Húsavík Farmhouse, N Iceland

Discovered a wonderful coastal trailride at our farmhouse for the night located outside the quaint town of Husavik. Icelandic horses are both cute and hardy, a special breed known for their agreeable nature and special gaits. They are the only horses allowed in Iceland.

Husavik, NE Iceland

Whale-watching trips leave from this picturesque dock. The wooden church in town was built in 1907 in the Swiss Chalet style.

Akureyri, N Iceland

Akureyri is the second largest city in Iceland and a pleasant place to hang out and visit the hot dog stand.

Hengifoss Waterfall and Guesthouse

Proceeding north, diverted from the Ring Road to another dramatic waterfall hike and the quaint nearby Hengifoss Guesthouse with a perfectly situated tree in the cozy wood dining room. Baked Icelandic cod fresh and delicious. 

Höfn, SE Icelandic fishing town

The gorgeous scenery does not stop. Lucky to have several sunny days sprinkled throughout our two week trip in Iceland during late June and early July. It goes without saying that weather can make or break this vacation! Fresh langostino thin crust pizza at Ishusid Pizzeria on the waterfront. 

Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon, SE Iceland

Reserve your spot on an amphibious duck-boat vehicle to get up close to spectacular icebergs floating in the lagoon. If you are driving counterclockwise on Ring Road, drive from the nearby national park to the glacial lagoon on the same day with careful planning.

Skaftafell and Vatnajökull National Park

Wonderful day hiking to see Iceland's (and Europe's) largest glacier.

Elves, yes at Skógar Museum, Vik

Sod-roofed homes originally designed from the Viking era provide shelter from the harsh northern elements. Elves provide protection too, if proper respect has been shown. (“Eurovision Song Contest” movie with Will Farrell set partially in Husavik in the north is a quirky intro to Iceland.)

The Ring Road

After the Golden Circle, we drove counter clockwise around the Ring Road making hotel reservations at key stopping points around the country. Dramatic landscapes (some you may have seen in The Game of Thrones series) and beautiful waterfalls are all along the route. Don't rush this drive, one, for safety, and two, because the entire country is like a national park. Bring food for picnics or snacks along your journey. There are few places to stop for lunch outside the towns, and for dinner, some restaurants are small and fully booked.