Beyond the Ring Road: Iceland’s Hidden Scenic Drives

Iceland’s Ring Road is iconic — and for good reason. It loops around the entire island, offering a convenient route to many of the country’s best-known sites: the thundering Skógafoss waterfall, the dramatic cliffs of Vík, and the ethereal landscapes near Lake Mývatn.

But for the curious traveller who longs for solitude, raw beauty, and cultural depth, Iceland holds so much more beyond this well-trodden circle. There are hidden fjords, ancient settlements, and roads that hug mountainsides and coastlines in ways the Ring Road never could.

Welcome to the secret routes of Iceland — and the key to unlocking them? A reliable rental car, your ticket to freedom in the land of fire and ice.

Why Go Beyond the Ring Road?

While the Ring Road stitches together many of Iceland’s top tourist attractions, it also hosts the bulk of the crowds. Venturing beyond it means discovering remote landscapes, unspoiled villages, and experiences that few travellers ever get to have.

But Iceland’s interior and remote coastal edges aren’t served by public transport. Many of these areas don’t offer guided tours either. That’s where renting a car in Iceland becomes essential. Whether it’s a compact 4x4 SUV for winding mountain roads or a spacious  Estate for long coastal drives, having your own vehicle means you can stop where you like, stay as long as you want, and let Iceland set the pace.

 

1. Strandir Coast: The Wild East of the Westfjords

Nestled in the northeastern reaches of the Westfjords, the Strandir Coast is one of Iceland’s most secluded and magical drives. This remote stretch of Route 643 clings to the edge of the land, where the mountains drop into the Arctic waters below.

As you follow the coastline toward Norðurfjörður, you’ll pass through fishing villages like Djúpavík, home to an abandoned herring factory now used for art installations and music festivals. The road ends at the Krossneslaug geothermal pool, perched on a rocky shore — a remote hot spring with a view of the open sea.

• Why drive here? No buses, no tours, no crowds — just surreal silence, steep cliffs, and sea mist.

• What you'll need: A sturdy rental car, especially outside summer months.

2. Route 61: The Heartline of the Westfjords

Often overlooked in favour of the Ring Road’s ease, Route 61 (also known as Djúpvegur) takes you deep into the Westfjords, one of the most dramatic and least visited parts of the country.

Winding its way from Ísafjörður to Drangsnes, Route 61 crosses narrow fjords, passes under mountain tunnels, and gives travellers a front-row seat to Iceland’s glacial past. Waterfalls tumble from cliff faces, Arctic foxes dart across gravel roads, and the only traffic jams you’ll face are with curious sheep.

• Cultural highlight: Visit the remote Hrafnseyri museum, birthplace of Iceland’s independence hero Jón Sigurðsson.

• Driving tip: Some segments are gravel — choose a car rental company that offers vehicles suited for Westfjords terrain (Höldur, of course!).
  
  

3. Route 35 through the Highlands (Kjölur Route)

Want to cross Iceland’s interior without going full F-road mode? Route 35, also known as the Kjölur Route, cuts straight through the heart of the country between Gullfoss and Blönduós, passing steaming geothermal fields and desolate plateaus along the way.

Here, you’ll discover Hveravellir, a surreal hot spring area where bubbling vents meet highland winds — and it’s completely unspoiled.

• Best for: Adventure-seekers not afraid of gravel roads.

• Pro tip: Check that your vehicle is cleared for highland driving — not all 4x4s are!
  
  

4. The Eastfjords: Route 92 and Beyond

The Eastfjords are often skipped due to their distance from Reykjavík, but they reward those who explore them with jagged peaks, sleepy fishing villages, and long coastal views. Take Route 92 from Egilsstaðir to Seyðisfjörður, where rainbow-painted streets and artist enclaves await.

Extend your trip to villages like Borgarfjörður Eystri, rumoured to be home to elves — and some of the best hiking in Iceland.

• Don’t miss: The drive up Fjarðarheiði mountain pass, often cloaked in fog and folklore.

• Fun fact: The local population may be sparse, but puffins outnumber people in summer.
  
  

Why Renting a Car in Iceland Is a Game-Changer

Freedom to Explore

Many of Iceland’s most jaw-dropping spots aren’t on tour bus itineraries. Renting a car means setting your own schedule, finding that hidden waterfall, or taking that spontaneous turn toward the horizon.

Access to Remote Areas

From the haunting Strandir Coast to the bubbling highland geothermal fields, public transport simply doesn’t go to Iceland’s wildest places.

Comfort and Flexibility

With your own vehicle, you control the playlist, the snack breaks, and the photo ops. Plus, you can stay overnight in those scenic guesthouses far from the crowds.

Local Support, Global Standards

With providers like Höldur – Europcar Iceland, you get decades of local experience plus international quality. Whether it’s pickup in Reykjavík or roadside help on Route 61, we’re with you every mile of the way.

Top FAQs: Renting a Car in Iceland

Do I need a 4x4 to drive beyond the Ring Road?

Not always, but it helps. For the Westfjords, Strandir, or Highland roads like Kjölur, a 4x4 is essential — especially in shoulder seasons.

Can I drive Iceland’s scenic routes in winter?

Some — like Route 92 to Seyðisfjörður — are ploughed, but others close due to snow. Always check road.is and consult our staff for the latest advice. Be sure to check out our comprehensive guide to winter driving.

Is insurance included with my car rental in Iceland?

Basic insurance usually is, but gravel, sand, and ash protection are must-haves for these wild routes. Höldur offers comprehensive coverage for peace of mind.

Are Iceland’s remote roads well signposted?

Generally yes, but a GPS or offline map is a smart backup. Some remote routes have limited signage, so research and prep matter.

Can I rent a car straight from Keflavík Airport?

Yes! Höldur has location in the terminal building at Keflavík International airport. Also in Reykjavík, and across the country. It’s easy to pick up your vehicle and start exploring immediately.

Is it safe to drive in Iceland?

Absolutely — but conditions can change quickly. Always check the weather, drive with caution, and plan ahead, especially off the Ring Road. Our Icelandic driving guide provides everything you need to know before hitting the road.

Do I need to return the car to the same location?

Not necessarily. One-way rentals are available through Höldur, letting you plan a flexible itinerary — ideal for linear routes like from East to Westfjords.

Can I camp in my rental car?

Only if you rent a camper-approved vehicle and stay at designated campsites. Wild camping laws are strict in Iceland to protect nature.

 

Ready to Go Beyond the Ordinary?

Iceland isn’t just a place — it’s a feeling. A remote fjord with seals bobbing offshore. A winding gravel road with not a soul in sight. A sunrise in the highlands that turns volcanic peaks to gold. And beyond the Ring Road, that feeling only grows stronger.

At Höldur, we are proud to be Iceland’s largest car rental operator, offering a fleet of over 8,000 vehicles and a network of rental outlets across the country. As Iceland’s official Europcar franchisee, we provide our customers with reliable, professional service you can trust.

We are one of only three authorized car rental providers located directly inside Keflavik Airport. Our rental desk is conveniently situated in the arrivals hall, just to the left after passing through Customs. Your vehicle will be waiting for you in the airport car park, just steps from the terminal.

Rent a car in Iceland with Höldur and let your adventure unfold where the map ends and the magic begins.