Do you dream of discovering Iceland away from the crowds and crowded sites? The good news is that the island still harbors many unspoiled gems, often overlooked by conventional itineraries. Nothing is ever completely “secret”, of course, but these places offer a much quieter and more authentic atmosphere, ideal for fully savoring the Icelandic magic.
Raw volcanoes, panoramic roads, majestic canyons, waterfalls hidden in nature… Get ready to explore a more intimate Iceland, where every detour reveals a new surprise!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
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Secret places in Iceland: facts, selection, map
Can we really still think outside the box? Not entirely: no place is really secret, and it all depends on individual perception. With tourism booming in Iceland, even once-quiet areas are seeing more visitors. The “hidden gems” are no longer so hidden.
Nevertheless, we’ve selected some of the more confidential places, where buses don’t stop and where we haven’t come across many people – some accessible by conventional car, others reserved for 4WD. By sharing them with you, they won’t remain hidden. That’s why your role is essential. We therefore invite you to explore them with respect, to stay on the trails, to leave no trace and to contribute to the protection of these unique places so that those who come after you will enjoy discovering them just as much.
Here’s a map of the places we’ve selected for you to discover:
1. Trollaskagi Peninsula
Why do we love it?
Tröllaskagi is a peninsula northwest of Akureyri, whose name means “troll peninsula”. We fell in love with this mountainous region, shaped by deep glacial valleys. Driving alone amidst these grandiose panoramas, with the occasional line of snow-capped peaks on the horizon, was an impromptu detour that we enjoyed from start to finish. Here, the landscapes offer a real sense of isolation, far from the usual tourist itineraries.
Location
- On Iceland’s north coast
- Between Saudárkrókur and Akureyri
Useful tips
- Accessible with normal car (2WD)
- Unpaved road all the way, but without difficulties
- Allow time for photo stops
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2. Berserkjahraun lava field
Why do we love it?
Berserkjahraun is a track in the north of the Snæfellsnes peninsula, which leaves Route 54 to cross a lava field. Few travelers venture here, yet it leads to some absolutely stunning scenery: tranquil lakes, carpets of bright green moss on black lava, jagged fjords and almost unreal-shaped mountains. We loved this diversity of scenery, which offers a concentration of Iceland’s wilderness… with the possible exception of a glacier!
Location
- West of Iceland
- North of the Snaefellsnes peninsula
- Along Route 54
Useful tips
- Normal car acceptable but 4WD more comfortable
- A bumpy but relatively easy road
- Drive slowly to enjoy the view and stop more easily
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On Route 1, no 4WD required, off Route 1, it depends on your plans.
3. Runway F208, south of the island
Why do we love it?
The F208 is a 4WD track that leaves the main No. 1 road on the south coast and crosses the Central Highlands to Landmannalaugar. It’s a truly off-the-beaten-track experience, offering a succession of breathtaking landscapes. We were fascinated by the contrast between the sharp peaks of the mountains and the gentle meandering of the rivers, as well as by the stunning palette of colors that adorns each valley. No photograph can really capture the magic of this journey!
Location
- South of the island
- Crossing the Central Highlands
Useful tips
- 4WD only
- The best part is the south of Route F208
- Involves river crossings
- Most tours take the northern route to the Highlands. So, if you want to enjoy it, you’ll have to book a private tour in a Super Jeep.
WHERE TO STAY IN Iceland
Our independent picks for the accommodation of your dreams:
- Where to stay in Iceland (coming soon)
- Where to sleep in Reykjavik (coming soon)
- Best 5-star hotels (coming soon)
- Where to sleep on the South Coast (coming soon)
- Where to sleep on the Golden Circle (coming soon)
- Where to sleep on the Snaefellsnes peninsula
4. Leirhnjúkur’s steaming lava field
Why do we love it?
Located in the north of Iceland, just a short drive from Mývatn, this place seems to have stepped out of another world. The lava field is still smoking, while a mountain of rhyolite and other geothermal formations complete the fascinating landscape. Access is fairly straightforward, which means you’ll come across a few visitors, but the place remains far less crowded than sites like Hverir or Dimmuborgir. The walking tour is easy and allows you to explore each area at your own pace.
Location
- Northeast Iceland
- Near the volcanic lake of Mývatn
- Close to Route 1
Useful tips
- Accessible with normal car (2WD)
- On-site parking
- Easy walking on groomed trails
- Allow 1 to 2 hours for the tour
5. Sigöldugljúfur canyon
Why do we love it?
