Iceland’s Secret Street Journey That Outshines the Golden Circle

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Iceland’s Golden Circle might be the nation’s most well-known street journey, however for those who’re the type of traveller who likes taking the scenic route, the Diamond Circle is your dream detour. This lesser-known loop in North Iceland has equally jaw-dropping geology – however likelihood is, you’ll share it with far fewer tour buses! Discover volcanic landscapes, epic waterfalls, effervescent geothermal fields, and even an opportunity to identify just a few whales. It’s distant, it’s rugged, and it’s ridiculously lovely — all of the issues Iceland does greatest!

To essentially get essentially the most out of a Diamond Circle street journey, you’ll need the liberty to go off the crushed path and linger within the spots that intrigue you essentially the most. The easiest way to do this? Skip the lodges and as a substitute hire a 4×4 campervan in Iceland, which gives you whole freedom and suppleness to roam at your personal tempo. Plus, you’ll be waking up proper subsequent to these magical landscapes!

What’s the Diamond Circle Route?

The Diamond Circle is a 250km driving route in North Iceland, beginning and ending close to Lake Mývatn. The route connects 5 main pure points of interest: Lake Mývatn, Goðafoss waterfall, Húsavík, Ásbyrgi canyon, and Dettifoss waterfall. This fairly quick street journey gives a compact however numerous snapshot of Iceland’s geological and pure wonders, from volcanic craters and geothermal fields to highly effective waterfalls and coastal cliffs.

Not like the Golden Circle, which is positioned within the southwest and sees heavy vacationer visitors, the Diamond Circle is quieter and extra distant, good for these looking for a extra “off-grid” journey. A lot of the route is paved and simply accessible in summer season months, although some sections (particularly these resulting in Dettifoss) could require a 4×4, notably outdoors the excessive season.

How a lot time do it’s worthwhile to drive the Diamond Circle?

Technically, you possibly can do the entire loop in a day, however the place’s the enjoyable in dashing by way of these gorgeous landscapes? To soak all of it in — the sights, the new springs, the otherworldly lava fields — give your self not less than two days for the Diamond Circle street journey. Three or 4 is even higher if you wish to linger, hike, or detour into the highlands.

Bonus: for those who’re travelling in summer season, you’ve obtained the Midnight Solar in your facet. Which means lengthy, golden hours to discover with out worrying about beating the darkness. On the flip facet, for those who’re travelling throughout winter, you’ll have fewer hours of daylight, so you might must unfold this journey over extra days in an effort to see the whole lot!

Recommended Itinerary for the Diamond Circle in Iceland

Cease 1: Lake Mývatn

This volcanic lake appears like one thing straight out of a sci-fi movie: a panorama crammed with effervescent mud pots, pseudocraters, and eerie lava formations. Wander by way of Dimmuborgir’s “darkish castles,” soak on the Mývatn Nature Baths (suppose Blue Lagoon with out the crowds), and hold a watch out for skittering arctic foxes and swooping birds.

Cease 2: Goðafoss Waterfall

A brief drive west brings you to the legendary Goðafoss, or “Waterfall of the Gods.” Legend says the identify comes from a Viking chieftain tossing his statues of Norse gods into the falls after changing to Christianity – dramatic a lot?! The legend is most definitely simply that, however it’s story nonetheless! Convey a water-proof jacket and your greatest slow-shutter images sport.

Cease 3: GeoSea Baths & Húsavík

Húsavíkis the whale watching capital of Iceland. This cute and vibrant coastal city pairs charming harbour life with the luxurious GeoSea sea baths. Think about soaking in heat, mineral-rich seawater as you gaze out at snow-dusted peaks and ocean swells. Summer season is the most effective time for whale watching, notably March to November –  e-book a ship tour for the possibility to identify minke whales, humpback whales, dolphins, puffins, and extra! Visiting outdoors of the summer season season? Don’t panic – you possibly can nonetheless spot whales in winter, too: excursions run all through October and November. 

Cease 4: Ásbyrgi Canyon

This horseshoe-shaped glacial canyon is claimed to be the hoofprint of Sleipnir, Odin’s eight-legged horse (Icelandic myths are by no means uninteresting!). Right here, the towering cliffs shelter peaceable forests –  good for a serene stroll or picnic. It’s a really perfect place to press pause and breathe all of it in.

Cease 5: Dettifoss Waterfall

If Goðafoss is the swish ballerina of waterfalls, Dettifoss is the rock ’n’ roll headliner. It’s Europe’s strongest waterfall, and standing beside it’s like feeling the earth roar. Simply don’t stand too shut – the mist soaks the whole lot!

Cease 6: Again to Mývatn

Lastly, loop again towards Mývatn to relaxation your legs – and perhaps squeeze in a single final soak on the Nature Baths earlier than ending your journey. Should you’ve obtained time, take a look at the Krafla caldera and Víti crater, each remnants of Iceland’s fiery coronary heart. 

Map of the Diamond Circle Route in Iceland

Winter Driving Recommendation for the Diamond Circle

Winter transforms the Diamond Circle right into a snow-dusted dreamscape — however it comes with further challenges, so be sure that to do your analysis and be ready. Listed here are just a few high suggestions earlier than you go:

All the time examine street circumstances through umferdin.is

A 4×4 is crucial. 

Drive with studded winter tyres (examine along with your rental company when reserving)

Pack emergency provides, together with snacks and water.

Climate and street circumstances can change quick: flexibility is your greatest journey buddy! 

Some roads, like these to Dettifoss through Route 864, could also be closed as a result of snow and ice. In these circumstances, guided tremendous jeep excursions generally is a protected and epic different.

Are you planning a street journey round Iceland’s Diamond Circle? Let me know within the feedback beneath!