Category: Iceland

This is a collection of places of interest in Iceland to visit as well as stay while traveling around the ring road. As well as actual stops we made. Iceland ranges from swimming in hot springs to hiking glaciers on the same day.

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SAV to JFK

We arrived in NY with the plan to spend the day in the new DeltaOne Lounge. It was nice with an actual dining room serving lunch and dinner. After ordering desert, we asked, will there be the same menu tonight, they said yes so we started to plan our next meal which became a theme for several days going forward.

During dinner, we sat next to Stan and Jennifer trying to get back to Portland due to the storm after a Viking cruise and had several tips for us for the upcoming trip.

We did get out of JFK after midnight in our DeltaOne seats for the 5 hour flight to Reykjavik. Not much of a nap in the lay down seats.

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Hallgrimskirkja, Reykjavik,

The Evangelical-Lutheran church Hallgrimskirkja is a living and thriving church in the center of Reykjavík. Hallgrímskirkja is both a national monument, dedicated to the most renowned sacred poet of Iceland, Hallgrímur Pétursson, and a mid-town parish church with a vibrant parochial life and musical activity. Hallgrímskirkja is the largest church in Iceland and towers over the centre of Reykjavík. It also houses the largest organ in the country. The tower is 73 meters high. It provides a panoramic view of Reykjavík, the surrounding mountains and the ocean stretching west to Greenland and the Americas. The tower is among the most visited tourist destinations in Reykjavík. The church was built between 1945 and 1986, and the parish is part of the Evangelical-Lutheran Church of Iceland.

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Volcano

According to a recent news article, the volcanic eruption in Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula is not expected to impact travel plans 12. The eruption is not posing any threat to life and there are no disruptions to flights to and from Iceland 2. However, the popular Blue Lagoon has been closed until December 27 due to the eruption 3. It is advisable to keep an eye on the situation and follow the latest updates from the Icelandic Met Office 3.

Two hour video of Volcano erupting in Iceland near the capital. It is almost like one of those video loops of a fireplace to watch on the TV.

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Ten best places to visit in Iceland

  • Reykjavik: The capital city of Iceland is a popular tourist destination with a vibrant nightlife, museums, and art galleries.
  • Akureyri: A charming town located in the north of Iceland, known for its skiing, hiking, and whale watching.
  • Hofn: A small fishing village located in the southeast of Iceland, known for its stunning views of the Vatnajokull glacier.
  • Vik: A village located in the south of Iceland, known for its black sand beaches and dramatic cliffs.
  • Hella: A small town located in the south of Iceland, known for its hot springs and geothermal pools.
  • Egilsstadir: A town located in the east of Iceland, known for its scenic hiking trails and waterfalls.
  • Hveragerdi: A small town located in the south of Iceland, known for its geothermal activity and hot springs.
  • Keflavik: A town located in the southwest of Iceland, known for its proximity to the Blue Lagoon and the Keflavik International Airport.
  • Selfoss: A town located in the south of Iceland, known for its scenic hiking trails and waterfalls.
  • Husavik: A town located in the north of Iceland, known for its whale watching tours and the Husavik Whale Museum.
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Ring Road Trip

The potential landmarks are marked on the map

Day 1: Arrive in Iceland, visit the Blue Lagoon

After landing at Keflavik Airport, you can drive to the nearby Blue Lagoon, one of the most popular geothermal spas in the world. Relax in the mineral-rich waters and enjoy the stunning scenery.  Then, drive to Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, and check in to your accommodation. You can spend the rest of the day exploring the city, visiting landmarks such as Hallgrímskirkja church, Harpa concert hall, and Sun Voyager sculpture.

Day 2: Snaefellsnes Peninsula

On your second day, you can drive to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, a scenic region that is often called “Iceland in miniature” because it has a bit of everything: mountains, glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls, beaches, and more. Some of the highlights include Kirkjufell mountain, Arnarstapi village, Djúpalónssandur beach, and Snaefellsjökull National Park, where you can see the glacier that inspired Jules Verne’s novel “Journey to the Center of the Earth”. You can also go on an optional whale watching tour from Grundarfjörður or Stykkishólmur.

Day 3: North Iceland

On your third day, you can continue your journey along the ring road to North Iceland. Along the way, you can stop at some of the most impressive waterfalls in the country: Hraunfossar, Barnafoss, and Goðafoss. You can also visit Akureyri, the largest town in North Iceland, and enjoy its cultural and culinary offerings. If you have time, you can also visit Húsavík, a charming fishing village that is known as the whale watching capital of Iceland.

Day 4: Mývatn, Dettifoss & Selfoss

On your fourth day, you can explore the Mývatn area, a volcanic wonderland with diverse attractions such as pseudocraters, lava fields, geothermal pools, and birdlife. You can also visit Dimmuborgir, a bizarre rock formation that resembles a castle, and Námaskarð, a geothermal area with boiling mud pots and fumaroles. From Mývatn, you can drive to Dettifoss and Selfoss, two powerful waterfalls that are located in Vatnajökull National Park.