Sigöldugljúfur is a canyon once traversed by the Tungnaá River. Today, the lake’s water is diverted to pipes leading to the hydroelectric power station, but the canyon retains all its charm. Located off a 4WD track, it stays away from the crowds. We were won over: a spectacular canyon, punctuated by numerous small waterfalls, and not a single tourist in sight. We only wish we’d stayed overnight to watch the sun rise and set in this incredible setting.
Location
- South Iceland
- Along a portion of the F208 runway
Useful tips
- 4WD required
- If you’re coming from the north on the F208, the route isn’t too difficult.
- Stop at the roadside then walk for about 30min.
UNFORGETTABLE ACTIVITIES IN Iceland
- Swimming in the Silfra fissure
- Horseback riding
- Hiking on a glacier
- Whale watching (from Reykjavik, Husavik or Akureyri)
6. Aldeyjarfoss waterfall
Why do we love it?
Aldeyjarfoss is a lesser-known waterfall in northern Iceland, accessible via Trail 842 for around 40km from Godafoss. Its narrow 20m waterfall plunges into a vast pool, but it’s above all its setting that makes it exceptional. In contrast to the classic beauty of Cascade Godafoss, Aldeyjarfoss is wild and rugged, surrounded by spectacular basalt columns and an arid, almost lunar landscape. It’s like landing on another planet!
Location
- North of Iceland
- About 40km from Cascade Godafoss
- Along Route F26 inland
Useful tips
- Accessible by normal car (2WD) for most of the route
- 4WD mandatory for the last 5 minutes on Route F26
- On-site parking
- 10-15min walk to the waterfall from the parking lot
7. The village of Seydisfjordur
Why do we love it?
Seydisfjordur is a charming town nestled between Mount Bjólfur (1085 m) and Mount Strandartindur (1010 m). Although it’s not totally off the beaten track, its location, a slight detour off circular road no. 1, lends it a rare tranquility. The descent to the fjord offers spectacular panoramas, while the changing light on the mountains creates a unique atmosphere. A place to discover, splendid in both winter and summer!
Location
- North of Iceland
- North of the Trollaskagi Peninsula
Useful tips
- Accessible with normal car (2WD)
- Easy, panoramic driving
8. Hafragilsfoss waterfall
Why do we love it?
Almost all visitors to northern Iceland stop to admire the mighty Cascade Dettifoss, but few continue north to discover the superb Cascade Hafragilsfoss. But it’s well worth the detour: although it’s not possible to get up close, the view of the surrounding canyon is absolutely spectacular, and left us with an unforgettable memory.
Location
- North of Iceland
- North of Cascade Dettifoss
Useful tips
- Accessible with normal car (2WD)
- Unsealed road
- Combine with a visit to the Dettifoss waterfall
9. Fjadargljufur Canyon
Why do we love it?
Fjadargljufur, along Iceland’s southern coast, is an amazingly shaped canyon, reminiscent of delicate feathers. An easy walk takes 5 minutes, or up to 1 hour if you want to reach the Mógarfoss waterfall at the end of the trail. Access is easy, so you’ll bump into other visitors, but the site remains much less crowded than neighboring attractions… even if its popularity has increased since the Justin Bieber video. Its winding geometry and numerous vantage points make it an ideal playground for photographers, offering a different, spectacular perspective at every angle.
Location
- South Iceland
- Along circular route n°1
Useful tips
- Accessible with normal car (2WD)
- On-site parking
- Easy walk from 5min to 1h
- Mogarfoss waterfall at the end of the trail
- Popularity on the rise in 2019
10. Hekla Volcano
Why do we love it?
Peaking at 1,491m, Hekla is one of Iceland’s most famous active volcanoes, nicknamed the “gateway to hell” in the Middle Ages. We loved exploring it in a super jeep, enjoying spectacular views over an ocean of mountains. The sensation of walking through an active volcano, combined with the impressive panoramic views, makes the experience both exhilarating and unforgettable!
Location
- Southwest Iceland
- Inland from the south coast
Useful tips
- 4WD mandatory
- Super Jeep day trips from Reykjavik combined with Landmannalaugar
- Other excursions mention Hekla, but you can only see it from a distance
11. The glacial valley of Thórsmörk
Why do we love it?
