If you want to experience the real Iceland, venture off the beaten path. While the country’s famous attractions are worth visiting for sure, taking a slight detour or driving a bit further often reveals hidden gems where you might find yourself alone. In most of these places, I was all by myself, or with just a handful of others, a special experience that makes you feel the magic of the country even more. This article offers my tips on what to do and see in Iceland if you’re looking to explore off the beaten track.
One destination you shouldn’t miss if you’re seeking off the beaten path experiences in South Iceland is the Rauðaskál crater. Also known as the “Apple Crater” due to its striking green and red hues, these colors result from iron-rich volcanic rocks and moss growth. This relatively unknown crater is located near the active Hekla volcano and only receives few visitors. During our entire visit, we were the only ones there.
It’s a challenging climb of about half an hour to reach the crater’s rim, but it’s well worth the effort. From the top, you can look into the crater and enjoy a 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape. Note that the crater is accessible only via an F-road (225), so a four-wheel-drive vehicle is necessary.
Every waterfall in Iceland has its own character, and Hjálparfoss stands out as a beautiful double cascade. Here, two streams merge amidst classic Icelandic basalt columns, plunging 20 meters into a serene pool. From the viewing platform, you can admire the falls from a distance, or follow a path down to the small lake below, where it’s also safe to take a refreshing dip. Hjálparfoss is easily accessible by a regular car.
Stóra Dímon is one of South Iceland’s lesser known gems, a solitary 178-meter mountain that plays an important role in saga history and Icelandic folklore. The climb to the summit is short but steep, making it a bit of a challenge. However, if you reach the top, you will be rewarded with great views over the surrounding rivers and mountains.
Hofskirkja is one of Iceland’s last remaining traditional turf churches. Its grass-covered roof blends seamlessly into the landscape. While the church itself is a highlight, you can also explore more traditional turf houses at the nearby Skógar Museum.
Irárfoss, also known as Arjanurfoss, is a slim 41-meter-high waterfall nestled between Hvolsvöllur and Vík. Easily accessible by car, it’s just a five-minute walk from the parking area, and you’re likely to have this serene spot all to yourself. A true off the beaten track destination in Iceland if you love waterfalls.
Bláhylur is a stunning blue crater lake located in Iceland’s rugged highlands, near the more renowned Ljótipollur lake. The lake’s vivid blue waters contrast beautifully with the surrounding dark volcanic terrain. Accessible only via a rough F-road, so make sure you have the right car.
If you’re travelling to or from Landmannalaugar, consider a quick stop at Þjófafoss. Situated on the Þjórsá river, this waterfall is easily reached via a gravel road branching off Route 26. From the parking area, a short walk leads you to a viewing point where you can witness the waterfall’s power from a distance.
A great off the beaten path experience in South Iceland is the hike at Reynisfjall, near the village of Vík. While the nearby Reynisfjara beach attracts many tourists, this trail is often quiet and offers panoramic views of black sand beaches, the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, and the wild southern coastline. In summer, it’s also a great spot for puffin watching. The hike starts at the parking area near Vík í Mýrdal and ascends to the cliff’s summit, covering approximately 7.2 kilometers round trip.
Stjórnarfoss is one of those places where you encounter few other visitors. Although this waterfall isn’t as large as many others in Iceland, its beautiful shape and tranquil atmosphere make it a worthy spot to visit. Stjórnarfoss is located near Kirkjubæjarklaustur, just off the Ring Road in South Iceland.
Sigöldugljúfur might just be the most beautiful destination in Iceland. The beauty here is endless. Also known as the “Valley of Tears,” Sigöldugljúfur is a canyon in the Icelandic highlands where numerous waterfalls of crystal-clear blue water flow along moss-covered cliffs. A short walk of about 1 kilometer from the parking area leads you to the canyon’s edge, where you can enjoy one of Iceland’s most photogenic landscapes. Because this magical place lies along the F208 near Landmannalaugar and is only accessible with a 4×4 vehicle during the summer months, it remains less visited, making it one of Iceland’s off the beaten track destinations.
Sigöldufoss is a hidden waterfall in the Icelandic highlands, situated along the Tungnaá river near the F208. With a height of approximately 10 meters, the water cascades beautifully downward, with the clear blue water creating a contrast against the surrounding lava landscape.
The Commonwealth Farm is a reconstructed turf farm in South Iceland, inspired by the 11th-century settlement of Stöng, which was destroyed by an eruption of the Hekla volcano. Not only is it nice to view the farm from the outside, inside you’ll find a small museum about the area’s history. An entrance fee is required.
Gluggafoss, also known as Merkjárfoss, is a stunning waterfall in South Iceland, named after the natural ‘windows’ (gluggar) carved into the soft tuff rock.
It consists of two parts: one of approximately 44 metres and a second of 8 metres, where the water splits into three streams. Gluggafoss is easily accessible via a short walk from the parking area, allowing you to admire both the upper and lower sections of the waterfall up close.
Although this canyon has been gaining popularity recently, it still remains on this list of Iceland’s off the beaten track destinations. The Múlagljúfur Canyon features dramatic cliffs, verdant valleys, and views of waterfalls like Hangandifoss. A hiking trail leads from the parking lot to the best viewpoint in about 45 minutes.
