This is the only Country in the world where you will experience so many natural wonders in such a small geographic location. This out of the world landscape is covered in waterfalls, glaciers, Incredible rock formations, volcanoes and natural hot springs that have become very popular over the past decade, and for good reason! Iceland is full of adventure, easy to travel, and will leave you with amazing memories and experiences. This 14 day travel guide takes you around the the popular Ring Road and is jammed packed with special spots!
14 days to do it all! This is the perfect balance to experience the most of Iceland but you can do the same trip in 10 days if you want to speed the trip up. However you won't have as much time with the beautiful Icelandic horse, fluffy sheep, and incredible landscapes that are all along the Ring Road. You could also just split Iceland in Half and either tackle the southern portion or the Northern portion. If you are traveling during the winter months be sure to keep an eye out for Road.is and make sure the roads are clear from snow! Either way we are sure you'll really enjoy this country.
Only Have a Few days in Iceland? These are the top spots to see
Day 1: Arrival
Keflavik Airport
When you First Arrive pick up your Rental Car or Camper Van and be sure to know if you've booked an Automatic or a Manual and know which type of fuel you'll need. We booked our van with KuKu Campers and drove all around the Country.
Depending on how long your flight was or time you arrive in Iceland the first day is best for learning the vehicle and picking up Groceries to cover at least the first 3-4 days of the trip. You'll want to be well rested for the next few days of driving.
Tip: if your wanting to explore Icelands F-roads be sure to book a 4x4 vehicle. You can see the road numbers on Google maps.
Day 2: Blue Lagoon, Bridge between 2 Continents, Fagradalsfjall, Seljandsfoss Waterfall
Todays Drive time: 3hrs 25 mins
First Stop:Blue Lagoon
Start the drive early making your way south of Reykjavik to the famous Blue Lagoon. This drive will take you 40 minutes and it is incredible you can not miss this experience. They open at 8am and this is the best time to have the lagoon to yourself especially if you want to capture some beautiful photos. It is definitely one of the Best hot springs in Iceland. The milky blue water is a perfect to relax in at 38C/100F and its naturally mineral enriched properties are said to be medicinal as well.
Tip: Get there as early or late as possible for less people and cheaper tickets!
Second Stop:The Bridge Between Two Continents
Next head over to see tectonic plates in Action! Here at Sandvík you can see the European continent pulls itself away from the North American Continent! Okay, so it's not that exhilarating. But it is still cool to see where these two continents are pulling apart from each other. There is a small 50 ft long foot bridge that crosses over a major Fissure that shows clear evidence of the two diverging plates.
This place is also a great spot to go to if your trying to spot the Northern lights!
Third Stop: Fagradalsfjall (Active Volcano)
Like you've heard before Iceland is the Land of Fire and Ice and one of the many attractions is the incredible geothermal activity below the surface. Sometimes that activity rises above the surface. This is not always something that can be planned for but if we are lucky enough to have another active lava flow from the many volcanoes in Iceland you'll have to plan a trip around that incredible natural phenomena. Be sure to plane your trip the gases that are released can be very toxic and deadly you can check for information at Safetravel.is
Update: The lava flow has stopped as of September 2021
Fourth Stop: Seljandsfoss Waterfall
Driving along the South ring road heading east towards Vik you will see this incredible waterfall. It drops 60meters(197ft) and at sunset it is breathtaking. There is a trail that allows you to walk behind the waterfall for a different perspective that fits perfectly with the sunset colors across the Sky. Before heading up the trail near the parking lot (don't forget to pay) there is a small store that sells souvenirs and cafe stand that sells warm drinks. We stopped here to get two hot chocolates before hiking up the easy trail behind the Waterfall.
Day 3: Panorama Glass Lodge
This incredible glass roof hotel is a must! But they book up quick so check the availability here It is best to book 7-9 months out. Anyways, this is a perfect hotel to stay at in both the Winter and summer months with the glass walls and roof you can experience amazing sunrises, sunsets, stargazing, and yes the northern lights! You can experience all of this from your bed. These little luxurious viking style glass cabins are a super unique place to stay while visiting Iceland. We back tracked from the waterfall to stay here the nearest village is Hella which is about 25 minutes from the cabins so if you're wanting anything special make sure to stop and stock up. We really enjoyed the hot tub just outside our cabin and the glass sauna that was just a short walk away. It was very cool watching the weather roll across the lava fields and just relaxing with each other. We we were even lucky enough to see the Northern lights that night too!
