Self-drive tours

At this page we selected some popular self-drive tours for you. Let us help you find the perfect tour.

Fairy tale Denmark

A roadtrip of 5 days to see Denmark.

About

Enjoy the Danish countryside by visiting Odense, Aarhus, North Zealand and Copenhagen on this self-drive tour. Accommodation in 3/4 star centrally located hotels.
Itinerary

Day 1

ARRIVE COPENHAGEN

Arrive to your hotel in Copenhagen city centre on own. The capital is full of attractions, most of them located within walking distance in the city centre. We recommend a visit to the Tivoli Gardens (not open all year), the Amalienborg Palace, the Christiansborg Palace (Danish Parliament), the Gefion Fountain, the old harbour ‘Nyhavn’, the Little Mermaid, the Round Tower, the museum of Carlsberg or one of the many other museums of art, culture, history and design. Also remember time to enjoy the pedestrian shopping streets of Strøget and surroundings. Accommodation at 3 stars hotel in Copenhagen, centrally located.

Day 2

COPENHAGEN – ODENSE (168KM)

Breakfast at the hotel. Pick up rental car in the city centre. Departure from Copenhagen westward through farming countryside and small villages, some of which were founded by Vikings more than a thousand years ago. Upon arrival in Roskilde – until 1417, the capital of Denmark – we recommend a visit to the the twin-spired Roskilde Cathedral. The construction of the cathedral was commenced during the 12th century and additions have been made through the ages, in different architectural styles. The cathedral is the traditional burial place of Danish monarchs and contains more than 40 royal graves. Continue from Roskilde to Halskov from where you will drive over one of the world’s largest suspension bridges constructed off-shore and arrive on the island of Funen. Continue to Odense, Denmark’s third largest city and Hans Christian Andersen’s home town. We recommend a visit to the home he grew up in, the Hans Christian Andersen Home. The humble house, where H.C. Andersen was born in 1805, has been turned into a museum dedicated to the world famous fairy tale writer. Accommodation at 3 star+ class hotel in Odense, centrally located.

Day 3

ODENSE – AARHUS (142KM)

Breakfast at the hotel. Leave Odense and cross the Little Belt waterway to Jutland. On the way to Aarhus, we recommend a detour to the village of Jelling. During the 10C, at the height of the Viking period, Jelling was for some time the royal seat chosen by two Viking kings, Gorm the Old and his son Harald Bluetooth, who started the Danish Royal line. As evidence they left two large burial mounds and two rune stones, known as the Jelling Stones, which have given crucial information about early Danish history. Continue to Aarhus, the second largest city of Denmark and also known as the City of the Smile. We recommend a visit to the Old City (Den Gamle By), a fascination open-air collection of completely furnished old Danish town houses with workshops etc. Also possibility to visit the cathedral, the museum of Danish prehistory, Moesgaard or the drive past the Marselisborg Palace in Aarhus, the holiday residence of the Royal Family. When the Royal Family is not in residence there is free admission to the palace park for the public from morning to evening. Accommodation at 3 star+ class hotel in Aarhus, centrally located.

Day 4

AARHUS – NORTH ZEALAND – COPENHAGEN (141KM)

Breakfast at the hotel and departure by ferry from Aarhus to the tongue of land Sjællands Odde on Zealand. Passing through rural villages and wooded, undulating countryside to Hillerød where we recommend a visit to the Frederiksborg Castle, the beautifully situated Renaissance building which – like so many others – was built by orders of King Christian IV. Today, Frederiksborg is the home of the Museum of National History, the collection of which includes priceless paintings, silver and porcelain items, furniture and tapestries. The castle chapel houses Denmark’s oldest organ from 1610. If time permits, we recommend driving via Fredensborg for a photo stop at the Fredensborg Palace, the spring and autumn residence of the Royal Family, to Helsingør (Elsinore) and the Kronborg Castle, made famous by Shakespeare and the story of Hamlet. Afterwards route to Copenhagen. Along the way a possibility to visit world-famous museum of modern art, Louisiana, or Rungstedlund, situated on the shores of Øresund, 25 km north of Copenhagen, next to a tiny picturesque harbour full of colourful pleasure boats of all sizes. Rungstedlund was the beautiful family home of Denmark’s most famous female author, Karen Blixen, whose autobiographical book “Out of Africa” became known worldwide when a film was made of it in 1985. The house has been turned into a museum but a great part of it has been left as it was when she lived in it. Continue to Copenhagen and evening free for leisure. Accommodation at 3 star+ class hotel in Copenhagen, centrally located.

