Iceland and Greenland 2015 - Discover The World

Iceland & Greenland

discover-the-world.co.uk01737 214 282

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2 All our holidays are covered by our 100% Guarantee, see page 6

Welcome to IcelandIceland is no mere holiday destination - it is a place where all the senses are liberated. Full of breathtaking vistas and experiences, it is an island where nature is still very much in charge.

I have been travelling around the country for over 40 years, and still regularly stumble across wondrous places which are not found in any guide book. In recent years, Iceland has become increasingly popular but most visitors only scratch the surface. Instead of focusing on a handful of places, usually within easy reach of the capital, Reykjavik, we actively encourage our clients to get out and explore further afield, and we’ve again expanded that concept with this brochure. Visits to well-known places are still included but our main focus is to provide the visitor with time in quieter, more rewarding areas – roads less travelled in Iceland offer true gems at every scenic twist and turn.

Deciding on the pace of your holiday is probably the most important factor when planning your trip. Iceland is actually quite a large island but speed limits on its road are rather modest. Would you rather cover long distances, glimpsing many different types of landscape? Or would you prefer to savour the delights of a smaller area, with the minimum time sitting in a car or coach seat? We cater for all and if you cannot find what you are looking for in this brochure or on our website, our tailor made travel consultants will help you create it. No matter if you have a limited budget or are looking for a more luxurious experience, we will do our best to find the right recipe! That is how we’ve become recognised as the world’s premier Iceland destination specialists.

For those of you who have not travelled with us before, I guarantee a holiday with Discover the World is different to any other you have experienced. For those who have travelled with us previously, you will notice some notable changes and innovations. If your preference is for travelling with a guide, there is an expanded range of itineraries to choose from and for our self-drive connoisseurs, we offer new as well as the tried and tested itineraries, coupled with iDiscover – our unique digital way of maximising your enjoyment – read on!

We will not relax until you are home with a large grin on your face, and if you do not experience exceptional service throughout your holiday, don’t hesitate to contact me personally. My direct email address is below.

With best wishes

Clive Stacey Managing Director [email protected]

2 All our holidays are covered by our 100% Guarantee, see page 6 ©RTH Sigurdsson

mailto:[email protected]

discover-the-world.co.uk/iceland Talk to the experts 01737 214 282 3

Welcom

e to Iceland

All our holidays can be tailor made... If you cannot find exactly what you are looking for, let us find it for you. We can tailor make holidays to suit, be that customising our suggested itineraries or creating something bespoke.

Introduction Welcome to Iceland 2More than 30 Years’ Experience 4Your 100% Guarantee 6Creating a Holiday 8

IcelandYear Round in Iceland 10Activities & Excursions 12

RegionsReykjavík 18South West 20South East 22East Fjords 24North East 26North 28West Fjords 30Snæfellsnes & West Iceland 32The Highlands 34Accommodation in Iceland 36Tailor Made Ideas 40Unique Iceland 42Iceland for Families 44

Self-drive holidaysSelf-drive Iceland Introduction 46Car Hire 50Volcanic Explorer 52Southern Highlights 54Essential Iceland 56Journey to the Centre of the Earth 58Iceland Connoisseur 60National Parks & Natural Wonders 62Around Iceland 64Iceland Backroads 66Fly, Drive & Hike 68Iceland Odyssey 70

Small Group Guided ToursIntroduction 72Introducing Iceland 74Best of the Midnight Sun 76Luxury Touring 78Southern Countryside & Highlands 80Northern Countryside & Highlands 81Absolute Iceland 82

Iceland’s Winter WonderlandIntroduction 86Winter Self-Drive 88Winter Escorted 89

GreenlandIntroducing Greenland 90Greenland Holidays 94East Greenland 95West Greenland 96South Greenland 97Greenland Explorer 98Greenland Base Camp 100

Canada & Alaska Extend your holiday in Canada or Alaska 102

Getting ThereFlying to Iceland & Beyond 104

Iceland Map 107


EXCLUSIVE to Discover the World Iceland self-drive clients – a revolutionary iPad travel guide - see page 46 for details.

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4 All our holidays are covered by our 100% Guarantee, see page 64 All our holidays are covered by our 100% Guarantee, see page 6 ©RTH Sigurdsson


Since we began, Discover the World has

carried well over a quarter of a million clients

to Iceland, and our experience in this destination

is second to none. During this period,

fundamental changes have taken place in the

Icelandic travel industry, and we have been

involved in pioneering quite a number of them.

For example, we were the first tour operator

in the world to offer river rafting, snowmobile

and superjeep trips in Iceland, and in 1993,

we operated the very first whale watching

trip there. We have also been instrumental

in developing self-drive holidays as well as

educational visits for school kids, and more

recently, we were the first tour operator in

the UK to offer specific tours to view the

northern lights.

Our most recent notable achievement has been

to identify the potential of orca watching in

winter, from the village of Grundarfjörður, west

Iceland, as pods have arrived there in increasing

numbers. In 2011, in conjunction with a local

couple, we set up and operated the very first

tours in Grundarfjörður, combining

whale watching with northern lights viewing!

Discover the World has also pioneered many

notable trips outside of Iceland. We were

the first to operate a worldwide whale

watching programme as well as carrying

the first foreign tourists to see pandas in

China. In Sweden, we introduced the UK’s first

direct flight between Heathrow and

Kiruna, to afford easy access for our clients

to visit the iconic IceHotel. In New Zealand,

we pioneered the ‘Travel Less- See More’

concept – which encourages people to

spend less time visiting a multitude of places,

which is the norm, and more time appreciating

the experience of a few. The list goes on and

we are continuously evolving – as you will note

elsewhere in this brochure.

We have also set the standards in respect of

business ethics – for example, we guarantee

no surcharges whatsoever, once your holiday

is booked with us. There are no ‘ifs and buts’

– that’s it. If you are stuck on holiday due to

circumstances beyond your control we will

look after you, and if anything happens

during the whole booking and holiday

process, which you don’t like, then you

will be able to make direct contact with

our Managing Director, Clive Stacey.

Many people have been involved in the

success of our company over the years

but throughout, the concept has remained

the same. We use our experience to

continuously improve our holidays based

on what our clients tell us, and work with our

local partners to find the best solutions. And

fundamental to our approach is to tailor make

trips to the individual needs of the traveller.

In this day of easy access to most of the

components which make up a holiday,

via the Internet, we still maintain there

is a place for a company such as Discover

the World, and that we provide a personal

service, which enhances the overall enjoyment

and quality of the experience.

Our holidays are often imitated but we like

to think never bettered, and as we move into

yet another decade, we are proud to remain a

strong, independent and innovative company,

in an industry largely dominated

by corporate organisations.

Welcome to our world!

More than 30 years of experience & innovation behind your holiday

The company was founded by Clive Stacey and Mark Leaney in August 1984, as Arctic Experience Ltd – focusing entirely on holidays to Iceland and Greenland. In 1998, Clive and Mark set up a second company, Discover the World Ltd, together with the zoologist and author, Mark Carwardine, this time spreading their wings further afield, focusing on wildlife orientated holidays. In 2003 the two companies were united under the banner of Discover the World.

Celebratin

g 30+ years

©RTH Sigurdsson

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/about-us?utm_source=IcelandBro2015

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/about-us?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Your Discover the World 100% GuaranteeWe know how important your holiday is. You’ve researched where you want to go and what to do when you get there. You’ve booked time off work. Now you’re ready to really enjoy yourself. And it’s our business to make sure you do.

We give every booking our unique 100% Discover the World Guarantee, that protects you, your family, your holiday and your finances. We’re there should you need to talk to us and we’ll take care of any flight disruptions and travel delays, where we can. And we’ll make sure you never, ever have any surcharges to pay. All of which, means that when you travel with us, you are in the safest, most experienced hands - 24/7.

6 ©RTH Sigurdsson

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/your-guarantee?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


No surchargesOnce you have paid a deposit and booked

a holiday we guarantee there will be no

increases whatsoever. This is something of

a rarity in the travel business, but we feel

that if you have made a commitment to us

by booking a holiday, the very least we can

do is to absorb any price increases which may

occur. Below you will find a typical clause

from the booking conditions of one of our

competitors:

Surcharges may be imposed to cover increases in transportation costs (eg. fuel levy), dues, taxes, fees (eg. landing taxes), or a variation in exchange rates applicable to your package. In the event of a surcharge we will absorb the first 2% and should the surcharge be more than 10% of the price of your holiday, you will have the right to cancel your holiday and receive a full refund of what you have paid.

The clause from our Booking Conditions

states: Once you have made your booking, the price is fully guaranteed and will not be subject to any additional surcharges.

Looking after you throughoutOnce you book an inclusive holiday,

you should be protected by various

rules, regulations and laws. However,

like most things in life, knowing your

rights and getting the powers that be to

acknowledge them and pay up, can be

a bit of a nightmare. You are entitled to

compensation if your flight is delayed over

a certain period - some airlines are legally

bound to provide meals and accommodation,

as well as compensation, should your flight

be delayed for certain reasons, and some are

not. For example – should a volcanic eruption

occur in Iceland which results in you being

unable to fly home, our policy is clear: if the

airline won’t cover your costs and your travel

insurance excludes this, then we will. We offer

a 24/7 emergency line so we are always there

to help whatever happens, and we will also

advise you of your rights if you are due further

compensation – as well as assist you to obtain

it. But our commitment goes beyond that…

Financial securityThrough our memberships of various

organisations, and the licences we hold,

every penny paid to us is completely safe. In

addition, we are bound by very strict business

practices through UK and EU law as well as

the associations to which we belong.

We are members of ABTA (The Travel

Association), and AITO (Association of

Independent Tour Operators), another

travel industry body which includes most

of the UK’s most important independent

specialist tour operators – members are

financially vetted by both organisations and

have to comply with a fair business charter,

and should you have a problem during

your holiday which cannot be resolved

with us, you are able to take advantage

of an arbitration scheme. We also hold a

bond with ABTOT which protects holidays

not booked with flights. ATOL (Air Travel

Organisers Licence) – this is issued by the

Civil Aviation Authority, and protects all

clients who book their holiday in conjunction

with a flight. To hold an ATOL we must go

through regular checks to prove we are

financially sound. Through our membership

of IATA (International Air Transport

Association), we are able to buy and issue

air tickets for you, and this organisation also

vets us to check we are a safe bet, to take

clients’ money for air tickets. In essence,

to hold all these licences and memberships,

we need to be financially sound and provide

travel arrangements to the highest standards.

When deciding on which holiday company to

book with, we urge you to bear this in mind.

The best trip at the best priceWe don’t think any other company has

comparable trips when you take into account

our unique itineraries. But, should you come

across a matching itinerary of our quality,

offered by another UK based company,

even within 30 days AFTER booking with

us, we will gladly refund the difference. This

guarantee is designed to assure you that even

though our trips are of the highest standard,

you will still not pay more than you have to.

We deliver on our promisesWe are so confident the quality of our trips

will meet your expectations, that should you

be dissatisfied, we’ll gladly give you a credit

towards a future trip. Of course, expectations

have to match what we’ve promised, but we

feel that our standards are so high that we

are happy to stand behind this guarantee.

Further detailed information about all the above can be found on our website, together with our Booking Conditions.

Ou

r Un

ique P

ledge

8 All our holidays are covered by our 100% Guarantee, see page 68 All our holidays are covered by our 100% Guarantee, see page 6

Creating a holidayOur comprehensive range of Iceland holidays caters for a wide variety of tastes, budgets, interests and durations. Whether you are travelling on your own, with family, a partner or a group of friends, we’ll be happy to advise and put forward suggestions, based on first-hand knowledge and experience, developed over 30 years of trading.

If you would like to discuss any aspect of your holiday plans, or are simply looking for inspiration, then get in touch with one of our friendly and knowledgeable, Iceland and Greenland specialists, who are waiting to put together a holiday precisely right for you.

Call 01737 214 282 Email [email protected] Visit our office in leafy Surrey Arctic House, 8 Bolters Lane, Banstead SM7 2AR

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Creatin

g a Holid

ay

Step 1Make an enquiry or request a quote – online, by phone or in person.

The first stage is to broadly outline your travel plans, letting us know about any specific ideas or interests you’d like to include. You may find an itinerary on our website or in this brochure that fits the bill, in which case you can contact us for up-to-date prices and availability. Alternatively, as tailor made specialists, we can put together your trip from scratch or in many cases, amend an existing tour.

Step 2Making your booking.

Booking with Discover the World is easy - just speak to your travel specialist who will talk you through the simple process and take a deposit payment. Our full booking conditions and travel insurance details can be found on our website.

Note: It may be possible to hold some travel arrangements for a short time prior to confirming your booking (for instance flights and escorted tours), although this is subject to availability. Please discuss with your travel specialist.

Step 3Confirming your booking.

Once your deposit has been taken, we confirm your holiday arrangements with our travel partners then despatch your booking invoice and any additional travel documentation. Final documents are sent out 10-14 days in advance of your departure date. Don’t forget, if you’d like to add excursions to your itinerary or upgrade certain aspects of your trip, you may do this at any time (subject to availability).

©RTH Sigurdsson

©DTW

©Fyle

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Year round in IcelandIceland is undoubtedly a year round destination. The incredible landscape and natural wonders are a draw for many a visitor, whatever the season and there is something about this island that has an attraction you’ll find difficult to resist. Here we answer a few of the most common questions we’re asked by those considering a trip then on the following pages, read about some of the activities and excursions that help you enjoy this country to the full.


MONTH TEMPERATURE (daily, in Reykjavík,

max/min °C)

RAINFALL (mm)

SUNRISE/SUNSET (on 1st day of each month, in Reykjavík)*

NORTHERN LIGHTS** or MIDNIGHT SUN?

January 2/-2 89 11:19/15:44 Northern Lights

February 3/-3 64 10:09/17:15 Northern Lights

March 4/-1 62 08:36/18:45 Northern Lights

April 6/1 56 06:47/20:18 Northern Lights until approx. mid-month

May 10/4 42 05:01/21:51 -

June 12/7 42 03:23/23:30 Midnight Sun / Light Nights

July 14/9 50 03:04/23:57 Midnight Sun / Light Nights

August 14/8 56 04:33/22:33 Northern Lights from late August

September 11/6 67 06:08/20:45 Northern Lights

October 7/3 94 07:35/18:58 Northern Lights

November 4/0 78 09:09/17:12 Northern Lights

December 2/-2 79 10:44/15:49 Northern Lights

Please note statistics shown above are averages, based on records. *Thanks to the Science Institute of the University of Iceland. **Possible viewing – subject to weather conditions.

The midnight sun can be experienced in Iceland’s far north, where the sun barely sets below the horizon during part of June and July. It sets briefly in the south therefore Reykjavik and its surrounds can still experience wonderful extended days or ‘light nights’.

©RTH Sigurdsson


Year R

oun

d in

Iceland

Q. When is the best time to travel?

A. Well it depends what you want

to see or do. Although Iceland is big

enough to avoid the crowds, July and

August are still the busiest months.

The ‘shoulder season’ of May and

September are in our opinion fantastic

times to visit, taking advantage of the good

weather and competitive hotel rates.

May and June are the best for birds and

mid-June to August for wild flowers.

But if you want to travel through the

uninhabited interior, you should plan your

visit for July and August as most of the

highland tracks are only open during this

period.Iceland is good for whale watching

year round, with the months of May to

September probably the most prolific

for sightings. However, orca watching

has another peak between December

and March off of Iceland’s west coast.

October to April can present challenging

weather as well as some beautiful autumn

or spring days. Even in the height of winter,

when the landscape can be buried beneath

a blanket of snow, the sun can still shine.

Q. Isn’t it always cold in Iceland?

A. No, not at all! Warmed by the Gulf Stream, winter temperatures are similar to those of Vienna or Milan, while in summer they are usually in the range 10-16°C (lower in the highlands) but don’t be surprised if it drops below, or rises above this range.

There is often a stiff breeze so it can feel colder but in sheltered spots, you’ll be peeling off the layers. The south coast gets the highest rainfall, while the northeast is often somewhat drier. Visitors can expect a mix of sunny and cloudy conditions as well as rain and wind.

In winter, snow comes and goes, and from around October to April (inclusive) a 4WD vehicle is required for self-drive holidays. Just remember Iceland’s weather changes quickly – it is possible to experience all four seasons in a day!

Q. When can I see the midnight sun?

A. In June and early July the sun barely sets, skimming Iceland’s northern horizon and illuminating the fjords and mountains in a wonderful golden glow. These spectacular, seemingly all-night ‘sunsets’ can last for hours and are a photographer’s dream. The extended daylight also lends itself to being out and about sometimes very late in the evening, and you’ll be

surprised how energising it can be.

When can I see the northern lights?

A. Iceland is an absolutely fantastic place to view the northern lights, and it may be possible to see them between late August and mid-April. We offer a range of special focus holidays over the winter months and these can be found in our Arctic Experience brochure – take a look at our Winter Wonderland section on pages 86-89 of this brochure to get an overview and remember, many of our self-drive itineraries can be driven year round.

Volcano Live!Iceland is one of the best places on Earth to witness the power of nature first hand – it’s a land being continuously shaped by volcanic activity. From flight seeing around tourist-friendly live eruptions (such as Holuhraun in the Highlands which began erupting in August 2014 - still active at the time of going to press) to exploring ancient lava-fields, don’t miss this aspect of Iceland when you visit. Sign up to our Volcano Hotline by emailing [email protected] to be one of the first to hear news of any new eruptions and volcano tours.

