The Blue Diamond Route
This route, perfect for volcanic scenery, circles the Reykjanes Peninsula. Starting and ending at Keflavík International Airport, it covers about 75–115km
and can be explored in 1–3 days. You'll witness the raw power of geothermal activity, including the famed Blue Lagoon and the recently active volcanic valley of Geldingadalir. The landscape is shaped by the visible rift between the American and Eurasian tectonic plates, offering stark lava fields and windswept coastlines. Don't miss the local legends of Kleifarvatn Lake or the many hiking opportunities available. For a deeper exploration, consider extending your stay beyond a single day to fully appreciate the peninsula's unique geological features and coastal charm, making it an ideal introduction to Iceland's dramatic volcanic character.
Summer's Nesjavallaleið
For a unique summer drive, consider Route 435, Nesjavallaleið, a less-traveled path offering a different perspective on the Golden Circle. This 225km route, best enjoyed over 1–3 days, begins on Reykjavík's outskirts and winds through mossy lava fields with distant views of Þingvallavatn Lake. It's an excellent choice for hikers, with numerous marked trails inviting exploration. You'll pass the Nesjavallavirkjum Power Plant and the architecturally striking Hotel Rangá, alongside tranquil lakes like Úlfljótsvatn. The journey concludes by connecting with the main road near the Kerið crater lake, leading you to the majestic Gullfoss waterfall and the Geysir geothermal area. A detour to the historic Laugarvatnshellar caves or the Gljúfrasteinn Laxness Museum offers cultural enrichment, making this a scenic and historically significant summer excursion.
Remote East Fjords
Explore the maritime heritage of Iceland's East Fjords with this extensive 820km route, best tackled over 2–3 days from Egilsstaðir. Begin by visiting Vopnafjörður, known for its geothermal pool. The challenging Route 917 offers stunning summer passage, but returning via Routes 85 and 1 is recommended for ease. Borgarfjörður eystri, with its puffin-watching house and hiking trails to the breathtaking Stórurð lake, is a highlight. Explore Eskifjörður and Neskaupstaður to see beautifully restored historic buildings and enjoy local cuisine at restaurants like Randulff's Seahouse and Nesstofa. Stöðvarfjörður boasts a captivating museum of crystals and minerals. This journey is punctuated by encounters with reindeer and offers a deep dive into coastal life and geological wonders.
The Dramatic Westfjords
The Westfjords offer a truly dramatic road trip, covering approximately 765km and requiring 4–7 days for exploration, starting from Reykjavík. Journey through the peaceful Dalir region, stopping at Erpsstaðir dairy farm for local cheeses. Discover Viking history at the Settlement Center and the reconstructed Guðrúnarlaug pool. Reach Ísafjörður, the region's main hub, and experience the unique SjávarSmiðjan seaweed baths. The southern coast of the peninsula presents awe-inspiring, albeit challenging, gravel roads. Culminate your drive with a walk on Rauðasandur's red beach and a visit to Látrabjarg's bird cliffs, teeming with puffins and other seabirds. A ferry from Brjánslækur to Stykkishólmur via the timeless island of Flatey provides a scenic return, allowing for exploration of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula before heading back to the capital.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula Gem
Often called 'Iceland in Miniature,' the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is a 440km loop from Reykjavík, ideal for 1–3 days of exploration. Its diverse landscapes include white-sand beaches like Löngufjörur, perfect for horseback riding, otherworldly lava fields near Búðir, and the majestic Snæfellsjökull National Park. Discover volcanic craters, rhyolite mountains, and caves, alongside abundant birdlife on its cliffs. The northern coast features charming fishing villages and the iconic Kirkjufell mountain, a popular spot for northern lights photography. This peninsula offers a condensed yet comprehensive Icelandic experience, inviting activities from hiking and bird watching to sailing, making it a captivating destination for a shorter trip.
Highland's Kjölur Route
For an authentic exploration of Iceland's rugged interior, the ancient Kjölur route (F-road) is a week-long adventure covering 1378km, commencing from Reykjavík. This route, accessible only in summer with a 4WD vehicle, traverses the stark landscape between the Langjökull and Hofsjökull glaciers. The highlight is Hveravellir, a geothermal oasis featuring a lodge, natural bathing pools, and multicolored geothermal areas with marked hiking trails leading to the Kerlingarfjöll mountains. Upon rejoining the Ring Road, you can continue towards Akureyri, the 'Capital of the North,' offering cultural experiences and vibrant nightlife. The journey down the east coast of the Ring Road reveals stunning fjords, mountains, and villages like Fáskrúðsfjörður with its French sailor monument.
The Diamond Circle
North Iceland's answer to the Golden Circle, the Diamond Circle, spans approximately 250km and is best enjoyed over 1–3 days from Húsavík. This route showcases the region's wild scenery, including the horseshoe-shaped Ásbyrgi canyon within Vatnajökull National Park, offering panoramic views from Eyjan and serving as a habitat for majestic gyrfalcons. The Mývatn area is a crucial stop, featuring a vast lake, lava fields, steaming fumaroles, and bubbling hot springs, along with geothermal baths. Don't miss the iconic Goðafoss, the 'waterfall of the gods,' and Aldeyjarfoss, adorned with columnar basalt. Húsavík itself is a hub for whale watching and offers charming museums and seafood restaurants, making this a vibrant and geologically rich circuit.
Arctic Coast Way
Designed for leisurely exploration, the Arctic Coast Way spans 900km along Iceland's northern coastline, ideal for a 1–2 week journey from Hvammstangi to Bakkafjörður. This route is best experienced during the long summer days, though winter offers chances for northern lights viewing. Discover sleepy villages, remote islands, and unique natural sites. Key stops include the Icelandic Sea Monster Museum in Bíldudalur, foraging opportunities in Djúpavík, and fortune-telling in Hólmavík. Photogenic coastlines, the Hvítserkur sea stack, the Arctic Henge in Raufarhöfn, and the gannet colony at Stórurð add to its allure. This path is perfect for those seeking to embrace slow travel and witness the raw beauty of Iceland's northern shores, offering a different perspective through whale-watching, kayaking, or diving tours.
