Iceland Express Fly-Drive

Arrive at Keflavik airport and collect the hire car. Drive to the famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa (optional) and relax in the mineral-rich waters before continuing to the Icelandic capital. Spend the evening exploring Reykjavík, perhaps take a drive to Perlan (The Pearl) and dine at the restaurant in this remarkable landmark building located on Öskjuhlíð hill which offers panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. (80km)

Drive through the farmlands of Borgarfjörður and north to Skagafjörður, one of Iceland’s most prosperous agricultural regions and an area famed for its horse breeding and a perfect area to go riding. The area is also deeply connected to Iceland’s Viking time history, you can find a special map showing you locations of importance from the Viking time. Stay one night in the farmland area. (B) (290km)

Before leaving Skagafjörður, why not stop at the swimming pool in Hofsós which offers a beautiful view to the island Drangey. Travel to Akureyri, Iceland’s second largest city known to many as ‘the capital of the north’. Discover museums, cafés and restaurants and visit Brynja – a parlour known across Iceland for serving the best ice cream in the country. Continue to Goðafoss waterfall and onwards to Húsavík - known as the capital of whale watching. If time allows, enjoy a whale watching excursion and visit the whale museum at the harbour before travelling to the Mývatn area for an overnight stay. (B) (265km)

Spend the day exploring the area around beautiful Lake Mývatn, home to many species of rare duck. Discover the volcanic rock formations at Dimmuborgir and Skútustaðir, hike to Leirhujukur crater and visit Hverarond geothermal area. Relax in the natural geothermal waters at the Mývatn Nature Batths and in the afternoon cross the highland path, stopping at the mountain cafe Fjalladyrd for homemade waffles. Continue to Egilsstaðir making time along the way to visit Europe’s most powerful waterfall, Dettifoss. (B) (165km)

Drive along the East Fjords through the fishing town of Höfn and onwards to the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, a must see attraction where visitors can sometimes witness large blocks of ice break off the glacier and float in the surrounding waters. (B) (385km)

Explore the rugged landscape, mountains and glaciers at Skaftafell National Park, a perfect base for those who wish to climb Iceland’s highest peak, Hvannadalshnjúkur. Discover a network of hiking trails, including the route to Svartifoss waterfall and to Skaftafellsjökull glacier before continuing along the south coast to Vik. (B) (140km)

Today discover some of the famous sights in the south west. Admire the incredible Gullfoss waterfall and explore the Geysir hot spring area home to Strokkur, Iceland’s most energetic hot spring, which spouts every few minutes. Continue to Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated on the tectonic plate boundaries of the mid Atlantic Ridge. The park is an important and remarkable site both historically and geologically. (B) (290km)

Return the car at the airport and fly back to the UK. (B) (50km)