Ever dreamed of a scenic road trip through Iceland’s stunning landscapes? The Ring Road, or Route 1, is a journey that can be tailored to your liking. But how do you start planning an unforgettable trip around Iceland? This guide will show you how to create the perfect Ring Road itinerary that will amaze and inspire you.
Key Takeaways
- The Ring Road or Route 1 is Iceland’s main road that goes all around the country.
- A 12-day Iceland ring road itinerary is best suited for first-time visitors to Iceland.
- Summers (mid-April to September end) are the best time for self-driving in Iceland.
- The Ring Road covers over 800 miles and is recommended to be driven in at least a week with multiple stops.
- Exploring the Golden Circle, South Coast, East, North, and West regions is essential for a comprehensive Iceland road trip experience.
Introduction to Iceland's Ring Road
The Ring Road, or Highway 1, is Iceland’s main road. It goes all the way around the country, covering over 800 miles. This scenic route offers a comprehensive way to experience Iceland’s stunning natural landscapes and cultural highlights.
While it’s possible to drive the entire route in less than 24 hours, it will take at least a week. This is because there are so many photography opportunities and natural wonders to explore along the way.
The Ring Road is the best way to see the highlights of Iceland. This includes the Golden Circle, waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, black sand beaches, glaciers, and more. Renting a car and self-driving the Ring Road is the recommended way to experience Iceland. It allows for complete freedom to stop and explore whenever you want.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Length of the Ring Road | 821.5 miles (1,322 km) |
| Recommended Minimum Travel Time | 1 week |
| Favored Direction | Clockwise |
| Road Conditions | Mostly paved, two-lane road suitable for two-wheel-drive cars |
The Ring Road in Iceland circles the entire country. It offers travelers the opportunity to immerse themselves in the country’s diverse natural landscapes and cultural attractions. Whether you choose to complete the journey in a week or take your time over several weeks, the Ring Road is the ultimate way to experience the best of Iceland.
Planning Your ring road itinerary
Duration and Direction
Exploring Iceland’s Ring Road can be done in different ways. A 12-day trip is great for those who love to see a lot each. For a full journey, 10 days is the minimum, as you’ll want to see all the sights.
Most people take a week to enjoy the Ring, even if they stick to the main road. The best experience is with at least 5 days, but a week is even better. Traveling counterclockwise is popular, starting in the south and moving north and east.
Accommodation and Transportation
Renting a car is the best way to see Iceland, giving you freedom to explore. Pick up your car at Keflavík Airport and head to your first hotel near the Blue Lagoon. The second source also suggests renting a car or campervan for the best Ring Road experience.
Campervans offer the extra benefit of being your home on the road. The third source says a regular car works for the Ring Road, but a 4×4 is better in winter. Renting a car or campervan is the top choice for traveling the Ring Road.
| Duration | Direction | Vehicle |
|---|---|---|
| 10-12 days | Counterclockwise | Rental car or campervan |
| 7 days | Counterclockwise | Rental car or campervan |
| 5-7 days | Counterclockwise | 4×4 vehicle recommended |
Highlights of the Ring Road
The Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is a top spot for first-time visitors to Iceland. It’s a 1-day trip from Reykjavik to famous sites like Thingvellir National Park and Gullfoss Waterfall. It’s a perfect start for a longer Ring Road trip.
Many itineraries put the Golden Circle first. It’s known for its top attractions, including Thingvellir, Gullfoss, and the Geysir area. It’s a key part of any Iceland Ring Road trip.
“The Golden Circle is a popular tourist route near Reykjavik, featuring three iconic natural attractions – Thingvellir, Gullfoss, and the Geysir geothermal area.”
Starting your Ring Road adventure here is a great idea. The Golden Circle offers breathtaking views and geological wonders. It’s a highlight of Iceland’s most visited routes.
The South Coast and Glacier Lagoons
After seeing the Golden Circle, the next stops on the Ring Road are Iceland’s South Coast. This area is full of natural wonders. You’ll see towering waterfalls and dramatic glacial landscapes.
