9-Day outdoor focused tour wrapping up with a few days of ultimate relaxation

Overview: A less traditional route, this itinerary starts off in the volcanic North, before heading off on the Diamond Circle to take in the very best of northeast Iceland’s lakes, waterfalls, hot springs, fjords and glacier lagoons. You’ll then depart to see the highlights of the South Coast and the Golden Circle, before settling in for a luxurious and relaxing few days at the Blue Lagoon Retreat Hotel. Adventure and relaxation all rolled into one. Perfect!

Trip Outline:

Day 1: Arrival to Iceland. Private transfer in to Reykjavík

Day 2: Depart Reykjavík and fly to Akureyri. On arrival, explore volcanoes, waterfalls, and Lake Myvatn.

Day 3: The Diamond Circle and the highlights of North Iceland

Day 4: From North to East: Lake Myvatn, Mödrudalur Farm, Dettifoss, Eskifjördur Village

Day 5: East Fjords & Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Day 6: Vatnajökull National Park with Private Glacier Hike

Day 7: South Coast and the Golden Circle followed by a romantic getaway to the Blue Lagoon Retreat Hotel

Day 8: Free day of relaxation at the Blue Lagoon Retreat Hotel.

Day 9: Departure from Iceland. Safe travels!

DAY 1: Arrival to Iceland. Private transfer in to Reykjavík

You will arrive at KEF airport. When you exit the customs and head into the general waiting area, your driver will have your name up for show. Private transfer from KEF international airport to Reykjavik Capital. Your trip will start by travelling through the moonlike landscape on the Reykjanes Peninsula. You will soon get a feeling of what Iceland stands for, travelling through endless lava fields and geothermal areas in all volcanic surroundings, and that during the beginning of summer. When at your accommodation,  you will have the opportunity to stretch out a little and in good time get to know our small city a little.

Included:


• Private transfer from KEF international airport to Reykjavík City

• Accommodation in Alda hotel in Reykjavík, with breakfast.

DAY 2. Depart Reykjavík and fly to Akureyri. On arrival, explore volcanoes, waterfalls, and Lake Myvatn.

Pick up at Alda hotel at 10.00 a.m. Transfer to Reykjavík domestic airport.

Having enjoyed Reykjavík City, your first day of your private tour, will start with a domestic flight at 11.05 from Reykjavík airport to the capital of the north; Akureyri. When arriving in Akureyri, at 11.55 a.m. your private guide will meet you by the baggage claim. Depending on the weather, a short stroll in the center of Akureyri is appropriate. We will not spend to much time in Akureyri, because we are headed into the highlands, for visiting the epic Aldeyjarfoss waterfall. Aldeyjarfoss is one the most beautiful waterfalls on the island, with the glacier river in Skjálfandafljót running through it. The waterfall is framed with long, natural basaltic columns. It is located off the beaten track in the moon like highlands of in the uppermost regions of the Bárdardalur valley, on the Sprengisandur highland route. Returning from the highlands another mighty waterfall can´t be ignored, the waterfall of the Gods; Goðafoss. We will end the day by Lake Mývatn where we will spend the next two nights in volcanic wonderland. To complete the day after enjoying Lake Mývatn and its magical wonders we will have the option of relaxing in the geothermal nature baths Jarðböðin. Booked at 5.30 p.m. Accommodation in the beautiful VOGAFJOS hotel.

GOÐAFOSS

Goðafoss waterfall is located in the river Skjálfandafljót in north Iceland, the fourth largest river in Iceland. It is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the country, falling from a height of 12 meters (39 feet) over a width of 30 meters (98 feet).The name Goðafoss means either waterfall of the gods or waterfall of the 'goði' (i.e. priest/ chieftain). The reason for this is its fascinating history. When Iceland was first settled in the 9th and 10th Centuries, the vast majority (who were not slaves, at least) were Norwegians who followed the Old Norse religion, worshipping deities like Thor, Odin, Loki and Freya. However, after the Commonwealth was established in 930 AD, pressure to convert began to push from Christianizing Europe.

