Driving the Ring Road in Iceland

The steel sculpture on Reykjavík's waterfront that resembles a Viking long-ship is the 'Sólfarið' or 'The Sun Voyager.

Am I really on a flight to Iceland right now? Let's go on an adventure!

A grand sunrise. This is an amazing way to spend a morning after landing at the Keflavík Airport at 4 am. As you leave the airport, you enter a desolate landscape often described as "driving on the moon," with vast lava fields blanketed in green moss. This drive provides a scenic introduction to the Reykjanes Peninsula, featuring rugged terrain and expansive ocean views.

So beautiful I cried... Hallgrímskirkja is a Lutheran church in Reykjavík, Iceland, known for its unique architecture and as the tallest church in Iceland. Its design is inspired by the basalt columns found in Iceland's landscape. Standing in the heart of the church, the Hallgrímskirkja pipe organ is a work of art that seamlessly blends the traditional and the contemporary, reflecting the modernist style of the church.

Unreal street art... Reykjavik boasts a vibrant and diverse street art scene, transforming the city's urban landscape into an open-air gallery. Murals and graffiti, ranging from whimsical characters to thought-provoking social commentary, adorn buildings, alleyways, and even pavements. The art reflects both Icelandic culture and international influences, with many pieces resulting from collaborations between local and global artists. 

Located in an old biscuit factory and decorated with salvaged materials, the Kex Hostel has an eclectic feel that’s impossible to miss. The hostel's industrial aesthetic, featuring salvaged materials and found objects, creates a distinctive and memorable environment.  It’s also known locally for hosting the best musicians in town. It is recommended as the place to be in the evening. There was convenient street parking for the car rental, which was free during the evening. This worked out well since I had to be on the road early the next morning.

When the Icelandic bartender at the hostel says, "You are going to drive the Ring Road, for your spirituality." I would recommend this location for a budget-friendly stay. Time to explore town and gather some resources before heading north.

Walking around Reykjavik...

So, I have driven around some rocks where it didn't make sense for the road to deviate. I think this is where the "hidden people" live, but I have yet to confirm this with the locals.

The Freezer Hostel & Culture Centre is a unique, award-winning social hostel located in a former fish factory in the small Icelandic fishing village of Rif on the Snæfellsnes peninsula. It's known for its lively atmosphere, artistic vibe, and as a hub for Icelandic arts and culture. The hostel offers a variety of accommodations, including dorms, private rooms, camping spaces, and apartments, alongside a social lounge, bar, and theater. 

They offer cheap accommodation, regular events, and entertainment for guests and the local community all year round. For more information, you can visit www.visitthelocals.is