Iceland

Where every journey becomes a story

Discover Iceland

I explored Iceland on a self-drive adventure around the Ring Road, with waterfalls, hot springs, glaciers, lava fields, and the chance to chase the Northern Lights. From Reykjavik’s colourful streets to the dramatic south coast, quiet Eastfjords, wild north, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, every day felt like stepping into another world carved by ice, fire, and ocean.

Stories From Iceland

Reykjavik Beginnings — Colourful Streets & Ocean Air

My journey began in Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital. I wandered between colourful houses, street art, cosy cafés, and views of the harbour. Hallgrímskirkja church watched over the city, while Harpa Concert Hall shimmered by the water. It felt compact, creative, and full of quiet energy — the perfect base before hitting the open road.

Waterfalls & Open Roads — The South Coast

Driving the south coast was like moving through a living postcard. I visited iconic waterfalls such as Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the curtain of water, and Gljúfrabúi, hidden in a small gorge nearby. The sound of rushing water, moss-covered cliffs, and constantly changing skies made the day feel wild and alive.

Vík, Black Sands & an Ice Cave Adventure

In Vík, I stayed near black-sand beaches framed by sea stacks and dramatic cliffs. One of the highlights was joining a super jeep tour to explore a glacier ice cave. After gearing up with a helmet, headlamp, and crampons, we walked out onto the ice and stepped inside shimmering blue walls formed by centuries of compressed snow and meltwater. It felt otherworldly — quiet, powerful, and humbling.

Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach

Continuing along the south coast, I reached a glacier lagoon where icebergs drifted slowly across milky-blue water. Nearby, at Diamond Beach, pieces of ice washed up on the black sand, glittering like crystals. Standing there with the wind on my face, watching ice move from glacier to ocean, was one of the most memorable scenes of the trip.

Quiet Eastfjords & Coastal Villages

The Eastfjords brought winding coastal roads, steep mountains, and tiny fishing villages. I stopped in small towns where colourful houses hugged the shoreline, explored viewpoints with crashing waves below, and felt the pace of life slow down. It was peaceful, remote, and incredibly beautiful.

North Iceland — Lava Fields, Hot Springs & Waterfalls

In the north, I explored areas around Lake Mývatn, with steaming geothermal fields, craters, and lava formations. I visited waterfalls like Goðafoss, where water spills over a horseshoe-shaped cliff, and Dettifoss, one of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls. Steam, snow, and rock filled the landscape, creating a dramatic contrast of elements.

Akureyri — The Capital of the North

I spent time in Akureyri, often called the “Capital of the North”. The town sits by a fjord, with mountain views, pretty streets, a charming church on the hill, and a beautiful botanical garden. It felt welcoming and relaxed — a cosy stop between long stretches of road and countryside.

Snæfellsnes Peninsula — Iceland in Miniature

On the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, I drove past golden beaches, rugged lava fields, coastal cliffs, and fishing villages like Arnarstapi and Hellnar. Waterfalls such as Bjarnarfoss, a tiny black church at Búðir, and views of the Snæfellsjökull glacier made the peninsula feel like a condensed version of all of Iceland’s landscapes in one place.

Hot Springs & Northern Lights Dreams

Throughout the trip, I soaked in geothermal pools and hot springs, letting the warm water and cold air wrap around me. On dark nights, I watched the sky for the Northern Lights — sometimes just a glow on the horizon, sometimes dancing streaks overhead. Iceland felt like a place where the elements were always moving, shifting, and inviting you to be fully present.

Overview

Iceland is a land of glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls, geysers, and black-sand beaches. Driving the Ring Road lets you see remote fjords, quiet villages, dramatic coastlines, and endless sky. It is ideal for travellers who love nature, road trips, and dramatic, ever-changing weather.

Top Highlights

• Exploring Reykjavik’s colourful streets and harbour.
• Walking behind Seljalandsfoss and discovering hidden Gljúfrabúi.
• Black-sand beaches and ice cave adventures near Vík.
• Glacier lagoon and Diamond Beach with sparkling ice on black sand.
• Quiet Eastfjords and photogenic coastal villages.
• North Iceland’s waterfalls, lava fields, and geothermal areas.
• Snæfellsnes Peninsula with cliffs, beaches, and glacier views.
• Soaking in hot springs and chasing the Northern Lights.

Best Time to Visit

Summer (June to August) offers longer days, milder temperatures, and easier driving conditions, making it ideal for road trips and outdoor exploration. Late autumn to early spring (roughly September to April) is best for seeing the Northern Lights, though days are shorter and weather can be more unpredictable. Each season brings its own magic — from midnight sun to snow-covered landscapes.

Travel Requirements

• Visa: Many nationalities can enter Iceland visa-free for short stays within the Schengen area.
• Passport: At least 6 months validity is recommended.
• Vaccinations: None required for most travellers (check latest guidance).
• Driving: Roads can be challenging in winter; always check conditions and drive carefully.
• Travel Insurance: Strongly recommended for health, cancellations, and rental car coverage.

Things to Do in Iceland

Drive the Ring Road

Circle the island to experience glaciers, fjords, waterfalls, and remote villages.

Chase Waterfalls & Black-Sand Beaches

Visit iconic falls and dramatic coastlines, especially along the south coast.

Explore Glaciers & Ice Caves

Join guided tours to safely walk on glaciers and discover shimmering blue ice caves.

Soak in Hot Springs

Relax in geothermal pools and lagoons, surrounded by steam and stunning scenery.

Look for the Northern Lights

On dark, clear nights outside the city, watch the sky for dancing auroras.

Good to Know

• Currency: Icelandic Króna (ISK)
• Language: Icelandic (English widely spoken)
• Emergency Number: 112
• Transport: Rental cars, domestic flights, buses, and guided tours