astein12

(Sorry... reposting in Iceland forum)

My wife and I have just started planning for a 2 week Iceland vacation. We're currently planning on late-Sept, early October. Any help would be appreciated.

1) How many days in Reykjavík? We've seen a lot of cities all over the world so really looking for what makes Reykjavík unique.

2) We're outdoor types... especially like to hike. Also like getting out on the water (bird watching, whale watching, fishing, etc). Any suggestions would be appreciated.

3) Any recommendations on places to stay? We're flexible... farm stays, B&B's, etc.

4) Anyone have a pointer to a good 2 week driving itinerary? I've seen a few, but always looking for more ideas.

5) Anything that I'm missing?

Thanks in advance... if I can return the favor for Alaska, France, Scotland, Ireland, South Africa, New Zealand, Belize, Italy... let me know...

dkw

Hi Astein12,

We spent 2 weeks driving the Ring Road in August of 2005. It was one of our best vacations ever.

Here is a link to our trip report:
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=34670021

We spent 2 days in Reykjavik upon arrival and one at the end of the trip and felt that was enough. There is so much to see in the other parts of the country.

We especially enjoyed White Water Rafting, a lava cave tour near Lake Myvatn and snowmobiling on the Vatnajokul Glacier.
I'm not sure if these excursions run in September or October.

We stayed in several Fosshotels around the country and found them to be clean, comfortable and the employees friendly and helpful.

Be sure to try the "Icelandic Happy Hour", which is fermented shark meat and Brenevin Liquor...also known as "Black Death." Oh so tasty....(kidding!)

Feel free to post back with any additional questions.

travelbunny

..place to stay- Northern Lights. it is a small family run hotel near the Blue Lagoon. The hotel rooms are nice, clean but unremarkable. However, the family atmosphere is great. The real attraction is a fabulous restaurant. The people who own it are more than happy to run you to the blue lagoon. A real gem of a small unpretentious hotel.

eri

You are si wise to plan 2 weeks in Iceland! I am always sorry for those who think that they can "do" it in 3-4 days...
I agree with dkw, 2 nights in Reykjavik in the beginning, and 1 night at the end, are more than sufficient. On the second day, I suggest that you drive the "Golden Circle": Thingvellir, Geysir and Gulfoss. This will serve nicely as an "introduction to the big trip. Return to Reykjavik and the next morning leave for the big trip.
If you plan to rent a 4X4, and only if weather permits (October might be too late), you could add additional nights in Reykjavik, and use it as a base to go to either Landmannalaugar or Thorsmork or to both. However, After many trips to Iceland, and especially since it will be already the beginning of the winter, and the days are shorter, I would go at least to one of those destination on a superjeep tour. They are expensive, butreally worth the investment. The driver-guide is very knowledgeable and the safty plays a great part in such a decision. If you decide not to drive inland, you do not need a 4X4 and this will save you some money. If it just the 2 of you, a small car will be sufficient. We has a Honda Jazz on our last trip, and it was very nice and comfortable.
Birds will be a problem in Sep-Oct. The puffins leave to the sea in the beginning of September. I have no knowledge about whales.
I recommend staying in farms as much as you can. Avoid hotels wherever and whenever possible. Here is a site that may help you: http://www.farmholidays.is/
Just find out in advance which is open and operating in late Sep, early Oct. You won't regret it!
While in the Myvatn area, you may consider taking another superjeep tour (if they still offer them that late) to Askja. Absolutely beautiful trip!

astein12

Thanks for all of the information everyone...