By 1000 AD, it seemed that Norway would almost certainly invade if the country were to stand by their pagan beliefs. The issue was thus discussed at Þingvellir, where the parliament met once a year. The law-speaker at the time, the Ásatrú priest (or goði) Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði, was given the responsibility to make the decision. It is said he lay under a fur blanket for a day and a night in silence, praying to his Old Gods for the right decision. Eventually, he emerged and said, for the good of the people, Christianity would be the official religion, but pagans could practice in private. To symbolize his decision, he returned to his home in north Iceland and threw idols of the Old Gods into a beautiful waterfall. Since then, it would be known as Goðafoss.

NÁMASKARÐ

Námaskarð, a geothermal valley, is widely compared to the landscape of Planet Mars thanks to its vermillion color sands and rocky craters, an otherworldly vista made all the more impressive with billowing pillars of steam and gurgling mud cauldrons. Wooden walkways make it simple to get a close-up look of this bubbling, hissing energy in action. 

LAKE MÝVATN:

Mývatn offers a unique natural environment. With large contrasts and short distances, you can experience the most and the best that Iceland has to offer. Large open spaces with roads and walkways lead travelers to unworldly locations, where volcanic eruptions have played a crucial role in the formation of the landscape. Whether the plan is to enjoy the landscape, examine unique natural phenomena or take a closer look at the plant and birdlife, Mývatn has it all. Furthermore, the area offers a variety of services in accommodation, food, and entertainment, based on years of experience and knowledge. Mývatn attracts huge numbers of travelers in the summer, but many believe the lake and its surroundings to be no less impressive in the wintertime. Mývatn is the 4th largest lake in Iceland, 37 km2 in area. Its shores are indented with many coves and inlets and its surface is dotted with around 50 small islets and skerries. Midges (Chironomidae) are abundant, and the ubiquitous swarms of these tiny flies give the lake its name.

The lake itself is very shallow, and the rays of the sun reach the lakebed everywhere. The ecology of the lake area is extremely diverse and interesting; one important characteristic of Mývatn is the prolific growth and abundance of freshwater seaweed. On the bed of the lake there are great quantities of diatoms, while nearer the surface, Mývatn's famous arctic char weave their way between aquatic plants and little islets topped with fertile vegetation. On and around the lake there is a teeming and varied birdlife and Mývatn is the habitat of many kinds of lake and marsh birds. However, much of Mývatn's fame can be attributed to the fact that during summer, there is a greater variety of duck species gathered on and around the lake than anywhere else in the world. Mývatn is a legally protected conservation area and appears on the register of internationally important wetlands, along with the Laxá river which flows out of the lake.

Included:

• Transfer from Alda hotel to Reykjavík domestic airport at 10 a.m.

• Domestic flight at 11.05 a.m.

• Private guided day tour in a private modified 4x4 vehicle.

• Accommodation at VOGAFJÓS for two nights, with breakfast. Double deluxe room.

• Entrance to Jarðböðin nature baths at 5.30 p.m.

DAY 3. The Diamond Circle and the highlights of North Iceland

After a nice quality breakfast in the north you will start your day driving to Dettifoss waterfall. It is the most powerful waterfall on the island located in a harsh natural environment of the north. Only 30 minutues away is Ásbyrgi Glacier Canyon. Depending on weather conditions and time of travel, one can easily spend from 1-3 hours in that area. As you come back to your vehicle, I highly recommend a nice lunch in Húsavík village before driving back to the Lake Mývatn area. You control the pace and focus of the tour according to your interests. The Diamond Circle is an area you will not forget. We visit the highlights of North Iceland, and witness Nature’s most creative scenery. Among highlights are the catastrophic area around Lake Mývatn, powerful glacial rivers, beautiful canyons and valleys and great waterfalls.

