Five Days in Iceland

After a red-eye flight to Keflavik, where we arrived at a bustling airport at 6am, my partner and I wasted no time getting to our rental car and starting the drive to Southern coast of Iceland.

Our goal was to make it to Vik to see the black sand beach and stop at as many waterfalls along the way. The locals at the Blue Car informed us that we would be lucky to catch the Northern Lights at any point during our stay as we came during a full moon period, which makes Northern Lights viewing difficult and rare.

After starting our three-hour drive to Vik, we stopped about halfway in Selfoss for breakfast and coffee at GK Bakarí, before heading to Vik. As the sun slowly began to rise, we made it to the Black Sand Beach, where we stumbled against the intense winds as our feet gave way to the volcanic ground beneath us and admired the Basalt rock formations.

We then headed back toward Selfoss, stopping at the waterfalls along the way including Seljalandsfoss, Irafoss and Skogafoss, where we climbed 527 steps to the top for some incredible views of the frozen Icelandic landscape. With our destination of the night is 360 Hotel and Spa.

A warm welcome form the owners and on-site pup was just what we needed after a day of frigid Icelandic winds. Our room was large yet cozy. After taking hot showers, we then decided to enjoy the indoor spa with the provided robes and slippers. After fully warming and relaxing, we dressed for dinner, which is served in the main lobby where all the guests of the small but chic hotel can socialize.

After dinner, and a long day, we settled into our room for the night. We opened the curtains of the floor-to-ceiling windows in hopes of catching a sight or two of the Northern Lights. We were gifted several hours of the dancing lights, although at times faint, it was still a memorable experience from start to finish.

I highly recommend 360 Hotel & Spa to anyone looking to stay a night or more in south Iceland. The hotel is remote which makes it a relaxing escape along with it's indoor and outdoor spa. It's approximately 15 minutes to Selfoss, a cute town with plenty of places to eat and shop. There are also many iconic landmarks within driving distance to 360 Hotel & Spa including Skogafoss, Kerid Crater, Fridheimar, Geysir, the list goes on!

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Iceland. In need of further inspiration? Check out Shivani Patel’s guide, Iceland Summer: A Five-Day Adventure.