Day 5

COPENHAGEN DEPARTURE

Breakfast at the hotel. Check out and drop off rental car at local office. Departure from Copenhagen at own arrangement.
Route map
What is included
- 4 nights’ accommodation including breakfast in 3 or 4 starred centrally located hotels
- Bridge toll Great Belt Bridge
- Ferry crossing for car and passengers Aarhus – Sjællands Odde
- Car rental class, 4 days (96 hours) city/city Copenhagen
Choice between the following categories of transmission:
- Type VW Golf or similar, with manual transmission
- Type Honda Civic or similar, with automatic transmission
Availability
Contact us for the most up-to-date availability.

Daily departures possible.

Important notes:
- The minimum age to rent a vehicle is 25 years and drivers must have held a driving licence for at least 12 months prior to hiring the car.
- The price includes unlimited mileage, Collision Damage Waiver, Theft protection and tax.
- Petrol, GPS and other surcharges are not included. Payment by voucher, but the client must guarantee with own credit card when picking up the car.

Recommended by Brielle:
“Having lived in Denmark a car gives such great flexibility to see the real depth of this country.”

: Amalienborg

: House

Highlights of Finland

A roadtrip of 5 days to see Finland.

About

On this self-drive tour you will visit the southern part of Finland including Helsinki, Porvoo the city full of history, Turku the oldest town in Finland and Tuusula. Accommodation in 3/4 star hotels with daily breakfasts.
Itinerary

Day 1

ARRIVAL HELSINKI

Arrival to Helsinki-Vantaa airport and pick-up your rental car. Drive to Helsinki and get to know the city. We recommend a visit to some of the most important sights such as the Senate Square, the Uspenskij Cathedral, Parliament House, Finlandia Hall, the Sibelius Park & Monument and the Temppeliaukio church. Accommodation at 3 star+ class hotel in Helsinki, centrally located.

Day 2

HELSINKI – PORVOO (55 KM)

Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning free time to explore more of Helsinki. We recommend a visit to the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, included in Unesco’s World Heritage List. The fortress was established in 1748, and is just 15 minutes by ferry from Helsinki’s Market Square. Drive to Porvoo, the second oldest town of Finland. The driving route follows The King’s Road, which is one of the most significant travel routes in the Nordic countries, and follows an old postal route. The road has been used by kings and their couriers, bishops and townsmen, artists and armies ever since the 1300s. Mansions, farms, taverns, alehouses and inns that housed and accommodated travellers arose all along the King’s Road. Today the King’s Road is a network of fascinating travel services but some stretches of the original road are still in use. The total length of the road is 253 km. On the way to Porvoo, it is possible to visit Haikko Manor, the home of the famous painter Albert Edelfelt and the old church of Sipoo, built in the 15th century. Arrive at Porvoo and explore the Old Town by foot. Take a walk around the well-preserved wooden houses, visit the medieval church, and the Town Hall Square. Stay the night at a small, elegant boutique hotel in the heart of the picturesque Old Town of Porvoo. Accommodation at Pariisin Ville Hotel or similar.

Day 3

PORVOO –TURKU (215 KM)

Breakfast at the hotel. Depart from Porvoo, and drive to Turku, the oldest town of Finland and a former capital. Turku is located on the shores of the river Aura. The southwest of Finland offers ancient cultural traditions as this is where the recorded history of Finland begins and where the oldest traces of habitation have been found. The driving route to Turku goes along The King’s Road, with the possibility of some extra kilometres if you take the deviation to Hanko for a visit to Finland’s southernmost point, which is certainly worth doing. Arrive at Turku, famous for an active cultural scene and maritime atmosphere. We recommend visits to the Castle of Turku from the XIII century, the Luostarinmäki outdoor & crafts museum, and the Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova museum complex. We can also recommend a visit to the Ruissalo Island and the Botanical Gardens of the University of Turku. Accommodation at 3 star+ class hotel in Turku, centrally located.