©Giacomo Ciangottini

©RTH Sigurdsson



Activities and excursions


Iceland is a giant playground of waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, raging rivers, majestic fjords, thriving oceans and steaming geothermal pools. Whilst the natural experience is free, we are pleased to offer a selection of day trips and excursions, which can greatly enhance any holiday and turn it into something extra special.

Our itineraries allow you to add in as much or as little activity as you wish - you can fill your holiday with exciting new adventures, pick one or two special experiences, or simply soak up the scenery and natural wonders, taking each day as it comes.

Here are just some ideas – we have many more on our website or speak to our Iceland specialists about your interests.

It is advisable to pre-book where possible to

ensure availability, which cannot be guaranteed

when booking locally, especially during peak

summer months. All excursions are weather-

permitting (and may vary due to conditions) and

are subject to minimum numbers. Additional

insurance premiums may be required for certain

activities – our travel specialists can advise.

©Arctic Adventures


Activities an

d E

xcursion

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Whale watching & puffin trips

Search for cetaceans and seabirds on a number of trips around the island. The coast off Reykjavík is known for sightings of white-beaked dolphins, minke whales, humpback and orca along with puffins, fulmars, gannets and kittiwakes. Húsavík is ‘Europe’s whale watching capital’ - sail aboard a restored, oak fishing boat out into beautiful Skjálfandi Bay, whilst enjoying hot chocolate and cinnamon rolls!

©North Sailing

Eruption tours

With the choice to fly by helicopter or light aircraft from a number of locations, it may be possible to fly over an active eruption as well as remote and generally inaccessible places, meaning some incredible photo opportunities. Tours may be dependent on seismic activity at the time.

Langjökull Ice Cave

Take a unique trip by 8WD truck to an incredible ice cave which stretches 200-300m into the glacier and around 30m below the surface, making it the largest manmade ice structure in the world. See the ice change from white to deep blue as you walk towards the heart of the glacier on a fascinating guided 45 minute exploration. Available summer only - check our website for details.

©IceCave Iceland

©RTH Sigurdsson



Snowmobiling

Take an exhilarating snowmobile ride on a glacier, whilst enjoying dramatic views of the surrounding scenery – highly recommended! Drivers must hold a full driving licence and we recommend pillion riders to be over the age of 10. Excursions are available on the Langjökull, Mýrdalsjökull and Vatnajökull glaciers, along the south. Clothing and safety helmets are provided.

Superjeep adventures

These customised 4WD vehicles glide over snow, traverse rivers and climb steep slopes. Drivers show just how versatile the vehicles are on exciting day trips into the wilds beyond the capital. Our most popular is the Golden Circle by Superjeep, with optional snowmobiling. Other tours cover the natural wonders of the south shore and southern highlands, with trips also in the north and east.

Sightseeing flights

Depart from Reykjavík and enjoy a bird’s eye view of glaciers, volcanic craters, spouting geysers and the raw power of Mother Nature. Visit the Westman Islands as well as areas surrounding the capital, and for the ultimate experience, book an incredible Glaciers & Volcanoes flight over the infamous Eyjafjallajökull crater.

©RTH Sigurdsson

©RTH Sigurdsson

©RTH Sigurdsson


Activities an

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xcursion

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Inside a volcano

The only place in the world that you can descend ‘inside a volcano’ is in Iceland. The dormant Thrihnukagigur volcano, located on the Reykjanes Peninsula, is just a 30 minute drive from Reykjavík. Don safety helmet and harness then descend 120m by cable lift to the floor of this huge volcanic magma crater, and stand in awe at what opens up before you. Spend around 45 minutes inside the volcano! Open Mid-May to mid-September.

Boat trips

A boat trip amongst the icebergs on the stunning Jökulsárlon glacier lagoon is highly recommended. From Stykkishólmur, explore beautiful Breiðafjörður Bay, or take one of the many ferry services - between Snæfellsnes and the West Fjords, over to the Westman Islands for a fascinating day trip, or to Grímsey from Dalvík, crossing the Arctic Circle!

Midnight sun

Enjoy an afternoon and evening tour, with a countryside dinner included, of either the Golden Circle route or Lake Mývatn and its surrounds, making the most of the glorious evening light. Explore iconic sights and hidden gems at quieter times of the day and immerse yourself in some of the best sights you’ll see in the south or north.

©RTH Sigurdsson

©RTH Sigurdsson

©ronnybas



Glacier hiking & ice climbing

For a real adventure, try a glacier hike. Under the supervision of a qualified guide, using crampons, venture onto an icecap and explore a wonderland of natural ice sculptures, ridges and crevasses and even try your hand at ice climbing on one of the area’s impressive ice walls (equipment provided).

Horse riding & trekking

From year round excursions of an hour to a full day or even longer, multi-day treks and tours, take to the saddle and experience the unique ‘tolt’ gait of the sturdy Icelandic thoroughbred. Horse riding is great fun for all the family, beginners and more advanced riders alike. See our full range online.

Hiking & walking

Any of our self-drive or independent holidays may be adapted to include walks or hikes of varying lengths, over all kinds of terrain - countryside, coastal or mountain, with remarkably easy access. Specific trekking holidays are also available, such as the Laugavegur Trail with stunning and immense scenery.

©Cathy Harlow

©Arctic Adventures

©RTH Sigurdsson


Activities an

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xcursion

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Geothermal pools & spas

Geysers, mud pools and gushing hot springs are abundant in Iceland. In Landmannalaugar, Hveravellir, Askja and Laugafell, bathe in geothermal hot pools and rivers, and take a dip in the famous Blue Lagoon - bathing outdoors in steaming waters is an experience not to be missed! There are also many opportunities to enjoy the full spa experience.

Running tours

For those with a true love of the great outdoors why not take a fully supported trail running trip in Iceland? Full or part day trails available as well as multi-day tours discovering some of the most magnificent parts of the country including Snæfellsnes, Þingvellir and the Golden Circle route.

River rafting, sea kayaking and snorkeling

Rafting is fun! Try it on the Hvítá river or for more challenging rapids, the Jökulsá Austari. A wet suit, safety vest and helmet are provided. Kayakying trips are available at Stokkseyri, Hvalfjörður and Ísafjörður - kayaks are stable, easy to use and no prior experience is necessary. Snorkeling and diving excursions between the tectonic plates at Þingvellir are also available.

©RTH Sigurdsson

©Arctic Running

©RTH Sigurdsson



ReykjavíkIceland’s modern, compact and quirky capital has much to offer the visitor, from well-presented museums and galleries to an enormous variety of impressive restaurants, cafes and bars. It is a city with an atmosphere that is relaxed and friendly, and always a ton of things to see and do, some just on the doorstep. We include a night here on several of our itineraries but offer it as an option to add to others. There is a good range of hotels for you to choose from and our experienced consultants are happy to assist.

18 All our holidays are covered by our 100% Guarantee, see page 6 ©HannamariaH


The landmarks For many years Hallgrímskirkja (a Lutheran church) and The Pearl (a glass-domed restaurant), have been Reykjavík’s most distinctive landmarks. Today, Harpa joins that list – a spectacular modern glass concert hall, and perhaps Lækjarbrekka, a delightful restaurant in a 150 year old building.

Places to visit Museums galore can be found all over the capital: Reykjavík 871+-2 is a fascinating exhibition about the settlement of the city; Árbær is a ‘living history’ open air museum; the Víkin is dedicated to all things maritime and there is a geological exhibition at the Volcano House – the list is endless!

Not to miss People watching at a café in bustling Austurvöllur, the central square; time in Laugavegur, the longest shopping street; strolling around Tjörnin, the beautiful central lake home to abundant bird life and the Old Harbour, rejuvenated and revitalised with boutiques and stylish eateries.

Further afield Visit the world-famous Blue Lagoon - relax in the milky-blue warm waters set in a jet black lavascape and enjoy a silica mud mask, spa treatments and more. Enjoy riding tours or a superjeep adventure in the Reykjavík surrounds as well as whale watching, snorkelling, river rafting or glacier hiking.

Reykjavík


Reykjavik

Isafjordur

Stykkisholmur

Selfoss

Hofn

Egilsstadir

Akureyri

©RTH Sigurdsson

©RTH Sigurdsson

©RTH Sigurdsson

©Blue Lagoon



South WestMost first-timers to Iceland choose to explore this region partly because it is where the international airport at Keflavík is located but also because there is so much stunning scenery to explore, including the natural wonders on the famed Golden Circle route, the rugged Reykjanes Peninsula, swathes of rural scenery and many iconic sights that really put Iceland on the map.

©Alexey Stiop


Sou

th W

est


The Golden Circle Visit þingvellir, a national park where tectonic plates split the country at around 2.5cm a year; Geysir, a fascinating area of fumaroles, hot springs and Strokkur, a particularly active geyser, and Gullfoss, the ‘golden falls’ which drops in several tiers before disappearing into a mile-long gorge.

The south coast With parts rugged, dramatic, boasting black sand beaches and curious rock formations and others, distinctive former sea cliffs over which tumble many a waterfall, Iceland’s south coast is certainly striking. On the inland side of the coast road, mighty glaciers sweep down from the mountainous skyline.

Valleys and volcanoes Þórsmörk, surrounded on three sides by mountains and glaciers, boasts a beautiful birch wood forest and a valley floor crisscrossed by streams and rivers. At the end sits Eyjafjallajökull, the infamous volcano - today it slumbers again beneath the glacier of the same name.

The Westman Islands Fly from the capital or catch the ferry from the south coast to this volcanic archipelago for a wonderful day out. Visit the ‘Pompei of the North’ eruption exhibition in Heimaey, go hiking and feel the heat of the lava in places or, for birdwatchers, visit the world’s largest habitation of puffins.

Thingvellir GullfossGeysir

HveragerdiReykjavik

Keflavik

Blue LagoonSelfoss

Skogar

Thjorsardalur

ThorsmorkEyjafjallajokull

Westman IslandsDyrholaey/ Vik

©RTH Sigurdsson

©KushnirovAvraham

©RTH Sigurdsson

©RTH Sigurdsson



South EastMore than anywhere else in Iceland, this region has been moulded by the action of ice and fire over countless millennia. Some of the fiercest eruptions in historical times have occurred here, emanating from a great number of volcanoes, some under icecaps producing gigantic floods, which also helped to shape the land. It is also an area of outstanding natural beauty and diversity.

©RTH Sigurdsson


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Vatnajökull National Park Covering an area of 14,200km2 of outstanding natural beauty, this park is mind-blowing. Established in 2008, it contains Europe’s largest glacier measuring around 400-600m thick with a surface area of 8,100km2 - below the surface are a number of features, including the active Bárðarbunga volcanic system.

Jökulsárlon glacier lagoon Vatnajökull has around 30 outlet glaciers spilling out from its icy plateau, some creating spectacular lagoons into which icebergs calve. The most well-known is Jökulsárlon; walk along its shores or take a boat trip and admire icebergs from up close; see them scattered too on the nearby black sands.

Skaftafell and beyond Iceland’s most popular wilderness area is just one part of this region to offer superb hiking and walking trails; here you’ll find Svartifoss, an enchanting waterfall surrounded by basalt columns. Nearby Skeiðarársandur and Mýrdalssandur, are large, desert-like plains covered in black volcanic sands.

Towns and villages Visit the little village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur, or ‘Klaustur’ for short, which lies underneath a low mountain in an area of scenic beauty and geological interest. The fishing town of Höfn, set in a breathtaking location on a bay at the edge of Vatnajökull, is a great base for glacier excursions.

Skaftafell / Svartifoss

Jokulsarlon

Kirkjubaejarklaustur Skeidararsandur

Laki

Vatnajokull

GrimsvotnHofn

©RTH Sigurdsson

©Jules Kitano

©RTH Sigurdsson

©Sergio Boccardo



East FjordsScoured by Ice Age glaciers, the dramatic east coast boasts long, narrow, sheer-sided fjords and jagged peaks, which contrast with the area’s inland fertile farmlands and forests. Natural harbours create picture-postcard fishing villages, and seemingly never-ending roads cross the region, providing beautiful sweeping views. Snæfell, Iceland’s highest freestanding mountain and an important grazing area for reindeer, is situated close to Vatnajökull.

All images ©RTH Sigurdsson


East F

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The coastline Iceland’s east coast is defined by its ancient fjords – some sheltering deserted beaches, others picturesque fishing hamlets. The twisting, turning mix of tarmac and gravel roads make journey times here a little longer than anticipated but the drive an absolute pleasure with magnificent views galore.

Fishing villages Charming Seyðisfjörður boasts pastel coloured clapboard properties and a delightful church; Neskaupstaður is a thriving fishing port; take a boat trip to a Puffin sanctuary from Djúpivogur or go hiking in the picturesque surrounds of Breiddalsvík or along trails by the sea at Borgarfjörður Eystri.

Inland east Egilsstaðir is the regional centre and has an international airport, good shopping especially for arts and crafts, and a variety of cafes and restaurants. Outdoor pursuits are also well catered for, with horse riding, hiking and walking trails, seal watching tours and day trips to Vatnajökull.

Places to visit Egilsstaðir is set on the banks of river Lagarfljót; the upper part has formed Lögurinn where legend has it, this long narrow lake has a resident monster, a giant serpent similar to Scotland’s Nessie! Close to the lake is Hallormstadir, one of Iceland’s largest forests and a great area for hiking.

Djupivogur BreiddalsvikFaskrudsfjordur

Mjoifjordur/ Neskaupstadur

Seydisfjordur

Borgarfjordur Eystri

Egilsstadir

Hallormstadur



North EastThis is a region of diverse and incredible natural beauty, greatly influenced by volcanic and geothermal forces. It may be less ‘green’ than the south, but it is just as wonderful to explore. During the height of the summer witness the full effect of the midnight sun as it dips towards the horizon, barely touching it before rising again, swathing the landscape in a beautiful golden light.

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North

East


The coastline Fjords and fishing villages feature as well as sweeping bays and beaches. Remote Melrakkaslétta is a nature-rich plain close to the Arctic Circle, Raufarhöfn is Iceland’s most northerly town and the Tjörnes peninsula is rich with bird life. Nearby Húsavík is the ‘whale watching capital of Europe’.

Waterfalls Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall sits in Jökulsá Canyon. A raging glacial river of the same name is at the heart of this rugged canyon, over 25km long and up to 100m deep, of mainly basalt columns. And the 30m wide Goðafoss or ‘the waterfall of the Gods’ is particularly photogenic.

Lake Mývatn This beautiful large lake of nutrient-rich spring water and its wetlands are a magnet for bird life and bird watchers alike. Go walking along its shores and find grassy pseudocraters and lava plugs. Relax in the warming waters of the nearby Nature Baths, a low key alternative to the Blue Lagoon.

Natural curiosities Marvel at the red earth, bubbling mud pools and steaming fumaroles at Námaskarð and go walking at Dimmuborgir, an area of weird and wonderful lava formations. Visit Ásbyrgi, a horse-shoe shaped, forested canyon with a distinctive rock formation in its centre, and Viti, an impressive lake-filled crater.

Raufarhofn

Tjornes

Jokulsa Canyon

Dettifoss

Asbyrgi

Godafoss

Lake Myvatn

©RTH Sigurdsson

©RTH Sigurdsson

©RTH Sigurdsson

©RTH Sigurdsson



NorthHere you will find Iceland’s second town, Akureyri – the ‘Capital of the North’ (population 18,000), and an abundance of opportunities to explore the great outdoors in Eyjafjörður, Iceland’s longest fjord. A tunnel has brought the quaint fishing town of Siglufjörður within easy reach; Grímsey, the northernmost inhabited part of Iceland is a tiny island 40km offshore; Hrísey is another little island, reachable by ferry and a bird watcher’s haven. Travelling further west, the green and lush pastures of Skagafjörður provide a delightful rural scene.

©Fyle


North


The coastline The village of Dalvík holds one of Iceland’s liveliest summer festivals, Fish Day. Siglufjörður has a quaint harbour and the windswept peninsula of Vatnsnes is excellent for seal watching; at Húnafjörður, is Hvítserkur, a 15m monolith once the plug of a volcano, said to resemble a dragon taking a drink!

Inland north Varmahlíð sits in the middle of a flourishing agricultural area – it’s the jumping off point for some great river rafting trips and has some fine wooded hiking trails. Skagafjörður is one of Iceland’s most prosperous sheep and dairy farming regions, known also for its successful horse breeding.

Akureyri This town is full of character with a range of eateries, shops and places to visit. Landmarks include the church which sits at the top of 100+ steps, and the downtown authentically restored colourful timber houses. Visit the wonderful Botanical Gardens and stroll down to the bustling harbour.

Historic north Hólar is a village of great historical and cultural interest, and is one of only two Episcopal seats in Iceland (Skálholt is the other). And at Glaumbær, see one of Iceland’s best preserved turf farms dating from the 18th and 19th centuries – today it serves as a folk museum.

©Cathy Harlow

Akureyri

Hrisey

Grimsey

Siglufjordur

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Dalvik

Varmahlid

Hvitserkur

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Vatnsnes

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West FjordsIceland’s most remote region is a stunningly beautiful peninsula with a profusion of deep fjords, precipitous mountains and amazing coastal gems. Sparsely populated, it is connected to the rest of the country by a strip of land barely 10km wide. It is often referred to as isolated but we prefer less-visited, and that is what we’d like to change. Driving around the unbelievably winding roads which weave amongst the intricate fjords may take time but the rewards are undisputable in an area where the only option is ‘the scenic route’.

©Bildagentur Zoonar GmbH


West F

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The coastline This spectacular and craggy coastline is indented with fjords, coves and more fjords. Flateyri, a quiet village in an idyllic setting, has a fascinating history; Rauðisandur boasts a vast beach of red sands and Látrabjarg, sheer cliffs home to Iceland’s largest concentration of sea birds.

