Search and Rescue Monitoring
http://safetravel.is/
Use the 112 Iceland App
The app sends an SMS to the Icelandic emergency service 112, with the phones GPS location, before calling 112.
https://itunes.apple.com/is/app/112-iceland/id530144261?mt=8
Driving
Webcams and road conditions: http://vegasja.vegagerdin.is/eng/
Lights shall be turned at all times
You must use of hands-free kits for mobile phone while driving
Speed limits is 50 km/h in urban areas. Outside towns, it is 90km on paved roads and 80km on gravel roads. If you see a car stopped near the road and are wondering if those are tourists admiring the view or a cop waiting to catch you, check the direction of the car. If it is heading towards to road then it is a cop.
Ring Road distances, no stops
Keflavik - Vik: 226km / 141mi (4hr)
Vik - Jokulsarlon: 192km / 120mi (3hr)
Jokulsarlon - Egilsstadir: 257km / 159mi (4.5hr)
Egilsstadir - Reykjahlid: 166km / 103mi (2.5hr)
Reykjahlid - Varmahlid: 193km / 120mi (3hr)
Varmahlid - Fossatun: 211km / 131mi (3.5hr)
Fossatun - Snaefellsnes 274km / 170mi (4.5hr)
Fossatun - ring road: 272km / 169mi (5hr)
Fossatun - Keflavik : 135km / 83mi (2.5hr)
Petrol rates April 2016
200 ISK/ Liter ($1.60/liter or $6.05/gallon)
Language
Jökull – Glacier
Kirkja – Church
Sarlon – Lagoon
Fell – Mountain
Foss/Fossar – Waterfall
Hraun – Lava
Hello – Halló
Thanks – Takk or Takk fyrir
Cheers! – Skál!
Yes – Já.
No – Nei
Money
Sometimes gas stations will be closed or not monitored in the more remote spots, so before you leave, it’s better to buy gas credits loaded up with credit so you can just swipe and fill direct from the machines instead of having to pay at the counter.You can get away with paying for everything with a credit or debit card.
Toilets (200kr)
Tipping: It’s not customary to tip in Iceland
Paying: You can pay even very small amount by credit card. but to minimize the fees you might want to take out cash then plan in advance because there are not that many towns
Managing cash: Exchange your leftover cash at the airport before leaving. You won’t be able to change it back once outside of Iceland.
Exchange
125 ISK = $1
500 ISK = $4
1,000 ISK = $8
2,500 ISK = $20
5,000 ISK = $40
7,500 ISK = $60
10,000 ISK = $80
15,000 ISK = $120
125 ISK = $1
500 ISK = $4
1,000 ISK = $8
2,500 ISK = $20
5,000 ISK = $40
7,500 ISK = $60
10,000 ISK = $80
15,000 ISK = $120
VAT on Goods leaving the country
Passengers will have to finish the tax refund procedure before going through security check. The new location for tax refund is located in the arrival hall across from the rental car booths.
The purchase price of the goods with VAT is a minimum of ISK 6,000 (~ $50)
The buyer needs to be able to produce the articles at departure
Passengers will have to finish the tax refund procedure before going through security check. The new location for tax refund is located in the arrival hall across from the rental car booths.
The purchase price of the goods with VAT is a minimum of ISK 6,000 (~ $50)
The buyer needs to be able to produce the articles at departure
Amex Foreign Transaction Fees: 2.7%
Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance is underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. This product provides secondary coverage. This means it pays eligible benefits not paid by any primary insurance that you have. This product provides collision damage to the rented vehicle but does not cover such things as injuries to you, any passenger in your insured vehicle, injury to other persons, or damages to other vehicles or property. Global Assist® Hotline coordination and assistance services are offered at no additional charge: americanexpress.com/GAterms.
Citi PreferredYou may be covered against theft or damage up to $50,000 for any rental car in any country when you pay with your Citi card and decline the rental company's collision loss/damage insurance.
Verizon Travel Pass
$10 per 24 hours of use of your existing plan abroad
TravelPass activates when you make or receive a call, connect to a data service or send a text while within one of the 65+ countries where TravelPass is available. Another daily session will begin once you make or receive a call, send a text or use data after the 24-hour period expires. You can keep TravelPass on your account at no charge so it will be ready the next time your travels take you abroad.
European standard electrical socket types: The "Type C" Europlug and the "Type E" and "Type F"
Daylight (Mid-May)
Sunrise: ~4:30- earlier each day
Sunset: ~10pm - later each day
Traveling with kids
http://walkingontravels.com/reykjavik-iceland/
http://walkingontravels.com/iceland-with-babies-toddlers-winter/
Spa with daycare http://www.laugarspa.com/
General Blogs
http://www.darnoldhiking.com/iceland.html
https://www.tentree.com/blog/self-guided-tour-around-iceland-part-1/
http://www.zigzagonearth.com/travel-destinations/destination-guide-iceland/
Other
Open Air Museum in Árbæjarsafni, Reykjavík
Icelanders consume more Coca-Cola per Capita than any other nation.
DAY 1: SOUTHWEST
Selfoss
Bonus 10am-6pm
Kronan 10am-7pm
Kaffi Krus "coffee mug"
Hveragerdi
Right inside the town of Hveragerði is an area of hot springs from which the community derives its name (hver = hot spring). The hot springs of Hveragerði are among the most remarkable natural attractions og south Iceland. Visitor to the hot spring can learn about geothermal energy and the springs, which include Dynkur, which spouts regulary, Ruslahver which has an interesting history, and many more. Beautiful hiking path from Hveragerði through geothermal areas leads to Reykjadalur (Smokey Valley) where you can take geothermal bath in natural hot springs. When you reach Hveragerði turn on the circle to north on Breiðamörk road and drive to end of the road. Starting point situated on the parking lot. Distance from parking lot to the hot springs is 3.5 km, apprx. 45 minutes of easy hiking.
Seljalandsfoss
A unique waterfall in the river Seljalandsá, about 30 km west from Skógar. It is 60 meters high with a foot path behind it at the bottom of the cliff, but with a thin cascade. It is the only known waterfall of its kind, where it is possible to walk behind it. The waterfall is very picturesque and therefore its photo can be found in many books and calendars.
Access to the waterfall is from the farm of Seljaland along the Ring Road, Iceland's main highway. A little further to the west there are several other falls, among them the interesting Gljúfrabúi which is partially masked by its own canyon. Access to it is from Hamragarðar farm along the road, east of Markarfljót.
Gljufurarfoss
Right next to Seljalandsfoss, hidden behind a cave
Kerið crater
Skogafoss Waterfall
Skogafoss ("SKOH-ga-foss") is 60m with a width of 25m. The official path climbed alongside the cliffs surrounding the recess containing the falls to yield precarious top down views of not only the waterfall but also the view towards the Atlantic Ocean as well. This trail also continued further up the Skoga River where there were many more waterfalls.
