How to Make the Most of Your Iceland Stopover: An Iceland Road Trip Along the South Coast
Iceland’s South Coast is packed with epic adventures for all travel styles–black sand, waterfalls, slot canyons, iceberg-sprinkled beaches, and so many more await! If you’re landing for a quick Iceland stopover, here’s an Iceland road trip itinerary that’s doable in 3-7 days, depending on how action packed you make it.
What’s an Iceland stopover? I’m so glad you asked! If you’re planning a trip to Europe, and you book your one-way or round-trip flights with IcelandAir, you can extend your Iceland layover for up to 7 days with no additional airfare fees. INSANE! As someone who’s had the opportunity to experience their stopover program, let me be the first (or millionth) person to tell you DO IT! Don’t question it, just full send it. It’s the real deal. Adventure awaits.
Driving on the Ring Road on Iceland’s South Coast
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FAQ
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HECK YES! The landscapes are otherworldly and the adventures aplenty. The Iceland stopover program was easily one of my favorite experiences of the year. Highly recommend.
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It can be anywhere from 1 to 7 days–totally up to you and what works with your travel schedule!
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Unfortunately, no, it doesn’t. The stopover program gets you to Iceland, but the rest is up to you.
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Great questions! But it’s too much to put in this little dropdown menu. I cover all the deets below!
I only had three days and two nights to make the most of my time in Iceland, so I full sent this entire Iceland South Coast itinerary in just that. It was an action-packed adventure, so if you have the time to spread it out, do it! If you only have three days, road tripping along the southern coast of Iceland with this itinerary is 100% doable. Speaking from experience :)
A random spot on the Ring Road that I thought was beautiful!
How to Get Around in Iceland
Iceland Car Rental
Renting a car is by far the easiest way to get around the entire island at your leisure. Definitely splurge for 4WD if you have the option, especially if you’re visiting in winter. Expedia has some awesome and super affordable options!
Iceland Camper Van Rental
Getting around by camper van is another very popular way to see this iconic country. Having your home with you gives you ultimate flexibility to travel, stay, and see this beautiful island however you’d like. That said, Iceland does have some very strict overnight camping rules. Free camping isn’t really a thing in Iceland. In fact, if you’re traveling in a camper van or a car with a rooftop tent, you MUST camp at an established campsite OR get the landowner's written permission to camp on their property. Those who park their campers or set up a tent outside of designated campgrounds are subjected to a steep fee.
Here’s everything to know about camping in Iceland!
Book an Iceland Day Tour!
If you only have a few short days and would rather have someone else do all the planning for you, a tour is the way to go! No need to worry about directions, renting a car, rules of the road, etc. All you have to do is choose your dream adventures, and there are tours that’ll take care of the rest. Here are two day tours that cover some of the adventures on this list!
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Full-Day Trip: Check out two of the destinations on this itinerary in a single day: Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, Diamond Beach, an option glacial lagoon boat cruise, and breaks at various locations in between! 14 hours, $160.12
Iceland: Full-Day South Coast, Black Beach & Waterfalls Tour: This day tour takes you to three if this itinerary’s stops, again in a single day! We’re really packing it in here, but you’ll get to see some of Iceland’s South Coast’s biggest attractions. 10 hours, $96.50
Iceland South Coast Road Trip
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
I decided to drive as far as I could straight out of the airport, and settled in for the night in Vik, but not before experiencing Reynisfjara, the black sand beach known for its coastal basalt columns, of course.
It was a SUPER windy day, as most days are in Iceland–it’s actually one of the least forested countries in Europe–so, as you can imagine, wind whips across this island like it’s nobody’s business. Toss on that windproof layer and enjoy! Not sure what clothes to bring? Scroll to the bottom for my complete packing list!
Getting There
From Vik, turn left onto Austurvegur/Route 1 and continue for 5 km before taking that first left onto Reynishverfisvegur. Continue down this road until it dead ends at Reynisfjara.
Diamond Beach
Diamond Beach
Truly a gem of Iceland’s South Coast, Diamond Beach got its name from the chunks of blue icebergs that break off from the nearby Breidamerkurjokull Glacier, escape the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, and wash ashore.
