This country is absolutely stunning… it is difficult to choose where the most breathtaking spots are!
But I have selected for you my top 15 best Iceland Landscapes, that moved me the most!
They include waterfalls, craters, lava fields, icebergs and more… the best of Iceland scenery.
Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Iceland:
My favorite platform to rent a car in Iceland: DiscoverCars
The unmissable boat tour: Whale Watching
Fun activity: Swimming in Silfra Fissure
My favorite places to stay:
- Reykjavik: see best rated hotels – e.g. Vintage Boutique Hotel
- Lake Myvatn: see best rated hotels – e.g. Hotel Laxa
- Vik area: see best rated hotels – e.g. Hotel Vik i Myrdal
#1 – Diamond Beach – Unique Iceland Landscape
What is Jokulsarlon Beach…
Jokulsarlon is known for its large glacial lagoon with icebergs floating around. Most people stop there. But many do not venture on the other side of Road 1 towards the sea where some of those icebergs are pushed by on the black sand beach by the waves.
Why I loved it…
Big icebergs white, blue and black agains the black sand and with waves crashing on them… who would not be mesmerized? A truly unique Iceland Landscape !
Learn More…
Discover more photos, info and some planning tips on my dedicated article about Jokulsarlon Beach
#2 – Dimmuborgir – Iceland scenery with lava
What is Dimmuborgir..
There are many lava fields in Iceland, but none of them are like Dimmuborgir located near Lake Myvatn. The formations you can admire in that field are intricate and have triggered the creation of many stories with elves, trolls and other mystical creatures.
Why I loved it…
Crazy shapes that trigger your imaginations… trolls, witches you can all discover them in those rocks. A walk back in time during which I kept singing the generic of Denver, the last dinosaur…
Learn More…
Discover more photos, info and some planning tips on my dedicated article about Dimmuborgir
#3 – Unnamed viewpoint on F208 – 4WD only
What is F208…
F208, also called Fjallabaksleid Nyrdi, is a 4WD access only road that leaves the Ring Road along the South Coast and drives through the Central highlands reaching the famous Landmannalaugar area. From the North it starts at the powerplant and goes through a drier area before reaching Landmannalaugar.
Why I loved it…
This particular viewpoint just made my heart stop. I am not sure why: maybe the contrast of the sharp pointy mountains against the soft laces of the river, or their dark black against the shiny green… who knows… I just ADORE this landscape
Learn More…
Discover more photos, info and some planning tips on my dedicated article about the 4WD Track F208
Need to rent a car in Iceland?
My tips:
- Compare prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
- Prefer a compact car for the narrow streets in villages
- Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind!
- Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!
#4 – Kirkjufell – a magical place!
What is Kirkjufell…
Located just two and a half hour drive from Reykjavik, on the North Coast of Snaefellsness peninsula, Kirkjufell and its waterfall Kirkjufellsfoss have become an Icelandic icon.
Why I loved it…
There is something magical about this mountain. You can get your eyes of it and feel so peaceful. I really can’t explain.
Learn More…
Discover more photos, info and some planning tips on my dedicated article about Kirkjufell and its waterfall
#5 – Krafla Viti, another world
About Krafla Viti…
Krafla Viti is a volcanic crater in the north of Iceland near the lake Myvatn. It is located in an area of intense geothermal activity. It is possible to walk around its rim with impressive views over the area.
Why in the Top 10 ‘Iceland Landscapes’?
The landscapes from the edge of the crater are magical. The water of an intense color, the multicolored mountains around are intensified, the impression to feel very small in front of the Mother Nature…
To know more…
Lots of pictures and practical information in my article dedicated to Krafla Viti.
#6 – Vestrahorn
What is Vestrahorn…
Vestrahorn is a dramatic spot where vertiginous cliffs meet a flat black sand beach. It is 454m high and sometimes called Batman Mountain.
Why I loved it…
Sharp cliffs against a flat black sand beach, paradise for those who love contrast. Plus on the day I was there, a cloud was stuck on top of the mountain.
Learn More…
Discover more photos, info and some planning tips on my dedicated article about Vestrahorn Iceland
#7 – Myvatn Pseudocraters – North Iceland Landscape
What are the pseudo-craters…
The Myvatn pseudocraters were formed as lava entered a large lake (a precursor of Lake Myvatn), trapping its wet sediment underneath (they are also known as rootless cones). Skútustadagígar is the area around the pond Stakholstjorn where the famous pseudocraters can be found
Why I loved it…
Their shapes are so round and perfect! Plus, early morning, I was lucky to admire them with their reflection on the pond nearby Lake Myvatn 🙂 What a fantastic sight.
