Driving Around Iceland: A Guide to the Famous Ring Road

Navigating the Ring Road

As we explained before, Iceland’s Ring Road is the ultimate route for exploring the country’s diverse landscapes and vibrant culture. This iconic highway offers travelers a chance to discover not only the country’s natural beauty but also many of its most important and interesting cities and towns.

Its construction began in the early 1970s and was completed in 1974. Since then, many improvement works have been done to adapt the road to contemporary life. Route 1, its official name—which in the native tongue is called Þjóðvegur 1 or Hringvegur—is a crucial piece of infrastructure for both locals and tourists.

The goal was to connect the entire country, as some areas and regions had been isolated for decades. Of course, it doesn’t cover every corner of the islands, but many other roads connect to it. The road is primarily two lanes, with some sections featuring narrow bridges and challenging curves. It's a well-maintained route, but travelers should be prepared for varying weather conditions, especially in winter.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Ring Road is that it goes through many regions, showing Iceland's geological diversity. Along this route, travelers can see many different landscapes, from green pastures and volcanic deserts to icy glaciers and rugged coastlines.

This makes it the perfect vessel for tourists who want to explore Iceland's natural wonders in a relatively short amount of time.

Main Attractions on the Ring Road

The drive along the Ring Road is a beautiful journey. It is like going to an open-air museum, in which you decide which pieces of art you are going to see, choosing your own pace. Route 1 passes several of Iceland's most amazing attractions. Let’s stop at the best of them.

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

If you start the journey from Reykjavik and start heading east, one of the best things you’ll meet along the way is Seljalandsfoss Waterfall. This 60 meters (196 feet) tall cascade is one of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland. One of its most attractive features is that there’s a path that goes behind the falling water. From there, you’ll have a perspective that is unique and breathtaking.

Skógafoss

The next stop in our journey is another iconic waterfall: Skógafoss. This cascade has a similar size to Seljalandsfoss, but the setting is completely different. It’s known for its characteristic mist. When the sun is out, it creates a beautiful rainbow effect. Visitors can climb a staircase to an observation platform above the falls for a different vantage point. There’s also a touch of Icelandic legend here. Story tells of a Viking settler named Þrasi Þórólfsson who hid a treasure chest behind the waterfall.

Vik, Reynisfjara Beach, and Dyrhólaey

The beaches in Iceland are famous all over the world for their striking beauty. Perhaps it’s not your go-to place for sunbathing, but they are worth a visit. Near the charming village of Vík, we can find Reynisfjara Beach, famous for its black sand, basalt columns, and dramatic sea stacks. The beach is also known for its powerful waves, so visitors should exercise caution when walking along the shore. The nearby Dyrhólaey promontory offers panoramic views of the coastline and is a great spot for birdwatching.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach

Still in the south of the country, but a bit further east, we’ll get to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. It’s a stunning glacial lagoon with big pieces of ice that have separated from the glacier and are floating on the water before drifting off to the sea. If you head to the nearby Diamond Beach, you will see the blue little icebergs in contrast with the black sand.

Lake Mývatn

We have now arrived in North Iceland, where many amazing places are waiting for us. One of them is Lake Mývatn, known for its geothermal activity, unique lava formations, and rich birdlife. Here you can relax by taking a geothermal bath in the middle of an astonishing landscape. There are also several trekking paths in the area that will take you to the surrounding lava fields.

Detifoss

Not far from there is Dettifoss, Iceland’s most powerful waterfall and the second in Europe. Also known as “The Beast”, has a fall of 44 meters (144 feet) and a width of 100 meters (330 feet). Visitors often feel humbled by the sheer power of the waterfall. There are viewing platforms on both sides of the waterfall.

Godafoss

Then you can visit Godafoss, one of the most famous and historically meaningful waterfalls in Iceland. The name translates as ‘Waterfall of the Gods’. The place is not only stunning in natural beauty but also has important historical significance. It was here that Iceland converted to Christianity in the year 1000.

Attractions Near the Ring Road

So far, we have listed places that are just off the Ring Road. However, there are many more. And if you take a little detour, you can improve even more the experience of driving on the amazing Route 1.

The Golden Circle

The famous Golden Circle starts from the Ring Road itself. This popular tourist route includes three major attractions: Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss, a stunning two-tiered waterfall. These sites are all within a day's drive from Reykjavik and offer a great introduction to Iceland's natural beauty.

The Westman Islands

In front of the south coast is Vestmannaeyjar, also known as the Westman Islands. This archipelago is accessible by ferry, and is a famous spot for birdwatching. Here you can find the charming puffin. The king of these islands is the Eldfell Volcano. Its eruption in 1973 reshaped the main island significantly. Visitors can hike up the volcano to witness the new lava fields and enjoy panoramic views of the island and the surrounding ocean.

Þórsmörk & Landmannalaugar

Another great stop to make if you are navigating the Ring Road is Þórsmörk. This picturesque valley, nestled between three glaciers, is a paradise for hikers. This valley is known for its lush vegetation, glacial rivers, and stunning mountain views.

Not far from it is Landmannalaugar. In fact, you can take the Laugavegur trail, which connects both sites. Landmannalaugar is astonishing, with its colorful rhyolite mountains and geothermal hot springs. There are many trails to discover every corner of this area.

The Diamond Circle

As happens with the Golden Circle, Route 1 is also part of another great route that connects several places: The Diamond Circle. This looping scenic route is in the north of the country. It goes by five main attractions: Goðafoss Waterfall, Lake Mývatn, Dettifoss Waterfall, Ásbyrgi Canyon, and the charming town of Húsavík.

Snaefellsnes Peninsula

In western Iceland, you can visit the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, home of Snaefellsjökull National Park, one of the three national parks in Iceland.

