Elves, Sagas and Volcanoes of Iceland

45 minutes after touching down at Keflavík International Airport, located among lava rocks, moss and mountains, you find yourself in Reykjavik, a charming and vibrant town with lots of restaurants, museums and shops on narrow streets.

West Iceland is often referred to as “The Sagaland”. Experience Stykkishólmur’s diversity, with lava and rock formations, glaciers, volcanic activity and hot and cold springs. Participate in one of our exciting optional activities, such as kayaking, hiking and horseback riding.

On the charming island of Flatey, time appears to stand still. Take a stroll around the village and travel back in time among the 19th century buildings. Látrabjarg is a promontory and the westernmost point in Iceland, home to millions of birds, including puffins, northern gannets, guillemots and razorbills.

Ísafjörður is the largest town in the Westfjords and has a long history as a major centre of commerce and trade, centred around its thriving fishing industry. Experience the town's architecture or join our wide range of optional excursions.

The Hornbjarg cliff is one of the greatest seabird habitats in Iceland, and we will try to land here in our polarcirkel boats. Reykjafjörður can only be reached on foot or by boat, and we plan to take a closer look at this stunning area.

Siglufjörður offers both recreation and sightseeing. A few hours in the rugged landscape gives you the chance to savour the peace and enjoy tranquillity.

Grímsey is where the Arctic Circle meets Iceland, and we will use our Polarcirkel boats to reach this island.

Akureyri is a lively and energetic town. It is the most populated community outside the Reykjavík area and the centre of trade and culture for the north of Iceland. Akureyri is close to many of Iceland’s most renowned natural beauty spots, and the town itself is a popular destination. Enjoy an optional hike or join an excursion to the impressive Goðafoss waterfall.

Húsavík is the oldest settlement in Iceland. The town’s most famous landmark is Húsavíkurkirkja, a wooden church built in 1907. Over the years, Húsavík has become increasingly popular in Iceland as a whale watching centre and is home to the Húsavík Whale Museum. After leaving the town, we will sail past the Langanes peninsula in the evening.

Bakkagerdi is the main settlement in Borgarfjörður. This area is known for its natural beauty and as “the land of the elves”. There are many puffin colonies in the fjord, so it is a popular place for bird watching. Bakkagerdi is off the typical tourist track, and offers peace, quiet and impressive views. If you prefer to be more active, you can join us for an optional tour to the natural forest of Hallormstadur. Seyðisfjörður is distinguished by its Norwegian heritage. The colourful Norwegian-style wooden houses date from the early 20th century and make this village unique. Explore the town, join a hike or take an optional excursion out to Skálanes.

Large mountains, wide rivers and the ever-present Vatnajökull glacier dominate the area around the charming fishing village of Höfn. From the harbour, you can experience a scenic view of the famous glacier, the largest in Europe and a spectacular sight. On the east coast you will find pine forests, lush farmlands and a variety of colourful fishing villages and vibrant seaside communities.

Surtsey is a volcanic island, formed by an eruption that started 425 feet below sea level and reached the surface in 1963. Heimaey is the largest of the Westman Islands, which are located off Iceland's south coast, and is dominated by magnificent cliffs. These form natural habitats for many different seabirds, including puffins and kittiwakes. The islands are also a great place for spotting whales.

Our voyage of discovery and adventure ends in Reykjavik. If you have the time, join our exciting post-programme Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon excursions.