Self Drive West Iceland

Day suggestion 1 (recommended first day): VIKING TRAILS

Re-trace the Viking footsteps along the ancient Saga trails of Borgarfjorður with the option of visiting the Settlement Centre for a look into the Viking culture. Continue along Myrar district, passing Eldborg crater on route to Snaefellsnes peninsula where the mysterious Snaefellsjokull glacier presides over its surroundings.

Interesting things to do/places to visit in the area:

Settlement Centre in Borgarnes.

Day suggestion 2: THE SNAEFELLSNES PENINSULA

Lush fjords, volcanic peaks, dramatic sea cliffs and sweeping golden beaches are just a few of the amazing contrasts that characterize the Snaefellsnes National Park. The glistening ice-cap of Snaefellsjokull glacier, believed by many to be one of the most powerful energy centers of the earth, is the crowning jewel. Explore the countless natural wonders of the peninsula;  Arnarstapi sea cliffs with great variety of bird life and the rocky beach of Djupalonssandur before driving along the north coast through bustling fishing villages.

Interesting things to do/places to visit in the area:

Snow scooter tour on Snaefellsjokull glacier,
Taste shark and Brennivin the local schnapps at Bjarnarhofn.

Day suggestion 3: STYKKISHOLMUR AND A TASTE OF THE OCEAN

According to ancient folklore, it is impossible to count the thousands of tiny islands scattered around in the Breidafjorður bay. Not only do they house a rich variety of bird life but seals can also often be spotted on the low-lying skerries. Spend part of the day in the village of Stykkisholmur and surrounding. We recommend sailing out into the bay for a scenic nature and bird watching experience. The highlight of the tour is when a small net-plough is cast overboard, shellfish delicacies are brought on board and everyone gets the chance to taste it fresh from the sea.

Interesting things to do/places to visit in the area:

- Boat tour from Stykkisholmur village,
- Volcano Museum at Stykkisholmur,
- Norwegian house (Museum) at Stykkisholmur,
- Walk to Sugandisey, an island near the harbor that is connected to the mainland. Visit the lighthouse and enjoy the great view over Breidafjordur bay.
- Ruins of the ancient Viking parliament at Thingvellir, as well as a the Sacrificial stone, the altar of Thor.
- Hike up the small mountain Helgafell (Holy Mountain), the former site of a wealthy monastery. The mountain was considered sacred to people of the Saga age.

Day suggestion 4: VISIT THE REMOTE ISLAND OF FLATEY

For a glimpse of the Icelandic island life, take a day trip with the ferry Baldur to the charming island of Flatey, the only inhabited island in Breidafjordur bay and a paradise for bird lovers. A stroll around this quaint village, where most of the houses date from the 19th century and have been preserved in their original style, will no doubt create a feeling of having traveled back in time.

Day suggestion 5 (recommended last day): HISTORY AND NATURE

Visit the historic site of Reykholt, home to one of Iceland’s most famous son. It was at this location that Snorri Sturluson lived and wrote much of the literature that made him the most significant Nordic poet of the Middle Ages. Visit Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls and admire the largest hot spring in the Northern Hemisphere, Deildartunguhver. Continue to Thingvellir National Park, UNESCO site and the original setting for the ancient Icelandic parliament. (If the Kaldidalur valley road is taken a 4wd car is needed).

Interesting things to do/places to visit in the area:

- Snorrastofa (culture- and medieval centre built in memory of Snorri) in Reykholt,
- Cave tour close to Þingvellir,
- Snorkelling in Lake Þingvellir.

Prices

We can tailor make a custom self drive tour for you and your group.
Because of our great range of service we can include any activity you can think of in your tour.
With your help we will design your dream vacation in Iceland.
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