DC-3
On Saturday Nov 24, 1973 a United States Navy Douglas Super DC-3 airplane was forced to land on Sólheimasandur’s black sand beach in the south of Iceland after experiencing some severe icing. Luckily all crew members survived the crash, but the airplane’s fuselage was abandoned. After driving past Skógafoss going East on Route 1, you’ll cross a bridge with blinking yellow lights and a dirt access road to Sólheimajökull Glacier on the left. There’s one fork on the dirt road, and you’ll want to stay left here. After that the road heads straight onto the barren black sand beach towards the ocean. There's banned access to vehicles driving on the beach. You have to walk 4km to the plane from the road.
Turnoff GPS Coordinates 63.4912391,-19.3632810
Airplane GPS Coordinates 63.459523,-19.364618
http://expertvagabond.com/airplane-crash-wreckage-iceland/
Halsanefshellir Cave at Reynisfjara Beach (top) and Myrdalssandur (bottom)
Reynisfjara, a black sand beach, surrounded by roaring surf, and the hexagonal basalt columns of Reynisfjall mountain; oft befriended by North-Atlantic storms, three titanic rocks, said to be the petrified carnal remains of careless trolls hit by sunlight, stand strong in the constant spray of sea, facing only the strange dark caves, gaping in the cliff-face. In walking distance is Dyrhólaey, a gigantic pillar of dark lava arching 120 meters into the sea, forming a peninsula from which travellers can enjoy a brilliant view of the Mýrdalsjökull glacier, and the South Icelandic coastline.
Dyrhólaey
Mýrdalsjökull
View tongue from RT 221
DAY 2: SOUTHEAST
Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon
Fjaðrárgljúfur is a magnificent and massive canyon, about 100 meters deep and about two kilometres long. It's 3.5km north of the Ring Road, left on Rt 206. The canyon has sheer walls, and is somewhat serpentine and narrow. The bedrock in Fjaðrárgljúfur is mostly palagonite from cold periods of the Ice Age and is thought to be about two million years old. The river Fjaðrá has its source in the mountain Geirlandshraun and falls off the heath edge in this stunning canyon until it makes it down into Skaftá river. Fjaðrá has changed a lot in the course of time. Today Fjaðrá is often rather low in water and therefore hikers can safely choose to walk inside the canyon. However, wading is necessary fairly often. Deep in the canyon there are waterfalls so one needs to walk the same way back. Most people choose to walk along a walking path up on the canyon’s edge while simultaneously enjoying the view above the canyon.
Near villages: Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Jokulsarlon - webcam
Glacier Lagoon Jokulsarlon, on the borders of Vatnajokull National Park. You'll see icebergs in a variety of styles - from white streaked with charcoal-black soot, to translucent formations resembling glass and gorgeous chunks of powder blue. The beach is located on the west side of the bridge; the east side of the bridge beach is okay, but not as good as the west. These sites are best experienced during low light in the early morning or evening.
Near villages: Hofn, Djupivogur
Höfn FOOD
Hafnarbuðin: fast food, 9am-10pm, 400-1600ISK ($3-14)
Pakkhús Restaurant
DAY 3: EAST
Hofn
Hafnarbudin fast food, 9am-10pm, 400-1600ISK ($3-14)
Netto supermarket, 9am-6pm
Vestrahorn Mountains on Stokksnes peninsula
breiðdalsvík fishing village
Kaupfjelagid cafe, 10:30-6pm summer?
Hengifoss
Iceland's 2nd highest waterfalls, southwest of egilsstadir, RT 931
Egilsstadir
Netto supermarket, 9am-8pm, behind the N1 petrol station
Bonus supermarket, 11am-6:30pm, on N1
Cafe Nielsen in Egilsstadir's oldest house, 11:30-11:30pm, pasta/salad bar 1850ISK ($15)
Salt cafe-bistro, 10am-11pm, 1300-3000ISK ($10-$25)
Seyðisfjörður
Seyðisfjörður, a fjord skillfully carved by the ice age glacier, is distinguished by excellent harbour facilities and Norwegian heritage. Seyðisfjörður has been an important trading center from the nineteenth century up to modern times, due to natural harbor and proximity to the european continent. The colourful, Norwegian-style wooden houses, dating from the early years of the 20th. century render this village unique in Iceland. Walking trails around town, out along the coast, or by the Fjarðará River, allow for many pleasurable and relaxing experiences. During summer, Seyðisfjörður offers a thriving arts scene, with visiting artists and growing community of artists residents. The Skaftfell Cultural Centre contains works by some of these, including the Swiss-German artist and former Seydisfjordur resident, Dieter Roth (1930-1998). Seyðisfjörður is home to approximately 700 residents, who have traditionally lived off fishing. In recent years, however, tourism has grown rapidly.
Puffins
Borgarfjörður Eystri, East Iceland
Large puffin colonies on the island of Hafnarhólmi, and the chance to get up-close-and-personal with the birds. There's a special hideout viewing location near the harbour of the town which allows visitors to view a wide variety of unique bird species native to the area. A popular puffin spot is Borgarhólmi which you can reach by car and on foot.
Skalinn fast food, 8am-10pm
Skaftafell bistro, 11:30-10pm, 1200-3200ISK ($10-$25)
Kaffi Lara cafe-bar, 11:30am-1:30am
Egilsstaðir swimming pool
Mondays - Fridays from 06.30 am - 20:30
It is an outdoor swimming pool, 25 meters long, 2 hot tubs, a childrens pool and a water slide.
Hvitserkur
On Vatnsnes peninsula in North-West Iceland just off shore stands the majestic Hvítserkur, a 15 meters' high monolith. It looks like an animal of some sort, an elephant or a rhino - or even a dinosaurs drinking. It is just awesome! Especially as there is a lot of fulmar nesting on it so it seems to be alive and it is half-white from their excrement, thus the name Hvítserkur - "hvít-" meaning white. I just love monoliths like this one! The legend goes that Hvítserkur is a petrified troll. The troll lived in Strandir and wanted to tear down the bells at Þingeyraklaustur convent. But fortunately it got caught by daylight and as we all know trolls turn into stone by daylight. There is a gravel road leading to Hvítserkur leading down from Ósar and you drive for a couple of minutes down to a parking lot where there are benches and tables. You can either see Hvítserkur from above or walk down to it. There is a trail leading to it from the parking lot and from there you can see it from above. From there is a steep trail leading you to the shore. It is also possible to go straight down to the shore from the parking lot, from there is an easy walk down. But in the summer time the Arctic tern may prevent you from reaching Hvítserkur on that route.
