Iceland in 10 Days: The Full Ring Road 🇮🇸

Day 0: Arrival in the Land of Ice ✈️

We left Madrid at 10:00 AM and, after a 6-hour flight and the time difference, we landed in Iceland at 2:00 AM. 😴 Tired but excited, we took a taxi (ideal for the 5 of us) straight to our accommodation in Keflavik: the Blue Viking Guesthouse.

Day 1: Reykjanes, Fire & Hot Springs 🌋

We woke up, had breakfast at the hostel, and took another taxi back to the airport to pick up our rental car. 🚗 Here we had our first reality check: Icelandic traffic rules. Watch your speed limits closely and, above all, be careful with the wind when opening doors (hold them tight!). The roads are quiet, but the weather dictates the pace.
💡 Save this website to check road conditions live: umferdin.is.

🗺️ The Reykjanes Peninsula

We kicked off the adventure exploring this peninsula, a brutal UNESCO Global Geopark: this is where the Mid-Atlantic Ridge rises from the ocean. It's a volcanic zone with 100 craters, lava fields, and bird cliffs. Our first stop was the Garður Old Lighthouse, facing west where the wind was already welcoming us.

From there, we hopped over to the Gunnuhver hot springs (30 min away). It's impressive to see water shooting out at nearly 100ºC from the center of the earth. We then took a walk to the Valahnúkamöl cliffs.

📝 Note on the Blue Lagoon: We passed near these famous hot springs but decided to skip them as they tend to be very crowded. We preferred to go on our last day to the Sky Lagoon (near Reykjavík), which felt more authentic to us.

However, the Blue Lagoon is a country icon. If you don't want to miss it, you can check availability right here:

💨 Wind, Sulfur & A Tough Choice

We continued to the Krýsuvíkurberg cliffs to eat our packed lunch while watching the ocean crash against the rocks. Recharged, we visited the Krýsuvík geothermal area (get ready for the rotten egg smell—it's pure sulfur!) and the desert-like Kleifarvatn lake.

In the afternoon, we had to choose: hike up the Fagradalsfjall volcano or trek to the thermal river? 🤔 We bet on the Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River.

Day 2: The Golden Circle & Giant Waterfalls 💦

We started the day energized thanks to breakfast at Bella Apartments: fresh fruit, pastries, savory treats, and of course, typical skyr (Icelandic yogurt). Essential fuel for what's coming!

🗺️ Þingvellir National Park

First historical and geological stop. We walked through Almannagjá, the impressive gorge where you literally walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. We visited:

• Öxarárfoss: A beautiful waterfall tumbling into the rift.
• Lögberg (The Law Rock): The first Viking parliament was founded here in 930 AD. The 'Lawspeaker' recited the laws from memory atop this rock.
• Hakið: The viewpoint with a brutal panoramic view of Lake Þingvallavatn (the largest natural lake on the island).
• Þingvallakirkja: Next to this small church, you'll see simple houses; one is the Prime Minister's summer residence.

💨 Geysir: The Earth Breathes

For lunch, we headed to the Geysir area (there's a designated spot) after being blown away by Strokkur. It's the only reliably active one today: it erupts every 7-8 minutes, shooting water 15-20 meters high. Get your camera ready!

The route continues to the jewel of the day: Gullfoss. (Before that, we passed Brúararfoss, Midfoss, and Hlauptungufoss, but Gullfoss is in a league of its own). The volume and force with which the water falls in two tiers is mesmerizing. Undoubtedly, one of the TOP spots of the trip.

To wrap up the day, we visited the Kerið volcanic crater (red rock and turquoise water) before returning to Selfoss. We took a walk to see the colorful houses in the center and then rested after an intense day. 💤

Day 3: The Waterfall Route & The Black Sand Beach 🌊

Time to get wet! ☔ We were lucky with the weather, something we were extremely grateful for. We started the day touring the famous South Coast.

💦 The Waterfall Festival

• Urriðafoss: A quick stop to see this high-volume waterfall.
• Seljalandsfoss: A classic! You can walk right behind the curtain of water. Feeling the roar so close is an incredible experience (be prepared to get soaked). Note: Parking costs about 700 ISK.
• Gljúfrabúi: Right next to the previous one. You have to cross a small stream hopping on stones to enter a cleft in the rock. It's important to wear good waterproof shoes, but the photo inside the cave is 100% worth it.
• Skógafoss: One of the most perfect waterfalls in Iceland. We climbed the stairs and had our picnic at the top, right by the river's source.
• Kvernufoss: A hidden gem very close to Skógafoss (behind the museum), less touristy and absolutely beautiful.

