Wonders of the South West | 9-day Self Drive in Iceland

Wonders of the South West

from £1349 excluding flights

7 nights
Year round

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Highlights

iceland birdlife rock ptarmigan thorsmork istk

Discover the legendary Thorsmork valley

iceland snaefellsnes arnarstapi rock stacks rth

Explore Snaefellsnes Peninsula’s stunning coast and volcanoes

See the black-sand beaches and waterfalls on the South Coast

See the natural treasures of Iceland’s iconic Golden Circle route

Marvel at spectacular Hraunfossar waterfall

iceland south west blue lagoon summer sweeping view bl

Explore the Reykjanes Peninsula visiting the Blue Lagoon

Why this trip...

norway malangen deluxe cabin view from deck

Stay in great locations

This holiday features accommodation in incredible locations

Explore at leisure

With the route, transport and accommodation sorted, each day offers the freedom to explore

Well-researched route

We've put our years of experience into creating this well-paced itinerary that includes the places we know you'll enjoy

Overview

Showcasing the spectacular sights of of Iceland’s south west, this independent self drive offers a touch of class based at two of our favourite rural properties – Hotel Ranga and Hotel Husafell. Long days exploring an array of natural wonders including volcanoes, waterfalls and glaciers are topped off with fine dining and stylish relaxation.

Location, location, location

Surrounded by wide-open plains near Hella, ranch-style Ranga is well placed for visiting keys sites in south Iceland including Thorsmork valley, black sands beaches and the beautiful waterfalls Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss. The hotel blends quirky decor and a laid-back charm with high levels of service. Relax in the outdoor hot tubs and enjoy a first-class dining experience, some of the finest dining in the country.

Further north and set amidst the mountains of Borgarfjordur, Husafell is a stylishly modern hotel boasting 100% pure energy and sophisticated dining. Offering convenient access to nearby Langjokull glacier and the striking glacial falls Hraunfossar, the hotel also provides a good base for exploring the majestic Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

Conclude your adventure with a stay at the Northern Light Inn on the Reykjanes Peninsula, just a short distance from the Blue Lagoon as well as being conveniently located near to the airport.

Itinerary

Fly to Keflavik International Airport and collect your rental car then drive to Hotel Ranga in the heart of the Icelandic countryside for a three night stay.

Hotel Ranga, near Hella

hotel ranga restaurant exterior rowellphotography

hotel ranga bedroom with hot tub access rth

Around an hour's drive from Reykjavik, this cosy riverside lodge offers four-star comfort and fine dining in the volcanic heart of rural Iceland.

Make a stop at the iconic Seljalandsfoss and the magical Gljufrafoss waterfalls then continue to the famous Skogafoss, these are all must visits and amongst the finest of Iceland’s many waterfalls. Continue towards the beautiful small village of Vik, stopping on the way by Reynisfjara black sand beach and Dyrholaey bird cliffs and rock formations. After an adventurous day return to Hotel Ranga and a relax in the hot tub.

south iceland vik church and reynisdrangar sea stacks sunny day istk

iceland south west seljalandsfoss summer rth

Take an optional superjeep tour into Thorsmork, a valley named after Thor the Norse god of thunder. The guide with take on a thrilling journey through the valley crossing glacial rivers and visiting waterfalls as well as onto Eyjafjallajokull, the glacier atop a volcano which infamously erupted back in 2010. After an exciting day return to Ranga for another cosy evening.

iceland superjeep adventure on south coast gt

After breakfast check out of Hotel Ranga and head towards the famous Golden Circle route. Begin by visiting Gullfoss, a two-tiered waterfall often framed by a rainbow on sunny days. Continue to Geysir hot spring area and witness Strokkur erupting 30 ft into the air. Finally head to Thingvellir National Park, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet. It is also the site of the world’s oldest parliament – Althingi, which was formed by the vikings in AD 874. Continue to Husafell valley in West Iceland where you’ll spend the next three nights at Hotel Husafell.

Continue to Husafell valley in West Iceland where you’ll spend the next three nights at Hotel Husafell.

Hotel Husafell

A stunning property full of contemporary flair, Hotel Husafell nestles in the magnificent landscape of Borgarfjordur, about 90 minutes’ drive northeast of Reykjavik.

Explore the nearby area and visit striking Hraunfossar waterfall, where the stream of water flows deep in the lava field until emerging through the river bank in a broad cascade. Continue to Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring, providing 180 litres per second of boiling water. Explore the vast Hallmundarhraun lava field and take part an optional excursion to visit Vidgelmir lava cave, the biggest in Iceland.

Spend the day exploring the beautiful landscapes of Snaefellsnes. On a clear day you are able to see the top of Snaefellsjokull glacier, a dormant volcano which is the starting point of Jules Verne’s novel- Journey to the Center of Earth. As you drive around the peninsula, make sure to visit Londrangar basalt cliffs, Djupalonsandur beach and now famous Kirkjufell mountain. Alternatively take an optional excursion ‘Into the Glacier’. The unique adventure on Langjokull glacier begins with a journey by super truck – an old NATO missile launcher converted to a comfortable passenger vehicle, which takes visitors to the impressive man made ice tunnel on top of the glacier. The guided tour offers information on glaciers, past volcanic eruptions in Iceland and how this impressive project was conceived. Return to Husafell for a peaceful evening and a delicious dinner (additional cost).

