Nature prevails above all on this epic adventure around Iceland’s impossibly rugged west coast. Watch scalding water bubble out of Europe’s largest, most powerful hot spring. Stand in awe as Iceland’s widest waterfall streams over an immense lava field. See spouting geysers, explore a voluminous lava cave and unwind in two geothermally heated lagoons. The UNESCO World Heritage site Pingvellir National Park impresses for its geological phenomena and as the setting for the world’s oldest parliament. An enlightening tour of Reykjavík eases you back to civilization.
Day 1
After disembarking the ship in Reykjavik, you will depart for a full day tour along the magnificent west coast of Iceland.
Your first stop is at Deildartunguhver, Europe´s most powerful hot spring. It provides 180 l/sec of 100°C hot water.
Most of the water used for central heating in the towns of Borgarnes and Akranes is taken from Deildartunguhver. The hot water pipeline to Akranes is 64 km long, the longest in Iceland and the water is about 78 - 80°C when it reaches Akranes. If you take a shower anywhere within a 65 km radius of the spring, you have already bathed in the hot water from this powerful spring!
Next, get to know little bit about Iceland’s past heroes with a visit to Snorralaug (Snorri’s Sturluson bath) in the small town of Reykholt. Snorri was a poet, historian and politican born into a powerful chieftain family in the 13th century. Although you can no longer bathe here, you will learn how the thermal water from the hot spring Skrifla is led to the basin through a conduit.
Continue your drive to Hraunfossar Lava Falls, a beautiful and unusual natural phenomenal that has been protected since 1987. Clear, cold springs of subterranean water seep through the lava and run as tiny waterfalls and rapids into the Hvita River.
Next, stop at another waterfall, Barnafoss “Children´s Fall”, a magical site in and of itself, twisting, turning, foaming and churning as it races down a narrow valley, from which you can view it from above. Barnafoss has also been a protected site since 1987. You will then head to lunch at a local restaurant.
After lunch, another adventure awaits you at the largest of all caves in Iceland, Víðgelmir. It is the size of 148,000 cubic meters, and one of the largest lava caves in the world. It has beautiful ice formations and deep inside there are lava stalactities and stalagmites. Víðgelmir lava cave is considered by specialists to be one of the most remarkable caves on earth.
Finally, you will reach your accommodation for the evening - Hótel Húsafell or similar countryside hotel. A three-course dinner is included.
Day 2
Following breakfast and check- out, you will depart for the Golden Circle tour ending in Reykjavík.
Drive towards Þingvellir National Park, a remarkable geological phenomenon and the most important historical site in Iceland. Þingvellir is situated by the biggest lake in Iceland called Þingvallavatn, the site of the world`s oldest democratic parliament founded in the year 930. The beautiful canyon running through the park is actually the meeting point of two of the earth`s tectonic plates and the area`s combination of natural phenomena and historical significance make it inseparable from the fabric of Icelandic national life. In 2004 the site of Þingvellir was inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.
The next stop is Gullfoss Waterfall, which roars through a rugged canyon before plummeting more than 100 feet down. The water from the White River falls in two stages, which adds even more drama to its descent. Gullfoss means Golden Waterfall in Icelandic because of the color of the water, which originates from a sediment-rich glacier.
Drive to Geysir, geothermal area where your will have the opportunity to see hot springs in abundances as well as the famous geyser "Strokkur" that spouts every few minutes, shooting column of piping hot water up to 20m (60 feet). After exploring the highlights on the Golden Circle, the group will enjoy a unique food experience at Friðheimar, a family-owned restaurant.
Followed by lunch guests can opt to take a dip at The Secret Lagoon natural hot springs, located in the geothermal area near the village of Flúðir. The Secret Lagoon was made in 1891 and is one of the oldest swimming pools in Iceland. The pools natural surroundings and steam rising into the air give the place a magical feeling. Around the lagoon you will find several hot spots and a walking path so guests can have a closer look at the boiling hot springs.
NOTE: There are change facilities at the Secret Lagoon and towels will be provided
Proceed to your hotel for check in and dinner on your own.
Overnight at Hótel Borg or similar hotel
Day 3
The Reykjanes Peninsula holds many geological wonders – one of the country’s deepest lakes, bubbling and steaming earth and the world-renowned Blue Lagoon.
After breakfast, your journey commences with a pleasant drive through the lively port town of Hafnarfjörður, situated picturesquely on an ancient lava flow. Head towards the renowned Blue Lagoon which is in the middle of a beautiful lava field, seemingly in the middle of nowhere in an otherworldly landscape. The Lagoon’s aquamarine colored water, the steam and the lava landscape surrounding it succeed in creating a unique and memorable atmosphere.
After relaxing in the warm waters of the lagoon you will head across the impressive volcanic plateau of Reykjanes, driving through the bustling fishing village of Grindavík before arriving at Krýsuvík, where the striking landscape has been shaped by volcanic eruptions and violent movements of the earth. In the geothermal field, powerful jets of steam escape from deep below the earth’s crust and the multicolored pools of boiling mud bubble and pop continuously.
On your way back to the city you will drive along the enchanting Kleifarvatn Lake, one of the deepest lakes in Iceland. To stretch your legs, snap a few photographs and enjoy the rugged but scenic landscape.
Return to your hotel where the afternoon and evening are at your leisure and lunch and dinner are on your own.
Your hotel overlooks the beautiful square of Austurvöllur, in the heart of Reykjavík, across from Althingi, the Icelandic parliament and the cathedral. The Borg, which has become one of Reykjavik’s landmarks, is conveniently located within walking distance of variety of restaurants, businesses, souvenir shops, art galleries and specialty shops.