Day 4

TURKU –NAANTALI – TUUSULA (200 KM)

Breakfast at the hotel and short drive to Naantali. Naantali could also be called Finland’s oficial summer holiday city because the Kultaranta Estate, the summer residence of the President of Finland, is located here. The Moomin World theme park makes Naantali a top spot for children and families. Walk in the Old town of Naantali, see the medieval church and visit the gardens with 3.500 roses at the Kultaranta Estate. In the late afternoon drive to Tuusula which is located at a convenient distance to the Helsinki-Vantaa airport for next day’s departure flight. Arrival to the Krapi Estate, which is located amid a prestigious cultural environment in Tuusula and offers a hotel, restaurants, a chimneyless sauna and a large park area with a wide variety of activities. Krapi is located right at the beginning of the first Finnish Museum Road (Tuusula Rantatie). Homes of many famous artists of the turn of the century, who were actively involved in the forming of the Finnish national identity, can be found along this road. Accommodation at Krapi Hotel or similar.

Day 5

TUUSULA – HELSINKI – VANTAA AIRPORT DEPARTURE (15 KM)

Breakfast at the hotel. Possibility to enjoy the peace of the Krapi area. If time permits before your flight departure, it is possible to visit some of the interesting cultural sights and museums along the Tuusulan Rantatie. Drive to Helsinki – Vantaa airport and return the car.
Route map
What is included
- 4 nights’ accommodation including breakfast in 3 or 4 starred centrally located hotels
- Car rental class, 4 days (96 hours) city/city Copenhagen
Choice between the following categories of transmission:
- Cat C, type VW Golf or similar, with manual transmission
- Cat I, type Honda Civic or similar, with automatic transmission
Availability
Contact us for the most up-to-date availability.

Daily departures possible.

Important notes:
- The minimum age to rent a vehicle is 25 years and drivers must have held a driving licence for at least 12 months prior to hiring the car.
- The price includes unlimited mileage, Collision Damage Waiver, Theft protection and tax.
- Petrol, GPS and other surcharges are not included. Payment by voucher, but the client must guarantee with own credit card when picking up the car.

Recommended by Poul:
“Once you leave Helsinki, driving is a pleasure.”

: park

: park

: Village finland

South of Sweden by car

A roadtrip of 6 days to see Sweden.

About

This self-drive tour will take you through some beautiful scenery of southern Sweden including Gothenburg, Malmo, Kalmar and Stockholm staying in centrally located hotels including daily breakfasts.
Itinerary

Day 1

ARRIVE STOCKHOLM

Arrival Stockholm Arlanda Airport and pick up rental car. Drive to your hotel in the city centre. We can recommend a canal cruise or a visit to the Vasa Museum. The impressive warship Vasa sank on her maiden voyage in 1628 but was salvaged 333 years later in 1961. She has since been restored and can now be seen with her complete rigging at the Vasa Museum. Remember also to visit the famous old town, Gamla Stan, or one of the many museums. Accommodation at 3 star+ class hotel in Stockholm, centrally located.

Day 2

STOCKHOLM – JÖNKÖPING (325 km)

Breakfast at the hotel. Leave Stockholm through the pleasant countryside of Southern Sweden towards the city of Jönköping, beautifully situated at the southern end of Lake Vättern. If time permits we recommend a cruise on the lake. Accommodation at 3 star+ class hotel in Jönköping, centrally located.

