The Diamond Circle is one of the most interesting and lesser known routes in Iceland. This 250 kilometre loop in the north of the country offers an impressive variety of natural beauty that will fascinate any visitor. The route has something for everyone – from mighty waterfalls to volcanic landscapes and charming fishing villages.
General information about the Diamond Circle
The Diamond Circle is a circular route that links some of Iceland’s most impressive natural wonders. The route is approximately 250 kilometres long and can be completed in one to three days, depending on how much time you want to spend at each stop. The best time to travel is all year round, with summer ideal for hiking and whale watching, while winter reveals the icy beauty of Lake Mývatn. Four-wheel drive is recommended to cope with the often difficult road conditions, especially from October to April.
Diamond or Golden Circle?
Der Diamond Circle ist eine weniger bekannte, aber nicht weniger eindrucksvolle Alternative zum berühmten Golden Circle in Südisland, der von Reykjavik aus leicht zu erreichen ist und zu dem auch die bekannten Attraktionen Þingvellir, der Gullfoss und der Geysir gehören. Während der Golden Circle oft als Tagesausflug beliebt ist, lädt der Diamond Circle zum gemächlicheren Erkunden der unberührten Natur und abwechslungsreichen Landschaft ein. Beide Routen nutzen Teile der Ringstraße, die sich rund um Island zieht, wobei die Ringstraße die Möglichkeit bietet, das ganze Land in seiner Gesamtheit zu erkunden.
Highlights of the Diamond Circle
Goðafoss
One of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland is Goðafoss, also known as the “Waterfall of the Gods”. It impresses with its semicircular shape and thundering masses of water and is located in the municipality of Bárðardalur. The waterfall also has historical significance: in 1000 AD the chieftain Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði had pagan idols thrown into the waterfall to symbolise Iceland’s adoption of Christianity.
Dettifoss
An absolute must on the Diamond Circle is Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall. With a drop of 44 metres and a width of 100 metres, it impresses with its sheer power and the enormous masses of water that plunge into the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon. The waterfall can be reached on well maintained hiking trails and offers spectacular photo opportunities.
Lake Mývatn
Mývatn is a volcanic lake known for its unique landscape and rich birdlife. Surrounded by bizarre lava columns and volcanic formations, the lake covers an area of 37 square kilometres. Particularly impressive are the mock craters at Skútustaðir and the hot springs at Hverir. Lake Mývatn is a paradise for nature lovers with many hiking trails and birdwatching opportunities.
Ásbyrgi Gorge
The horseshoe-shaped Ásbyrgi Gorge is a geological wonder and a place of mystical beauty. Legend has it that the gorge was formed by the hoof print of the Norse god Odin’s eight-legged steed Sleipnir. The gorge is surrounded by sheer cliffs and offers a variety of walks through lush vegetation and along small lakes.
Húsavík
Known as the “Whale Watching Capital of Europe”, Húsavík is a charming fishing village. Many boat trips leave from here to watch humpback whales, minke whales and sometimes even blue whales. The Whale Museum in Húsavík also offers an interesting insight into marine biology and the history of whale watching.
Other places worth seeing
In addition to the main attractions, there are many other places of interest along the Diamond Circle. Some of them are:
- Hverfjall: An impressive tuff crater formed by a volcanic eruption about 2,500 years ago.
- Dimmuborgir: A lava field with bizarre rock formations reminiscent of an enchanted castle.
- Grjótagjá: A small cave with a hot spring, made famous by the series “Game of Thrones”.
Need more tips for Iceland? Read our Iceland Guide!
The Diamond Circle is an unforgettable journey through some of the most beautiful and impressive landscapes Iceland has to offer. Explore the route in one or more days: You will be inspired by the diversity and beauty of the region.
