Discover the Unspoiled Beauty of Iceland’s Westfjords and Highlands: Available only between June and September, this exclusive adventure takes you off the beaten path into the heart of Iceland’s untamed wilderness. The Westfjords and Highlands remain pristine and less traveled, offering a unique escape from the tourist crowds. Delve into a world of natural wonders as you journey from glacier to glacier along the famed Kjolur trail, and then explore the tranquil Westfjords, a haven for hiking, birdwatching, and relaxing in natural hot baths. Choose this extraordinary trip for an authentic Icelandic experience, where unspoiled landscapes and solitude set the stage for a truly exceptional unique adventure.
Your Icelandic adventure begins with your arrival at the airport, where you’ll collect your rental vehicle. Depending on your flight schedule, you can either make your way to your accommodation in the Golden Circle region or opt to spend the night near the airport in the event of a late arrival. Your journey starts with the flexibility to accommodate your travel needs.
Journey: approximately 120 km
Stages: Reykjanes
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Iceland’s Golden Circle. Begin your day with a visit to Thingvellir National Park, where you’ll witness the remarkable separation of the North American and European tectonic plates. Next, head to the geothermal wonderland of the Geyser region, home to the famous Geysir and Strokkur geysers, which shoot powerful jets of water vapor into the sky. Conclude your day with the awe-inspiring Gullfoss waterfall. Tonight, you’ll rest in the Gullfoss region, with the option of enjoying a soothing bath at the Secret Lagoon to make your Icelandic experience even more unforgettable.
Journey: approximately 200 km
Stops: Gullfoss, Geysir, Thingvellir National Park
Today, you’ll venture deep into the heart of Iceland on the Kjölur trail. Embark on a beautiful hike in the midst of a volcanic mountain landscape, where sulfur and fumaroles emerge from the earth, creating a surreal atmosphere at Kerlingarfjöll, also known as the Witch’s Mountains. Your journey continues northward, with a captivating stop at Hveravellir. Here, you can witness volcanic manifestations and even take a rejuvenating dip in a natural hot water spring, making for an unforgettable day of exploration. Spend the night in the North region, ready for more Icelandic adventures.
Journey: approximately 250 km
Stages: Hveravellir, Kerlingarfjöll
Today, embark on a journey of discovery as you explore the discreet Vatnsnes Peninsula. Get up close and personal with the resident seals while enjoying breathtaking views of the sea. Make sure to stop and marvel at the famous Hvítserkur rock, a geological formation that some say resembles a petrified troll.
Your adventure continues as you head towards another unique facet of Iceland—the Westfjords, often described as an ‘island within an island’ and the oldest part of the country. Tonight, you’ll stay in the Hólmavík region, where you can immerse yourself in ancestral Icelandic customs and traditions, adding a touch of cultural richness to your journey.
Journey: approximately 300 km
Stages: Hólmavík, Vatnsnes
On this day, you’ll explore the Drangsnes region, a coastal haven dotted with small fishing ports that harken back to the golden age of herring fishing. Take the opportunity to indulge in a unique experience by swimming in natural hot water springs, with numerous options to choose from. The region is renowned for its picturesque beaches adorned with driftwood, providing a serene backdrop for your exploration. After a day of discovery, you’ll spend another night in the same place as the day before, allowing you to soak in the tranquility of this coastal gem.
Travel: approximately 150 km
Stops: Holmavik, Drangsnes, Drangsnes hot tubs, Djúpavík
Your morning can be dedicated to further exploration of this remarkable region, with the option to embark on an exciting whale-watching excursion. Following your wildlife encounter, your journey proceeds to the Heydalur valley, where you’ll have the opportunity to embark on beautiful hikes through the scenic landscape. For those seeking more adventure, consider a kayaking expedition, a horseback ride, or a fishing session in the nearby lake.
Wrap up the day with a soothing soak in a pleasant hot spring, a perfect way to unwind and rejuvenate. You’ll spend the night on-site, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the Heydalur valley.
Journey: approximately 150 km
Stages: Heydalur
Spend the night in the heart of the city center, surrounded by the charm and culture of Isafjördur.
Journey: approximately 150 km
Stages: Ísafjörður, Hornstrandir, Bolungarvík
Immerse yourself in the majesty of the West Fjords, a true masterpiece of nature. As you journey through these dramatic fjords, Route 60, leading south, unveils some of the most scenic vistas in the entire country. Along the way, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to make stops, each one more captivating than the last. Marvel at the awe-inspiring Dynjandi waterfall, take in the diverse flora, and witness the rich tapestry of bird species that call this region home.
You’ll spend the night in the enchanting Látrabjarg cliffs region, a place of sheer natural wonder that promises to leave a lasting impression.
Journey: approximately 200 km
Stages: Dynjandi, Patreksfjörður
Begin your day with a remarkable walk along the towering cliffs of Látrabjarg, situated in the far west of Iceland. Home to millions of seabirds, these cliffs provide an unforgettable spectacle, as puffins, gulls, guillemots, and other seabirds continuously traverse between land and sea. It’s a unique opportunity for observing and photographing puffins in their natural habitat.
In the afternoon, journey to Brjánslækur, where you’ll board a ferry to make your way to Stykkishólmur on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. As you arrive on the north coast of Snæfellsnes, you’ll find yourself surrounded by even more natural beauty and wonders.
Journey: approximately 150 km
Stages: Stykkisholmur, Látrabjarg
Today, your adventure unfolds on the enchanting Snaefellsnes Peninsula, offering a rich tapestry of natural wonders. In a single day, you’ll have the opportunity to spot seals, wander along picturesque pebble beaches, approach imposing cliffs to meet seabirds, take in the iconic ‘church mountain’ Kirkjufell, and admire the glacier-volcano Snæfellsjökull—an entry point to the center of the Earth, according to Jules Verne’s novel.
And why not savor a taste of Icelandic culture by trying a typical dish of fried shark? This delightful day concludes with a night in the Snaefellsnes region, surrounded by the enduring beauty of Iceland.
Journey: approximately 200 km
Stages: Snæfellsnes, Hellnar, Kirkjufell
Your Icelandic journey comes full circle as you arrive in Reykjavik in the morning for a day of exploring the capital. Don’t miss the chance to visit the striking Harpa cultural center and the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church, which offer unique architectural and cultural experiences.
If you prefer to extend your immersion in Iceland’s natural beauty, you can choose to spend the day in the Borgarfjörður region or on the Reykjanes Peninsula, where more wonders await. The day concludes with an overnight stay either in Reykjavík city center or near the airport, depending on your flight schedule for the following day.
Travel: approximately 100 km
Stages: Reykjavik
Journey to the airport for your international flight.
Stages: Reykjanes