Self-Drive Along the Arctic Coast Way

Start the journey by exploring the Golden Circle and experience the geysers area, the roaring Gullfoss Waterfall and Thingvellir National Park. Overnight in the west in the Borgarfjord area. 

Discover the small fishing villages and bays, the white beaches and lava formations, as well as the powerful Snæfellsjökull glacier volcano on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. There's a reason that the peninsula is often called "Iceland in miniature."

From Snæfellsnes the journey continues north to the first section of the Arctic Coast Way, where myths and legends, the centre of Icelandic horse breeding, seal colonies at Hvammstangi and bizarre rock formation like Hvitserkur meet. 

Explore Skagafjord at the Glaumbær open-air museum, the emigrant centre at Hofsos and the beautiful fishing village Siglufjordur where the herring once made history. Take a warm bath at Hofsos pool with a view of the Skagafjord on the way!

Today you have the opportunity to travel the Arctic Circle at Dalvik. Grimsey is right on the parallel at 66° 33' 55", which runs through the island. This makes the island the only inhabited place in Iceland where the midnight sun can be seen.  You can take the ferry to the approximately 5km2 large island, on which around 100 people live all year round. Alternatively, the island of Hrisey is worth a visit. It is on the same level as Dalvik in the Eyjafjord (ferry daily every 2 hours/duration 15 minutes approx. 12 km south of Dalvik). It is recommended to book the ferry in advance. A nice way to end the day is at the "Beer Spa" where you can enjoy soaking in the beer-infused bathtubs. 

Akureyri is the largest city in the north and lies at the end of the Eyjafjord. Take your time to stroll through the charming town. On the way to Lake Myvatn, a visit to Godafoss, the waterfall of the gods, is a must. Overnight for two nights in the Myvatn area. 

Highlights of the day include the popular fishing village of Husavik (where you can also book a whale watching tour), the lava formations near Dimmuborgir, and the pseudo-craters of Skútustaðir. End the day with a warm geothermal bath in the nature bath Mývatn with a view of Lake Mývatn.

Visit the most impressive waterfall on the island: Dettifoss. From there you embark on the last and probably the most barren and isolated part of the Arctic Coast Way along the Melrakkasletta Peninsula. On route no. 870 is the northernmost point of the mainland with its white lighthouse. From here the Arctic Circle is only 3 km away. You will spend the night in the small village of Raufarhöfn which inhabits only 170 people. There you will find the largest work of art in Iceland: "the Arctic Henge."

Today you will explore the peaceful Rauðanes Peninsula with rich birdlife and beautiful hiking trails. Overnight at an Icelandic farmhouse accommodation enjoying a nice family atmosphere.

Drive through the north-east towards Egilstaðir,  the main service centre of the East Fjords. We recommend a visit to the old Burstarfell turf farm before dipping into the Selárdalur thermal pool located north of the small town Vopnafjördur. 

Depending on your flight schedule, you could visit Lake Lagarfljót and the colourful Hengifoss waterfall or enjoy the wonderful Vök nature baths. Drop off your rental car and fly to Reykjavík. 

Coach transfer to Keflavik International Airport for your departure flight.

We can help you plan flights, additional excursions, or extend your stay. Send us an inquiry, please make sure to include your requirements in the message box, and we will find the best solution for you.