Iceland : Southern Highlights

1390 km (approx)

Day 1 Keflavik-Hveragerdi/Selfoss fly from the UK to Keflavik, collect your rental vehicle and head off to your accommodation, approximately 1½ to 2 hours from the airport (Hveragerdi or Selfoss area, in the south west of Iceland).

Day 2 Hveragerdi/Selfoss leisurely day exploring the Reykjanes Peninsula with its rocky coastline, myriad of lighthouses, geothermal and volcanic features and of course, the famous Blue Lagoon. Be sure to have a dip in the therapeutic waters or perhaps indulge in a spa treatment (additional cost for entrance and treatments – prebookable and prepayable). 

Day 3 Hveragerdi/Selfoss drive to Thingvellir National Park to see the site of the ancient parliament or visit the capital, Reykjavik, with its landmark church Hallgrimskirkja and the hilltop Perlan revolving restaurant, to name but two popular places of interest.

Day 4 Hveragerdi/Selfoss perhaps enjoy an excursion to the offshore volcanic Westman Islands. Drive to the harbour at Landeyjahofn, past Hvolsvollur village and take the ferry service across to Heimaey, the main Island – approx. 30 mins each way (payable locally; several departures each day – weather and conditions permitting). Discover the volcanoes and recent lava fields, bird cliffs and the busy harbour. It is also possible to take boat trips around the islands, and to the volcanic island of Surtsey (subject to a minimum number of participants, seasonal operation). Alternatively, drive along the south coast or take another optional excursion (horseriding, river rafting, ice climbing, glacier walks, snowmobiling and other adventures - all prebookable!). 

Day 5 Hveragerdi/Selfoss explore the enchanting Thjorsa Valley with its views of Hekla, stunning waterfalls and historic sites.

Day 6 Hveragerdi/Selfoss visit the natural wonders of Gullfoss, the hot springs and geysers at Geysir and historic Skalholt church.

Day 7 Hveragerdi/Selfoss take the coast road east to the glaciers, past more breathtaking waterfalls including Seljalandsfoss – the sight and sound from behind its cascading water is a detour that shouldn’t be missed! Further along the coast road is mighty Skogafoss and for a different view of the falls, climb the steps to the summit. Nearby is the Skogar folk museum with good examples of traditional turf houses as well as plenty of fascinating artefacts in the main building. At Dyrholaey, atop the rugged cliffs and natural rock arch, look out along the black sand beaches, the uninterrupted views, weather permitting, providing great photo opportunities. Consider taking an optional snowmobile trip on Myrdalsjokull glacier.

Day 8 Hveragerdi/Selfoss-Keflavik return to Keflavik, drop off your rental vehicle and fly back to the UK.

Please note should you wish to ease into your holiday, opt for an additional night just a 20 minute drive from Keflavik International Airport. A night at the Northern Light Inn means you can have a relaxing dip in the warm waters of the nearby Blue Lagoon (payable locally) before commencing your itinerary. Alternatively, those with early morning flights back to the UK may wish to extend their holiday by staying overnight at the Northern Light Inn at the end of their trip. As with all of our self-drive holidays, we can tailor-make your itinerary to suit your requirements. Please call our office team for details.