When you have had enough of the city and want more adventure, take a ride through the Icelandic countryside and you will be amazed.
Rural Iceland is a playground of wild beauty and endless space. The Icelandic countryside is made up of rivers, mountains, valleys and waterfalls. There are also volcanoes and glaciers as well as hot springs. There are many pearls dotted all over the countryside, each with its own powerful appeal. So wherever you go in Iceland, no matter the direction, you will always find something to be breathless about.
Here are some tasters of what can be found in different parts of the country, enjoy discovering them and more.
The Reykjanes Peninsula is home to the famous Blue Lagoon, bubbling pits of clay at Seltún and a bridge between two continents.
West Iceland has the Mt. Kirkjufell in Grundarfjörður, Langjökull glacier which can be entered through a tunnel and waterfalls from underground at Hraunfossar.
The West Fjords are known for their isolated beauty, Dynjandi waterfall and the westernmost point of Europe, Látrabjarg, the true puffin haven.
In the north-west, a huge seal colony makes Hvammstangi famous, Drangey Island, a haven for the outlaw, Grettir-the-Strong and the beautiful town of Siglufjörður with its interesting herring history.
North east Iceland offers a collection of sights to see. The second biggest town, Akureyri is here and Mývatn, a beautiful volcanic lake. You can see Ásbyrgi, and the huge Dettifoss waterfall with its magnificent canyon.
The east is a collection of fjords and valleys, a place of great dimensions. Hengifoss waterfall, the third highest in the country, Hallormsstaðir forest, the biggest in Iceland and the highest free-standing mountain, Mt. Snæfell are all in this part of the country.
In the south you can find Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir hot spring and Þingvellir, the spot where tectonic plates separate as well as the glacier lagoon, Jökulsárlón.
The Icelandic countryside is unspoiled and in some places, very fragile, so care must be taken when you enjoy Icelandic nature. You will notice that the road system is a bit different here than in other countries, but the rules are the same. No stopping on the road to take photos, park in designated areas and get information before setting off. And remember that animals have right of way.
The best way to get the most out of the Icelandic countryside is to drive carefully, walk wisely and leave nothing behind.
Read moreSort by Browse on map
Sort items by your location!
Press the button to sort the items by your current location. You will need to share your geolocation with Visitor's Guide so we can sort the items, but don't worry, we do not save your information or use it for any other purposes.-
Fjallabyggð Siglufjörður
The municipality of Fjallabyggð came into being as an administrative unit when the community of Ólafsfjörður community and the municipality of Siglufjörður were merged in 2006. The population of Fjallabyggð is around 2.015. The construction of the Héðinsfjörður tunnel, which links the two regional centres, has made the Tröllaskagi peninsula an ideal travel
Town or Municipality -
Grindavík Reykjanes Peninsula
Grindavík is one of the biggest fish processing towns in Iceland with an active, industrious harbour. During the summer there is an exhibition of boats from Grindavík along the road of Seljabót near the harbour. At the Icelandic Salt Fish Museum, you will learn how salt fish has had a great influence on life in the country.
Town or Municipality -
Akureyri North East Iceland
The capital of the North and Iceland’s second largest town. Akureyri has a wonderful mixture of culture, adventure and nature.
Town or Municipality -
Stykkishólmur West Iceland
Stykkishólmur is a charming town with beautifully maintained old houses. It has an industrious harbour where boat trips around Breiðarfjörður are offered as well as the ferry Baldur to Flatey island and Brjánslækur in the West Fjords.
The Norwegian House serves as a regional museum for the Snæfellsnes area and it is worth visiting. If you are intere
Town or Municipality -
Vestmannaeyjar South Iceland
Vestmannaeyjar, an archipelago of volcanic islands off the south coast with Heimaey being the only inhabited island. Two historical events have shaped this island, the Turkish invasion of 1627 and the devastating eruption of 1973. A project to unearth buried houses was named Pompeii of the North and is still ongoing.
Town or Municipality -
Þorlákshöfn South Iceland
Þorlákshöfn, the only active fishing village on the south coast due to its natural harbour. It is also the ferry connection for the Westman Islands. Hendur í Höfn is a coffee shop and glass art gallery offering 4-hour courses in glass art. Some of the furniture is made from recycled palettes, giving the coffee shop its unique ambience.
