The Jewels of Iceland is a self-drive trip with a very complete itinerary, which allows you to discover, among the most famous natural sites of Iceland. You will make the complete tour of the island, following the ring road. From North to South, you will discover varied landscapes, black sandy beaches, large fjords between sea and mountains, volcanoes, glaciers, waterfalls… Icelandic nature is full of exceptional sites that you will discover freely and at your rhythm.
Your itinerary is given as an indication. We can arrange this self-drive trip according to the time you have, with a minimum stay of 10 days. A domestic flight is possible between Reykjavik and Akureyri, if you don’t have enough time to go around the island.
Upon arrival at Keflavik International Airport, you pick up your rental vehicle and head to your accommodation, located along the South coast of the country, in the small town of Hveragerði, known for its intense geothermal activity.
For late arrivals, you can stay near the airport, by the coast. Driving distance about 90 kms.
Today is dedicated to the visit of the Golden Circle and its three emblematic sites: Gullfoss, Geysir and Þingvellir. You can walk in the middle of the lava formations where the American and Eurasian tectonic plates separate, in the heart of the Þingvellir national park, classified as World Heritage by UNESCO, before continuing towards the famous Geysir, to let yourself be surprised by the power and spontaneity of its geyser. Finally, you can go to the foot of Gullfoss, one of the most powerful and beautiful waterfalls in the country.
Overnight in the Hella region. Driving distance about 200 kms.
You continue your trip along the South coast. En route, you stop at the famous waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss. A little further, you can admire the impressive basalt organs of Reynisfjara beach and continue with a superb walk along the black sand beach of Vík.
Overnight in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur region. Driving distance about 180 kms.
Continuing along road n°1, you cross the immense lava fields resulting from an ancient eruption of the Laki volcano, impressive! You can stop at Skaftafell National Park to admire the glacial tongue of the Vatnajökull glacier. Several hikes are possible in the heart of the park. In the afternoon you arrive in front of the Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon, one of the most beautiful natural sites in the country. Unforgettable stroll along the famous Diamond Beach where the icebergs come to run aground.
Overnight in the Höfn region. Driving distance about 200 kms.
The beauty of the East region lies in the fishing villages nestled in the depths of its fjords. All day, beautiful scenic route which takes you through grandiose landscapes. The artistic reputation of the small town of Djúpivogur is well established and its wild surroundings, ideal for a nice stroll. The town of Fáskrúðsfjörður keeps alive the memory of French fishermen, who came to these latitudes for cod fishing, an interesting jump into the past. Arrival at Eskifjordur at the end of the day. The site offers superb reflection’s games on the calm waters of its fjord. Accommodation with Jacuzzi and an unforgettable view between sea and mountain.
Driving distance about 250 kms.
On the way to the north, possibility of discovering the surroundings of Egilsstaðir which offer some exceptional natural sites before continuing in the lunar and deserted landscapes of the North. Stop in the heart of the plain of Möðrudalur were is located the most isolated farm in the country, a true oasis in the heart of the mountains. Visit of the Jokulsa gorge and Dettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in Europe. Nice walk along the impressive cliffs that surround the waterfall. An ideal place to recharge your batteries.
Overnight in the Myvatn region by the lake. Driving distance about 250 kms.
Enjoy a full day to explore the surroundings of Lake Mývatn. Many hikes are possible, whether in the heart of the amazing lava castles of Dimmuborgir, on top of the Hverfell crater or in the heart of the solfatares and muddy ponds of Námaskarð … you will be spoiled by choice. At the end of the day pamper yourself in the relaxing hot springs of Myvatn baths.
Overnight at the same place. Driving distance about 20 kms. We recommend a second day in Mývatn.
Today you continue driving toward the North West. You can stop at the beautiful Godafoss waterfall and visit the capital of the North, Akureyri before exploring the Eyjafjörður Fjord. You embark on a whale watching excursion to observe the humpback whales in the fjord, before continuing along the Trollaskagi peninsula (the troll peninsula) where you can still admire the vestiges of Iceland rich past.
Overnight in the Hofsós region. Driving distance about 250 kms.
You’re driving in the direction of Reykjavik with several stops to appreciate the beauty of the landscapes. Discover the discreet Vatnsnes peninsula which is home to the largest seal colony in the country. Throughout the journey, you will enjoy superb views of the sea. Do not miss the famous Hvítserkur rock, some of which say that it is a petrified troll… Last stop in Borgarnes, city known to be one of the cradles of the Icelandic Sagas before arriving at the end of the day in Reykjavik.
Overnight in the city center. Driving distance about 300 kms.
Spend a lovely day in Reykjavik. Stroll through the colorful alleys of the city centre, visit the port, the cathedral or the new Harpa cultural center, astonishing with its modern architecture. Enjoy some shopping and an evening to enjoy the atmosphere of its various cafes, bars and restaurants. In the evening you drive to the airport for your international flight.
Driving distance about 50 kms.
