LOCAL TRAVEL GUIDE | SOUTH ICELAND

Rugged landscapes and stunning natural beauty – that’s the essence of Iceland. We packed our new items from our Fusion collection and travelled to this breathtaking country with model Helen Ottars. Born and raised in Iceland, she’s taking us to see hidden gems, far away from the usual tourist spots. Curious about her insider tips? Read our blog! 

BEFORE YOU START YOUR JOURNEY

Iceland is the ultimate destination for adventure, but good preparation is key. Are you thinking about renting a car? We can highly recommend it! In winter, it is even mandatory to travel in a 4x4; you must be at least 25 years old to rent one.

Bear in mind that the days are very short in winter, with only a few hours of daylight each day. Plan your days accordingly! Lastly, as Iceland is an island, and due to many imported products, prices may be higher than what you're used to.

If you want to visit all the highlights we list in this blog, we recommend a road trip of 4 to 7 days. It's perfect if you're not keen on following the usual tourist route (the Golden Circle), but instead are looking for spots that are off the beaten path.

NATURE SHE SEES

SKÓGAFOSS AND SELJALANDSFOSS WATERFALLS – Near the village of Skógar, you’ll find two of Iceland’s most breathtaking waterfalls: Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss. Skógafoss is featured in Game of Thrones and Vikings, where this impressive waterfall served as the stunning backdrop for some unforgettable scenes. Seljalandsfoss is every bit as unique. Here, you can even walk behind the cascading water, an experience that will make you feel as though you've stepped into a fairytale. 

VIK BLACK SAND BEACH – Unlike most beaches, the sand at Black Sand Beach is not yellow or brown – it’s jet black. This remarkable phenomenon is the result of volcanic rocks washing up from the sea and eventually breaking down into tiny pebbles. As Vik's Black Sand Beach tends to be quieter than other nearby beaches, you can enjoy the dramatic coastline in peace. Tip: Visit one of the nearby glaciers for a wonderful hike.

SPOT THE NORTHERN LIGHTS – If you’re in Iceland, there’s a chance you might catch sight of the Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights. The key is to find a dark spot, as you can only see the natural phenomenon when it's dark. Head to an open field with little light pollution and make sure to wear warm clothing – it can get pretty chilly!

WILD HORSES ALONG THE ROUTE – While driving through Iceland’s nature, pay attention to your surroundings. Wild horses roam the area between Reykjavik and Vik, and if you stop for a moment, you may even have the chance to pet them. Take your time – here too, the journey is just as special as the destination.

PLACES SHE VISITS

REYKJAVIK – Iceland’s capital is a must-visit. While the rest of the country is dominated by rugged nature, the capital is modern and vibrant. With its colourful houses, charming cafés, and arty streets, it’s a lovely place to stroll around and immerse yourself in Icelandic culture.

VIK – Around a 3-hour drive from Reykjavik, Vik is a picturesque village, its white church perched on a hill immediately catching the eye. Located by one of Iceland’s famous black sand beaches, it’s the perfect spot for a short walk and to admire the stunning views of the wild coastline.

ACTIVITIES SHE DOES

SELJAVALLALAUG POOL – Though it takes about half an hour to hike there, the Seljavallalaug Pool is well worth the effort. Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding nature, and once you reach the pool, you’ll discover one of Iceland’s oldest swimming pools.

“During our hike to the Seljavallalaug Pool, we met Gabriella, an American woman travelling solo through Iceland. That's the beauty of travel: you always meet unexpected people and hear their stories.”

FEMALE LEGACY TOUR – Discover Iceland through the women who left a significant mark on the island. Iceland has long been at the forefront of gender equality and on this tour, you’ll learn about the women who played key roles in these advancements. You’ll also gain insight into how Icelandic culture has influenced this progress and how women have contributed to the changes that make the country so unique today.

SHOPPING IN REYKJAVIK – Reykjavik is the perfect place to pick up some local souvenirs. As you wander through the city’s smaller streets, you’ll find lots of independent shops that sell locally made products. Visit Farmers Market – owned by Helen’s aunt – for unique, handmade clothing. Or, explore Kirsuberjatréð to discover beautiful handcrafted jewellery.

WHERE SHE SLEEPS

BLACK BEACH SUITES – If you’re heading towards Vik and the black sand beaches, the Black Beach Suites are an ideal place to stay. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and immerse yourself in Iceland’s natural beauty. Experience the charm of this unique island while staying in luxurious comfort. 

LOCAL GUESTHOUSES – Iceland is home to many cosy guesthouses, often run by locals. Not only will you have a comfortable stay, but you’ll also get extra tips from the owners on how to make the most of your time in Iceland.

WHERE SHE EATS

HYGGE – This coffee shop and bakery is the ideal place to start your day. With its modern decor and cosy atmosphere, you can enjoy delicious pastries, fresh sandwiches, and great coffee. Perfect for a relaxed start to your day in Reykjavik.

SKÁL – Looking for somewhere to lunch or dine in Reykjavik? Head to Skál. From grilled squid to perfectly cooked steak – Skál offers a selection of smaller dishes, allowing you to choose how much you want to eat or spend. And of course, there is a wide selection of drinks to complement your meal.

KAFFI KRÚS – After a long walk or a visit to the waterfalls, Kaffi Krús in Selfoss is the perfect place to unwind. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty burger or a freshly baked pizza, they’ve got options for everyone. Feel like a small bite? Take a short break with a cup of coffee and one of their delicious cakes.

RÖNTGEN – To wrap up your trip in Reykjavik, we recommend heading to Röntgen for a drink (or a few more). Whether you prefer a smooth red wine or want to try one of their signature cocktails, the relaxed atmosphere makes it the ideal place to reflect on your Icelandic adventure.

FOODTRUCKS ALONG THE ROAD – Got a busy day ahead with no time for a sit-down lunch? Many locals grab a quick hotdog or snack from one of the many food trucks or service stations along the roads. That way, you can enjoy a tasty meal without losing time for your next adventure.

With all these tips from Helen, you’re guaranteed to have a fantastic road trip through southern Iceland. If you have any questions or want more info on specific activities, just send us a message on Instagram!

GIVEAWAY

Did reading this travel guide make you think: “I want to do that!”? We are sending one lucky winner on this dream trip worth €2000. The giveaway includes flights, accommodation, a rental car, and items of our Fusion collection. Want a chance to win? Leave your details here, and you might soon be exploring the stunning beauty of Iceland!