Iceland Backroads | Self Drive Holiday West Iceland

iceland west fjords isafjordur view istk

Iceland Backroads

from £2918 excluding flights

14 nights
May-Sep

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Highlights

Walk along the coast at Arnarstapi with its quaint fishing village

iceland snaefellsnes orcas grundarfjordur rth

Search for whales on a boat trip from Olafsvik

Count all seven tiers of the majestic Dynjandi waterfall

Encounter puffins at Latrabjarg bird cliffs

Marvel at spectacular Hraunfossar waterfall

See the black-sand beaches and waterfalls on the South Coast

Why this trip...

Tailor made

This itinerary can be tailor made to suit you and is intended to give you a guideline of what is possible in a given timeframe

Well-researched route

We've put our years of experience into creating this well-paced itinerary that includes the places we know you'll enjoy

Explore at leisure

With the route, transport and accommodation sorted, each day offers the freedom to explore

Overview

This immersive self-drive itinerary showcases Iceland’s spectacular west from Snaefellsnes to the less-visited West Fjords returning south via Husafell to spend time on the south coast. Rugged coastlines, snow-capped volcanoes, iconic waterfalls, glaciers and geothermal springs are just a few highlights on this self-drive holiday.

Explore the mystical Snaefellsnes Peninsula, home to the striking Kirkjufell mountain. The dramatic coastline is perfect for hiking or perhaps try a more demanding trip up to the Snaefellsjokull ice cap. Being one of the best areas for whale watching in Iceland, whales are often spotted from the shore or take a boat trip for a better chance to spot these giants of the sea.

The less-explored West Fjords offer empty roads, mountain peaks, wildlife and hikes to remote, yet stunning areas like the Hornstrandir peninsula, home to the local Arctic fox. The sheer cliffs at Latrabjarg, Iceland’s westernmost point, are home to vast numbers of seabirds including puffins and kittiwakes.

Return south via Husafell and the iconic Golden Circle before spending time exploring the south coast visiting the waterfalls Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss and the rock arch at Dyrholaey. Complete your journey through the dramatic lavascapes of the Reykjanes Peninsula.

Itinerary

Fly to Keflavik and collect your vehicle. Take the short drive to Northern Lights Inn and if time allows drive around the rugged coastline of the western tip of the peninsula. Scenery here is dramatic with the crashing waves on to the black lava field. Visit Brimketill, a small, naturally carved pool by marine erosion. According to a legend, a giantess called Oddny used to frequently bathe here. Overnight at Northern Light Inn.

Following the coastline of Reykjanes Peninsula head north towards Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Passing Reykjavik and the mighty Mt Esja, arrive at the beautiful Hvalfjordur. Drive through the tunnel and head towards Borgarnes and Snaefellsnes. Check in to your hotel for a two night stay.

Explore the scenic Snaefellsnes Peninsula, walking among the fantastic coastal formations at Arnarstapi and visit the fjords and fishing villages along its north side where you find the iconic Kirkjufell mountain and waterfall. The western tip is scattered with extinct volcanic craters, rugged and dramatic coastal scenery, hidden coves and fantastic walking opportunities. Keep a look out for orcas and dolphins patrolling the coastline. In clear weather you may have views of the mystical cone-shaped volcano and Snaefellsjokull icecap.

iceland snaefellsnes kirkjufellsfoss in front of kirkjufell rth

iceland snaefellsnes londrangar volcanic plugs rth

iceland snaefellsnes arnarstapi person admiring view rth

Spend the morning at leisure or perhaps join a 3-hour whale watching boat trip from Olafsvik. In the afternoon make your way to Stykkisholmur for the ferry departure at 15:00. The Baldur ferry calls in at the beautiful island of Flatey before arriving in Brjanslaekur at 18:00. Spend the next two nights in the southern part of the West Fjords.

Enjoy the stunning fjord and mountain views as you drive to the bird cliffs at Latrabjarg, the westernmost point in Iceland and a must-see for bird watchers. Take your time here to enjoy the most spectacular views and teaming birdlife. The nearby Raudasandur beach is a beautiful reddish colour and can be viewed from a distance or take the 1km hike down, which involves wading a shallow river.

iceland west fjords latrabjarg bird cliffs rth

iceland west fjords raudisandur beach istk

west iceland ferry across breidafjordur from stykkisholmur rth

Heading north along Road 2, the scenery becomes more dramatic and there is a new view around every corner. The highlight of today is the thunderous Dynjandi waterfall. This fan shaped collection of falls cascades 100 metres down blending with six smaller falls as it descends. Take a short hike up to the viewing area to fully enjoy this spectacular natural site. Continue north making stops at the tiny fishing villages of Flateyri and Sudureyri before arriving in Isafjordur for a three night stay.

Continue north making stops at the tiny fishing villages of Flateyri and Sudureyri before arriving in Isafjordur for a three night stay.