Day 3

JÖNKÖPING – GOTHENBURG (146 km)

Breakfast at the hotel and continue to Gothenburg, the second largest city of Sweden. Gothenburg offers a variety of attractions: the greatest amusement park in Scandinavia, Liseberg, a boat cruise to the 17th century New Älvsborg Fortress, the floating maritime experience centre Maritiman with an armada of 19 museum vessels and an opportunity to see and learn about U-boats, destroyers, mine-layers and fireboats, Universeum, where you can experience the Ocean, the Rain Forest and Space all in one day as well as museums, cafes, shopping etc. Accommodation at 3 star+ class hotel in Gothenburg, centrally located.

Day 4

GOTHENBORG – MALMÖ (270 km)

Breakfast at the hotel. Before leaving Gothenburg, we recommend a visit to the Gunnebo House, one of Sweden’s most beautiful neoclassical estates beautifully situated between two lakes, Rådasjön and Stensjön, in the Municipality of Mölndal, just south of Gothenburg. Continue south along the West Swedish coast line. If time permits, make a detour to ancient university city of Lund, about 1000 years old and one of the oldest cities in Sweden. The University was founded in 1658 and has become a leading university in Sweden and Scandinavia. Also possibility to cross the bridge to Copenhagen, capital of Denmark, located just on the other side of the narrow Øresund Belt. Arrival in Malmö, a charming city where we recommend a visit to Malmöhus Castle which has been housing museum collections since 1926. In 1434 king Erik VII of Denmark had the castle of Myntergaarden built where the Malmöhus Castle stands today. Also remember time to enjoy the atmosphere of this historic city. Accommodation at 3 star+ class hotel in Malmö, centrally located.

Day 5

MALMÖ – KALMAR (285 km)

Breakfast at the hotel. Continue by road to Kristianstad, a former fortress town founded by the Danish King Christian IV in 1614. Drive along the coast to Karlshamn, known for its well preserved historical buildings. Karlshamn played an important role in the Swedish emigration to America as a large number of people left Sweden from here. By the harbour you can see a copy of Axel Olssons statue which depicts the key charaters of Vilhelm Moberg´s famous novels, Karl-Oskar and Kristina, looking out over the sea before starting their adventure. Just west of Växjö you will reach the “Kingdom of Crystal” where you can visit one or two of the famous glass factories. Experience the art of glassblowing and search for bargains in the glass shops! Continue to Kalmar, famous for its castle which was for long the guardian of Sweden´s southern frontier. Accommodation at 3 star+ class hotel in Kalmar, centrally located.

Day 6

KALMAR – STOCKHOLM (409 km)

Breakfast at the hotel. Kalmar was once one of the most important towns in the North and we recommend spending some time here before continuing back to Stockholm. The historical past is an integral part of the character of the city. Kalmar Castle, the Old Town and Kvarnholmen tell the tale of mighty kings and queens as well as commoners. Traces of the past are found in architecture, cultural artifacts and art as well as in the well-worn cobblestones that pave the streets. Return to Stockholm along the Eastern coast line via Västervik, Norrköping and Södertalje. Accommodation at 3 star+ class hotel in Stockholm, centrally located.

Day 7

STOCKHOLM DEPARTURE

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Stockholm Airport Arlanda airport to drop off rental car.
Route map
What is included
- 6 nights’ accommodation including breakfast at 4 stars centrally located hotels
- Car rental, 7 days (168 hours) airport/airport Stockholm
Please choose between the following categories of transmission
- Cat C, type VW Golf or similar, with manual transmission.
- Cat O, type Toyota Avensis or similar, with automatic transmission.
Availability
Contact us for the most up-to-date availability.

Daily departures possible.

Important notes:
- The minimum age to rent a vehicle is 25 years and drivers must have held a driving licence for at least 12 months prior to hiring the car.
- The price includes unlimited mileage, Collision Damage Waiver, Theft protection and tax.
- Petrol, GPS and other surcharges are not included. Payment by voucher, but the client must guarantee with own credit card when picking up the car.

Recommended by Trevor:
“Driving in Southern Sweden is ideal for car travel. Don’t think you have to return to Stockholm, there are other options.”

The best of Faroe Islands

The Faroe Islands were honored by National Geographic as the worlds’ best archipelago for unspoiled authenticity, a strong cultural integrity, a green lowland, and well protected nature.