Don’t miss the Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls. Seljalandsfoss has a 40-metre drop, letting you walk behind the water. Skógafoss falls 60 metres. The Vatnajökull Glacier in Skaftafell National Park shows you Iceland’s huge ice sheet.
| Attraction | Key Highlights |
|---|---|
| Seljalandsfoss Waterfall | 40-metre (131-foot) drop, allowing visitors to walk behind the cascading water |
| Skógafoss Waterfall | 60-metre (197-foot) waterfall |
| Vatnajökull Glacier (Skaftafell National Park) | Covers 14% of Iceland’s landmass |
The Sólheimasandur plane crash site is another must-see. A US Navy DC-3 plane landed here in 1973. The wreckage is a haunting sight. Nearby, Reynisfjara’s black sand beaches and Dyrhólaey promontory are stunning.
Then, there’s the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and Diamond Beach. The lagoon is filled with floating icebergs from Vatnajökull. Diamond Beach is a dream for photographers, with icebergs washing up on the shore.
Exploring the South Coast and glacier lagoons is essential for any Iceland trip. These wonders show the island’s diverse beauty.
ring road itinerary: The East, North, and West
The southern part of the Ring Road is famous, but the east, north, and west have stunning views too. The first source lists stops like the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Akureyri, and the Diamond Circle. It also mentions Myvatn’s geothermal wonders.
The second source recommends exploring the Tröllaskagi Peninsula and Borgarfjörður. The third source says a regular car works for most of the Ring Road. But, a 4×4 is better for winter and rough roads. These areas let travelers see Iceland’s beauty and avoid the crowds.
| Region | Top Attractions | Recommended Time |
|---|---|---|
| Snaefellsnes Peninsula | Kirkjufell mountain, Stykkishólmur village, Snæfellsjökull glacier | 1-2 days |
| North Iceland (Diamond Circle) | Dettifoss waterfall, Ásbyrgi canyon, Húsavík (whale watching) | 2-3 days |
| Mývatn area | Mývatn Nature Baths, Dimmuborgir lava formations, Krafla volcano | 1-2 days |
| Tröllaskagi Peninsula | Siglufjörður fishing village, Hofsós swimming pool, Skagafjörður | 1-2 days |
| Borgarfjörður | Deildartunguhver hot spring, Reykholt, Hraunfossar waterfalls | 1 day |
Visiting these less-known areas of the Ring Road lets you see Iceland’s wonders. You can enjoy the country’s varied landscapes beyond the usual spots.
“The Ring Road can be driven in a regular car, but a 4×4 may be necessary to access more remote areas and mountain roads, especially in winter.”
Having a 4×4 is helpful for winter’s rough roads, the third source advises. But, the paved Ring Road is fine for most cars. This makes it easy for many travelers to explore.
Conclusion
Driving Iceland’s famous Ring Road is a dream for many. This guide covers the top spots on this iconic path. From the Golden Circle near Reykjavik to the east, north, and west’s stunning views. Rent a car and drive at your own pace, stopping whenever you want.
An Iceland Ring Road trip is unforgettable, no matter the length. You’ll see dramatic coastlines, thundering waterfalls, and more. This itinerary helps you see the best of Iceland at your own pace.
Ready for an adventure? Start planning your Icelandic road trip now. The beauty of Iceland will leave you with unforgettable memories. Your journey on the Ring Road will be a highlight of your travels.
FAQ
What is the Ring Road in Iceland?
The Ring Road, or Highway 1, is Iceland’s main road. It goes all the way around the country. It covers over 800 miles on Route 1.
How long does it take to drive the entire Ring Road?
You can drive the entire Ring Road in less than 24 hours. But, it’s better to take at least a week. This way, you can enjoy the many photography spots and natural wonders.
What are the highlights of driving the Ring Road?
The Ring Road shows you the best of Iceland. You’ll see the Golden Circle, waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, and black sand beaches. You’ll also see glaciers. Renting a car lets you explore freely, stopping whenever you want.
What is the recommended duration for a Ring Road itinerary?
A 12-day itinerary is great for active travelers. It lets you see a lot each day. But, 10 days is the minimum for the full journey. This gives you time to see all the attractions without rushing.
What type of vehicle is best for driving the Ring Road?
Renting a car or campervan is the best choice. Campervans offer a place to stay as you travel. A 4×4 is better in winter, as some roads are only accessible with it.
What are the must-see attractions on the Ring Road?
Don’t miss the Golden Circle, including Thingvellir National Park, the Geysers at Haukadalur, and Gullfoss Waterfall. The South Coast has attractions like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, and the Vatnajökull Glacier. Also, visit the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara.
Explore the lesser-visited east, north, and west regions. See the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Akureyri, the Diamond Circle, and the Myvatn area. These places are stunning.