Thórsmörk is a nature reserve in southern Iceland, popular with locals and travelers alike for its countless hiking trails. This deep valley, surrounded by rugged mountains and enclosed by the Tindfjallajökull and Eyjafjallajökull glaciers, is traversed by powerful glacial rivers that enhance its wild character. Getting there is an adventure in itself. The landscape is in stark contrast to the rest of Iceland: here, you’ll find trees, deep shades of green and, in autumn, absolutely magnificent colors.
Location
- Southwest Iceland
- Between the Tindfjallajökull and Eyjafjallajökull glaciers
Useful tips
- 4WD mandatory
- Very difficult trail with numerous river crossings (one of them very powerful).
- Super Jeep excursions from Reykjavik available, combined with Landmannalaugar and Hekla
12. Thjofafoss waterfall
Why do we love it?
Truly off the beaten track, Thjofafoss is a waterfall surrounded by a vast lava field, where a few purplish rocks add a singular touch to the landscape. We particularly like its isolation: it’s not on any of the classic tourist itineraries, making it an authentic place, ideal for travelers seeking adventure and tranquility.
Location
- Southeast Iceland
- Along Route 1, which circles the island
Useful tips
- 4WD mandatory
- Very good sense of direction required
- For experienced adventurers
13. West Iceland fjords
Why do we love them?
The Western Fjords are one of Iceland’s most isolated regions, where nature remains largely untouched. It’s a long way to get there, which explains why few travelers venture out. Those who make the effort are rewarded with remarkable diversity: majestic fjords, beaches, waterfalls, lagoons and wildlife. A region in a class of its own, ideal for those who want to discover a more untouched and unspoilt Iceland.
Location
- West of Iceland
Useful tips
- Accessible with normal car (2WD)
- Mountain roads
- Unspoilt wilderness
- Isolated and remote areas
- Long journey from Iceland’s tourist spots
14. Isolated hiking trails
Why do we love them?
In Iceland, the changeable weather makes every hike a challenge – and that’s what makes it so adventurous. As few travelers embark on long walks, you can often enjoy spectacular scenery almost in solitude. Our favorites include Háifoss waterfall, Glymur waterfall, the Viknaslodir hiking area and Mount Herkubreid. Perfect places for those who want to discover Iceland in a different way.
Location
- All over Iceland
Useful tips
- Suitable hiking equipment mandatory
- Check the weather before you leave
- Tell someone about your itinerary
- Provide sufficient food and water
15. The Landmannalaugar volcanic region
Why do we love it?
A breathtaking landscape in the heart of the Highlands, Landmannalaugar offers vibrantly colored mountains and natural hot springs. Although only accessible by 4WD, the site attracts many visitors: off-road, yes, but not totally off the beaten track. Nevertheless, we’ve included it in this list, as many travelers discover it too late in their planning. It’s best to plan ahead, especially as it may be necessary to book an excursion. It’s an extraordinarily picturesque destination, but you can’t enjoy it alone.
Location
- Southwest Iceland
- In the Central Highlands
Useful tips
- 4WD mandatory
- At least one large body of water to cross
- Via F208 South: additional river crossings
- Day trips from Reykjavik available
- Book in advance in high season
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Reykjavik: between must-see attractions and little-known corners
Iceland’s capital is widely explored and attracts many visitors, with its museums and iconic sites:
- FlyOver Iceland
- Whale Museum
- Statue Sun Voyager
- Harpa concert hall
- Cathedral
But Reykjavik is also home to more discreet spots, perfect for getting away from the crowds:
- Ellidaárdalur Valley: a little corner of wild nature in the heart of the city
- Öskjuhlíd: hill offering beautiful views and quiet walks
- Heidmörk: nature reserve with red volcanic hills and hiking trails
PLAN YOUR TRIP AROUND iceland
- Best of
Things to do in Iceland (coming soon)
Most beautiful waterfalls (coming soon)
Most beautiful black sand beaches (coming soon)
Best excursions from Reykjavik (coming soon)
Best things to do in Iceland in winter
Winter ice caves (coming soon)
- Practical advice
Getting around (coming soon)
How to rent a car in Iceland (coming soon)
Driving tips (coming soon)
Itineraries (coming soon)
Where to stay in Iceland (coming soon)
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 1 week – 10 days (to come)
- The must-dos
Things to do in Reykjavik (coming soon)
Best attractions in the Golden Circle (coming soon)
South Coast attractions (coming soon)
Snaefellsnes Peninsula (coming soon)
Silver Circle (coming soon)
Lake Myvatn attractions (coming soon)
Jokulsarlon (coming soon)