It was sunrise or bust for me, so I woke up bright and early from my Vik hostel and drove three hours in the dark to see the diamond-like chunks glow with crazy colors–an impressive scene against the volcanic black sand beach! If you can swing sunrise, I highly recommend it!
Getting There
Diamond Beach is about a 5-hour drive from Reykjavik, but it’s right off the Ring Road (Route 1), which makes it easy to find, especially with all the tour buses in the parking lot! Don’t let that deter you–it’s popular for a reason! If you’re driving east from Reykjavik, you’ll turn off the highway just after the bridge. On the left, you’ll see Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
This 330-feet-deep canyon was thought to have been formed during the last ice age (about 9,000 years ago)–its walls are an estimated 2 million years old! Can you believe it? The jagged walls and narrow viewpoints are straight up mesmerizing. It’s so green you could even see the lush green grass through a dusting of snow. If it looks familiar, you’re probably a Justin Bieber fan. Am I right? The Canyon takes up a big chunk of his music video to “I’ll Show You.”
Note: The road to Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon closes during the winter. Bring snowshoes and enjoy the hike!
Getting There
If you’re driving east along the Ring Road (Route 1) from Reykjavík, turn left at the sign pointing to Road No. 206, Holtsvegur.
After about 3 km (1.8 miles) on this gravel road, you’ll find the parking lot. Even though it’s unpaved, any type of car can drive this road in the summer, but in the winter, 4WD is recommended. It’s not a well-maintained road and parts may be snowy or icy.
Skogafoss
Skogafoss
One of Iceland’s biggest and most epic waterfalls, Skogafoss measures 25 meters (82’) wide and 60 meters (197’) high. WUT.
It’s a must-stop for any Iceland South Coast goer. Trust me. The sheer force of the falls is mesmerizing on its own. You can get soaked hundreds of feet back just from its spray. Majestic is an understatement.
Getting There
If you’re driving east on the Ring Road (Route 1), take a left onto Skógar about 2 hours outside of Reykjavik and another left onto Skógafoss/Skógarfoss. Keep left until you reach the falls, visible from the parking lot.
Seljalandsfoss
Seljalandsfoss
You can walk all the way around this epic and super iconic South Coast falls–how cool is that? It has a 60-meter drop (200’) and if you’re lucky, the sun will set right behind the falls, setting them aglow. Insanity.
Stop here before meandering your way next door to Gljúfrabúi.
Getting There
If you’re driving east on the Ring Road from Reykjavik, about 1:40 min out, take a left just after the onto route 249. Seljalandsfoss is the first falls on your right.
Gljúfrabúi
Gljúfrabúi
This may be one of my all time favorite stops of this entire itinerary. I love obscurity, even if it’s becoming more and more popular over the years, and this hidden waterfall was a freaking dream. There was something about parking at what looks like just a lot next to a cliff, then walking between a massive crack in the rocks to find an epic falls with open sky above and moss covering black lava walls. Breathtaking doesn’t cover it.
Getting There
If you’re driving east on the Ring Road from Reykjavik, about 1:40 min out, take a left just after the onto route 249. Seljalandsfoss is the first falls on your right and Gljúfrabúi is just a tad bit further, also on your right. It’s a bit obscure since it’s in a canyon. Park and walk the tiny trail in between the narrow walls and get ready for epicness.
Where to Stay in Iceland: Unique Stays
Reykjavik Domes
Glamping at its finest, the Reykjavik Domes have all the amenities of a luxe stay, but in a tent. How cool, right? You’ll find a garden, a terrace and a shared kitchen and hot tub to warm up after a long day in the great outdoors! Some units have private bathrooms and showers while others are shared, so read the fine print before you book! Oh, and all units have free toiletries. Nice.
Did I mention the rustic decor and the massive window?
Puffin Nest Capsule Hostel
Ever wanted to stay in your own little pod? This hostel specializes in privacy but at a discounted rate–yay hostels!! It’s super futuristic, looking like you’re about to climb into your sleeping pod in outer space. Inside each capsule is a TV, lock box, smoke detector, fire extinguisher, headphones, air conditioner, Wifi and more. Pretty dang cool, right?