Learn More…
Discover more photos, info and some planning tips on my dedicated article about the pseudo-craters of Lake Myvatn
What is Trollaskagi..
Trollaskagi is a peninsula North West of Akureyri whose name means “peninsula of the troll”. It is a very mountainous places with deep valleys carved but the glaciers.
Why I loved it…
Beautiful mountains and lake, nobody on the Road… This spot on the left was the highlight of my last day in Iceland. A last minute detour that I am so glad I made! Completely off the beaten track
Learn More…
Discover more photos, info and some planning tips on my dedicated article about the Trollaskagi peninsula
To plan your itinerary, you can check out:
- My general post about planning an Iceland road trip
- My suggested itineraries for 5 days in Iceland
- My suggested for 7 days in Iceland itineraries
- My 4 itineraries to spend 10 days in Iceland
- And my favorite itinerary for 14 days around Iceland
- or get one of my practical eBooks to help you plan your ideal itinerary:
Plan your dream trip to Iceland with my guides!
- 8 easy-to-plan maps
- 100+ pre-selected locations
- GPS coordinates
- Useful planning tips
- 130+ large photos
- 2 easy-to-plan maps
- 30 stops, 10 detours
- GPS coordinates
- Useful planning tips
- 70+ large photos
#9 – Sigoldugljufur – stunning Iceland scenery (4WD only)
What is Sigoldugljufur..
The canyon used to be filled by the river Tungnaá. The water from the lake is now forced into conducts to the power plant. But the canyon is still there for our pleasure.
Why I loved it…
It is a well kept secret that we found by luck. The shape of the canyon mixed with the line of small falls made for an incredible landscape.
Learn More…
Discover more photos, info and some planning tips on my dedicated article about the Sigoldugljufur canyon
#10 – Skogafoss waterfall
About Skogafoss…
One of the must-see waterfalls on Route 1. A giant double curtain that you can get very close to.
Why in my Top 15 ?
One of my favorite waterfalls in Iceland. It is true that there are more tortuous and powerful ones.But the straight and voluminous waterfall on 60m high and 25m wide is impressive!
Learn more
See more pictures in my article about Skogafoss
#11 – Fjallsarlon glacial lagoon
About Fjallsarlon
A lagoon at the foot of a glacier with beautiful mountains and sometimes icebergs.
Why in my Top 15?
Everyone rushes to Jokusarlon. But, personally, I prefer its little brother Jokulsarlon.
There are less tourists and we are much closer to the glacier.
On the other hand, there are not always many icebergs.
Learn more
See more pictures in my article about Fjallsarlon
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#12 – Vidgelmir lava cave
About Vidgelmir
Vidgelmir is my favorite lava cave in Iceland. It is a long lava tunnel, the biggest in Iceland. It is quite impressive because of its size: 1585m long.
Moreover, in its biggest section, it is more than 16m wide and almost 16m high.
Why in my Top 15?
The detour is really worth it, with many fascinating shapes in the lava and friendly guides. You enter the fire world of Iceland.
And if you visit in winter, you’ll get ice stalagmites as well!
Learn more
See more photos in my article about the best lava caves in Iceland.
#13 – Hverir – a Martian landscape?
About Hverir
Geothermal area in the north of Iceland at the foot of the Namafjall mountain.
You will find there fumaroles and bubbling mud.
Why in my Top 15?
I love geothermal areas. And this one in Hverir is really special:
- The landscape is dramatic all around with hardened lava fields and mountains
- The orange color is vibrant and contrasts with the grey mud
- The crevasses are cool for the photo
- It feels like being on Mars!
Read more
See more pictures in my article about Hverir
Where to stay in Iceland?
My favorites:
- Reykjavik, capital city: see best rated accommodations – or my article on where to stay
- Selfoss, between Golden Circle and South Coast: see best rated accommodations
- Vik, near waterfalls and glaciers: see best rated accommodations
- Höfn, gateway to the East fjords: see best rated accommodations
- Egilsstadir, between fjords and North Iceland: see best rated accommodations
- Reykjahlid, for the wonders of Lake Myvatn: see best rated accommodations
- Akureyri, capital of the North: see best rated accommodations
- Grundarfjordur, on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula: see best rated accommodations
#14 – Berserkjahraun (4WD recommended)
About Berserkjahraun
This is one of the most beautiful lava fields in Iceland with an interesting saga.
You will find hardened old lava covered with moss, mountains behind and a small lake.
Why in my Top 15?
I liked this road and lava field so much that I went there 2 days in a row!