Town or Municipality -
Húsafell Reykholt
Húsafell is the pearl between the lava and the glacier. It was among the first rural tourist services and today, there is a hotel, summer houses, swimming pool, 9-hole golf course and marked walking trails.
Nature Attraction -
Húsavík, the “Whale Watching Capital of Europe” Húsavík
Even though fishing and fish processing are important industries in Húsavík, the town is now well known as the whale watching capital of Europe.
Town or Municipality -
Illugastaðir Hvammstangi
Illugastaðir is the setting for the book Burial Rites. It is an excellent location for seal watching also. On most days of the year, seals can be seen swimming or just lounging on the skerries, close to land. There is a good camping site at Illugastaðir with facilities for camper vans.
Landmark or Historic site -
Sandgerði Reykjanes Peninsula
Sandgerði is a small fishing village with about 1700 inhabitants. A sculpture commemorating drowned fishermen is situated at the entrance to the town and Steinunn Þórarinsdóttir is the sculptor. Suðurnes Science and Learning Centre is a well-equipped research centre for natural science located in Sandgerði. Sea water tanks containing different living organizm
Town or Municipality -
Fossatún Borgarnes
Fossatún gives you an opportunity to meet Grýla, the fearsome mother of the 13 yule lads. A walk around the area reveals many trolls and troll games. Visit the restaurant and listen to old vinyl records while you watch salmon jumping up the Troll waterfall.
Landmark or Historic site -
Hali Farm Höfn
About 60km south of Höfn is the farm, Hali. It is a fifth-generation working farm, with a country hotel and heritage centre called Þórbergursetur, which covers local history and the life of famous author, Þórbergur Þórðarsson, a self-taught man and enthusiastic esperantist. The restaurant is famous for its farm-raised arctic char and local traditional food.
Farm -
Geirfugl Reykjanes Peninsula
Geirfugl is a 1,57m high sculpture by Todd McGrain depicting the now extinct Great Auk. Similar sculptures are found all over the world as part of his Lost Bird Project.
Monument or Street Art -
Möðrudalur Egilsstaðir
Moving away from the coast and into the interior on Road 901, stands Möðrudalur, the highest farm in Iceland (469m above sea level) where you can enjoy Icelandic delicacies from the restaurant as you admire the stunning panoramic views.
Farm -
Ólafsdalur Búðardalur
In Ólafsdalur there is a stately old school house dated 1896, which was the first agricultural school in Iceland. In the summer, a coffee house is open at the school and there are marked walking trails around this beautiful area.
Landmark or Historic site -
Kópavogur Reykjavik Area
Kópavogur, lies south of Reykjavík and is centrally-located in the greater Reykjavík area, with easy access to the nearby towns. Despite its rapid growth in previous years, the town offers unspoilt, family-friendly greens and close proximity to Elliðavatn lake, ideal for a nearby escape to the countryside.
Town or Municipality -
Reykjavik City Pond Reykjavík
Feeding the ducks at the city pond has always been a popular activity with Icelandic families. However, a recent statement from Reykjavík City has discouraged people from feeding bread to the ducks. Still, the pond is well worth visiting as the surrounding area is ideal for outdoor activities. Try walking around the colourful streets of Reykjavík, visiting Hljó
Nature Attraction -
Hvalsneskirkja Sandgerði
Hvalsneskirkja, the current church was built in 1887. Hallgrímur Péturs-son, an esteemed poet in Iceland, was the pastor there from 1644-1651. Hallgrímskirkja in Reykjavík is named after him.
Church -
Brimketill Grindavík
Brimketill is an extraordinary geological feature. It looks like a big, cosy bath tub on the edge of rugged coastline.
Nature Attraction -
Vík í Mýrdal Vík
Vík í Mýrdal is the southernmost seaside village and one that does not have a harbour. Not to be outdone, Vík is famous for its amphibious boats which enable the fishermen to drive out to sea and this also provides an excellent solution for boat trips from Vík.
Town or Municipality -
Siglufjörður North West Iceland
Siglufjörður in North Iceland has 1200 inhabitants and was the capital of herring fishing up to the late 60’s. These glory days have been immortalized in an impressive award-winning museum called The Herring Era Museum, which is housed in five historical buildings and occupies a large part of town.
Town or Municipality -
Hvolsvöllur South Iceland
Hvolsvöllur is a small town with big ideas. Its location is ideal for day trips around this region of waterfalls and glaciers. The impressive LAVA – Iceland Volcano and Earthquake Centre is located here. It is only 30 minutes from Landeyjarhöfn, the ferry port to the Westman Islands.
