South Iceland Self Drive Adventure

Fly to Iceland and collect your hire car. Next stop, take a dip in the geothermal waters of the country’s star attraction—the iconic Blue Lagoon. Known for its healing and well-being qualities, the 37-39° water is rich in active ingredients including algae, natural minerals and the Blue Lagoon’s signature ingredient—white silica mud. After indulging in this therapeutic experience, drive to The Greenhouse. An ideal stay for the adventurous traveller, The Greenhouse is a beautifully sustainable stay hidden in the mountainous landscape of Hveragerði.

This morning, experience Iceland’s longest zipline. Glide across Kambar plateu towards Reykjadalur hot spring valley. Continue on to Vik. The Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck can be seen on the journey, and it is also possible to travel to the Westman islands to visit the Beluga Whale Sanctuary. Depending on your preferences, if you continue on to Vik, perhaps stroll along the world-famous black-sand lava beach at Reynisfjara and enjoy a great view from Cape Dyrholaey. From Vik, why not join a three-hour tour to the Katla Volcano and Myrdalsjokull glacier to visit some of Iceland’s most impressive natural ice caves?

Today, head for the Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon and Diamond Beach. Jökulsárlón is a stunning glacial lagoon where icebergs of all shapes, sizes and in many hues of blue, turquoise and white, break off from the glacier and float around the lagoon. Walk the shores of the lagoon to admire the surreal shapes and take time to photograph the lagoon‘s wonderful, mirror-like reflections. Continue on to Foss Hotel Glacial Lagoon, a calming retreat between Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon and Skaftafell National Park.

This morning, opt to hike one of many trails in Skaftafell National Park, where dramatic cliff faces create snow dusted, winding valleys. Or perhaps embark on a Kayaking and ATV Safari. Beneath Sólheimajökull Glacier, glide across the icy waters of Sólheimajökull Glacier Lagoon. On the ATV safari, head to the stunning coastline and along black sand beaches to witness breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Marvel at the views of Dyrhólaey, a peninsula that is the southernmost tip of the country, and witness Mýrdalsjökull glacier in the distance.

Journey back along the infamous Route One to visit Skogafoss and Seljandsfoss. Follow the path behind the cliff base at Seljandsfoss and experience its power up close as you walk behind the tumbling waters. Skogafoss is a short drive away and just as breathtaking. After a spot of lunch, travel to Panorama Glass Lodge. Tonight, sleep under a sky full of stars. You may even be lucky enough to drift off to the swirling dance of the aurora overhead.

Head into the wilderness to experience the sights of the famous Golden Circle. Discover Thingvellir National Park, where the first Icelandic parliament was established over 1000 years ago, see mighty Gullfoss waterfall plunge into a 32 metre crevasse and visit the geothermal fields to witness Strokkur geyser erupt 20 metres into the sky. Take in the collection of spectacular sights before driving to Akranes Panorama Cabin, where you’ll get the chance to spend another night under the magical skies of Iceland.

Travel to the capital and check in to your hotel. Perhaps wander up to Hallgrímskirkja church, Reykjavík's main landmark and tower, which can be seen from almost everywhere in the city. At the top, there are a few steps to the open-air viewing platform. You’ll find Sandholt Bakery close by, a great place for a pit-stop and a cuppa.

Spend some time exploring the city today. You’ll find the glittering Harpa Concert Hall close by and be sure to take a stroll up the main shopping street, Laugavegur. You may wish to head to the harbourside to visit FlyOver Iceland—an exhilarating flight experience where you will hang suspended, feet dangling, before a 20-metre spherical screen while a film whisks you away on an exhilarating journey across Iceland. We also recommend visiting Sky Lagoon, one of the newest geothermal attractions in the city and take part in the revitalising seven step ritual.

Rise this morning and prepare for your return journey.