Hidden Iceland Routes Most Tourists Miss (And You Can Hit With a Rental)
Iceland has famous loops for a reason. They are easy and close. They are also crowded. If you want quiet roads and empty pullouts, you need the routes most people skip. A rental car gives you that freedom, because you control the pace.
Quick Setup For Safe, Smooth Driving
Driving in Iceland is often straightforward, but conditions can change fast. Gravel can appear without warning. Wind can push a car. Typical speed limits are 50 km/h in towns, up to 90 km/h on paved roads, and up to 80 km/h on gravel.
Know what road type you are choosing. F-roads are highland mountain roads marked with an “F.” They can be narrow, rocky, steep, and full of potholes, and water crossings are possible. Only take them with a proper 4x4 and strong driving skill.
MyCar is set up for self-drive travel. Their rentals include CDW, third-party liability, theft protection, and winter tires free from November to April. They do not hold a deposit during the rental period and only take a card imprint as a guarantee.
Route 1: Reykjanes Peninsula Loop That Gets Ignored
Most travelers land at Keflavík and rush to Reykjavík. Reykjanes sits right there and feels wild.
What To Do
Make a loop around geothermal ground, black lava, and rough coast. Use short stops, because the landscape changes quickly. Leave time for wind, because the shoreline can be harsh.
Car And Road Notes
This route works with an economy or hybrid. If the forecast shows heavy wind, a heavier vehicle can feel more stable. Hold the door when you step out.
Route 2: Snæfellsnes Detours Beyond The Crowded Stops
Snæfellsnes is famous, but most visitors treat it like a checklist. The better plan is slower driving with quick walks and small-town breaks.
What To Do
Aim for quieter lava areas, side-road viewpoints, and short cliff walks when the wind is calm. End in a fishing town for food and fuel. It keeps the day balanced and easier on the driver.
Road Notes
Expect gravel in places. Slow down before the surface changes. On gravel, braking takes longer and corners can slide, even at low speed.
Route 3: Westfjords Fjord Roads For Real Quiet
The Westfjords are the crowd filter. Roads bend around deep fjords and climb over passes. It takes time, so many tours stay away. That is why it feels so calm.
What To Do
Pick one main road, then add short spurs to small harbors and lookouts. Stop in a village for supplies, because services are spread out. Scan calm coves for seals and seabirds.
Car And Planning Notes
A 4x4 is a smart choice here. Even without F-roads, you can face steep gravel, narrow lanes, and rough patches. MyCar’s brochure shows a fleet that ranges from compact cars to rugged options, which fits this mix of town and remote driving.
Route 4: Eastfjords Slow Drive With Tiny Ports And Big Views
Many people “pass through” the Eastfjords. That is exactly why they miss them. These roads reward short drives, quick hikes, and long looks over the water.
What To Do
Use pullouts for waterfalls, old piers, and hillside views. Keep your plan flexible, because fog can roll in fast.
Safety Notes
Keep headlights on and watch for sheep on the road. Off-road driving is forbidden, even for a quick photo stop.
Route 5: Tröllaskagi In The North For Pure Road Trip Energy
Tröllaskagi is for people who want the drive to feel like part of the trip, not just transport. It has sharp mountains, fjord curves, and small towns with real character.
What To Do
Link a few towns along the peninsula and stop whenever the light looks good. Add short shoreline walks. This route is built for simple rhythm: drive, stop, warm up, repeat.
Car Notes
Comfort matters more than power. If you have more than two people or lots of bags, a larger car or a mini van makes the day easier.
Rules That Prevent Bad Days
Use speed limits as a ceiling, not a goal. Slow down early for blind bends and loose gravel. In winter, plan more and drive less, because ice, snow, wind, and low visibility raise risk and can make some areas a no-go.
A Natural Way To Use MyCar On These Routes
Hidden routes work best when pickup is easy and help is available. MyCar’s notes 24/7 Keflavík operations and an airport shuttle, which helps when flights arrive late or plans change. Their included protections and winter tires also make budgeting simpler.
Book MyCar today for a hassle-free road trip.
FAQs
Is A 4x4 Required For Every Hidden Route?
No. Reykjanes and most Snæfellsnes routes work with a normal car in good weather. For Westfjords gravel and remote spurs, a 4x4 is a safer choice. F-roads can include water crossings, so they need the right vehicle and skill.
What Should Be Packed For A Self-Drive Day?
Bring warm layers, a rain shell, water, snacks, and a phone charger. Add sunglasses for glare. Keep essentials in a small bag so you are not stuck sorting luggage in the wind.
Do Winter Tires Matter That Much?
Yes. Winter driving can involve ice, snow, strong winds, and low visibility, so grip matters. MyCar includes winter tires free from November to April.
When Should The Rental Be Booked?
Book early in peak months, especially for 4x4 models. Lock the vehicle first, then shape the route around the car type you have.