Just a short flight from the UK, you step into another world, arriving into the capital of the ‘Land of Fire and Ice.’ Reykjavik is a unique and exciting destination, a buzzing small city with a fantastic array of cafes, bars & restaurants, a wonderful art and cultural scene with world-class museums and galleries and is the gateway to some of the most diverse natural beauty to be found anywhere on earth. The skyline is dominated by Mount Esja – an iconic reminder of the great wilderness that years to be discovered.  

Early in the morning, you will discover the town of Stykkishólmur, located on the northern tip of the Snæfellsnes peninsula.  Featuring traditional wooden houses, quaint gift shops, charming cafes and friendly locals, it provides the perfect opportunity to pick up some last-minute souvenirs and to soak up the warm Icelandic ambience. Then, in the afternoon, you'll explore the Flatey Island, where 35 species of birds have been counted ranging from eider ducks and Atlantic puffins, to Arctic terns, red-necked phalaropes, ringed plover and snow buntings.

In the morning you will scenic cruise along the Hornbjard cliffs, located just 7 miles south of the Arctic Circle.   The mystical seabird cliffs are some of the largest in Europe, and one the most remote and beautiful destinations in Iceland.  After lunch, you will feel like you have stepped back in time, as you explore stunning Vigur Island – home to many thousands of black guillemot, Arctic terns, eider ducks and puffins.  The island is just over a mile in size, and resident to a single farmer and his family.  It also features Iceland’s only windmill and Europe’s smallest post office.

Today you will explore the colourful fishing town of Husavik, known as the ‘whale-watching capital of Iceland,’ and the nearby serene lake of Botnsvatn.  Enjoy a whale-watching excursion to spot humpback and minke whales, against a stunning backdrop of snow-capped mountains.

Almost swallowed up by the looming forms of Eskja and Hólmatindur mountains, the quiet fishing village of Eskifjordur has some of Iceland's most extroverted natural scenery. Take milder hikes among the symphony of birdlife, or explore cultural attractions such as the Maritime Museum and the nearby exposed spar mine.

The picturesque village of Djúpivogur has historical routes linked to trading, dating to the 16th century.  It is surrounded by spectacular scenery, dominated by the perfectly formed pyramidal peak of Búlandstindur.   Visit the highly regarded Búlandsnes bird sanctuary where you may spot thousands of birds, and explore Papey Island, keeping watch for seals and puffins.  The spectacular Vatnajökull National Park is also nearby, featuring Europe’s largest glacier outside of the Arctic, active volcanoes, shimmering waterfalls and black lava sand beaches.

Featuring rich hiking dramatic boat journeys and fascinating heritage Klaksvik opens up the Northern Isles' slender fingers of scenic land for your exploration. Klaksvik is the second largest of the Faroe Islands' towns and this scenic fishing capital is set amongst a dramatic valley overlooking the conical protrusion of Kunoy island – the Faroe's highest peak. Admire old Norse architecture by visiting the Christianskirkjan church or sail out to the sheer cliff where adorable puffins and kittiwakes breed.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Thorklakshofn is a small fishing port located on the Reykjanes Peninsula, one of the few viable harbours on the south coast of Iceland. Visit the Hafnarnes lighthouse or take a tour of the nearby lava tunnel, Raufarhólshellir, one of the longest in Iceland.

Following the eruption of the Eldfell Volcano in the 1970’s, the town of Vestmannaeyjar became known across the world.  It erupted for around six months, burying hundreds of homes in ash.  In the morning you will explore this fascinating town and archipelago, located off the southern coast of Iceland.  

In 1963, a cook aboard a trawler had noticed volcanic explosions venting from the ocean.  Huge plumes of ash were launched 10,000metres into the sky, and continued for over three years. In the blink of an eye, the island of Surtsey was born.  Eventually growing to be over 150 metres in height and 5 square kilometres in size, it is one of only a few islands on earth to have emerged from the sea in living memory.  After lunch, your expedition crew will cruise around this new island to show you it’s unique geological landscape.

In the morning you will disembark, leaving the expedition with fond lifelong memories.  Time allowing we can also extend your stay to allow for further adventures in this incredible island.

Secure your space today by calling one of our Travel Specialists on 0203 196 1000 or enquire here