Day 4: Skogafoss Waterfall, DC-3 Plane wreck, Dyrhólaey, Loftsalahellir Cave, Reynisfjara Beach
Todays Drive time: 49 mins
First Stop: Skogafoss Waterfall
Driving along the Ring Road you can see this incredible Waterfall! instantly the feeling of wanting to get out of the car sets in and you will want to get out and take photos. From the parking lot you to the abseils of the waterfall is very flat and easy to walk to besides the uneven river rocks that you'll find closer to the base of the waterfall. You can walk right up to the base of the falls for some insane photos, you'll just get soaked from the mist from being so close!
A lot of people just stop at this spot for a few minutes and take some photos before jumping back in the car and heading off to the next location. Once your done checking out the waterfall from the bottom there are some stairs/a trail to the right that will lead you to the top. We recommend going up them to see a different view and enjoy the moment a little bit longer. They are pretty steep and approximately 500 steps. It's also a great way to get in a little workout in and not as many people make the climb to the top. Once you complete the climb and catch your breath its time to enjoy the amazing view of the south coast of Iceland and you can see the river make its way from Skogafoss waterfall flow its way out to the ocean. If your planning to just hit the base of the waterfall and bouncing plan for 15-20 mins. But, we really recommend spending an hour or more to really take it all in and walk along the river.
Second Stop: DC-3 Plane Wreck Hike
Another popular stop just off the Ring Road is the Solheimasandur DC-3 plane wreck. The crash happened in 1973 and luckily everyone survived. From the parking lot the hike is 7Km (4.3 miles) long and you can plan to spend 1-2 hours here or more depending on how much time you want to spend at the site. The trail out is a marked gravel/sand mixture, is fairly easy, and being surrounded by never ending black sand field really makes you feel small. Just make sure you prepare yourself with Icelands unpredictable weather make sure you have what you need for the time of year you plan on visiting. The trail is on Private property so make sure anything you take out you bring back with you so its in good condition for others when they visit. We definitely recommend checking this spot out to really experience the isolation. The best times to go are early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Third Stop: Dyrhólaey Point
This spot has some incredible views all in one close location. Particularly the popular shot where the never ending black sand beach meets the Atlantic Ocean in a perfect line. Its a sight to see and definetly worth adding to your Iceland Adventure! There is also the Light house here that was built in 1910and is still in use on the south coast. Then there is the Dyrólaey itself which translates to "the island with the door hole." This rock formation is a natural archway that is 120 m high. From April through August this entire area is also the nesting ground for Puffins. The best time to spot them is in the morning and afternoon as they spend the day catching fish. Overall we recommend 1-2 hours at this spot at a minimum.
Forth Stop: Loftsalahellir Cave
Heading back to the Ring road there is a cave that gives a very cool view of the Dyrhólaey light house. The path is a bit steep up to the cave and you do have to jump over a small stream but nothing too difficult. But once you reach the cave you will have an incredible view and if the weather is good you'll see all of the Dyrhólaey, the Reynisdrangar off to the left and the ocean. Time to plan here really depends on how much time you want to spend here taking in the views and listening to the birds that live in and around the cave. We spent about an hour here before leaving to the next location.
Fifth Stop: Reynisfjara Beach
We made it to this spot in the late afternoon and needed to charge up our gear. This spot also has a few spots to check out but we started with a fantastic hot meal at the Black Beach Restaurant. We split their Fish & Chips (highly recommend) and tried a Snorri NR.10 Icelandic spiced beer. We really enjoyed sitting by the window watching people come and go and really enjoyed relaxing since this day was packed from the early morning.