Dettifoss (can also be visited the next day of travel)

Dettifoss waterfall, found in Vatnajökull National Park, is arguably Europe’s most powerful waterfall, pumping 96,500 gallons of water over its lip every second (—an incredible 193 m³/s flow rate). The waterfall is 100 meters in width and cascades 45 meters (150 ft) into the stunning Jökulsárgljúfur canyon, creating a plume of mist so great that, on clear days, is visible from several miles away.

Ásbyrgi:

Ásbyrgi (Shelter of the Gods) is one of the wonders of nature, a well forested horse-shoe shaped canyon in Oxarfjordur. Viking settlers believed to be a hoof-print formed by Sleipnir, Odin’s eight-legged flying horse from Norse mythology. Geologists believe that Asbyrgi was formed as the result of a catastrophic flood from the nearby Jokulsa glacial river. Some people say that it is the capital of the Hidden People in Iceland. Asbyrgi is a part of Jökulsárgljúfur canyon, within the Vatnajökull National Park. The Jökulsárgljúfur site of the National Park reaches from highway 85, by Ásbyrgi south to Dettifoss, covering an area of 120 km2. Informative visitor's center, shop, golf course and camping site are located by Ásbyrgi. Many hiking tracks are in the vicinity of Ásbyrgi. Ásbyrgi canyon is part of the Diamond Circle explore the Diamond Circle

Húsavík

Húsavík is the oldest settlement in Iceland, besides being the largest town in Þingeyjarsýsla district and the service center for the surrounding area. The town is known for whale watching tours in Skjálfandi Bay and is often referred to as the Whale Capital of Iceland. Up to 23 species of whale, including the Blue Whale, as well as large colonies of puffins can be found in or around the bay. One can experience the gigantic life-size of whales in the local Whale Museum where, amongst others, a 22m long skeleton of a Blue Whale is on display. There are several whale watching companies to choose from in Húsavík and sailing from there in pursuit of these wonderful creatures is an experience no one should miss and will certainly never be forgotten.

Húsavík is linked with Eurovision. The film Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire and Saga is based on two characters Lars Erickssong played by Will Ferrell and Sigrit Ericksdottir played by Rachel McAdams. Húsavík is the hometown of the duo and the title song is also named Húsavík. It's likely you will see some locals from the movie if you visit Húsavík. If you have limited time we recommend taking the Fire and Saga Tour.

The Museum House at Húsavík, as the inhabitants of the district call their cultural center, houses part of the South Þingeyjarsýsla District Museum, a maritime museum, natural history museum, folk museum, district archives, photograph archives, and an art gallery.

Cultural life in and around the town is flourishing, the active and enthusiastic drama society being among the best amateur theatre groups in Iceland. There are a number of choirs and instrumental groups playing an active role in the field of music.

Included:

• Private guided day tour in a private modified 4x4 vehicle.

• Accommodation VOGAFJÓS hotel, with breakfast

• Entrance to Jarðböðin nature baths at 4.30 p.m.

DAY 4. From North to East: Lake Myvatn, Mödrudalur Farm, Dettifoss, Eskifjördur Village

It is always a little bit difficult leaving the Volcanic Wonderland area of Lake Mývatn, but heading east new natural wonders awaits, with their own special nature and wildlife. On our way driving from the north over the harsh mountain plateaus, we will visit Dettifoss waterfall. Dettifoss is the most powerful waterfall in Europe, with its thundering power and epic location it should be the highlight of the day. In travelling through the harsh highlands of the North, a lunch in the isolated farm Möðrudalur is highly recommended. After a local lunch the next destination comes highly recommended. It is the phenomenal Stuðlagil glacier canyon. There are two options how one can get to the canyon. From the farm Grund there is approx. 250 meters walk to the viewpoint where you can look down on the diverse dark colored columns and the contrast with the clear blue color of the river. You can also park your car on the parking lot at the farm Klaustursel. The hike is approx. 5 kilometers one way, but this way takes you closer to the canyon itself.