About

This self-drive tour is available from May 15th until September 1st. Read more about these beautiful islands by clicking on the tab ‘Itinerary’ below.
Itinerary

SUNDAY: Arrival to the Faroe Islands. Visit the villages Bøur and Gásadalur.
Arrival with Atlantic Airways. Pick up rental car at the airport.

Take the short drive to the villages of Bøur and Gásadalur, which was the last village connected to the rest of the islands by tunnel. Enjoy the quiet and breathtaking view of Tindhólm.

Spend the night on Vágar.

MONDAY: Day on your own, but we suggest to purchase the day trip to the bird island Mykines:

The tour starts with a grand sail by majestic sea cliffs. Spot puffins, that charming little bird with a colourful beak, or the impressive gannet, which can only breed on the isolated isle to the west of the main island. To get out to the isle and its lighthouse, one must cross a bridge – a bridge that crosses the Atlantic Ocean. Bag lunch en route. Back in the village, one can pop in at the local cafe. Spend the night on Vágar.

TUESDAY: The island of Suðuroy. Walks and impressive vantage points.
From Tórshavn sail with the ferry Smyril to the island of Suðuroy. There are many great walking/hiking paths in Suðuroy for example the top of Rávan and the award winning Hvannhagi.

Visit the local tourist office in the village of Tvøroyri for more information about hiking. We highly recommend the beautiful hike to Hvannhagi, and the short walk Á Røðina to experience the dramatic west side of the island.

In the town of Tvøroyri, have a look at some of the old historic buildings used by the Danish Royal Company Store, and enjoy a coffee in one of the cozy cafes.

Spend the night on Suðuroy.

WEDNESDAY: Sightseeing with local guide on Suðuroy and storytelling.
Pick up at your overnight accommodations by a local driver/guide who will show you around this peculiar island, which has a rich history and unforgettable view points.

The sightseeing tour is determined by wind and weather. Lunch en route.

Spend the night on Suðuroy.

THURSDAY: Cosy Tórshavn and excellent food.
Return to Tórshavn with the ferry.

On your own go for a walk in Tórshavn through the old part of town, Reyn and Tinganes. You will find yourself in a confusion of lanes and narrow passages, steps and rocks and tiny black-tarred houses with white windows and green turfed roofs. This area is unique not only in the Faroes but in the world.

In Tórshavn you will find various restaurants and cafés where you can enjoy excellent food.

Spend the night in Tórshavn.

FRIDAY: Island of Nólsoy. Guided walk and see among other things Ove’s boat.
By ferry from Tórshavn to the neighboring island Nósloy. Here life moves at a slow pace.

At the tourist office you will meet the guide who will take you on a tour of the village. Visit Brunn, a house built of driftwood from the 1600 century and the unique attraction that can only be had on Nólsoy, Rowing Ove’s boat, Diana Victoria. In 1986 Ove rowed alone from the Faroe Islands to the Little Mermaid in Copenhagen. Lunch is served.

On your own, you can hike to the top of the island where you have the most beautiful panoramic views of Tórshavn and the nearby islands.

Return by ferry to Tórshavn. In the afternoon, we suggest a visit to the village of Kirkjubøur, which is the Faroe Islands’ cultural centre.

Spend the night in Tórshavn.

SATURDAY: Boat trip to Vestmanna Cliffs and the village of Viðareiði.
From the village of Vestmanna the boat trip starts to the fantastic Vestmanna Cliffs. You sail into grottos, through narrow sounds, and close to the almost 1500 feet high vertical cliffs.

Afterwards drive towards the northern islands, which offer dramatic landscapes. From the village of Leirvík you drive through the sub-sea tunnel to the town of Klaksvík. The tunnel is decorated with lights by the well-known Faroese artist Tróndur Patursson.

On the island of Viðoy is the islands’ most northerly village, Viðareiði, which is worth a visit. Enjoy a cup of coffee or a slice of bread at the local restaurant.

Spend the night in the Northern Islands.