Breiðafjörður This beautiful bay sits between the West Fjords and Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Enjoy a boat trip or a simple ferry crossing amongst the 3,000 islands, and see countless seabirds, seals and cetaceans. Stop off at Flatey, the largest populated island (15!), where time seems to stand still.

Hornstrandir This uninhabited wilderness peninsula is a nature reserve, accessible by ferry from Ísafjörður, and is a great place for some serious hiking. The cliffs are rugged and there are sandy bays and meadows of wildflowers to discover – share it with the abundant birdlife, sheep and little else.

Dynjandi One of Iceland’s most distinctive falls – the water tumbles 100m, fanning out from 30 to 60m wide over multiple steps of rock; several ‘mini’ waterfalls then carry the water off to the sea. This is a popular place for photography on a summer evening when the sunlight hits the falls perfectly.

Strandir

Isafjardardjup

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Hornstandir

Sudureyri

Flateyri

Dynjandi

Latrabjarg

Breidafjordur

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©VisitWestFjords

©Cathy Harlow



Snæfellsnes & West IcelandReaching out into the sea, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula points west, it’s craggy, windswept coastline providing plenty of opportunities for exploring. The Snæfellsjokul glacier, which sits practically at the tip, made famous by Jules Verne as the setting for his novel, ‘Journey to the Centre of the Earth’, dominates and is said to hold special powers. The peninsula and the west is a spectacular region, beloved by artists, musicians, writers and anyone looking to follow the Sagas - inspiration from nature at its most magical.

©RTH Sigurdsson


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The coastline Stykkishólmur has bags of character and interesting architecture. Head out from Ólafsvík to see humpback and orca. Tiny Arnarstapi and Hellnar are linked by a hiking trail along a surf-pounded coastline, and Búðir, nestled between lava fields, has a quaint wooden church and a golden beach where seals haul out.

Inland west Walk on Eldborg, a spectacular 60m high, 200m wide crater rising above the lavascape. The cascading falls, Hraunfossar, surrounded by rolling hills, stretch for almost 1km and spill out from under lava ledges into the Hvítá River. And Deildartunguhver, the island’s largest hot springs are found nearby.

Historic west Borgarnes, a beautiful western town with many walking trails is rich in Saga history, and home to the fascinating Settlement Centre and an exhibition on Egils Saga. Reykholt is a place of great historical interest for Icelanders, it’s the homestead of medieval writer Snorri Sturluson.

Snæfellsjökull National Park The area around this famous snow-capped peak is protected and is strikingly beautiful. The glacier reaches 1446m and on a clear day it is visible from Reykjavík, around 200km away. Enjoy magnificent walking and hiking trails, and plenty of fascinating places to visit around the coast and inland.

EldborgHellnar

Budir

Stykkisholmur

Hraunfossar

ReykholtBorgarnes

Snaefellsjokull Grundarfjordur

©Stas Moroz

©RTH Sigurdsson

©RTH Sigurdsson

©RTH Sigurdsson



The HighlandsA vast and fascinating area, remote and rugged – once visited, never forgotten. This is nature in the raw, a region where visitors are left spell-bound by immense and dramatic scenery. Unless taking a guided tour or trek, a high clearance 4WD vehicle is an absolute must, especially when negotiating the two main routes across the interior, Sprengisandur and Kjölur. They are also required on Fjallabak North and Fjallabak South, two rough tracks north of the Mýrdalsjökull icecap which boast unbridged rivers, dramatic and spectacular scenery.

©Filip Fuxa


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Landmannalaugar Stunning multi-coloured, rhyolite mountains in the southern highlands where spectacular views, hiking and walking trails abound. The impressive volcanic fissures of Laki, the ‘fire canyon’ of Eldgjá, the largest volcanic canyon in the world, and the beautiful, double drop falls, Ófærufoss are nearby.

Sprengisandur and Kjölur These two challenging, unpaved tracks, linking southern and northern Iceland, travel between glaciers and offer unparalleled views. Hveravellir, the ‘Hot Spring Fields’ around half way on the Kjölur route are a popular stop – fascinating to see, even better to take a dip!

Askja and Viti An active, stratovolcano in a very remote location, only accessible for a few months each year – the stunning lake Öskjuvatn sits in the centre. Nearby Viti is an explosion crater containing a naturally heated, mineral-rich, opaque blue lake – providing a very unusual place to take a swim!

Kverkfjöll On the northern edge of the Vatnajökull icecap, see steam pouring from the ice – a hot spring area with interesting ice caves. Further north, Herðubreið is a distinctive, 1682m high table mountain which rises from the central plateau in the midst of a large lava desert and is a challenging climb!

Landmannalaugar

Eldja

Hveravellir

Laki

Katla

Askja & Viti

KverkfjollBardarbunga

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©Arctic Images

©Fyletto

©RTH Sigurdsson

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Accommodation



Perhaps you’re looking for an intimate boutique hotel for a romantic getaway; a cottage with character; a stylish city centre hotel, or maybe you simply wish to stay in a stunning countryside location.

Through our collection of pre-planned itineraries presented in this brochure, as well as on our website, we have selected what we consider to be the best value lodging option in each location. And remember that many of our itineraries can be adapted according to your specific wishes.

When planning your trip to Iceland, certain ‘hot spots’ such as Mývatn and Skaftafell have a limited number of accommodation options, and are very popular. If you have a particular area you wish to visit, we highly recommend that you book as early as possible.

Four star properties are few and far between, with the exception of Reykjavík, and the countryside Hotels Rangá and Ion. There are no 5-star hotels in Iceland, and often the initial impression of the outside of a property belies a delightful interior.

What you will find is a friendly welcome, mouth-watering food, breathtaking locations and a comfortable, clean and personable space to lay your head each night.

Visit our website for images and further information regarding the accommodation we offer. Remember that tailor made, self-drive holidays are our particular speciality - contact us to create your own unique itinerary and discover Iceland for yourself.

Full details on our website.

Accom

mod

ation in

Iceland

Reykjavík

Many of our pre-planned, self-drive itineraries begin or end with time in the capital, or possibly both. From the fantastic value Hotel Klettur, well-located CenterHotels, the charming and ever-popular Hotel Reykjavík Centrum, with its homely apartments, you’ll be spoilt for choice in the world’s most northerly capital.

Cottages

These are ideal for families or groups and are located in areas that make a perfect base for exploring. Our self-catering options: cottages, cabins or summerhouses, are fully equipped and many have verandas with barbecues, and some even boast outdoor hot tubs. Accommodation size and facilities vary between properties and early booking is essential!

Rural hotels & guesthouses

These properties are usually dotted around Iceland’s towns and villages. We offer rooms with private shower/WC, although some properties offer rooms with shared bathroom, mostly in the 3 or 4 star range. These are in hotels or well equipped guesthouses. All supply breakfast (included), and most have a restaurant, some with seasonal opening hours.

Farms

An authentic family-run farm, often in an incredibly scenic location, is an excellent choice for a family holiday in Iceland. Available around the country, these farms offer a true slice of Icelandic hospitality. Enjoy fresh, local produce, characterful hosts and their resident animals!

We offer a comprehensive range of accommodation throughout Iceland and have developed longstanding relationships with many key hoteliers and property owners, over our 30 years plus of operation.



Here is just a sample of the accommodation we offer around Iceland – all the properties can be found on our website, with further images and full details.

Hotel Klettur – Reykjavík

The hotel is quick drive from downtown Reykjavík and a short walk from the main shopping street. Although there is no restaurant, its location means there are plenty of options nearby. The 146 standard rooms are brightly decorated, featuring great views towards Mount Esja, while the 20 deluxe rooms are simply stylish and spacious, with some featuring private balconies.

Hotel Frost and Fire – Hveragerði

Set in an active geothermal region, this hotel is the perfect base from which to explore Iceland’s south west. The focus here is on relaxation; with modern, well-appointed bedrooms, a high quality, extended restaurant, glorious river views, a steam room, indoor and outdoor hot tubs and a heated pool, your only concern will be that - one day, you will have to go home.

Icelandair Hotel Vík – Vík

Hotel Vík has been thoroughly modernised with the addition of a stunning glass building, housing the 36 rooms, contemporary in style, with floor to ceiling windows making good use of the beautiful surrounding views. There is also a lobby bar and first-rate restaurant which serves an á la carte menu for dinner, as well as a generous breakfast buffet.

Alda Hotel – Reykjavík

Located on the city’s main shopping street, Laugavegur, this hotel combines contemporary design with Scandinavian touches; rooms are stylish, some offering panoramic views across the city and sea. It is surprisingly tranquil here but it is also close to the buzzing heart of Iceland’s capital with all its restaurants and bars. Facilities include a gym, sauna, trendy bar and a hot tub.

Grimmsborgir Luxury Apartments

Grimsborgir, just 45 minutes from Reykjavik, is located next to the beautiful Sog, Iceland’s largest freshwater river. There are 10 luxury apartments fully-equipped with a large kitchen, dining room, fireplace, spacious lounge area with a TV and an outdoor hot tub. The elegant Grimsborgir Restaurant offers traditional Icelandic meals as well as other gourmet food.

Hali Country Hotel – Jökulsárlón

The closest hotel to the magnificent glacial lagoon, there are 46 spacious rooms set out across several separate buildings, some with shared facilities but most with en suite. The adjacent Þórbergur Heritage Centre, which resembles a giant bookshelf from the outside, also houses the restaurant offering such delicacies as Arctic char and Icelandic lamb.

Northern Light Inn – Reykjanes

This pleasant inn is situated just a 15 minute drive from the international airport at Keflavik, and practically next door to the Blue Lagoon, a 25 minute walk. The 32 spacious, en suite rooms have naturally heated showers, and there is a very good restaurant with panoramic windows looking out over a lavascape, and part of the geothermal power plant that feeds the Blue Lagoon.

Hotel Rangá – near Hella

This superb 4-star, ranch style hotel is set just off the Ring Road between Hella and Hvolsvöllur. In addition to excellent facilities, a gourmet restaurant, outdoor hot tubs and an observatory, the Rangá has 52 extremely well-appointed rooms, including a Royal Suite and seven sensational World Suites. The rural location is ideal for exploring the Golden Circle and beyond.

Hotel Framtíð – East Fjords

Situated in the fishing village of Djúpivogur, this charming wooden hotel has an idyllic location and wonderful views. The 46 rooms, with and without private facilities, are spread between a wing of the main building, separate summerhouses and self-catering apartments. The small, old restaurant is full of charm and there is a new function room onsite too.

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Iceland

Fosshotel Vatnajökull

This is a popular and charismatic hotel with fantastic panoramic views of its namesake glacier, within easy reach of the regions many places of interest. Newly renovated and now with 66 light and airy rooms – standard, deluxe, garden, family and more, there is also a lounge area, bar and a great restaurant which again makes the most of the beautiful views.

Guesthouse Eyvindará – Egilsstaðir

Just 2km from Egilsstaðir, this lovely property with a very welcoming feel, has views over lush green countryside and the wooded area of Herad. It is actually a collection of fully furnished, nicely appointed rooms with their own verandahs, family rooms in cottages, and there is a large, 4-bed main guesthouse. This is a great place from which to explore the region.

Sæluhús – Akureyri

Set just half a mile from the centre of Akureyri, these self-catering villas and apartments of unquestionable quality have a private entrance, free Wi-Fi, a combined living and dining area, TV and a kitchenette or full kitchen. All villas and some apartments also include a private hot tub. These homes away from home are an ideal base from which to explore Iceland’s north.

Fosshotel East Fjords

This hotel situated in Fáskrúðsfjörður was built in 1903 and used as a hospital for French fishermen until 1939. Reopened and fully refurbished in 2014, the stylish property now includes a bar and a museum dedicated to the French fishermen. The 26 guestrooms offer en suite facilities and there is a French inspired restaurant, L’Abri, which serves an excellent menu.

Hotel Laxá – Lake Mývatn

This very crisp and clean contemporary hotel has a prime location south west of Mývatn, with views of the lake and river Laxá. It features 80 tastefully decorated rooms and good facilities including a lounge and bar with excellent views. There is an onsite restaurant which serves lunch and dinner buffets and an a la carte menu which uses local recipes and ingredients.

Hotel Glymur – Hvalfjörður

The spectacular surroundings on the edge of the ‘whale fjord’ are complimented by superb facilities. The standard rooms are large and modern, though the design over two floors can prove a challenge to some. Even if stairs are not an issue, an upgrade to one of the spectacular villas, each complete with their own private hot tub, still comes highly recommended.

Hotel Hallormsstaður – Egilsstaðir

Actually located around 25km south of Egilsstaðir, the hotel’s setting is a very rare scene in Iceland – in the middle of a forest! The wooded backdrop provides guests with outstanding hiking and cycling opportunities, and the hotel’s contemporary design, excellent restaurant and relaxing spa facilities create the perfect retreat after a day’s exertion.

Hotel Reykjahlíð – Lake Mývatn

Located on the shores of the lake, this family-run hotel built in 1947, has just 9 rooms, each with private facilities and exceptionally comfortable beds; the four rooms at the top are particularly spacious. The hotel has a small gourmet restaurant with sweeping views to the rear, overlooking the lake. This is a great base for exploring the fascinating Mývatn area.

Fosshotel – West Fjords

Since opening in June 2013, this hotel in Patreksfjörður, has brought a fresh perspective to the region. With a total of 40 rooms, all with private facilities and either mountain or sea views, a high quality restaurant serving locally sourced food, and a location perfect for exploring many sites of outstanding natural beauty, time here is time well spent.

Key to accommodation grades: St Standard Su Superior De Deluxe

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Tailor made ideasWhen you look at our website you’ll soon realise the possibilities are pretty much endless, and our tremendous breadth of experience is what you need to help steer you in the right direction. A member of our tailor made team is ready to discuss your requirements, give options and then design an appropriate itinerary. Here are a couple of trips we’ve helped plan and we look forward to any challenge you can throw at us!

©RTH Sigurdsson


Tailor M

ade Id

eas

Superjeep tour of Iceland

Two couples wanted to spend a week in Iceland with a personal driver/guide, staying at good quality accommodation. This was all very do-able but the key was to find out the following: what experiences they were looking for; what style of holiday they normally enjoyed; how active they wanted to be; which places were on their bucket list and of course, their budget. They came to our office and it was clear they had done their research but needed help to fine tune things - we worked through their plans, gave them options, made a few more suggestions and the result was a very happy group of friends.

Anniversary celebration

A lady wanted to surprise her husband with a trip for their 25th Wedding Anniversary. Iceland was a holiday destination they had always longed to visit but she wasn’t quite sure where to start. Members of our team used their experience to create a very special holiday - Mr. T only learnt he was going to Iceland as they checked in at the airport! Whatever your requirements, we will do our level best to make it happen for you. The quotations and advice we give are without obligation, and no charge is made. As with everything else we do, we believe that outstanding customer service has its own reward.

Further inspiration

At our office in Banstead, Surrey, we hold destination specific ‘travel evenings’ with invited speakers that can range from guides and tourist board representatives, to specialist travel writers and photographers – their expertise is unquestionable and their enthusiasm infectious! These informal evenings give people a chance to speak directly to the experts, over a glass or two of wine and nibbles. Visit our website events page to keep up-to-date with what is coming next! We also attend a series of travel shows during the year, such as Destinations in London and Manchester, and we’d love to meet you. Shows and events are posted on our website.

©RTH Sigurdsson

©RTH Sigurdsson

©Jennifer Carruth



Unique IcelandWith our vast experience as market leaders in tailor making holidays to Iceland, it is clear to see we go the extra mile, for example all of our self-drive clients are offered a vehicle upgrade subject to availability. And when you want that unique touch, something extra special for a birthday, anniversary, honeymoon or just a one-off treat, we can help and relish any challenges put our way.

Our Iceland experts will use their extensive experience to tailor make your holiday according to your requirements – if you want to find out about upgraded accommodation, personal driver/guides, special superjeep transfers etc, let us know. We believe all of our clients are VIPs, which is why we’ll give everyone the opportunity to enhance their time in

this spectacular country, any way we can - whether it’s taking in its beautiful and abstract landscape from the comfort of your own relaxing hot tub, flying over bubbling volcanoes and witnessing sights that are out of this world or exploring a spectacular ice cave deep within a centuries-old glacier – just some of the many possibilities.

©ArcticAdventures


Arrive in styleBegin your trip in the comfort of an airport

lounge followed by Icelandair’s Saga Class

with spacious leather seats and a choice of

Icelandic delicacies. On arrival, relax in the

luxury of a private superjeep transfer to your

Reykjavík hotel or opt for a longer tour and

explore Reykjanes Peninsula and the Blue

Lagoon on the way.

Explore by airGet a true sense of Iceland’s vast beauty

and versatile landscape by seeing it from

the air. We offer private or group excursions

by helicopter or light aircraft over areas

difficult or impossible to access by land.

The flights offer incredible photographic

opportunities of the dramatic highland

landscape, crevassed glaciers, meandering

rivers and imposing volcanoes, and with

a bit of luck you may even witness a real

volcanic eruption.

Drive a superjeep

These specially adapted 4WD vehicles are

a passion for many Icelanders - equipped

with chunky tyres (up to 44”) and a raised

suspension, they’re capable of taking you

over the toughest terrain. Learn how to

cross free-flowing rivers and negotiate

the steepest inclines and descents then

feel a great sense of achievement after a

challenging day as a ‘true’ Icelander – drive

under the watchful eye of an expert guide

or have a private driver.

Blue Lagoon – luxury experienceUpgrade your Blue Lagoon visit with priority

entry and a complimentary drink served

to you while you bathe in the lagoon.

