The Grand Ring of Iceland: a journey through the land of ice and fire

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~ 1731 km , 12 days
Arrival, Blue Lagoon, and Volcano
Your journey through Iceland begins at Keflavík International Airport, located on the Reykjanes Peninsula. After picking up your motorhome, you will immediately immerse yourself in the otherworldly landscapes of this country. Instead of heading to the capital, your first stop will be the famous geothermal spa The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland, just a 20-minute drive from the airport. It’s the perfect way to relax and recharge after your flight.

Only a few kilometers from the lagoon lies the volcanic area of Fagradalsfjall Volcano Skali Parking P2, where recent eruptions have created new lava fields. You can walk along marked trails and see solidifying lava. In the evening, you will stay overnight at a campsite in the coastal town of Vogar.
Points of interest
One of the most famous geothermal resorts in the world. Its milky-blue waters are rich in minerals such as silica and sulfur and are believed to have healing properties. The water temperature stays at a comfortable 37–39 °C year-round. Fun fact: the lagoon’s water is completely renewed every 48 hours. It is a byproduct of the nearby Svartsengi geothermal power plant, which uses superheated underground water to generate electricity.
(This link points to one of the main parking areas where the trails begin.)
This volcanic system on the Reykjanes Peninsula had been dormant for about 800 years, but in 2021 and the following years, a series of eruptions took place here. These events offered a rare chance to witness the formation of new lava fields. Special hiking routes lead visitors to observation points, where walking along the trails allows you to see up close how solidified black lava has covered the valleys.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Today will be a long day dedicated to driving north and exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. This region is often called “Iceland in Miniature,” as it brings together nearly all types of Icelandic landscapes in one area: volcanoes, glaciers, lava fields, black beaches, and waterfalls. Leaving Grindavík, you will head north, bypass Reykjavík, and after a few hours arrive on the peninsula.

On the southern coast of the peninsula, you will stop at the famous Búðakirkja Black Church. Then your journey will continue through Snæfellsjökull National Park, located at the very western tip of the peninsula. The final highlight of the day will be Kirkjufell Mountain on the northern coast, next to a small waterfall. Overnight accommodation is planned at a campsite in the town of Hellissandur.
Points of interest
This small wooden church, painted entirely black, stands in contrast to the surrounding lava fields. It is located in solitude not far from the coast. One of the few black churches preserved in Iceland, its minimalist appearance set against the mountains makes it a very popular photography spot.
The park is located on the western tip of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Its central feature is the glacier-capped Snæfellsjökull volcano, made famous worldwide by Jules Verne’s novel Journey to the Center of the Earth, in which the entrance to the underworld was located in its crater. The park includes diverse landscapes: from lava fields and coastal cliffs to black-pebble beaches.
This freestanding mountain with its highly recognizable conical shape is located on the northern coast of the peninsula. Its name translates as “Church Mountain.” The most famous viewpoint for photographing it is from the side of the small two-tiered waterfall Kirkjufellsfoss, situated just across the road. This combination of the mountain and waterfall in the foreground makes it one of the most photographed sites in Iceland.
Sea Cliffs and Turf Houses
After breakfast, you will leave the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and begin your journey toward the northeast of Iceland. Today is dedicated to a transfer, which has been divided into two parts for your comfort. The road will take you along the coast of Húnaflói Bay. Along the way, you will make a short detour from the Ring Road to visit Hvitserkur, a striking rock formation rising from the black sand beach.

Continuing your journey, you will get a glimpse into Icelandic history and daily life with a stop at Glaumbær Turf Farm & Museum, where a preserved complex of traditional turf houses remains. This transfer gives you the chance to see how the landscape changes as you move deeper into the northern region. Overnight accommodation is planned at a campsite near the town of Varmahlíð.
Points of interest
This 15-meter basalt monolith stands in the sea off the eastern shore of the Vatnsnes Peninsula. Due to its shape, which resembles a drinking dragon or a rhinoceros, it has become a popular photography subject. The base of the rock was reinforced with concrete to prevent further erosion by the sea. At low tide, visitors can walk closer to the formation. The site is also known as a seal habitat.
This historic farm is now part of the National Museum of Iceland. Its main feature is a well-preserved complex of houses built from turf, wood, and stone. This construction method was used in Iceland for centuries as protection against the harsh climate. Visitors can enter the buildings and see how living rooms, kitchens, and utility areas were arranged, offering insight into the life of Icelanders in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Troll Peninsula and the Capital of the North
Today you will embark on one of Iceland’s most breathtaking coastal routes — around the Tröllaskagi Peninsula. This drive will take you through high mountains, deep fjords, and several tunnels. The main stop along the way will be the town of Siglufjörður, the former “herring capital,” where you can visit the award-winning Herring Era Museum.