SUNDAY: Island of Kalsoy – Seal Woman.
With ferry from Klaksvík to the island of Kalsoy, popularly called the Recorder, which comes because of the 12-kilometer long road that winds through four tunnels and connects the islands four villages.

Make a stop at the village of Mikladalur, which is known, for its artists and sagas. By the ocean, you can see the beautiful sculpture of the Seal Woman, and this is definitely worth a visit.

Also visit the village of Trøllanes far to the north. From Trøllanes it is possible to walk to the lighthouse Kallin, which is beautifully situated (the walk can be done with a local guide, but must be booked in advance). Remember to bring a bite to eat and something to drink.

Spend the night in the Northern Islands.

MONDAY: Visit the village of Gjógv and enjoy the view from Crown Princess Mary´s Bench.
Enjoy the day in scenic village of Gjógv, which is known for its unique natural harbour and a beautiful view of the island of Kalsoy. The natural harbour is an attraction everyone should take time to see.

If you walk along the edge of the crevice, you might see some puffins coming out of their nests on their way out to the ocean to get food for their young. At the end of the crevice, facing the open ocean, it is possible to enjoy the view from Crown Princess Mary’s Bench.

From Gjógv you can hike up the mountain to the beautiful valley Ambadalur, en route you see bird cliffs and enjoy scenic views. More information about the hike is available at the guesthouse in the village.

Spend the night on Eysturoy.

TUESDAY: Discover the fjord, Skálafjørðin and the nearby villages.
Visit some of the adjacent villages, for example Oyndarfjørður to see the Rocking Stones, which according to legend are two enchanted pirate ships that lie rocking calmly.

Continue to the village of Runavík and visit the local tourist office for information and visiting hours for the charming Vicarage in the village of Nes.

The yarn store Navia is located in the village of Toftir and has a large selection of Faroese sweater, yarn, wool, etc.

In the village of Søldafjørður its possible to meet the Faroese in a private home and to have coffee/cake or lunch/dinner. (Meet the Faroese is not included and must be booked in advance).

Spend the night in Eysturoy.

WEDNESDAY: Scenic road from Gjógv to Eiði. Departure from the Faroe Islands.
North of the village of Eiði the rock formations, the Giant and the Witch can be seen. According to legend, they are a couple who, in attempting to move the islands to Iceland, were turned to stone.

En route, you pass by the highest mountain, Slættartindur at 882 meters.

Return rental car at the airport. Departure with Atlantic Airways.
What is included
- Car rental, category A with airport pick up / drop off, free mileage and CDW.
- 10 nights with breakfast.
- Tuesday: Ferry from Tórshavn to Suðuroy.
- Wednesday: Sightseeing incl. driver guide/ lunch.
- Thursday: Ferry from Suðuroy to Tórshavn.
- Friday: Nólsoy incl. return ferry/guide/bag lunch.
- Saturday: Boat trip to the Vestmanna Cliffs.
- Sunday: Return ferry to the the island of Kalsoy.
Availability
Contact us for the most up-to-date availability.

Important notes:
- The minimum age to rent a vehicle is 25 years and drivers must have held a driving licence for at least 12 months prior to hiring the car.
- The price includes unlimited mileage, Collision Damage Waiver, Theft protection and tax.
- Petrol, GPS and other surcharges are not included. Payment by voucher, but the client must guarantee with own credit card when picking up the car.

: Iceland nature

: puffins

: Cliff

Driving through Iceland

Drive on the Ring Road, discovering Iceland’s epic landscapes on this exceptional-value road trip.

About

This exceptional-value road trip allows you to travel completely around Iceland in 9 days, taking in the very best of Iceland’s Ring Road with the option of closing your tour by exploring the famous and geologically-diverse Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Throughout this tour you will discover Iceland’s epic landscapes and the completely unique scenery for which this island is renowned. In short: expect to have some fantastic photo opportunities on this trip!
Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival

Approximate distance: ca100km / 62miles

Geothermal Lagoon – Flower Village – Geothermal Greenhouses

Pick up the car at the airport and start your Iceland experience.

