Ultimate 8-Day Road Trip Around Iceland

Start your journey by heading west from Reykjavik towards the picturesque Snæfellsnes Peninsula. If you need to pick up any last-minute items, Costco is a convenient stop along the way where you can also save on gasoline. The waterfall at Snæfellsnes is truly beautiful, and what makes it even more special is the hidden canyon behind it. Surrounding cliffs provide stunning views of the sea, and if you're lucky, you might spot mountain goats grazing peacefully. Take some time to drive to Arnarstapi Cliffs, where you can soak in breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and crashing waves.

Grundarfjörður is home to Mount Kirkjufell, visible from anywhere in town. Since it is also a cruise port, many visitors explore the area by ship and enjoy the park. This could be an excellent place to spend an extra day. Hopefully, you'll get lucky and see the puffins. Take a boat tour and enjoy the "hot pots" – the local swimming holes. I took the car ferry from Stykkishólmur to Ísafjarðarbær, which was a huge highlight, allowing me to see the entire area and enter the Westfjords by sea. Be sure to go out of your way to visit the Storm Gljúfrafoss falls. These might have been the most impressive falls of the trip, but you'll feel that way about many of the falls as you continue to be blown away by the beauty, the water and the spray.

This area boasts a tremendous amount of diverse birdlife. It's a great place for seal watching or even taking a seal cruise. Horsemanship is a big deal throughout the entire country, and horseback riding here is quite different from riding in the US. Icelandic horses are a unique breed known for their small stature, gentle temperament and distinctive gaits, including the smooth "tölt." Riding these horses offers a special experience as you traverse the stunning landscapes of the region. There are many opportunities to join guided tours that take you through scenic trails, providing a unique way to explore the natural beauty of Húnaþing Vestra. There are also many opportunities to enjoy good pools and hot springs in the area. Be sure to visit the Viking House, a fascinating historical site that provides insight into the region's rich Viking heritage.

Húsavík is known for being one of the best locations for whale watching in Iceland. You can also check out the whale museum, which offers fascinating insights into these magnificent creatures. The Bláskógabyggð falls are incredibly powerful, and you can feel the spray landing on your face and body. The Haukadalur Geothermal Field features some of the most amazing geysers you will ever see. They erupt randomly, creating a spectacular sight that should not be missed.

Silfra is a narrow volcanic canyon filled with crystal-clear glacial water that has a vibrant blue hue, spread over a massive lava field. The water is so clear because it has been filtering through the lava for 100–200 years. This dive is consistently rated as one of the top ten dives in the world. It is located between the tectonic plates of Europe and America, offering a unique underwater experience. Seljalandsfoss is another waterfall not to be missed. Make sure to plan to walk all the way around the back of the falls, as the path is part of the trail. Bring your rain jacket and good shoes, as you will get quite wet. This short walk is enjoyable for all ages, from kids to seniors.

The area around Höfn is renowned for its diverse attractions. From Diamond Beach and the Solheimasandur Plane Wreck on the beach to volcano and glacier hikes, there's plenty to explore. Skógafoss, with its basalt rocks and cliffs, is an incredible place to visit as well. Skaftafell National Park and Vatnajökull offer opportunities for glacier hikes and volcanic ice hikes. As the glaciers continue to melt, they provide ever-changing landscapes every few months. The meeting point for the volcano hike was the Soup Restaurant in Höfn, a great place to enjoy a traditional Icelandic bowl of soup for lunch or dinner.

To wrap up this incredible journey, you must explore all that Reykjavik has to offer. I recommend visiting the statue of Leif Eriksson in front of the church, the Perlan museum and the Harpa music hall. Take a stroll on the beach and along Laugavegur to get a feel for the culture of this city, which is the heart of the country. I also visited the Sky Lagoon and found it amazing. I loved the modern yet tranquil and relaxing atmosphere, perfect for simply soaking in the geothermal waters. The views from the marina are spectacular, making it a must-visit spot for any trip or stopover in Iceland.

Dinner Recommendations:

Sumac Grill:

Sumac Grill offers a delightful fusion of Middle Eastern and Icelandic flavors. Located in Reykjavik, it's known for its creative dishes that incorporate locally sourced ingredients with Middle Eastern spices. Popular menu items include lamb dishes, seafood prepared with unique spices and vegetarian options that showcase Icelandic produce. The restaurant's cozy atmosphere and friendly service make it a great dining choice for experiencing a blend of Icelandic and Middle Eastern cuisine.

Efstidalur II: Farm-Fresh Goodness in Iceland

Efstidalur II is a gem in Iceland's Golden Circle, where you dine right on a dairy farm. Their burgers, made from their own beef, are seriously delicious. Don't miss their creamy milkshakes and ice cream, all homemade. It's a relaxed spot with views of cows grazing nearby — a perfect taste of Icelandic farm life.