From the South coast to the wild West

DAY 1 – REYKJAVĺK

Arrive in Iceland and pick up your rental car at Keflavík International Airport, marking the beginning of your winter journey.

Start your drive through the Reykjanes Peninsula, a geologically active region shaped by recent volcanic eruptions, vast lava fields and steaming geothermal areas. Along the way, visit remarkable sites such as the Gunnuhver hot spring, known for its bubbling mud pools and dramatic steam vents, the Bridge Between Continents connecting the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, and the colourful geothermal area of Krísuvík.

The peninsula offers a striking introduction to Iceland’s raw natural forces and unique landscapes.

Continue to Reykjavík, where you can settle in and explore the city’s lively atmosphere, restaurants and landmarks.

Overnight in Reykjavík.

DAY 2 – THE SOUTH COAST

Travel along Iceland’s scenic South Coast, a region known for its dramatic contrasts of waterfalls, glaciers, and rugged shoreline.

Begin with a visit to Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the cascading water, followed by the powerful Skógafoss, one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. Continue east past sweeping coastal views and glacier-capped volcanoes, making a stop at Reynisfjara black sand beach, famous for its basalt columns and crashing Atlantic waves. For panoramic views of the coastline, take a detour to Dyrhólaey, offering impressive vistas over black beaches and sea arches. As the day progresses, the landscapes become more remote and striking as you head towards the village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur.

Overnight in the Klaustur area.

DAY 3 – SKAFTAFELL & GLACIER LAGOON

Explore the highlights of Vatnajökull National Park, home to Europe’s largest glacier and some of Iceland’s most impressive natural scenery.

Begin in the Skaftafell area, known for its accessible hiking trails, glacier viewpoints, and dramatic mountain landscapes. Continue east to the spectacular Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where icebergs break off the glacier and drift across the calm waters. Just across the road, Diamond Beach offers a striking contrast, with ice fragments scattered across black volcanic sand.

This region provides excellent photo opportunities and the chance to experience Iceland’s glacial environment up close, with optional activities such as guided glacier hikes or ice cave visits in winter.

Return to the Klaustur area for overnight.

DAY 4 – GULLFOSS & GEYSIR

Start your day with a scenic drive from the Klaustur area as you head west toward the Golden Circle, passing through varied landscapes of lava fields, rivers, and open countryside.

Depending on weather and road conditions, you may choose to take an optional detour through Þjórsárdalur valley, though this requires an early start to fully enjoy the area.

This scenic region offers a quieter experience, with waterfalls, lava fields, and wide open landscapes.

Then you will discover Iceland’s most famous attractions along this popular sightseeing route. Visit the powerful Gullfoss waterfall, where glacial water cascades into a dramatic canyon, offering excellent viewpoints year-round. Continue to the Geysir geothermal area, home to the active Strokkur geyser, which erupts every few minutes, sending hot water high into the air. The region showcases Iceland’s geothermal energy and volcanic activity in an accessible and compact area, with well-developed stops and facilities.

Overnight in the Golden Circle area.

DAY 5 – ÞINGVELLIR & BORGARFJÖRÐUR

Visit Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, creating a dramatic rift valley landscape.

The area is also the birthplace of Alþingi, Iceland’s original parliament, adding strong historical significance to the visit.

Continue north toward Borgarfjörður, a region known for its natural beauty and geothermal activity. Along the way, enjoy changing landscapes as you move from open plains to more rugged terrain. In Borgarfjörður, visit Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring, and the nearby waterfalls Hraunfossar and Barnafoss, where clear water flows through lava fields in a unique formation.

Overnight in the Borgarfjörður area.

DAY 6 – SNÆFELLSNES PENINSULA

Explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in Miniature” due to its diverse landscapes. Visit the iconic Kirkjufell mountain, dramatic coastal cliffs, black sand beaches, and lava formations. The glacier-capped Snæfellsjökull volcano dominates the region and adds to the scenery. This area offers a full day of varied highlights in a compact region.

Overnight in Borgarfjörður.

DAY 7 – REYKJAVÍK

Return to Reykjavík for your final full day, allowing time to explore the capital at your own pace.

Visit key landmarks such as Hallgrímskirkja church for panoramic city views, the striking Harpa Concert Hall, and the old harbor area with its cafés and galleries. The city offers a wide range of dining options, from casual local spots to more refined restaurants, as well as boutique shopping and cultural attractions. Optional experiences such as geothermal spa visits or guided tours can easily be added to enhance the day.

This is an ideal opportunity to unwind and reflect on your journey before departure.

Overnight in Reykjavík.

DAY 8 – DEPARTURE

Drive back to Keflavík International Airport for your departure, passing once more through the Reykjanes Peninsula. If your schedule allows, you may have time for a short stop along the way, such as a coastal viewpoint or a quick visit in Reykjavík.

Return your rental car at the airport before your onward journey.