Discover the hidden wonders of Iceland and immerse yourself in its untamed beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. An extraordinary adventure, exploring the lesser-known parts of the country, remote villages, beautiful waterfalls, dramatic sea-bird cliffs, and colourful lava fields. Be captivated by the magical landscapes of the Westfjords, where each day promises exciting experiences and unforgettable moments.
Itinerary
Day 1 Reykjavik Arrival
Coach transfer from Keflavík Airport to your hotel or nearest bus stop in Reykjavik. Time to explore Iceland's capital on your own. The city centre is a small area characterised by eclectic and colourful houses, good shopping, dining and drinking. Reykjavik has recently established itself as a haven for food lovers, with numerous restaurants taking advantage of the abundance of local seafood, meat and game. Reykjavik has many wonderful museums including the National Museum displaying artefacts from the first settlement to the modern age, giving an excellent overview of Iceland's history and culture, the Reykjavik 871+2 Settlement Museum, an archaeological museum based around a 10th century Viking longhouse unearthed in 2001, the Reykjavik Art Museum and the National Gallery. Overnight at Reykjavik Natura Berjaya Iceland Hotels or similar.
Day 2 Reykjavik - Patreksfjörður: Lava, Vikings and Fjords
Meet your guide at your hotel this morning and depart Reykjavik. Travel west, the first stop of the day will be at Grábrók, a 3400-year old volcanic crater, where a 360-degree view of the entire valley can be enjoyed. Continue to Eiríksstaðir, once home to the world-renowned Viking explorers, Eirik the red and his son Leif the Lucky. In a replica of their longhouse and living museum, immerse yourself in Viking life, Icelandic history and folklore. Stop at the first of many charming waterfalls in the Westfjords, Þingmannaá Waterfall. Our resting spot for the next two nights will be at the quaint fishing village Patreksfjörður, a remote village offering scenic view over the fjord and the Greenland Sea. Two nights at Fosshótel Westfjords or similar.
Day 3 Iceland's Westernmost Point
Begin the day at one of Iceland’s most beautiful beaches, Rauðasandur. This 10km long iridescent beach borrows its name from its stunning red-coloured sand that merges seamlessly with streams of turquoise sea water, offering wonderful photo opportunities. Visit Hnjótur Folk Museum, a perfect introduction to daily life in the Westfjords, as well as the history of agriculture and seafaring in Iceland. Continue to Látrabjarg, one of Europe’s highest seabird cliffs. This promontory is also the westernmost point in Iceland, from which there is an uninterrupted view of the North Atlantic, and of bird colonies such as puffins, razorbills, and guillemots, extending as far as the eye can see. On our journey today we will also see the shipwreck Garðar, Iceland’s oldest steel ship. In the evening we head back to Patreksfjörður, for a well-deserved rest after a day full of adventures. Second overnight at Fosshótel Westfjords or similar.
Day 4 Patreksfjörður - Ísafjörður
Today’s journey will begin at Dynjandi waterfall, one of Iceland’s most impressive and beautiful waterfalls. Dynjandi features a tiered structure which creates an ethereal stream of small cascades. Continue along the coastline and fjords to the captivating pier of Önundarfjörður. Jutting out from a stunning golden beach well into the water, the pier is a perfect place for panoramic views of the fjord. Visiting the village of Flateyri we will stop at a hidden gem, Gamla bókabúðin or “The Old Bookstore”. In operation since 1914, this charming little store is a great place to browse for unique souvenirs and appreciate traditional Icelandic design at its finest. Learn more about the history of Flateyri and the devastating avalanche in 1995. Afternoon arrival to the largest town in the Westfjords, Ísafjörður, for two nights stay at Hótel Ísafjörður or similar.
Day 5 Ísafjörður: Land, Sky and Sea
This morning we will venture to the 640m high mountain of Bolafjall, which sports a steel viewing platform that juts over the cliff with staggering view of the sea and nearby fjords. Visit the restored fishing hut at Ósvör Maritime Museum, to learn about the old days of rowboat fishing and the challenging life in isolated fishing villages in the 19th century. Continue to the village of Suðureyri, where we will enjoy an informative walk around town and have the opportunity to savour delicious seafood sourced from a local producer, to acquaint you with Iceland’s rich heritage and fishing traditions. Afernoon at leisure in Ísafjörður. Second overnight at Hótel Ísafjörður or similar.
Day 6 Ísafjörður - Breiðafjörður Bay: Geothermal Production and Sorcery
Today we travel along the fjords of Ísafjarðardjúp, where incredible views can be enjoyed – if you are lucky, you might even spot a whale! Visit the Saltverk factory in Reykjanes and learn about the process of salt manufacturing, which is powered 100% by geothermal energy. Our next stop takes us to the picturesque village of Hólmavík and its Museum of Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft. We learn about the history and folklore surrounding witchcraft and sorcery in Iceland, a vast collection of artifacts such as ancient grimoires, ritual objects, and the remarkable Icelandic magical staves which were believed to possess protective and magical powers. After an exciting day of discoveries, travel to the remote Vogur Country Lodge in West Iceland. This overnight location is a truly peaceful and beautiful place close to Breiðafjörður Bay.
Day 7 Breiðafjörður Bay - Reykjavik: Icelandic Horses
After a week of discoveries, head back to the city of Reykjavík, with few stops along the way. Start at Hraunfossar “the lava waterfalls”, which are fed by a glacial river that travels hundreds of kilometres, filtering through lava. Then visit a horse farm, where we will get to meet face-to-face with the Icelandic horse. In the afternoon explore the capital, learning about its history and stopping by many landmarks such as the popular church of Hallgrímskirkja, The University campus and Reykjavik’s charming harbour to observe the colourful fishing vessels, the beautiful mountain backdrop, and the spectacular Harpa concert hall. Overnight at Reykjavik Natura Berjaya Iceland Hotels or similar.
Day 8 Reykjavik Departure
Coach transfer from your hotel or nearest bus stop to Keflavík Airport where your tour arrangements end.
2024 departures:
16, 30 June
14, 28 July
11 August
Notes:
Maximum Group Size: 22 persons
Pre and post nights can be added in Reykjavik - please enquire