Day 4+: East Iceland

On your fourth day afternoon, you can drive along the east coast of Iceland, which is less visited but equally beautiful. You can admire the rugged fjords and mountains that characterize this region, and stop at some of the charming villages along the way. You can also visit Stuðlagil Canyon, a stunning gorge with basalt columns and turquoise water. You can also hike to Hengifoss waterfall, one of the highest in Iceland.

Day 5: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon & Glacier Walk

On your fifth day, you can drive to one of the most spectacular sights in Iceland: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. This is a large glacial lake where icebergs from Vatnajökull glacier float and glisten in the sun. You can take a boat tour on the lagoon or walk along the shore and admire the ice sculptures. You can also visit Diamond Beach, where some of the icebergs wash up on the black sand and sparkle like diamonds. If you want to experience walking on a glacier, you can book a guided glacier hike on Svínafellsjökull or Falljökull glaciers.

Day 6: South Coast Highlights

On your six day, you can drive along the south coast of Iceland, which is packed with amazing attractions. You can visit Skaftafell National Park, where you can hike to Svartifoss waterfall or Skaftafellsjökull glacier tongue. You can also visit Vík í Mýrdal, a picturesque village with a black sand beach and Reynisdrangar rock formations. You can also stop at some of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland: Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss.

Day 6+: Golden Circle & Reykjavik

On your final afternoon, you can drive back to Reykjavik via the Golden Circle route. This is a popular tourist circuit that covers three of Iceland’s most iconic attractions: Þingvellir National Park, where you can see the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates; Geysir geothermal area, where you can see the Strokkur geyser erupt every few minutes; and Gullfoss waterfall, one of the most powerful and majestic in Iceland. After completing the Golden Circle, you can drive to Reykjavik and enjoy your last night in the city.

Day 7 depart for Scotland

This is just a sample itinerary that you can use as a reference. You can find more information and tips about the ring road on these websites: Earth Trekkers, Capture the Atlas, Expert Vagabond, Naturally by Chloe, and Adventure In You. 

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4 Day “Golden Circle Route” Iceland Itinerary

https://guidetoiceland.is/you-guide/how-to-drive-the-golden-circle

How to Drive Iceland’s Golden Circle: A Complete Guide with Maps | Guide to Iceland

Day 1: Golden Circle and Geysir Golf Course You can start your day by driving the Golden Circle route and visiting Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. Then, you can head to Geysir Golf Course, which is located near the geothermal area. This course offers stunning views of the mountains, glaciers, and geysers. You can play 18 holes or 9 holes, depending on your preference and time.

Day 2: South Coast to Vik You can continue your drive along the South Coast and stop at Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, then continue to Reynisfjara beach and Dyrholaey promontory. You can also join some optional activities, such as visiting a natural ice cave (only available from October to March), snorkeling in Silfra fissure (a crack between two tectonic plates), or horseback riding on an Icelandic horse. You can spend the night in Vik, a charming village with a church on a hill and a view of the sea stacks.

Day 3: Vik to Jokulsarlon and Húsafell You can drive back to Jokulsarlon and enjoy the glacier lagoon and Diamond Beach. You can also join an ice cave tour or a glacier hike tour if you wish. Then, you can drive to Húsafell, a farm and resort that has a golf course, a swimming pool, a hot spring, and a restaurant. The golf course is surrounded by lava fields, birch forests, and glaciers. You can play 18 holes or 9 holes, depending on your preference and time.

Day 4: Reykjavik and the Blue Lagoon You can drive to Reykjavik and explore the city’s attractions, such as Hallgrimskirkja church, Sun Voyager sculpture, Harpa concert hall, and Laugavegur shopping street. You can also visit some of the museums, such as the National Museum of Iceland, the Saga Museum, or the Icelandic Phallological Museum (a quirky collection of penises). In the afternoon, you can relax at the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa that is close to the airport. You can also try some of the spa treatments or enjoy the view of the lava fields.

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Things to see in Iceland

●     **Thingvellir National Park**: This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can see the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. You can also learn about the history and culture of Iceland, as this was the site of the first parliament. You should spend at least **2 hours** here to explore the park and its attractions.

●     **Geysir geothermal area**: This is where you can see the famous Geysir, which gave its name to all geysers in the world. Although Geysir is mostly dormant, you can still see its smaller cousin Strokkur erupt every few minutes. You can also walk around the area and see other geothermal features, such as hot springs, mud pools, and fumaroles. You should spend at least **1 hour** here to enjoy the show and take some photos.