It is easy to explore the town on foot before getting in the car driving to the nearby town of Bolungarvik. Take the road up to the radio mast station for the most amazing views of the sea and surrounding mountains.

iceland west fjords breidavik village patrekfjordur istk

iceland west fjords bolungarvik turf houses istk

iceland west fjords dynjandi red anorak istk

Exploring the area by foot, bike or kayak, or perhaps take an optional day trip by boat to the isolated and uninhabited Hornstrandir. This remote area is now protected and thriving with flora and fauna, such as arctic foxes, birds, seals and plants. Hiking in the mountains and past abandoned settlements you can enjoy the spectacular panoramic views across Isafjardardjup bay and Jokulfirdir glacier fjords to Drangajokull glacier.

The snaking coastline guides you in and out of the narrow fjords finally reaching the mountain plateau leading to Holmavik and the beautiful Strandir coast. Take the panoramic drive along the coast to Djupavik and look out for the seals along the way. There are many scenic stops and the old herring factory in Djupavik is an interesting and dramatic building to photograph. Overnight in Laugarholl or Drangsnes.

Heading south to Husafell. At Reykholt visit the church and the cultural centre of Snorrastofa, named after Iceland’s best-known author Snorri Sturluson. Here you also find Snorralaug, a geothermally heated pool preserved from Iceland’s medieval period. Also visit Iceland’s largest geothermal area, Deildartunguhver and the nearby Krauma Spa for a relaxing bathe before heading to Hotel Husafell for a two-night stay.

Spend the day exploring the area on foot or by car. Perhaps take an optional excursion to the Vidgelmir Caves or Into the Glacier. Enjoy the thermal baths at the hotel.

iceland langjokull 8wd into the glacier experience

Today’s journey will take you to the stunning Hvalfjordur, and then on to the Thingvellir national park, which is part of the fissure zone running through Iceland in the boundaries of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Continue to the beautiful 2-tiered waterfall Gullfoss and the Geysir geothermal area where the famous Strokkur spouts every few minutes. Also visit the Faxi falls on your way to Hveragerdi for a two night stay.

Take a leisurely drive along the beautiful south coast, visit Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where you can walk behind the falls and the more hidden, yet stunning falls of Gljufrafoss. Continue to 60-metre high Skogafoss and perhaps hike to the top of the waterfall for amazing views of the south coast and the sea. The Dyrholaey birdcliffs are teaming with seabirds and here you normally find a colony of puffins (until mid August). Drop in at The Lava Centre, a great place to learn more about the volcanoes in Iceland, many of which you can see on your drive along the south coast.

south west iceland people walking behind seljalandsfoss rth

A leisurely day exploring the Reykjanes Peninsula, which is on the drift zone between the North American and Eurasian plates. Visit the Krysuvik hot spings, the mudpools and steam vents at Gunnuhver, walk across the bridge between the continents, drive along the shores of the Kleifarvatn lake and perhaps end your day at the Blue Lagoon Spa. Overnight at Northern Lights Inn.

Return your vehicle to Keflavik Airport in time for your flight back to the UK.

Excursions

Iceland

Eyjafjallajokull by Superjeep

from £225

4 hours | Year round

This unique superjeep tour takes you up onto Eyjafjallajokull, the glacier atop the volcano that infamously erupted in 2010.

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Iceland

Ice Adventure on Vatnajokull Glacier

from £162

3.5 hours | Year round

Explore the glacier in a superjeep.

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Iceland

Thorsmork and Eyjafjallajokull volcano by Superjeep

£300

7 hours | Jun-Sep

A fascinating day trip by Superjeep, this excursion departs from Reykjavik and heads to the magnificent southern coast of Iceland.

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Iceland

Katla Ice Cave Tour

from £175

3 hours | Year round

Explore the inside of a remote natural ice cave with its beautiful colours and formations in the company of an experienced guide.

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Iceland

Landmannalaugar by Superjeep

from £250

8 hours | Year round

A journey through the wild and beautiful Icelandic highlands, this excursion explores colourful rhyolite mountains, bubbling hot springs and curious rock formations.

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Iceland

Snowmobiling on Myrdalsjokull Glacier

from £222

2.5 hours | Year round

This exhilirating snowmobiling adventure takes you to the top of the spectacular Mýrdalsjökull glacier, offering, weather permitting, breathtaking views over South Iceland,…

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Iceland

Snowmobiling on Eyjafjallajokull Glacier

from £188

3 hours | Year round

Snowmobiling on the infamous Eyjafjalajokull glacier is the perfect length of time for first-time riders and individuals looking for a scenic, fun…

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Iceland

Snowmobiling on Langjokull

from £182

3 hours | Year round

An exhilarating snowmobile trip on Iceland's second largest glacier, this journey heads to the sparkling expanse of Langjokull, which stretches to a…

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Iceland

Inside the Volcano

from £294

6 hours | May-Oct

A unique opportunity to explore inside a volcano

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Iceland

Lava Centre

from £31

Various hours | Year round

The new Lava Centre offers visitors a full multimedia experience; immersing guests into Iceland’s volcanic and seismic life.