Day 4
Following breakfast and check-out, you will transfer to the Keflavik Airport based on your flight departure time.
Should you have a late flight, luggage can be stored at the hotel until your transfer time.
Land Program Details Step by Step:
•Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. All program timings are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change.
•Itineraries with the most up to date details (at the time) will be issued when you are emailed your final cruise documents 21 days prior to sailing. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.
•The hotels used for your land program will be the hotels listed in this document unless you have been advised otherwise in advance of the land program start date.
•A departure transfer is not included if guests leave before the last day of the program.
Day 1
8:30am Disembark the ship
9:00am Departure for west coast tour
10:30am Arrive at Deildartunguhver
10:50am Drive to Reykholt
11:00am Photo stop at Snorralaug Bath in Reykholt
11:30am Drive to Hraunfossar/Barnafossar Waterfalls
11:50am Visit Hraunfossar/Barnafossar Waterfalls
12:30pm Lunch at a local restaurant
1:40pm Drive to Víðgelmir Cave
2:00pm Visit Víðgelmir Cave
4:00pm Drive to your hotel for check in
4:15pm Arrive at your hotel for overnight
7:00pm Dinner at your hotel
Overnight at Hótel Húsafell or similar
DAY 2
From 7:00am Breakfast at your hotel
7:30am Depart for the Golden Circle tour
9:30am Arrive at Þingvellir National Park
10:15am Departure from Þingvellir National Park
11:30am Arrive at Gullfoss
12:00pm Depart from Gullfoss
12:15pm Arrive at Geysir Geothermal area
12:45pm Depart from Geyser Geothermal area
1:05pm Arrive at Friðheimar for lunch
2:05pm Depart from Friðheimar
2:25pm Arrive at the Secret Lagoon
3:55pm Depart from Secret Lagoon
5:30pm Arrival at hotel, dinner on own
Overnight at Hótel Borg or similar hotel
DAY 3
From 7:00am Breakfast at your hotel
9:00am Drive to Blue Lagoon
9:45am Blue Lagoon bathing (optional but included)
11:45am Drive from Blue Lagoon to Krýsuvík Geothermal Area
12:30pm Krýsuvík Viewing
1:00pm Drive to Keifarvatn Lake
1:15pm Kleifarvatn Photo stop
1:30pm Return to Reykjavík
Afternoon at leisure, lunch and dinner on own
Overnight at Hótel Borg or similar hotel
DAY 4
From 7:00am Breakfast at your hotel
12:00pm Check out time at the hotel
TBA Departure transfers to Keflavik airport based on your flight details. For guests with late flights, luggage storage will be available at the hotel until your transfer.
Extra Nights: If you book extra nights through the cruise line, you will be transferred to the airport per the flight details provided. Check-out time is 12:00pm (subject to change). Meals other than breakfast are on your own after Day 4 of your program.
Transfers: All guests booking their flights independently are required to ensure the cruise line has their most up to date flight details so that transfers to the airport can be arranged. If flight details are not received 14 days before your cruise start date, transfers will not be arranged.
Should you book any extra nights on your own or your flight is not on the last day of the program, transfers are not included.
Should you have a late departing flight you may wish to book an extra night so that you have occupation of your room until your departure. You will be asked to vacate your room by 12:00pm. Day rooms can only be purchased directly through the hotel.
Expected Weather:
The weather in Iceland can be extremely unpredictable however June, July and August are the official summer months. Also note that it’s bright all day and night in the summer months. In June, Iceland celebrates their longest days of the year. And literally, for a few weeks – the sun simply doesn’t set at all.
The average temperature in June is 48°F / 9°C
The average temperature in July is 51°F / 10.7°C
The average temperature in August is 56°F / 13°C
What to Bring:
Warm layered clothing such as thermals, fleece and a good jacket, good sturdy shoes, cameras, medicines.
Local Currency:
Local currency is Icelandic Krona. However, many companies accept EUR, GBP and USD bills only, no coins and change is given back in ISK.
Electricity:
European standard 220 Volts. We recommend bringing your own travel adaptor for electric devices.
Luggage:
Luggage will accompany the group. Although staying in the best hotels in the area, porterage service is not a standard service in Icelandic hotels. Very few hotels in Iceland have porterage staff full time and if they do it is normally 1 porter. As a result, you could experience a delay in receiving your luggage to your room depending on the size of the group. You may prefer to take your suitcase with you to your rooms.
Documents and Visa Requirements:
A valid passport is required. Please check with your local Embassy for any entry requirements for your nationality.
Hotels address:
Hótel Borg - Pósthússtræti 11, 101 Reykjavík
Hótel Húsafell – Stórarjóður, Húsafell
Program Includes for guests:
•2 nights at Hótel Borg or similar hotel – standard room including breakfast
•1 night at the Hótel Húsafell or similar hotel - Superior room including breakfast
•Two lunches (1 drink included)
•1 dinner (no drinks included)
•Touring and entrance fees per the itinerary
Please Note: Guests booking their own flights (independent of the cruise line) are responsible for ensuring that the cruise line has the updated departure information, so your transfer can be arranged. If you book additional nights independently of the cruise line, a departure transfer is not provided. If we do not receive flight details a minimum of 14 days in advance, transfers will not be provided.
Program Excludes for guests:
•Meals or beverages not listed above
•Gratuities to drivers and guides
•Personal expenses
•Hotel incidentals including mini bar and room service
Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.
Please note: All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Land Programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. There are no refunds for unused portions of any program.