**Also, noting here that this beach is very dangerous from sneaker waves**
Always pay attention to the ocean. These waves come out of thin air and come way up on the beach and have sometimes taken people out into the sea. In 2017 a family was caught by the waves and the mother was killed.
We walked down to the first spot on the beach the Hálsanefshellir Cave and is a huge sea cave that has exceptional basalt pillars. If you walk to the back of the cave you can get a cool shot looking out towards the ocean.
Immediately to the right of the cave are some extraordinary Basalt column formations. These are one of the most famous and photographed basalt columns in Iceland. Tourist will be climbing all over the stacks talking photos and you can see they look really cool and are often referred to a game of thrones throne.
Lastly, if the the ocean isn't to rough you can walk around the beach and climb over the rocks/boulders to have an up close view of Reynisdrangar. These are Basalt Sea Stacks and are very cool and we have seen them in a lot of shows and movies that have been filmed in Iceland. As you can see they really make you feel like you're on a different planet! We were here a total of 3 hours! but we really enjoyed ourselves and finishing the day off watching the sunset.
Day 5: Vik, The Yoda Cave, Massive Rock, Green Lava Walk, Fjaorarglijufur Canyon, Foss a sidu, Dverghamrar, Svartifoss Waterfall
Todays Drive time: 2 hours 13 mins
First Stop: Vik
We told you this is was a jammed packed guide to Iceland. Welcome to Vik! This remote seafront village is on the southern tip of Icelands desolate and dazzling landscape. Again, we started our morning early with some delicious coffee in our little camper van and went to Reyniskirkja Church to capture some really great photos. This church was built in 1929 to solidify Vik's status as a community. The back drop of the church is beautiful! The village, the ocean, and the Reynisdrangar basalt pillars in the distance. Great spot to have some coffee and watch the town wake up.
We then went into town to refuel and stock up on supplies since Vik is one of the last "large villages" its still small until the East side of the island. We went to the Kr.- Grocery store and then walked through the Icewear outdoor clothing store.(they have a great selection of Iceland Souvenirs). Filled up our Van at the N1 gas station and then we were on our way.
Second Stop: Gígjagjá better known as The Yoda Cave
The Caves in Iceland are incredible and all different but this one is from a Galaxy far, far away....
This cave is very easy to access and made our list of cool caves in Iceland specifically because it really does look like Yoda. Especially when your on the inside looking out. who knew Iceland was such a big Star Wars fan!
Third Stop: Massive Rock
Ok we didn't know what to call it and didn't find a name for it on the internet. But this rock is close by the Yoda cave just keep driving and you'll see it just standing alone surrounded by black sand. Really cool right!
Fourth Stop: Green Lava Walk
This place is out of this world and goes for miles. It is an old lava flow that is no longer active and over hundreds of years it is now completely covered with a delicate Moss. It really feels like you've stepped out into another world. but so far all of Iceland really feels this way. We spent 15 mins here again just admiring the unique landscape. The drive through this lava field was really cool too.
Fifth Stop: Fjadrargljufur
This 100 meter deep canyon is the King of all Canyons on the South Coast and has become a very popular spot thanks to Justin Bieber and his music video that has some incredible footage of Icelands landscape, "I'll Show you". The Fjadra river zig zags back and forth and over time has created this unique snake like canyon. There are two parking lots one that takes you to the top of the canyon or the other one that we went to at the exit of the canyon. There is a trail that takes you along the top of the canyon with different view points along the way.
Sixth Stop: Foss a Sidu
A 30m (98ft) waterfall right off the ring road. Very easy to stop and view for a few minutes and take some pictures. Usually there isn't much water running through this waterfall so on windy days the water will actually fall upward. The Waterfall is located on private property which is a farm that has been inhabited from the early settlements of Iceland in 874 and 930 AD and is also mentioned in some of the earliest pieces of Icelands literature.
Seventh Stop: Dverghamrar
Right across the road is this really stunning rock formation also know as the Dwarf cliffs. The cliffs are made from Basalt pillars and have a tales of Trolls, Giants, Elves, and Dwarves. Whether you'll ever see these mythical creatures one thing for sure this is a great rock formation to stop and check out. Maybe you'll see some of them when you visit!