Sidetrip: Snaefellsnese Peninusula
Kirkjufell
Arnarstapi and Hellnar, Gatklettur Arch
BORGARNES
Blomasetrid - Kaffi Kyrrd gift shop and cafeSettlement Center - lunch buffet, 10am-9pm
Pool: 06:00-22:00
In Borgarnes is an old style playground “Bjössaróló” bult by man that lived in Borgarnes.
Glymur is the highest waterfall in Iceland. It takes about 4 hours to get to Glymur and back down.
DAY 7: GOLDEN CIRCLE
Tectonic Rift at Þingvellir National Park
This is also where the North American & Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly splitting apart from each other, creating deep fissures in the ground.
Strokkur Geysir
Strokkur (the churn) is currently the most energetic spouting spring in Iceland. It spouts every few minutes, sometimes to a height of 40 m, yet generally less than 10-20 m. We know little of Strokkur’s age and past history. It was set off during an earthquake in 1789, having then been quiescent for some time. In all probability though, it had been active before. The year after Strokkur started to spout it was extremely powerful and ejected water, gas and steam with tremendous force. Towards the beginning of the following century it spouted with less frequency, yet with such fury that even Geysir paled in comparison. At the time, Geysir’s jets reached a height of 30 m, whereas Strokkur would spout 40 m. https://www.extremeiceland.is/information/about-iceland/geysir-geothermal-field
Gullfoss Waterfall (golden waterfall)
The mighty Hvítá river abruptly disappears into a ravine at a spectacular waterfall called Gullfoss, the next major highlight on Iceland’s Golden Circle. This wide & fast moving river turns a corner and falls 100 feet into a crevice in the earth, producing thick mist & frequent rainbows.
After descending a long staircase from the parking lot, a concrete pathway allows visitors to walk along the edge and look down into the roaring cascade of water. The area around the falls gets pretty windy, so a waterproof jacket (and maybe even pants) is recommended if you plan to get close. The dramatic scenery at Gullfoss makes it one of Iceland’s most popular attractions. Gullfoss waterfall is located off the main road, so you have to backtrack a bit to continue on the Golden Circle route. There is a road that continues past, but it’s one of Icealand’s notorious F-roads that requires four-wheel drive.
ARKANES FOOD
Skokkin Cafe, 2 Kirkjubraut
Ferstikluskali - no frills, Hvalfjordur, Akranes, near Glymur falls
Gamla Kaupfelagid, 11:45 - 3am
DAY 8: REYKJAVIK
The Laundromat Café
Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance is underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. This product provides secondary coverage. This means it pays eligible benefits not paid by any primary insurance that you have. This product provides collision damage to the rented vehicle but does not cover such things as injuries to you, any passenger in your insured vehicle, injury to other persons, or damages to other vehicles or property. Global Assist® Hotline coordination and assistance services are offered at no additional charge: americanexpress.com/GAterms.
Citi PreferredYou may be covered against theft or damage up to $50,000 for any rental car in any country when you pay with your Citi card and decline the rental company's collision loss/damage insurance.
Verizon Travel Pass
$10 per 24 hours of use of your existing plan abroad
TravelPass activates when you make or receive a call, connect to a data service or send a text while within one of the 65+ countries where TravelPass is available. Another daily session will begin once you make or receive a call, send a text or use data after the 24-hour period expires. You can keep TravelPass on your account at no charge so it will be ready the next time your travels take you abroad.
European standard electrical socket types: The "Type C" Europlug and the "Type E" and "Type F"
Daylight (Mid-May)
Sunrise: ~4:30- earlier each day
Sunset: ~10pm - later each day
Traveling with kids
http://walkingontravels.com/reykjavik-iceland/
http://walkingontravels.com/iceland-with-babies-toddlers-winter/
Spa with daycare http://www.laugarspa.com/
General Blogs
http://www.darnoldhiking.com/iceland.html
https://www.tentree.com/blog/self-guided-tour-around-iceland-part-1/
http://www.zigzagonearth.com/travel-destinations/destination-guide-iceland/
Other
Open Air Museum in Árbæjarsafni, Reykjavík
Icelanders consume more Coca-Cola per Capita than any other nation.
Selfoss
Bonus 10am-6pm
Kronan 10am-7pm
Kaffi Krus "coffee mug"
Hveragerdi
Right inside the town of Hveragerði is an area of hot springs from which the community derives its name (hver = hot spring). The hot springs of Hveragerði are among the most remarkable natural attractions og south Iceland. Visitor to the hot spring can learn about geothermal energy and the springs, which include Dynkur, which spouts regulary, Ruslahver which has an interesting history, and many more. Beautiful hiking path from Hveragerði through geothermal areas leads to Reykjadalur (Smokey Valley) where you can take geothermal bath in natural hot springs. When you reach Hveragerði turn on the circle to north on Breiðamörk road and drive to end of the road. Starting point situated on the parking lot. Distance from parking lot to the hot springs is 3.5 km, apprx. 45 minutes of easy hiking.
Seljalandsfoss
A unique waterfall in the river Seljalandsá, about 30 km west from Skógar. It is 60 meters high with a foot path behind it at the bottom of the cliff, but with a thin cascade. It is the only known waterfall of its kind, where it is possible to walk behind it. The waterfall is very picturesque and therefore its photo can be found in many books and calendars.
Access to the waterfall is from the farm of Seljaland along the Ring Road, Iceland's main highway. A little further to the west there are several other falls, among them the interesting Gljúfrabúi which is partially masked by its own canyon. Access to it is from Hamragarðar farm along the road, east of Markarfljót.
Right next to Seljalandsfoss, hidden behind a cave
Seljavallalaug
It’s nestled in a narrow valley below the infamous Eyjafjallajökull and it’s the oldest pool in Iceland that is still standing. It was built in 1923 by some visionaries that wanted to provide the locals with a place where they could learn how to swim. Unlike today, where Icelanders won’t graduate school without passing a swim test, most Icelanders didn’t know how to swim in the beginning of the 1900s which was a problem since many of them lived off fishing. When you are driving in the direction from Reykjavík you turn of the ring road (No.1) into road 242 marked Raufarfell. It’s just past Þorvaldseyri (The Iceland Erupts exhibition). You drive until you see a sign that says Seljavellir but if you follow that road you get to a new pool that was built later where you can park. From the car park you walk for 15-20 minutes towards the bottom of the valley and in the end you will see the pool peaking behind a corner.