Town or Municipality -
Hólar Fljót
Hólar in Hjaltadalur was the centre of religion and education for centuries, and is one of two Episcopal seats in Iceland. Today, it is home to the oldest stone cathedral in the country, a university college and a thriving tourism service.
Landmark or Historic site -
Vallanes Egilsstaðir
Vallanes is the pioneer farm for organically-grown produce 10km from Egilsstaður in the Fljótsdalur valley. The “Field-to-Table” visit is a unique experience offered from May to September and the farm also provides accommodation all year. A definite stop for those interested in healthy living.
Farm -
Brjánslækur Patreksfjörður
Brjánslækur is the departure port to Stykkishólmur with the ferry Baldur. Surtarbrandsgil, close by, is one of the most remarkable plant fossil areas of Iceland, declared a protected nature area in 1975. An exhibition of stone fossils from the ravine can be seen in the old vicarage.
Nature Attraction -
Búðardalur West Iceland
Búðardalur is a small village with 260 inhabitants. It is known for its major cheese production, especially the famous Dala Brie and Dala Yrja cheeses. The Leifsbúð Culture Centre at the harbour hosts a coffee house and an exhibition dedicated to the voyages of discovery made by Erik-the-Red and his son, Leif-the-Lucky.
Town or Municipality -
Sólheimar Selfoss
Going inland from Road 1 at Selfoss onto Road 35 towards Geysir, through the farmland valleys, there are a number of little villages that have sprung up around geothermal areas, each with its own character. A wide selection of restaurants, accommodation and activities are on offer in this area.
Farm -
Árskógssandur Dalvík
Árskógssandur is not just the ferry port for Hrísey, it is also home to the famous craft beer brewery Kaldi, which sells top quality beer and boasts a health spa based on beer baths, soaps and shampoos, called the Bjórböðin Spa.
Town or Municipality -
Laugarfellslaug East Iceland
Laugarfellslaug is a natural hot spring in the highlands, which is said to have healing properties. It is wonderful to soak in the hot tub, admiring the view, on top of the world at the Laugarfell hostel which accommodates 28 people and is open all year.
Natural Pool -
Hrísey North East Iceland
Hrísey Island lies in Eyjafjörður and is the second largest island in Iceland (8km2) where the 150 inhabitants are enthusiastic hosts, offering tractor rides, hiking and lighthouse tours. The birdlife on the island is varied and plentiful, the ptarmigan being the main star.
Small island -
Fáskrúðsfjörður East Iceland
The French history of Fáskrúðsfjörður is reflected in the French Museum housed in the beautiful restored historical buildings, the Doctor‘s House and the French Hospital, which are now both part of the Foss Hotel.
Town or Municipality -
Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon Öræfi
Heading south, a little further on from Jölulsárlón is a smaller, less congested lagoon called Fjallsárlón glacier lagoon. Just as spectacular, but slightly hidden, this lagoon is full of floating icebergs and their bluish colours. Boat trips are offered on Fjallsárlón.
Nature Attraction -
Borgarvirki North West Iceland
Borgarvirki, also known as The Citadel is a volcanic plug that was used by the Vikings as a fortress during times of strife. A wonderful view from the top at 177m, but it is not an easy walk.
Landmark or Historic site -
Ásbyrgi Húsavík
Ásbyrgi, a horseshoe-shaped canyon where legend and nature come together. It is a woodland of birch trees and other plants and has lovely walking trails through the area. The tranquility here is magnified by the idyllic lake in the canyon, which is home to a variety of birds.
Landmark or Historic site -
Garðskagi Garður
Garðskagi has two lighthouses which are representative of their times, one from 1897 and the other 1994.
There is a rich bird life on the beach around the lighthouses. In the older lighthouse, there is a little coffee shop. Nearby is an interesting museum.Town or Municipality -
Neskaupstaður East Iceland
Neskaupstaður is a town located in Nordurfjordur, one of the small fjords in the eastern part of Iceland. The name comes from an old farm that was called Nes and that was mentioned also in the settlement book.
Town or Municipality -
Grundarfjörður West Iceland
Grundarfjörður is home to the famous Mt. Kirkjufell. This pretty little fishing village is the centre for whale watching tours on Snæfellsnes as well as where the Storyteller’s Lodge is located. The Lodge is only open for group bookings. Grundarfjörður boasts a wide range of varied accommodation and restaurants.
