A Full Day in the North
Iceland is renowned for its stunning diversity of landscapes, and the Diamond Circle exemplifies this beauty perfectly. This extensive tour takes you across a vast area in North Iceland, from the icy coastline to the rugged highlands. You’ll journey through emerald valleys, captivating lava fields, striking black sands, serene lake areas, charming fishing villages, and magnificent waterfalls. With the experience lasting about 11 hours, it’s wise to bring along additional clothing (as Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable) and some snacks. However, there will be several stops during the tour where you can purchase food and drinks.
A Diamond in the Rough
Experience both the Atlantic coastline and the magnificent Icelandic highlands in just one day. The adventure begins in Akureyri with a visit to the stunning Goðafoss, known as the Waterfall of the Gods. Then, enjoy a scenic drive through the Lake Myvatn area, complemented by photo stops and a quick visit to a supermarket to grab some snacks for our journey into the highlands. Since our lunchtime destination is far from civilization, it’s advisable to take a packed lunch or purchase food at the grocery store located near Lake Myvatn.
After leaving the lake, we ascend to the highlands, where we will witness Dettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in Europe. This tour brings together beauty and power, showcasing the serene Goðafoss alongside the raw strength of Dettifoss. The sound and force of the thundering glacial river, set against the stark grey landscape, create a truly breathtaking experience.
Continuing on, we visit the Echo Cliffs, known as Hljóðaklettar. Here, you’ll have the chance to walk amidst captivating lava formations and basalt columns, shaped by fire and ice over centuries. The striking contrast between the rugged highlands of Dettifoss and the lush surroundings of the Echo Cliffs is remarkable, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely picnic.
Next, we descend to the Atlantic coast to explore Ásbyrgi Canyon, a well-known landmark and a must-see attraction for visitors. This impressive canyon was formed by massive flash floods resulting from volcanic eruptions beneath Iceland’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull.
Húsavík Village and GeoSea Baths
As we progress along the coastline toward the fishing village of Húsavík, we will keep an eye out for puffins. These quirky birds can be seen nesting along the sea cliffs from May to early August, giving us a good chance of spotting them during the tour.
Upon reaching Húsavík, it’s time to unwind. We highly recommend a visit to the newly opened GeoSea geothermal sea baths. If relaxation isn’t your preference, feel free to explore the village, enjoy a coffee, or visit one of the local museums. The Whale Museum, in particular, is a fascinating and educational experience that is also budget-friendly. After exploring Húsavík, we’ll enjoy a scenic, relaxing drive back to Akureyri, lasting just under an hour.
Join Us for an Unforgettable Day in the North
If this brief overview of the Diamond Circle Classic tour piques your interest, we invite you to join us! Our small group tours ensure personalized service, flexibility, and many intriguing stops and nature walks led by an experienced local guide. You can check availability and book your adventure here.
The post The Diamond Circle appeared first on Saga Travel.
