Skip to content

South West Iceland Holidays

4.8/5

Average Customer Score
Based On 1280 Reviews

4.8/5

Average Customer Score
Based On 1280 Reviews

Overview

Most first-timers to Iceland choose to explore this region partly because it is where both the international airport at Keflavik and the capital city are located, but also because there is so much stunning scenery to explore, including the sights on the famed Golden Circle route.

Encompassing the rugged Reykjanes Peninsula and extending along the south shore to Vik, the south west of Iceland offers a diversity of experiences. Visit volcanoes and glaciers, marvel at thundering waterfalls and witness geysers erupt into the air amidst natural hot springs. Take in the culture and vibrancy of Reykjavik, relax in the naturally heated waters of the world-renowned Blue Lagoon and head out whale watching. In the winter months you can add the thrill of chasing the aurora to the mix.

This is a region perfectly suited to short breaks, both independent and in small groups with an expert guide and like-minded people. But such is the wealth of places to see and activities to enjoy that staying longer comes highly recommended, exploring at your own pace on a self drive holiday.

There's nothing like personal experience from someone who's been there to elevate your holiday out of the ordinary. Our specialists have in bucket loads ready to tailor make your adventure.
Plan Your Trip
  • iceland reykjanes peninsula geothermal pools near blue lagoon

    Highlights

    Reykjanes Peninsula & Blue Lagoon

    Explore fantastic lavascapes and have a dip in the milky-blue waters of the world-famous Blue Lagoon. Visit the hot springs at Krisuvik or walk the ‘Bridge between Continents’ where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates are pulling apart. Watch the surf, sunset and thousands of birds, even whales, at Gardar, whose two lighthouses are among eleven that grace this rocky coastline.

    View Trip Idea
  • Iceland holidays - visit Seljalandsfoss in the south west

    Highlights

    Seljalandsfoss

    Further south Seljalandsfoss is arguably the most beautiful waterfall in Iceland. The water cascades over a former sea-cliff, allowing visitors to walk behind it – a remarkable experience for the sure-footed.

  • Highlights

    Skogafoss

    Yet another magnificent waterfall. Walk up to the wide, thundering curtain of water, 60m high and soak up the sight and sound. Perhaps climb the path to the top of the falls for a different perspective. Nearby is the little Skogar Museum with its turf houses and pretty church.

  • iceland thorsmork mountains reflected in river istk

    Highlights

    Thorsmork

    ‘Thor’s Wood’ is almost completely surrounded by mountains between which three glaciers spill down, one creating a glacial lagoon. The valley floor is criss-crossed with streams which at certain times of the year become raging rivers. An area hugely popular with walkers, hike to the lookout above the picnic area and enjoy panoramic views. Due to the rough terrain, travellers can either explore by Superjeep excursion or hire their own high-clearance 4WD vehicle.

  • Highlights

    Westman Islands

    A group of 15 volcanic islands, famous for their puffin population. Heimaey, the largest island, has a thriving fishing town, partly destroyed during the 1973 eruption that thrust up a new volcano. Get there by air taxi from Bakki and from July 2010 by the new 30-minute ferry service.

  • Highlights

    Dyrholaey

    Pounding waves have eroded a natural rock arch here through the headland (best viewed from the black sand beach below) and the bumpy drive to the top is worth the effort for some stunning views. It is also a great place to observe puffins, arctic terns and guillemots except for 6 weeks during May/June when the area is closed for the nesting season.

  • south iceland vik church and reynisdrangar sea stacks sunny day istk

    Highlights

    Vik

    This small coastal town has a tiny hilltop church. Have a pit stop for food and fuel, visit the wool shop for local crafts or stroll along the black sand beach – the view across to the headland and its distinctive sea stacks, Reynisdrangur, is one you’ll see on many a postcard. Nearby is Myrdalsjokull, where snowmobiling trips are available on the glacier.

iceland south west strokkur geysir rth

Golden Circle

Thingvellir national park is excellent for birds and wildflowers. An area of exceptional geological and historical interest; visit the ‘lawrock’ where the ancient parliament or ‘Althing’ met to make laws and settle disputes.

The geysir area of geothermal activity gives its name to other such waterspouts around the world – see Strokkur regularly erupt to around 30m. Walking trails are marked out among scalding hot pools and trickling streams.

Forming the final piece of the Golden Circle trio of natural wonders along with Geysir and Thingvellir, is Gullfoss, these rainbow misted double falls drop around 33m then plunge into a mile long gorge. An awesome sight at any time of year and in winter, they have been known to freeze over.

Discover More

The Volcanic Way

This new touring route majors on Iceland’s volcanic hotspots along the south coast from the currently active Reykjanes Peninsula to the Skaftafell National Park in the south west. Featured along the route is Hveragerdi, also known as the ‘greenhouse’ village due to the amount of geothermal activity in the area. You can hike around the lively hot springs in nearby Reykjadalur on a two hour round-trip.

