Epic Iceland Ring Road Adventure: Day 2 Highlights from Dyrhólaey to Jökulsárlón + Essential Driving Tips
After exploring Iceland's Golden Circle with its waterfalls, geysers, and Icelandic horses, we embarked on day two along the iconic Ring Road. During breakfast at our charming farmstay, the owner shared a map highlighting a detour just before Vík—a coastal road leading to spectacular rock formations. Eager for authentic experiences, we followed her recommendation.
It proved unforgettable: Dyrhólaey's dramatic cliffs and pounding waves against the stormy shore created a mesmerizing start. (Tip: Heading to Vík? Turn left onto Road 218 beforehand. Prime puffin-spotting territory, though we missed them.)
Vík, a quaint fishing village, offers a standout black sand beach made from volcanic ash—evidence of Iceland's 130+ active volcanoes. A must-stop.
The landscape shifted dramatically to Eldhraun, Iceland's largest moss-covered lava field from the 1783–1784 Laki eruption. Driving through this otherworldly expanse of green-mantled rocks felt surreal, showcasing nature's transformative power.
Next, Skeiðarársandur, the world's largest glacial sand plain at 1,300 km² of volcanic sand, stretched eerily empty under gray skies—no settlements, just vast desolation.
This led to Skaftafell National Park, veiled in clouds but ringed by alpine peaks. Nearby, Skaftafellsjökull glacier guided us to Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, Iceland's crown jewel. Floating blue icebergs captivated me—my trip highlight (detailed in a dedicated guide).
Across the road, Diamond Beach gleams with icebergs strewn on black sands, washed from the lagoon into the sea.
By day's end, endless photo stops confirmed: six days on the Ring Road meant non-stop wonders—fjords, sands, waterfalls, glaciers.
Before Northern Iceland in Part III, note our Eskifjörður stay on Reyðarfjörður, Eastern Iceland's longest fjord.
Our Highlights of Iceland self-drive tour provided vouchers for diverse lodging—B&Bs, hotels, farmstays—curated by experts.
Eskifjörður's waterfront cottage stole the show: full kitchen, outdoor hot tub for post-drive relaxation.
A vibrant sunset over the fjord nearly tempted us to linger, whale-watching in tow.
Pressing on via Almannaskard tunnel to Mývatn peninsula—continued in Part III.
Expert Tips for Driving Iceland's Ring Road
No true highways here
Expect two-lane roads, often single-lane on bridges. Adhere to speed limits and scan for oncoming traffic. Grab the free Around Iceland brochure from tourist centers/hotels—marks fuel, restrooms, and more.
Download the Iceland Roads App
Comprehensive road, dining, sights info. Available for Android and iOS.
GPS alone may fall short
Paper maps or Google Maps offer better overviews. Try this detailed Iceland Road Guide (includes app).
Fuel up proactively
Stations are sparse in rural stretches—use maps to plan.
Choose reputable rentals
Companies like Europcar provide emergency contacts nationwide—vital for rugged conditions.
4WD not always needed
A standard VW handled gravel roads fine for us.
Automatic if preferred
Specify when booking.
Weather whiplash
Rain to sun in hours—drive through it.
Planning your Iceland road trip? See: Budget Iceland Travel Guide: Essential Prep Tips
