13 Best Places To Visit In Iceland's Diamond Circle
Last Updated: Jun 26, 2023
Reading Time: 9 minutes
By: Shaun
The Diamond Circle is a route located in the northern region of Iceland, consisting of a loop of around 250 kilometres (155 miles). While the Diamond Circle is not as popular as the Golden Circle to the south, it should be on the itinerary of any serious traveller to Iceland.
Let’s explore why you should plan a trip to the Diamond Circle and the 13 Best Places to Visit in Iceland’s Diamond Circle.
Why Should You Visit the Golden Circle?
Taking a trip around the Diamond Circle route is the best way to discover the best attractions that the north of Iceland has to offer. The route takes its name from the diamond shape that appears on the map when you plan a route to visit the five main locations in the Diamond Circle.
The area however has so much more to offer than just these five attractions, so make no mistake and plan to stay for a few days and enjoy to the full the wonders of the Diamond Circle.
What are the best places to visit in Iceland’s Golden Circle?
1. Akureyri
Akureyri | Image by Bromr on Wikimedia Commons
Akureyri which is also known as the capital of the north, is Iceland’s second-largest urban area after the capital Reykjavík. With around 20,000 residents, the city is situated on the coast of the Eyjafjörður fjord, surrounded by mountains and forests and is a great place to base yourself while you explore the rest of the Diamond Circle.
The area around Akureyri has been inhabited for centuries and the city has a rich cultural heritage. The city is home to a number of museums and galleries, including the Aviation Museum and the Akureyri Art Museum, which features works by some of Iceland’s most famous artists.
2. Godafoss Waterfall
Godafoss | Image by Ævar Guðmundsson on Flickr
One of the highlights of the Diamond Circle is Godafoss, which literally translates to “Waterfall of the Gods”. It is an impressive 12 metre (40 foot) high and 30 metre (100 foot) wide waterfall. The location is easily reachable, as it is right off the ring road that encircles Iceland and about 45 minutes’ drive from Akureyri.
The site has a 3 kilometre (1.9 mile) hiking trail that goes around the entire waterfall area.
According to legend, Godafoss was named after an event that occurred in the year 1000 AD. Around this time, Iceland was considering adopting Christianity, and after much thought, Þorgeir decided that Iceland should become Christian. To symbolise this decision, he threw the statues of the old Norse gods into the waterfall so as a result, the waterfall is now known as Godafoss.
3. Húsavík
Húsavík | Image by ArtHouse Studio on Pexels
With a population of around 2,300 people, Húsavík is known for its whale watching tours and is often referred to as the “whale watching capital of Europe”. There are many tour companies that provide whale-watching excursions. Some of these excursions also include a pass-by of Grimsey Island, whose cliffs are home to puffins in the early summer.
Húsavík is also home to the Húsavík Whale Museum, which is dedicated to the history and science of whales.
4. Dettifoss Waterfall
Dettifoss | Image by Bernd Thaller on Flickr
Dettifoss is an amazing waterfall with an average water flow of 193 cubic metres (6,815 cubic feet) per second. This makes Dettifoss the largest waterfall in Europe by volume. The waterfall is situated in the Vatnajökull National Park and is fed by the powerful Jökulsá á Fjöllum river.
Visitors to Dettifoss are awestruck by its impressive size and power. The waterfall is around 100 metres (328 feet) wide, with a drop of 44 metres (144 feet) that sends a plume of mist into the air. The roar of the falling water can be heard from a distance, and the force of the water as it hits the rocks below is truly impressive.
Despite its remote location, Dettifoss is easily accessible as it’s just off the Ring Road. Visitors can park at the visitor centre and then take a short walk to the viewing platform at the edge of the waterfall. From here visitors can get up close and personal with the falls and even feel the mist on their faces.
5. Ásbyrgi
Ásbyrgi | Image by Gummao on Wikimedia Commons
The Ásbyrgi Canyon is another breathtaking attraction at the Vatnajökull National Park. The canyon is best known for its unique shape, which many say resembles the hoofprint of Sleipnir, the horse of the Norse god Odin.
For centuries, the people of Iceland considered the canyon a sacred place, and it has played an important role in Icelandic folklore and mythology.
6. Lake Mývatn
Lake Mývatn
Lake Mývatn is a shallow lake that is known for its geology and wildlife. The lake is situated in an area of active volcanic activity and is surrounded by a number of geological features, including lava fields and hot springs. Visitors to Mývatn can also explore the many hiking and biking trails in the area or take a boat tour of the lake to see its geological features up close.
The area is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including many species of birds. The lake is popular location with birdwatchers who come to see species such as the harlequin duck and the Eurasian wigeon.
Myvatn translates to “the lake of midges”, referring to the large number of midges present during the summer. The sheer number of them can surely be an irritation, so a hat with a net is highly recommended. You can thank me later.
7. Dimmuborgir
Dimmuborgir | Image by David Stanley on Flickr
One of the many attractions around the Mývatn lake is the area known as Dimmuborgir, which means “dark fortresses” in Icelandic. The area is composed of unique and striking volcanic rock formations, which one can explore through the several paths present at the site.