From Keflavik International Airport, we recommend driving the southern coast of the Reykjanes peninsula, a colourful area filled with interesting geological sites and perfect for photo opportunities. This route takes you along dramatic coastlines and towards your first overnight stay in the charming village of Hveragerdi.   This village is one of the few sites in the world located directly on top of a geothermal area and, because of its many greenhouses heated by hot water from nearby springs, it is often called the “flower village.”

If your flight arrives early in the day, you might stop at the Blue Lagoon (a short distance from the airport) for a chance to relax in the soothing geothermal mineral waters.

Important: Please note that admission to the Blue Lagoon must be booked in advance.

Overnight stay in Hveragerdi.

Day 2: Thingvellir – Gullfoss – Geysir – Hella – Vik

Approximate distance: ca315km / 196miles

National Park with Geological Wonders (UNESCO) – Exploding Geysers – Massive Waterfalls – Black Sand Beach

Today is full of photo opportunities with the chance to enjoy both the Golden Circle and the South Shore! Visit Thingvellir National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site), a place of great geological and historical interest. Then take in the spectacular Gullfoss waterfall and Geysir hot-spring area. Head along the rich farmlands of south coast, passing by famous volcanoes such as Eyjafjallajokull and Hekla.   Visit Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, each with its own unique character.

Overnight in the Vik area.

Day 3: Vik – Kirkjubaejarklaustur- Vik (Katla Geopark area)

Approximate distance: ca205km / 127miles

Thundering Waterfalls – Puffin Colony – Black Sand Beaches – Vast Lava Fields- Volcanic GeoPark

Today you will be in the Katla UNESCO Global Geopark area, a wonderland of active volcanoes, black sand beaches, glittering glaciers and moss-covered lava flows. This area is a treat to photograph, and you’ll enjoy the special chance to spend more time exploring these unusual landscapes.   Visit Dyrholaey* a rocky headland where thousands of puffins nest in the summer (puffins are in Iceland usually between mid-May and early August). Feel the power of thundering waves on black sand beaches. Discover the magnificent Fjadrargljufur, an oddly-shaped canyon formed during the Ice Age.   Kirkjubaejarklaustur village is the former site of a 12th-century Catholic convent. Nearby natural sites connected to convent history include Systrastapi (Sisters’ Rock) and Systrafoss (Sisters’ Waterfalls).

If you enjoy outdoor adventure, you might opt for snowmobiling on Myrdalsjokull Glacier, ATV biking on black sand beaches or taking an adventurous SuperJeep off-road trip in the wilderness near Katla Volcano.

*Please note that Dyrholaey is closed during nesting season in spring, from around mid-May until June 23rd.

Overnight in the Vik area

Day 4: Skaftafell – Jokulsarlon – Hofn

Approximate distance: ca295km / 183miles

Glacier-Ringed Oasis – Glacial Lagoon with Icebergs – Europe’s Largest Glacier

Today leave yourself plenty time to enjoy glacial vistas from all angles. You will be in the area of Vatnajokull National Park, named after Europe‘s largest glacier. Visit the park´s Skaftafell area, a green oasis nestled below the great Vatnajokull glacier. There are many excellent hiking trails here, including a trail that leads to the basalt-framed Svartifoss falls. Skaftafell is also an excellent place to take a guided glacier hike. Continue to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, where huge icebergs float and grind together in the still, deep waters of the lagoon. Today you might also opt to experience amazing photography opportunities of light and shadow, sea and black sand dunes at Vestrahorn, where a 454 meter (1489 foot) mountain overlooks the Atlantic Ocean.

Overnight in the Hofn area.