Alternatively take an optional excursion ‘Into the Glacier’. The unique adventure on Langjokull glacier begins with a journey by super truck – an old NATO missile launcher converted to a comfortable passenger vehicle, which takes visitors to the impressive man made ice tunnel on top of the glacier. The guided tour offers information on glaciers, past volcanic eruptions in Iceland and how this impressive project was conceived.

Return to Husafell for a peaceful evening and a delicious dinner (additional cost).

iceland snaefellsnes londrangar volcanic pillars rth

iceland snaefellsnes arnarstapi person admiring view rth

Leave Husafell valley and head south taking a scenic detour around Hvalfjordur bay. Then head to Reykjanes Peninsula where you can choose to visit the world famous Blue Lagoon or explore the many sights. The Bridge Between Two Continents is a structure built to symbolise the close connection to both Europe and North-America. See the boiling mud pools and steam vents of Gunnuhver geothermal area and drive around Kleifarvatn lake. Check into the Northern Light Inn for you final night and enjoy the complimentary spa access.

west iceland driving beside hvalfjordur rth

iceland south west kleifarvatn lake summer view istk

iceland reykjanes peninsula gunnuhver hot springs istk

Northern Light Inn

A delightful, well-appointed hotel in a great location.

Drive the short distance to Keflavik airport, drop off your rental vehicle and check-in on your flight home.

Excursions

Iceland

Eyjafjallajokull by Superjeep

from £225

4 hours | Year round

This unique superjeep tour takes you up onto Eyjafjallajokull, the glacier atop the volcano that infamously erupted in 2010.

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Iceland

Ice Adventure on Vatnajokull Glacier

from £162

3.5 hours | Year round

Explore the glacier in a superjeep.

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Iceland

Thorsmork and Eyjafjallajokull volcano by Superjeep

£300

7 hours | Jun-Sep

A fascinating day trip by Superjeep, this excursion departs from Reykjavik and heads to the magnificent southern coast of Iceland.

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Iceland

Katla Ice Cave Tour

from £175

3 hours | Year round

Explore the inside of a remote natural ice cave with its beautiful colours and formations in the company of an experienced guide.

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Iceland

Landmannalaugar by Superjeep

from £250

8 hours | Year round

A journey through the wild and beautiful Icelandic highlands, this excursion explores colourful rhyolite mountains, bubbling hot springs and curious rock formations.

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Iceland

Snowmobiling on Myrdalsjokull Glacier

from £222

2.5 hours | Year round

This exhilirating snowmobiling adventure takes you to the top of the spectacular Mýrdalsjökull glacier, offering, weather permitting, breathtaking views over South Iceland,…

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Iceland

Snowmobiling on Eyjafjallajokull Glacier

from £188

3 hours | Year round

Snowmobiling on the infamous Eyjafjalajokull glacier is the perfect length of time for first-time riders and individuals looking for a scenic, fun…

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Iceland

Snowmobiling on Langjokull

from £182

3 hours | Year round

An exhilarating snowmobile trip on Iceland's second largest glacier, this journey heads to the sparkling expanse of Langjokull, which stretches to a…

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Iceland

Inside the Volcano

from £294

6 hours | May-Oct

A unique opportunity to explore inside a volcano

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Iceland

Lava Centre

from £31

Various hours | Year round

The new Lava Centre offers visitors a full multimedia experience; immersing guests into Iceland’s volcanic and seismic life.

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Iceland

The Lava Tunnel

from £53

Year round

Explore the magnificent lava tunnel Raufarhólshellir, one of the longest and best-known lava tubes in Iceland

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Iceland

Blue Ice Experience

from £125

3 hours | Mar-Aug

Walk on Svinafellsjokull Glacier Tongue in Skaftafell National Reserve part of Vatnajokull National Park.

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Iceland

Snorkelling Silfra Day Tour

from £120

3 hours | Year round

The Silfra fissure is one of Iceland's best kept secrets in the heart of Thingvellir National Park, this submerged canyon offers a…

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Iceland

Boat Trip on the Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon

from £42

35 mins | May-Aug

Boat Trip on the Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon

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Iceland

Blue Lagoon

from £91

At leisure | Year round

Take a dip in the naturally heated waters of the award-winning Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland’s premier attractions.

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Iceland

Ice Lagoon Zodiac Boat Tours

from £94

1 hours | May-Oct

Cruise around Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon, one of Iceland's most famous and jaw-dropping landmarks, in an inflatable rib (Zodiac). The design of the…

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Iceland

Secret Lagoon

from £23

Variable hours | Year round

The 'Secret Lagoon' was built in 1891 and is the oldest swimming pool in Iceland. This outdoor geothermal bathing spot remains at…

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Iceland

Into the Glacier – Ice Cave in Langjokull

from £156

5 hours | Year round

The Langjokull ice cave is a unique and magical glacier experience and is one of Iceland's most innovative attractions located in the…

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Iceland

Cave Explorer

from £50

1.5 hours | Year round

Enjoy an exciting guided walk into the mighty Vidgelmir lava cave a short distance from Husafell near to Borgarfjordur.