Directions: http://www.iheartreykjavik.net/2013/05/seljavallalaug-a-hiidden-gem-in-south-iceland/
* Take the 1 to 242 (it will be a small road called Raufarfellsvegur). You should see a sign that says Seljavellir and you’re heading in the right direction! The road takes you to a pool that you park right by, but this is not Seljavallalaug as you’ve probably already guessed. When you hop out of your car you head further (past one or two small houses on your left) and you’ll be walking deeper into the valley. You’ll pass a small waterfall on your left about 1/3 of the way there, and you’ll have to cross over the stream a few times as well. The pool won’t appear until you’re very close to it. Your walk will be at least 15 to 20 minutes, and longer if the weather is unfavorable (like it was for us). I imagine getting to Seljavallalaug in the summer months when it isn’t snowing furiously in your face is easier. It may have been because there was so much snow covering the ground, but it was a little hard to tell where exactly to walk. There isn’t really a designated or marked path. There was a part of the “trail” that seemed to head up and over the river and another part that seemed to walk alongside it. My dude and I decided to take the one that went up higher, and this was a poor choice — we ended up having to go down a very steep area to get back to where we should have been walking all along. Stay close to the stream and you’ll be heading in the right direction. You will cross over the water a few times, so wear waterproof shoes
It’s nestled in a narrow valley below the infamous Eyjafjallajökull and it’s the oldest pool in Iceland that is still standing. It was built in 1923 by some visionaries that wanted to provide the locals with a place where they could learn how to swim. Unlike today, where Icelanders won’t graduate school without passing a swim test, most Icelanders didn’t know how to swim in the beginning of the 1900s which was a problem since many of them lived off fishing. When you are driving in the direction from Reykjavík you turn of the ring road (No.1) into road 242 marked Raufarfell. It’s just past Þorvaldseyri (The Iceland Erupts exhibition). You drive until you see a sign that says Seljavellir but if you follow that road you get to a new pool that was built later where you can park. From the car park you walk for 15-20 minutes towards the bottom of the valley and in the end you will see the pool peaking behind a corner.
Directions: http://www.iheartreykjavik.net/2013/05/seljavallalaug-a-hiidden-gem-in-south-iceland/
* Take the 1 to 242 (it will be a small road called Raufarfellsvegur). You should see a sign that says Seljavellir and you’re heading in the right direction! The road takes you to a pool that you park right by, but this is not Seljavallalaug as you’ve probably already guessed. When you hop out of your car you head further (past one or two small houses on your left) and you’ll be walking deeper into the valley. You’ll pass a small waterfall on your left about 1/3 of the way there, and you’ll have to cross over the stream a few times as well. The pool won’t appear until you’re very close to it. Your walk will be at least 15 to 20 minutes, and longer if the weather is unfavorable (like it was for us). I imagine getting to Seljavallalaug in the summer months when it isn’t snowing furiously in your face is easier. It may have been because there was so much snow covering the ground, but it was a little hard to tell where exactly to walk. There isn’t really a designated or marked path. There was a part of the “trail” that seemed to head up and over the river and another part that seemed to walk alongside it. My dude and I decided to take the one that went up higher, and this was a poor choice — we ended up having to go down a very steep area to get back to where we should have been walking all along. Stay close to the stream and you’ll be heading in the right direction. You will cross over the water a few times, so wear waterproof shoes
Directions in winter: http://tremendoustimes.com/2015/02/20/how-to-get-to-seljavallalaug-my-favorite-secret-of-south-iceland/
Skogafoss Waterfall
Skogafoss ("SKOH-ga-foss") is 60m with a width of 25m. The official path climbed alongside the cliffs surrounding the recess containing the falls to yield precarious top down views of not only the waterfall but also the view towards the Atlantic Ocean as well. This trail also continued further up the Skoga River where there were many more waterfalls.
DC-3
On Saturday Nov 24, 1973 a United States Navy Douglas Super DC-3 airplane was forced to land on Sólheimasandur’s black sand beach in the south of Iceland after experiencing some severe icing. Luckily all crew members survived the crash, but the airplane’s fuselage was abandoned. After driving past Skógafoss going East on Route 1, you’ll cross a bridge with blinking yellow lights and a dirt access road to Sólheimajökull Glacier on the left. There’s one fork on the dirt road, and you’ll want to stay left here. After that the road heads straight onto the barren black sand beach towards the ocean. There's banned access to vehicles driving on the beach. You have to walk 4km to the plane from the road.
Turnoff GPS Coordinates 63.4912391,-19.3632810
Airplane GPS Coordinates 63.459523,-19.364618
http://expertvagabond.com/airplane-crash-wreckage-iceland/
Halsanefshellir Cave at Reynisfjara Beach (top) and Myrdalssandur (bottom)
Reynisfjara, a black sand beach, surrounded by roaring surf, and the hexagonal basalt columns of Reynisfjall mountain; oft befriended by North-Atlantic storms, three titanic rocks, said to be the petrified carnal remains of careless trolls hit by sunlight, stand strong in the constant spray of sea, facing only the strange dark caves, gaping in the cliff-face. In walking distance is Dyrhólaey, a gigantic pillar of dark lava arching 120 meters into the sea, forming a peninsula from which travellers can enjoy a brilliant view of the Mýrdalsjökull glacier, and the South Icelandic coastline.
Dyrhólaey
View tongue from RT 221
Vik
Kjarval supermarket, 10am-6pm Sat, closed Sun?
Svarta Fjaran - cafe/restaurant on Reynisfjara beach, 11am-9pm, 2400-5000ISK ($20-$40)
Vikurskali - fast food, 11am-9pm, 1200-3000ISK ($10-$25)
Halldorskaffi, pizza and veg burgers, 11am-9pm ~2400ISK ($20 veg pizza)
Vik Soup Company
Eldhraun lava field
The impressive Eldhraun lava field is the biggest lava flow in the world. It occurred during the Laki eruption of the late 1700s. The enormous site, which is 565 square kilometers (218 sq mi), is where the Apollo 11 crew trained for their moonwalk.
Kjarval supermarket, 10am-6pm Sat, closed Sun?
Svarta Fjaran - cafe/restaurant on Reynisfjara beach, 11am-9pm, 2400-5000ISK ($20-$40)
Vikurskali - fast food, 11am-9pm, 1200-3000ISK ($10-$25)
Halldorskaffi, pizza and veg burgers, 11am-9pm ~2400ISK ($20 veg pizza)
Vik Soup Company
The impressive Eldhraun lava field is the biggest lava flow in the world. It occurred during the Laki eruption of the late 1700s. The enormous site, which is 565 square kilometers (218 sq mi), is where the Apollo 11 crew trained for their moonwalk.
