14 Days in Iceland Winter Road Trip: A Journey of Natural Wonders and Unforgettable Experiences

Day 1: The Adventure Begins

Our Icelandic adventure started with a storm-induced delay, forcing a transit through Amsterdam. After nearly 36 sleepless hours, we finally arrived in Reykjavik late at night via Flybus. Flybus is the airport transfer bus service that brings you from the airport to almost every hotel in Reykjavik.

Day 2: Reykjavik’s Charm

Waking up to our first snowfall was magical. We explored Reykjavik, visiting the Sculpture and Shore Walk, Reykjavik Maritime Museum, and the quirky Icelandic Phallological Museum (Now who said Asians had small penises?). Rainbow Street led us to the Hallgrimskirkja Church. The bell tower offers a panoramic view of the city. Our day ended with a visit to the famous hotdog stand—an overpriced but must-try experience.

Day 3: Golden Circle Adventures

Our day didn’t start as planned; the pre-booked taxi didn’t show up. After some frustration with getting another taxi and the rude car rental assistant, we collected our rental car and headed to Thingvellir National Park. We visited Oxararfoss, watched Geysir erupt, and marveled at the powerful Gullfoss waterfall. A dip in the overcrowded Hrunalang hot spring was a quick but freezingly memorable experience. We ended the day at Heidi Cabin.

Day 4: South Coast Wonders

We started at Kerio Crater and then visited Seljalandsfoss, where snow blocked our path under the falls. We managed to explore Gljufrabui by wading through the water. Skogafoss was beautiful from both the top and below. We had some delicious fish and chips. Despite Dyrholaey’s viewpoint closure, we enjoyed breathtaking views from Reynisfjara Viewpoint. Our last stop was the famous Black Sand Beach, with its basalt columns and unbelievable waves and wind. We did a grocery run in Vik before heading to Snaebyli Cottage for the night.

Day 5: Glacier Adventures

Fjadrarglijufur required crampons for the winter trail, with a park ranger ensuring no one without them was allowed on the trail. We explored Skaftárstofa, Systrafoss, and Dverghamrar. Foss Midway Li la lo, a series of roadside waterfalls, was a quick stop before our hike in Skaftafell to the glacier’s edge. We dropped by Diamond Beach and compared it to the glacier at Skaftafell. If only we had a whole day, we would have spent it exploring Skaftafell. The highlight was witnessing the Aurora Borealis from our Airbnb, thanks to our host, Rut’s spot-on direction at Sefdalur Studio Apartment.

Day 6: Eastern Iceland Exploration

We visited the Viking Village movie prop, Vestrahorn Mountain, and Skútafoss. Hvalnes Nature Reserve Beach was serene, and we ended the day in Egilsstadir at Ásgeirsstaðir Holiday Homes.

Day 7: Northern Marvels and Getting Stuck in Snow

Our adventure began with visits to Rjukandafoss and Vopnafjörður. But then, disaster struck—we got stuck in the snow and needed a tow. The three meters cost us USD 300, which really put a damper on our plans. Huge thanks to everyone who stopped to help and to the Icelander who got us the towing service. The rental car company was useless, redirecting our calls to support that never picked up. A handmade pizza at Þórshöfn’s N1 petrol kiosk lifted our spirits. The Arctic Henge in Raufarhöfn was a unique experience, and we ended the day at Mylllan cabin, the northernmost town in Iceland, enjoying another night of auroras.

Day 8: Geothermal Wonders and More Auroras

Asbyrgi canyon was closed for winter, so we headed to Dettifoss. We took in views at Öxarfjörður beach and at Camping 66.12. North. Skútustaðagígar’s craters and Dimmuborgir’s lava formations were fascinating. We witnessed the auroras again from Dimmuborgir Guesthouse. This time we didn’t even need to leave the cabin; we just switched off the lights and looked out the window.

Day 9: Myvatn’s Mysteries

Hverfjall’s crater, Hverir’s geothermal area, and the Blue Lake were stunning. Although Krafla was closed, Stóragjá’s hot spring was a relaxing end to the day at Bakkakot1.

Day 10: Scenic Drives

We stopped at Útsýnispallur for a panoramic view, then headed to Grafarkirkja, Iceland’s oldest church, which was unfortunately closed. Varmahlíð’s rest stop was a peaceful break before exploring Kolugljúfur Canyon and the unique Rhino rock Hvitserkur. We stayed at Hvammstangi Hill Homes.

Day 11: West Iceland’s Wonders

Grábrók’s volcanic crater and Glanni Waterfall were captivating as was Hraunfossar’s waterfalls . The day ended at Hömluholt Holiday Homes, where we were treated to yet another aurora display.

Day 12: Snæfellsnes Peninsula

We visited Búðakirkja, the iconic black church, Arnarstapi and Hellnar viewpoints, and Lóndrangar’s sea stacks. Vatnshellir Cave and Djúpalónssandur’s black sand beach were highlights, and we ended the day at Kirkjufell, one of Iceland’s most photographed mountains. Another amazing night with the Northern Lights.

Day 13: Bad Weather and Fagradalsfjall

We found ourselves stuck in a café due to the inclement weather. The wind was so strong that the café owners urged us to stay inside until the storm passed. They kindly allowed us to take shelter without ordering anything. Once the storm subsided, we only had enough time to visit the Fagradalsfjall volcano. The best part was having the whole area to ourselves. Where else can you get within touching distance of lava that is still flowing? It was an exhilarating and surreal experience.

Day 14: Reykjanes Peninsula

Our final day included visits to Krýsuvík’s geothermal area, Gunnuhver’s hot springs, and Sandvík’s crater. The Bridge between America and Europe was a fitting end to our Icelandic adventure. We stayed at Garður Apartments, near the airport, as we had an early morning flight out to Copenhagen.

Our 14 days in Iceland were filled with incredible sights, memorable experiences, and the breathtaking beauty of this unique country. Despite the occasional hiccup, the trip was an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s most stunning landscapes.