Mount Hekla is an active volcano that sits brooding behind fields of lava from past eruptions. Hekla is actually a ridge rather than a single cone and at 1488m high, it attracts many a hiker. The nearby Thjorsa Valley includes Haifoss (Iceland’s second highest waterfall) and Hjalparfoss. Take a stroll through the Gjain gorge and see the Viking farm Stong.

 

Discover More

Trip ideas

View Our Trips

Trip experiences

  • Hvammsvik Hot Spring

    Iceland

    A unique and authentic experience in unspoiled nature.

    From £56

    2

    Year Round

    Discover More

  • Fontana Spa

    Iceland

    Soak in a natural pool, listen to the bubbling hot spring in the steam rooms, or for the adventurous take a dip in the refreshing lake.

    From £32

    2

    Year Round

    Discover More

  • Krauma Geothermal Baths

    Iceland

    Experience nature from its core by bathing in the geothermal baths at Krauma .

    From £43

    1

    Year Round

    Discover More
    west iceland krauma geothermal nature baths

  • The Lava Tunnel

    Iceland

    Explore the magnificent lava tunnel Raufarhólshellir, one of the longest and best-known lava tubes in Iceland

    From £53

    Year Round

    Discover More
    iceland raufarholshellir lava tunnel rth

  • South Coast and Eyjafjallajokull Tour by Superjeep

    Iceland

    Discover glaciers, dramatic sandy coastlines and striking waterfalls and witness the effect of the 2010 eruption of the now dormant Eyjafjallajökull volcano.

    From £300

    9 hours

    Year Round

    Discover More
    iceland south west superjeeps daytours

  • Katla Ice Cave Tour

    Iceland

    Explore the inside of a remote natural ice cave with its beautiful colours and formations in the company of an experienced guide.

    From £175

    3

    Year Round

    Discover More

  • Snowmobiling on Eyjafjallajokull Glacier

    Iceland

    Snowmobiling on the infamous Eyjafjalajokull glacier is the perfect length of time for first-time riders and individuals looking for a scenic, fun ride.

    From £188

    3 hours

    Year Round

    Discover More
    iceland south west snowmobiling on eyjafjallajokull south coast ad

  • Lava Centre

    Iceland

    The new Lava Centre offers visitors a full multimedia experience; immersing guests into Iceland’s volcanic and seismic life.

    From £31

    Various

    Year Round

    Discover More
    south west iceland lava centre exhibit

  • South Coast Day Tour

    Iceland

    Follow the North Atlantic coastline from Reykjavík into the volcanic and glacier-covered wonderland that is Iceland´s south coast.

    From £94

    11 hours

    Year Round

    Discover More
    iceland hekla volcano behind farm rth

  • Secret Lagoon

    Iceland

    The 'Secret Lagoon' was built in 1891 and is the oldest swimming pool in Iceland. This outdoor geothermal bathing spot remains at a constant temperature of 36-40°C and is accessible throughout the year.

    From £23

    Variable

    Year Round

    Discover More
    iceland south west secret lagoon photographer rth
  •  

Accommodation ideas

  • The Greenhouse Hotel, Hveragerdi

    Iceland Standard Hotel

    Offering views over the steaming hot springs and mountain peaks that surround the town of Hveragerdi, The Greenhouse Hotel opened in 2021 and brings a fresh and natural vibe.

    Discover More
    the greenhouse hotel reception

  • Stracta Hotel Hella

    Iceland Standard Hotel

    This modern and well situated hotel has accommodation to suit a range of preferences and requirements.

    Discover More
    stracta hotel hella

  • Frost and Fire Hveragerdi

    Iceland Standard Hotel

    Set amongst one of the most active geothermal regions in the world, this hotel is the perfect base from which to explore Iceland’s south west.

    Discover More
    frost and fire exterior view hveragerdi

  • Hotel Grimsborgir, nr Selfoss

    Iceland Deluxe Hotel

    Just a 45-minute drive from Reykjavik and a 90-minute drive from Keflavik international airport, the hotel is conveniently located for exploring the Golden Circle.

    Discover More
    grimsborgir suite

  • Northern Light Inn

    Iceland Standard Hotel

    A delightful, well-appointed hotel in a great location.

    Discover More
    northern light inn aurora overhead feb19 bw

  • Hotel Ranga, near Hella

    Iceland Deluxe Hotel

    Around an hour's drive from Reykjavik, this cosy riverside lodge offers four-star comfort and fine dining in the volcanic heart of rural Iceland.

    Discover More
    hotel ranga restaurant exterior rowellphotography

  • Hotel Geysir

    Iceland Standard Hotel

    Hotel Geysir is a modern family run hotel located opposite the hot spring area which gave the hotel its name.

    Discover More
  •  

Other Iceland regions