Read more about it
See more pictures in my article about Berserkjahraun
#15 – Gullfoss – impressive waterfall
What is Gullfoss…
Gullfoss is and iconic waterfall on the Hvítá river which is fed by Icelands second biggest glacier, the Langjökull. The river rushes southward but about one kilometre above the falls it turns sharply to the right and flows down into the 32m crevice in two stages. It is part of the famous Golden Circle Iceland.
Why I loved it…
The shape is very original with small steps followed by a big drop. You can walk right next to it and fell its power! Sadly it was not a good day for photography and on this picture it does not look as phenomenal as it is.
Learn More…
Discover more photos, info and some planning tips on my dedicated article about the Gullfoss waterfall
About my selection of the Best Iceland Landscapes
Before I share the last 5 landscapes, here are a few pieces of info about this list.
Iceland is often referred to as the “Land of fire and ice“. And for good reasons. Typical landscapes in Iceland include:
- Landscapes by Ice: impressive glaciers, fjords shaped by them, sparkling icebergs and powerful waterfalls from the melting ice
- Landscapes by Earth’s fire: Volcanoes, pseudo-craters, Basalt cliffs and sea stack from the cooling lava, giant lava fields and black sand beach
Every minute of your Iceland road trip will be filled with ‘WOWs’. I think there was only 30min of driving during my whole time there when I was not mesmerized by all the scenery around me.
Choosing the 10 best Iceland Landscapes
As I told you, everywhere is fascinating. It was difficult to narrow down to 10. But those Icelandic landscapes really made my heart jump.
However if you want, you can find more ideas on my online destination guide to Iceland.
Best Iceland Landscapes Map
To help you get oriented, here is a map with the location of my old selection of top 10:
All these landscapes are included in my Travel Guide eBook that helps you easily plan your road trip:
Plan your dream trip in Iceland thanks to my guide
- 8 maps to easily plan your itinerary
- 100+ pre-selected locations
- GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
- Tips to make the most of your time
- 130+ original photos to help you choose
Iceland Landscape Photography
It is so beautiful that you almost just have to click – But if you want a bit more you can check my 8 tips to improve your photos of Iceland.
#5 – Hafragilsfoss – canyon landscape
What is Hafragilsfoss…
Hagragilsfoss is name after the Hafragil ravine created by the Jokulsa river. The waterfall is 27 meters high (79 feet), 91 meters wide (299 feet).
Why I loved it…
Most people chose their neighbours Dettifoss and Selfoss. But I loved how, for this one, I was able to enjoy the shape and colors of the full canyon with the waterfall in the middle.
Learn More…
Discover more photos, info and some planning tips on my dedicated article about the Hafragilsfoss waterfall
Want to see more of the best Iceland has to offer?
- Tips to plan your Iceland road trip – read article
- Tips to rent a car and drive around Iceland – read article
- Itinerary suggestions – read article
- 45 Most beautiful landscapes in Iceland in pictures – read article
- The best stops on the Ring Road – read article
- The best locations off the beaten path around Iceland – read article
- 21 Most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland – read article
- 5 best lava fields in Iceland – read article
- The 5 most beautiful black sand beaches in Iceland – read article
Planning a trip to Iceland?
Check out my travel guide to help you plan – All the locations listed in this article and more are included in it.
Plan your dream trip in Iceland thanks to my guide
- 8 maps to easily plan your itinerary
- 100+ pre-selected locations
- GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
- Tips to make the most of your time
- 130+ original photos to help you choose
And keep track of your own trip!
Iceland Landscapes Winter
In Winter the Icelandic scenery is also fascinating:
- Some waterfalls may be frozen
- Snow might cover the Black sand
- Magical Ice caves are forming
- Foxes are turning white
- And nights are longer giving you more chances to see the Northern lights!
You can learn more on my article about the Iceland Scenery in Winter.
Want to see more of Iceland’s beauty?
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Dreaming of visiting Iceland, awesome photos btw. 🙂
Thanks Bilyana. It is such a unique place to see! I hope you get there soon 🙂
Very nice selection of landscape (and amazing picture!!)! This page especially will really help me and my friend plan our itinerary for our trip in Iceland. By the way, were all these place accessible by F roads? Because we were wondering if we need to rent a 4 wheels :S? Also did you use a drone to take your picture, if not you’re very good finding the best spots to capture global view of scenery!!
Thanks Stephany
No drones 🙂 I don’t want to use a drone, because I want people to imagine what they can see, and they will never be able to admire what drones capture.
1 and 8 are on F-roads where 4WD is mandatory.
#1 is a difficult F-road with river crossing.
#8 is not that difficult if driving the F-road from the North
I wish you wonderful travels!