BEYOND THE FINISH LINE: ICELAND
A TRAVEL GUIDE
ICELAND COAST TO COAST
LAND OF FIRE & ICE
You’re already heading to one of the most dramatic landscapes on the planet, so why rush home? Iceland isn’t just the stage for a Rat Race adventure; it’s a place you don’t easily forget. A few extra days here lets you experience the country beyond the event route: slower mornings, long evenings, hot water easing tired muscles, and landscapes that feel almost too vast to be real.
Reykjavik, where the journey both begins and ends, is the perfect place to base yourself. Small, walkable and full of character, it offers easy access to wild landscapes while still delivering good coffee, great food and the perfect place to relax, refuel and relive the highlights of your Icelandic adventure.
EVENT START & FINISH : REYKJAVIK
REYKJAVIK AS A BASE
Reykjavik might be small, but it’s full of character. Home to around 145,000 people, the city feels relaxed and intimate, with restaurants, culture and the sea never far from view. This city is ideal for relaxing or celebrating properly once you’ve crossed the finish.
Laugavegur Street runs through the heart of the city and is lined with cafés, outdoor shops, bakeries and independent stores; it’s perfect for exploration and a coffee stop or two along the way.
Rising above the city, Hallgrimskirkja is Reykjavik’s most iconic landmark. Inspired by Iceland’s basalt columns, its striking design reflects the country’s volcanic landscapes. A lift to the top rewards you with wide views across the colourful rooftops, mountains and the sea beyond; a reminder of the wild terrain you have just experienced.
From here, it’s an easy stroll down to the waterfront. The Sun Voyager sculpture, shaped like a Viking ship, symbolises exploration and discovery, while nearby Harpa Concert Hall catches the light with its glass facade, constantly shifting with the weather and sky.
For a deeper sense of Iceland’s story, the National Museum of Iceland offers a thoughtful and accessible introduction to the country’s history, from early settlement to modern life. If you’d rather stay outdoors and stretch your legs, a gentle stroll out to Grotta Lighthouse provides fresh sea air and sweeping coastal views. Just be sure to check the tide timetable first!
WEATHER IN AUGUST
August is widely considered one of the best times to visit Iceland. Daytime temperatures usually hover around 13°C, cooling to around 8°C in the evenings. Rainfall is relatively low, and you’ll have up to 16 hours of daylight, meaning there’s plenty of time to take in the landscapes around you.
That said, Icelandic weather has a mind of its own. You might experience sunshine, wind, mist and rain all in the same afternoon; sometimes within minutes of each other. Layers are key, but this unpredictability is part of the magic.
EVENT TIMING : MID AUGUST
Top tip: From mid to late August, there’s also a small chance of seeing the Northern Lights, particularly if you stay up late and move away from city lights.