Travelmood - Family Adventures

Land of Ice & Fire

8 Days Land of Ice & Fire
Glaciers & Geysers

Introduction
Iceland is a perfect destination for those who want to escape to a land blessed by nature, where the Viking myths are still alive. Despite its northerly location, the Gulf Stream keeps the temperature moderate - a volcanic land of glaciers, waterfalls, hot springs and geysers. Whilst exploring the coast and fjords by boat, we'll witness unspoilt landscapes and marvel at prolific birdlife. There's also time to explore Reykjavik, go whalewatching, try your hand at horse-riding, snow-mobile on glaciers, go river-rafting or bathe in hot springs.

The Blue Lagoon, glaciers and gorges
Losing no time we head straight to the Blue Lagoon for a dip, the waters heated by thermal activity in the earth's crust and surrounded by lava fields. We base ourselves in Hella and explore waterfalls, walk through gorges and visit Porsmork Nature Reserve - shielded on 3 sides by glaciers and mountains. We'll visit a farm to learn about Iceland's horses, direct descendants from those brought over by the Vikings. The adventurous can try river rafting (wet suits available!).

Waterfalls, Geysers and Beaches
Our next stop is Geysir, famous for its Geysers! Here you'll see the pools erupt into a 30 metre spout of water, an incredible sight. Nearby are the famous waterfalls of Gullfoss; 2 broad cataracts drop into a 50m-deep gorge creating wonderful spray rainbows. A day is spent exploring the Snaefellsnes peninsula, wandering along deserted beaches and through tiny fishing villages, admiring seascapes and the sight of the Snaefellsjokull glacier, where according to Jules Verne's book, the entrance to the centre of the earth can be found.

Fjords, Whales & Reykjavik
We take to the sea for the morning to spot cormorants, puffins and with luck white-tailed eagles. We pass strings of tiny islands, once home to 'Eric the Red', the discoverer of Greenland. On our way back you'll be shown net-fishing and try some of the freshly caught scallops. Finally we drive to Reykjavik, stopping at more springs and a waterfall 100's of metres wide. Here you will have a chance to discover the charms of Iceland's capital, with time to go out to sea on a whale watching trip.