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Iceland

Whale Watching from Olafsvik

from £88

3 hours | Feb-Sep

Take a cruise from the coastal village of Olafsvik along the north shore of Snaefellsnes Peninsula on this whale watching excursion. There…

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Iceland

Thorsmork Valley by Superjeep

from £225

5 hours | Year round

A fascinating trip by Superjeep to Thorsmork, a unique area between the three glaciers; Myrdalsjokull, Eyjafjallajokull and Tindfjallajokull.

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Iceland

Sky Lagoon

from £69

At leisure | Year round

Enjoy captivating views from the geothermal Sky Lagoon as you soak in rejuvenating waters on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean.

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Prices and Departures

Price from £1349 excluding flights

Airfares vary widely and are quoted separately to the holiday price, starting from around £250pp return with Icelandair and British Airways, though may be lower with Play or EasyJet. We'll provide the best fare available at the time of enquiry, which tend to be cheaper the earlier you book.

UK Airports with flights direct to Iceland are Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, Bristol, Manchester, Glasgow and Edinburgh. We can also arrange flights from non-UK destinations. Discover more »

Iceland Volcano Disruption Protection
We are proud of our excellent reputation for looking after our clients, without question. Should the unexpected occur our team of dedicated Travel Specialists are on call 24/7 to make any necessary alternative plans at no cost to you.

What's Included

Accommodation in rooms with private bathroom
Daily breakfast
Car rental throughout with unlimited mileage
No charge for additional driver
24 hour emergency assistance from our team during your holiday
No surcharge guarantee
Full financial protection

This itinerary starts from around £1,349 per person, based on 2 sharing a room with private bathroom in standard hotels, and rental of an intermediate vehicle.

Prices may vary depending on departure date and booking date, as well as any changes to the included components. The final cost of a tailored holiday will be based on the level of accommodation, size of vehicle, included activities, travel season, and how far in advance it is booked. We will confirm the exact price for your holiday in your individual quotation, based on your chosen travel dates and inclusions.

* Choice of Vehicles

We can offer a wide range of rental vehicles for this holiday – our team will be happy to talk you through the options and provide a quote for the most suitable category based on your individual requirements.

4WD

We would always recommend a 4WD for winter travel, but many clients also prefer the greater security and comfort that a larger vehicle provides year round – upgrade your vehicle from as little as £10 per person, per day.
Go electric

With a selection of electric cars now available including the Kia Niro and Volkswagen ID.3, you can choose to upgrade from as little as £12 per person, per day. We recommend this option for summer only, due to the colder temperatures in winter affecting battery range.

Personalised adventures. Trusted expertise.

Enquire Now

Adventure, Your Way

Our tailor made approach means you can think of us as your personal planning service.

Every Trip is an Original

Whatever the brief we'll create an amazing trip to get excited about. We give you on tap knowledge.

Here's the Plan

View your trip itinerary along with travel tips and maps with our online portal and travel app.

24/7 On Trip Support

No-one likes a plot twist. As standard we provide complete piece of mind with our in country 24/7 support and guidance.

As Standard, Complete Piece of Mind

We’re listening. We always care what our fellow travellers think and love building strong customer relationships so we continuously focus on improving future experiences based on feedback. How incredible for the last three years we have received the Feefo Platinum Award.

The World's Great. Pass it On

To mark our 40th anniversary, we've launched our Education Bursary Fund to help disadvantaged school children experience the wonders of travel. A percentage of revenue from every holiday booked will go into the bursary fund to pay for at least 40 students to join one of our school trips abroad.

Highlights

Why this trip...

Stay in great locations

Explore at leisure

Well-researched route

Overview

Location, location, location

Itinerary

Hotel Ranga, near Hella

Hotel Husafell

Northern Light Inn

Excursions

Eyjafjallajokull by Superjeep

Ice Adventure on Vatnajokull Glacier

Thorsmork and Eyjafjallajokull volcano by Superjeep

Katla Ice Cave Tour

Landmannalaugar by Superjeep

Snowmobiling on Myrdalsjokull Glacier

Snowmobiling on Eyjafjallajokull Glacier

Snowmobiling on Langjokull

Inside the Volcano

Lava Centre

The Lava Tunnel

Blue Ice Experience

Snorkelling Silfra Day Tour

Boat Trip on the Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon

Blue Lagoon

Ice Lagoon Zodiac Boat Tours

Secret Lagoon

Into the Glacier – Ice Cave in Langjokull

Cave Explorer

Whale Watching from Olafsvik

Thorsmork Valley by Superjeep

Sky Lagoon

Prices and Departures

Price from £1349 excluding flights

What's Included

* Choice of Vehicles

4WD

Go electric

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