To many the East fjords are a favorite with their powerful nature, isolated villages, and locals all with their long history and traditions from the begin of settlement. Eskifjörður is the perfect place to end the day, at the private lodges of Mjoeyri. Located down by the ocean with amazing ocean and mountain views.

DETTIFOSS (if not covered the day before)

Dettifoss waterfall, found in Vatnajökull National Park, is arguably Europe’s most powerful waterfall, pumping 96,500 gallons of water over its lip every second (—an incredible 193 m³/s flow rate). The waterfall is 100 meters in width and cascades 45 meters (150 ft) into the stunning Jökulsárgljúfur canyon, creating a plume of mist so great that, on clear days, is visible from several miles away. 

MÖÐRUDALUR FARM:

Right in the middle of "nowhere" in the wilderness of Iceland, you will find the highest inhabited farm in Iceland Möðrudalur á Fjöllum - Möðrudalur in Öræfi at 469 meters (1,539 ft) above sea level. It is like entering an oasis after having driven through the rugged wilderness of Iceland.

There has been a farm in Möðrudalur since the settlement of Iceland and one of the leading farms of Iceland was located here in the olden times. Some ancient farm-ruins have been discovered north of the farm in Möðrudalur, which have been declared as protected. The farmland here at Möðrudalur is one of the most extensive in the country. Möðrudalur, which is located north of Vatnajökull glacier, is mentioned in the Sagas, f.ex. in the Saga of Grettir The Strong  (ca 996 - ca 1040). Grettir was a belligerent Viking, who was an outlaw in Iceland for almost 20 years. He lived in several locations around Iceland during his outlawry and for one summer he stayed outside on Möðrudalsheiði heath and in other places in the vicinity.

Grettir the Strong would never have been able to survive on Möðrudalsheiði heath in wintertime as it gets very cold so high up in the highlands of Iceland. The lowest temperature recorded in Iceland, -38 degrees C (-36.4 degrees F) was recorded in Möðrudalur, and at the same time at Grímsstaðir á Fjöllum close by, on the 21st of January 1918, but that winter was so cold in Iceland that it has gone down in history as Frostaveturinn mikli or the Winter of the Great Frost.

Möðrudalur was once on the ring-road 1, but when the ring-road was moved north of Möðrudalur in 2001, Möðrudalur was literally cut off. The farmers were thinking of closing down and moving away.  Vilhjálmur Vernharðsson, the son of the owners of the farm, who by now was living in Reykjavík, decided on building up his birthplace. Vilhjálmur's ancestors had lived on Möðrudalur farm since 1875 and Vilhjálmur couldn't bear the thought of his family's farm being abandoned.  

STUÐLAGIL CANYON.

In the valley Jökuldalur (Glacier Valley) in Austurland - East Iceland there is a marvelous natural site that almost nobody knew about until recently. For a long time, it was hidden underwater or until the hydroelectric plant Kárahnjúkavirkjun was built and the water flow in the glacier river Jökulsá á Dal, a.k.a. Jökla, was remarkably reduced. This marvel is the part of Jökla's canyon, which is called Stuðlagil Canyon. Stuðlagil Canyon has one of the most significant and most beautiful basalt columns formations in Iceland.

Included:

• Private guided day tour in a private modified 4x4 vehicle.

• Accommodation in Eskifjörður village-Mjóeyri private lodges with breakfast.

  
  

DAY 5: East Fjords & Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Driving the isolated East fjords, we will visit some small, isolated fishing villages and drive along the jagged mountain peaks like Vestra Horn and other that seem to be collapsing into the ocean in every turn. Hopefully we will get the opportunity to see wildlife like reindeers and seals during our drive to the glacier lagoon Jökulsárlón. The glacier lagoon, the black sand Diamond beach and its surroundings should be the highlight of the day, being an absolute natural wonder in any weather. Accommodation at Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon close to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.