You’ll have use of the lagoon’s towels and

bathrobes and an opportunity to unwind

in the exclusive lounge; consider adding a

soothing in-water massage with one of their

beauty therapists. A visit to the Blue Lagoon

is the perfect way to start or end your time

in Iceland as it is conveniently located close

to the international airport at Keflavík.

Silfra – swim between the tectonic platesListed as one of the world’s top ten dive

sites and with up to 100 metres of crystal

clear water, Silfra is perfect for diving and

snorkeling. The deep fissure gives you a

feeling weightlessness as you float between

the European and American tectonic plates!

There are no fish in this part of the lake,

making the experience even more surreal

and once through the fissure you arrive in

a shallow lagoon bursting with colour and

shards of light from above.

Special interests and private guidesWhatever your special interest; ornithology,

geology, photography or fishing to name a

few, we can arrange a private specialist guide

for a few hours to several days, so that you

can make the best of your time in Iceland.

Float in a secret lagoonWith much of the hot geothermal water

so close to the Earth’s surface, many of

Iceland’s rivers are perfect for outdoor

bathing. This unique excursion departs

from Reykjavík in the evening and after

a 90-minute transfer you arrive at the

Secret Lagoon. Get kitted out with your

floatation aids and relax to the sound of

underwater music. Marvel at the night sky

and depending on the time of year, enjoy

the midnight sun (June-July), or even the

northern lights (late August to mid- April).

Special accommodationHotel Rangá offers World Pavilion Suites

– there are seven to choose from, each

brilliantly themed with superb amenities. At

Hotel Glymur, choose one of the luxury villas

with a hot tub overlooking the beautiful

‘whale fjord’. At Icelandair Hotel Vík

upgrade to one of their marvellous suites,

stay at the Fosshotel Vatnajökull, surrounded

by fabulous views or try a wonderful lake

view room at Hotel Hallormsstaður – check

for upgrades with our travel specialists.

Un

ique Icelan

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Upgrade your Experience

©Daytours ©Hotel Ranga

Our Iceland experts are on hand to advise on the unique experiences that can be added to your holiday to suit your particular interests.



Iceland for familiesIceland is the perfect year round destination for a family holiday and the ideal place to create long-lasting happy memories. The vast and intriguing landscape with its bubbling mud pools, magical waterfalls, glacial rivers and curious lava fields is like a magical fantasy novel - a natural playground for children and adults alike. And tales of trolls, hidden people and elves living in rocks certainly gets the imagination going!

44 All our holidays are covered by our 100% Guarantee, see page 6 ©RTH Sigurdsson


Spring Go on a superjeep safari

across Iceland’s volcanic

landscape getting closer to

areas of natural beauty than

you could possibly imagine.

Our superjeep safaris are a

fun and safe way for families

to get to see Iceland’s

versatile landscape.

Learn how to ‘tölt’ on a

horse trek through stunning

countryside - the Icelandic

horse has two additional

gaits than the usual walk,

trot and canter. And it’s

the smoothest ride you’ll

experience on horseback.

Sample local cuisine

including delicious bread

baked underground in

Laugarvatn, close to beautiful

Þingvellir National Park.

Summer Test your strength and

stamina kayaking in southern

Iceland off the coast in

Stokkseyri.

Go exploring at midnight –

since the sun is still up. The

grown-ups will forget all

about bed time!

Have a whale of time in

Reykjavík and Húsavík

spotting the kings of the

sea. Whale watching is

particularly popular between

May and September but you

can go whale watching year

round, depending on where

you’re located.

Visit the Troll Garden in

Fossatún and see how many

myths and sagas have shaped

Icelandic culture.

If you’re aged 10+ then you

could enjoy a wet and wild

day out white water rafting!

A great way to splash mum

and dad!

Autumn Spot as many constellations

as you can star gazing in

west Iceland at Hotel Rangá’s

wonderful and unique space

observatory. You might even

be lucky enough to witness

the magical northern lights.

Visit the spooky ghost centre

in Stokkseyri and learn all

about Iceland’s ghouls, trolls

and elves. Ideal for a scary

Halloween!

Winter Get into the festive sprit

at the Christmas House

in Iceland’s second city,

Akureyri, north Iceland. It

looks like a Gingerbread

house and is jam-packed with

decorations and sweet treats!

Enjoy the festive season in

Reykjavík and the riot of

colour when the New Year

fireworks explode over the

capital.

Year round One of the year round

activities not to be missed

is a dip in the famous Blue

Lagoon - enjoyable for the

whole family. Soak in the

soothing waters, try a silica

mud mask and just enjoy

this weird and wonderful

experience. There are

numerous hot pools and

heated rivers around the

country, some in really out of

the way places so keep your

cossie and towel handy!

Practically year round –

snowmobiling! Apart from

the height of winter, it

is usually possibly to go

snowmobiling on an icecap

– a thrilling adventure. As

passengers, children can enjoy

the speed and excitement of

these fantastic machines.

Contact our Iceland travel

specialists for the low down

on the best places to go, and

things to see and do for you

and your family – and let

Iceland be your playground!

We offer a wide range of comfortable and family-friendly accommodation including hotels, B&B’s and self-catering options as well as some delightful summerhouses, all of which are located close to areas of interest for family activities. Whether you’re looking for bike or boat hire, swimming pools and waterslides, legend and history, wildlife and nature or the best ice cream in Iceland, our travel specialists can advise you on where’s best for you and your family to stay, whether you want to relax and have some quality time together, or be more active and adventurous.

Every season has new and exciting options:

Accommodation for families

Activities for families

Iceland

for Fam

ilies

©Hotel Ork ©ArcticAdventures



Self-drive Iceland


Exploring by car continues to be the most popular way of discovering the real Iceland. Our range of flexible self-drive itineraries, researched extensively by our Iceland experts, means you can make the most of navigating Iceland’s uncluttered roads and take in its array of magnificent scenery at your own pace.

Laurence and Linda Perry

The organisation was flawless and the itinerary you put together delivered exactly what we had hoped for – we’ve returned with hundreds of photographs and abiding memories. Having iDiscover greatly enhanced the enjoyment of our trip. Apart from having routes and suggestions for places of interest, the 3G gave us access to the internet and we used the excellent Iceland Met Office website to monitor the weather every day, which helped when planning our excursions. It was a great trip and thank you for making it happen so well for us.

©ManuelVelasco


Self-D

rive Iceland

This digital personal travel guide is for

anyone who books a self-drive holiday

in Iceland and, at no extra cost to you, is

presented to you on an iPad Air, for use

during your holiday. This is more than just

a replacement for conventional maps and

reams of paperwork, iDiscover follows your

daily personal itinerary, with guidance,

maps, places to visit, road conditions, aurora

forecasts and so much more. Indeed we feel

that iDiscover is the future of self-drive travel.

iDiscover is no mere ‘App’ and has been

developed wholly with the travellers interests

and journey in mind. Its simplicity makes

it easy to use, even for the less technically

savvy. No longer will you be searching

through piles of paperwork to find the

address of your accommodation, views

will no longer be blocked by large paper

maps that get ruined in the wind. We’ve

always encouraged travellers to Iceland to

get off the beaten track and now iDiscover

makes that even easier with it’s simple to

follow places to visit, which are highlighted

throughout your route.

We have a wide range of self-drive itineraries

to choose from, from 3-night short breaks

to 14-night explorations, all of which have

been tried and tested by our Iceland experts,

so we’re confident to give them the full

Discover the World assurance. Below is a

guide to iDiscover with examples of how it

will enhance your self-drive holiday:

Pick up your dedicated holiday iPad Air,

complete with indestructible, waterproof

case, when you collect your rental car.

All you need to do is enter your booking

reference number and your personal

itinerary will appear, along with a map

of your route, places to visit, and how to

get to your hotel.

You have unlimited Internet access

through your iPad, meaning you can get

online no matter where you are. This

gives travellers peace of mind knowing

that even in the most remote places you’ll

still have contact with family and friends

at home.

For some, an old-fashioned fold-up

map can’t be beaten on a self-drive

adventure. But we beg to differ. iDiscover

offers both online and offline maps,

which include distances, journey times

and step-by-step instructions as well

as a useful translation guide. The maps

also show you where the nearest petrol

stations are – an invaluable source of

information when driving long distances.

If you have a specific destination to

reach, iDiscover can map it out for you,

from your present location.

Throughout your holiday iDiscover offers

day-by-day suggestions - where to

visit, hiking and walking trails to take,

excursions to go on, wildlife to spot,

and more. These have been written and

researched by our Iceland experts and

also include tips from local Icelanders.

Iceland is known as a land where all four

seasons can be experienced in a day so

we understand the importance of road

and weather updates. We’ve included

direct links to up-to-the-minute forecasts

and road reports so you can plan ahead

and ensure that you take the safest and

best routes. We’ve even included links

to aurora forecasts and any new volcanic

activity, so you can be ready to make

the most of Iceland’s unique natural

phenomena.

iDiscover offers children aged 5-12

challenges and games whilst on holiday

in Iceland – see page 48.

Just like Iceland’s landscape, iDiscover

is constantly changing. We continue to

ensure that iDiscover is regularly updated

with the latest in travel development,

maps and places to visit.

When the time comes to say farewell,

hand back the iPad, its case and charger

to the car rental company. If no one is

available, just lock the items in the boot

of the car.

Throughout our 30 plus years of creating market leading Iceland holidays, we continue to develop and invest in new and innovative ways of enhancing your time spent in Iceland. After a great deal of research and development we’ve launched a unique and pioneering concept, called iDiscover.

A revolutionary iPad travel guide

©RTH Sigurdsson ©RTH Sigurdsson

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/idiscover?utm_source=IcelandBro2015

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/idiscover?utm_source=IcelandBro2015

48 All our holidays are covered by our 100% Guarantee, see page 648 All our holidays are covered by our 100% Guarantee, see page 6 ©RTH Sigurdsson


Mission ExploreTo assist the whole family in enjoying Iceland to the maximum we’ve teamed up with a

children’s geographical organisation Mission: Explore, which specialises in encouraging

children to find the adventure in the great outdoors around them.

Together with Mission: Explore we have created a one off special Iceland online

booklet, accessible via iDiscover that highlights many of the geographical wonders

of the island and creates an immersive experience that is fun and enjoyable. Ideal for

children aged 5-12, the missions have been designed to test their creativity, curiosity

and exploration skills. In addition to Mission:Explore, families will also be given a

children’s map of Iceland. Let the exploration begin…

Fair usage policyThe iDiscover iPads have cellular usage enabling you to check your emails and keep

in touch with family and friends on social media during your holiday. However, we

do operate a fair usage policy to prevent downloading movies and other heavy duty

applications. And for those preferring to stick to printed matter, just let us know prior to

your departure and we’ll send you your itinerary and other relevant information by post.

Self-D

rive Iceland

Iceland is ‘nature’s playground’ - a living geographical wonder with hot springs and mud pools, geysers and volcanoes and more – it often feels like you’ve stepped into a magical fantasy novel.

©RTH Sigurdsson

©RTH Sigurdsson


Car hire in IcelandFor many years now, we have used the local Europcar franchise – Bilaleiga Akureyrar. They are by far the largest car rental

company in Iceland, and our customers enjoy many exclusive benefits when using them, including priority on the newest and

best-appointed vehicles available on the day. Vehicles can be collected on arrival at Keflavík Airport, in Reykjavík, Akureyri or a

range of locations around the island. Prices on the following pages are for guidance only, based on two people sharing a vehicle

with accommodation in twin bedded rooms, with facilities throughout and including breakfast. Detailed pricing is shown on our

website together with information on insurance, plus special terms and conditions relevant to driving in Iceland.

Whenever possible, Discover the World clients receive a complimentary upgrade on arrival.

Car Hire

©RTH Sigurdsson

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/choice-of-vehicles-iceland?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Veh

icle Ch

oices

VW Golf (or similar)GROUP B 5 seats / 5 doors ABS DRIVER’S AIRBAG not permitted for Highland driving Electric windows / Power steering / Radio / CD / Air conditioning / Manual or automatic / 29 mpg / Fuel tank capacity 12 gallons

VW Tigan 4WD (or similar)GROUP G 5 seats / 5 doors ABS DRIVER’S AIRBAG Highland driving Electric windows / Power Steering / Radio / CD / Air conditioning / Manual or Automatic transmission / petrol or diesel 53 mpg / Fuel tank capacity 14 gallons

Toyota Landcruiser 4WD (or similar)GROUP I 5 seats / 5 doors ABS DRIVER’S AIRBAG Highland driving Electric windows / Power steering / Radio / CD / Air conditioning / Automatic ONLY / Diesel 27 mpg / Fuel tank capacity 21 gallons

Audi A4 (or similar)GROUP L 5 seats / 4 doors ABS DRIVER’S AIRBAG not permitted for Highland driving Electric windows / Power steering / Radio / CD / Air conditioning / Automatic ONLY / Diesel 40 mpg / Fuel tank capacity 15 gallons

Skoda Octavia (or similar)GROUP D 5 seats / 5 doors ABS DRIVER’S AIRBAG not permitted for Highland driving Electric windows / Power steering / Radio / CD / Air conditioning / Manual or automatic / 30 mpg / Fuel tank capacity 14 gallons / 4WD - low clearance only

Kia Sorrento 4WD (or similar)GROUP H 5 seats / 5 doors ABS DRIVER’S AIRBAG Highland driving Electric windows / Power steering / Radio / CD / Air conditioning / Manual or automatic transmission / Petrol or diesel 43 mpg / Fuel tank capacity 20 gallons

Suzuki Grand Vitara 4WD (or similar)GROUP F 5 seats / 5 doors ABS DRIVER’S AIRBAG Highland driving Electric windows / Power steering / Radio / CD / Air conditioning / Manual or automatic transmission / Petrol or diesel 30 mpg / Fuel tank capacity 12 gallons

VW Caravelle 4WD (or similar)GROUP J 9 seats / 5 doors ABS DRIVER’S AIRBAG Highland driving Electric windows / Power steering /Radio / CD / Manual ONLY / Diesel 25 mpg / Fuel tank capacity 12 gallons

Please note All Highland driving/mountain tracks require a 4WD vehicle, which have

high clearance and are suitable for summer driving on the F roads featured in our

4WD itineraries. Other vehicles from Europcar are available - please contact us.

Key

ABS Anti-lock Breaking System

Adult Small adult Child

Audi Q7 (or similar)GROUP R 5 seats / 5 doors ABS DRIVER’S AIRBAG Highland driving Electric windows / Power steering / Radio / CD / Air conditioning / Automatic ONLY / Diesel 28 mpg / Fuel tank capacity 19 gallons

Also considerA Land Rover superjeep from ISAK. This special addition to our list of vehicles is generally used on our 4WD itineraries. Visit our website for further details.

Images ©Europcar

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/choice-of-vehicles-iceland?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Volcanic Explorer Self-drive holiday


= Overnight stay

Vík

Keflavík Flúðir

Westman Islands

©Mlenny

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/volcanic-explorer?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Volcan

ic Exp

lorer

SnapshotA short break designed to show a tremendous variety of the rural splendour of Iceland.

Duration 5 days (4 nights)

Prices from £489pp (two sharing inc vehicle, excl flights)

Accommodation/Meals Standard hotels, breakfast included

Departures daily all year

Reykjanes is the rugged peninsula in Iceland’s south west where you’ll find a moody lavascape and surf pounded, black sand beaches, hot springs, bubbling mud pools, a ‘mysterious’ lake and tectonic rifts. From here, trace the Ring Road east and the vibrant greens of Iceland’s south make an appearance, along with some fantastic waterfalls and magnificent glaciers. Thrilling options to get onto the icecap include riding a snowmobile, a superjeep trip, or even a glacier walk. And on an

optional day trip by ferry to the volcanic Westman Islands, walk through houses excavated from the ash of the 1973 eruption, then head along the coast to see puffin colonies (summer only). The trio of natural wonders on the Golden Circle route end this fascinating holiday.

This exciting short break provides a glimpse of the fiery side of Iceland, with a liberal splattering of impressive waterfalls and magnificent glaciers. Focusing on the south-west corner of the island, one action packed day follows another.

Highlights Visit a town part buried by

lava and ash

Marvel at spectacular waterfalls

Follow the south coast and walk along deserted black sand beaches

Enjoy the famous Golden Circle

Key locations include: Blue Lagoon, Dyrhólaey, Westman Islands, Þingvellir, Gullfoss and Geysir

Also consider...Reykjavík Explorer - full details on our website

©frenk58

©PatrickMi©ErikMandre

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/volcanic-explorer?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Southern HighlightsSelf-drive holiday

G&J Pritchett

Never realised there were so many places to see in such a concentrated area – Iceland is beautiful! With iDiscover, it was easy to find everything and get a heads up on our bad weather day – we got food and wine and relaxed at our summerhouse - lovely.


Þingvellir

KeflavíkReykjavík

Blue Lagoon

Skógar

Minniborgir/Grimsborgir

Gullfoss

Vík = Overnight stay

Hveragerði

Geysir

©Fyle

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/southern-highlights?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Also consider...This itinerary is also offered with the option to stay at the luxury Grimsborgir apartments – see our website for details.

Flexibility is the key on our popular itinerary offered at the Minniborgir summerhouses as well as a number of other properties in the area, which allows you to spend your time as actively or leisurely as you please. With days out to see such impressive natural wonders as Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss, the hot springs at Geysir and some dramatic coastline, you’ll have a splendid introduction to this beautiful part of Iceland. The Blue Lagoon is an emphatic tick on everyone’s wish list and is conveniently located just 20 minutes from Keflavík airport. Gently

steaming amidst a surreal lavascape, there is nothing quite like a soothing dip in its therapeutic waters. Explore ‘small and friendly’ Reykjavík, or perhaps take an excursion to the Westman Islands, famous for their puffin population, volcanoes and lava fields. There are a number of optional excursions available to help plan your days.