✈️ The Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck

In the afternoon, we did the hike to the famous US Navy DC-3 plane wreck. It takes about 45 minutes (one way) walking through a desert of black sand and 'nothingness'.

📜 The Story: In 1973, the plane ran out of fuel (or there was human error) and had to make a forced landing. Fortunately, everyone survived. Since it was more expensive to recover it than to abandon it, there it stayed, becoming a tourist icon.

Due to the time we lost at the plane, we arrived late at the Dyrhólaey cliffs (famous for puffins and views).
⚠️ Watch the clock! During nesting season (May-June), the area usually closes access at 7:00 PM to protect the birds. Since it doesn't get dark in Iceland, we lost track of time and found it closed. Don't let it happen to you!

🖤 Reynisfjara: Deadly Beauty

We arrived at the most famous black sand beach: impressive basalt columns and a mystical atmosphere. If you are there in winter, Vik is a top spot to see the Northern Lights.

👽 Caves & Ice

Also in the area are Uxafótfoss and the curious Gígjagjá cave (known as the Yoda Cave due to its shape, look closely!). If you are looking for adventure, you can book the Katla Ice Cave tour here. We couldn't do it due to the summer thaw, but if your dates work, don't miss your spot!

Day 4: Skaftafell Trekking & Ice Diamonds 🧊

Moss, Canyons & Basalt

We started the day crossing the Eldhraun lava fields (that infinite carpet of green moss over black lava) to reach the Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon. We took the easy 2km route (about 40 min) to the Mögárfoss waterfall. The views of the winding canyon are cinematic!

There are many more waterfalls in the area (Rauðárfoss, Fjólafoss, Stjórnarfoss, Fagrifoss) and Lake Systravatn. We continued to Dverghamrar (basalt columns) and the Foss á Síðu waterfall.
💡 Tip: All this is quick to see. You don't need to stop at every waterfall; the priority today is arriving at the National Park with enough time.

🥾 Skaftafell National Park

We arrived at the highlight of the day. We chose the S6 Route (Red), a 7.4 km loop (approx 2-3h). It's the best option to see the essentials without rushing:

• Hundafoss & Magnúsarfoss: The first ones you encounter on the way up.
• Svartifoss (The Black Fall): Famous for being surrounded by geometrically perfect black basalt columns (which inspired the church in Reykjavík).
• Sjónarnípa: A viewpoint that leaves you breathless. From here you see the vastness of the Skaftafellsjökull glacier tongue from above.

Upon finishing the hike, we took advantage of the picnic tables in the park's camping area to eat and rest our legs.

💎 Diamond Beach (Getting a Head Start)

On the way back, we stopped at the Fjallsárlón glacier lagoon. It has less fame than its big neighbor (Jökulsárlón) and is smaller, but precisely for that reason, it's quieter and you can get very close to the glacier front. Highly recommended!

Day 5: Walking on Ice & Sailing Among Icebergs ❄️

We woke up very early with fully charged batteries: today was the day to step on Europe's largest glacier, the Vatnajökull. We had booked a tour with Tröll Expeditions on the Falljökull glacier tongue.

🧗 Glacier Trekking Options

We chose the 5-hour one and it was mind-blowing. They equip you with crampons, a harness, and an ice axe. The guide teaches you how to walk like a pro, digging your gear into the ice.

The best part isn't just the views of Skaftafell from above, but the interaction with the glacier: we saw deep blue crevasses, moulins (holes where water drains), and sculpted ice formations. We even learned how to climb an ice wall and rappel down. Plus, it's very educational: they explain how the ice moves, cracks, and changes with the climate.

After 5 hours of exercise in the cold, we recommend something hot. We ate a hearty sandwich on the way to recover calories and make it in time for the next stop.

🚤 Zodiac at Jökulsárlón

At 4:00 PM we had an appointment at the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. We chose the Zodiac tour (speed boat, about €110) instead of the classic amphibian boat. You can book it here.

It is totally worth paying the difference: we got almost right up to the glacier wall. Although we didn't see any blocks falling live (sadly common due to melting), navigating among giant icebergs is overwhelming. We saw seals swimming freely and learned that icebergs sometimes flip over, revealing their intense blue color.

⚠️ We missed out on: Nearby is the Múlagljúfur canyon. They say the views are spectacular, but we didn't have time. Note it down if you can!

Day 6: The Magic of the East Fjords 🏔️

📸 Vestrahorn: The Batman Mountain

We started the day on the Stokksnes peninsula. Here lies Mount Vestrahorn, probably the most photogenic mountain in the country (it looks like the Batman logo). The ground is black sand and usually has a thin layer of water creating perfect reflections. It's a wild and brutal spot. Note: To enter, you must pay a small fee at the Viking Café, which grants access to the beach and a Viking village movie set.

