Classic Highlights with theHighlands
From the Golden Circle and the southern Highlands to the glaciers of the South Coast.
The journey
Iceland's most iconic routes, at your own pace
Explore Iceland's south and southwest on a self-drive journey that combines well-known sightseeing areas with opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities. The route takes you from the geothermal areas and open highlands to the waterfalls, black-sand beaches and glacier landscapes of the south coast. After reaching Southeast Iceland, you return west along the coast, with time to discover lesser-visited places along the way.
The route
Where you'll go
What makes this journey
Things you'll remember
Visit Thingvellir National Park, Strokkur geyser and Gullfoss waterfall
Hike among the colourful rhyolite mountains and hot springs of Landmannalaugar
See Haifoss waterfall in the Thjorsa valley
Explore the hiking trails and birch forests of Thorsmork
Discover Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls and Reynisfjara black-sand beach
Visit Skaftafell nature reserve, Svartifoss waterfall and Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon
Explore Reykjavik and the geothermal areas of the Reykjanes Peninsula
Day by day
The itinerary in detail
The Golden Circle is Iceland's most popular sightseeing route. The three pillars of this region are Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area and the Gullfoss waterfall. Thingvellir, a historically significant site, is located in the rift valley between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. The Strokkur geyser, which erupts 30 meters up into the air every 8-10 minutes, is the highlight of the Geysir geothermal area. Gullfoss, the golden falls, is one of Iceland's most impressive waterfalls. Apart from the most famous sights, there are several options for activities and lesser-visited gems including the Kerid crater lake and the hot springs town of Hveragerdi.
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