The Ring Road is a whirlwind road trip for those adventurous souls who wants to explore Iceland. Driving around the perimeter of the country on a road which has only two lanes, watch as the landscape constantly changes from Jurassic Park, to Mars, and Rivendell. Sheep run in the middle of the road. Waterfalls are countless. It is an unforgettable journey.
You really need 10 days minimum to do the Ring Road, two weeks would be best if you plan on tackling the Westfjords as well. Depending on the amount of time you have, you’ll likely be spending each night at a different accommodation, or campsite in your camper van. Either way you’ll be living out of your car!
Just make us one promise: Don’t stop in the middle of the road! There are so many amazing sights, and coincidently gravel pull offs that generally correspond with them. Find one and pull off safely because the alternative can mean collision or causing traffic (remember, one lane for one direction!).
Now there is just one question, clockwise or counter clockwise?
+Use these *Essential Tips* for planning the trip of a lifetime.
Getting Used to the Lingo:
+Ring Road: Also known as Route 1, the 828 mile (or 1,332KM) road circles the island. It is almost entirely two lanes wide, one lane going in each direction. There are blind curves, single lane bridges, and many long portions are unpaved.
+Golden Circle: The most popular tourist route in Iceland, daytrippable from the capital city Reykjavík. Attractions include waterfalls, a geothermal area, and hot springs. A great substitute for those who do not have time to do the entire Ring Road, it is Iceland in miniature.
+F-Road: For the roads that lead into the Highlands (center of the country), 4WD is REQUIRED. Experience comes in handy for challenging conditions such as steep mountains, intense mud, and river crossings. These roads are closed in the winter.
+Gravel Protection: Since many portions of the Ring Road are unpaved, it is a good idea to get this insurance and drive carefree.
+Fjord: A geological term for a long and narrow inlet of the sea between high cliffs – typically formed by glaciers.
+Foss: Something you will see attached to many Icelandic words, translates to waterfall.
Let’s get down to some area highlights…
Reykjavik: The Capital City
What to do:
+Hallgrímskirkja is the most widely recognized manmade structure in the country, you just have to see it.
+Sun Voyager pays homage to Viking heritage, it is a sleek sculpture with a seaside setting.
+Harpa is a stunning concert hall, you’ll want to check it out whether you’re just passing by or catching a show.
+In on a Saturday? Kolaportið is a market downtown only open one day a week, you’ll find the best deals around for wool sweaters, lava jewelry, plus you can sample fermented shark and licorice for free!
+Kvika is a semi-secret hot spring in the middle of the city, just deep enough for a fabulous foot-soak.
Where to Eat:
+Sægreifinn offers soulful lobster stew and the freshest seafood skewers, it’s actually affordably priced!
+Café Loki is right across from the famous church and it has a variety of traditional foods to eat.
+Brauð & Co is a phenomenal bakery, the legendary cinnamon croissant is every bit as good as they say.
Daytrip Hikes:
+Glymur is a spectacular trek to the tallest waterfall in Iceland.
+Esjan has a very local feel, beautiful views, and great workout.
The Golden Circle: Iceland in Miniature
+Bruarfoss is the bluest waterfall in Iceland and one of the most difficult places to find. Look forward to my future post where I’ll help you track it down.
+Geysir is one of the most epic of geothermal activity sites, try and snap a shot of that blue bubble before it bursts.
+Friðheimar Restaurant is located in a green house, filled with rows of tomatoes! Such a unique place to dine.
+Faxi is maybe the least known waterfall in the area, for those who enjoy something off the beaten path.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Filled with Wonder
+Kirkjufellsfoss is one of the most iconic sights in the country, an artfully carved mountain framed with waterfalls.
+Landbrotalaug Hot Springs has a secret hot pot where you can soak in waters up to your neck, if you can find it.
+Djúpalónssandur is a seaside area with intense formations, powerful waves, and a site to test your strength.
+Hellnar has a hike with incredible cliffs and arches by the seashore.
Westfjords: Quiet & Remote
+Hellulaug Hot Spring sits right beside the ocean, a slice of heaven.
+Latrabjarg Cliffs are best visited during puffin season, but still a staggering sight and quite the exciting drive to get there.
+Dynjandi is one of Iceland’s most gorgeous waterfalls, located along a long stretch of unpaved road.
+Ísafjörður is my favorite town of the region with great hiking and restaurants.
+ Museum of Icelandic Sorcery & Witchcraft has stories that will keep you talking for the entire road trip!
Akureyri: Second Most Populous City
+Arctic Botanical Garden displays biodiversity you might not expect to survive so far up north.
+Akureyri Hot Dog Stand has tuna dogs for those who don’t eat the regular kind!
+Brynja offers the best local ice cream you will find in Iceland.
Mytavn: Packed with Sights!
+Grjotagja Cave was featured in Game of Thrones, but even if you aren’t a fan the turquoise water is mesmerizing.
+Krafla includes hiking through geothermal areas, lava fields, and a free power plant museum.
East Coast
+Hengifoss was my personal favorite waterfall, out of the dozens we hiked to, on account of the red strata.
+Café Klausturkaffi is an affordable and amazing buffet filled with delicious local foods, in a turf house no-less.
South Coast: Glaciers & Icebergs
+Jökulsárlón is a dreamy lagoon filled with the bluest icebergs and resident seals! Stay tuned for tips on it’s lesser known counterpart.
+Skaftafell National Park allows hikers to get up close and personal with a glacier.
+Skogar is one of the most well known falls in the country, but there is another amazing waterfall no more than 5 minutes down the road…without the crowds.
Rekyjanes Pennsula: More Than the Blue Lagoon & Airport
+Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River was the most rewarding hike of the trip, because at the end you get to soak in the steamy river.
+Giantess Cave is the best place for kids, or kids at heart, to experience local folklore.
+Hólmsberg Lighthouse was not easy to find, but it so cheery and yellow you’ll be happy you looked!
Stay tuned for more hidden gems, details, and directions for all things Iceland. Have you been to Iceland? What are your favorite places?!