itwk,
We didn't consider flying, but I think your plan sounds like a good one. Take your time driving up to Akureyri, then fly back. We didn't really do much exploring after Akureyri and I think the only reason we didn't fly was just to keep costs down.

You are most definitely going to have the best time. We talk about our trip all the time and are planning on returning next year. Best of luck in your travels!

Thanks Eliza. We were thinking about the cost too but I feel that it would be money well spent if it means taking in more of the sights and feeling less stressed hauling the kids about. We may shamelessly copy most of your stops! BTW, were most of the attractions fairly accessible? Can you drive up to most of them? Because obviously with the kids we can't be taking very long and difficult treks. Thanks again.

With two kids, I'm sure the plane ride will be worth it!

Everything we saw was right off the main road around Iceland. In fact, one of the things we enjoyed the most was pulling over whenever we saw something amazing from the car--lava fields, a beautiful waterfall--whatever caught our eye.

It really is a beautiful, warm country. You'll have a great time. Let me know, if you have any more questions.

Eliza, You are amazing! I can't thank you enough for taking the time to write all this! My friends (a married couple) and I will be leaving on July 31st for Copenhagen, then attending a wedding in Sweden and then flying to Iceland to spend a few days there before returning to San Francisco. I posted a few questions on this site (just the day before you posted your report), under "a bunch of questions about Iceland". Would you be so kind to check them out and see if you can provide me with any guidance? Also, what is the shortest time you recommend to explore some of Iceland in a decent way with a rental car? Our arrival time in Iceland (from Stockholm) is left open - we just couldn't decide how many days we should devote to Stockholm and how many to Iceland. I'd be eternally grateful for any suggestions and information! -Sonia

Planning 10 day ring road for late May too and, despite that this is trip is two years later, I found all the insights SO helpful so I thought I'd bring it back to the top.

If you're still watching, THANKS ELIZA!