterfall this large, Dettifoss carries gallons, 96,500 gallons to be exact, of water across its bow every single second. It’s truly difficult to comprehend! Due to its sheer force, mist from the falls is visible from several miles away, making this waterfall a must-see in northern Iceland.

Grjotagja Cave, Northeastern Region

On The Map: Grjótagjá is an extraordinary lava cave located just east of Lake Mývatn in northern Iceland. 

This ancient cave features a beautiful natural hot spring, which is a popular bathing spot for locals. Grjótagjá gained international popularity while featured in HBO’s Game of Thrones, season three, when Jon Snow and Ygritte shared an intimate moment.

Overnight Location

Myvatn, Northeastern Region

On The Map: Mývatn is a beautiful lake in northern Iceland, located just off of route 1 (the “ring road”) about 105 km (65 miles) south of the Arctic Circle. It is reached via route 1 from Akureyri (to the west) and from Egilsstaðir (to the southeast).

With its unique nature and rich birdlife, Mývatn is one of Europe’s greatest natural treasures. From desolate craters to bubbling mud pools and geothermal caves, the area surrounding the lake is a microcosm of all the natural curiosities that Iceland has to offer. Teeming with rare birds, gnarled lava fields, and lush pastures, it’s a beautiful area with a wide range of landscapes to explore. Because the name Mývatn often refers to the surrounding area, not just the lake, it is a popular travel destination in Iceland. With sites such as Dimmuborgir, Hverfjall and Grjotagja Cave (featured in popular HBO series Game of Thrones), the Mývatn area is a must-see for those traveling to the northern side of the island.

Day 8

Accommodation

Historic Coastal Hotel - Faskrudsfjordur, Eastern Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 4:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12:00pm

Included Sightseeing

Skriduklaustur Farmstead, Eastern Region

On the Map: Skriðuklaustur is located 25 miles south of Egilsstadir town, in the upper end of Lagarfljot lake.

Built in 1939, Skriduklaustur is easily recognized, and the most famous building in the Eastfjords. This museum is the former home of the beloved Icelandic author, Gunnar Gunnarsson. Gunnarsson built this beautiful stone building in the area where he grew up. A German architect named Fritz Höger designed the house. It is 3,400 sq. ft and has two floors plus an attic. When Gunnar and his wife moved to Reykjavik nine years after completion, they gave Skriduklaustur to the Icelandic nation. The home is now a center of culture, history, and Gunnarsstofnun—the Institute of Gunnar Gunnarsson. On display are objects connected to his work, life, and times.

Hallormsstaður National Forest, Eastern Region

Hallormsstaður National Forest in East Iceland is Iceland's largest forest, covering an area of 1,830 acres, which is mostly native birch. The forest has been the site of large-scale trials and introductions of exotic species since 1905. The oldest larch grove in Hallormsstaðaskógur forest, Guttormslundur grove, dates back to 1938. It is named after Guttormur Pálsson, park ranger. The forest is a popular outdoor area in a beautifully diverse landscape. There are 11 marked trails and hiking maps.

Egilsstadir, Eastern Region

On the Map: Egilsstaðir lies on the Lagarfljót River in East Iceland. Named after the Egilsstaðir Farm, it is one of Iceland’s youngest townships. Recently built as a trade center for East Iceland, the area is still rich in wildlife and surrounding destinations where nature is queen. With numerous waterfalls in the area, there are gorgeous hiking trails leading to each cascading masterpiece, including Hengifoss, Iceland’s third highest waterfall. There are walking tours of the Highland farms, a group of individual farms just outside town and swimming in the turquoise waters of the Eyvindará River. Farther out of town there’s the Hallormsstaður National Forest—Iceland’s largest forest. Keep a watchful eye… East Iceland is the only location to spot wild reindeer. Beautiful!

Overnight Location

Faskrudsfjordur, Eastern Region

On the Map: Fáskrúðsfjörður is a small village in eastern Iceland, reached by the Ring Road. Fáskrúðsfjörður lies at the center of the Eastfjords, between the Vattarnes and Hafnarnes Peninsulas.  The village became a trading post in 1880 and, until 1935, it was the main hub for French fishermen off the coast. The town is famous for its French heritage and museum…even the village’s road signs are in French! While Fáskrúðsfjörður is unique for its French history, the surrounding landscape is reason enough to visit this small town. The calm waters of the fjord and a grassy valley, complete with arctic woodlands, makes the scenic drive from Höfn to Egilsstaðir a dream.