Town or Municipality -
Hvammstangi North West Iceland
Hvammstangi is the first stop around the Vatnsnes peninsula coming from the south, only 197 km from Reykjavík. This is a charming little village with 550 inhabitants and the biggest seal colony in Iceland.
Town or Municipality -
Hveragerði South Iceland
Hveragerði’s steamy geothermal nature is seen long before arrival to the town. This is a hotbed of beauty, greenhouses and surprises. The Geothermal Park in the middle of town is interesting. There are a number of wonderful walking trails leading through the steamy valley close by.
Town or Municipality -
Kálfatjarnarkirkja Reykjanes Peninsula
Kálfatjarnarkirkja, built in 1893. At that time, it was the biggest country church in Iceland with two floors which could seat all parishioners at once, all 150 of them.
Church -
Stöðvarfjörður East Iceland
Stöðvarfjörður is a tiny town with a garden full of beautiful rocks and minerals. Petra’s Stone Collection is said to be the largest private stone collection in the world and well worth a visit.
Town or Municipality -
Borgarnes West Iceland
Borgarnes is the setting for Egil’s Saga. The Settlement Centre has modern exhibits and displays, depicting Egil‘s Saga and other sagas of Iceland in many different languages. The Safnahúsið in Borgarnes has a very interesting exhibition called Börn í 100 ár (Children over 100 years) as well as a display of Icelandic birds.
Town or Municipality -
Víðgelmir Reykholt
Víðgelmir cave is the biggest in Iceland and one of the largest lava caves in the world. The cave has been protected since 1993. Organized tours are offered throughout the year.
Nature Attraction -
Djúpivogur East Iceland
The last town in the East is Djúpivogur, a quaint fishing village with an interesting display of 34 huge egg sculptures lining the road along the harbour, called Eggin í Gleðivík.
Town or Municipality -
Saxhóll Snæfellsbær
Saxhóll is a crater which has an easy walking trail to the top with the reward of a panoramic view of the National Park.
Nature Attraction -
Kárahnjúkar hydro-electric dam East Iceland
Up in the highlands is the controversial Kárahnjúkar hydro-electric dam, the biggest in Europe. It is 97km from Egilsstaðir with a tarred road all the way. The undisturbed view of the highlands and its peaks is breath-taking. Mt. Snæfell can easily be seen from Kárahnjúkar.
-
Ísafjörður The West Fjords
Ísafjörður is the biggest town in the West Fjords with a population of 2600. There are very many quaint old houses in the old part of town, amongst them, the very interesting Maritime Museum.
Town or Municipality -
Erpsstaðir Búðardalur
Erpsstaðir, a small dairy farm boasting the best ice-cream in Iceland. What is better than tasting dairy products straight from the farm on the farm?
Farm -
The bridge between two continents Grindavík
The bridge between two continents is a small foot bridge over a major fissure which clearly shows the presence of a diverging tectonic plates. The bridge was built as a symbol of connection between Europe and North America.
Landmark or Historic site -
Dimmuborgir Mývatn
Dimmuborgir, an area of daunting lava formations and home to Grýla, an intimidating troll matriarch, is made up of volcanic caves, chimneys and pillars resembling fallen citadels and strange creatures. This dark area is on the east side of Lake Mývatn.
Landmark or Historic site -
Dalvík North East Iceland
Dalvík, a thriving fishing village and departure harbour for trips to Grímsey. The beautiful mountain backdrop provides excellent ski slopes in the winter so Dalvík is fast becoming a ski-hub in the area. The Hvoll Folk Museum which has exhibits of two famous locals, the tallest man in the world, Jóhann the Giant and the third president of Iceland.
Town or Municipality -
Malarrif Snæfellsbær
Malarrif, is a 20m high lighthouse built in 1946. It has been declared a protected site. The Visitor’s Centre for the Snæfellsnes National Park provides information on the nature and culture of the area.
Nature Attraction -
Höfn South Iceland
Höfn í Hornafirði is the northernmost town in South Iceland with around 1633 inhabitants. It serves as a centre for tourism around the southern part of the Vatnajökull National Park. There is an airport connecting Höfn with Reykjavík, making it more accessible from the capital.
