One of the most stunning and diverse places on the planet is Iceland. The Nordic country is well known for its rugged landscapes, the Northern Lights, glacial rivers, and sweeping lava fields, but it is not until you experience it that you can truly appreciate it.
Although a relatively small country there are so many things to see that can’t be found anywhere on Earth many opt for campervan rental. This gives you a feeling of adventure and the freedom to explore. Whether you are approaching a region of hot springs or going for an off-road adventure, you will feel that it is you and the land.
To get your hands on a campervan man opt for campervanreykjavik.com as they are considered the premier company for camper rental Iceland. Once you have your campervan and are all set, where to go, what to see, and what to do?
As we’re in a camper, let’s look at the roads from that perspective.
1. Iceland Ring Road
The ring road, as you might expect, is a road that encircles the whole of Iceland. From here you can reach north, south, west, and east Iceland. This road is the way to reach the best tourist attractions and is driveable with a two-wheel drive.
As you can imagine seeing the country this way is one of the best road trips you can ever do. Many take a week at least to do the entire Iceland ring road as there is so much to savour. Along the way, you will have plenty of places to park for the night, which is just as well as it is illegal to park in undesignated areas.
To that end, it is a good idea to obey the rules of the Iceland road. Fines are huge often getting close to a $1000 a time. Talking of money, it is a good idea to check the official exchange rate to get the best bang for your buck!
The other aspect you need to be aware of is that Iceland often has weather fronts that come out of nowhere. To that end, listen to the weather reports and take action as needed and ensure that you have plenty of supplies.
2. Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is another famous route in Iceland that takes in the south. The road trip takes in some fantastic places in Iceland which are diverse and unique. The total distance is about 190 miles, and you will see:
- Geysir Hot Spring Area – This is an area packed with boiling mud pits and exploding geysers. The area is about 2-mile square, and the star of the show is the mighty Strokkur which spouts water over 100 feet in the air every few minutes. The geothermal field is believed to have become active about a 1000 years ago. It is spectacular and powerful and but research suggests that in the 19th century Strokkur would spout its blasts 170 feet into the air.
- Thingvellir National Park – This UNESCO protected national park is of significant historical importance as it was the site of the world’s first parliament founded by Viking settlers in the 10th century. This was probably due to the rock formations made for a natural amphitheatre making it perfect for public speaking. Logberg (Law Rock) a high rock wall is still there to this day. As well as its historical importance is also a geological wonder in that the tectonic plates near the north Atlantic ridge are being pulled apart at a rate of an inch a year forming a natural valley.
- Gullfoss Waterfall – In a country of several waterfalls having one that is considered the most beautiful in the country is high praise indeed. The waterfall is in two tiers cascading from the upper part of the Hvita river. The second tier feels 69 feet into a crevice, and on sunny days, you will be treated to rainbows forming at a fast rate.
3. Black Sand Beach
Head to the country’s south coast, and you will come to Reynisfjara a world-famous black-sand beach. This one is considered to be one of the best in the country and is located near to the fishing village of Vík í Mýrdal, 112 miles from the capital city of Reykjavík.
The beach which overlooks the Atlantic was voted as one of the best non-tropical beaches by National Geographic.
4. Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon which is a 30-minute drive from Keflavík International Airport in Reykjavík is a natural hot spa. It has become so popular that you need to book in advance to be able to visit and savour the warm milky waters.
Temperatures are a consistent 102°F, which makes it perfect for bathing and the nutrients in the water are well documented to have beneficial effects. These waters have been used by the rich and famous and who knows who you’ll meet on your road trip.