Ultimate 3 day itinerary from Landhotel

June 4, 2025 By Blog Comments Off

the ultimate 3-day itinerary

exploring south iceland from landhotel

Located near most of the popular attractions in South Iceland, Landhotel offers the perfect starting point for discovering the dramatic beauty of South Iceland. This 3-day itinerary blends iconic sights, hidden gems, and local culture—all within easy reach of the hotel.

This 3-day itinerary balances adventure and comfort, making Landhotel a perfect base for discovering the best of South Iceland.

DAY 1: Wonders of The Golden Circle

Begin your adventure with a classic route: the Golden Circle. First, head to Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Next, visit the amazing Gullfoss waterfall, then take a short drive to Geysir where the erupting geyser Strokkur is.. On your way back, consider a stop at the Secret Lagoon in Flúðir for a geothermal soak before returning to Landhotel for a cozy evening.

DAY 2: South Coast Adventures

Drive south on road nr. 1  to explore Iceland’s famous coastline. Start at Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall you can walk behind (psst don´t forget to look at Gljúfrabúi), and continue to Skógafoss, one of the country’s most iconic falls. Don’t miss the Skógar Museum nearby for local history. Next, head to Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach with its dramatic basalt columns and sea stacks (make sure to follow the instructions on all warning signs, the waves can be dangerous if you get too close). Cap off your day with a sunset stop at Dyrhólaey, with stunning views of the coastline and Atlantic Ocean. Head back to Landhotel for a nice evening and a delicious dinner.

DAY 3: Higlands and Landmannalaugar

Venture into the Icelandic Highlands with a day trip to Landmannalaugar (4×4 recommended). This area is famous for its colorful rhyolite mountains, lava fields, and natural hot springs. Hike trails like Bláhnjúkur or Brennisteinsalda, or simply relax in the geothermal river after a short walk. The scenic drive alone, passing lakes and volcanic terrain, is unforgettable. Return to Landhotel for a peaceful final night under the stars—possibly with a glimpse of the Northern Lights in the right season. 

Day tour Southcoast Iceland

June 1, 2024 By Blog Comments Off

Day tour Landhotel
lava center - seljalandsfoss - skógafoss - reynisfjara

A day tour combining visit to Seljalandsfoss, the Lava Center, Skógafoss, and Reynisfjara (Black Beach) offers a vast exploration of South Iceland’s natural wonders and geological exploration of Iceland volcanic activity. This day trip takes you along the southern coast of Iceland,  with impressive landscapes, from powerful waterfalls and volcanic exhibits to the dramatic Reynisfjara (The Black Beach).

lava center

The Lava Center in Hvolsvöllur is an interactive museum dedicated to Iceland’s volcanic activity, earthquakes, and geology.

There you will learn about Iceland’s volcanic history, the nature of eruptions, and the country’s unique geology through interactive displays.

The exhibits, including simulations of eruptions and earthquakes, provide you with a deep understanding of Iceland’s powerful geological forces.

seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, knowned by the unique path that allows travellers to walk behind the cascading water.

Walk behind the waterfall: The trail takes you behind the 60-meter tall waterfall, offering a unique perspective and excellent photo opportunities.

The ability to walk behind the waterfall and feel the mist is a thrilling experience. The views from behind the waterfall, especially during sunset, can be breathtaking.

Nearby is Gljúfrabúi, a hidden waterfall inside a canyon, is also worth a visit. It is only 500 m away from Seljalandsfoss.  Don´t miss out on exploring this hidden gem.

 

skógafoss

Skógafoss is one of Iceland’s largest and most iconic waterfalls, known for its impressive height and powerful flow.

Stand at the foot of the waterfall to experience its full power and take in the misty atmosphere.

A staircase leads to a viewing platform above the waterfall, offering stunning views of the falls and the surrounding landscape.

The sheer power and beauty of Skógafoss, along with the chance to see rainbows in the mist on sunny days, will make it a highlight of your day tour.

reynisfjara (black beach)

Reynisfjara is a dramatic black sand beach near the town of Vík, famous for its striking basalt columns, sea stacks, and powerful waves.

Explore the unique hexagonal basalt columns at the base of Reynisfjall mountain.

View the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, which, according to legend, are trolls turned to stone.

The contrast of the black sand against the crashing waves, combined with the unique geological formations, makes Reynisfjara one of the most photogenic areas in Iceland.

Please be very cautious about the waves, where the ocean at Reynisfjara can be unpredictable and powerful, so visitors should stay well back from the water.

tour itenarary - example

Morning: Depart from Landhotel

Start early to make the most of the day. Have a healthy breakfast before your tour. Note Landhotel offers take-away lunch packages.

First Stop: Lava Center

Drive approximately 25 minutes to Hvolsvöllur. Spend around 1-1.5 hours at the Lava Center learning about Iceland’s volcanic activity. Please check their opening hours, you might have to alter the order of the tour and visit the Lava Center on your way back from Reynisfjara.

Second Stop: Seljalandsfoss

Spend about an hour exploring and walking behind the waterfall and a must visit Gljúfrabúi.

Third Stop: Skógafoss

Continue driving for about 20 minutes to Skógafoss. Allocate around an hour to explore the base and hike to the top of the waterfall.

Lunch Break:

Consider stopping in Skógar or Vík for lunch. There are several dining options offering traditional Icelandic food.

Final Stop: Reynisfjara (Black Beach)

Drive approximately 30 minutes to Reynisfjara. Spend around an hour exploring the beach, basalt columns, and sea stacks. Please be cautious about the waves.  There are information lights before you enter the beach which will inform you about status of the waves each day.

Afternoon: Return to Landhotel

Head back to Landhotel, which is about a 1.5 hours drive from Reynisfjara

Images credit to Maps Of Iceland

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