Town or Municipality -
Vatnshellir Snæfellsbær
Vatnshellir is a lava cave about 200m long and 35m deep. It is a big, wide cave and guided tours are offered every hour. It is necessary to be warmly dressed as it is cold in the cave.
Nature Attraction -
Grótta Lighthouse Seltjarnarnes
Grotta is a lighthouse located on the tip of Seltjarnarnes Peninsula, in a place that was declared a nature reserve in 1974. The lighthouse was built in 1897 and later, in 1947 was built another one close by. Lately, it became one of the most visited sites in Reykjavik area, being an amazing place for walking, biking or bird watching. Be aware of the fact that the
Landmark or Historic site -
Selfoss South Iceland
Selfoss is a pretty town situated on the banks of the Ölfusá River. It is the largest town in South Iceland and is perfectly located for trips into the southern highlands. It has a large selection of restaurants and accommodation. For chess fans, The Bobby Fischer Centre is full of paraphernalia from the famous chess match between Spassky and Fischer in 1972. Th
Town or Municipality -
Hofsós North West Iceland
Hofsós is a quaint little village with 146 inhabitants. It is one of the oldest trading centres in Iceland and boasts a visible heritage in its renovated buildings.
Town or Municipality -
Urriðafoss Selfoss
Close to Road , this pretty waterfall called Urriðafoss flows gently within the Þjórsá River. The river stands to be harnessed for hydroelectric power, which might threaten the very existence of the waterfall itself.
Nature Attraction -
Stokkseyri South Iceland
Along the coastal road to Stokkseyri stands the Knarrarós lighthouse towering above the horizon, resembling a church steeple. A new role for the disused fish factory in Stokkseyri has culminated in the Culture House which hosts ghosts, trolls and elves as well as Northern Lights.
Museum Town or Municipality -
Vigur Ísafjörður
A visit to the little island of Vigur is like an adventure where the smallest post office in Iceland and the only corn mill in the country exist. There is also a beautiful old farmhouse where homemade bread and coffee are offered. Hundreds of puffins, eider ducks and arctic terns are to be found here.
Small island -
Grímsey North East Iceland
Grímsey, the Arctic Circle island where birds outnumber humans and chess is the favourite past-time. The 100 inhabitants live off fishing and the growing tourism industry. This remote island is a birdwatchers’ paradise and has incredibly beautiful skies, both in summer and winter.
Small island -
Djúpavík Árneshreppur
Djúpavík’s thriving history is felt in the abandoned herring factory that dominates this little cove. This factory, which was bursting with life from 1935-1954, was the biggest one in Iceland and also the biggest concrete structure in the country.
Today the old factory buildings are used for various events and exhibitions. Sigur Rós had a concert for 300Town or Municipality -
Dettifoss North East Iceland
Dettifoss is the most powerful waterfall in Europe, with its massive 500 m³ of water thundering from the height of 44 m every single second down into a 100 m wide abyss. The spray of the water can be seen already several km away.
Nature Attraction -
Krossneslaug Árneshreppur
Krossneslaug is a small swimming pool on the seashore of the North Atlantic Ocean. While lounging in the pool you might very well see a seal or two swimming close by.
Natural Pool -
Svalbarð Þórshöfn
On a farm called Svalbarð, near Þórshöfn, there is a study centre on the leader sheep of Iceland called Fræðasetur um forystufé. These leaders are a special breed unique to Iceland that can predict weather and lead the flock through storms to safety.
Farm -
Skjálfandi Bay Húsavík
In Skjálfandi Bay on the north coast lies Húsavík, a thriving tourist destination. The main attraction is whale watching as whales are prolific in the bay during summer, making Húsavík the whale capital of Iceland.
Landmark or Historic site -
Þjóðveldisbær Selfoss
The farmhouse at Þjóðveldisbær in Þjórsárdalur is a replica of archaeological findings of a mediaeval longhouse buried by the Hekla eruption of 1104 at Stöng. It is quite far out of the way on Road 32, but the landscape and scenery make the detour worthwhile. Open from June to September.
Landmark or Historic site -
Eyrarbakki South Iceland
Eyrarbakki’s heyday might be long gone, but the village is graced with beautifully-preserved buildings from 1890-1920, offering a glimpse into the past. The town has two museums, the Maritime Museum and the Árnessýsla Folk Museum built in 1765. The magical Flói Bird Reserve is a recognized area for about 70 species of wetland birds.