DAY 2: SOUTHEAST
Fjaðrárgljúfur is a magnificent and massive canyon, about 100 meters deep and about two kilometres long. It's 3.5km north of the Ring Road, left on Rt 206. The canyon has sheer walls, and is somewhat serpentine and narrow. The bedrock in Fjaðrárgljúfur is mostly palagonite from cold periods of the Ice Age and is thought to be about two million years old. The river Fjaðrá has its source in the mountain Geirlandshraun and falls off the heath edge in this stunning canyon until it makes it down into Skaftá river. Fjaðrá has changed a lot in the course of time. Today Fjaðrá is often rather low in water and therefore hikers can safely choose to walk inside the canyon. However, wading is necessary fairly often. Deep in the canyon there are waterfalls so one needs to walk the same way back. Most people choose to walk along a walking path up on the canyon’s edge while simultaneously enjoying the view above the canyon.
Near villages: Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Svartifoss in Skaftafell Park
Numerous hiking trails rest across the campground, leading to such natural treasures as Svartifoss (Black fall), which flows over a sublime cliff of black basalt columns.
2-3hr hike to falls and glacier lookout, then back to the lot
2-3hr hike to falls and glacier lookout, then back to the lot
Glacier Lagoon Jokulsarlon, on the borders of Vatnajokull National Park. You'll see icebergs in a variety of styles - from white streaked with charcoal-black soot, to translucent formations resembling glass and gorgeous chunks of powder blue. The beach is located on the west side of the bridge; the east side of the bridge beach is okay, but not as good as the west. These sites are best experienced during low light in the early morning or evening.
Near villages: Hofn, Djupivogur
Höfn FOOD
Hafnarbuðin: fast food, 9am-10pm, 400-1600ISK ($3-14)
Pakkhús Restaurant
DAY 3: EAST
Hofn
Hafnarbudin fast food, 9am-10pm, 400-1600ISK ($3-14)
Netto supermarket, 9am-6pm
Vestrahorn Mountains on Stokksnes peninsula
breiðdalsvík fishing village
Kaupfjelagid cafe, 10:30-6pm summer?
Hengifoss
Iceland's 2nd highest waterfalls, southwest of egilsstadir, RT 931
Egilsstadir
Netto supermarket, 9am-8pm, behind the N1 petrol station
Bonus supermarket, 11am-6:30pm, on N1
Cafe Nielsen in Egilsstadir's oldest house, 11:30-11:30pm, pasta/salad bar 1850ISK ($15)
Salt cafe-bistro, 10am-11pm, 1300-3000ISK ($10-$25)
Seyðisfjörður
Seyðisfjörður, a fjord skillfully carved by the ice age glacier, is distinguished by excellent harbour facilities and Norwegian heritage. Seyðisfjörður has been an important trading center from the nineteenth century up to modern times, due to natural harbor and proximity to the european continent. The colourful, Norwegian-style wooden houses, dating from the early years of the 20th. century render this village unique in Iceland. Walking trails around town, out along the coast, or by the Fjarðará River, allow for many pleasurable and relaxing experiences. During summer, Seyðisfjörður offers a thriving arts scene, with visiting artists and growing community of artists residents. The Skaftfell Cultural Centre contains works by some of these, including the Swiss-German artist and former Seydisfjordur resident, Dieter Roth (1930-1998). Seyðisfjörður is home to approximately 700 residents, who have traditionally lived off fishing. In recent years, however, tourism has grown rapidly.
Puffins
Borgarfjörður Eystri, East Iceland
Large puffin colonies on the island of Hafnarhólmi, and the chance to get up-close-and-personal with the birds. There's a special hideout viewing location near the harbour of the town which allows visitors to view a wide variety of unique bird species native to the area. A popular puffin spot is Borgarhólmi which you can reach by car and on foot.
Skalinn fast food, 8am-10pm
Skaftafell bistro, 11:30-10pm, 1200-3200ISK ($10-$25)
Kaffi Lara cafe-bar, 11:30am-1:30am
Mondays - Fridays from 06.30 am - 20:30
It is an outdoor swimming pool, 25 meters long, 2 hot tubs, a childrens pool and a water slide.
DAY 4: NORTHEAST
Jardbodin Geothermal Spa
Grjótagjá
A small cave created by a fissure in the crust. It is filled with geohermally heated water in a pool that is between few centimeters and few meters deep. There are 2 entrances to the cave. Both require that you climb down a small wall of big rocks. It is not too difficult but not recommneded for peoaple with need problems. Be aware that the roof is not stable. Bring Headlamp
Mt. Namajfall and Hverarond/ Hverir
One of the most bizarre attractions in the region are the mud pits of "Hverarond", which are so hot that they actually boil. The hot spring area named (Hverarond), east of "Mt. Namafjall", is one of the largest sulfur spring areas in Iceland. From there, a short trail lies up the mountain. To the "Namaskard" pass, and from there the trail leads down to the highway and back. Extreme caution must be taken in the high temperature area, as the soil may give. People are known to have sustained serious burns in this area. "Hverarond", which are so hot that they actually boil. The hot spring area named (Hverarond), east of "Mt. Namafjall", is one of the largest sulfur spring areas in Iceland. From there, a short trail lies up the mountain. To the "Namaskard" pass, and from there the trail leads down to the highway and back. Extreme caution must be taken in the high temperature area, as the soil may give. People are known to have sustained serious burns in this area.
Krafla Volcano - Viti crater - dangerous road to access in winter?
The Krafla Caldera is a 10km long, 2km deep, cauldron-like geological feature perched on the edge of the Eurasian and American tectonic plates. A collapsed, but still active volcanic area, in total there’s been 29 recorded eruptions, the most recent of which was the Krafla Fires in the 1970s. Víti Maar (The Crater of Hell) is a volcanic crater formed in 1724 by an eruption of steam. Its opaque teal green lake and easily accessible road create one of the photographic hotspots on the circuit around Lake Mývatn. For those wishing to take a walk, there is a 30 minute trail around the edge, which leads on to a hot spring. Take care with children or if it’s a rainy day, the slopes are steep and the path can be slippery. The carpark is next to the rim; The tour of the rim can be done in is one hour.
From the carpark the half on the right side is easier. I found the left side slippery and difficult even in dry conditions. I think the best views of the crater are on the left side while the best views of the surrounding mountains were on the right. PLus the best views of the surrounding mountains are on the left; Follow the path don’t stay on the small geothermal area. the sign was only on one side but it does says that the sole of your shoes can melt.
