Experience Iceland: The Volcanic Island with Black Sand Beaches
Iceland Travel
The Volcanic Island with Black Sand Beaches
Glorious Glaciers and Northern Lights Self-Drive (Driving Holiday)
8 days/ 7nights
This winter, treat yourself to a different type of islands and beach holiday. Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland, a volcanic island with exotic black sand beaches … and more!
If you like your trips to include a blend of otherworldly landscapes, outdoor adventure, and spa relaxation -- with spectacular glaciers and northern lights added in -- Iceland is YOUR destination. Winter in Iceland is magical, with fantasy landscapes and a beautiful daylight that often has a pearly glow. Despite its Arctic location, winters in Iceland are milder than you might expect. (Average high temperatures are around 2 - 4°C.) After a day of fun activities and outdoor discoveries you can relax in natural hot spring-fed pools. There‘s nothing like relaxing in a cozy warm pool while the snow falls or northern lights shimmer in the sky!
Our popular “Glorious Glaciers and Northern Lights“ Self-Drive holiday introduces you to the black sand beaches, majestic glaciers, and hot spring bathing of South and West Iceland.
Highlights:
- Walk on the black sands of South Iceland‘s Reynisfjara beach, where powerful waves crash against the shore and basalt columns reach to the sky.
- Admire South Iceland‘s famous Diamond Beach, where glittering icebergs rest on black sands before drifting out to sea.
- Marvel at the beautiful black lava pearls of Djupalonsandur Beach on enchanting Snaefellsnes Peninsula (West Iceland).
- Relax in the rustic seaside geothermal pools at Hvammsvik Nature Area, where hot springs flow into an ocean surrounded by mountains and black sand beaches.
- Overnight in countryside locations well situated to view northern lights (should they decide to appear).
Travel Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Iceland. Pick up your rental car at the airport and drive to Reykjavik. Depending on your arrival time, you can explore the craters, lava cliffs and colourful geothermal areas of Reykjanes Peninsula on your way to Reykjavik. Optional Blue Lagoon visit. Overnight in Reykjavik.
Day 2: Visit West Iceland’s Borgarfjordur region and its enchanting volcanic landscapes, lava waterfalls and Viking history. Optional visit to Hvammsvik nature area for hot spring bathing. The modern stone-lined seaside pools evoke the traditional hot spring pools of olden times. Overnight in the Borgarfjordur area (2 nights).
Day 3: Explore the mystical and charming Snaefellsnes Peninsula of West Iceland. Marvel at Djupalonssandur Beach, known for its amazing lava stone pearls and rocky black coastline. Explore the Arnarstapi sea cliffs and enjoy views of the beautiful Snaefellsjokull glacier-volcano. Overnight in the Borgarfjordur area.
Day 4: Head to South Iceland via the world-famous Golden Circle. Visit “must-see” natural wonders like Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, and the lively Geysir geothermal area. Optional hot spring pool bathing at the Secret Lagoon or Laguarvatn Fontana Steam Baths. Overnight in South Iceland.
Day 5: Drive along Iceland’s South Shore region. Visit two magnificent waterfalls: Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss. A highlight is the black sand Reynisfjara Beach and its surreal basalt columns. Optional opportunities for glacier snowmobiling or an ATV ride on a black sand beach. Overnight in Southeast Iceland.
Day 6: Explore the beauty of southern Vatnajokull National Park. Visit the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon where icebergs drift in the water. Nearby is the word-famous Diamond Beach where glittering icebergs rest on the black sands. Visit the park’s Skaftafell area where you can admire glaciers and even try an optional guided glacier hike. Overnight in Southeast Iceland.
Day 7: Drive to Reykjavik along the Ring Road, enjoying views and activities you might have missed on Day 5. Return to Reykjavik in the late afternoon/early evening. Optional visit to the Sky Lagoon, a seaside geothermal spa near Reykjavik. Overnight in Reykjavik.
Day 8: Drive back to Keflavik International Airport and return your rental car. Departure from Iceland, full of memories of Iceland’s nature, relaxation, and adventure.
Recommended Travel Period: 1. October – 15. April
Important: Please note northern lights are a natural phenomenon and sightings are not guaranteed.
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