Complete Iceland Self Drive

On arrival in Iceland, collect the rental car at the airport and set off across the Reykjanes Peninsula, driving past expansive lava fields draped in moss and backed by distant mountains - a striking first glimpse of the country's volcanic landscape. Continue to Reykjavik for the first night in the capital. Driving distance approximately 50 km - 31 miles - accommodation in Reykjavik.

Drive the south coast to Vik i Mýrdal, taking in signature waterfalls and dramatic coastal viewpoints. Begin at Seljalandsfoss, where a path leads behind the curtain of water for a unique perspective - surfaces can be wet, so waterproofs and sturdy footwear are useful. Continue to Skogafoss to feel the power of its thundering cascade and swirling mist.

You then head to Dyrholaey for panoramic views of the coastline and its natural sea arch, before visiting Reynisfjara's black sand beach with basalt columns and the powerful North Atlantic surf - keep a safe distance from the water. The day ends in Vik i Mýrdal, known for its hilltop church set against dramatic cliffs. Overnight in the Vik area. Driving: approx. 200 km (124 miles) - allow a full day with time for short walks.

Leaving Vik, head east past black sand beaches and sea stacks towards Vatnajökull National Park - home to Europe's largest glacier. Pause in the Skaftafell area for views of Svartifoss, framed by basalt columns. The highlight is Jökulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and nearby Diamond Beach - icebergs drift in the lagoon before washing ashore on the black sands. You finish in Höfn, a picturesque fishing town with panoramic views of Vatnajökull and a reputation for excellent lobster. Driving distance today is approximately 270 km - we overnight in the Höfn area.

From Höfn, follow the coastal road through the East Fjords to Egilsstaðir - a striking drive of steep mountains, narrow fjords and wide Atlantic views. The route hugs the shoreline and winds through small fishing settlements, so expect slower speeds and plenty of photo stops. You may wish to pause in Djupivogur to see its outdoor art and abundant birdlife, and continue via Faskruðsfjörður, noted for the French fishermen who once wintered here. As you head north the scenery softens into greener valleys with salmon rivers before we reach Egilsstaðir - the east's main town and gateway to Lake Lagarfljot, known in local folklore for its legendary serpent. Driving: approx 260 km (161 miles). Accommodation: Egilsstaðir area.

Cross the stark volcanic plains of northeast Iceland towards Lake Mývatn. You make a short detour to Dettifoss - Europe's most powerful waterfall - to witness its thunderous drop into the canyon. Around Mývatn, explore the steaming fumaroles and bubbling mud pots at Namaskarð and wander among the dramatic lava formations of Dimmuborgir. You could take a relaxing soak at the Mývatn Nature Baths, and if you wish, you can hike up the rim of Hverfjall for broad views of the lake and surrounding lava fields.

Leaving the lake, continue west to Goðafoss - the Waterfall of the Gods - associated with Iceland's conversion to Christianity in the year 1000. On arrival in Akureyri, you can spend time exploring the largest town in the north. Driving: Approx 300 km (187 miles) Accommodation: Akureyri area.

You leave Akureyri and head west into Skagafjörður - a historic valley renowned for horse breeding and saga heritage. If you wish to detour from the main road, you can visit the Icelandic Emigration Centre in Hofsos and the medieval turf farm at Glaumbaer.

You then drive over the Holtavörðuheiði highland road into Borgarfjörður, beginning at Reykholt, once home to Snorri Sturluson. Here you visit Snorri's pool and the museum dedicated to his life and works before continuing to Deildartunguhver, Europe's most powerful hot spring. A short drive brings you to Hraunfossar, the Lava Waterfalls, and nearby Barnafoss with its striking blue rush. If time allows, you can round off the day at the Settlement Centre in Borgarnes for a concise introduction to Iceland's early history and sagas. Driving: Approx 350 km (218 miles). Accommodation: Borgarfjörður area.

Drive south to Þingvellir National Park - a UNESCO World Heritage Site - where the world's oldest recorded parliament, Alþingi, first met, and the rift between the North American and Eurasian plates is clearly visible. Follow the walking trails through Almannagja and visit Öxararfoss before continuing to the Geysir geothermal area in Haukadalur. Here you can watch Strokkur erupt every few minutes, with hot springs, mud pots and fumaroles surrounding the path. A short drive then brings you to Gullfoss - the Golden Falls - to take in the views from several viewpoints. After completing the Golden Circle, return to Reykjavik for the night. Driving today is around 290 km - 180 miles.

Depart from your accommodation in Reykjavik and drive to Keflavik International Airport - around 50 km (31 miles). We return the rental car at the airport and check in for our flight - please allow enough time for fuelling, car drop off and security. This marks the end of our Icelandic adventure.