●     **Gullfoss waterfall**: This is one of the most impressive waterfalls in Iceland, where the Hvita river plunges into a deep canyon in two stages. You can admire the waterfall from different viewpoints and feel its power and spray. You should spend at least **1 hour** here to appreciate the beauty and majesty of Gullfoss.

●     **Kerid crater lake**: This is an optional stop on the Golden Circle route, but it is worth a visit if you have time. Kerid is a volcanic crater that is filled with turquoise water and surrounded by red rocks. You can walk around the rim or descend to the lake for a closer look. You should spend at least **30 minutes** here to enjoy the scenery and take some photos.

●     **Fridheimar tomato farm**: This is another optional stop on the Golden Circle route, but it is a great place to have lunch or a snack. Fridheimar is a greenhouse that grows tomatoes all year round using geothermal energy. You can taste their fresh and delicious products, such as tomato soup, tomato juice, or tomato ice cream. You can also learn about their sustainable farming methods and see their horses. You should spend at least **1 hour** here to have a meal and a tour.

●     **Secret Lagoon hot spring**: This is yet another optional stop on the Golden Circle route, but it is a perfect way to relax after a day of sightseeing. Secret Lagoon is one of the oldest natural hot springs in Iceland, where you can soak in the warm water and enjoy the views of the surrounding nature. You can also see a small geyser that erupts every few minutes near the pool. You should spend at least **1 hour** here to unwind and rejuvenate.

●     **Seljalandsfoss waterfall**: This is one of the most iconic waterfalls in Iceland, where you can walk behind the curtain of water and get a different perspective. You can also see other smaller waterfalls nearby, such as Gljufrabui and Kvernufoss. You should spend at least **1 hour** here to explore the area and take some photos.

●     **Skogafoss waterfall**: This is another stunning waterfall in Iceland, where you can see a rainbow on sunny days. You can also climb up to the top of the waterfall for a panoramic view or hike along the river to see more waterfalls upstream. You should spend at least **1 hour** here to admire the waterfall and its surroundings.

●     **Reynisfjara beach**: This is one of the most famous black sand beaches in Iceland, where you can see the Reynisdrangar sea stacks and the basalt columns. You can also visit the nearby Dyrholaey promontory, where you can see a natural arch and a lighthouse. You should be careful of the waves and tides when visiting this beach, as they can be very dangerous. You should spend at least **1 hour** here to enjoy the views and take some photos.

●     **Skaftafell National Park**: This is part of the larger Vatnajokull National Park, where you can see glaciers, mountains, waterfalls, and forests. You can hike to Svartifoss waterfall, which is framed by black basalt columns, or join a glacier hike tour, where you can walk on the ice and see crevasses and ice caves. You should spend at least **2 hours** here to explore the park and its attractions.

●     **Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon**: This is one of the most spectacular sights in Iceland, where you can see icebergs floating on a glacial lake that connects to the ocean. You can also visit the nearby Diamond Beach, where you can see icebergs washing up on the black sand shore. You can also join a boat tour or a kayak tour on the lagoon, where you can get closer to the icebergs and see seals. You should spend at least **2 hours** here to marvel at the beauty and wonder of Jokulsarlon.

●     **Húsafell**: This is a farm and resort that has a golf course, a swimming pool, a hot spring, and a restaurant. You can play golf, swim, relax, or have a meal here. You can also visit the nearby attractions, such as the Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls, the Langjokull glacier, and the Vidgelmir lava cave. You should spend at least **2 hours** here to enjoy the facilities and the nature.

●     **Reykjavik**: This is the capital and largest city of Iceland, where you can see the Hallgrimskirkja church, the Sun Voyager sculpture, the Harpa concert hall, and the Laugavegur shopping street. You can also visit some of the museums, such as the National Museum of Iceland, the Saga Museum, or the Icelandic Phallological Museum. You should spend at least **4 hours** here to explore the city and its attractions.

●     **Blue Lagoon**: This is one of the most popular geothermal spas in Iceland, where you can soak in the mineral-rich water and enjoy the views of the lava fields. You can also try some of the spa treatments, such as silica mud mask, algae mask, or in-water massage. The Blue Lagoon is close to the airport, so you can easily catch your flight after your visit. You should spend at least **2 hours** here to relax and pamper yourself.