Vestrahorn mountain;

Vestrahorn, Vesturhorn, and Stokksnes are all names for the same place. The area is approximately a ten-minute drive away from Höfn. The Horn area below Vestrahorn, a 454-meter high mountain. It is an interesting geological site composed of un-stratified plutonic rock, mostly gabbro but with some granophyre. East of the mountain is a strange-shaped outcrop called Brunnhorn that stretches out to sea. One of the first settlement farms in Iceland was Horn, Built by Hrollaugur, son of Rögnvaldur Earl of Møre in Norway. Hornafjörður Municipality and several natural sites are named after the settlement farm. In the Second World War, the Horn area became a base for the British army and later a NATO radar station was set up at Stokksnes, south of Horn. At Stokksnes you can feel the power of the Atlantic Ocean as the waves hit the rocky shore with massive force. Vestrahorn is a perfect place for photography or for quiet contemplation while enjoying the vast beauty of this unspoiled natural site. The shore features stunning lava dunes, that are constantly being shaped by the natural forces of water and wind. Down towards the sea, it is possible to get perfect reflections in the wet sand. Seals also tend to hang out on the stretch of sand, so if you’re lucky you can catch a picture of a lazing seal as well. Please note that the beach at Stokksnes is private and has a small entrance fee. It is a popular destination so be prepared for other tourists and photographers.

Höfn í Hornafirði-Lunch recommended;

Höfn is an Icelandic fishing town of just over two thousand people in southeast Iceland. It is the most significant settlement on Route 1 between the village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur in the south and Egilsstaðir in the east.

Höfn means ‘harbour,’ as the town is located in one of the few natural harbours of Iceland’s south coast; unlike the rest of the country, this stretch is beachy and flat, and thus there are hardly any small coastal villages when compared to places such as the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.The town is right at the tip of its own peninsula, which is easy to reach throughout the year. It sits at the base of Route 99, which detours off from Route 1. It is surrounded on three sides by the ocean, which has been known to freeze over in extreme conditions. The town can also be reached by plane in good weather, as it is one of the few locations in the country with a domestic airport. Like many of Iceland’s small, coastal towns, Höfn has a surprising amount of culture. Its cuisine is particularly notable, with the celebration of it coming to a head at the annual Lobster Festival, held every July. This comes as little surprise, considering the town’s long history as an important fishing port.

Diamond Beach

Just a short walk from the incredible glacier lagoon, Jökulsárlón, is the Diamond Beach. Here, many of the icebergs that have broken free from the lagoon wash up on their way to the ocean, and form sculptures so beautiful that they seem to be carved and polished by a divine hand. It is an incredible location for photo opportunities. The beach is also a very popular seal watching site, and due to the number of seals in the area, the Diamond Beach is also one of the best locations in Iceland for spotting orcas from the shore. Another notable animal in the area is the Arctic tern, which nests in vast numbers between the lagoon and beach; just be careful to keep a respectful distance, as they are notorious for the fierceness with which they protect their eggs.

Jökulsárlón

Jökulsárlón, also known as the glacier lagoon, is one of the most awe-inspiring and popular places in Iceland. Huge icebergs break from glacier Breiðamerkurjökull year-round, filling the lagoon as they serenely make their way to the ocean. As diverse as they are beautiful, the bergs can be the powder white of snow, an almost unreal shade of electric blue, or veined with the black ash of centuries-old eruptions. Some tower from the water, taller than a two-story building. Many make a comfy resting place for the seals who call the lagoon and beach home. Watching the ice from the shore of Jökulsárlón, listening to the almost organic sound as it breaks apart, is mesmerizing in a way that must be experienced to be truly felt. For an even more intimate experience, there are amphibian and zodiac boat tours which run several times a day throughout summer, and get you close enough to be able to taste the ice. Its beauty has not gone unnoticed by the film industry; it is possible to find the shooting locations of ‘A View to a Kill’, ‘Die Another Day’, ‘Lara Croft: Tomb Raider’ and ‘Batman Begins’ all nearby. The lagoon is located right off of Route 1, and a visit to it should never exclude a trip down to the Diamond Beach.