🚗 Fjords Road Trip

Today the road is the destination. Driving through the East Fjords is hypnotic: weaving in and out of each fjord, hugging the coast. Key stops on the route:

• Höfn: The lobster (langoustine) capital. If you're hungry, this is the place.
• Hvalnes Lighthouse: A beautiful orange lighthouse next to Mount Eystrahorn.
• Djúpivogur: A fishing village famous for being 'Cittaslow' (slow living). Don't miss the sculpture Eggin í Gleðivík (34 giant granite eggs representing local birds).
• Berufjörður: A long and narrow fjord. Whales? Yes, sometimes backs or blows are seen from the shore, as well as seals, so keep an eye on the window!
• Stöðvarfjörður & Fáskrúðsfjörður: The latter has a curious history: it was a base for French fishermen in the 19th century, which is why streets have names in French and Icelandic.

🌈 The Rainbow Village: Seyðisfjörður

Before finishing, we detoured from Egilsstaðir (about 25 min down an impressive mountain pass) to see Seyðisfjörður. You've surely seen it on Instagram: it's the town with the rainbow-painted street leading to a blue church. Also, the famous Walter Mitty skateboard scene was filmed here. On the way, you'll see Gufufoss waterfall (looks like a mini Skógafoss). Essential!

Day 7: The Diamond Circle & Mývatn 💎

🪄 Stuðlagil: The Jewel Revealed

💧 The Beast of Europe: Dettifoss

The next stop makes you feel small. Dettifoss is the most powerful waterfall in Europe. The roar and force of the greyish water crashing down is brutal. Just a short walk away (1km) is Selfoss (more elegant and wide) and nearby Hafragilsfoss. A winning trio.

🌋 Krafla & The Martian Landscape

We entered the Mývatn lake area, one of the most volcanically active zones:

• Viti Crater (Krafla): An explosion crater with a turquoise blue lake inside. You can walk around the rim.
• Hverir: It literally looks like Mars. It's a geothermal area full of steaming fumaroles, boiling mud pots, and ochre and orange earth. (Warning: The sulfur smell here is intense, but the place is photogenic as can be!).

⚫ Black Craters & Blue Caves

We continued the route with two contrasts:
Hverfjall: An immense tephra (black ash) explosion crater. Is it climbable? Yes! There is a steep path that takes you to the rim in about 15-20 minutes. The views from the top are lunar.
Grjótagjá: A 'hidden' lava cave (you have to look closely for the entrance crack). Inside there is a stunning blue thermal spring. ⚔️ Geek fact: The love scene between Jon Snow and Ygritte in Game of Thrones was filmed here. (Note: Bathing is prohibited because the temperature varies and can burn, but looking is free).

💥 Skútustaðagígar Pseudocraters

To end the day relaxed, we did the circular route (20-30 min) through the pseudocraters. They are called so because they didn't erupt magma; they formed when lava flowed over a wetland and the steam exploded, forming these curious green hills.

Day 8: Whales, Eternal Christmas & Akureyri 🐋

💧 Goðafoss: The Waterfall of the Gods

First stop: Goðafoss. Its horseshoe shape is spectacular.
📜 The Legend: In the year 1000, when Iceland decided to convert to Christianity, the lawspeaker threw the statues of the old Norse gods (Odin, Thor...) in here to symbolize the change. Hence its name.

🏙️ Akureyri: The Capital of the North

We arrived at the second largest urban area in Iceland (approx. 19,000 inhabitants). It is a vibrant city located at the end of a very long fjord.

• 🎶 Aitana's Song: Ring a bell? The Spanish singer Aitana has a song called «Akureyri» (with Sebastián Yatra) inspired by a trip they took here. Put on your headphones and listen to it while walking through its streets!
• ❤️ Heart Traffic Lights: Look closely when driving. The red lights aren't round, they are shaped like hearts! They did it to lift people's spirits after the 2008 financial crisis and they stuck.
• 🎅 Christmas House (Jólagarðurinn): On the outskirts is the Christmas House. It's open all year round, smells like cinnamon, and sells beautiful ornaments.

🛁 Relax in Hauganes

On the way west, we stopped at Hauganes. Here there are some very authentic 'Hot Tubs' on the black sand beach, less crowded than the big lagoons. Ideal for resting a while.

We ended the day driving towards the Blönduós area. Check out its modern church; it has brutalist architecture that mimics a volcanic crater.

