Embark on an unforgettable Iceland road trip along the Diamond Circle! Experience breathtaking waterfall views and rejuvenating hot springs. Discover stunning hiking trails amidst Iceland's natural beauty. This travel itinerary guarantees adventure and relaxation.
Day 1: Geothermal Power and Volcanic Craters at Námafjall and Hverir
My adventure began with a flight into Akureyri, the "Capital of the North." From there, it was a scenic drive east towards the Lake Mývatn area. The first stop was the otherworldly geothermal area of Námafjall. This place is a feast for the senses – visually striking with its vibrant colors, and olfactory assaulting with its strong sulfurous smells! Walking among the bubbling mud pools and hissing fumaroles felt like stepping onto another planet. The stark, contrasting colors of the soil are mesmerizing.
Just a short distance from Námafjall lies Hverir, another geothermal area. While similar, Hverir feels even more raw and untamed. Climbing the adjacent slopes offers panoramic views of the steaming landscape. This is a photographer's dream – just be mindful of the wind direction to avoid a sulfurous shower!
After immersing myself in the geothermal activity, I hiked up to the rim of the Hverfjall crater. This massive tephra cone formed during a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago. The hike to the top isn't too strenuous and the 360-degree views are spectacular. From up there, you can really appreciate the scale of the Lake Mývatn area and its diverse geological formations.
Day 2: Dettifoss, Selfoss, and Ásbyrgi Canyon
Day two was all about waterfalls and canyons. The first stop was the mighty Dettifoss, Europe's most powerful waterfall. The sheer force of the water cascading over the edge is awe-inspiring. The spray creates a constant mist, often resulting in rainbows dancing in the air. The roar is deafening, and you can feel the vibrations in your chest.
A short walk upstream from Dettifoss is Selfoss, a series of smaller, but equally beautiful waterfalls. The contrast between the raw power of Dettifoss and the elegance of Selfoss is striking. The horseshoe shape of Selfoss makes it particularly photogenic.
Next, I drove to Ásbyrgi Canyon, a horseshoe-shaped canyon surrounded by towering cliffs. Legend has it that Ásbyrgi was formed by Sleipnir, the eight-legged horse of the Norse god Odin, when he touched down on Earth. Whether you believe the legend or not, the canyon is a truly remarkable sight. I enjoyed a hike within the canyon, surrounded by lush vegetation and the imposing rock walls.
Day 3: Whale Watching in Húsavík and Geosea Geothermal Baths
No trip to the Diamond Circle is complete without a whale watching tour in Húsavík, the "Whale Capital of Iceland." I booked a tour and was fortunate enough to see humpback whales breaching the surface. It's an incredible experience to witness these gentle giants in their natural habitat. The knowledgeable guides provided fascinating insights into whale behavior and conservation efforts.
After a day on the water, I relaxed and rejuvenated at the Geosea Geothermal Baths in Húsavík. These unique baths are perched on a cliff overlooking Skjálfandi Bay. The naturally heated seawater is rich in minerals and is said to have therapeutic properties. Soaking in the warm water while enjoying panoramic views of the ocean and the Arctic Circle was the perfect way to end the day.
Diamond Circle Highlights
Here's a quick summary of the key attractions along the Diamond Circle route:
Attraction |
Description |
Activities |
|---|
Lake Mývatn |
A volcanic lake known for its diverse birdlife, pseudocraters, and geothermal activity. |
Birdwatching, hiking, exploring the pseudocraters, visiting the Mývatn Nature Baths. |
Námafjall & Hverir |
Geothermal areas with bubbling mud pools, steaming fumaroles, and colorful landscapes. |
Walking through the geothermal areas, taking photographs, experiencing the unique smells and sights. |
Dettifoss & Selfoss |
Powerful waterfalls showcasing the raw force and beauty of Icelandic nature. |
Viewing the waterfalls from different perspectives, hiking along the riverbanks, feeling the mist. |
Ásbyrgi Canyon |
A horseshoe-shaped canyon with towering cliffs and lush vegetation. |
Hiking within the canyon, exploring the different trails, admiring the unique geological formation. |
Húsavík |
A charming fishing town known as the "Whale Capital of Iceland." |
Whale watching tours, visiting the Whale Museum, exploring the town's harbor. |
Geosea Geothermal Baths |
Geothermal baths overlooking Skjálfandi Bay, offering stunning views and relaxing mineral-rich waters. |
Soaking in the baths, enjoying the panoramic views, relaxing and rejuvenating. |
Tips for Planning Your Diamond Circle Road Trip
Planning a road trip around the Diamond Circle requires some preparation. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your adventure:
Rent a car: A car is essential for exploring the Diamond Circle at your own pace. 4x4 is recommended, especially if you plan on driving on F-roads.
Book accommodations in advance: Accommodation options around Lake Mývatn and Húsavík can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
Pack for all types of weather: Iceland's weather can be unpredictable. Be sure to pack layers, including waterproof and windproof clothing.
Bring comfortable hiking shoes: There are plenty of opportunities for hiking along the Diamond Circle.
Download offline maps: Cell phone coverage can be spotty in some areas.
Respect nature: Stay on marked trails, avoid disturbing wildlife, and leave no trace behind.
Learn a few basic Icelandic phrases: While English is widely spoken, knowing a few Icelandic phrases can enhance your experience.
Consider visiting in the shoulder season: The shoulder seasons (spring and fall) offer fewer crowds and lower prices compared to the summer months.
Check road conditions: Before heading out each day, check the latest road conditions on the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration website.
My road trip around the Diamond Circle was an unforgettable experience. From the raw power of Dettifoss to the serene beauty of Lake Mývatn and the relaxing waters of Geosea, this region of Iceland offers something for everyone. If you're looking for an adventure that combines stunning landscapes, thrilling activities, and a healthy dose of relaxation, the Diamond Circle is the perfect destination.
