Discover Iceland’s Hidden Gems: A 7-Day Self-Drive Tour Itinerary
Iceland is a land of breathtaking landscapes, dramatic waterfalls, and stunning natural wonders. If you’re looking for an adventure like no other, a 7-day self-drive tour of Iceland is the perfect way to explore this incredible country at your own pace. With the freedom to create your own itinerary and the convenience of having your own wheels, you’ll have the opportunity to discover Iceland’s hidden gems that are often missed by guided tours. In this article, we’ll take you through a 7-day self-drive tour itinerary that will showcase some of Iceland’s most spectacular sights.
Day 1-2: Reykjavik and Golden Circle
Your self-drive tour begins in Reykjavik, Iceland’s vibrant capital city. Spend your first day exploring the charming streets of Reykjavik, visiting landmarks such as Hallgrimskirkja Church and Harpa Concert Hall. Don’t forget to indulge in some Icelandic cuisine at one of the city’s many excellent restaurants.
On day two, hit the road and venture into the famous Golden Circle route. This popular tourist trail includes three iconic attractions – Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. Take your time to soak in the beauty of Thingvellir’s rugged landscapes, witness Strokkur geyser erupting at Geysir, and marvel at Gullfoss’ powerful cascades.
Day 3-4: South Coast Wonders
As you continue your journey along Iceland’s south coast on day three, be prepared to be amazed by its stunning natural wonders. Start by visiting Seljalandsfoss waterfall where you can actually walk behind the cascading water curtain for a unique perspective. Nearby is Skogafoss waterfall with its impressive drop and a hike up to the top for breathtaking views.
Continue eastward and make a stop at Reynisfjara black sand beach, famous for its striking basalt columns and powerful Atlantic waves. Don’t miss the nearby Dyrholaey promontory, which offers panoramic views of the coast and a chance to spot puffins during the nesting season.
Day 5-6: Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach
On day five, head towards Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, one of Iceland’s most awe-inspiring sights. Marvel at the floating icebergs as they make their way from the lagoon to the nearby Diamond Beach. This stretch of black sand is adorned with glistening chunks of ice that have washed ashore, creating a mesmerizing contrast.
If you’re up for an adventure, consider taking a boat tour on the glacier lagoon or joining a guided ice cave tour in Vatnajokull National Park. These experiences will provide you with an up-close encounter with Iceland’s glaciers and give you a unique perspective on their beauty.
Day 7: Reykjanes Peninsula
As your self-drive tour nears its end, spend your final day exploring the Reykjanes Peninsula. This underrated region is home to some truly unique attractions. Start by visiting the Blue Lagoon, Iceland’s most famous geothermal spa where you can relax in mineral-rich waters surrounded by lava fields.
Continue your journey to Gunnuhver geothermal area where you can witness powerful mud pools and steam vents. Don’t forget to visit Reykjanesviti lighthouse for stunning coastal views before heading back to Reykjavik.
Conclusion
A 7-day self-drive tour of Iceland is an adventure of a lifetime that allows you to discover hidden gems beyond the well-trodden path. From exploring Reykjavik’s vibrant streets to witnessing iconic waterfalls and black sand beaches, to marveling at glacier lagoons and relaxing in geothermal spas, this itinerary covers some of Iceland’s most spectacular sights. So grab a map, rent a car, and embark on an unforgettable journey through the land of fire and ice.
This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.
