Snæfellsnes

Day 1 - Reykjavík/Highlands

Disembark in Reykjavík, then head north toward Langjökull glacier. Ride a specially outfitted jeep onto the glacier—the second largest glacier in Iceland—then follow your guide into a man-made ice tunnel for a glimpse of the glacier’s blue heart. Enjoy lunch at Hotel Húsafell before setting out for Víðgelmir cave, an enormous lava tube underneath the Hallmundarhraun lava field field. This giant tunnel formed from a volcanic eruption nearly 1,100 years ago. Don hardhats and headlamps to descend into the cave, where you can spot delicate rock formations and evidence of Viking Age habitation. Emerge from this remarkable underground realm and stop to observe the cascades of Hraunfossar waterfall before continuing to the town of Reykholt. Relax and unwind in the nearby Krauma geothermal baths before dinner.

Accommodations: Fosshótel Reykholt or similar. (L,D)

Day 2 - Snæfellsnes Peninsula

This morning, delve into the world of Iceland’s saga heroes and famed historians at the Snorrastofa cultural and medieval center in Reykholt. Here you’ll find the final resting place of Snorri Sturluson, Iceland’s renowned 13th-century poet, historian, and politician. Enjoy spectacular views of snowcapped peaks on the way to Grundarfjörður, a colorful fishing village situated in the north of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. After lunch in town, visit the Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall for a breathtaking view of Kirkjufell, one of the most photographed mountains in Iceland. Visit the Maritime Museum in Hellissandur, then round the coastline into Snæfellsjökull National Park. Explore the beautiful black pebbles and stones of Djúpalónssandur beach, surrounded by dramatic lava formations. After a few more scenic stops, reach your hotel beneath Snæfellsjökull glacier and enjoy a gourmet dinner.

Accommodations: Fosshótel Hellnar (B,L,D)

Day 3 - Arnastapi/Borgarnes/Reykjavík

Watch the sun rise over twisted rock formations on a guided walk through Hnausahraun lava field this morning, and marvel at the multitudes of seabirds that make their home on these jagged sea cliffs. Set out along the coast to Borgarnes to visit The Settlement Center and learn more about the early history of Iceland. Continue to Reykjavík and transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B,L)

Cost Includes:

Accommodations as shown in the itinerary, or similar; meals as shown in the itinerary; local guides on all excursions; tips to local guides, to porters and to waiters for included meals.

Not included:

Tips to waiters for meals that are not included, items of a personal nature such as laundry, Internet access, and alcoholic beverages.