Town or Municipality -
Raufarhöfn North East Iceland
Raufarhöfn, dubbed the Arctic Circle Village, is the location of a monumental project taking place on a hillside close to town. The Arctic Henge is a sundial which aims to capture the midnight sun’s rays between the stone gateways and to cast shadows in specific locations.
Town or Municipality -
Þingeyrarkirkja Blönduós
Þingeyrarkirkja is an impressive ancient stone church which gives a sense of grandeur to the area. It took thirteen years to build, using unusual methods which are attributed to its pristine condition still today. The interior of the church is no less grand with valuable artefacts and features.
Church -
Dynjandi Waterfall Þingeyri
Dynjandi is the greatest waterfall in the West Fjords. The waterfall and surrounding area was declared a protected natural site in 1981.
Nature Attraction -
Suðureyri The West Fjords
Suðureyri is a village which has been an official trading place since just before the turn of last century.
Town or Municipality -
Strandarkirkja Þorlákshöfn
Strandarkirkja in Selvogur near Krýsuvík is the richest church in Iceland. This humble wooden church stands alone next to the crashing waves of the south coast. Hidden forces of the unknown are said to inhabit this church, aiding success and good luck. Open every day in summer, and on weekends in winter. Donations welcome.
Church -
Reykir North West Iceland
Reykir, a campsite with a difference. It is host to a seaside hot tub (about 40°C) called Grettislaug. A remote location with superb views of surrounding mountains and the ocean. It is also the place from which the boat tours to Drangey Island depart.
Landmark or Historic site -
Skálholt Selfoss
Skálholt, a cultural, historical and spiritual centre with a cathedral, tomb of bishops and a museum.
Church -
Flatey West Iceland
Flatey is a peaceful island where time stands still. There are many beautiful old houses on the island as well as a hotel and restaurant. There is also rich birdlife on the island.
Small island -
Hallgrímskirkja Reykjavík
Hallgrímskirkja ("the church of Hallgrimur") is at the top of Skólavörðuholt. The idea of building a church in memory of the poet Hallgrímur Pétursson first arose in 1914. The first designs for such a church were made by State Architect Gudjon Samuelsson. The actual building process extended over many years and the church wasn’t finali
Church -
Havarí Farm Djúpivogur
Havarí Farm is known for its organic vegetarian produce, especially the vegan sausages, Bulsur. The owners, Berglind and Svavar Pétur offer accommodation in the old farmhouse.
Farm -
Vopnafjörður East Iceland
Vopnafjörður is tucked away off the main Road 1 but is well worth the visit over the Hauksstaðaheiði pass on Road 85. The valleys and canyons in the surrounding mountains host well-known salmon rivers.
Town or Municipality -
Borgafjörður Eystri East Iceland
Borgafjörður Eystri is a magnificent fjord tucked away in the mountains of the East. A challenging road down to the village Bakkagerði is duly rewarded by the sheer beauty and tranquillity of the place.
Town or Municipality -
Búðir Snæfellsbær
Búðir is a former trading station which is now a fine hotel. The beautiful little church close by is a popular place to get married in and an attraction for tourists and photographers.
Landmark or Historic site -
Kirkjubæjarklaustur South Iceland
Kirkjubæjarklaustur, a popular pit-stop on Road 1. This tiny village is surrounded by meaningful landmarks revealing its history as a convent. Systrastapi, (Sisters’ Rock) is where two nuns were buried after being burnt at the stake for indecent sexual behaviour and blasphemy.
Town or Municipality -
Ytri Tunga Snæfellsbær
Ytri Tunga is the home of a seal colony where seals can be viewed swimming in the sea or just basking on the rocks in June and July.
Nature Attraction -
Dalir Búðardalur
Dalir is a region in the north-west of Iceland. We are a region of farmers and a small village: Budardalur. The region is sparsely populated and filled with wildlife, such as birds, pristine nature and agriculture.
Town or Municipality -
Slakki Petting Zoo Selfoss
On Road 31 at Laugarás, there is a nice surprise for families. The Slakki Petting Zoo and recreation centre is a great stop for tired kids and frazzled parents. Indoor mini- golf, a restaurant and a good selection of animals to pet.
Farm -
Seltún Hafnarfjörður
Seltún is an active geothermal area with many bubbling mud pots and fumaroles. The minerals deposited by the geothermal activity produce a colourful array of muddy sediment. There are good walking paths around the area.