This itinerary with a single base, the Minniborgir summerhouses in the heart of the countryside, allows you to explore a new area of interest each day. And with their convenient location in the rural Hveragerði/Selfoss area, the stunning landscape across Iceland’s beautiful south is on your doorstep.

Highlights Marvel at the wonders of the

Golden Circle route

Explore bird cliffs and lava fields on the Westman Islands

Indulge in the spa after soaking in the Blue Lagoon

Enjoy several of Iceland’s iconic waterfalls

Key locations include: Reykjavík, Þingvellir, Gullfoss, Geysir, Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss, Westman Islands

Sou

thern

High

lights

SnapshotA well-paced itinerary taking in the best of the south on day trips from a single base.



Accommodation/Meals Summerhouses, self-catering or breakfast basis only


©RTH Sigurdsson

©Blue Lagoon©stjepann

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/southern-highlights?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Essential Iceland


Self-drive holiday

Matthew Brooks

Highlights of the holiday were many but Jökulsárlón, the Golden Circle, Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss and the Blue Lagoon were all very impressive. We would definitely recommend Iceland to our family and friends and would like to go back to see the rest of the country

Þingvellir

KeflavíkReykjavík

Blue Lagoon

Skógar

Selfoss

Gullfoss

Vík = Overnight stay

SkaftafellJökulsárlon

Smyrlabjörg

KirkjubæjarklausturHveragerði

Geysir

©kavram

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/essential-iceland?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Essen

tial Iceland

SnapshotAn excellent itinerary for those looking for a relatively leisurely pace, exploring the classic sights.



Accommodation/Meals Standard hotels, breakfast included


Many first-time visitors to Iceland come to see the waterfalls and on this classic itinerary, you’ll see three of the best: Gullfoss, Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss – each with their own unique characteristics, all beautiful. And if you choose to hike in Skaftafell National Park, which is highly recommended, you might even see a forth, Svartifoss.

Take a walk on a black sand beach, to see the imposing basalt cliffs at Reynisfjara, or

look out at the sea stacks from the little town of Vík. The erupting geyser, Strokkur provides a chance to see one of Iceland’s geothermal wonders up close, and gives visitors a hard time trying to capture it on camera!

This itinerary highlights the essence of Iceland perfectly and will make you eager to return.

A week meandering along Iceland’s stunning south coast and back again, through a region often said to be Iceland’s most beautiful. With its spectacular waterfalls, giant glaciers, quirky black sands and the dazzling iceberg lagoon of Jökulsárlon - you’ll soon see why. And you’ll also have time to fit in the Golden Circle route.

Highlights Spend delightful days on roads

often devoid of traffic

Overnight in the shadows of the mighty Vatnajökull icecap

Explore the beautiful Skaftafell National Park on foot

Key locations include: Reykjavík, Þingvellir, Gullfoss, Geysir, Dyrhólaey, Skatftafell & Jökulsárlon

©TomasSereda

©KushnirovAvraham

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/essential-iceland?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Journey to the Centre of the Earth


Self-drive holiday

Karen Mahakian

I just wanted you to know what a wonderful time we had in Iceland. Thank you for all your help with travel plans and recommendations, the excursions were great as was the accommodation

StykkishólmurGrundarfjörður

ArnarstapiBorgarnes

Þingvellir

KeflavíkReykjavík

Blue LagoonHveragerði

HellaSkógar

Reykholt

Gullfoss

FlúðirSkaftafell Jökulsárlon

Kirkjubæjarklaustur

= Overnight stay

©RTH Sigurdsson

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/journey-to-the-centre-of-the-earth?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Journ

ey to the C

entre of th

e Earth

SnapshotFrom tiny fishing villages to spectacular waterfalls and glaciers, this holiday provides a wide and diverse range of experiences.



Accommodation Standard hotels, breakfast included


Whatever time of year you decide to take this holiday, you can be assured of a great introduction to the diversity of Iceland’s landscape and its prolific natural wonders.

According to Jules Verne, the entrance to the centre of the Earth is to be found in the crater of the dormant volcano, Snæfellsjökull at the tip of the rugged western peninsula. Contrast that with the iconic scenery of the south, with its former sea cliffs now receded to reveal outwash

plains and some truly stunning waterfalls. The farthest east you’ll travel is Jökulsárlon, the breathtaking glacial lagoon dotted with icebergs of every shape and size, guaranteed to be a sight you’ll never forget.

Perhaps take an optional ‘duck’ tour around the lagoon, the amphibious vehicles getting close for some great photo opportunities. And be sure to step onto the beach opposite to see icebergs scattered across the black sands.

Snæfellsjökull, a glacier-topped volcano, is a haunting vision, often observed from Reykjavík ‘floating’ at the end of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. This will be just one of the amazing sights on this holiday, which also takes the visitor along the beautiful south coast, as far as the iceberg filled lagoon, Jökulsárlon.

Highlights Walk along the dramatic coast of

the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Enjoy stunning Skaftafell

Step back in time and visit a Víking aged turf farm

Sail amongst icebergs or simply watch them float out to sea

Key locations include: Reykjavík, Snæfellsnes, Þingvellir, Gullfoss, Geysir, Dyrhólaey, Skaftafell & Jökulsárlon

©demerzel21

©RTH Sigurdsson©KushnirovAvraham

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/journey-to-the-centre-of-the-earth?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Iceland Connoisseur


Self-drive holiday

Mike Richards

Our trip to Iceland was amazing - perhaps the best one I have ever had to the country. Absolutely everything was perfectly arranged and the quality of the Hotels was stunning. In fact the only problem was that the trip just wasn’t long enough!

Stykkishólmur

Búðir

Þingvellir

KeflavíkReykjavík

Northern Light Inn

Skógar

Gullfoss

Glymur

= Overnight stay

RangáSelfoss

Geysir

©RTH Sigurdsson

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/iceland-connoisseur?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Iceland

Con

noisseu

r

SnapshotBased in the south and west of Iceland in some of the best-appointed countryside Hotels, this itinerary is designed to allow time to enjoy the spectacular scenery at a leisurely pace.



Accommodation/Meals Superior hotels, breakfast included


On this holiday, appreciate Iceland’s acclaimed natural wonders of the south and west, as well as the hospitality of some characterful and very welcoming Hoteliers. Their properties are particularly comfortable, and with their own restaurants, you’ll have the opportunity to sample delicious, locally inspired dishes from home cooked fare to gourmet cuisine.

Walk behind the spectacular waterfall, Seljalandsfoss, take an optional snowmobile ride on Mýrdalsjökull icecap and visit Snorri’s pool, a preserved hot

tub dating from the Middle Ages – a small taste of what is instore. With all the wonderful places to visit and things to do, you’ll certainly work up an appetite on a daily basis!

At the end of the holiday, spend a night in Reykjavík with its wealth of dining options, a favourite of ours being delightful Lækjarbrekka - a fitting end to a lovely holiday.

This highly original itinerary focuses on four charming and inviting countryside hotels, ideally located in the south and west, with easy access to outstanding scenery and places of interest. If you have a penchant for fine dining and even finer views, this is the trip for you.

Highlights Wander through lava fields at Búðir

Look out for seals

Maybe take a whale watching trip from Ólafsvík (summer only)

Visit mighty Glymur, Iceland’s second highest waterfall (summer only)

Explore Þingvellir National Park

All properties have excellent restaurants

Key locations include: Blue Lagoon, Dyrhólaey, Þingvellir, Gullfoss, and Geysir, Snæfellsnes & Reykholt

©Hotel Glymur

©Hotel Ranga ©Hotel Budir

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/iceland-connoisseur?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


James Woodend – National Parks & Natural Wonders

Discover the World should get 10 out of 10 for its organisation and comprehensive itinerary. The hotels chosen were all of very good quality, located at convenient spots and there was always the reassurance of somebody at the end of a telephone if needed. A great service and I will whole heartedly recommend your company to others.

National Parks and Natural Wonders


Self-drive holiday

Húsavík

KeflavíkReykjavík

Flúðir

Skógar


Höfn

Skaftafell

Seyðisfjörður

MývatnDettifoss

Hallormsstaður

DjúpivogurSmyrlabjörg

Raufarhöfn

GullfossGeysir

Akureyri

©RTH Sigurdsson

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/national-parks-and-natural-wonders?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Nation

al Parks an

d N

atural W

ond

ers

SnapshotA full but leisurely paced itinerary with scope for plenty of time to explore in Iceland’s great outdoors.


Prices from £1,169pp (two sharing inc vehicle, excl flights)


Departures daily May to September

Begin this holiday in the capital and comfortably complete the drive to Akureyri in around 9 days, flying back to Reykjavík on a 45 minute flight across Iceland’s remote and beautiful highlands.At an average of less than 100 miles, or 3 hours per day at the wheel, this leaves plenty of time for exploring on foot, sightseeing or enjoying a special excursion or two.

Linger on the shores of Lake Mývatn and enjoy its birdlife, visit Dimmuborgir for a walk amongst strange lava formations, or visit Námaskarð with

its red earth, bubbling grey mudpools and sulphurous steam vents. In Jökulsá Canyon National Park, be impressed by the power of Dettifoss, enjoy the striking scenery of the East Fjords and a visit to Vatnajökull, the largest national park in Europe – the list goes on!

Discover magnificent scenery in national parks spread across the country. Moon-like volcanoes and brooding grey deserts contrast with shimmering icecaps, vibrant green valleys, peaceful fjords, sleepy fishing villages and naturally, countless waterfalls in all shapes and sizes.

Highlights Explore Lake Mývatn and its

fascinating surrounds

Journey to the remote village of RaufarHöfn

Soak up spectacular views in the Eastern Fjords

Drive along the southern coast and experience a kaleidoscope of colours

Key locations include: Akureyri, Raufarhöfn, Mývatn, Eastern Fjords, Jökulsárlon, Skaftafell, Gullfoss, Geysir, Þingvellir, Reykjavík

Also consider...We can also offer a tailor made hiking version of this trip – full details on request.

©RTH Sigurdsson


http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/national-parks-and-natural-wonders?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Around Iceland


Self-drive holiday

Steve & Nicky Hilliar

Iceland exceeded our expectations with its dramatic volcanic landscapes, waterfalls and coastline. Every day was an adventure with different aspects of the country unfolding.

= Overnight stayDyrholaey

KeflavíkReykjavík

MývatnDettifoss

Húsavík

AkureyriGlaumbær

GrundarfjörðurSeyðisfjörður

BreiddalsVík

Jökulsárlon

Höfn

Djúpivogur

Hveragerði

Gullfoss

Skaftafell

Egilsstaðir

©RTH Sigurdsson

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/around-iceland?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Arou

nd

Iceland

SnapshotA full itinerary with plenty of optional activities and excursions.




Departures May – September

Iceland’s ‘Route 1’ circumnavigates most of the island and affords access to many of its most celebrated natural wonders, including those on the Golden Circle route.

Visit places of cultural and historical interest, survey stunning coastlines, see moss-clad lava fields, negotiate winding roads through majestic fjords and be rewarded with picturesque harbour side towns, and wonder at the geothermal activity around Mývatn - just some of

the experiences to be had on this brilliant itinerary. Oh and did we mention a visit to Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall!

In addition, spend a few days on the stunning Snæfellsnes Peninsula in the west, with plenty of time to explore and hike through scenery displaying yet another side of Iceland.

Travel the full circle around Iceland and prepare for an overdose of sensational scenery. As each day unfolds, you’ll be amazed at the variety of experiences this beautiful island can offer. And, by exploring at a leisurely pace, you’ll have time to enjoy it all.

Highlights Marvel at Strokkur erupting

every 10 minutes

Walk behind a waterfall or on top of a glacier

Scan the waters of Iceland’s longest fjord for humpback whales

Enjoy freshly cooked fish in a countryside restaurant

Key locations include: Snæfellsnes, Akureyri, Lake Mývatn, Eastern Fjords, Jökulsárlon, Skaftafell, Þingvellir, Gullfoss, Geysir

©North Sailing

©RTH Sigurdsson

©AlexeyStiop

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Iceland Backroads


Self-drive holiday

= Overnight stay

Rangá

Westman Islands


Hrauneyjar

Hveragerði

Gauksmyri

Suðureyri Heydalur

Patreksfjörður

FlateyGrundafjordur

KeflavíkReykjavík

©RTH Sigurdsson

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/iceland-backroads?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Iceland

Backroad

s

SnapshotThis 4WD itinerary will appeal to confident drivers, ready to take up the challenge of highland touring on Iceland’s mountain tracks.




Departures daily July & August

On this itinerary, where the driving is an integral part of the enjoyment, experience a whole raft of volcanic and geothermal features and examples of Mother Nature at her best. Explore national parks and see tectonic rifts, lavascapes and hot springs, sweeping glaciers, mossy canyons, gorges and a stunning glacial lagoon; trace a craggy coastline and marvel at the weird and wonderful lava formations and distinctive sea-stacks; stay on a tiny island in the middle of a beautiful bay; walk on deserted sandy beaches and watch abundant birdlife from cliff-top paths; see

a multitude of very different and incredibly picturesque waterfalls and take a day trip to the Westman Islands.

Drive roller-coaster mountain routes, winding roads, negotiate dirt tracks and really get to know Iceland – what are you waiting for!

Explore the wilder side of Iceland and witness rugged volcanic landscapes, remote and scenic fjords, glaciers and icebergs as well as many of the island’s most beautiful waterfalls, on arguably our most exciting itinerary. And with our insider tips, you’ll be exploring places that few travellers get to see.

Highlights Follow the Golden Circle route

Spend a night on Flatey Island

Bathe in natural geothermal pools

Take highland tracks and mountain routes

Spend time at Jökulsárlon

Hop across to the Westman Islands

Adventurous optional activities

Key locations include: Reykjavík, Þingvellir, Snæfellsnes, Flatey, West Fjords, Kjölur track, Fjallabak, Westman Islands

Also consider...Iceland Backroads Mini-Tour - full details on our website.

©RTH Sigurdsson

©RTH Sigurdsson ©Arctic Running ©RTH Sigurdsson ©RTH Sigurdsson

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/iceland-backroads?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Fly, Drive & Hike


Self-drive holiday

= Overnight stayDyrholaey

KeflavíkReykjavík

MývatnDettifoss

Húsavík

Akureyri

GrundarfjörðurSeyðisfjörður

Jökulsárlon

Höfn

Hveragerði

Gullfoss

Skaftafell

Egilsstaðir

Borgardfjordur Eystri

Þingvellir

Geysir

Gwendolyn Campbell

They say that Dettifoss is the most powerful waterfall in Europe,” I read to my husband “I wonder how they know that?” The waterfall came into view. My eyes popped. My jaw dropped. My brain scrambled to process the data that it was receiving. “Okay, I’m going to give them this one…

©Gianfranco Bella

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/fly-drive-and-hike?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Fly, D

rive & H

ike

SnapshotA full-on, full circle itinerary for those who want to get out and discover Iceland’s great outdoors.



Accommodation/meals Tourist class hotels, breakfast included

Departures May to September

This itinerary gets straight to the point and within a couple of days you’ll become acquainted with Iceland’s beautiful south and its wealth of natural wonders: the mid-Atlantic ridge across Þingvellir; the geysir geothermal area, countless waterfalls, striking glaciers, black sand beaches and moss-covered lava fields.

Drive around the island and walk or hike through hidden gorges and glacier-topped peaks, behind waterfalls, over rhyolite mountains, past volcanic plugs and fast-flowing rivers, along the shores of an

iceberg filled lagoon, amongst bubbling mud pools and steaming fumaroles, and trace a trail along a rugged coastline – just some of the experiences to be had on this active holiday.

See pretty much every facet of Iceland on an itinerary that covers a whole lot of ground, whether by car or by foot. With a route that weaves through places perfect for hiking, enjoy a variety of trails that take in all kinds of terrain and some unbelievable scenery; stay a minimum of 2 nights in each location to allow for greater exploration.

Highlights Marvel at the wonders of the

Golden Circle route

Explore Lake Mývatn and its curious volcanic surrounds

Discover the delights of the East Fjords and Snæfellsnes

Test your boots and legs over some impressive trails

Key locations include: Golden Circle, Skaftafell, Jökulsárlon, Borgarfjörður Eystri, Mývatn, Snæfellsnes

Book and receive a FREE copy of SUMMIT-100 Mountain Hikes by Ari Trausti Gudmundsson (rrp £20). This detailed, illustrated collection of trails is an essential companion.

©JulesKitano ©RTH Sigurdsson ©Fyle

©tibu

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/fly-drive-and-hike?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Iceland Odyssey


Self-drive holiday

Karen Cox

We had a superb trip and found the scenery in Iceland truly inspiring. The hotels we stayed in, on your recommendation, were faultless and we found the people so welcoming and helpful

= Overnight staySkógar

Blue LagoonKeflavík

Reykjavík

GrundafjordurFlatey

Ísafjörður

Akureyri

EgilsstaðirVarmahlíð

DrangsnesMývatn

Seyðisfjörður

Breiddalsvík

Djúpivogur

Country Hotel Hali

Þingvellir

Hveragerði

Patreksfjörður

©Yyevgen Timashov

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/iceland-odyssey?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Iceland

Od

yssey

SnapshotOur most comprehensive itinerary created for the visitor wanting to see as much as possible




Departures mid May to mid September

This is a long holiday with each day packed full of experiences that will challenge your senses and provide a truly wondrous experience. It may cover a great deal of ground, and all terrains, but the itinerary is still paced perfectly for you to enjoy and appreciate it all.