Day 9

Accommodation

Paradise Found Hotel - Kirkjubaejarklaustur, Southern Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am

Included Unique Activities

Amphibian Boat Iceberg Tour

Take an exciting boat trip on the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon in an amphibian boat. During the excursion, you’ll sail among the huge icebergs, reveling in the picturesque scenery of Jökulsárlón. On the boat, you’ll get to taste 1,000-year-old ice. If you’re very lucky, you might even see seals. The excursion includes an English speaking guide who explains the geology and stories of the Glacier Lagoon. 

Included Sightseeing

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Eastern Region

On the map: Jökulsárlón is a glacial lagoon, bordering Vatnajökull National Park in southeastern Iceland. 

The still, blue waters are dotted with icebergs from the surrounding Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier, part of the larger Vatnajökull Glacier. The icebergs calve from the glacier edge and then undulate toward the river’s mouth. Listening to the sounds as they move and float away is awesome. Across the road, you’ll find a beautiful black sand beach, referred to as Crystal Beach or Diamond Beach. There you’ll see ice cubes and crystals washed up from the sea, which when illuminated at dawn, sunrise, or sunset, reflect an amazing array of colors.  

Skaftafell National Park, Eastern Region

On the map: Skaftafell National Park is a wilderness area in southeast Iceland, originally established in 1967, and in 2008 became a part of the Vatnajokull National Park along with Jökulsárgljúfur National Park. This region is a lush oasis of gorgeous trails through forests, waterfalls, black sands, mountains and glaciers with Iceland’s highest peak, Hvannadalshnjukur, reaching 2,118 meters (6,950 ft).

Though it is situated between glaciers, Skaftafell is actually among the areas in Iceland that receive the least amount of snow. Precipitation usually comes with southerly wind directions that also bring a relatively warm air from the ocean. So most of the time, the precipitation is rain rather than snow. As a result, most of the hiking trails in the lowland areas of Skaftafell are clear of snow all year round.

Diamond Beach, Eastern Region

On the map: Diamond Beach lies in southern Iceland just south of Jökulsárlón Lagoon.

It is a dramatic black-sand beach, dotted with ice and crystals that have journeyed from Jökulsárlón. Some of the ice-chunks are polished by the ocean and wash ashore again, giving them their wide array of colors, from transparent to bright blue. While sunny days are the best time to see the shining “diamonds,” each day offers a beautiful view at Diamond Beach. With Jökulsárlón delivering new ice, and the ocean picking them up, every visit to this magnificent beach is unique. 

Overnight Location

Kirkjubaejarklaustur, Southern Region

On The Map: The village Kirkjubæjarklaustur, often referred to locally as just Klaustur, is a village in the south of Iceland on the Hringvegur (Road no. 1 or 'Ring Road') between Vík í Mýrdal, and Höfn. It is part of the municipality of Skaftárhreppur and has about 120 inhabitants.

Kirkjubæjarklaustur's geographical location makes it better known than other villages its size. It is the only place between Vík and Höfn which offers services, which includes a fuel station, a bank, a post office and a supermarket. Nearby tourist attractions include the Laki craters, the Eldgjá and Skaftafell, all in Vatnajökull National Park. An attraction close to the village is Kirkjugólf ("Church floor"), a natural pavement of basalt. These are basalt columns in the earth, but only the tops can be seen, and as the name suggests, they have the appearance of a paved church floor. This lava formation has similar origins to the Giant's Causeway in Ireland. All these attractions contribute to Kirkjubæjarklaustur being a popular stopping point for tourists.

Day 10

Accommodation

Extravagant Iceland Comfort - Hella, Southern Region

Check in policies:

Check in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12.00 noon. We offer free parking in front of the hotel. 

Included Sightseeing

Dyrholaey, Southern Region

On the map: Dyrhólaey is a peninsula and nature preserve in southern Iceland located just outside of Vik.

