Day 1 - Reykjavík

Reykjavík, Iceland: Sprawling Reykjavík, the nation's nerve centre and government seat, is home to half the island's population. Situated in a bay overlooked by the majestic Mt. Esja, Reykjavík offers a colourful panorama with its concrete houses adorned in light colours and capped with vibrant red, blue, and green roofs. The city stands in stark contrast to the almost treeless countryside by showcasing tall native birches, rowans, and willows, as well as imported aspens, pines, and spruces. Interestingly, Reykjavík's name comes from the Icelandic words for smoke, reykur, and bay, vík. Founded in AD 874 by the Norseman Ingólfur Arnarson, who glimpsed Iceland arising from the misty sea, Reykjavík is now largely heated by geothermal springs, significantly reducing air pollution. A practical option for exploring the city is the Reykjavík City Card, offering unlimited bus use and access to pools, the Family Park and Zoo, and city museums.

Day 2 - Dynjandi Waterfalls

Dynjandi Waterfalls, Iceland: Known for its breathtaking waterfalls, Iceland's iconic Dynjandi waterfall in the Westfjords is a true spectacle. With cascading water roughly 100 feet wide at its summit, it majestically descends about 330 feet into the fjord below. Aptly named "the thundering one," Dynjandi is revered for its vast size, thunderous roar, and the sheer force of its descent, often compared to a 'Bridal Veil' as the water elegantly disperses over the rocks.

Day 3 - Isafjørdur

Isafjørdur, Iceland: Flanked by two colossal terraces of sheer rock, the town of Isafjørdur stands boldly against the vast black fjord waters. Despite its remote location and compact size, the town bursts with life and modernity, boasting a variety of charming cafes and delightful restaurants sure to impress visitors. Perfectly positioned for adventure, Isafjørdur serves as a gateway to the phenomenal Icelandic wilderness, offering skiing, hiking, and water sports as popular activities for visitors.

Day 4 - Grímsey Island

Grímsey Island, Iceland: Grímsey Island, located in the Arctic Circle, is known for its stunning seabird colonies, including puffins, and serves as an ideal spot for birdwatching and experiencing endless summer days.

Day 4 - Hrisey

Hrisey, Iceland: Nestled in Eyjafjörður fjord, Hrisey is a tranquil island renowned for its lush landscapes and abundant birdlife. Its peaceful setting offers visitors a chance to explore nature trails and experience Iceland's serene natural beauty.

Day 5 - Husavik

Husavik, Iceland: Perched beneath Húsavíkurfjall Mountain, the charming town of Húsavík offers an ideal setting for explorations in the natural world. Lake Botnsvatn nearby is perfect for leisurely hikes and is surrounded by thriving flora and avifauna, with an abundance of small trout for keen anglers. The bustling harbour, once home to a robust fishing fleet, now revolves around the popular whale watching industry that began in 1995. Húsavík also proudly hosts a captivating Whale Museum. As Iceland's oldest settlement, the town's origin dates back to Swedish explorer Gardar Svavarsson's winter stay in 870 AD.

Day 8 - Bodø

Bodø, Norway: Bodø, Nordland's capital, provides a fascinating glimpse into Norway's military history with a vibrant civil life. Previously a key NATO base during the Cold War, Bodø now hosts the Norwegian Aviation Museum, home to unique exhibits such as a U-2 spy plane and a Spitfire. The city is also renowned for hosting the world's strongest maelstrom, Saltstraumen.

Day 9 - Glomfjord

Glomfjord, Norway: Glomfjord is a picturesque fjord in Norway, surrounded by lush landscapes and steep mountains, offering tranquil beauty and scenic vistas ideal for exploration and photography.

Day 10 - Reine

Reine, Lofoten Archipelago, Norway: Surrounded by a dramatic landscape of jagged peaks, the picturesque village of Reine within the Lofoten Archipelago is a stunning site of natural grandeur. The fjords here, many of which are UNESCO-listed, offer an unparalleled glimpse into the area's pristine beauty. A perfect base for hiking, whale watching, and birdwatching, Reine enchants with its serene blue waters and vibrant fishermen’s cottages.

Day 11 - Trollfjord

Trollfjord, Norway: Known for its dramatic and narrow passage, Trollfjord offers breathtaking scenery as it slices through the mountains. Its steep cliffs create an awe-inspiring backdrop perfect for nature lovers and those keen on witnessing Norway's raw beauty.

Day 11 - Svolvær

Svolvær, Norway: As the principal town of the Lofoten Islands, Svolvær offers a rich blend of cultural history and stunning natural surroundings. Its vibrant arts scene, delicious seafood, and majestic landscapes, coupled with opportunities for outdoor activities, make it an enticing destination.

Day 12 - Tromsø

Tromsø, Norway: Located on Tromsø Island, this vibrant Norwegian municipality is celebrated for its unique cultural blend and Arctic allure. Often termed the 'Gateway to the Arctic,' Tromsø boasts a profound Arctic exploration history, vividly remembered in its Polar Museum and the preservation of Sami culture in local museums. Characterised by a juxtaposition of historical wooden buildings and modern architecture like the striking Arctic Cathedral, Tromsø provides visitors splendid views from Mount Storsteinen accessible by cable car.