By evening, you will arrive in Akureyri, the “Capital of the North.” After settling at a campsite, you will have time to stroll through this lively town or visit the Akureyri Botanical Garden. Overnight accommodation is planned near the city.
Points of interest
The name of this peninsula translates as “Troll Peninsula.” This mountainous region has the highest peaks outside Iceland’s central highlands. The road circling the peninsula offers views of mountains plunging steeply into the Arctic Ocean and passes through several small fishing villages.
The northernmost town on mainland Iceland, located in a narrow fjord. In the first half of the 20th century, Siglufjörður was the center of the “herring boom” and one of the country’s largest towns. Today it is a beautifully preserved historic town that reflects this turbulent era.
Iceland’s largest maritime and industrial museum, awarded the title of Best Museum in Europe. It consists of three separate buildings: one recreates the atmosphere of a 1950s harbor with moored boats, the second is a former fish processing factory, and the third a workers’ dormitory (including the “herring girls”). The museum vividly demonstrates how herring fishing shaped the economy and culture of all Iceland.
One of the northernmost botanical gardens in the world. Thanks to the local microclimate, it hosts not only about 430 species of Icelandic flora but also more than 7,000 plant species from around the world. The garden is a peaceful and pleasant place for a stroll.
Whales of Húsavík and the Waterfall of the Gods
Leaving Akureyri, you will head to the town of Húsavík, considered the whale-watching capital of Iceland. Here you will have the chance to go on a boat tour to see these ocean giants. Such tours usually last about three hours and typically depart in the morning, which is the best time to head out to sea.

In the afternoon, you will drive south to visit Goðafoss Waterfall, one of the most famous and historically significant waterfalls in the country. After exploring the falls, you will make a short transfer to your overnight stop near Lake Mývatn.
Points of interest
This small fishing town on the shores of Skjálfandi Bay has gained worldwide fame as one of the best places in Europe for whale watching. Thanks to the bay’s currents, it is rich in food, attracting many species of whales, including humpbacks, minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, and even blue whales. Several tour operators in town offer boat trips on different types of vessels.
The name of this waterfall translates as “Waterfall of the Gods.” It is connected with one of the key events in Iceland’s history. In the year 1000, during the Alþingi (Icelandic parliament), a decision was made to adopt Christianity. Returning home, the pagan priest and law speaker Þorgeir Þorkelsson, according to legend, threw the idols of the old Norse gods into this waterfall, giving it its name. The waterfall has a semicircular shape about 30 meters wide.
Lake Mývatn: Boiling Earth and Lava Labyrinths
Today is fully dedicated to exploring the many geological wonders around Lake Mývatn. This region is one of Iceland’s most volcanically active zones, with a vast number of natural attractions concentrated in a small area. You will visit the steaming geothermal area of Hverir, walk through the lava formations of Dimmuborgir, hike up to the Hverfjall crater, and step inside the Grjótagjá cave. The day can end with relaxation at the Mývatn Nature Baths. Overnight accommodation is planned at the same campsite.
Points of interest
A Martian-like landscape of bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles (cracks venting steam). The ground here is stained bright yellow, red, and orange from sulfur deposits. The air is filled with a strong smell of hydrogen sulfide. For safety, visitors must stay on wooden walkways, as the surface is dangerously hot.
The name translates as “Dark Castles.” This lava field, formed about 2,300 years ago, consists of rock formations with the most unusual shapes: arches, columns, towers, and caves. Several walking paths of different lengths run through the area. According to Icelandic folklore, Dimmuborgir is the home of the Yule Lads (Icelandic Santa figures).
An almost perfectly round tuff ring volcano, formed during a powerful eruption about 2,500 years ago. The crater’s diameter is around 1 kilometer. A hiking trail leads to the summit, taking about 20–30 minutes, and rewards you with panoramic views over the crater itself and the Lake Mývatn area.
A small lava cave containing a geothermal lake with bright blue water. In the past, locals used it for bathing, but after eruptions in the 1970s, the water temperature rose too high. The cave gained worldwide fame when it was featured in a scene of Game of Thrones.
Stuðlagil Canyon and the Gateway to the Eastfjords
After breakfast, you will say farewell to the Mývatn region and continue your journey east along the Ring Road. Today will take you to one of Iceland’s most impressive basalt formations — Stuðlagil Canyon. To fully admire its beauty, allow a few hours for a hike.

