Iceland

Overview

If ever there was nation shaped by the forces of nature, it’s Iceland. Since the dawn of time, the elements – wind, fire and water – have buffeted, sculptured and pummeled this little black rock, leaving Arctic glaciers, smoking geysers, volcanoes and fjords in their trail.

With landscapes straight out of mythical Viking saga, it comes as no surprise that Iceland is a filming location for Game of Thrones. Yet there’s another side to Iceland; cool Reykjavik is one of our favourite small cities in Europe. Hip boutique hotels, an electric bar and club scene and leading art galleries – as well as super-friendly locals – contribute to a captivating capital city. We recommend Reykjavik as an essential stop before heading out to the wild surrounding lands.

If you’re the adventurous type of traveller, after Reykjavik we’ll whisk you away to the Reykjanes Peninsula. This is Iceland’s most jaw-dropping outdoor playground, home to the Blue Lagoon, some of the finest hiking in the world and much more beside.

Ancient volcanic eruptions have scarred the landscapes here. Steam rises from scattered geothermal pools to mix with Arctic winds; the aurora borealis lights up sky and stark tundra beneath. Experiences here can range from glacier caving and walking to whale watching and fjord boat tours to just relaxing in a natural hot pool.

Lightfoot Travel’s highly-experienced team design luxury tailor-made tours of Iceland using our own travels in the country, while offering impartial advice on where to stay.