Nature Attraction -
Hvanneyri Borgarnes
Hvanneyri is a small rural settlement of 270 inhabitants which is interesting to visit. The Agricultural School has been operating since 1898 and the Agricultural Museum has a great collection of farming equipment from the last century. Ullarselið is a shop selling high quality woollen products as well as Icelandic handcrafts.
Town or Municipality -
Egilsstaðir East Iceland
Egilsstaðir is the centre of the East. It is the stop-over point for many visitors to the area whether they come by boat, car or plane.
Town or Municipality -
Súðavík The West Fjords
Súðavík is a small fishing village with about 150 inhabitants. In 1995 an avalanche in the town killed 14 people. There is a beautiful memorial enclosure commemorating those who died. The Arctic Fox Centre is a research centre focussing on the arctic fox, the only indigenous animal in Iceland.
Town or Municipality -
Öndverðarnes Hellissandur
Öndverðarnes is an area of absolute peace and tranquility. The little lighthouse was built in 1973. It was a busy fishing area until 1945 and relics from this time can still be seen.
Nature Attraction -
Gerðuberg Borgarnes
Gerðuberg, just off Road 54, is a magnificent basalt column resembling to a fortress wall. The columns are 14 m tall at their highest and around 1-1.5 m wide. Gerðuberg is a natural heritage site.
Nature Attraction -
Reykjanesbaer Reykjanesbær
Reykjanesbær (Keflavík and Njarðvík) is the perfect place to stay for early departures. This is the biggest populated area on the peninsula with 17 690 inhabitants. There is a variety of services and activities on offer. Along the coastline is a 10 km walking trail.
The Reykjanes Global UNESCO Geopark’s Visitor Centre is located in Duushús. Down by theTown or Municipality -
Rif Hellissandur
Rif is a little fishing village of 155 residents. Strange but true, there is a lively, creative theatre called The Freezer operating in a disused fish factory. Innovative plays about the area and its history, created by the owner, have shot this little theatre into the limelight. The Freezer also has a coffee shop and an artists’ residency.
Town or Municipality -
Skaftafell Öræfi
Skaftafell is the Visitor’s Centre for the national park and serves as a base camp for ventures onto the glacier as well as hiking to Hvannadalshnjúkur, Iceland‘s highest peak (2110m). Located at the base of Vatnajökull, it is in a beautiful setting and has a good camping site. Excellent for information about hiking routes, services and activities in the area
Nature Attraction -
Arnarstapi Snæfellsbær
Arnarstapi, a beautiful area at the foot of the Snæfellsjökull glacier. It is a lively fishing harbour and also a popular tourist destination with a camping site, guest houses and restaurants. The great stone statue of Bárður Snæfellsás by the sculptor Ragnar Kjartansson, is an iconic feature of the area.
Nature Attraction -
Rauðisandur Patreksfjörður
Rauðisandur is a 10km long beach characterised by colourful beach sand. The colours can range from yellow, red and even black, depending on the brightness of the day. A coffee shop is open here during the summer. The Road 614 to Rauðisandur is a steep gravel road and a detour from the main route.
Nature Attraction -
Akranes West Iceland
Akranes was the first place to show signs of becoming an Icelandic fishing village when Bishop Brynjólfur from Skálholt started fishing in 1650 and sold fish products to Europe.
Town or Municipality -
Seyðisfjörður East Iceland
Seyðisfjörður can be seen as the artist capital of the East. This beautiful enclosed village is the host to the LungA Art Festival, Art in Light Festival and the Artist’s Residency. It is also the port for the Norræna Ferry to Denmark and the Faroe Islands.
Town or Municipality -
Baugsstaðir Creamery Stokkseyri
Continuing on Road 305 along the Þjórsá River, is Baugsstaðir Creamery. Its 1904 original equipment is still in place despite its closure in 1952. This preserved creamery is open to the public during the summer.
Farm -
Þorgeirskirkja Húsavík
Þorgeirskirkja at Ljósavatn is a church built in commemoration of Iceland’s choice to become a Christian nation. The church was built in 2000, celebrating 1000 years of Christianity.
Church -
Gunnuhver Grindavík
Gunnuhver is an active geothermal area with bubbling mud pots and hissing steam vents. It is close to the Reykjanes lighthouse. Gunnuhver is named after a female ghost who died there. She was a constant disrupter of the peace until a priest set a trap for her and she fell into the boiling hotspring.
Nature Attraction