Along the way, you will make a stop at Rjúkandi Waterfall, located right by the Ring Road.
After visiting the waterfall, you will head to Egilsstaðir, the largest town and administrative center of East Iceland. It will serve as your base for rest and preparation before exploring the Eastfjords. Overnight accommodation is planned at a campsite near Egilsstaðir.
Points of interest
This canyon was long hidden under water, but after the construction of a hydroelectric dam, the river level dropped, revealing this geological wonder. The canyon’s main feature is its walls, made of massive, perfectly shaped hexagonal basalt columns. The contrast between the dark columns and the turquoise glacial waters of the Jökla River creates a striking sight. For the best views and access to the river, it is recommended to approach from the eastern side of the canyon.
This multi-tiered waterfall is located right by the Ring Road, making it very easy to access. The waters of the Rjúkandi River descend in several cascades. A short trail leads from the parking area to the waterfall, allowing visitors to get closer and take great photographs.
The largest town in East Iceland, located on the shores of Lake Lagarfljót. Unlike many coastal villages, Egilsstaðir is a modern service and transportation hub for the region. It is a convenient stop for refueling, rest, and stocking up on supplies. According to local legend, Lake Lagarfljót is home to a giant serpent, Iceland’s version of the Loch Ness Monster.
Journey through the Eastfjords
Today is dedicated to driving through the Eastfjords — one of Iceland’s most remote regions. Leaving Egilsstaðir, we recommend taking the longer but far more scenic coastal route (roads 92 and 96) instead of the shorter mountain pass along the main Ring Road. The road winds along each fjord, revealing new views of mountains, the ocean, and small fishing villages at every turn.

You will pass through Reyðarfjörður, the largest town in the Eastfjords, and Fáskrúðsfjörður, known for its French heritage. Be sure to stop in Stöðvarfjörður to visit the famous Petra’s Stone Collection. Further along the way lies the village of Djúpivogur. By evening, you will reach the southeastern part of Iceland. Overnight accommodation is planned at a campsite near Höfn.
Points of interest
This town is known for its strong historical connection with France. For many years, it served as the main base for French fishermen catching cod in Icelandic waters. This history is still alive today: street signs are bilingual, in both Icelandic and French, and the old French hospital has been beautifully restored and turned into a hotel and museum.
One of Iceland’s most touching and unique attractions. This private home and garden belonged to a local resident, Petra, who spent her entire life collecting a remarkable assortment of minerals and stones from the surrounding area. Today, her house has been turned into a museum where thousands of polished stones of all shapes and colors are on display.
A charming fishing village and a member of the “Cittaslow” movement, which promotes a slow and mindful pace of life. One of its modern attractions is the open-air art installation “The Eggs of Merry Bay” (Eggin í Gleðivík), featuring 34 large granite eggs, each representing a bird species nesting in the region.
As you approach Höfn, don’t miss Vestrahorn, one of the most photographed mountains in Iceland. Its sharp, jagged peaks rise above the black sand beach of the Stokksnes Peninsula, creating a dramatic landscape. This is the perfect place for a final photo stop before the day ends.
Realm of Ice: Glacier Lagoons and Diamond Beach
Today you will spend the day surrounded by the ice of Europe’s largest glacier — Vatnajökull. Leaving Höfn, you will head to Iceland’s most famous glacier lagoon — Jökulsárlón. Here, you can watch massive icebergs that have broken off from the glacier slowly drifting toward the ocean. Just across the road lies Diamond Beach, where chunks of ice wash up onto the black volcanic sand.

