Best Of South Iceland

Holiday overview

On this summertime self-drive, you'll explore the delights of Reykjavik before heading out on open roads to explore the geological wonderland of Iceland's spectacular southwest corner. Highlights range from the mighty waterfalls and geysers of the Golden Circle, best explored by SuperJeep, to the creaking glaciers, iceberg-studded lagoons and black-sand beaches of the volcanic south coast.

Holiday itinerary

Days 1-2: Reykjavik

Fly to Keflavik and take the airport shuttle to Reykjavik where you’ll check into Hotel Centrum before heading out to absorb the laidback yet lively atmosphere of the Icelandic capital. Spend the next day wandering the streets and shores of the city, browsing bookshops, sipping happy-hour drinks and admiring the vibrant arts scene. Or, take a SuperJeep tour of the Golden Circle, a region that comprises some of Iceland’s most impressive natural wonders.

Day 3: Hella

Collect your hire car and set off on a two-hour drive to Hella on Iceland’s spectacular southern coast. From your base at Hotel Ranga, you’ll have a full range of summer excursions to choose from; perhaps take in the wild beauty of Thingvellir National Park, hike to a 3,000-year-old sunken volcano or head to Silfra for the chance to snorkel between two tectonic plates.

Days 4-5: Vik

Drive on to Vík and the excellent Hotel Kria, complete with a traditional Icelandic restaurant and sweeping views across the surrounding landscapes. Once you've checked in, you’ll then have time to explore Iceland’s southernmost village, perhaps taking a stroll through town or along its black-sand beach. Other highlights include the lava stacks at Reynisdrangar and the Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, while on the following day there's the chance to drive east to explore the iceberg-studded Jökulsárlón Lagoon or the magnificent Vatnajokull Glacier.

Stay: Hotel Kria

Day 6: Blue Lagoon

Depart Vik for the Blue Lagoon and spend your final day relaxing in the mineral-rich waters of Iceland’s best-known spa. To help you make the most of your time, we've included a comfort pass, which includes entry, a towel, algae mask and a first drink of your choice. And, in summer, the lagoon opens until midnight, affording even more time to enjoy its healing waters. You'll stay tonight at the nearby Northern Light Inn, a family-run hotel offering the likes of geothermal hot water, L'Occitane amenities and complimentary access to its own wellness spa.

Stay: Northern Light Inn

Day 7: Depart for UK

Head to the airport this morning to return your hire car in time for your flight home.

Holiday pricing

• Return flights from a wide choice of UK domestic airports
• One-way airport to hotel shuttle transfer
• 2 nights at the Hotel Reykjavik Centrum in a standard room on a B&B basis
• 1 night at the Ranga Hotel, Hella in a standard room on a B&B basis
• 2 nights at the Hotel Kria, Vik in a standard room on a B&B basis
• 1 night at the Northern Light Inn, Grindavik in a standard room on a B&B basis
• 6 days (6x24hrs) economy car hire
• 1 x Comfort Entry to the Blue Lagoon inclusive of towel rental, algae mask and first drink of your choice