Hverfjall Pseudocrater
The rim is only accessible by two paths. It is strictly forbidden to use other routes in ascent or descent
From the parking – it is a steady climb on a gravel path, 10 to 20 min
From Dimmuborgir, it is an even steeper climb (and it requires first a 45min flat walk to the base of the crater)
To tour the rim, it takes 1h30 at a slow pace. If you don’t want to tour it, the best views are at one fifth counterclockwise from the parking climb
Easily spotted around Lake Myvatn in Northern Iceland, Hverfjall is a bare symetrical and circular explosion crater thought to be 2800 – 2900 years old. It is about 140 metres deep and 1km in diameter which makes it one of the largest of its kind in the world. The rim is only accessible by two paths. It is strictly forbidden to use other routes in ascent or descent
From the parking – it is a steady climb on a gravel path, 10 to 20 min depending on your level of fitness. To tour the rim, it took me 1h30 at a slow pace. If you don’t want to tour it, the best views are at one fifth counterclockwise from the parking climb
From Dimmuborgir, it is an even steeper climb (and it requires first a 45min flat walk to the base of the crater)
Dimmuborgir
Dark castles, dark forts, dark citadels… however you translate the word Dimmuborgir, it should give you some idea of the mangled forms that lie within. Twisted towers of coagulated rock breach the earth’s surface to form a lava field full of giant pillars, chimneys and tubes to scramble across. These dramatic structures never fail to impress and are one of Iceland’s most popular tourist destinations. Quite literally like the icing squirted on the geological cake of Lake Mývatn, these rock formations are completely unique. The only other similar land mass known to exist being beneath the sea, off the coast of Mexico. They are thought to be the remains of a lava reservoir which formed above a lake. As it began to cool, the reservoir was released, leaving only the bizarrely shaped remnants you see today. There is a range of hiking routes through Dimmuborgir taking anything from 10 minutes to 1 hour. The bigger paths will lead you to one of the most exciting rock formations, The Church, which has a large enclave you can walk through. There is also a longer hiking route leading from here to the top of the barren-looking Hverfjall volcanic crater. You can see this looming in the distance as you pass around the eastern side of the lake. The Dimmuborgir cafe sells a hearty lamb stew and loaves of rye bread baked in the local geothermal vents. The relative altitude and easy parking makes this a great place to take photos across the lake as well.
Church circle (Kirkjuhringur) – 2.3 km – 1h takes you to the most famous feature: the church
http://www.zigzagonearth.com/dimmuborgir-iceland/
Reykjahlid
Kaffi Borgir (next to Dimmuborgir), 9am-10pm, 1800-4100ISK ($15-$35)
Daddi's pizza, 11:30-11pm, 1300-2650ISK ($10-$20)
Samkaup-strax supermarket (gas station), 10am-6pm
DAY 5: NORTH
Siglufjordur
Having wound northeast around the convoluted coast for 60km from Hofsós, Route 76 cuts through an unpleasantly dark and narrow single-lane tunnel to land you at the enjoyably remote fishing port of SIGLUFJÖRÐUR, a highlight of any trip to the northwest. The country’s most northerly town, Siglufjörður clings precariously to the foot of steep mountain walls which enclose an isolated narrow fjord on the very edge of Iceland: the Arctic Circle is barely 40km away and you’re as far north here as Canada’s Baffin Island and central Alaska. Winters can be particularly severe, though in summer, Siglufjörður makes an excellent base from which to hike across the surrounding mountains. Today, Siglufjörður’s heyday as a herring-fishing town is long gone and the place is considerably quieter, with a population of just thirteen hundred people. It’s a pleasant spot, consisting of a handful of parallel streets with unkempt multicoloured homes grouped around the main street, Túngata, which turns into Snorragata as it approaches the harbour, busy with the goings-on of a low-key fishing port. Here, you’ll see fishermen mending their nets in the shipyard and fish hanging out to dry – the town still produces kippers (smoked herring) from a factory down by the harbour. Once you’ve seen the herring museum there’s some excellent hiking to be had along the trails that lead up out of the fjord.
Hofsos
www.visitskagafjordur.is, www.hofsos.is, www.visitskagafjordur.is
Mondays - fridays: 07:05 - 13:05 and 17:15 - 20:15
Fee Children 0 - 6 years kr. 0, Adults kr. 700
DAY 6: SOUTHWEST DRIVE TOWARDS REYKJAVIK
Jardbodin Geothermal Spa
The water supplies for the lagoon run straight from the National Power Company´s bore hole in Bjarnarflag. The water has a temperature of about 130°C when it arrives to the huge basin beside the lagoon itself forming an impressive, man-made hot spring. Altogether, the lagoon and the basin contain around 3.5 million litres of water with a temperature of 36 – 40°C. The lagoon itself is a man-made construction, its bottom is covered by sand and gravel. The characteristics of the water are unique in many ways. It contains a large amount of minerals, is alkaline and well suited for bathing. Due to its chemical composition, undesired bacteria and vegetation do not thrive in the lagoon making chloride or any other disinfectant redundant.3500 ISK ($30 adult)
http://www.myvatnnaturebaths.is/
Adult: kr. 3.500.- $30
Towel kr. 700,- $6
1. September - 31. May: 12:00 – 22:00
Entry no later than 21:30
http://www.myvatnnaturebaths.is/
Adult: kr. 3.500.- $30
Towel kr. 700,- $6
1. September - 31. May: 12:00 – 22:00
Entry no later than 21:30
GrjótagjáA small cave created by a fissure in the crust. It is filled with geohermally heated water in a pool that is between few centimeters and few meters deep. There are 2 entrances to the cave. Both require that you climb down a small wall of big rocks. It is not too difficult but not recommneded for peoaple with need problems. Be aware that the roof is not stable. Bring Headlamp
Mt. Namajfall and Hverarond/ Hverir
One of the most bizarre attractions in the region are the mud pits of "Hverarond", which are so hot that they actually boil. The hot spring area named (Hverarond), east of "Mt. Namafjall", is one of the largest sulfur spring areas in Iceland. From there, a short trail lies up the mountain. To the "Namaskard" pass, and from there the trail leads down to the highway and back. Extreme caution must be taken in the high temperature area, as the soil may give. People are known to have sustained serious burns in this area. "Hverarond", which are so hot that they actually boil. The hot spring area named (Hverarond), east of "Mt. Namafjall", is one of the largest sulfur spring areas in Iceland. From there, a short trail lies up the mountain. To the "Namaskard" pass, and from there the trail leads down to the highway and back. Extreme caution must be taken in the high temperature area, as the soil may give. People are known to have sustained serious burns in this area.
The Krafla Caldera is a 10km long, 2km deep, cauldron-like geological feature perched on the edge of the Eurasian and American tectonic plates. A collapsed, but still active volcanic area, in total there’s been 29 recorded eruptions, the most recent of which was the Krafla Fires in the 1970s. Víti Maar (The Crater of Hell) is a volcanic crater formed in 1724 by an eruption of steam. Its opaque teal green lake and easily accessible road create one of the photographic hotspots on the circuit around Lake Mývatn. For those wishing to take a walk, there is a 30 minute trail around the edge, which leads on to a hot spring. Take care with children or if it’s a rainy day, the slopes are steep and the path can be slippery. The carpark is next to the rim; The tour of the rim can be done in is one hour.