Eigth Stop: Svartifoss Waterfall
Depending when you arrive and how much daylight is left you can either make the hike up to the waterfall for sunset or hit the trail early in the morning to watch the waterfall light up from the sunlight. This unique waterfall in Iceland is surrounded by Basalt pillars and is beautiful all year round. In the winter time a cone forms up around the water and is really cool to see.
The Campground we stayed at was called Skaftafell Campground and had very nice facilities and the grounds were very well maintained. This a great spot to stay while camping in Iceland.
Day 6: Diamond Beach, Jökulsárlón, Vestrahorn, Hofn
Todays Drive time: 1 hours 54 mins
First Stop: Diamond Beach
We woke up very early to complete a 45 minute drive to Diamond beach to make it there before Sunrise. When we got there it was already packed with photographers. but we set out to find our spot. Diamond beach will always be different each day. The "Diamonds" are ice chunks that are from the Jökulsárlón Glacier. Chunks of ice fall off and float their way down and get smaller along the way before floating under the bridge of the ring road and out into the Ocean. The Waves then push them back to shore scattering them along the beach. Because of this you will never have the same experience from day to day. This really is one of the best spots for photographers in Iceland.
Second Stop: Jökulsárlón
Right across the road is this lagoon and it is filled with Icebergs. There are also little chunks of ice on the shore from the leftovers of the icebergs that did not find their way out to the ocean. This spot also gets confused for diamond beach. Just remember the beach is on the ocean side of the ring road. When you're walking along the shore of the lagoon If your lucky you'll also see seals swimming around or on the shore. The air is much colder here since your close to the glacier and all the ice so make sure to bring a jacket.
Third Stop: Vestrahorn
Heading along the ring road you'll turn right just before goin through the tunnel there are a few spots here but first you'll need to go to the Viking cafe which has some delicious hot chocolate. You can also stay here at the viking cafe. the road past the cafe is on private property and you'll need to pay 900ISK ($6.62) to drive to the beach. past this point there are a few spots to check out. we went to the black sand beach at the end of the road first. It was empty here you can capture some beautiful reflections shots of vestrahorn mountain from the waves that come slowly rolling in if the conditions are right!
We also walked through the black sand dunes and really enjoyed the fresh sea air and listening to the waves rolling in along the Long Beach. This area had some straw growing throughout the dunes that added some beautiful colors to the Picture!
Then we headed over to the Stokksnes light house (built in 1922) and walked out on to the cliff edge and watched some massive waves crash up against the rocks. Then headed back towards the Viking cafe but stopping at the trail head to hike out to the viking village. This village is not an actual viking village but it was built in 2010 for a movie that ended up never being filmed. Now the weather beaten buildings are becoming more realistic and if you didn't know you would think it was a real viking village.
We also came across some of the sweetest Icelandic horses that came right up to us! But this whole area is incredible and definitely recommend adding this to your stop if you plan on making it all the way out to the far eat of Iceland.
Fourth Stop: Hofn
This is the second largest city in South eat Iceland. We stopped here at the Netto to again refill on gas and snacks before heading up the North eastern side of Iceland.
Day 7:Litlanesfoss, Hengifoss, Studlagil Canyon, Arctic Henge, Dettifoss
Todays Drive time: 5 hours 44 mins
First Stop: Litlanesfoss and Hengifoss
These two waterfalls both start from the same trail head. The hike total is a 5km (3.1 Miles) out and back trail. The first one that you'll encounter is litlanesfoss This is another beautiful Basalt pillar waterfall and is at the halfway point on your way up to Hengifoss and is often over looked but is still impressive.
Hengifoss is at the end of the hike and is 118m (386ft) tall and is the third tallest waterfall in Iceland. But what makes this waterfall so unique are the multiple beautiful layers of red clay. It is eye catching and a brilliant spot for photos showing the different stages of how Iceland was formed from its different combinations of volcanic activity and cooling.
We spent about 3 hours here and think it is on our list of best waterfalls to see in Iceland.