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Places to Stay in Iceland

A listing of the best ten, ok more, places to stay along the ring road route

View from Hotel Skogafoss
  • The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland: Located in Grindavik, Iceland, this hotel offers a luxurious spa experience and is situated near the Blue Lagoon .
  • Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon: This hotel is located near the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It has a rating of 8.6 out of 10 on Booking.com 1. Contrasting with Adventure Hotel Hof, Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon is much more comfortable: it’s an oasis of luxury in the middle of the wild Icelandic landscape!
  • Hótel Rangá: This hotel is located in the south of Iceland and offers a great location for viewing the Northern Lights. It has a rating of 9.1 out of 10 on Booking.com 2. Hotel Rangá is located in Hella on the southwest side of Iceland, right off of the popular Ring Road that encircles the island nation.  It is a prime location not only for easy access to the southern route for Iceland’s ice caves, black sand beaches, and waterfalls, but it is also only an hour and a half from the main stops along the Golden Circle. 
  • This countryside hotel is a prime location for seeing the Northern Lights because of the limited city light pollution.  The hotel even offers a wake-up phone call service if the lights appear in the middle of the night.  Warm snowsuits and cosy blankets are provided as a bonus to snuggle in while viewing this amazing show at the remote getaway.
  • Hotel Skógafoss is arguably the best hotel in Iceland for its incredible views.Firstly, it has the best views of Skógafoss waterfall; eat breakfast and sip coffee whilst you watch the rushing torrent of water from the mountains and ridges behind you. It’s rated 9.6 online for its location – no surprise there. You can also walk out to the waterfall before hordes of tourist buses arrive at around 10 am and after they leave around 3 pm. Walk up, enjoy the peaceful setting from your room, walk down to the waterfall with your coffee in hand (it’s only a few minutes walk) and bask in the glory of the meltwater from two glaciers: Eyjafjallajokull and Mýrdalsjökull. The spray from the waterfall means there are constant rainbows shining directly in front of the waterfall. You can’t go wrong with the views here.
  • Hotel South Coast: This hotel is located in the south of Iceland and offers a great central location for exploring the area. It has a rating of 9.2 out of 10 on Booking.com 3.
  • Fosshotel Núpar: This hotel is located in the south of Iceland and offers a great location for exploring the nearby glaciers and waterfalls. It has a rating of 8.5 out of 10 on Booking.com 4.
  • Hotel Vík í Mýrdal: This hotel is located in the town of Vík í Mýrdal and offers a great location for exploring the nearby black sand beaches. It has a rating of 8.9 out of 10 on Booking.com 5.
  • Puffin Hotel Vik: If you plan a trip around Iceland on the Ring Road, you’ll want to stop in Vik, Iceland, for a night or two. This charming little town is about two and a half hours from the capital city of Reykjavik, and there are many great things to see and do nearby! 
  • One of the most charming hotels in Vik is the Puffin Hotel Vík. This budget hotel is named for the puffins who nest on the nearby coast during summer. It is centrally located in Vík, and there are multiple things to do within a 10-minute walk, including horseback riding on the black sand beach and Katla Geopark Museum.  
  • ION Adventure Hotel: This hotel is located in the south of Iceland and offers a great location for exploring the nearby Thingvellir National Park. It has a rating of 8.7 out of 10 on Booking.com 6.
  • Hotel Borg: This hotel is located in the heart of Reykjavik and offers a great location for exploring the city. It has a rating of 9.1 out of 10 on Booking.com 7.
  • Hotel Rangá: This hotel is located in the south of Iceland and offers a great location for viewing the Northern Lights. It has a rating of 9.1 out of 10 on Booking.com 2.
  • Reykjavik Marina – Berjaya Iceland Hotels: This hotel is located in Reykjavik and offers a great location for exploring the city. It has a rating of 8.5 out of 10 on Booking.com 8.
  • Hotel Grímsborgir: This hotel is located in the south of Iceland and offers a great location for exploring the nearby Golden Circle. It has a rating of 9.1 out of 10 on Booking.com 9.

https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1WZi7Nih3vg1VYOnWTdWRSRbQ4BYmZQY&femb=1&ll=64.56519899278724%2C-18.207841000000013&z=6

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What to wear

What is the temperature in Iceland in August. August is one of the warmest months of the year in Iceland. The average daily temperature hovers around 50-59°F (10-15°C), but it can leap up to 77°F (25°C). Rain and chilly arctic breezes are possible, so be sure to pack for all types of weather.

You can certainly pack much lighter in August than you would during a winter trip to Iceland, but you still want to ensure you have the right items for your trip.

You’ll still want to pack a light coat for your visit, and you’ll definitely want to be well-equipped with some rain and windproof gear. Both fleece and wool are still great items to have handy in August, and a pair of gloves will also be advisable for the late nights after the sun sets and temperatures tend to cool down a bit. 

For all times of year in Iceland, if you’re planning to get out and explore, you’ll want to have a sturdy pair of hiking boots at the ready. Normal shoes do great for city activities, so you should have both on hand to easily make the switch when the time is right.

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Daylight in Iceland

During the 1st of August, Iceland normally records around 17 hours and 51 minutes of total daylight. At the end of the month on the 31st, daylight decreases to 14 hours and 37 minutes, totalling a decline of 3 hours and 14 minutes over the month of August. 

Due to Iceland still having many hours of daylight, this summer month is still a great time to take excursions into the Icelandic wilderness, without having to worry about night falling anytime soon.