Included:

• 
Private guided day tour in a private modified 4x4 vehicle.

• Accommodation in Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon, with breakfast.

DAY 6. Vatnajökull National Park with Private Glacier Hike

After a high-quality breakfast, we will spend the day travelling in and around Vatnajökull National Park. You'll get to know glaciers inside and out as towering over the park is Vatnajökull, Europe's largest glacier.

There are countless natural wonders to see here, and you'll start with a glacier hike on Svínafellsjökull/Falljökull glacier where you'll trek across the white expanse, past deep crevasses, and strange ice sculptures.

After about three hours of outdoor activities, you'll get some hot beverages for the road. You'll then head for Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. There, icebergs that have broken off a nearby glacier float peacefully on the serene lake. As we leave the National Park, we will spend the rest of the day driving along the south coast, driving through black sand deserts, crossing glacier rivers and from one lava field to the next.

GLACIER HIKE:

Your first official activity of the day is the amazing glacier hike on Falljökull glacier. This glacier hike is perfect for those with limited time or looking to have an introductory glacier tour in Iceland. You will start with a short drive from our meeting point to Falljökull glacier, which is a neighboring outlet glacier descending from the vast Vatnajökull ice cap
. After a quick walk to the edge of the glacier you will learn to put on crampons and have a small safety briefing. With an ice axe in hand, you will then embark for an hour on a guided excursion of the glacier. Your guide will be pointing out some of the fascinating features of the ice whilst on the hike and teaching you about some of the local geography and history. The glacier surface and colors change a lot depending on the time of year, but summer is the perfect time to get up on the ice to explore and enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the valley

Skaftafell National Park

Skaftafell, once a National Park in its own right and now part of the greater Vatnajökull National Park, is a beautiful oasis of trees, waterfalls, glacier tongues and lava fields. For hikers, it is a paradise. There is a wealth of short walks to stunning locations, such as to the waterfall Svartifoss, which falls from a dramatic array of hexagonal lava columns, or the glacier Skaftafelljöjull, which visitors can take a guided hike upon. Those who seek a longer visit can take the trails to Morsárdalur valley and Kristínartindar mountain, and the very ambitious can use Skaftafell as a basecamp from which to climb Iceland ‘s highest mountain peak, Hvannadalshnjúkur. Camping is available here, with showers and a well-equipped visitor's center, so that visitors can truly make the most of this jewel in Iceland’s crown.

Eldhraun:

The vast Eldhraun lava field (“Fire Lava“), in the south of the Icelandic highlands, was created in one of the greatest eruptions in recorded history and is of the largest of its kind in the world. The Lakagigar craters were also created during this eruption.This eruption lasted from 1783 to 1784 and is known as the Skaftáreldar (The Skaftá River Fires). This was a cataclysmic event for Iceland and beyond. In Iceland, it lead to disease, crop failure and disasters. The eruption affected Europe as well. In Great Britain, that summer is known as the Sand-Summer in Great Britain due to the fallout of ash and it is believed that the airborne haze and blocking of sunlight may have contributed to the French Revolution. Despite the abysmal effect the eruption had, this lava field of 565 km2 is today one of the most stunningly attractive ones in Iceland.The area features one of the most magnificent lava tube systems in the country, located north of the Lake Laufbalavatn. More than 200 caves have been found there, extending for more than five kilometers and 14 cu. Meters.

Fjaðrárgljúfur:

Fjaðrárgljúfur is a magnificent and massive canyon, about 100 meters deep and about two kilometers long. The canyon has sheer walls and is somewhat serpentine and narrow. The bedrock in Fjaðrárgljúfur is mostly palagonite from cold periods of the Ice Age and is thought to be about two million years old. The river Fjaðrá has its source in the mountain Geirlandshraun and falls off the heath edge in this stunning canyon until it makes it down into Skaftá river. Fjaðrá has changed a lot in the course of time. Today Fjaðrá is often rather low in water and therefore hikers can safely choose to walk inside the canyon. However, wading is necessary often. Deep in the canyon there are waterfalls so one needs to walk the same way back. Most people choose to walk along a walking path up on the canyon's edge while simultaneously enjoying the view above the canyon.

