Scenic Iceland: A real ring road tour

9-Day Iceland Adventure with Westman Islands Escape

Description

Day 1 – Reykjavík City & Geothermal Retreat

Your journey begins with a morning pick-up in Reykjavík followed by a relaxed city tour. Discover highlights like the striking Hallgrímskirkja Church, modern Harpa Concert Hall, and the iconic Sun Voyager sculpture by the bay.

Stop for lunch at Hvammsvík, where you’ll enjoy fresh Icelandic seafood soup with warm sourdough bread by the sea. Then soak in the Hvammsvík Hot Springs, a blend of natural geothermal pools, sea baths, and a steam room nestled in a quiet fjord setting. The shifting tides create a unique experience each visit.

In the afternoon, visit Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you'll walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, explore volcanic rift valleys, and discover the historical site of Iceland’s first parliament, Alþingi, founded over 1,000 years ago.

Wrap up the day with a drive to the South Coast and settle in for the night.
Overnight: Selfoss
Meals Included: Lunch

Day 2 – Golden Circle & South Coast Wonders

Today you’ll explore the iconic Golden Circle. Watch the earth erupt at Strokkur geyser, then feel the spray from Gullfoss, a roaring two-tiered waterfall plunging into a rugged canyon.

Enjoy lunch at Farmers Bistro, a charming countryside stop serving creamy mushroom soup and fresh-baked breads with a spread of mushroom-based delicacies.

In the afternoon, visit Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall you can walk behind, and the hidden Gljúfrabúi, partially concealed by cliffs. Conclude the day with a scenic ferry ride to the Westman Islands, a volcanic archipelago full of history and wildlife.
Overnight: Westman Islands
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3 – Exploring the Westman Islands

Spend the day discovering the unique charm of the Westman Islands. Hike to the top of Eldfell Volcano, which dramatically erupted in 1973, offering sweeping views over the island.

Explore the island’s striking volcanic terrain, sea cliffs, and charming village streets. Optional visits include the Eldheimar Museum, built over the remains of homes buried in lava, or the Beluga Whale Sanctuary where rescued whales are cared for in a secluded bay.
Overnight: Westman Islands
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 4 – South Coast Adventure

Return to the mainland by morning ferry and continue along the stunning South Coast. First stop is Skógafoss, a majestic curtain of water with a staircase to a panoramic viewpoint.

Enjoy a short walk to Kvernufoss, a peaceful waterfall tucked away in a mossy canyon. Later, experience the dramatic coastline at Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, known for its roaring waves and basalt sea stacks.

Optional: Hike to Svartifoss in Skaftafell National Park, known for its black lava-column backdrop (moderate, 1.5 hrs round-trip).
Overnight: Skaftafell
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 5 – Icebergs, Beaches & Forests

Today brings you to one of Iceland’s most surreal landscapes—Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Embark on an amphibian boat tour among icebergs floating in the crystal-blue water, broken off from Europe’s largest glacier.

Just nearby, visit Diamond Beach, where the icebergs wash ashore in sparkling contrast to the black sand. In the afternoon, drive east toward Iceland’s largest forest, Hallormsstaðaskógur, and enjoy a relaxing nature walk or lakeside picnic.
Overnight: Egilsstaðir
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 6 – The Eastern Highlands & Raw Power of Nature

Begin with a visit to the stunning Stuðlagil Canyon, where vertical basalt columns rise along a brilliant turquoise river. The short hike leads you to one of the most photogenic spots in East Iceland.

Enjoy a farm-style lunch in the highlands, sampling fresh Icelandic dishes. Continue to the thundering Dettifoss Waterfall, considered the most powerful in Europe. End the day exploring Ásbyrgi Canyon, a horseshoe-shaped cliff formation surrounded by forest and legends.
Overnight: Húsavík area
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7 – Lake Mývatn & North Iceland Highlights

Explore the surreal terrain of Lake Mývatn, with its bubbling geothermal mud pots at Hverir, bizarre lava formations in Dimmuborgir, and crater-like formations at Skútustaðir.

Visit the beautiful Goðafoss Waterfall, known as the “Waterfall of the Gods,” before heading into Akureyri, Iceland’s lively northern capital, for a bit of urban charm.
Overnight: Varmahlíð
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 8 – Into the West: Hidden Canyons & Craters

Head west toward the scenic Snæfellsnes Peninsula, with several hidden gems along the way. First, see Hvítserkur, a 15-meter sea stack shaped like a dragon sipping from the sea. Then descend into the dramatic Kolugljúfur Canyon, where waterfalls thunder into the gorge below.

End the day with a walk up Grábrók Volcano, an easy hike with epic views of lava fields and green valleys.
Overnight: Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 9 – Snæfellsnes Peninsula & Return to Reykjavík

Explore the wonders of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in Miniature” for its diverse scenery. See the iconic Kirkjufell Mountain and nearby Kirkjufellsfoss, a favorite of photographers.

Walk the clifftops at Arnarstapi and marvel at the stone arch of Gatklettur, formed by crashing waves. Visit the serene Búðir Black Church, set against a backdrop of lava fields and golden beaches. Return to Reykjavík in the evening.
Overnight: Reykjavík
Meals Included: Breakfast