Iceland: Land of fire and ice

Imagine a place where glaciers rest on top of volcanoes, where the midnight sun graces the horizon, and where horses and sheep outnumber humans. Iceland is a realm of both the peculiar and the picturesque. Join me as I recount the highlights of my 8-day exploration across this captivating island.

Day 1

Reykjavik → Vik

Embark on a journey that encapsulates summer and winter within a single hour as you brace yourself against the unpredictable whims of Iceland's weather. Prepare for a sensory experience like no other.

Highlights:
Seljalandsfoss
Skógafoss
Black Sand Beach
Reynisdrangar
Seljalandsfoss
‍‍
From Reykjavik to Vik: 200km (2.5-hour drive)

Day 2

Vik → Skaftafell

Journey to the Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, a geological wonder forged over 10,000 years ago as the last ice age drew to a close. Marvel at the ancient bedrock that dates back two million years.

Highlights:
Eldhraun lava field (Mossy Lava Rocks)
Fjaðrárgljúfur

‍‍
From Vik to Skaftafell: 140km (1.75-hour drive)

Day 3

Skaftafell → Hofn

Go seal-watching at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and admire the stunning blue-hued icebergs.

Highlights:
Skaftafell
Svartifoss
Jökulsárlón

‍
From Skaftafell to Hofn: 140km (1.75-hour drive)

Day 4

Hofn → Myvatn

Experience a scenic drive along Iceland's southeastern coastline, known as the East Fjords. Traverse narrow, winding roads that snake over rocky peaks, offering unparalleled views. Cap off the day with a rejuvenating dip in the Mývatn Nature Baths' outdoor hot springs.
‍
Highlights:
Seydisfjordur
Mývatn Nature Baths
Mývatn

‍
From Hofn to Myvatn: 360km (5-hour drive)

Day 5

Myvatn → Hvammstangi

Discover the majestic Goðafoss waterfall in Iceland's northern reaches, a site often dubbed the "Niagara Falls of Iceland."

‍
Highlights:
Goðafoss
Akureyri

‍
From Myvatn to Hvammstangi: 280km (3.5-hour drive)

Day 6

Hvammstangi → Snæfellsjökull

Explore the iconic Kirkjufell, Iceland's most photographed mountain, nestled within the town of Grundarfjörður.
‍
Highlights:
Kirkjufell
‍
From Hvammstangi to Snæfellsjökull: 250km (3-hour drive)

Day 7

Snæfellsjökull → Þingvelli

Experience the natural wonders of Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Þingvellir is situated within the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, a tectonic boundary where the North American and Eurasian plates slowly move apart.

‍

‍Highlights:
Snæfellsjökull National Park
Þingvellir National Park
‍
From Snæfellsjökull to Þingvelli: 222km (2.75-hour drive)