From the carpark the half on the right side is easier. I found the left side slippery and difficult even in dry conditions. I think the best views of the crater are on the left side while the best views of the surrounding mountains were on the right. PLus the best views of the surrounding mountains are on the left; Follow the path don’t stay on the small geothermal area. the sign was only on one side but it does says that the sole of your shoes can melt.
Hverfjall Pseudocrater
The rim is only accessible by two paths. It is strictly forbidden to use other routes in ascent or descent
From the parking – it is a steady climb on a gravel path, 10 to 20 min
From Dimmuborgir, it is an even steeper climb (and it requires first a 45min flat walk to the base of the crater)
To tour the rim, it takes 1h30 at a slow pace. If you don’t want to tour it, the best views are at one fifth counterclockwise from the parking climb
Easily spotted around Lake Myvatn in Northern Iceland, Hverfjall is a bare symetrical and circular explosion crater thought to be 2800 – 2900 years old. It is about 140 metres deep and 1km in diameter which makes it one of the largest of its kind in the world. The rim is only accessible by two paths. It is strictly forbidden to use other routes in ascent or descent
From the parking – it is a steady climb on a gravel path, 10 to 20 min depending on your level of fitness. To tour the rim, it took me 1h30 at a slow pace. If you don’t want to tour it, the best views are at one fifth counterclockwise from the parking climb
From Dimmuborgir, it is an even steeper climb (and it requires first a 45min flat walk to the base of the crater)
Dimmuborgir
Dark castles, dark forts, dark citadels… however you translate the word Dimmuborgir, it should give you some idea of the mangled forms that lie within. Twisted towers of coagulated rock breach the earth’s surface to form a lava field full of giant pillars, chimneys and tubes to scramble across. These dramatic structures never fail to impress and are one of Iceland’s most popular tourist destinations. Quite literally like the icing squirted on the geological cake of Lake Mývatn, these rock formations are completely unique. The only other similar land mass known to exist being beneath the sea, off the coast of Mexico. They are thought to be the remains of a lava reservoir which formed above a lake. As it began to cool, the reservoir was released, leaving only the bizarrely shaped remnants you see today. There is a range of hiking routes through Dimmuborgir taking anything from 10 minutes to 1 hour. The bigger paths will lead you to one of the most exciting rock formations, The Church, which has a large enclave you can walk through. There is also a longer hiking route leading from here to the top of the barren-looking Hverfjall volcanic crater. You can see this looming in the distance as you pass around the eastern side of the lake. The Dimmuborgir cafe sells a hearty lamb stew and loaves of rye bread baked in the local geothermal vents. The relative altitude and easy parking makes this a great place to take photos across the lake as well.
Church circle (Kirkjuhringur) – 2.3 km – 1h takes you to the most famous feature: the church
http://www.zigzagonearth.com/dimmuborgir-iceland/
Reykjahlid
Kaffi Borgir (next to Dimmuborgir), 9am-10pm, 1800-4100ISK ($15-$35)
Daddi's pizza, 11:30-11pm, 1300-2650ISK ($10-$20)
Samkaup-strax supermarket (gas station), 10am-6pm
DAY 5: NORTH
Goðafoss
Goðafoss is in located in river Skjálfandafljót which runs through Bárðardalur and Kinn in Northeast Iceland, and is just off main ring road 1 by the farm Fosshóll. It is among Iceland’s larger waterfalls and also very beautiful. Skjálfandafljót runs across a lava field which is approximately 7000 years old. Through the ages the river has dug about 3 km up through the lava field a canyon which just below the falls is about 100m wide. Rocky promontories in the horseshoe shaped edge of the falls divide it into two main falls and a few smaller one, depending on the flow.
Akureyri
Akureyri is Iceland's second largest city, after the greater Reykjavík area. In fact, you can't really call it a city, as the inhabitants are only around 20 thousand, it is more like a town. Akureyri is often branded the 'Capital of the North' within Iceland - as Reykjavík is branded as the 'Capital of the South'. Between the two cities is about a 5 hour drive. Akureyri is a cute town in itself, with plenty of things to do for such a small place, but it is also the gateway to the spectacular beauty of the North, most notably the area surrounding Lake Mývatn, Dettifoss waterfall, Goðafoss waterfall and Ásbyrgi canyon. If you are going to Akureyri, you should spend at least a day inside Akureyri itself but then venture out and explore the nearby beautiful locations.
FOOD
Blaa Kannan Hafnarstraeti 96 (blue teapot in the blue building), lunch buffet 1500ISK ($16)
Te & Kaffi, Hafnarstraeti 91-93, bookstore giftshop and cafe
Netto supermarket (in the mall), 10am-7pm
Samkaup-strax 9am-11pm
Bonus supermarket, 11am-6:30pm
Husavik
Húsavík harbour lies below the bank right in the heart of town. The harbour once boasted a large fishing fleet, bustling with the activity of fishermen. It still serves as a fishing harbour but today’s activity revolves more around the successful whale watching businesses. The first organized whale watching excursions in Iceland started from here in 1995. Since then, whale watching has become a major attraction and Húsavík continues to be the leading destination for whale watching. In addition to the tours, a fascinating whale museum is located right by the harbour.
Goðafoss is in located in river Skjálfandafljót which runs through Bárðardalur and Kinn in Northeast Iceland, and is just off main ring road 1 by the farm Fosshóll. It is among Iceland’s larger waterfalls and also very beautiful. Skjálfandafljót runs across a lava field which is approximately 7000 years old. Through the ages the river has dug about 3 km up through the lava field a canyon which just below the falls is about 100m wide. Rocky promontories in the horseshoe shaped edge of the falls divide it into two main falls and a few smaller one, depending on the flow.
Akureyri
Akureyri is Iceland's second largest city, after the greater Reykjavík area. In fact, you can't really call it a city, as the inhabitants are only around 20 thousand, it is more like a town. Akureyri is often branded the 'Capital of the North' within Iceland - as Reykjavík is branded as the 'Capital of the South'. Between the two cities is about a 5 hour drive. Akureyri is a cute town in itself, with plenty of things to do for such a small place, but it is also the gateway to the spectacular beauty of the North, most notably the area surrounding Lake Mývatn, Dettifoss waterfall, Goðafoss waterfall and Ásbyrgi canyon. If you are going to Akureyri, you should spend at least a day inside Akureyri itself but then venture out and explore the nearby beautiful locations.