Gaze at the massive outwash plains along the south coast, the process of countless volcanic eruptions; observe how Iceland is being torn

apart (at 2.5cm a year!) as you stand between tectonic plates; cross beautiful Breiðafjörður Bay amongst countless islets, perhaps catching a glimpse of a whale, stroll around Námaskarð, near Mývatn, where bubbling mudpools and hissing steam vents fascinate – and the list goes on!

And a rejuvenating dip in the Nature Baths, the north’s answer to the Blue Lagoon, is always recommended.

This ever popular holiday, lets the visitor appreciate a huge slice of Iceland’s stunning scenery, its culture and the warm hospitality of its people. From Mýrdalsjökull icecap in the south to the shores of the enchanting fjords of the north-west peninsula – this holiday provides a true insight into the phenomenon that is Iceland.

Highlights Stand between two tectonic plates

Hike through stunning Skaftafell National Park

See bubbling mud pools near Lake Mývatn

Soak in the beauty of the West Fjords

Key locations include: Skaftafell, East Fjords, Lake Mývatn, West Fjords, Látrabjarg, Snæfellsnes

©RTH Sigurdsson

©RTH Sigurdsson©trofotodesign ©RTH Sigurdsson

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/iceland-odyssey?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Small Group Guided Tours


Small groups, imaginative itineraries and of course, a liberal smattering of ‘off the beaten track’ places largely overlooked by other tour groups.

For over thirty years, we have operated many styles of guided

tours for our clients. However, recently we have noticed a

demand for a more intimate and authentic experience. There

is a preference for travelling to Iceland in smaller groups, to

experience the true nature of this diverse country, rather than

going from one tourist icon to another. For this reason, we

present a collection of itineraries including a new, rather different

midnight sun focused trip, new North and South Countryside

tours and a luxury touring option with a fabulous vehicle.

We truly believe this collection of tours reflect our desire to

bring you the very best this remarkable destination has to offer.

They stand out from the rest for sure, with prices reflecting their

quality, yet representing excellent value for money.

And if you would like to book one of our itineraries exclusively

for your own group of family and friends, we would be happy

to make the appropriate arrangements and tailor the itinerary to

your exact requirements.

©RTH Sigurdsson

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/escorted?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Sm

all Grou

p G

uid

ed T

ours of Icelan

d

Group Sizes

Meals

Level of activity

Drivers and guides Accommodation

Places visited

Transport

Our relaxed and informal tours generally have between 10 and 20 participants, depending on the tour and the vehicle used. There are gentle tours, participatory tours and some with a definite ‘touring in style’ feel.

Breakfast and three course dinners included (some also have picnic lunches).

Introducing Iceland for gentle exercise with stops and short walks throughout the day; our North and South Countryside and Absolute Iceland tours have long days and walks of 2-3 hours.

We provide outstanding, English speaking drivers and guides and guarantee their knowledge and enthusiasm will add to your enjoyment factor. When negotiating more challenging roads their experience will be welcomed!

All the hotels are of a good standard with en suite facilities. They are mostly small, with character and atmosphere, run by people who will provide a genuinely warm welcome.

Visit some of Iceland’s best known sights although our stated mission is to focus as much as possible on equally rewarding areas, on roads less travelled, often overlooked by others.

From a well-appointed coach with WiFi and spare seats for added comfort to a luxury Mercedes Sprinter 4WD vehicle, capable of reaching remote, out of the way places (see page 78).

©RTH Sigurdsson

©Cathy Harlow

©RTH Sigurdsson

©RTH Sigurdsson

©GG Travel

©RTH Sigurdsson

©RTH Sigurdsson



Introducing Iceland


Escorted tour

Keflavík

Reykjavík

Egilsstaðir

Skógar

Hveragerði

= Overnight stay

Hallormsstaður

Country Hotel HaliHella

Húsavík

Varmahlíð

©RTH Sigurdsson

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/introducing-iceland?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Introd

ucin

g Iceland

SnapshotA comprehensive guided tour with a mix of the well-known and not so well-known sights.


Prices from £2,362pp (two sharing)

Group size 12 to 20

Accommodation/Meals Tourist class hotels, half board (breakfast only in Reykjavík)

Departures June to August

Extend your stay with additional nights in Reykjavík

This gentle circumnavigation is hosted by an experienced Iceland guide. Discover the features that put the country on the map then get off the more popular routes for an insight into the real Iceland, which includes a social evening with a local family for an authentic glimpse of the Icelandic lifestyle. See the Golden Circle, the uninhabited highlands, rural greenery, coastal scenery, volcanic black sands and lavascapes, fishing villages with lively harbours, icecaps and glaciers, lagoons and lakes, gorges and bird

cliffs, geothermal baths and magnificent national parks – this truly gives you it all. Travel in comfort in a well-appointed coach equipped with WiFi. Where possible we use homely and well-appointed hotels. Three course meals included each evening (excluding Reykjavík) reflect a good mix of local dishes.

It is possible to extend the holiday with additional nights in Reykjavík at the beginning or end – or possibly combine it with one of our Greenland options.

This holiday has been designed to provide the most comprehensive introduction to Iceland possible, in the time allowed. Whilst not neglecting many of the sights for which Iceland is famous, travel off the beaten track to view some of the islands many hidden treasures, largely overlooked by other such holidays.

Highlights Enjoy the Golden Circle route

Venture into the Highlands

Explore Lake Mývatn

Húsavík whale watching (optional)

Discover the stunning East Fjords

Glaciers, waterfalls and more

Key locations include: Golden Circle, Skagafjörður, Húsavík, Hallormsstaður, Vatnajökull, Skógafoss

©RTH Sigurdsson

©AndersPeter ©North Sailing ©robas

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/introducing-iceland?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Best of the Midnight Sun


Escorted tour

Reykjavik

Myvatn

Askja

Keflavik

HusavikSiglufjordur

= Overnight stay

Akureyri

©North Sailing

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/best-of-the-midnight-sun?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Best of th

e Mid

nigh

t Su

n

SnapshotA special one-off departure to coincide with the height of the midnight sun


Prices from £2,190 (two sharing, excl flights)

Group size 6 to 16

Accommodation/Meals Standard class hotels, breakfast in Reykjavik, half board in the countryside plus 1 packed lunch

Departures 20 June only

Following your arrival at Keflavík, transfer to Reykjavík for an overnight stay. Day two brings an afternoon flight north to Akureyri, dinner at your hotel then sightseeing of the beautiful fjord and scenic surrounds until the early hours.

It won’t take long to get familiar with the body clock adjustment on this itinerary as the extended daylight hours are surprisingly invigorating.

With similar late sightseeing around magnificent Mývatn, Askja and a possible eruption site, as well as a late evening visit to thundering Dettifoss, you’ll see the very best of Iceland’s north east away from the usual crowds of summer visitors. And the highlight has to be a sailing from Húsavík out into Skalfjandi Bay under the glorious glow of the midnight sun – perhaps accompanied by some friendly cetaceans.

The aim of this itinerary is to maximise your enjoyment of the wonderful golden light and extended days during the height of Iceland’s summer. Sightseeing takes place from late afternoon until the early hours allowing you to have the countryside practically to yourself.

Highlights Midnight Sun cruise

Explore Akureyri, beautiful Eyjafjörður and beyond

Marvel at the volcanic curiousities around Mývatn

Visit mighty Dettifoss

Key locations include: Akureyri, Lake Mývatn and surrounds, Ásbyrgi, Askja, Dettifoss

©RTH Sigurdsson ©robas ©subtik

©Saga Travel

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/best-of-the-midnight-sun?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Luxury TouringEscorted tour

Mitchell, Absolute Iceland, 2014

Gummi is another of Iceland’s treasures! His knowledge and love of his country inspired us to want to get even deeper into the culture and landscape and visit the more remote places he told us about. His transport was excellent and we felt like celebrities whenever we arrived at places of interest as people wanted to have their photos taken with the bus.

78 All our holidays are covered by our 100% Guarantee, see page 6 ©GG Travel



Touring in StyleWe are working closely with Gummi Gunnarsson, a pioneer of Highland driving and his specially adapted, super cool 4WD Mercedes Benz Sprinters or we prefer ‘super trucks’.

Gummi has a tremendous amount of experience in travelling around his homeland and he knows places to visit not generally found in the major guidebooks. Throughout your time on one of our ‘luxury touring’ options, you’ll be kept engaged, well-informed and entertained!

The Super TrucksThese 3.2L Mercedes Benz Sprinter ‘super trucks’ carry up to 17 people in gloriously padded comfort, from the moment you leave your accommodation to the time you pull up on top of a glacier with Iceland’s breathtaking scenery laid out before you. Fording rivers and streams, negotiating impossibly rough ground and whatever else Iceland can throw at them, travelling by super truck is the ultimate way to explore. With 42” tyres and raised suspension, a super truck can travel virtually anywhere and Gummi has never yet been beaten when it comes to inclines!

Gummi’s grandfather, Guðmundur Jónasson, was one of the first to introduce to Iceland the kind of vehicles that suited the often impossible terrain. During WWII, large weapon carriers with 4WD or 6WD made for transporting cargo and not people were

brought to Iceland. Gummi’s grandfather bought a few of these vehicles and converted them into buses; he bought a Bombardier snowmobile too and went on many trips ferrying people around and even saved an airplane from a glacier.

From a very early age, Gummi accompanied his grandfather, instilling in him a respect for the nature around him and a desire to continually look at innovative ways to carry visitors into the land that he loved. This personal connection and years of experience means you’ll be in the safest of hands whilst enjoying a thrilling ride through unbelievable scenery, available on a select number of our small-group guided departures: Southern Countryside and Highlands, Northern Countryside and Highlands and our crowning glory, Absolute Iceland - full details are provided on our website.

Lu

xury T

ourin

g

©RTH Sigurdsson

©GG Travel©GG Travel ©GG Travel



Southern Countryside & Highlands

SnapshotA small group guided tour of some of Iceland’s most attractive scenery in a luxury mini-coach

Duration 6 days / 5 nights

Prices from £1,404 per person (twin share, excl flights)

Group size 10 maximum

Accommodation/Meals Hotel Selid, full board basis inc picnic lunches

Departures July only

This 6 day tour covers Iceland’s beautiful south and many of its iconic natural wonders. Head inland and experience the colourful mountains and extensive lava fields of the breathtaking Landmannalaugar area. Explore Þórsmörk and see the effects of the Eyjafjallajökull eruption from 2010, before travelling back via the Reykjanes Peninsula.

Highlights Explore hot springs and geysers

Waterfalls, icecaps and spectacular coastal scenery

Swim in a naturally heated pool

Escorted tour

From a beautifully situated countryside hotel used for the duration of the trip, discover the natural wonders of the Golden Circle route: tiered Gullfoss, considered by many to be Iceland’s finest waterfall; Geysir, where you’ll find Strokkur erupting regularly to around 30m, as well as rift-scarred Þingvellir National Park, and historic site of the ancient Víking Parliament, to be explored on foot.

Visit the waterfall Seljalandsfoss which cascades over a former sea cliff and opt to walk behind its shimmering curtain of water to admire the panoramic view from within.

Photographs of Landmannalaugar never really do it justice – it is an immense and stunning area; explore rhyolite mountains

and seemingly endless lava fields before continuing to the wooded valley of Þórsmörk, surrounded on three sides by mighty glaciers. The luxury 4WD vehicle has no problem crossing the valley floor, strewn with rocks and boulders, and a number of fast flowing rivers.

This is a popular area for hiking and it may be possible to get fairly close to the eruption site of the infamous Eyjafjallajökull volcano. Drive over vast glacial outwash plains to the Mýrdalsjökull glacier where there are spectacular walks and at Skógar, visit a folk museum and see the nearby waterfall seen on many an Icelandic postcard. Continue to the rock arch at Dyrholaey and finally the Reykjanes Peninsula.

©Gunter Hohenstrater

Hotel Selid

Keflavik

= Overnight stay

©RTH Sigurdsson ©MartinM303 ©trofotodesign


Cou

ntrysid

e & H

ighlan

ds T

ours

Northern Countryside & Highlands

SnapshotA small group guided tour of some of Iceland’s most dramatic scenery in a luxury mini-coach

Duration 7 days / 6 nights

Prices from £1,709 per person (twin share, excl flights)

Group size 10 maximum

Accommodation/Meals Alda Reykjavík 1 (breakfast basis), Tindastól 1, Laxá 3, Highland 1 – full board inc picnic lunches

Departures July only

This week long tour traverses Iceland’s spectacular interior twice, giving you a tremendous appreciation for the stark and mesmeric landscape that so dominates a large part of the island. See too, the volcanic northeast with the highlight, Lake Mývatn and the many amazing features that are found close by; finish with the rugged Reykjanes Peninsula.

Highlights Traverse two Highland routes

across the interior

See volcanic and geothermal features galore

Explore Lake Mývatn and its scenic surrounds

After an overnight in the capital, head from Reykjavík into rural Iceland before taking the Kjölur route north into the Highlands, travelling across rivers, grey moraine and a vast plateau-like landscape between the glaciers of Langjökull and Hofsjökull. After this dusty route, have a chance to bathe in a natural hot spring.

Continue north to Siglufjörður, Akureyri, the gorgeous waterfall of Goðafoss and on to Mývatn, the base for the next 3 nights. Explore the lake’s lunar-like surrounds and perhaps head to Askja and Viti, the area where NASA astronauts trained before their moon landings - this is dependent on any volcanic activity in the area at the time.

The bubbling mud pools and steaming fumaroles of Námaskarð provide great photo opportunities; walk amongst pseudocraters and lava stacks and observe the lake’s prolific birdlife.

Take the Sprengisandur route across the magnificent interior between the glaciers of Hofsjökull and Vatnajökull and stay overnight in a remote location in the Highlands before continuing to the rugged Reykjanes Peninsula.

See bird cliffs, the geothermal area of Krysuvík and where tectonic plates divide the country before flying back to the UK.

Escorted tour

©MichaelUtech

Keflavik

Myvatn

= Overnight stay

Saudarkrokur

Hotel HighlandReykjavik

Askja

©Fyletto ©Fyle ©Will Gray

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/northern-countryside-highlands?utm_source=IcelandBro2015

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/northern-countryside-highlands?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Absolute Iceland


Escorted tour

= Overnight stay

Brunnholl

Kirkjubaejarklaustur

Keflavík

Skógar

Selid

Rjukandi

Patreksfjörður

Suðureyri

Akureyri Mývatn

Raudaskrida Borgardfjordur Eystri

Sauðárkrókur

Laugarhóll

Þingvellir GullfossGeysir

Efsti Dalur II

©RTH Sigurdsson

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/absolute-iceland?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Absolu

te Iceland

SnapshotOur flagship tour takes you to parts of Iceland other vehicles cannot reach!


Prices from £3,900pp (two sharing excl flights)

Group size 10 to 15

Accommodation/Meals Standard hotels with private facilities on a half board basis

Departures June to August

Our superb flagship tour, designed to provide the ultimate Iceland guided experience, circumnavigates the country in style! With several stops of two nights, the pace is relaxed yet it is also quite active, with walks of between 1 and 2 hours most days in addition to the occasional longer hike.

Highlights See the wilder side of Iceland

Explore off the beaten track in a luxury 4WD vehicle

Includes some two-night stops for a more relaxed itinerary

Walks of 1-2+ hours (most days)

Evening meal hosted by an Icelandic family

Key locations include: Golden Circle, Snæfellsnes, West Fjords, Lake Mývatn, Borgarfjörður Eystri, Vatnajökull

Join a small group and explore both the main places of interest in Iceland and a number of its hidden gems, during a trip that drives full circle around this amazing country, including the less-visited West Fjords region. Relax in comfort, focus on the breathtaking and very grand scenery and no doubt, fall under Iceland’s spell. Get out and experience Iceland’s diversity on 1-2+ hour walks almost daily, in a variety of stunning locations. Your driver/guide, Gummi Gunnarsson is a fountain of knowledge and there is probably no one better to accompany you. His expertise

and enthusiasm is second to none and his massive 4WD supertruck certainly stands out – you’ll feel like a VIP.

This comprehensive itinerary includes many of Iceland’s best waterfalls; black sand beaches and precipitous fjords; bubbling mud pools, hot springs and steaming fumaroles; magnificent glaciers, icebergs and mountains; sweeping golden beaches; lakes and rivers galore; quaint towns and villages; historical sites and picturesque churches; basalt canyons and extensive lavascapes; craters and volcanoes – the list is literally endless!

©RTH Sigurdsson

©RTH Sigurdsson©RTH Sigurdsson



Outline Itinerary

Day 1: Keflavík-Efsti Dalur II

Arrive at Keflavík Airport and meet your

group, driver and guide. Drive the backroads

to the farm, Efsti Dalur II, for your first taste

of rural Iceland. Overnight here.

Day 2: Golden Circle-Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Iceland’s Golden Circle is a trio of natural

wonders and of course rather popular with

visitors: see the much admired Gullfoss,

a lovely two-tiered waterfall; watch the

geyser Strokkur erupt time after time and

explore Þingvellir National Park, where the

historic Alþingi assembled amongst imposing

volcanic rifts and brooding mountains. Head

towards Snæfellsnes, for dinner and an

overnight stay.

Day 3: Snæfellsnes-West Fjords

Travel around the base of Snæfellsjökull,

an ice-capped volcanic cone then see the

cluster of shapely craters and rugged lava

flows in the heart of the national park.