Dimmuborgir is the result of volcanic activity that occurred thousands of years ago in the area. The lava flowed from the volcano and created a number of impressive geological features, such as large caves, pillars, and arches.
Dimmuborgir has gained popularity in recent years due to being featured in HBO’s Game of Thrones, where it was used as the location for Mance Raider’s wildling army. Additionally, the Norwegian black metal band Dimmu Borgir took their name from the region.
8. Mývatn Nature Baths
Mývatn Nature Baths | Image by MindsEye_PJ on Flickr
Another popular attraction around Mývatn Lake are for sure the Nature Baths. These baths are known for their beautiful location, which is surrounded by stunning landscapes and beauty. The baths are located in a serene setting with views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
The water gets naturally heated by the geothermal activity found in the area, making it the perfect temperature for soaking and relaxation. Visitors to the Mývatn Nature Baths can also enjoy a variety of other activities like steam rooms, a sauna, a cold-water pool and can chill out at the café or the lounge area.
9. Grjótagjá
Grjótagjá | Image by Sebastian Werner on Flickr
Close to the Nature Baths is the Grjótagjá cave. This small cave is known for its geothermal hot spring, which has been used for bathing since the 18th century. Just like Dimmuborgir the cave rose to prominence after it too made an appearance in the popular television series Game of Thrones.
The cave was once a popular destination for locals and travellers, who would come to bathe in the warm waters of the hot spring. However, the cave was closed to the public in the 1970s after a series of earthquakes increased the water temperature and made it too hot to bathe in.
10. Krafla
Viti crater | Image by PxHere
Close to Mývatn, one can find the Krafla volcanic system. This system includes a number of volcanic features, such as the Viti crater.
Krafla has a long history of volcanic activity, with the most recent eruption occurring in 1984. The area makes good use of its geothermal activity through Krafla Power Station, which generates electricity from the steam produced by the volcanic system.
11. Hverfjall Volcano
Hverfjall Volcano | Image by Matt Champlin on Flickr
Hverfjall is a dormant volcano that too forms part of the Krafla volcanic system. The volcano last erupted in the year 1000 AD.
Hverfjall is a popular hiking attraction in the area, with many visitors coming to trek to the top and around the rim of the volcano crater. The crater is around 140 metres (450 feet) deep and 1 kilometre (0.62 miles) in diameter.
12. Námaskarð / Hverir
Hverir | Image by Bri on Flickr
Námaskarð is a geothermal area not too far from Mývatn and is situated on top of a hot spot, which is a region of the earth’s crust that is undergoing volcanic activity. This hot spot is responsible for the area’s high levels of geothermal activity as well as its unique and unusual scenery as volcanic lava and hot water combine to form a geothermal system.
The area, which also goes by the name of Hverir, is infamous for its strong and pungent egg-like smell, which, be warned, can be quite overwhelming for some people. The smell is caused by the sulfuric mud and steam that are so strong that they even prevent vegetation from growing in the area.
Námaskarð has been a destination for travellers for many centuries. In the past, the area was believed to have healing properties, and by taking a bath in the hot springs, one could get cured of various ailments.
13. Aldeyjarfoss
Aldeyjarfoss | Image by Marco Nürnberger on Flickr
Aldeyjarfoss is a waterfall located in the Skjálfandafljót river in the north of Iceland. The waterfall was formed by volcanic activity over 9,000 years ago, when molten lava flowed over the area and created the basalt formations that are now visible.
Getting to Aldeyjarfoss can be a bit of an adventure, but it’s well worth the effort. Visitors will need to drive along a gravel road that can be a bit bumpy and challenging at times, but the scenery along the way is absolutely breathtaking. Make sure that the vehicle you will be using is allowed and equipped to be driven on gravel roads.
Visitors should also be prepared for a short hike from the parking area to the waterfall, but the hike is relatively easy and the views are well worth it.
Conclusion
The Diamond Circle is one of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring regions in Iceland. From the stunning Lake Mývatn, to the powerful Dettifoss waterfall and the unique Ásbyrgi Canyon, there’s something for everyone in the Diamond Circle.
Whether you’re an adventurer or just a nature lover, you’re sure to be inspired by the natural beauty of this region. So, pack your bags and hit the road for possibly one of the best trips of your life around Iceland’s Diamond Circle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Diamond Circle?
The Diamond Circle is a 250-kilometre (155-mile) route located in northeast Iceland that is well-known for its beautiful landscapes and natural wonders. This area is full of stunning natural wonders such as geysers, waterfalls, glaciers, and hot springs.
Is the Diamond Circle worth it?
The Diamond Circle is totally worth it, and it is the best way to discover the natural attractions that the north of Iceland has to offer.
How can you get to the Diamond Circle in Iceland?
The Diamond Circle can be best reached by driving from Akureyri. Visitors can either rent a car and drive the route themselves or join a guided tour that includes transportation and a knowledgeable guide.
Is it possible to do the Diamond Circle in one day?
It is possible to do the Diamond Circle in one day, but it's not recommended. To fully appreciate the region and explore the destinations in depth, it's best to allow at least two to three days to complete the drive.
Where should I stay when visiting the Diamond Circle?
The best locations to plan an overnight stay are in Akureyri, around Lake Mývatn or in Húsavík.
