9-Day Self-Drive Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland & Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Day two of your self-drive tour of Iceland's Ring Road sees you travel to some of the best-known natural phenomena in Iceland on the Golden Circle route.

The Thingvellir National Park is the first stop on the Golden Circle sightseeing route. Here, you can walk between the rift valley of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, snorkel in the Silfra fissure, and explore an area that played a massive role in Iceland's heritage. 

The Thingvellir National Park was the original site of the world's longest-running representative parliament. Iceland's parliament was established here in 930 AD. 

You can opt for a snorkeling tour here in the Silfra ravine, which has some of the most transparent waters in the world. Participants need to be comfortable in the water and be able to swim.

Next is the geothermal valley of Haukadalur, where you can see the geysers Strokkur and Geysir. Geysir is inactive now, but Strokkur erupts every five to 10 minutes to heights of around 66 feet (20 meters). 

Finally, one of Iceland's most popular attractions is a few miles away, the mighty Gullfoss waterfall. A pathway takes you right to the water's edge, where you can get a real sense of the enormous, natural power of the falls. 

After seeing the Gullfoss waterfall, you could take a snowmobiling tour on the fantastic Langjokull glacier. You can opt for a horse-riding tour if this isn't for you.

A sight often missed in this area is the crater of Kerid, which has a beautiful azure pool at its bottom. After taking some photos here, head to the South Coast, visiting the majestic Seljalandsfoss waterfall and the equally breathtaking Skogafoss waterfall.

Along the coast near Vik, take a slight detour to stop and admire the black volcanic sand beach and the dramatic Dyrholaey and Reynisdrangar rock formations. Another sight along the way is the magnificent Myrdalsjokull glacier. 

You'll spend the night at your accommodation in South Iceland.

Spend the third day of your nine-day self-drive tour of Iceland's Ring Road, taking in the many sights and optional activities available in the beautiful Skaftafell nature reserve area of the Vatnajokull National Park. 

Spanning over 2982 square miles (4800 square kilometers), this breathtaking reserve boasts diverse landscapes and natural wonders. Towering glaciers, majestic ice-capped peaks, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls create a surreal and awe-inspiring environment.

You'll find many hiking trails tailored for all abilities, including one leading to the beautiful Svartifoss waterfall. Svartifoss is a stunning waterfall framed by basalt columns.

Before you head to Skaftafell nature reserve, you can opt for an exciting ice cave tour from Vik, where you'll visit a unique cave in Myrdalsjokull glacier. You'll see beautiful ice formations and deep crevasses.

Doing a glacier hike in the Skaftafell area is highly recommended. It is an exhilarating and unforgettable experience. Equipped with crampons and ice axes, visitors can explore awe-inspiring features like ice caves, deep crevasses, and crystal-clear blue ice. 

Experienced guides lead the way, sharing their knowledge about the glacier's formation, history, and unique characteristics.

When you're back on the road, you will get the chance to see the quaint village of Kirkjubaejarklaustur, home to serene landscapes and rich history. 

You will then head to one of Iceland's top attractions, the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, where icebergs break from a glacier and sail serenely towards the ocean. 

You can enjoy a cruise alongside the massive icebergs on a zodiac or amphibious boat if you would like. If you decide not to join a boat tour, you can enjoy some spectacular views.

After absorbing the sights here, meander to the nearby Diamond Beach, where pieces of ice wash ashore and lie glittering on black sands. 

You'll spend the night in one of the countryside accommodations in Southeast Iceland.

On the fourth day of your self-drive tour of Iceland's Ring Road, you'll leave the smooth, black sands of South Iceland and head into the mountains and fjords of the east coast. 

Trailing the roads up and down, you can enjoy idyllic fishing villages and scattered farms, providing an authentic taste of old Iceland. You can take your time today and stop where you'd like.

The area is known for its wildlife. It is home to puffins on the coast and reindeer in the mountains. So, regardless of if you're on a mountaintop or in a fjord, there is always something to look for. 

You'll pass through Iceland's largest forest, Hallormsstadaskogur. Encompassing approximately 460 square miles (740 square kilometers), it is the country's largest forest and a true haven for nature enthusiasts. The woodland's diverse ecosystem comprises birch, spruce, and pine trees, interspersed with picturesque walking trails and tranquil lakes. 

This enchanting landscape offers many recreational activities, including hiking, camping, and birdwatching. Hallormsstadaskogur is also home to several species of birds, making it a birdwatcher's paradise. 

You'll also have the opportunity to stop at Lagarfljot lake. Spanning around 33 square miles (53 square kilometers), it captivates visitors with its tranquil beauty and enigmatic legends. 

One of the most famous tales revolves around the Lagarfljot worm, a mythical creature believed to dwell in the lake's depths. According to local folklore, sightings of the serpent-like creature date back centuries, adding an air of intrigue and wonder to the lake's allure. 

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and dense forests, Lagarfljot offers stunning views and ample opportunities for fishing and boating.

Next, you'll go to Egilstadir, where you'll explore before heading to your comfortable accommodation here or in one of the villages nearby in East Iceland.

Day five of your road trip along Iceland's Ring Road brings you north to the Lake Myvatn area. 