Grófarlækjarfoss is a waterfall located near the Ring Road between Kirkjubæjarklaustur and Jökulsárlón. This 29 meter high waterfall plunges from a narrow gorge in the basalt rock, surrounded by green hills and purple flowers. Grófarlækjarfoss is situated next to the Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon, and a short walk from the parking area leads you to the waterfall.
Svínafellsjökull, near Skaftafell National Park, is an impressive glacier in southeastern Iceland and a true off the beaten track destination. It’s much quieter here than at nearby glaciers like Sólheimajökull. From the parking area, you can walk to the glacier in about 20 minutes and admire the sharp ice formations and deep crevasses.
Dverghamrar, also known as the Dwarf Cliffs, is a unique formation of hexagonal basalt columns in South Iceland, formed at the end of the Ice Age when sea levels were higher. According to local folklore, these rocks are inhabited by elves and dwarfs. You’ll find Dverghamrar along the Ring Road, about 10 kilometers east of Kirkjubæjarklaustur. A short detour brings you to a parking area from where you can easily admire the formation.
If you’re planning to visit the Skógar Museum, don’t miss the short hike to Kvernufoss. Just a 15-minute walk from the museum, this hidden 40-meter-high waterfall is tucked away in a narrow gorge and offers the experience of walking behind the cascading water, surrounded by lush green cliffs and the sounds of birds.
Looking for a quieter alternative for the famous Blue Lagoon? Hvammsvík Hot Springs is a hidden gem located at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, just a 45-minute drive from Reykjavík. These natural hot springs, situated in the Hvalfjörður fjord, blend geothermal and seawater. The facility features pools of varying sizes and temperatures (36°C to 42°C), a steam cave, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and fjord.
Don’t forget to try the delicious fish soup at the on-site restaurant after your visit. You can book your admission here.
Another must-see off the beaten path is the Eldhraun lava field, the largest of its kind in Iceland. Blanketed in thick moss, this surreal landscape can be easily accessed from Route 1 between Kirkjubæjarklaustur and Vík. Take a detour south from Kirkjubæjarklaustur to drive alongside the lava field, with several spots to stop for walks and photos. Remember to stay on marked paths to protect the delicate moss.
The best way to discover Iceland and its many things to do and see is by car. This way you can stay overnight in beautiful hotels and cozy cabins in nature along the way. Looking for a rental car for your Iceland road trip? Go Car Rental Iceland is a local company with a wide range of vehicles, from compact city cars to 4x4s. They have convenient pick-up locations at both Keflavík airport and in Reykjavík itself, plus 24/7 roadside assistance.
With my exclusive code PTW, you get 5% off your rental car when booking through Go Car Rental Iceland. Make sure you rent a 4×4 car that is also allowed to drive on F-roads, so that you can also visit the off-the-beaten-track destinations.
Want to experience Iceland to the fullest and in an adventurous way? Then book a campervan, giving you ultimate freedom to explore the impressive nature at your own pace. With a camper, you can easily follow the Ring Road that circles the entire island and stop along the way at waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanoes. Campers are equipped with heating, cooking utensils, and plenty of storage space, allowing you to travel comfortably and stay overnight at one of the roughly 200 campsites scattered across the country.
Note: wild camping is forbidden in Iceland, so staying at official campsites is mandatory. This is a useful overview with campsites in Iceland.
Looking for a camper for your trip to Iceland? Go Campers Iceland offers a varied range of campers, from budget-friendly two-person vans to spacious 4×4 models. With unlimited kilometers, you can effortlessly follow the Ring Road or explore the remote highlands. Use the exclusive code PTW when booking for 5% off your adventure if you book through Go Campers .
I’ve tried to compile a selection of Iceland’s lesser-known destinations, unique sights, and special activities for you. I hope this guide has answered your questions and inspired you to explore the hidden gems of Iceland. Combining the well-known highlights with these off the beaten path spots is, in my opinion, the best way to truly experience the diversity of Iceland. Which places are on your itinerary?
Did you enjoy reading this article about Iceland’s off the beaten track destinations and do you want to read more about this amazing country? Have a look in the next Iceland travel guides.
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Are you interested in the world? Do you want to learn more about a country and its culture? Let me take you on a journey with Passport the World.
As a travel reporter, producer and tour guide, I have been traveling around the world for the last 20 years, looking for the most scenic places and stories that are worth sharing. In Passport the World, I am guiding you along scenic and cultural places, cities, art, viewpoints, hiking trails and unique experiences. To help you get the most out of your travels or to just get to know a country and culture better!
Are you interested in the world? Do you want to learn more about a country and its culture? Let me take you on a journey with Passport the World.
As a travel reporter, producer and tour guide, I have been traveling around the world for the last 20 years, looking for the most scenic places and stories that are worth sharing. In Passport the World, I am guiding you along scenic and cultural places, cities, art, viewpoints, hiking trails and unique experiences. To help you get the most out of your travels or to just get to know a country and culture better!
