Iceland's Spectacular Ring Road with Arctic Coast Way extension

Day 1  Reykjavik      
Arrive into Iceland and pick up your car before driving to the enticing capital of Reykjavik. Spend the afternoon wandering the city, taking in the main sights including Hallgrimskirkja Church and mesmerising Harpa Concert Hall.                
Day 2  Reykjavik to Golden Circle      
Head inland to the Golden Circle, home to an abundance of geological wonders. For a true Icelandic experience, take a short walk to Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River for a dip in the warm waters.    

Day 3  Golden Circle            
Spend a full day exploring the Golden Circle at leisure. At Thingvellir National Park see where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly pulling apart. Later, witness erupting geysers and steaming vents at the Geysir Geothermal Area, before peering over thundering Gullfoss falls.                

Day 4  Golden Circle to Hnappavellir        
Today a stunning scenic drive awaits. Admire the vertical cliffs that rise up beside the road and stop off at the many dramatic waterfalls that Iceland is known for including Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss. In the village of Vik pause for a stroll along the stark volcanic Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. Continue your drive to Hnappavellir.                  

Day 5  Hnappavellir              
This unique region is dominated by Vatnajokull, Europe’s largest glacier. Make your way to Skaftafell to join your guided hike across the impressive Falljokull Glacier. Equipped with crampons and ice axes, climb through deep crevasses, pass under spectacular ice arches, and discover more about this region’s unique geology.              

Day 6  Hnappavellir to Eastfjords                
Continue along the Ring Road to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, where huge chunks of ice break away from the glacier and float across the lagoon before resting on the black sand, creating the unique Diamond Beach.

Day 7  Eastfjords to Husavik      
Depart the Eastfjords and make your way north along the Ring Road before turning off into the Diamond Circle. First stop is Detifoss, the second most powerful waterfall in Europe before continuing north to the impressive Asbyrgi Canyon. Hike along the canyon rim or take a gentle stroll through the lower foliage to view the bright emerald lake at the base of the cliffs.            

Day 8  Husavik to Akureyri      
Brought to fame by the blockbuster film about the Eurovision Song Contest, Husavik is one of the oldest settlements in Iceland and features a magnificent wooden church from 1907.          

Day 9  Akureyri          
This morning you’ll join your included whale watching adventure, seeking out the giants of the sea. Later, perhaps pay a visit to the Arctic Museum before enjoying a delicious dinner at one of the town’s selection of chic restaurants.    

Day 10  Akureyri to Siglufjordur      
Follow the coast along the fjord, soaking up the breathtaking views to reach the peaceful waterside town of Siglufjordur. This laid back fishing settlement is Iceland’s northernmost town and also one of its most beautiful.          

Day 11  Siglufjordur to Reykholt        
Check out of your peaceful waterfront retreat and make your way back to the Ring Road towards your next stop, Reykholt.

Day 12  Reykholt      
Today, perhaps head underground and learn more about the volcanic activity that formed this incredible country with a tour through the lava tubes at Vidgelmir cave. Nearby you will find the beautiful waterfalls Barnafoss and Hraunfossar or further afield, visit Mount Kirkjufell on the Snaefellsnes peninsula.        

Day 13  Reykholt to Reykjavik      
Complete your circumnavigation of Iceland with a final scenic drive back to Reykjavik. Spend this afternoon at leisure, perhaps enjoy a cruise in search of puffins.    

Day 14  Reykjavik      
After an action packed adventure, unwind in the iconic Blue Lagoon before dropping off your car at the airport and taking your flight home.