Dyrhólaey, translated as “door-hole,” was named for the massive arch the sea carved from the headlands. When the sea is calm, big boats can actually sail through this opening. While this natural hole provides a beautiful landscape, the area is also home to nesting puffins and Arctic terns, attracting visitors to its cliffs every day. The road leading to Dyrhólaey allows you to visit both the higher and lower parts of the arch. The higher part provides stunning views in all directions. To the north, you’ll see Mýrdalsjökull Glacier. To the west, the endless black coastline. The lower part features a beautiful beach that waits to be explored. 

Reynisdrangar & Reynisfjall, Southern Peninsula

On the map: The Reynisdrangar sea cliffs stand under the Reynisfjall Mountain in southern Iceland. Both are just outside Vik.

At the end of a dramatic stretch of black sand beach, you will find the towering basalt sea stacks known as Reynisdrangar. These magnificent rock formations rise 217 feet from the ocean, and stand under the Reynisfjall Mountain, providing a stunning backdrop. Reynisdrangar is home to nesting Arctic terns, fulmars, and puffins, making it a popular destination for those traveling to Vik. Legend has it that there were two trolls pulling a three-mast ship to the shore when they were caught by the sunlight at dawn and turned into stone, thus creating these beautiful cliffs.  

Vik, Southern Region

On The Map: Vik is located in the Southern Region of Iceland, reached via the Ring Road. Reykjavik is to the northwest. This remote seaside village offers a small-town experience, complete with diverse wildlife and adventurous activities. As one of the three towns located within the Katla UNESCO Global Geopark, Vik is a hub for exploring the Myradalsjökull Glacier. Although famous for its proximity to the large glacier and underlying dormant volcano, Vik has something of interest for everyone. It is an area to observe wildlife, birdwatching, and for hiking; the surrounding areas offer an authentic peek into the lives of native animals. During the summer, nesting puffins inhabit Dyrhólaey, the small peninsula with a natural arch. Throughout the winter, travelers have the opportunity to experience breathtaking northern lights. Any time of year, you can go horseback riding on black sand beaches, explore the Myradalsjökull Glacier by snowmobile, or observe Reynisdrangar Cliffs’ natural wonders.

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, Southern Region

On the map: Seljalandsfoss is a waterfall located in southern Iceland. Vik is to the southeast, and Reykjavik is to the northwest.

Seljalandsfoss is a stunning waterfall along Iceland’s southern coast, fed by melting waters from the glacier capped Eyjafjallajokull volcano. This powerful waterfall cascades into an idyllic meadow. It is best known for the walking path that runs behind its veil of falling water and mist. During the winter months, the path behind the falls is closed due to weather and ice. Because the falls are only 75 miles from Reykjavik, they make a perfect day trip for those staying in the city.   

Overnight Location

Hella, Southern Region

On the Map: Hella is a small town in the southern region of Iceland on the shores of the river Ytri-Ranga and has, as of 2021, 942 inhabitants. Hella is situated 94 kilometres (58 miles) to the east of Reykjavik on the Hringvegur between Selfoss and Hvolsvollur.

Hella’s history dates back to Iceland’s earliest days. Sitting by the river Ytri-Ranga, it was a source of freshwater and a wealth of salmon for the first settlers to come here. In this case, it is not thought they were Norse, but Irish monks and it is suspected that they lived in caves by river. Due to Iceland’s harsh climate, and the fact that the Irish monks often did not stay in Iceland for prolonged periods of time, many caves were used as makeshift homes during this time. Hella was not officially ‘founded’, however, until 1927, when a store was built beside the bridge at Ytri-Ranga. It is located near the volcano Hekla, the Landmannalaugar geothermal area and the Valley of Porsar where you can find some beautiful waterfalls.

Day 11

Depart From

Depart from Reykjavik-Keflavik International Airport (KEF), Southern Peninsula

Today you will depart from Keflavik Airport, also known as Reykjavik-Keflavik International Airport (KEF) located at 235 KEFLAVÍKURFLUGVÖLLUR, 235 Keflavík, Iceland. Please arrive at least 3 hours prior to your flight's departure time.