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Iceland

The Icelandic Lava Show

from £37

40 minutes | Year round

The new Icelandic Lava Show is the only show in the world where you will be able to witness the sight and…

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Iceland

The Lava Tunnel

from £53

Year round

Explore the magnificent lava tunnel Raufarhólshellir, one of the longest and best-known lava tubes in Iceland

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Iceland

Blue Ice Experience

from £125

3 hours | Mar-Aug

Walk on Svinafellsjokull Glacier Tongue in Skaftafell National Reserve part of Vatnajokull National Park.

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Iceland

Snorkelling Silfra Day Tour

from £120

3 hours | Year round

The Silfra fissure is one of Iceland's best kept secrets in the heart of Thingvellir National Park, this submerged canyon offers a…

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Iceland

Ice Lagoon Zodiac Boat Tours

from £94

1 hours | May-Oct

Cruise around Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon, one of Iceland's most famous and jaw-dropping landmarks, in an inflatable rib (Zodiac). The design of the…

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Iceland

Boat Trip on the Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon

from £42

35 mins | May-Aug

Boat Trip on the Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon

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Iceland

Horse Riding in the South West

from £67

1 -3 hours | Year round

Experience riding the world's most pure-bred horse on a choice of riding excursions close to Hveragerdi, around a half hour drive from…

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Iceland

Secret Lagoon

from £23

Variable hours | Year round

The 'Secret Lagoon' was built in 1891 and is the oldest swimming pool in Iceland. This outdoor geothermal bathing spot remains at…

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Iceland

Into the Glacier – Ice Cave in Langjokull

from £156

5 hours | Year round

The Langjokull ice cave is a unique and magical glacier experience and is one of Iceland's most innovative attractions located in the…

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Iceland

Cave Explorer

from £50

1.5 hours | Year round

Enjoy an exciting guided walk into the mighty Vidgelmir lava cave a short distance from Husafell near to Borgarfjordur.

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Iceland

Whale Watching from Olafsvik

from £72

3 hours | Feb-Sep

Take a cruise from the coastal village of Olafsvik along the north shore of Snaefellsnes Peninsula on this whale watching excursion. There…

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Iceland

Thorsmork Valley by Superjeep

from £225

5 hours | Year round

A fascinating trip by Superjeep to Thorsmork, a unique area between the three glaciers; Myrdalsjokull, Eyjafjallajokull and Tindfjallajokull.

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Iceland

Blue Lagoon

from £63

At leisure | Year round

Take a dip in the naturally heated waters of the award-winning Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland’s premier attractions.

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Prices and Departures

Price from £2918 excluding flights

Airfares vary widely and are quoted separately to the holiday price, starting from around £250pp return with Icelandair and British Airways, though may be lower with Play or EasyJet. We'll provide the best fare available at the time of enquiry, which tend to be cheaper the earlier you book.

UK Airports with flights direct to Iceland are Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, Bristol, Manchester, Glasgow and Edinburgh. We can also arrange flights from non-UK destinations. Discover more »

Iceland Volcano Disruption Protection
We are proud of our excellent reputation for looking after our clients, without question. Should the unexpected occur our team of dedicated Travel Specialists are on call 24/7 to make any necessary alternative plans at no cost to you.

What's Included

Accommodation in rooms with private bathroom
Daily breakfast
Car rental throughout with unlimited mileage
No charge for additional driver
24 hour emergency assistance from our team during your holiday
No surcharge guarantee
Full financial protection

This itinerary starts from around £2,918 per person, based on 2 sharing a room with private bathroom in standard hotels, and rental of an intermediate vehicle.

Prices may vary depending on departure date and booking date, as well as any changes to the included components. The final cost of a tailored holiday will be based on the level of accommodation, size of vehicle, included activities, travel season, and how far in advance it is booked. We will confirm the exact price for your holiday in your individual quotation, based on your chosen travel dates and inclusions.

* Choice of Vehicles

We can offer a wide range of rental vehicles for this holiday – our team will be happy to talk you through the options and provide a quote for the most suitable category based on your individual requirements.

4WD

We would always recommend a 4WD for winter travel, but many clients also prefer the greater security and comfort that a larger vehicle provides year round – upgrade your vehicle from as little as £10 per person, per day.
Go electric

With a selection of electric cars now available including the Kia Niro and Volkswagen ID.3, you can choose to upgrade from as little as £12 per person, per day. We recommend this option for summer only, due to the colder temperatures in winter affecting battery range.