FOOD
Blaa Kannan Hafnarstraeti 96 (blue teapot in the blue building), lunch buffet 1500ISK ($16)
Te & Kaffi, Hafnarstraeti 91-93, bookstore giftshop and cafe
Netto supermarket (in the mall), 10am-7pm
Samkaup-strax 9am-11pm
Bonus supermarket, 11am-6:30pm
Husavik
Húsavík harbour lies below the bank right in the heart of town. The harbour once boasted a large fishing fleet, bustling with the activity of fishermen. It still serves as a fishing harbour but today’s activity revolves more around the successful whale watching businesses. The first organized whale watching excursions in Iceland started from here in 1995. Since then, whale watching has become a major attraction and Húsavík continues to be the leading destination for whale watching. In addition to the tours, a fascinating whale museum is located right by the harbour.
Siglufjordur
Having wound northeast around the convoluted coast for 60km from Hofsós, Route 76 cuts through an unpleasantly dark and narrow single-lane tunnel to land you at the enjoyably remote fishing port of SIGLUFJÖRÐUR, a highlight of any trip to the northwest. The country’s most northerly town, Siglufjörður clings precariously to the foot of steep mountain walls which enclose an isolated narrow fjord on the very edge of Iceland: the Arctic Circle is barely 40km away and you’re as far north here as Canada’s Baffin Island and central Alaska. Winters can be particularly severe, though in summer, Siglufjörður makes an excellent base from which to hike across the surrounding mountains. Today, Siglufjörður’s heyday as a herring-fishing town is long gone and the place is considerably quieter, with a population of just thirteen hundred people. It’s a pleasant spot, consisting of a handful of parallel streets with unkempt multicoloured homes grouped around the main street, Túngata, which turns into Snorragata as it approaches the harbour, busy with the goings-on of a low-key fishing port. Here, you’ll see fishermen mending their nets in the shipyard and fish hanging out to dry – the town still produces kippers (smoked herring) from a factory down by the harbour. Once you’ve seen the herring museum there’s some excellent hiking to be had along the trails that lead up out of the fjord.
Hofsos
www.visitskagafjordur.is, www.hofsos.is, www.visitskagafjordur.is
Mondays - fridays: 07:05 - 13:05 and 17:15 - 20:15
Fee Children 0 - 6 years kr. 0, Adults kr. 700
DAY 6: SOUTHWEST DRIVE TOWARDS REYKJAVIK
FOOD
Glaumbær - The old turf farm (GPS 476786 568141), Skagafjordur
February 10 - May 19: 9.00 - 16.00, Sunday to Thursday.
1500 ISK per person (age 18+)
Entrance to the Heritage House in Sauðárkrókur is included in your ticket to the Glaumbær old turf farm exhibition.
February 10 - May 19: 9.00 - 16.00, Sunday to Thursday.
1500 ISK per person (age 18+)
Entrance to the Heritage House in Sauðárkrókur is included in your ticket to the Glaumbær old turf farm exhibition.
Hvitserkur
On Vatnsnes peninsula in North-West Iceland just off shore stands the majestic Hvítserkur, a 15 meters' high monolith. It looks like an animal of some sort, an elephant or a rhino - or even a dinosaurs drinking. It is just awesome! Especially as there is a lot of fulmar nesting on it so it seems to be alive and it is half-white from their excrement, thus the name Hvítserkur - "hvít-" meaning white. I just love monoliths like this one! The legend goes that Hvítserkur is a petrified troll. The troll lived in Strandir and wanted to tear down the bells at Þingeyraklaustur convent. But fortunately it got caught by daylight and as we all know trolls turn into stone by daylight. There is a gravel road leading to Hvítserkur leading down from Ósar and you drive for a couple of minutes down to a parking lot where there are benches and tables. You can either see Hvítserkur from above or walk down to it. There is a trail leading to it from the parking lot and from there you can see it from above. From there is a steep trail leading you to the shore. It is also possible to go straight down to the shore from the parking lot, from there is an easy walk down. But in the summer time the Arctic tern may prevent you from reaching Hvítserkur on that route.
Sidetrip: Snaefellsnese Peninusula
Kirkjufell
Arnarstapi and Hellnar, Gatklettur Arch
BORGARNES
Blomasetrid - Kaffi Kyrrd gift shop and cafeSettlement Center - lunch buffet, 10am-9pm
Pool: 06:00-22:00
In Borgarnes is an old style playground “Bjössaróló” bult by man that lived in Borgarnes.
Glymur is the highest waterfall in Iceland. It takes about 4 hours to get to Glymur and back down.
DAY 7: GOLDEN CIRCLE
Tectonic Rift at Þingvellir National Park
This is also where the North American & Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly splitting apart from each other, creating deep fissures in the ground.
Strokkur Geysir
Strokkur (the churn) is currently the most energetic spouting spring in Iceland. It spouts every few minutes, sometimes to a height of 40 m, yet generally less than 10-20 m. We know little of Strokkur’s age and past history. It was set off during an earthquake in 1789, having then been quiescent for some time. In all probability though, it had been active before. The year after Strokkur started to spout it was extremely powerful and ejected water, gas and steam with tremendous force. Towards the beginning of the following century it spouted with less frequency, yet with such fury that even Geysir paled in comparison. At the time, Geysir’s jets reached a height of 30 m, whereas Strokkur would spout 40 m. https://www.extremeiceland.is/information/about-iceland/geysir-geothermal-field
Gullfoss Waterfall (golden waterfall)
The mighty Hvítá river abruptly disappears into a ravine at a spectacular waterfall called Gullfoss, the next major highlight on Iceland’s Golden Circle. This wide & fast moving river turns a corner and falls 100 feet into a crevice in the earth, producing thick mist & frequent rainbows.
After descending a long staircase from the parking lot, a concrete pathway allows visitors to walk along the edge and look down into the roaring cascade of water. The area around the falls gets pretty windy, so a waterproof jacket (and maybe even pants) is recommended if you plan to get close. The dramatic scenery at Gullfoss makes it one of Iceland’s most popular attractions. Gullfoss waterfall is located off the main road, so you have to backtrack a bit to continue on the Golden Circle route. There is a road that continues past, but it’s one of Icealand’s notorious F-roads that requires four-wheel drive.
ARKANES FOOD
Skokkin Cafe, 2 Kirkjubraut
Ferstikluskali - no frills, Hvalfjordur, Akranes, near Glymur falls
Gamla Kaupfelagid, 11:45 - 3am
DAY 8: REYKJAVIK
The Laundromat Café
Cafe Gardurinn - veg cafe
Graenn Kostur - veg restaurant
Icelandic Fish and Chips
Ship Graveyard Playground in Reykjavik's old harbor
Hverabraud: Baked bread in the geothermal ground
Sky Lagoon