It is believed that Fjaðrárgljúfur formed at the end of the last Ice Age, about nine thousand years ago. When the glacier retreated, a lake formed in the valley behind a hard resistant rock. The run-off from the lake flowed to where Fjaðrárgljúfur is today. Glacial rivers from the glacier's edge carried a lot of sediment into the lake and the river which ran from it dug itself down into the rock and down onto the palagonite in front of it. Because the cascade has been so large, it was powerful in digging out the canyon. Eventually the lake filled with sediments and the river's strength dwindled. When the lake filled up completely, the river began to dig itself into the sediment layers which it had previously left in the valley. Fluvial terraces on both sides in the valley give an indication about the original height and location of the lake while a deep channel in the palagonite serves as a silent reminder to the power of nature. 

Including:

• Private guided day tour in a private modified 4x4 vehicle.

• Private Glacier Hike with Iceland Untouched.

• Accommodation in Hrífunes Guesthouse, with breakfast. Best local homemade cusine on the island.

DAY 7. South Coast and the Golden Circle followed by a romantic getaway to the Blue Lagoon Retreat Hotel

After a nice local breakfast at the guesthouse, you will start by driving down to route 1, heading for Vík village. On your way you will pass Ingólfshöfði cape. If interested then if you drive towards Ingólfshöfði, you can enter an ancient viking cave, that now goes by the name of the Yoda Cave.(impact of tourism). As you arrive to Vík village, I highly recommend having lunch in the village and walking down to the black sand beach with beautiful ocean views.Your first scheduled activity of the day is the beautiful  horseback riding tour from Vík village, along the black sand beach with phenomenal ocean views.  After spending time out doors we should get a hot beverage for the road, as we will sadly need to leave and drive back to Reykjavík Capital, along the ancient seabed of Iceland, with our final destination set for Reykjavík. You will surely make some pleasant stops on the way that were not covered during the drive to Vatnajökull National Park. The higlights of the day will be the black sand beach, Reynisfjara beach,  epic waterfalls and other locations that night have been saved for returning to the capital. Depending on time of travel and weather conditions, we have options to visit locations that are a part of the Golden Circle Route. Thingvellir National Park comes highly recommended.

Reynisfjara

Reynisfjara is a black pebble beach near Vik, and part of the coastline that was chosen in 1991 by Islands Magazine as one of the ten most beautiful non-tropical beaches in the world. It is a popular stop on the south coast due to the surrounding geology. The beach sits in the shadow of Hálsanef, a magnificent cliff face of basalt columns which resembles a step pyramid, and out to sea, one can spot the 66 meters (217 ft) tall Reynisdrangar basalt stacks. The area is also popular amongst bird watchers; visitors can spot puffins, fulmars, Arctic tern and guillemots which nest in the area. As beautiful as the beach is do not go near the water. Sneaker waves can quickly pull people out to sea, and the water is extremely cold. Even in the best of weather, the waves can push forcefully high upon the land and have pulled people out to sea who were merely taking a walk too close to the water. Take care, and never leave children to play on this beach.

Seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss in South Iceland is one of the most iconic waterfalls in the country. Visible from Route 1, it is an impressive 63 metres (207 ft) tall waterfall, and though its cascade is narrow, a large cavern and path behind it mean that it can be walked all the way around. Looking out from behind the waterfall, across green fields to the ocean, gives visitors a unique perspective that will stay with them for life. Its location means that it makes a great stop for visitors travelling along the south coast.