Not far away is another, less crowded glacier lagoon — Fjallsárlón. In the afternoon, you will arrive at Skaftafell Nature Reserve, where you can hike to Svartifoss Waterfall, framed by black basalt columns. Overnight accommodation is planned at a campsite near Skaftafell.
Points of interest
This deep glacial lake was formed by the melting of the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. The lagoon is filled with icebergs that can be up to 1,000 years old. Their colors range from white to bright blue, sometimes streaked with volcanic ash. Seals are often seen resting on the floating ice. Jökulsárlón has also been featured in several films, including James Bond: Die Another Day and Lara Croft: Tomb Raider.
A black-sand beach located where Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon meets the Atlantic Ocean. Waves wash shards of ice onto the shore, where they glisten in the sunlight like giant diamonds. The contrast between the transparent ice and the black volcanic sand creates a truly unique photography setting.
The name translates as “Black Waterfall.” Its most striking feature is the surrounding hexagonal basalt columns, perfectly shaped and resembling the pipes of a giant organ. These columns inspired the architect of Reykjavík’s Hallgrímskirkja church. A hiking trail from the Skaftafell visitor center leads to the waterfall; the round trip takes about 1.5 hours.
Waterfalls and Black Beaches of the South Coast
Today you will continue your journey along Iceland’s famous South Coast. Heading west, your first stop will be the Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon Fjaðrárgljúfur, a deep and winding gorge. Next, you will arrive in the area of the village of Vík, home to the world‑famous Reynisfjara Beach Reynisfjara Beach with its basalt columns, and the Dyrhólaey promontory Dyrhólaey with its massive rock arch.

Continuing along the route, you will visit one of Iceland’s most iconic sights — the DC‑3 plane wreck Solheimasandur Plane Wreck on the black sands of Sólheimasandur. The day concludes with the breathtaking Skógafoss waterfall Skógafoss, one of the largest waterfalls in the country. Overnight stay is planned at a nearby campsite.
Points of interest
The world-famous black-sand beach, known for its dramatic volcanic landscape. Its main highlights are the Reynisdrangar sea stacks rising from the ocean, a vast cave with a basalt-column ceiling, and the Gardar cliff, made of perfectly shaped hexagonal columns. The waves here can be extremely powerful and unpredictable, so visitors should exercise caution.
A headland renowned for its massive rock arch, large enough for small planes to fly through. At the top stands a lighthouse, offering sweeping views over the black-sand coastline stretching for miles in both directions. In summer, Dyrhólaey becomes an important nesting site for large colonies of puffins.
One of Iceland’s largest and most iconic waterfalls, Skógafoss is 25 meters wide with a drop of 60 meters. Visitors can walk right up to its base to feel the full force of the cascade. On sunny days, single or even double rainbows often appear in the mist. A staircase beside the falls leads to a viewing platform at the top.
Golden Circle and Arrival in the Capital
Today is dedicated to the “Golden Circle” — the most popular tourist route in Iceland. Leaving the South Coast, you’ll head inland. The first stop on the circle is the majestic Gullfoss Waterfall Gullfoss Falls. Just nearby is the Geysir geothermal area Geysir, where you’ll witness the eruption of the Strokkur geyser.

The final major highlight of the route is Þingvellir National Park Thingvellir National Park, a site of immense historical and geological significance. Here you can walk right between the tectonic plates. By evening, you’ll arrive in Reykjavík Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland. Overnight stay is planned at a nearby campsite.
Points of interest
The name “Golden Waterfall” likely comes from the golden hue of the water on sunny days. This is a two-tiered cascade: the water first plunges onto one ledge, then makes a sharp turn and crashes into a deep canyon. The power of the falls is especially striking up close.
This is home to the “Great Geysir,” which gave its name to all geysers in the world. Today, however, it rarely erupts. The real star here is the nearby Strokkur geyser, which shoots boiling water 20–30 meters high every 5–10 minutes, making it one of the most active and reliable geysers on the planet.
This site has a double significance. First, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as it was here in 930 AD that the Althing, one of the world’s oldest parliaments, was founded. Second, the park lies in a rift valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. Visitors can literally walk through the fissure between two continents.
Completion of the Journey and Return
Today marks the final day of your Icelandic adventure. In the morning, you’ll have some free time for a last stroll around Reykjavík—perhaps to buy souvenirs on the main shopping street Laugavegur or to once again admire the city’s landmarks, such as Hallgrímskirkja church or the Harpa Concert Hall.

After that, a short drive will take you back to the Reykjanes Peninsula and Keflavík International Airport. The main task for today is returning your motorhome at the rental station. With that, your great journey through the land of fire and ice will officially come to an end.
Points of interest
The world’s northernmost capital, Reykjavík is the cultural, economic, and governmental heart of Iceland. The city is known for its compact center filled with colorful houses, a lively cultural scene, and numerous museums. Its main architectural landmarks are the futuristic Hallgrímskirkja Church, reminiscent of basalt columns, and the glass Harpa Concert Hall on the waterfront. A walk through the city is a perfect way to end the journey, offering a striking contrast to the wild nature you’ve experienced in the previous days.
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