Day 9: Heading West & The Magic of Snæfellsnes 🧙

👹 The Ogress Canyon: Kolugljúfur

We started heading down to the west stopping at this canyon. According to legend, the ogress Kola lived here and, thanks to her (and her digging habits), we have this spectacular landscape with waterfalls. It's a quick but beautiful stop.

🧚 Waterfalls & Vikings

Following Route 1, we stopped at the Glanni waterfall (they say elves and trolls live here). Very close by is Guðrúnarlaug, a small thermal pool reconstructed in Viking style. It has a lot of history linked to the Icelandic Sagas. A bath with history!

🥈 The Silver Circle (Inland)

Before entering the Snæfellsnes peninsula, if you like geological curiosities, you can detour inland (Reykholt) to see:

• Hraunfossar & Barnafoss: The water flows directly from under a lava field.
• Deildartunguhver: The highest flow hot spring in Europe (they get hot water for cities from here).

⚓ Stykkishólmsbær & Wishes

We entered the Snæfellsnes peninsula from the north. Mandatory stop in Stykkishólmsbær, the main town (part of The Secret Life of Walter Mitty was filmed here).

🏔️ Entering Snæfellsnes

This peninsula is magical; they say it's an 'Iceland in miniature' because it has everything: volcano, glacier, fjords, and beaches. It welcomed us with typical Icelandic weather: rain, cold, wind, and gray skies. 🌧️ But the landscape is so brutal that, even with bad weather, it impresses.

⛰️ The Icon: Kirkjufell

Coming from Stykkishólmsbær, we came face to face with the most photographed mountain in the country (and famous for Game of Thrones): Mount Kirkjufell and its waterfall at the base, Kirkjufellsfoss. It's the first big stop on the circular route. Get your camera out!

🌊 The Wild West Coast

We continued skirting the tip of the peninsula. We passed by Djúpalónssandur beach and the lighthouses of Svörtuloft and Öndverðarnes. The magic of this road is that you see waterfalls every 100 meters and, if the clouds allow, the imposing Snæfellsjökull volcano (yes, the entry point to the center of the Earth in Jules Verne's book).

🪨 Arnarstapi & The Secret Crack

Now on the south side, we stopped at Arnarstapi to walk along its cliffs and see the Gatklettur stone arch and the Stone Bridge. The sea hits with hypnotic force here.

👟 Adventure: Very close by is the Rauðfeldsgjá canyon. It's a very narrow crack in the mountain. To enter the deep part, you have to walk stepping in the stream. Tip: If it's raining or you don't have waterproof shoes, better not risk getting your feet wet.

⛪ The Black Church & Seals

Heading east (towards Borgarnes), we made the final stops:

• Bjarnarfoss: An imposing waterfall that drops directly from the mountain.
• Búðakirkja: The famous black wooden church. The contrast of the black against the gray and mossy surroundings makes for a postcard photo.
• Ytri Tunga: Mandatory stop! It's a beach where seal colonies usually rest. 🦭 They are very curious and playful.
• Gerðuberg Cliffs: An impressive wall of geometric basalt columns perfect for bidding farewell to the peninsula.

Day 10: Optional Trekking, Reykjavík & Final Relax 🏙️

After the morning adventure (or directly from Borgarnes if you preferred to rest), we arrived at the world's northernmost capital. Reykjavík is small but vibrant, with about 130,000 inhabitants (over 230,000 if you count the metropolitan area, almost two-thirds of the country's population!).

🚶 Walking Essentials

• Laugavegur & Skólavörðustígur Streets: The main shopping arteries (the famous rainbow street).
• Hallgrímskirkja: The iconic church. Its facade mimics basalt columns (like those at Svartifoss). In front stands the statue of Leif Erikson, the Viking who reached America 500 years before Columbus (a gift from the US).
• Tjörnin Lake: A beautiful pond in the center filled with birds.
• Sun Voyager (Sólfar): A beautiful steel sculpture facing the sea. Note: it's not a Viking ship, it's an ode to the sun!
• Perlan: A building with a glass dome and panoramic views.

For lunch, we went to Íslenski Barinn. It's a very authentic spot where you can try whale or puffin (if you dare). We went for the safe and delicious option: a classic vegetable soup and roasted lamb. 🍲

🧖 The 7-Step Ritual: Sky Lagoon

There is no better way to end the trip. At 4:00 PM we had a reservation at the Sky Lagoon. Unlike the Blue Lagoon, this one features an infinity pool with ocean views that leaves you speechless. Book your ticket here.

We did the famous 7-Step Ritual: warm lagoon, cold plunge (only for the brave!), sauna with a view, cold mist, salt scrub, steam room, and shower. You come out floating.