ICELAND’S RING ROAD
EXPERIENCED BY JULIE CALLAS
WHEN: October 2024
WHERE: Iceland
We all know the thrill—and the freeze—in your stomach when you glance at a map of one of the world’s most jaw-dropping drives and think: Where the heck do I even start? Can I drive this road in October? That was me before my Icelandic Ring Road trip. That’s when I leaned on one of our preferred partners. They know the ins and outs of Iceland, but they don’t box you into a rigid itinerary. They point out all the best locations, sometimes giving you more than you could ever see, but allowing you the freedom to chase what you want, whether that be waterfalls, black-sand beaches, mossy lava fields, geysers or glaciers!
We set out on Iceland’s Ring Road with a loose plan and a lot of curiosity, not fully realizing just how much this journey would stir our souls. Over 800 miles of raw, cinematic landscapes unfolded before us—glaciers, black sand beaches, mossy lava fields, geysers, waterfalls. Every stretch of road brought something unexpected, and we loved that no two moments ever felt the same.
We traveled in October, which meant fewer crowds and a touch of mystery in the moody skies. With every stop—whether it was a spontaneous roadside waterfall, a hike on a glacier, or a zodiac ride through the icy stillness of Jökulsárlón—we felt more in awe of Iceland’s untamed beauty.
We laughed a lot, too—especially when unpacking way too many bags from our rental car or navigating winding gravel roads in the rain. Having the right travel crew made it all feel easy, even the rugged parts. And while we loved the thrill of the ice cave expedition and the power of the elements, we also embraced Iceland’s quieter gifts: soaking in hidden hot springs, the meditative warmth of Sky Lagoon’s seven-step ritual, and a fleeting glimpse of the northern lights that left us speechless.
If you’re dreaming of a trip that blends wild adventure with moments of stillness, the Ring Road delivers. Just give yourself time—10 days at minimum, though we’d vote for 12 to 14 if you want room to breathe. Iceland is not just seen—it’s felt. And it stays with you long after the road ends. Contact Julie for totally customized travel planning.
THE INSIDE SCOOP
CULTURE // Icelandic culture is shaped by nature, community, and resilience—where simplicity, equality, and creativity are woven into daily life. There’s a quiet strength to the people, paired with a deep respect for the land and a love of storytelling, music, and humor.
CULINARY SCENE // Lots of hearty meals—beef, lamb, rich soups, and fresh seafood are staples here. Think lots of farm-to-table dining. Meals are delicious but often pricey, so plan accordingly (and maybe pack a few snacks for the road).
BEST FOR // curious, outdoorsy travelers who crave elemental landscapes, wide-open spaces, and a deeper kind of connection to nature, to culture, and yourself.
COMPLIMENTARY VACATION CONSULTATION
Contact Julie to start planning your next getaway, and she’ll schedule a complimentary call to answer your questions, explore ideas, and walk you through how we design seamless, custom vacations. What sets us apart is that we work as one highly experienced team and are part of the world’s largest network of vetted travel providers, giving you unmatched access and peace of mind.