A Big Short Break in Iceland: From the Golden Circle to Reykjavik

Spend two days discovering the endless scenic delights of Iceland’s south coast at your own pace. This region stands out for the big three sites that made the Golden Circle so famous: Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area and Gullfoss waterfall. Other iconic sites in the region include the world’s oldest existing parliament, which dates back to 930 AD; the dramatic Strokkur geyser, the nation’s most visited geyser; the colourful rolling mountains of the Torfajökull massif; the vast expanses of the Mýrdalsjökull ice cap; and the volcanic sites of the Keflavik peninsula. At some point over the next two days you’ll also have the opportunity to head into the heart of the highlands in a super jeep with an experienced driver-guide. Icelanders have made it their habit to modify jeeps to be able to withstand the tough glacial terrain of the Icelandic highlands. These enormous machines make it possible to experience some of the rugged interior’s most incredible landscapes, including extinct volcanic craters, other-worldly lava fields and, finally, the incredible natural hot springs of Landmannalaugar. We could also arrange for you to head out on a guided hike on the Sólheimajökull glacial tongue, a beautiful glacier falling from the wider Mýrdalsjökull glacier at a very slow pace.

Bid the south coast a warm farewell as you drive one hour back to the Icelandic capital. Before reaching the shores of Reykjavík, make a stop at Hveragerdi, a charming hamlet known and adored for its network of thermal springs, micro-geysers and steam vents. Those after a bit of adventure can embark on a hike from the village to ‘steam valley’, where it’s possible to bathe in a thermal river winding through the countryside. There’s nothing like an adventure in the countryside to whet your appetite, so from here, continue on to the picturesque village of Eyrarbakki to enjoy a feast of seafood delights in a renowned local restaurant. Walk off your meal along one of the stunning black sand beaches on the Ölfusá river estuary. Make sure to keep an eye out for seals, who spend their days hunting for fish in the channel’s turbulent waters. This afternoon, continue on to the capital, drop off your hire car and check in for three nights in a stylish yet cosy guesthouse in the heart of the city. The rest of today is then yours to spend settling into the rhythm of city life. We recommend turning to your coveted destination-specific Dossier, which is full of our top picks for cafes, bars and restaurants in the area.