Day 5: Hofn – Djupivogur – Faskrudsfjordur – Egilsstadir

Approximate distance: ca270km / 168miles

Narrow Fjords – Steep Mountains – Picturesque Coastline – Intriguing Stone Collection

Drive along the rugged coastline of the East Fjords with their towering mountains and charming fishing villages, a perfect setting for photography.    The East Fjords have some of Iceland’s geologically oldest landscapes and amazing views of fjord and sea. Djupivogur, the gateway to the East Fjords, is ideal for hiking on the coast. As you travel, you might option of taking a boat tour to Papey Island where thousands of puffins nest in the summer (May – early August), or visiting Petra’s famous collection of local stones and minerals at Stodvarfjordur.   Faskrudsfjordur is a pretty town with an interesting historical connection to France and an ideal place to visit on your way to Egilsstadir, the region’s largest town.

Overnight in Egilsstadir area.

Day 6: Egilsstadir – Dettifoss- Husavik – Myvatn

Approximate distance: ca325km / 202miles

Highland Desert – Europe’s Most Powerful Waterfall – Glacier Carved Gorge – Whale Watching

Today you will get a taste of Iceland‘s highlands when you travel across Modrudalsoraefi. This vast area is renowned for stark, untouched beauty. Visit Dettifoss, Europe’s mightiest waterfall. Travel through the wilderness beauty of northern Vatnajokull National Park, visiting the magnificent horseshoe-shaped canyon Asbyrgi.   Drive around the ancient, fossil-rich Tjornes peninsula, where you can enjoy excellent views of the sea. Visit Husavik, a colourful fishing village known for its excellent whale watching excursions, before heading to the renowned Myvatn Nature reserve.

Overnight in Myvatn area.

Day 7: Myvatn- Akureyri- Saelingsdalur Valley

Approximate distance: ca385km / 139miles

Bizarre Lava Formations – Geothermal & Volcanic Activity – Rich Birdlife – Waterfall “Of the Gods”- The Capital of North Iceland

Explore the surreal, photogenic highlights of the Lake Myvatn area, including the mystical Dimmuborgir volcanic formations, the Skutustadir pseudo craters, and the colourful sulphurous Namaskard slopes. Drive to Godafoss waterfall en route to Akureyri, a charming town set in Eyjafjordur fjord. Continue over the Oxnadalur pass to the historical Skagafjordir region, renowned for horse breeding and medieval history. You might visit the old turf-roof manor at Glaumbaer, a great example of Icelandic architecture from the last few centuries. Continue your journey through the farmlands and scenic coastline on the way to Saelingsdalur valley, an area rich in Viking Saga history and legends of elves.

Overnight in Laugar in Saelingsdal area.

Day 8: Saelingsdalur Valley – Snaefellsnes Peninsula – Borgarnes – Reykjavik

Approximate distance: ca410km / 255miles

Coastal Villages – Sea Cliffs with Birdlife – Volcanic Crater – Picturesque Fjord

Circle around the legendary Snaefellsjokull peninsula, home to Snaefellsjokull National Park. Visit Stykkisholmur, a town overlooking a bay filled with thousands of islands. Here it is possible to take a boat tour in the bay. Pass by small fishing villages and Kirkjufjall, Iceland‘s most photographed mountain Don’t miss the striking columnar basalt rock formations teeming with birdlife at Arnarstapi. Make a stop at the rocky beach of Djupalonssandur. Crowning the peninsula is the mysterious Snaefellsjokull, a glacier capped volcano. Pass by Eldborg, a crater where you can hike to the top. Drive through the scenic Borgarfjordur region on your way to Reykjavik.

Overnight in Reykjavik.

Day 9: Departure

Approximate distance: ca52km / 32miles

Drive back to Keflavik International Airport and even stop at Blue Lagoon as it is on your way to the airport, if you did not have time to do it on you arrival day.
Route map
Availability
Contact us for the most up-to-date availability.

Daily departures possible.

Important notes:
- The minimum age to rent a vehicle is 25 years and drivers must have held a driving licence for at least 12 months prior to hiring the car.
- The price includes unlimited mileage, Collision Damage Waiver, Theft protection and tax.
- Petrol, GPS and other surcharges are not included. Payment by voucher, but the client must guarantee with own credit card when picking up the car.

Recommended by Nadine:
“A great itinerary. It is essential to prebook accommodation.”

: Iceland nature

: geisjer

: Church iceland

: Waterfall