Skógafoss

Skógafoss waterfall is located on the Skógá river along Iceland's southern coast, clearly visible from Route 1 and an excellent place to stop and stretch the legs while travelling. It is one of the biggest waterfalls in the country, a width of 25 meters (82 ft) and a drop of 60 meters (200 ft); even from a distance, its power seems almighty. Due to the amount of spray the waterfall consistently produces, a single or double rainbow is often visible on sunny days. Visitors can see this waterfall from below and take a staircase up beside the falls for a different perspective. According to legend, the first Viking settler in the area, Þrasi Þórólfsson, buried a treasure in a cave behind the waterfall. The legend says that locals found the chest years later but were only able to grasp the ring on the side of the chest before it broke away and the treasure disappeared again. The ring was given to the local church and can now be seen at Skógar’s folk museum nearby. There is a restaurant and hotel right beside the waterfall.

Tomato Farm

The perfect destination for a lunch in the Icelandic country-side is the Friðheimar Tomato farm. In Friðheimar everything is about the organic tomatoes. They offer tomato soup with homemade bread, tomato pizza, tomato coffee, tomato icecream…tomato everything.

Þingvellir National Park

Þingvellir (often anglicized to Thingvellir) is without question the most historically significant site in Iceland and is beloved by visitors and locals alike. The Icelandic parliament was founded here by the Vikings in 930 AD and remained until 1798, before moving to Reykjavik; this makes Iceland the world’s longest running ongoing democracy, and home to the oldest representative parliamentary system. It is the site of many battles and duels, featured in the sagas and folklore; the location of many witch trials; and the place where almost all of Iceland’s most significant moments in history occurred. It was here that Iceland declared its conversion to Christianity, its independence from Denmark, and elected its first President. It was made a national park in 1928, and in 2004, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Besides its history as a birthplace of democracy, Þingvellir is also a site of incredible geological features. It does not exist on either the Eurasian or North American continents, but in the valley between the two, known as the North Atlantic Dorsal Rift. The edges of both tectonic plates are clearly visible within the park, and the magnificent gorge Almannagjá, which marks the eastern boundary of the North American plate, can be walked through to reach the waterfall Öxarárfoss. It is surrounded by a beautiful mountain range and sits to the north of Iceland’s largest natural lake, the stunning Þingvallavatn. Popular HBO series Game of Thrones has filmed here to take advantage of these beautiful surroundings.

Included:

• Private guided day tour in a private modified 4x4 vehicle.

• Accommodation at The Blue Lagoon Retreat Hotel for 2 nights.

Blue Lagoon Retreat Hotel Romantic Getaway package:

• Accommodations at the Retreat for two nights​

• Complimentary daily breakfast 

• Unlimited use of the Retreat Spa, the Retreat Lagoon, and the Blue Lagoon​

• Two in-water massages (60-minutes) ​

• Four-course dinner for two at Lava Restaurant* 

• Seven-course tasting menu for two at Michelin-rated Moss Restaurant*

• ​Two small bottles of Champagne and strawberries as a welcome gift​​

DAY 8: Free day of relaxation at the Blue Lagoon Retreat Hotel.

This day is meant to be spent in relaxation. You have several geothermal pool options while staying on location. The private Retreat Blue Lagoon entrance comes highly recoomended. Same applies for reservations to the Moss restaurant.

Included:

Blue Lagoon Retreat Hotel Romantic Getaway package:

• Accommodations at the Retreat for two nights​

• Complimentary daily breakfast 

• Unlimited use of the Retreat Spa, the Retreat Lagoon, and the Blue Lagoon​

• Two in-water massages (60-minutes) ​

• Four-course dinner for two at Lava Restaurant* 

• Seven-course tasting menu for two at Michelin-rated Moss Restaurant*

• ​Two small bottles of Champagne and strawberries as a welcome gift​​

DAY 9. Departure from Iceland

You will have a private transfer from The Retreat hotel at 7.15 a.m. to KEF international airport.

Included:

• Private transfer from Retreat Hotel to KEF international airport.