Are you ready for an adventure? Buckle up and join us on a road trip through Iceland’s iconic Ring Road. This stunning route takes you around the entire island, passing by breathtaking landscapes, picturesque villages, and natural wonders that will leave you in awe. From towering waterfalls to black sand beaches, from geothermal hot springs to glacier lagoons – we’ve got it all covered in this guide of the best stops along the Ring Road. So grab your camera and get ready to discover why Iceland is truly a land of fire and ice!
Introduction to Iceland
Iceland is a country of extremes. It is home to some of the largest glaciers in Europe, as well as active volcanoes, geothermal springs, and black sand beaches. With so much to see, it’s no wonder that Iceland has become a popular tourist destination.
The best way to see Iceland is by taking a road trip around the island. The Ring Road, which circles the island, is the perfect way to explore all that Iceland has to offer. Here are some of the best stops along the way:
The Ring Road: What Is It?
The Ring Road is a 830-mile long route that circumnavigates Iceland. It’s the main road that connects all of Iceland’s major towns and cities, making it the ideal way to see the country. The best way to experience the Ring Road is by taking a road trip!
There are plenty of things to see and do along the way. Here are some of the best stops:
1. Reykjavik – Start your journey in Iceland’s capital city! There’s plenty to see and do here, from exploring museums and art galleries to checking out live music venues and cafes.
2. Thingvellir National Park – This stop is a must for anyone interested in geology or history. Thingvellir is home to some of the world’s oldest rocks, as well as being the site of Iceland’s first parliament.
3. Vatnajökull National Park – Another great stop for nature lovers! Vatnajökull is Europe’s largest glacier, and there are plenty of hiking trails in the area for you to explore.
4. Hvítárvatn Lake – This beautiful lake is located in Vatnajökull National Park. It’s perfect for a refreshing swim on a hot day!
5. Myvatn Nature Baths – These ge
Planning Your Trip: Tips and Considerations
When planning your trip to Iceland, there are a few things to keep in mind. The first is the time of year you plan to visit. Iceland is a very popular destination in the summer, so if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder season (May-June or September-October). Keep in mind that weather can be unpredictable, so come prepared for all conditions.
Another thing to consider is your budget. Iceland is not a cheap country to visit, but there are ways to save money. One way is to use Couchsurfing or Airbnb instead of staying in hotels. Another way is to cook your own meals instead of eating out all the time. And lastly, make sure to take advantage of free activities like hiking and sightseeing.
When it comes to driving around Iceland, remember that the roads can be challenging. The best way to deal with this is to rent a 4×4 vehicle and come prepared with a good map (we recommend using the app Maps.me). When driving, always be aware of conditions and never attempt to cross a river unless you know it’s safe.
By following these tips, you’ll be sure to have a great trip!
Stops Along the Ring Road
There are so many incredible stops along Iceland’s Ring Road, it can be hard to know where to start. Here are a few of our favourites:
1. Reykjavik – Of course, no road trip through Iceland would be complete without a stop in the capital city. Reykjavik is full of character, with its colourful houses, lively nightlife and stunning views. Don’t miss out on visiting the iconic Hallgrimskirkja church and taking a dip in one of the city’s many geothermal pools.
2. Thingvellir National Park – This beautiful park is home to the Almannagjá gorge, as well as the site of the world’s oldest parliament. Thingvellir is also located on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, making it a truly unique place to visit.
3. Vatnajökull National Park – This massive national park is home to Europe’s largest glacier, as well as an active volcano (the only one in Europe!). Vatnajökull is an absolutely breathtaking place and well worth a visit on your road trip.
4. Hvítárvatn Lake – This glacial lake is one of Iceland’s most popular tourist destinations, and it’s easy to see why. Hvítárvatn is surrounded by pristine nature and offers stunning views at every turn. Be sure to take a dip in the lake’s waters – they
– Akureyri
Akureyri is a charming town located in Iceland’s north. It’s often called the “Capital of the North” and is known for its lively culture and beautiful scenery. The town is situated between mountains and fjords, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking. Akureyri also has a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of bars and clubs to keep you entertained. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous road trip or a relaxing getaway, Akureyri is sure to please.
– Höfn
Höfn is a small town located in southeastern Iceland. It is the capital of the municipality of Hornafjörður and has a population of about 2,000 people. The town is located on the shores of the fjord of the same name, at the end of the Öxarfjörður fjord. Höfn is a popular stop for tourists travelling around Iceland on the Ring Road, as it is home to many businesses and services catering to travellers.
Some of the main attractions in Höfn include the Höfnin Maritime Museum, which chronicles the town’s history as a fishing port; the Vatnajökull National Park, which includes Iceland’s largest glacier; and Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon where icebergs float.
Höfn also offers many activities and tours for tourists, such as boat trips on the fjord, glacier hikes, ATV tours, and horseback riding. There are also several restaurants and cafes in town serving up fresh seafood caught from the nearby waters. With so much to see and do, Höfn is an ideal stop for anyone exploring Iceland’s stunning landscapes.
– Egilsstaðir
Egilsstaðir is a town in East Iceland, and the largest settlement in the Egilsstaðir municipality. It is located on the banks of the Lagarfljót River, near where the river flows into the enormous Lake Lagarfljót. Egilsstaðir is a popular stop for travelers driving Iceland’s Ring Road, as it is home to many amenities and activities.
Some of the popular attractions in Egilsstaðir include the Lögurinn Geothermal Baths, Hengifoss Waterfall, and Hallormsstaður Forest. The town is also a good base for exploring the nearby Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon, Dettifoss Waterfall, and Hvítárvatn Lake.
– Vík í Mýrdal
Vík í Mýrdal is a small village located on the south coast of Iceland. It is situated between the glaciers Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull, making it an excellent base for exploring the area. There are plenty of hiking trails in the area, as well as a black sand beach which is perfect for watching the Northern Lights.
– Reykjavík
Reykjavík, Iceland’s capital and largest city, is a must-see for any visitor to the country. The city is home to some of Iceland’s most iconic landmarks, including the Hallgrímskirkja church and the Harpa concert hall. Reykjavík is also a great place to enjoy Icelandic cuisine, with many restaurants serving traditional dishes like lamb stew and fish soup. And no visit to Reykjavík would be complete without taking a dip in one of the city’s many hot springs!
Accommodation Options on the Ring Road
There are many different accommodation options available to those traveling along the Icelandic Ring Road. From camping and hostels to luxury hotels, there is something to suit every budget and preference.
Camping is a popular option for travelers looking to save money or connect with nature. There are dozens of campsites dotted along the route, many of which offer stunning views of the Icelandic landscape. Hostels are another affordable option, perfect for solo travelers or those looking to meet other like-minded travelers.
For those wanting a more luxurious experience, there are plenty of hotels and guesthouses to choose from. These accommodations offer a higher standard of comfort and amenities, perfect for a relaxing stop on your road trip.
Traveling Responsibly in Iceland:
When traveling to any new country, it’s important to be respectful of the local culture and environment. This is especially true when visiting a place like Iceland, which is home to some of the most beautiful and unique natural scenery in the world. Here are a few tips on how to travel responsibly in Iceland:
1. Be mindful of your impact on the environment.
2. Respect the wildlife and don’t disturb them.
3. Drive safely and stick to the speed limit.
4. Leave no trace behind – pack out all your trash.
5. Be considerate of other travelers and don’t make too much noise.
