Iceland — fire and ice, glaciers and black-sand coast — is one of the great bikepacking destinations. The riding is remote and the weather has a mind of its own, which is exactly the appeal. Here's a route to build from, the kit that earns its place, and the bike we'd take.
The route: Reykjavík and back
Treat this as a frame, not a fixed plan — Iceland's weather and road conditions will have opinions, so stay flexible and plan daily distances around your fitness and the terrain.
- Reykjavík — start in the capital, eat well, see Hallgrímskirkja, and get a night's sleep to acclimatise.
- Þingvellir National Park — ride to the Silfra Fissure between the tectonic plates; camp in the designated areas.
- Geysir geothermal area — time it for a Strokkur eruption; guesthouses nearby to recharge.
- Gullfoss — a short ride on, the thundering falls are worth the detour.
- Vatnajökull National Park — Europe's largest glacier, the Svartifoss waterfall, and the Jökulsárlón lagoon.
- East Fjords — winding coastal roads and fishing villages like Seyðisfjörður.
- Akureyri — the north's main town; restock before the quiet stretches ahead.
- The Westfjords — remote, rugged and spectacular; this is the wild heart of the trip.
- Snæfellsnes Peninsula — the Snæfellsjökull volcano and pretty harbours like Stykkishólmur.
- Back to Reykjavík — finish with a soak in the Blue Lagoon and a well-earned meal.
Planning and conditions
Iceland's weather changes fast and many roads are gravel or rough, so carry detailed maps, check forecasts daily, and build in slack. Resupply points are sparse outside the towns — top up food and water whenever you can, especially before the Westfjords.
Essential kit
- Bikepacking bags — frame bag, handlebar bag, seat pack and a top-tube bag; spread the weight low and central.
- Shelter and sleep — lightweight tent, sleeping bag and a stove for wild nights.
- Layers — waterproof and windproof kit are non-negotiable here.
- Navigation — GPS plus a paper map and compass for the remote sections.
- Repair kit — tools, spare tubes, a pump and a tubeless plug kit.
- Food, water and safety — dehydrated meals, a water filter, first-aid kit, and a satellite messenger or beacon.
The right bike
A trip like this needs a bike that's stable loaded, comfortable for long days and happy on rough surfaces — with the mounts to carry gear securely. That's exactly what the On & On Adventure is built for: a robust frame, versatile gearing and clearance for big, confident tyres. Load it up, point it at the horizon, and let Iceland do the rest.