This location is known for its impressive geothermal landscapes, including the Namaskard Pass, the Skutustadagigar pseudo-craters, and Krafla mountain, one of Iceland's most visited volcanoes.

The hot spring lava cave of Grjotagja is one of the remarkable beauties of this area. 

Inside the cave, you will find a thermal spring with crystal-clear, azure waters that maintain a constant temperature throughout the year. The cave became famous for its appearance in the popular television series "Game of Thrones."

It is also highly recommended that you visit the dramatic lava formations at Dimmuborgir lava field, otherwise known as 'the Dark Fortress.' 

The area is dotted with towering lava rock formations, caves, and arches, creating a mystical atmosphere that feels like stepping into a mythical realm. 

Exploring Dimmuborgir offers a unique opportunity to wander through maze-like trails and marvel at the intricate and eerie formations. Dimmuborgir has also inspired many legends and folklore tales with its haunting beauty and dramatic scenery.

You should also consider visiting the silica waters of the Myvatn Nature Baths, the perfect way to relax after a full day of sightseeing before heading to Akureyri. 

The warm, mineral-rich waters provide a soothing retreat amidst the stunning volcanic landscapes, making it a popular destination for visitors seeking wellness and tranquility.

As you head onto Akureyri, drive through the Jokulsargljufur part of the Vatnajokull National Park to visit Dettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in Europe.

If you wish to opt for a whale watch, detour to Husavik, the whale-watching capital of Europe, to enjoy this incredible treat. You can also add puffin-watching to your excursion.

You'll spend the night in Akureyri, one of the largest towns in Iceland, also known as the capital of the north. Your accommodation will be in the town or in a nearby village in North Iceland.

On day seven of your tour of the Ring Road, you'll head to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula to enjoy the sights on offer there. The Snaefellsnes Peninsula is home to diverse landscapes of lava fields, black sand beaches, and glaciers.

After enjoying breakfast at your accommodation, you'll set out for the village of Stykkisholmur on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Known for its picturesque setting and rich cultural heritage, Stykkisholmur offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and small-town charm. 

The town is characterized by its colorful wooden houses, quaint streets, and stunning views of the surrounding fjords and mountains. Visitors can explore the local museums, enjoy fresh seafood at charming restaurants, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery from the nearby hills. 

From there, you can explore the area's unique sights, including the Snaefellsjokull glacier in the Snaefellsjokull National Park. This magnificent glacier and stratovolcano is often called the "Jewel of West Iceland," as it captivates visitors with its mystical aura and dramatic beauty.

Snaefellsjokull gained fame through Jules Verne's novel "Journey to the Center of the Earth," where it appeared as the entrance to an underground world. 

The glacier is a prominent landmark, visible from miles away, and is surrounded by stunning landscapes, including lava fields, black sand beaches, and rugged cliffs. Its icy peak offers breathtaking panoramic views.

You can also visit Dritvik cove. Known for its rugged beauty, Dritvik cove features dramatic cliffs, black pebble beaches, and crashing waves. The remnants of a historic fishing village add a sense of history and charm to this remote and picturesque spot.

You can also stop at the small, charming hamlets of Arnarstapi, Hellnar, and Budir. There are many beautiful locations to see, whether you are fascinated by geology, history, or bird-watching, so set out early to make the most of them.

You'll spend the night in comfortable accommodation in the Snaefellsnes area.

On the eighth day of your summer self-drive Ring Road tour, you'll visit West Iceland to explore more remarkable attractions.

Explore West Iceland with its diverse attractions, including the Icelandic Settlement Centre in Borgarnes, and Deildartunguhver, the largest hot spring in Europe. It pumps 50 gallons (180 liters) of boiling water per second. 

The water from Deildartunguhver is used for heating nearby towns, including Borgarnes and Akranes. Visitors can witness the raw power of nature as steam rises from the bubbling hot spring, creating an impressive display. 

There are also walking paths and observation platforms for visitors to safely explore and admire this natural wonder. 

Further along, be sure to visit the captivating Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls. 

Hraunfossar, which translates to "Lava Falls," is a unique natural wonder where crystal-clear water cascades out from the lava fields, creating a stunning and picturesque sight. 

In contrast, Barnafoss, or "Children's Falls," is known for its turbulent and mighty flow, surrounded by dramatic rock formations. Both waterfalls offer a mesmerizing blend of natural beauty and geological intrigue. 

Visitors can explore the walking paths that wind along the rivers, providing breathtaking views of the waterfalls and the surrounding scenic landscapes.

History buffs may also enjoy visiting Snorrastofa Cultural and Medieval Centre, the medieval research institute in Reykholt, where the early settler Snorri Sturluson wrote the beloved saga Heimskringla in the 13th century.

You can take a lava tubing tour in Vidgelmir cave or travel down the artificial channels inside the magnificent Langjokull glacier. If neither appeals, you can take a tour where you descend into a dormant volcano's vast, beautiful magma chamber. 

All three excursions are fascinating and exhilarating.

On the way back to Reykjavik, take a short break at Fossatun, a waterfall said to be guarded by a troll woman named Drifa.