Iceland is one of the most visually stunning and fascinating places on earth. Many areas of its beautiful arctic scenery are away from major towns and off the beaten track, making them hard to reach without a car. Arranging van or car hire from National Car Rental will allow you to explore the natural wonders of this incredible country.
Things to See and Do in Iceland
Iceland is a place where several tectonic plates meet, allowing you to see volcanic activities, erupting geysers and impressive lava fields. Dramatic scenery is everywhere, from the roaring cascades of the Gullfoss waterfall to exploding geysers like Strokkur. Probably the most famous and most visited site in Iceland is the Blue Lagoon, and a swim in the naturally-heated waters of this geothermal lagoon and spa is a must-see for visitors. The Blue Lagoon lies less than an hour’s drive from the capital of Reykjavik.
A Holiday by Car in Iceland
The easiest way to get around Iceland is by car. Public transport is limited, with no trains at all, and buses and taxis are very expensive. Booking high quality, cheap car hire with National will let you explore the country in comfort. Iceland’s climate is classified as subarctic, offering challenging and unusual driving conditions in an environment that many drivers will be unfamiliar with. It is very important to use a car rental company that will be on hand to help you with any concerns you have. National offers award-winning customer service and will give advice on all aspects of your Iceland trip, from directions and driving tips to choosing the right hire car and making it sure it can cope with all planned terrains.
Famous Road Trips to Take in Iceland
The entire country is encircled by a ring road, called Route 1, that runs for around 828 miles. It is possible to cover the entire distance in a day, but it is far more enjoyable to break up the road trip and make frequent stops. The ring road will take you through Iceland’s breathtaking countryside where you can see mountains, volcanoes, geysers, and waterfalls, and even the Northern Lights if you time it right. It is best to use a 4x4 or a van, as the roads can be slippery and icy. National offers a wide range of cheap 4x4 and van hire, using carefully-maintained vehicles with special adaptations like studded tyres. If the Ring Road is too much of an undertaking, a popular alternative is the Golden Circle. This is a shorter, 190-mile route that departs and ends in Reykjavik, taking in the Thingvellir National Park and the geysers in the Haukadalur geothermal area.