Spouting geysers, thundering waterfalls and thermal hot springs. Glacial lagoons, erupting volcanoes and steaming lava fields. Schools of dolphin, magnificent humpbacked whales and a wild and rugged coastline. Travel to the border of the Arctic Circle where nature is still putting the finishing touches to a unique and exciting landscape that is Iceland.

• Travelling - 1
  

  Fly to Reykjavik. Your hotel in the centre of the city is perfectly located for exploring. Your Tour Guide will be on hand to advise you on the best places to visit, and restaurants where you can sample traditional dishes. Gravlax, a cured salmon, Hangkijot, a dish of smoked lamb or mutton served with potatoes, and Icelandic pancakes are all typical of the local cuisine.

• Discover Reykjavik - 2
  

  This tiny city, the most northerly capital in the world, enjoys a mix of quaint old charm and futuristic architecture. On our guided morning tour see the Parliament buildings, City Hall and Hallgrimskirkja church. Stop at Hofoi house where the famous summit meeting between Gorbachev and Reagan was held and make a stop at the busy fishing harbour. Reykjavik means ‘Smoky Bay’ and gets this name from the natural hot springs that surround the city. The springs fill huge water tanks that provide vital supplies to the residents. The Pearl tower, with its terrific views, stands high above the tanks. Overnight Reykjavik.

• See whales in their natural habitat - 2
  

  Don waterproofs (provided), board a boat at Reykjavik’s old harbour and take to the seas on an unforgettable guided marine adventure. Flocks of sea birds travel out with you to the whale’s natural habitat. Gannets, cormorants and guillemots make their noisy presence known as they follow the boat. As you sail past islands look out for colonies of puffins - a great photo opportunity. Keep your camera ready to capture the minke and humpback whale. Nothing can be as exciting as a close encounter with these magnificent creatures. To ensure the wildlife is not disturbed a constant speed is maintained by the captain allowing white-beaked dolphins, harbour porpoise and the occasional whale to surface, often within just a few feet of the boat. This evening why not join the locals and take a dip in the geothermal swimming pool at the Laugardalur Centre. Overnight Reykjavik.

• Travel through lava fields and meet the Icelandic horse - 3
  

  Journey across heath and lava fields to the geothermal town of Hverageroi. Learn how energy is harnessed from the hot springs generated quite literally from the ‘centre of the earth’ to grow vegetables and flowers in greenhouses. Bite into a locally grown tomato, you will be surprised at the delicious flavour. At Fridheimar meet with the Icelandic horse, a breed which has been intertwined with the culture and history of the Icelandic nation through the centuries and is one of the finest equine species in the world. After a show of horsemanship spend time in the stables getting to know the horses and their skilful riders.

• The awe inspiring ‘Golden Circle’ - 3
  

  A guided tour around the ‘Golden Circle’ is a highlight of any visit to Iceland. Gullfoss is the ‘Queen’ of Iceland’s falls. The Hvita River gushes over a double cascade into a deep gorge with the most tremendous force creating one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world. Spend time taking in the magnificence of this splendid sight. The photo opportunities are endless. One natural wonder is not enough and our adventure continues to a landscape of hot springs and spouting multi-coloured pools of water and mud. In the midst of this eerie landscape is the Great Geysir, derived from a Danish word, it gave its name to all spouting springs. Close by is Strokkur Geyser which is still very active. Every five to eight minutes there is an impressive display as steaming eruptions spurt into the air, sometimes as high as 75ft. Your Tour Guide will ensure you are always in the right spot to get the very best view.

  The Vikings chose Thingvellir National Park for their first national gatherings in the 10th century. You can see why they settled here and created the first parliament, known today as ‘Althingi’. Set against the backdrop of Lake Thingvallavatn amongst plunging ravines and steaming lava fields the park is the final natural wonder that makes up the stunning trio of the ‘Golden Circle.’ This place is central to the history of the country and to this day it is where the Icelandic people mark national events and celebrations. Take time to stroll around the sacred site and reflect on the fascinating history of an extraordinary nation. Overnight Reykjavik

• Visit the fishing village at Grindavik - 4
  

  Our journey today takes us through Bessastadir, the official residence of the President of Iceland and onto the Reykjanes peninsula. It is not surprising that there is very little vegetation here. Active volcanism is bubbling below and the surface is covered by large lava fields. Numerous hot springs and sulphur springs dot the landscape creating a moon-like environment. Fishermen deliver freshly caught fish to the charming village of Grindavik. Your local Specialist Guide will explain how the catch of cod is processed and prepared for export. Enjoy an included lunch of delicious fish soup and local bread.

• Bathe in the Blue Lagoon - 4
  

  As you approach see the steam rising from the powder blue waters of the astonishing Blue Lagoon, a natural geothermal pool set amidst a fi eld of black basalt. The mineral rich waters mix with seawater and the temperature averages a relaxing 35-45c. Don your swimming costume and take a restorative dip or ask your Tour Guide about the range of spa treatments. Whatever you choose take time to relax, unwind and enjoy this truly unique experience.

• An evening at the Pearl - 4
  

  This evening why not visit The Pearl. Take a lift to the special viewing platform and look out over the city, sip a cocktail or dine in the revolving restaurant. This is the perfect way to round off your Icelandic adventure. Overnight Reykjavik.

• Travelling - 5
  

  Fly back to the UK.

Accommodation

• Hotel Reykjavik (3-star) - 4 nights

• Flights are scheduled services of
• Flights depart at 12:00 am and return at 11:35 am

Includes

Not Included