One Week North Iceland Expedition

Today, you'll journey north along the famous Ring Road to Iceland's capital of the north, Akureyri.

There are, however, plenty of great spots to check out along the way. For instance, you should visit Deildartunguhver, home to the largest hot spring in Europe. This geothermal wonder boasts a rapid flow rate of 380 pints (180 liters) per second.

However, it has a constant temperature of 207 F (97 C), which is dangerous when you get too close.

You should also visit the picturesque neighboring waterfalls of Hraunfossar and the more powerful Barnafoss. Hraunfossar is a series of waterfalls streaming from the Hallmundarhraun lava field. The waterfalls flow from ledges of rocks and pour into the Hvita river. On the other hand, Barnafoss is a rapid waterfall with a rich history and intriguing folklore.

If you're a big history buff, visiting Reykholt is a must. Located 11 miles (18 kilometers) from Barnafoss, this small village was the home of the famous poet of the early settler Snorri Sturluson, famous for writing the Saga Heimskringla in the 13th century.

We recommend a stop at the waterfall, Fossatun. Ancient folklore states the waterfall is guarded by a troll woman named Drifa. 

For another dose of history and folklore, a quick visit to the Icelandic Settlement Center in Borgarnes is also a must. The place will help you understand the story of one of Iceland's most cherished heroes, Egill.

While in this region, you can also make a quick stop at the delightful Krauma Geothermal Baths for some natural rest. Alternatively, you can take in some added adventure by joining a tour of Vidgelmir cave.

After you get to Akureyri, you should explore its many landmarks. These include the iconic church in the city center, a variety of boutique shops, some very creative galleries, and the delightfully peaceful botanical gardens. Make sure you also try some of Iceland's best ice cream from the ice cream shop, Brynja.

One of the best ways to enjoy the dramatic nature of the surrounding area is through a horse riding tour. You'll get to ride on the iconic and stylish Icelandic horse across the incredible terrains of North Iceland. You'll experience the comfortable and unique gait associated with this horse breed.

After a thrilling day, you'll retire to your accommodation in North Iceland for the night.

On the third day of your trip, you'll have a couple of options for spending your day, depending on how much driving you prefer.

If you enjoy driving longer distances, you should travel the Arctic Coast Way. You'll want to make sure you set off early to give yourself enough time to complete this route.

On this journey, you'll first visit the quiet fishing village of Svalbardseyri. It's iconic for its black sand beaches and perfectly contrasting orange lighthouse. Interestingly, this village only has about 245 inhabitants and has a geothermal pool that only opens during summer.

Next, you'll head 20 miles (32 kilometers) to Grenivik, a small town offering the most spectacular views of the Eyjafjordur fjord. Take some time to breathe in your surroundings in this town. If you're keen on photography, this is the perfect setting to get some dramatic photos.

These towns are lesser-known hidden gems that only some include in their tour itineraries. It's a great way to enjoy a couple of unique spots away from the crowds.

However, if you're keen to drive less and prefer more sightseeing, you should skip the two towns and head directly to the Diamond Circle trail.

Firstly, you'll head across the fjord from Akureyri and north towards the town of Husavik. Known as the whale-watching capital of Europe, summer is the perfect time to join a tour and check out some of these magnificent creatures of the deep with your own eyes.

Husavik also hosts the famous Geosea Geothermal Sea Baths, which allow guests to enjoy bathing in naturally warm seawater in a very picturesque setting. It's also a great way to relax along your journey.

Next, you'll drive towards the vast horseshoe-shaped Asbyrgi canyon, said to be shaped by the stamping of Odin's eight-legged horse (Sleipnir) from Norse mythology. A little further along this route and you'll find the most powerful waterfall in Europe, Dettifoss. It's well-known for its ominous presence, and it was also featured in the hit movie Prometheus.

After a day of sightseeing, you'll retire for the night in your accommodation in Northeast Iceland.

On your fourth day, you'll explore the volcanic region of the Lake Myvatn area. It's the perfect time to visit in summer with the snow and ice melted. The season will reveal a landscape of impressive views across the lake surrounded by nesting birds who arrive to nest for the season.

One of the most impressive spots in this region is the Dimmuborgir lava fields, which translates to "the dark fortress." It was formed around 2,300 years ago following an eruption. Check out the area's caves, caverns, and large stacks of rocks.

Though not an actual fortress, the lava formed some incredible shapes resembling castles, turrets, and towers. Its somewhat ominous presence led those in bygone eras to believe it was one of the entrances to hell itself.

Spend some time at the Namaskard geothermal area just past the mountain pass. This surreal environment pulsates with steam vents and poisonous gasses. It's also a landmark not to be missed.

The area features slopes and springs, with the ground showing colorful streaks. You'll see vivid colors like red, green, yellow, and orange, adding to the area's unique character. However, Namaskard doesn't have vegetation mainly because of the soil's heat and acidity.

Alternatively, you can join a day tour of Askja volcano to discover Iceland's incredible otherworldly lunar-like landscapes. It will better explain why this region is the testing ground for the upcoming Mars mission.

After another beautiful day in the volcanic paradise of North Iceland, take your time to relax and rejuvenate in the soothing geothermal waters of the nearby Myvatn Nature Baths under the glorious midnight sun.

Since 2004, the steam baths and heated pools have evolved into something comparable to the Blue Lagoon spa. The heated pools surround a large lagoon with temperatures ranging from 100 to 104 F (38 to 40 C). In addition, the water contains minerals that benefit people with skin and respiratory problems.

As you end another day of adventure, you'll retire once more in your accommodation in the North.

Today, you'll make your way back to Reykjavik. En route, many worthy detours await.

For instance, you can come off of the Ring Road and visit the Vatnsnes peninsula. Check out the most visited spot of Hvitserkur. This strange basalt rock stack is a remnant of a dormant volcano.

Hvitserkur stands 49 feet (15 meters) tall, protruding from Hunafloi Bay. Folklore says the rock stack used to be a troll from the peninsula. It was so angry at Iceland's conversion to Christianity that it tried to rip down the bells of a convent. 

While consumed by anger, the troll failed to notice the rising sun. As a result, the sunlight petrified him and turned him into the "Troll of Northwest Iceland."

Today, the basalt rock stack is a nesting ground for various birdlife. Shags, seagulls, and fulmars are some of the most common bird species around the area.

It's now a fan favorite of photographers for its bizarre shape and beautiful setting. Frequently, travelers ask, "Does it resemble a drinking elephant or a dragon more?"

If you continue around the peninsula, you'll find several excellent stops to capture more beautiful photos. Most notably, around the western side, near the small settlement of Illugastadir, you'll see a local seal colony with the backdrop of Iceland's Westfjords in the distance.

Shortly after, you'll pass through the small town of Hvammstangi and rejoin the Ring Road on your way back to Reykjavik. If you're feeling extra adventurous on this day, you can take a helicopter tour over Iceland's vast geothermal areas from the domestic airport in Reykjavik.

Alternatively, if you arrive back in Reykjavik in good time, you can join a tour entering the empty magma chamber of the Thrihnukagigur volcano on the Reykjanes peninsula.

After an exciting day of adventure and exploration, you'll spend your final night in Iceland in Reykjavik.