Admire coastal rock arches, shaped by the

pounding surf, look out for sea birds and

possibly Arctic foxes along the basalt cliffs.

View Kirkjufell, a steeple-shaped peak then

continue to Stykkishólmur, for the afternoon

ferry across Breiðafjörður, a calm bay dotted

with hundreds of tiny islands. Today’s long

but scenic journey ends at Patreksfjörður

- 2 nights here.

Day 4: Látrabjarg-Rauðisandur

At Iceland’s most westerly point, enjoy

a leg stretch on the coastal path along

Látrabjarg’s 400m high cliffs and, with luck,

see eye to eye with puffins, razorbills and

guillemots. Stroll on a vast deserted sandy

beach ringed by beautiful mountains.

Day 5: Dynjandi-Suðureyri

Marvel at the sheer mountains, deep-blue

fjords and tiny fishing villages of Iceland’s

isolated West Fjords. Stop at Dynjandi and

admire the region’s finest waterfall, Fjallfoss

(better known as Dynjandi) as it drops

100m, fanning out over multiple layers of

rock. Overnight at Suðureyri, a traditional

fishing village.

Day 6: Ísafjörður-Laugarhóll

Trace the scenic fjords from Ísafjörður to

Laugarhóll. Enjoy short walks and views

of the seals near Litlibær, a restored turf

cottage and café, with mouth-watering

views across the sea to Drangajökull icecap.

Watch eiders cruise by as you soak in a

geothermal pool on the shore. Overnight in

the area.

Day 7: Laugarhóll-Sauðárkrókur

Travel through fertile valleys and sheep

country to Skagafjörður then visit historic

Víðimýri church, built from driftwood.

Overnight in the area.

Day 8: Sauðárkrókur-Húsavík

Onwards to Akureyri, a town of fine timber

homes, an attractive modern church and

Absolute IcelandItinerary

©RTH Sigurdsson

©RTH Sigurdsson ©RTH Sigurdsson ©bxzhit



colourful Botanic Gardens. Then head for

Goðafoss, a lovely symmetrical waterfall,

and visit an original turf farmstead en route

to Húsavík. Afternoon/evening whale watch

(optional & pre-bookable) - 2 nights in the area.

Day 9: Lake Mývatn

Spend the day exploring and walking among

the volcanic and geothermal wonders of Lake

Mývatn, including lava formations, mud pools

and craters. Look for the great northern diver,

Slavonian grebe and other wildfowl at this top

birding location and take an optional dip at

the Nature Baths (payable locally), the north’s

answer to the Blue Lagoon.

Day 10: Jökulsá-Borgarfjörður Eystri

Explore Jökulsá Canyon’s strange eroded

landforms, abundant flora and waterfalls large

and small then witness the incredible power

of Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful. Cross

the inland desert to Borgarfjörður Eystri,

recipient of the EDEN award for sustainable

tourism - 2 nights in this charming village.

Day 11: Borgarfjörður Eystri

A relaxing day, walking and exploring colourful

rhyolite mountains, greatly praised by artists

and photographers.

Day 12: Borgarfjörður Eystri-Vatnajökull

Witness the ice-scoured landscape of East

Iceland on a dramatic coastal drive, and

enjoy short walks on the journey south

to Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest icecap.

Overnight in the area.

Day 13: Vatnajökull-Kirkjubæjarklaustur

Stroll along the shore of a glacial lagoon and

wonder at the infinite variety of icebergs

mirrored on its surface. The ice is calved from

one of a dozen glaciers you’ll view along

the southern rim of Vatnajökull National

Park. Walk to a viewpoint over a glacier,

pierced with deep crevasses. Continue to

Kirkjubæjarklaustur - 2 nights in the area.

Day 14: Laki craters

A scenic highland drive to the Lakagigar

craters, formed after the powerful 1783

eruption. Walk through moss-clad lava

from the 100 or more craters, and climb

Mt Laki (optional) for sweeping views.

Stop at Fagrifoss waterfall, and a

remarkable gorge on the way back.

Day 15: Kirkjubæjarklaustur-Selid

Gaze out over the black sands and wave-

lashed cliffs near Vík and feel the spray

on your face as you stand at the foot

of Skógafoss, an impressive and much-

photographed, 60m high waterfall.

Continue on a challenging drive along the

base of Eyjafjallajökull volcano, to spectacular

Þórsmörk Valley. Walk in a landscape of

gorges, glaciers and torrents. After a quick

stop at Seljalandsfoss falls, end the day at

Hotel Selid and enjoy a farewell dinner.

Day 16: Hella-Keflavík

Head along the south shore of Reykjanes

to Keflavík Airport, for your flight home.

Absolu

te Iceland

All images ©RTH Sigurdsson



Iceland’s Winter Wonderland


With the allure of the northern lights, the winter months are a fantastic time to make a visit to Iceland. Enjoy the autumnal colours and wintery landscapes, as long shadows and golden lights offer wonderful photographic opportunities. Thanks to the warming influence of the Gulf Stream, Iceland enjoys much warmer weather during the winter than many other places at this latitude.

©James Woodend/imagesinspiredbynature.com

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/northern-lights?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Iceland

’s Win

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derlan

d

If you are planning to search for the

northern lights then be sure to spend at

least part of your holiday based in the

Icelandic countryside, away from the light

pollution of Reykjavík. And if you are able

to visit between December and March, take

a few days to do some whale watching

for orcas off the Snæfellsnes Peninsula -

sightings of orca and the aurora, have been

tremendously successful in recent seasons.

We offer an extensive range of

guided and self-drive tours to Iceland

during the winter months – further

details can be found on our website

and in our ’Arctic Experience’ brochure,

which also contains a fabulous

collection of winter holidays to

Sweden, Norway, Finland, Canada

and Alaska.


http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/northern-lights?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Winter Self-Drive Highlights Explore at your own pace

Stay in cosy guesthouses and hotels

Keep watch for the northern lights

All vehicles are 4WD fitted with studded tyres

Take advantage of our exclusive iDiscover digital travel guide

The freedom that comes from driving in Iceland is as enjoyable in winter as it is over the summer. There’s nothing more thrilling than seeing Iceland’s magnificent scenery bathed in crisp winter sunshine, but even if the weather is inclement we’re prepared – and so will you be.

Most of our winter self-drive itineraries explore the south and southwest of Iceland. You might choose to base yourself at a charming countryside hotel – such as Hotel Rangá on the south coast or boutique Hotel Glymur on Hvalfjörður, and then take day trips out into your scenic surrounds. Alternatively, if you wish to branch out a little further, holidays like Essential Iceland might be more to your taste.

A self-drive adventure means you can do as much, or as little, as you like. One of the benefits of travelling in winter is that you’ll have many of Iceland’s famous sites almost to yourself but as well as natural wonders like the Golden Circle, there is also a variety of optional excursions that can be added to your holiday. How about

going snowmobiling on a glacier, or taking a whale watching trip to spot orcas off the Snæfellsnes Peninsula? The winter months also come with the possibility of seeing yet another natural spectacle: the northern lights. Getting away from the light pollution of the capital gives you the greatest chance of spotting the aurora – one of the best places to keep watch, in our opinion, is from the hot tubs you’ll find at many hotels.

Icelanders are well prepared for the winter season; you’ll find a warm welcome and local knowledge at your disposal wherever you stay, and as a Discover the World client you’ll be in doubly safe hands. Your hire car comes with an iPad Air with access to our exclusive digital travel guide iDiscover. This includes a

number of useful apps to monitor both road and weather conditions, as well as your itinerary and a number of ‘hidden gems’ for you to discover. Plus all the vehicles we use in winter are equipped with 4WD and studded tyres – some even have heated seats!

©Stanislav Moroz


©RTH Sigurdsson


Iceland

’s Win

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Winter EscortedHighlights Travel with knowledgeable

and enthusiastic guides

Stay in characterful properties

Explore Iceland’s magnificent landscapes

Search for the northern lights, with the experts

Take advantage of our annual special departures and exclusive itineraries

Travelling as part of a small, escorted group in winter has many advantages. Concentrate on enjoying yourself and the camaraderie of travelling in a small group, accompanied by our expert guides and drivers.

A small group tour can help you really get under the skin of Iceland. Return home feeling that you’ve not simply seen this incredible island but really experienced it! One of the best things about travelling with a group is being able to share your passions with like-

minded people; our winter tours have a maximum number of 29 participants, and cater to a range of interests.

Searching for the northern lights is a facet of all our winter escorted holidays, with evening excursions based on the most up to date aurora information available, and all in areas where you have the best possible chance of success – away from the light pollution of built up areas. However, as this natural phenomenon can never be guaranteed, we’ve planned our itineraries so that there’s plenty to interest you during the daytime.

A perennial favourite is our Orcas and Aurora holiday on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, perfect for keen whale watchers who also want to take in some of Iceland’s natural wonders.

This corner of the country is still relatively off the beaten track, and well worth exploring. Between December and March the herring-rich waters in the fjords outside the fishing village of Grundarfjörður attract pods of orca, dolphins and a range of seabirds; best seen on boat trips with our cetacean experts but also often visible from the shore.

There are also trips which focus more on exploring Iceland’s incredible volcanic landscape. For example on Volcanoes and Northern Lights, travel on a specially designed 8WD vehicle, literally where other vehicles cannot reach, to see the sites on the Golden Circle route and way beyond. We also offer semi-escorted festive departures for a Christmas or New Year with a difference – contact our Iceland specialists to help find the right trip for you.

©RTH Sigurdsson

©John A Davis©RTH Sigurdsson©RTH Sigurdsson




Introducing Greenland


The fleeting Arctic summer brings

24 hours of daylight and, north of

the Arctic Circle, the midnight sun.

During summer, the pack ice breaks

up and giant icebergs drift through

the fjords, migratory birds arrive to

breed and hardy Arctic flora bloom

and scatter seed. Traditionally a

small-scale hunting and fishing

society, East Greenland in particular

still retains the charm of its tiny

coastal settlements, and rural life,

lightly touched by the western

world - 90% of Greenland’s

population lives in scattered

settlements along the west coast.

Getting thereFlight information is shown on page

106 as well as on our website. Air travel

usually accounts for a large proportion

of the cost of a trip to Greenland; talk

to our team about your budget and

preferred holiday duration and let

us create a trip which gives you

maximum value for your money!

Greenland is a land ruled by the

weather. Travel delays can happen

anywhere, but are in reality more likely

here due to extremes of weather. For

this reason, we recommend adding

overnight stays at either end of your

Greenland holiday in Reykjavík.

An island of great proportions, Greenland is dominated by the world’s second largest icecap. Only a narrow coastal fringe of rugged mountains and intensely green valleys, remain ice-free, allowing a resilient and determined community to live at the edge of the habitable world.

Thule

Sisimiut

Disko Island Scoresby Sund

Uummannaq

Ilulissat✈

✈

✈

✈

✈ ✈

Kangerlussuaq

Nuuk

Paamiut

Narsaq

Qaqortoq

Narsarsuaq

KulusukTasiilaq

International Airport

Greenland

Iceland

United Kingdom

GREENLAND

©ilovegreenland.com


Introd

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land

discover-the-world.co.uk Talk to the experts 01737 214 282 91

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/greenland-holidays?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


The EastSettlements in this sparsely inhabited region are almost

entirely limited to the Tasiilaq (Ammassalik) area. Reached

by helicopter or boat transfer from Kulusuk, it has become

the hub for dog sledding trips in early spring. Here you’ll

also find that traditional fishing, hunting and carving methods

are still used. Excursions are available (booked locally) by boat,

4WD and helicopter, as well as an array of hiking possibilities.

Our Traditional East Greenland or East Greenland Wanderer

tours also explore this area.

West Coast and Disko BayDisko Bay’s incredible calving glaciers include the most

productive in the world, which advances 30m every 24 hours.

Some of its icebergs can be several kilometres in length and

are a photographer’s delight.

Disko Bay has been at the centre of Inuit settlement for thousands of years and many valuable archaeological finds have been made there. The bay still supports a number of Greenlandic villages, among them Saqqaq and Rodebay, where visitors can observe the traditional hunting and fishing way of life. The centre of the region is Greenland’s fourth largest town, Ilulissat. Cruises along the west coast are popular - consider the Greenland Coastal Voyage aboard the local ferry Sarfaq Ittuk. For details speak to our team or visit our website.

The SouthThis is the island’s agricultural centre and, as elsewhere in Greenland, the scenery is amazing and surprisingly for some, it is particularly colourful. The verdant landscape is dotted with towns and villages and there are working sheep farms as well as Inuit and Norse ruins. Narsarsuaq, the community founded

in 1941 as a US Air Base, makes a good base for exploring.

92 All our holidays are covered by our 100% Guarantee, see page 6 ©ilovegreenland.com


When to travel?The Arctic spring, between March and May, ushers in longer hours of daylight, bearable temperatures and snowy landscapes. Dog sledding can be experienced in East Greenland (Kulusuk and Tasiilaq). June brings perpetual day, melting snow and ice in the fjords and an awakening of the wildlife. As a result, boat trips to glaciers, settlements and sites of historical interest are once again available all over the country.

The summer, which often runs all the way from June into early September, is Greenland’s high season, however May and September offer mild temperatures and tend to be a quieter time to travel. Summer temperatures average around 11°C but can feel surprisingly warm in the sheltered fjords and valleys. By late August the cold nights start drawing in, with new snow usually arriving in mid-September.

Flora and wildlifeOver 500 species of plant and several thousand mosses, lichen and fungi are found in Greenland, with saxifrages and Arctic poppies colouring the landscape in the summer, particularly in July and August, depending on the snowmelt. Along with the reindeer, the musk ox roams Greenland’s landscape, particularly in the vicinity of Kangerlussuaq. The polar bear is a rare visitor to inhabited areas, and may be seen in remote hunting grounds in North and East Greenland.

Wolves, Arctic foxes, mountain hares and other small land mammals are also found, but are not often seen close to civilisation. Around 60 species of bird breed in Greenland, including the white-tailed eagle. As for whales, it is most common to see fin, humpback and minke although species such as the bowhead, blue and sperm whale also frequent Greenlandic waters, especially during summer.

Excursions and independent exploration Around many of Greenland’s 18 towns there are well-trodden hiking routes of varying difficulty, which can be completed within two or three hours. Alternatively, try a guided hike or opt for an excursion by boat, 4WD or helicopter. Excursions are best booked locally due to minimum numbers and varying weather conditions.

Note: for expedition cruises to Greenland, visit our website or contact us.

Introd

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All images ©ilovegreenland.com



Greenland HolidaysDiscover Greenland’s largely untouched and rugged coastline on a voyage; explore its wide open spaces on a walking holiday; go husky sledding through its frozen wilderness or enjoy the magnificent scenery on one or more excursions. Details of all our itineraries are available on our website or by contacting our specialist team.

A night in Reykjavík at either end of your Greenland tour is strongly recommended, to allow for any weather delays (this is included in the stated number of nights).


Greenland holiday flights

Flights between Iceland and Greenland are INCLUDED for holidays mentioned on pages 95-97. Flights between the UK and Iceland are EXCLUDED.



East GreenlandVirtually the only populated area on the vast east coast, the district of Ammassalik (encompassing Tasiilaq and Kulusuk) is only a two hour flight from Reykjavík - additional nights can be added in Iceland or Greenland, subject to flight schedules.

Green

land

Holid

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Hiking in East Greenland

Explore this striking region on well-paced guided day walks, returning to your comfortable hotel each evening.

Duration 6 or 9 nights

Prices from £1,583pp(two sharing, inc Iceland-Greenland flights only, 2 nights Reykjavik breakfast basis, full board Greenland)

East Greenland Wanderer (Kulusuk and Tasiilaq)

Independent hiking holiday with comfortable hotel accommodation.

Duration 9 nights

Prices from £1,679pp (two sharing, inc Iceland-Greenland flights only, 2 nights Reykjavik breakfast basis, full board Greenland)

Traditional East Greenland (Kulusuk, Tasiilaq, or both)

A flexible short break perfect as an add on to a stay in Iceland.

Duration 6 or 9 nights

Prices from £937pp (two sharing, inc Iceland-Greenland flights only, 2 nights Reykjavik breakfast basis, full board Greenland)

©Cathy Harlow

All images ©ilovegreenland.com

©Cathy Harlow



West GreenlandIt is possible to explore the ice-choked fjords and glacier-scoured valleys from Ilulissat, or alternatively, sail between here and Narsaq on board the Greenlandic ferry MV Sarfaq Ittuk. A comfortable yet functional ship, she offers an invaluable service to the local communities as well as transport for visitors to this glorious coastline.


Greenland Coastal Voyage (sailing between Ilulissat and Narsarsuaq)

An authentic slice of Greenlandic life using the local ferry and staying at comfortable hotels.

Duration 7 nights (June-August)

Prices from £2,973pp (two sharing, inc Iceland-Greenland flights only, 2 nights Reykjavik & 2 nights Greenland breakfast only, plus 3 nights on board ship, room only basis)

Essential West Greenland (Ilulissat)

An independent break with comfortable hotel accommodation.

Duration 5-6 nights (June to mid-September)

Prices from £1,656pp (two sharing, inc Iceland-Greenland flights only, 2 nights Reykjavik breakfast only, Greenland breakfast + welcome and farewell dinners)

The modern town of Ilulissat sits approximately 200km above the Arctic Circle, mid-way along the west coast at the mouth of a 56km

long ice fjord, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is here that you’ll find famous Disko Bay. Hotel Arctic boasts a restaurant

with incredible views over the bay’s icebergs, with award-winning chefs creating mouth-watering cuisine. Just a couple of kilometres

from Ilulissat, you’ll find the idyllic Sermermiut valley, which in 1727, was Greenland’s biggest settlement. Today, the town is home

to at least 4,000 sled dogs, and the harbour is full of fishing boats and trawlers. Should you opt to cruise on board the Sarfaq Ittuk,

accommodation is in outside cabins. The beautiful, verdant south contrasts spectacularly with the icebergs of Disko Bay.