Second Stop: Studlagil Canyon
This was once a hidden gem but is becoming more and more popular and for good reason and is still worth the visit. The canyon is breathtaking and has those famous basalt pillars lining the canyon walls with the river running through it. But we do want to point out that only under the right conditions the sediment in the water from the glacier settles and becomes this amazing blue color.
The best chance of seeing this is during the summer months when the river levels are low in the beginning of June to early August.
Third Stop: Arctic Henge
Ok so if you've ever seen stone henge its like that but the Northern version. It is Located near one of the most remote and northermost villages in Raufarhöfn, a quaint fishing village. Its construction was completed in 2004 and it acts like a massive sundial, aiming to capture the suns rays and casts a shadow in precise locations that allow the light to be aligned between the gateways. Also a very popular spot to veiw the northern lights in the winter months.
Fourth Stop: Dettifoss waterfall
This is the second most powerful waterfall in Europe next to Rhine Falls on the boarder of Germany and Switzerland. It flows from the Vatnajökull Glacier and is 43m (144ft) tall its about a 10 minute walk from the parking lot and if the weather is sunny you'll see Rainbows forming throughout the mist. This location can also be seen in the 2012 film Prometheus The best time to visit is during the afternoon at golden hour on the western side of the falls.
Day 8: Viti Crater, Sulpher Springs, Myvatn Nature Baths, Grjótagjá, Godafoss
Todays Drive time: 1 hours 4 mins
First Stop: Viti Crater
We have made our way back into an actively geothermal area of Iceland. Driving through the volcanic area the roads seem to go on forever in a straight line. You'll also drive past the Krafla Geothermal Powerplant which is very cool to see the steam rising up out of the ground and pipes. The crater is a very easy visit and about a 5 minute walk from the parking lot to the crater view point. The water is blue and in the summer time is around 25C/77F but freezes over in the winter time so really its just a large crater with very pretty blue water. Though we want you guys to make your own choses we feel that if you don't have time you can skip this one.
Second Stop: Hveraströnd Sulpher Springs
This geothermal field has no vegetation and is full of steam vents, boiling mud pools, and the earth has been tinted from the yellow sulfur. It truly feels like a different planet with all the steam hissing and rising from the ground you really need to check this spot out for yourself!
Third Stop: Myvatn Nature Bath
Relax in milky blue waters and enjoy the surrounding Icelandic landscape. Similar to the Blue lagoon but less people this is a great place to unwind from all the adventures you've had along the way. Tickets are 5.900 Kr ($43) and they are open from 10am-11pm M-F. The water is 36-40C (96-104F) and feels amazing! maybe from us being on the road the past week or because we just love Hotsprings.
Forth Stop: Grjótagjá
Another unique Cave in Iceland that you should check out! This one is gaining popularity after being in Game of Thrones. This small cave is filled half way with beautiful geothermal hot spiring waters.This cave was used by locals up until the 1970's when the Geothermal forces shifted and the temperature increased. from 1975-1984 the Krafla volcanic system erupted 9 times and the water in the cave began to boil. Since then the waters have slowly started to cool back down but it is still not open to swimming. There are signs posted warning about the hot tempuratures the waters are now around 60C/140F and some areas the water is still extremely hot. Please remember to leave no trace to help preserve this incredible cave!
Fifth Stop: Godafoss
One of the best waterfalls in Iceland and just off the Ring road! Don't forget to add this wide waterfall to your trip. It takes about 1 hour to explore and take pictures. It is nicknamed waterfall of the gods and one of the biggest in Iceland. It is fed by the Skjálfandafljót river and feeds out into a 7000 year old lava field from the Trölladyngja Volcano.
Day 9: Hvitserkur, Kolugljúfur Canyon, Hellulaug hot spring
Todays Drive time: 7 hours 26 mins
a good amount of time will be on the road today as you make your way towards the western fjords. Its a good 3 hour and 13 minute drive to the next location but you'll pass by hundreds of sheep and beautiful Icelandic horse and the beautiful dramatic landscape. Driving in iceland is never boring every 15-30 minutes the scenery changes and something grabs your attention.