One of the many epic sights you’ll see along the Ring Road on Iceland’s South Coast!
ION Adventure Hotel
A sweet location and massive windows bringing Iceland’s stunning landscapes in are what make the ION Adventure Hotel a unique stay. Overlooking Lake Thingvallavatn, this escape set amongst lava fields has a spa and an award winning bar. Check in and relax, you’re on island time.
Buubble: The 5 Million Star Hotel
I’m dying to stay here–you’re literally sleeping in an inflatable, clear bubble. A few things to note: In the summer, the sun never really sets, and that whole thing is a window. In the winter, I’ve heard of the Buubble canceling guests last-minute from too much snow the night before. So, if you do decide to stay here, manage expectations, and know you’re in for a wild treat! Let me know how it goes!
Check rates for the Buubble here.
Glass Cottages
A bucket list unique stay for sure (because adventurers, this place is NOT cheap), the glass cottage is a dreamy nearly all-glass tiny home in the middle of Iceland’s rugged South Coast landscape. It’s surrounded by 500 hectares of lava fields for you to enjoy a relatively unpolluted night sky viewing experience from the comfort of your own little cozy cottage. Ideal.
Leave No Trace
Always remember to leave no trace–pack out what you pack in, leave what you find, prepare for every adventure, and respect the outdoors and each other every step of the way. Learn more about how to leave no trace here.
And if you do decide to venture out, drop a comment below or shoot me an email to tell me how it went!
Happy adventuring!
What to Pack for Iceland
Winter
Head
Beanie: I’m in love with my Columbia one right now!
Chapstick
Body
Moisture-wicking base layer (ideally merino wool, polyester, or similar). I love my yellow half-zip from Stio!
Sweaters. Bring some cute, cozy sweaters to lounge around in. Or better yet, wait and purchase one there. Icelandic wool is incredible, and an awesome (and useful) souvenir!
Fleece: This is great for around the city, when you’re cozying up at night, or as a mid-layer to stay extra warm when adventuring! I’m a big fan of Patagonia’s full-zip Synchilla jacket.
Puffer Jacket: For those extra cold days, you’ll want something that’s super warm, packs down small, and is cute too! Stio’s Pinion Down Pullover is weather resistant with 800-fill HyperDRY down, so you’ll stay super warm and dry on the days you only need two layers! If it’s extra windy, wear it as a mid-layer under a shell for added protection.
Outer Shell: Iceland’s weather can be windy and unpredictable. Definitely bring a lightweight, waterproof shell for ultimate protection against exposure. There aren’t many trees to protect you out there! I wear REI’s Xero-Dry Gtx Jacket on the reg!
Legs
Leggings. We love a good pair of comfy, cozy, moisture-wicking leggings. I’ve been wearing Arc’teryx’s Essent High-Rise Leggings–they have pockets too!
Hiking pants. A good pair of wind-resistant, stretchy, hiking pants are essential for a trip to Iceland! You want to stay warm, dry, and flexible out their in that rugged terrain. I love my Stio Pinedale Pants–I’m curvier (big booty, smaller waist) and always have the toughest time finding pants, but these with their built-in waist belt fit me great!
Jeans. Jeans is always a good idea! For those less active days, layer these with leggings underneath. Again, cuz I’m curvier, I only buy the curvy jeans from Everlane these days! Big fan.
Feet
Hiking socks. A solid pair of socks is vital! Highly recommend merino wool for their moisture-wicking (and odor resistant) capabilities. They’re also warm and cozy too! Check these out.
Hiking boots. I don’t go anywhere without my Danner Mountain 600s. Super comfy, lightweight, water-resistant, and with zero break-in time, these are my go-to’s for every adventure.
A pair of casual every boots. I don’t like to live in my hiking boots while traveling, so I always bring Blundstones along for the less intense days! Waterproof, light, and grippy, these are my other go-to adventure shoes.
Slip-on shoes. If you’re planning to do any hot springing while in Iceland (although it’s not on this list) a pair of slip-on shoes is always a good idea! Rubber Birkenstocks are the move!