In this region, you can visit Kirkjufell, the most photographed mountain in the country, or the Snaefellsjökull glacier, an impressive ice cap that sits atop a volcano. The peninsula is also home to several hiking trails and unique geological features.

Which Cities Does the Ring Road Pass By?

The Ring Road passes through several key towns and cities, offering many opportunities to explore Icelandic culture and history. We will start in the country’s capital, Reykjavik, and head north in a clockwise direction.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a city full of life and culture, with numerous museums, galleries, and historical sites. It’s the core of Iceland’s life, and one-third of the country’s population lives here. This city is the northernmost capital of any sovereign state in the world, and offers a combination of natural beauty, rich culture, and modern lifestyle. Highlights include the iconic Hallgrimskirkja church, or ng Laugavegur, the main commercial street in the city.

Borgarnes

Continuing north from Reykjavik, travelers will reach Borgarnes, a small town with a rich history dating back to the first settlers on the island. Here you can learn about Iceland's early history and the sagas in the Settlement Center. The town's scenic location also offers beautiful views of the surrounding fjords and mountains.

Akureyri

Further north on the road is Akureyri, Iceland's second-largest urban area. Unofficially nicknamed “The Capital of North Iceland”, it’s a great mix of outdoor activities and cultural experiences. It’s close to the Diamond Circle and is an important port and fishing center. If you are a nature enthusiast, the Akureyri Botanical Gardens showcase a diverse range of Arctic and temperate plants.

Egilsstaðir

If you want to explore the east fjords, a great idea is to stay at Egilsstaðir. This area of Iceland is less known and visited than others, but not short of beauty. The fjords here are known for their dramatic landscapes and charming fishing villages.

Höfn

In the southeast, you will come across Höfn, a nice little town that offers stunning views of the Vatnajökull glacier. Höfn is renowned for its lobster dishes and fresh seafood while taking in the breathtaking glacier views. The town is also close to Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.

Vík

The journey continues to Vík, a small village known for its black sand beaches –such as Reynisfjara Beach- and striking basalt columns. Vík is the southernmost village in Iceland and is often used as a base for exploring the South Coast's many attractions.

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The Ring Road in Every Season

Driving on the Ring Road is pretty straightforward and easy. The road conditions are good, it's well maintained, and it's easy to follow directions. It’s always a good idea to follow some considerations, though, as the weather can affect the driving experience in this country.

Spring (April and May)

One of the perks of going on the Ring Road in spring is seeing the landscapes at their best. The blooming nature creates an amazing palette of colors, and the waterfalls are particularly impressive during spring, as the melting snow and ice increase their flow.

It’s a rainy season, but there are little chances of snow, especially as the season goes by.

Summer (June to August)

This season provides the best driving conditions. The temperatures are mild, and it rains considerably less than the rest of the year. Also, the extended daylight hours are perfect, so you don’t have to drive at night, which some people avoid at all costs. It’s a great time for outdoor activities, too.

Summer is peak season, which means that Route 1 will be busier. It’s advisable to book accommodations and tours well in advance.

Autumn (September and October)

The temperatures gradually decrease, as well as the daylight hours. But the vegetation looks especially astonishing during this season. In autumn, the phenomenon of the Northern Lights begins to happen, as the darkening skies offer optimal viewing conditions.

During autumn, most of Iceland's natural attractions remain accessible, though some Highland roads may close as early as October. The weather can be unpredictable, with occasional rain and the first signs of snow in higher elevations.

Winter (November to March)

Winter transforms Iceland into a snowy wonderland, perfect for experiencing the Northern Lights and winter sports. However, driving conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice, and some parts of the Ring Road may be temporarily closed during severe weather. It's essential to check weather forecasts and road conditions regularly and to be prepared for sudden changes.

Driving Tips for the Ring Road

Driving the Ring Road requires preparation and caution, especially for those unfamiliar with Iceland's unique road conditions. As we said, the road itself is well maintained, but be careful while going on secondary roads, especially the infamous F-roads. Here are some essential tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey:

• Choose your vehicle. The best way to explore Iceland is to rent a car. While a standard two-wheel-drive vehicle is sufficient for summer travel, a four-wheel-drive is recommended for winter or if you are going to an area with rugged roads. A navigator is a great added help.
• Weather monitoring. Icelandic weather is notoriously unpredictable and is constantly changing. Before setting out each day, check the weather forecast and road conditions to avoid unpleasant surprises. Be prepared to adjust your plans if severe weather is expected.
• Single-lane bridges. Many sections of the Ring Road feature single-lane bridges. The rule is that the vehicle closest to the bridge has the right of way, so approach these bridges with caution and be prepared to give way if necessary. These bridges can be particularly challenging in winter when visibility is reduced, and roads are slippery.
• Fuel stops. Fuel stations can be sparse in remote areas, so it's essential to fill up whenever you have the opportunity. Running out of fuel in the middle of nowhere can be both inconvenient and dangerous.
• Safety gear. Make sure that your car has the appropriate tires for different climatic events. In winter, it must be equipped with snow tires.
• Driving etiquette. Icelanders are known for their patience and courtesy on the road. Follow local driving customs, obey speed limits, and always use turn signals. If you need to stop for photos or a break, pull off the road to a safe parking area to avoid obstructing traffic.
• Road hazards. Be aware of potential road hazards such as livestock, potholes, and gravel roads. Some sections of the Ring Road are still gravel, and driving on these surfaces requires extra caution-

Conclusion

Driving the Ring Road is the best way to cover most of Iceland. It will take you around the island with easy access to some of the best attractions in the country. Whether you’re captivated by cascading waterfalls, enchanted by black sand beaches, or mesmerized by glacial lagoons, this route promises an unforgettable journey.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Ring Road