First Stop: Hvitserkur
Just off the shore is this mystical rock formation. The tales say that it was trolls that were making there way back accidentally found themselves caught outside at sunrise and turned to stone. Its also good to know that the tide plays a part in this area so depending on if you arrive at high tide or low tide the water will either be in or out. we were here for about an hour and noticed that this would be a perfect place to veiw the Northern lights.
Second Stop: Kolugljúfur Canyon
The Canyon is about 1 km long and 60m wide and 40 m deep. similar to the Fjaorarglijufur Canyon in the south but not as popular its a canyon with a river running through it but is still impressive. It also contains a waterfall Kolufossar and both the gorge and falls are named after a giantess (Kola) that was once said to live in the area and shaped by her daily activities.
Third Stop: Hellulaug Hot spring
One of our Favorite Hot springs which is just off the side of the road and has an incredible ocean view too! This natural hot spring is about 38C/100F and about 3 feet deep. Just above the pool is a small car park next to the road so its not very far and you can see how many people are in it and decide if you want to jump in or hit it on the way back at a different time. We had the place to ourselves for about 2 hours before we decided to leave. There was very little traffic on the road above which made the spring feel more wild and amazing.
Day 10: Birkimel Hot Spring, Raudisandur, Látrabjarg, Pourinn Hot pot
Todays Drive time: 3 hours 32 mins
First Stop: Birkimel (hot spring) swimming pool
Just 15 Minutes around the corner from Hellulaug Hotsprings is a man-made Swimming pool with a Hot pot down close to the waters edge. There is a honor drop box to pay the fee of 700ISK ($5) and they have changing rooms that are open from 12-9pm but you can access the hot pot at anytime.
Second Stop: Raudisandur
After seeing all of the black sand beaches in Iceland it was weird to see this golden sand bar. In the right lighting though it appears to have red tint to it and again one of the spots we would add to our list of other worldly spots in Iceland for sure.
Third Stop: Látrabjarg
Welcome to the Westernmost part of Iceland! The cliffs here are filled with a wide variety of sea birds including Puffins and we are big fans. Not much to do here besides watching the waves crash up against the cliff and bird watching. But its still beautiful. Oh and the bragging rights to say you've been to the farthest most western point in Iceland.
Fourth Stop: Pollurinn Hot pool
This man made hot spring is about 46C/114F. The water is fed into 4 blue painted concrete pools next to a small building with a red roof with a donation box on the side to help maintain the place. Again this Coastal hot spring provides incredible views of the fjord and has a path to the waters edge if you want to cool off in the ocean. We missed this one on our last trip.
Day 11: Dynjandi, Hólmavik
Todays Drive time: 4 hours 16 mins
First Stop: Dynjandi
This is the largest waterfall in the west fjords of Iceland. The cascading water is beautiful and mesmorizing to watch. Easily seen from the parking lot but there is also a trail that you can walk up, no more than 15 minutes, to the base of the falls for a closer view. This is one of the Jewels of the western Fjords and in our opinion, we totally agree! It's total height is 100m (328ft)
Second Stop: Hólmavik
This super small village is full of colorful little homes and buildings. There is even a display of the largest Sea turtle in the world! in 1963 this turtle was hauled on shore which Iceland does not usually have turtles but it weighed in at 375 kilos (827lbs) and was 2.03m (6ft 8in) long which is a huge beast of a turtle! you can view a casting of this turtle at the Hólmavik development center for yourself. This town is very quaint and beautiful, but, it also has a dark side and is home to the museum of Icelandic Sorcery and witchcraft. it displays what happened in Iceland with the which craze period during the 17th century, Icelandic folklore and its connection with magic and sorcery.
Day 12: Kirkjufell, Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall, Landbrotalaug hot pot, The cave Vidgelmir
Todays Drive time: 2 hours 10 mins
First Stop: Kirkjufell
This is arguably the most famous "mountain" in Iceland and was featured in the Tv Series Game of Thrones. This 463m (1,519ft) hill on the snæfellsnes peninsula is the most photographed mountain in the country! There is the option to hike up the mountain but it is fairly steep and we felt the view was of the mountain itself.
Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall
This picturesque waterfall is close to the kirkjufells mountain and is the best spot to photograph the mountain. With the waterfall in the foreground and the kirkjufells mountain in the distance it really just doesn't feel real.
Third Stop: Landbrotalaug Hot pot
Really cool geothermal area. Again it felt like being on a different planet as we left the parking lot looking for this tiny hot pot. We found the Pipe gushing out hot water into the pond first. And then after some searching we found the tiny 1-2 person hot pot. it really is just a hole in the ground that is about 4 feet deep and not much room for more than just the two of us to relax in.
Fourth Stop: The Cave Vidgelmir
Iceland's largest Lava cave! the roof of the cave has collapsed here creating the only known entrance. the cave is 1585km long and the largest part of the cave is 15.8m (51ft) high and 16.5m (54) wide. What's really unique about this cave is that there are Ice stalagmites and Stalactites which we've never seen before in side a lava tube.
Day 13: Reykjavik
Welcome to the capital of Iceland! We recommend at least a full day here or two if you have time to explore the City side of Iceland. The people here are very friendly and don't forget to try the amazing foods. The buildings here are also very captivating and that's why we found this to be one of the best cities in Europe to visit! you'll definitely be able to find lots of things to do in Reykjavik and don't forget to check out the luxurious sky lagoon while your here which we add to our list of hot springs to go to in Iceland.
Where to stay!
Reykjavik Domes just north of the city has a spectacular view of nature from the comfort of a cozy king sized bed, a fireplace, and a hot tub.
Day 14: Strokkur Geysir, Secret lagoon, Hrunalaug, Reykjadalur Thermal River
Todays Drive time: 2 hours 41 mins
First Stop: Strokkur Geysir
A geothermal Rich area near the Hvíta River. The Geysir erupts every 6-100 Minutes and can reach heights of 15-20m (50-65ft) High making it the largest Geysir in Iceland. Though the water looks like a great place to take a swim its definitely not going to happen as the water here is close to boiling at 100C/212F.
Yes it really is that cool!
Second Stop: Secret Lagoon
The not so secret, Secret lagoon is on our list of hot springs to visit while in Iceland. This is the oldest swimming pool in iceland and was made in 1891. Its cheaper than the Blue lagoon and not as busy. The warm mineral rich water is 40C/104 year round. The pool has a simple design and even has a small natural Geysir that goes off every few minutes creating a true Icelandic experience. We arrived just after they opened and the forecast for the day was rain. we had the place basically to ourselves and it was an incredible experience.
Second Stop: Hrunalaug Hot spring
This is one of the coolest Icelandic Hot springs ever! Its also becoming more and more popular so if you plan yo visit during the peak season you can almost forget about having this incredible place to yourself. IT is located on on a Farm and maintained by the local farmer. The fee for this spring is 1000ISK ($7.50) which is so much cheaper than the larger hot spring spa's and goes directly to the farmer for keeping this magic spot maintained. Please remember to leave no trace so that this place continues to remain amazing for other travelers that want to visit.
Forth Stop: Reykjadalur Thermal River
Also high on our list of hot springs to visit in Iceland is the Thermal river. You do have to work for this one though with a 3km hike up to the valley one way that takes about 45-60 minutes. there are plenty of spots to stop for photos along the way and bubbling mud holes along the trail. The thermal river is a natural hot spring that feeds into the existing stream there are little pools that have been built up from rock piles blocking the stream. As you walk through the waters be careful the temperature at some of the spots along the stream are boiling 100C/212F. Definitely a beautiful area and a must add to your trip. This was our last stop of the day and we enjoyed some of Icelands amazing Midnight sun late into the night before making the hike back out to the van.
Day 15: Keflavik Airport
After an incredible trip in Iceland we went back towards the airport and stayed in the cheapest hotel we could find just to repack our bags and empty out everything from the van. Our flight was very early in the morning and we didn't want to leave. At the Airport before checking in your baggage you can reclaim your VAT tax from the trip with the receipts from the trip. Show up a little bit earlier to take advantage!
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