Icelandic Wonders Explored: The Unforgettable 8-Day Expedition

Day 1 - Reykjavík

Reykjavík, Iceland: Sprawling Reykjavík, the nation's nerve centre and government seat, is home to half the island's population. Nestled by a bay overlooked by the proud Mt. Esja, Reykjavík presents a colourful sight with its concrete houses painted in light hues and topped by vibrant red, blue, and green roofs. In stark contrast to the almost treeless countryside, Reykjavík benefits from an abundance of tall, native birches, rowans, and willows, alongside imported aspen, pines, and spruces. The city's name derives from the Icelandic words for smoke, 'reykur', and bay, 'vík', referencing Norseman Ingólfur Arnarson's discovery of the area in AD 874. Today, most houses in Reykjavík flaunt natural heating courtesy of nearby hot springs, which eliminate air pollution albeit leaving a sulphurous tinge in the water. Prices match major European cities, making a Reykjavík City Card a practical option. Available at the Tourist Information Centre or the Reykjavík Youth Hostel, these cards provide unlimited bus usage and entry to several attractions like the city's pools, museums, and the Family Park and Zoo. Even without the card, purchasing admission to one city art museum grants free same-day entry to the others.

Day 2 - Westfjords

Westfjords, Iceland: The Westfjords region, known for its dramatic coastline, offers a serene escape with its majestic fjords cutting deep into steep cliffs. This remote area houses quaint fishing villages and diverse wildlife, including puffins and seals. Travellers can immerse themselves in the enchanting landscapes, explore hidden coves, or take a leisurely hike along the rugged terrain.

Day 3 - Siglufjørdur - høfn

Siglufjørdur - Høfn, Iceland: Situated in a narrow fjord and surrounded by towering mountains, Siglufjørdur was once the thriving heart of Iceland's herring industry. Today, it charms visitors with its echo of past glories preserved at the Herring Era Museum. Høfn, a quaint harbour town, serves as the ideal gateway for embarking on awe-inspiring glacier adventures, with Vatnajökull National Park just a stone's throw away.

Day 4 - Husavik

Husavik, Iceland: The town of Húsavík lies beneath Húsavíkurfjall mountain on the eastern shore of Skjálfandi Bay. Surrounded by rich vegetation and teeming with birdlife, the nearby Lake Botnsvatn is a favoured spot for picnics and hikes. The harbour, once buzzing with a fishing fleet, now captivates with its world-renowned whale watching tours, offering a glimpse of these majestic creatures. Húsavík also boasts a fascinating whale museum by the harbour and is considered Iceland's oldest settlement, with stories tracing back to the winter spent by Swedish explorer Gardar Svavarsson in 870 AD.

Day 5 - Borgarfjørdur Eystri

Borgarfjørdur Eystri, Iceland: Nestled in a remote fjord, Borgarfjørdur Eystri is renowned for its stunning landscapes and vibrant birdlife, including puffins during the summer months. The area is a haven for hikers, offering trails that lead through rolling hills and colourful rhyolite mountains. Its folklore heritage and charming local culture provide a unique glimpse into Icelandic traditions.

Day 6 - Djúpivogur

Djúpivogur, Iceland: Djúpivogur may be enveloped by pulse-raising volcanic scenery and extraordinary wildlife, set against a dramatic fjord, but it has embraced the philosophy of slow living as a 'Cittaslow' or Slow City. Visitors are encouraged to take a leisurely approach to exploration, enjoying the area's natural beauty, rich folklore, and delicious local cuisine as they savour the tranquillity of this unique location.

Day 7 - Heimaey Island

Heimaey Island, Iceland: Strolling through Heimaey’s idyllic streets of white wooden houses, it's hard to imagine that a cataclysmic volcanic eruption once threatened this island. Yet, the community's perseverance in stopping the lava's advance saved their fishing industry and preserved the harbour. Today, it offers breathtaking views of towering volcanic rock formations rising from the ocean and the chance to reflect on the resilience of this island community.

Day 8 - Reykjavík

Reykjavík, Iceland: Once more, Reykjavík enchants with its vibrant cultural scene and natural beauty framed by Mt. Esja's ever-changing hues. The city's geothermal energy keeps it smoke-free and eco-friendly, and the Reykjavík City Card offers a seamless way to explore with its unlimited transport and attraction entry. Whether revisiting the captivating museums or simply wandering through the picturesque streets, Reykjavík provides a fitting conclusion to an unforgettable expedition holiday in Iceland.