©mlenny


South GreenlandHere you will view historic sites from the Víking Age, the inland icecap, fertile mountains, sheep farms, deep blue fjords with multi-coloured icebergs and calving glaciers - all within short range of your hotel. Southern Greenland offers an amazing variety of scenery and is probably the most accessible region of Greenland. The climate is also surprisingly good and in short, the region has much to recommend it.

Green

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Holid

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©Sea Temple

©Cathy Harlow

South Greenland Explorer

A perfect option for those who enjoy hiking through extraordinary and colourful scenery.

Duration 5 or 6 nights (June-August)

Prices from £1,248pp (two sharing inc Iceland-Greenland flights only, 2 nights Reykjavik & 3 or 4 nights Greenland breakfast only + welcome and farewell dinners)

In the Footsteps of Erik the Red

Immerse yourself in the remote and beautiful landscape of the region.

Duration 13 nights (June-August)

Prices from £2,917pp (inc Iceland-Greenland flights only, 2 nights Reykjavik breakfast only, dormitory accommodation in Greenland on full board basis)

Optional excursions

A variety of excursions are available in Greenland, which may be booked and paid for locally. Dependent on location and time of year,

these may include village walks, iceberg and midnight sun cruises, visits to remote hunters’ settlements, fishing tours, helicopter trips to

the icecap, whale watching safaris and husky encounters - further information is posted on our website or contact us. Please note, all

excursions are dependent on weather conditions and minimum numbers - some may not operate from March to end of May.



Greenland Explorer


Expedition voyage

My family had the most fantastic time, we could not have asked for more! The mountains of ice around Sissimiut and Disko Bay, the wonderful visits to indigenous communities and the fantastic Viking history we were not aware of - tremendous. The expedition team were amazing - always full of stories and interesting facts, and we spoke to many locals who gave us wonderful insights into life at these extremes.

Diane Watling

ReykjavíkPrins

Christian Sund

Qaqortoq

Paamiut

Uunartoq

Davis Strait

Denmark Strait

Baffin Bay

Kangerlussuaq

Nuuk

Skjoldungen

Intelliq

Ilulissat

Equip Sermia

GREENLAND

ICELAND

Sisimiut


http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/greenland-holidays/greenland-explorer?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Green

land

Exp

lorer

SnapshotVoyage from east to west around the southern tip of Greenland


Prices from £5,600pp (two sharing a cabin, inc flight Kangerlussuaq-Copenhagen only - excl flight UK-Iceland and Copenhagen-UK)

Accommodation/Meals 12 nights full board on the Sea Adventurer plus I night pre-voyage in Reykjavík and 1 night post voyage in Copenhagen, both on breakfast basis

Departures August

The world’s largest island is home to the planet’s greatest fjords and most active glaciers outside of Antarctica. You will be dwarfed by the sheer size and scale of nature in Greenland, where wildlife and the forces of nature reign supreme.

Place names such as the Fjord of Eternity and Cape Farewell hint at the grandeur that lies ahead, with diverse icebergs and dramatic mountains a constant theme of your voyage.

Marvel at the abundance of wildflowers and keep your eyes peeled for whales and other marine wildlife. Encounter an

ancient culture surviving in a modern world, historic Norse and Víking settlements and remote Inuit communities that still use dog sleds as their main method of transportation. Take an opportunity to relax in natural hot springs whilst watching icebergs passing by, and explore by Zodiac or kayak.

This is truly an outstanding voyage with countless photo opportunities throughout. Enjoy a night in Iceland’s capital prior to embarkation as well as a night in Copenhagen after the voyage.

This comprehensive exploration of Greenland’s spectacular coastline starts in the east and continues around the southern tip of the island. Cruise the length of immense fjords and spend time with local Inuit communities to gain a real insight into this dramatic country’s rich history.

Highlights Marvel at spectacular mountain scenery

Visit remote Inuit settlements

Keep watch for a variety of marine wildlife

Key locations include: Skjoldungen, Cape Farewell, Nuuk, Ilulissat

Also consider...Our Greenland Northern Lights Cruise - a spectacular 13-night September voyage, exploring extensive coastline with a good chance of aurora sightings.

©Quark Expeditions

©RudiGruetter ©Graham Charles©ilovegreenland.com

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/greenland-holidays/greenland-explorer?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Greenland Base Camp


Land-based adventure

We saw icebergs 15m high and it was amazing to peer over the side of the boat and see how far they went underwater. With the sun glistening over the ripples in the ocean, it was a very beautiful moment and one my photos just couldn’t capture.

Amy Snow, Nordic Sales Manager KulusukTasiilaq

Base Camp

Tinitiqilaaq

GREENLAND

©Footage.Pro

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/greenland-holidays/greenland-base-camp?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Green

land

Base C

amp

SnapshotEnjoy a small group adventure with a maximum of 12 participants, exploring the sights of Greenland’s wild east coast


Prices from £6,427pp (two sharing, inc flights between Iceland and Greenland only)

Accommodation/Meals The Red House 3 nights, Base Camp 4 nights, Hotel Odinsve, Reykjavík 1 night, all on full board basis

Departures August-September

Fly from Reykjavík to Kulusuk Island, Greenland then take a spectacular helicopter flight to the colourful town of Tasiilaq on Ammassalik Island, where you’ll stay at The Red House for 3 nights. Keep active during this trip with a full-day whale-watching excursion on the open waters of the Greenland Sea, on the lookout for seals, orcas, fin, minke and humpback whales. Choose an easy walk to the beautiful Valley of the Flowers or opt for a kayaking trip across the bay. An evening demonstration of Greenlandic drumming and dancing provides an

authentic introduction to Greenland’s cultural heritage. Journey by boat around Ammassallik Island stopping at sites of interest en route to Sermilik Fjord and Base Camp; from here visit Inuit communities, kayak amongst icebergs, hike across a mountainous landscape and search for a variety of wildlife. Each evening sit back for a range of presentations about Greenland’s fauna, geology, glaciology and human history and enjoy final views of Greenland from the sea and the air as you return to civilisation, with a farewell dinner back in Reykjavík.

Stay in comfort and seclusion in a safari-style camp, surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of East Greenland’s Sermilik Fjord. Search for whales as you kayak through brash ice, hike across pristine glaciers and spend time with remote Inuit communities on this small-group adventure in the heart of the wilderness.

Highlights Cruise or paddle amongst icebergs in

search of whales and other wildlife

Hike through wildflowers, over glaciers and alongside fjords

Sleep in an isolated Arctic safari-camp at the edge of the Greenland icecap

Visit Inuit communities and learn about the native way of life

Kayaking, hiking and Zodiac cruises included

Key locations include: Tasiilaq, Sermilik Fjord


©AndersStenbakken ©ilovegreenland.com ©ilovegreenland.com

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/greenland-holidays/greenland-base-camp?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Extend your holiday in Canada or Alaska


Alaska and Canada hold great appeal for those looking to travel off the beaten track. Vast open spaces, incredibly diverse landscapes, great wildlife watching opportunities and some vibrant cities mean all kinds of possibilities. With Iceland sitting conveniently in the middle of the Atlantic, you’re already halfway there… and as Icelandair now offer a number of flights to North America direct from Keflavík, you have the perfect excuse to extend your holiday!

Getting there

Airfares from the UK to North America start

from around an extra £350 per person,

on top of the basic Iceland fare (including

taxes), and permit a stop of up to 7 nights in

Iceland at no additional flight charge. Flight

time from Keflavík to Halifax is 4.5 hours,

whilst Icelandair offer the fastest flights from

the UK to Alaska, hopping over the Arctic

direct from Keflavík to Anchorage in just 7

hours. North American gateways include

Anchorage, Vancouver and Halifax during

the summer, with flights to Toronto and

Edmonton operating year round.

As destination specialists, we offer a

wealth of holiday options throughout

Canada and Alaska, and offer a

comprehensive tailor made service.

Opposite are a few of our recommended

options for an extension to your

Iceland holiday to get you started.

Iceland and Canada have had a long standing and close relationship, which began over one thousand years ago when Icelander Leifur Eiríksson famously landed in L’Anse aux Meadows in Newfoundland… Today, no foreign country has more inhabitants of Icelandic descent than Canada. Such is the unity between these two countries

Embassy of Iceland, Ottawa

You can find further

inspiration on our

website or in our

Canada and Alaska

brochure – or contact

our team of destination

specialists for advice.

©Earl Eliason

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/canada-holidays?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Exten

d you

r holid

ay in C

anad

a or Alaska

Alaska by Rail, Road & Sea

7 nights, from £1,173pp excl flights

Fly to Anchorage for an exploration of the Alaskan wilderness, including Prince William Sound, Denali National Park and a journey on the iconic Alaskan Railroad.

Celtic Trail

6 nights, from £514pp excl flights

Explore both sides of the Atlantic with a short hop to Halifax. Visit Nova Scotia’s charming coastal villages and the stunning scenery of the Cape Breton Highlands

Grizzlies & Orcas of Vancouver Island

5 nights, from £1,413pp excl flights

Journey from the Atlantic to the Pacific to explore Vancouver Island’s pristine coastal rainforests and countless inlets in search of Canadian wildlife.

Ontario Wineries & Resorts

5 nights, from £451pp excl flights

From the city of Toronto visit many vineyards and the thundering falls at Niagara, before enjoying a relaxing stay amongst the beautiful lakes and forests of rural Ontario.

The Víking Trail

Duration & prices vary

For a truly epic adventure follow the trail of the Víkings in their discovery of the New World. Remains of a settlement have been discovered at L’Anse aux Meadows, Newfoundland, dating the ‘discovery’ of North America back to around the year 1000. Explore the saga sites of west and south Iceland and the settlements of southern Greenland, before continuing on to Newfoundland. Each itinerary is tailor made so call us for a chat to start planning your trip!

©Newfoundland & Labrador Tourism

©Julia Quarry ©Tourism Nova Scotia

©Tourism BC ©Ontario Tourism

http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/canada-holidays?utm_source=IcelandBro2015


Flying to Iceland and beyondDuring recent years there has been an explosion in the number of flights operating between the British Isles and Iceland. At the time of going to press it was possible to fly there direct through four different airlines from no less than 10 airports: Heathrow; Gatwick; Luton; Bristol; Manchester; Dublin; Belfast; Glasgow and Edinburgh, with the possibility of more being added at any time.


Discover the World guarantees to offer you the lowest airfare available on the day from whatever airline or route you choose.

©RTH Sigurdsson



Flyin

g

Icelandair Wow Air EasyJet

From Heathrow services are offered twice daily year round: from Gatwick once or twice on most days depending on the season; from Manchester and Glasgow several times a week. Icelandair also operate to gateways in the US and Canada. Full details of the Economy, Economy Comfort (Premium Economy) and Saga Class (Business Class) are provided on our website.

Iceland’s, ‘low cost’ carrier operates from Gatwick once or sometimes twice a day, and from summer 2015 a service from Dublin will be added, three times a week. Also new for summer 2015 will be a service to Boston and Baltimore. Note – all fares quoted by us include a baggage allowance of 20kg per passenger.

The UK’s largest low cost carrier hardly needs any introduction! Services are offered several times a week from Gatwick, Luton, Bristol, Manchester, Belfast and Edinburgh and its quite likely more services will be added from other airports.

Discover the World offers the lowest airfares

This is our pledge to you. Fare regulations are often complex and confusing and, with the variety of services on offer, we are happy to help you through the minefield. It will often be necessary to pay in full for flights at the time of booking and many are non-refundable - some airlines allow us to hold space while other travel arrangements are firmed up. It may be possible to keep down the cost of flying by travelling outbound on one airline then returning on another. Just contact one of our travel specialists by phone or email and they will do their best to find a route and airfare which suits your travel needs and budget. And remember, when booking your flight and the rest of your holiday through Discover the World - you, your holiday and your finances are fully protected - our Discover the World 100% Guarantee on page 6 gives further details.

Services are operated by Icelandair, EasyJet and Wow, with Icelandair the only ‘full service airline’ offering the most flights to Iceland whilst the

other two airlines are ‘low cost’ operators. Remember to check our website for news on the latest services to Iceland and beyond.


©Icelandair ©WOW Air ©easyjet



Image credits:Many images in this brochure have been supplied by world-class photographer, and long-time friend of Discover the World, Ragnar TH Sigurdsson (arctic-images.com). Since 1975 Ragnar has been capturing every facet of his homeland, Iceland, and many other northern destinations, with his work acclaimed by the likes of Getty and National Geographic. His experience and passion is evident in his images, which can be found throughout our website and many of our brochures.

Air Iceland (Flugfélag Íslands)

Iceland’s largest domestic carrier operates from Reykjavík to Akureyri, Egilsstaðir and Ísafjörður, and from Akureyri to Grímsey, Vopnafjörður and Þórshöfn. Services are also offered from Reykjavík to various airports in Greenland – see Flying to Greenland.

Flying to GreenlandThere are no direct services between the UK and Greenland and for this reason we recommend a pre/post night in Reykjavík, depending on your chosen holiday. Flights to Greenland are operated by Air Iceland (a wholly owned subsidiary of Icelandair) from Reykjavík Airport to Ittoqqortoormiit (North East Greenland); Kulusuk (East Greenland); Ilulissat and Nuuk (West Greenland), and Narsarsuaq (South Greenland).

Eagle Air

Eagle has an extensive range of sightseeing flights from Reykjavík and also offers a scheduled service from the capital to the following smaller centres around Iceland: Westman Islands, Höfn, Húsavík, Bíldudalur and Gjögur.


©AndersStenbakken



Driving Distances (approx. km)

FROM/TO Akureyri Borgarnes Egilsstaðir Höfn Ísafjörður Reykjavík Selfoss Vík

Akureyri - 315 265 512 567 389 432 561

Borgarnes 315 - 580 519 384 74 117 246

Egilsstaðir 265 580 - 247 832 698 640 511

Geysir 489 174 677 439 559 115 61 166

Gullfoss 499 184 687 449 569 125 71 176

Holmavík 344 199 609 718 224 273 316 445

Húsavík 91 406 220 467 659 480 523 652

Hveragerði 419 104 653 415 487 44 13 144

Hvolsvöllur 481 166 591 353 550 106 49 80

Höfn 512 519 247 - 922 459 402 273

Ísafjörður 567 384 832 922 - 457 500 630

Keflavík 431 116 696 499 500 48 97 226

Kirkjubæjarklaustur 633 318 440 201 702 258 201 71

FROM/TO Akureyri Borgarnes Egilsstaðir Höfn Ísafjörður Reykjavík Selfoss Vík

Mývatn (north) 99 414 165 412 667 488 531 660

Neskaupstaður 336 651 71 301 904 725 694 565

Olafsfjordur 61 340 326 573 592 414 457 586

Olafsvík 416 121 681 640 443 195 239 367

RaufarHöfn 245 560 270 517 812 634 677 781

Reykjavík 389 74 698 459 457 - 57 187

Selfoss 432 117 640 402 500 57 - 129

Seyðisfjörður 292 607 27 274 859 681 667 538

Skaftafell 639 387 374 136 771 327 270 141

Skógar 529 214 543 305 598 154 97 32

Stykkishólmur 363 98 628 617 390 172 215 345

Vík 561 246 511 273 630 187 129 -

Þingvellir 410 95 675 447 479 49 45 174

Iceland Map and Driving Distances

Driving Distances (approx. km)

Road 1 or major routes

Highland tracks/F-routes (4WD only)

International airport

Domestic airport

Local ferry

Volcano

Key

ISAFJARDARDJUP

IsafjordurBolungarvik

Flateyri

Dynjandi

Latrabjarg

Raudisandur

FlateyBREIDAFJORDUR

SNAEFELLSNES PENINSULAOlafsvik

Stykkisholmur

Arnarstapi BudirSNAEFELLSJOKULL

Borgarnes

Reykholt

Hraunfossar

LANGJOKULL

Gullfoss

GeysirThingvellir

Reykjavik

Keflavik

Blue Lagoon

Grindavik Thorlakshofn

Hveragerdi

Selfoss

Fludir

Hekla

Thorsmork

Westman Islands

Skogar

VikDyrholaey

KirkjubaejarklausturMYRDALSJOKULL

LANDMANNALAUGAR

VATNAJOKULL

Skaftafell

GrimsvotnBardarbunga

Jokulsarlon

Hofn

Djupivogur

Breiddalsvik

EgilsstadirSeydisfjordur

Borgarfjordur Eystri

Vopnafjordur

Raufarhofn

AsbyrgiHusavik

Grimsey

LANGANES

Dettifoss

Askja

Godafoss

Akureyri

Olafsfjordur

Dalvik Hauganes

VarmahlidBlonduosSaudarkrokurHolmavik

DrangsnesSTRANDIR

VATSNES

DRANGAJOKULL

HORNSTRANDIR

HOFSJOKULL

NeskaupstadurEskifjordur

HvolsvollurSeljalandsfoss

FAXAFLOI

Kjolur Route

Sprengisandu

r Rou

te

LAKEMYVATNBrjanslaekur

REYDARFJORDUR

SKA

GA

FJOR

DU

R

EYJA

FJOR

DU

R

SKJA

LFAN

DI B

AY

Eyjafjallajokull

NApprox. Scale

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Iceland




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