This holiday will appeal to those who appreciate a variety of accommodation options that are ‘a little out of the ordinary’.
The distinctive itinerary combines the traditional circle route around Iceland with the stunning North West Fjord region, as well as a stay on the enchanting island of Flatey, in a tiny wooden hotel. Time and again, we receive positive feedback from our clients about how welcoming and friendly the Icelandic people are - that’s why we are confident our Iceland Odyssey trip will leave you with the same lasting impression. The properties are distinctive by their architecture, location and even by their owners’ personality.
For example, the Frost and Fire guesthouse, on the banks of the River Varma near Hveragerdi, is a complete surprise. With a fairly typical exterior, once inside you are greeted with contemporary décor throughout including examples of work by Icelandic artists and sculptors, even in the guestrooms. On the bank of the steaming geothermal river behind the guesthouse, you’ll find hot tubs and even a small swimming pool. The location is ideal for visiting the many places of interest in the region, including stunning Gullfoss and the famous Geysir spouting hot springs.
In the breathtaking East Fjords region, overnight at Hotel Aldan, which dates back to the 19th Century and whose reception, restaurant and café are located in what used to one of Iceland’s oldest general stores - the accommodation is in the ‘old bank’. This is a lovely place for a stroll and weather permitting, some great photography.
Spend time too at Lake Myvatn in the north and further west on Snaefellsnes.
A special treat on this itinerary is an overnight in a small and very charming wooden hotel on the tiny island of Flatey. Set in the middle of beautiful Breidafjordur Bay, Flatey has a scattering of traditional timber structures seemingly ‘frozen in time’ and particularly photogenic. The hotel’s dining room and guest rooms are in converted warehouses flanking the old market square. Here guests can savour the unique ambience of the island in welcoming accommodation and enjoy choice food with fine views over the village and coastline, and the nesting grounds of more than a few Arctic terns.
Hotel Hellnar on Snaefellsnes is a Green Globe certified hotel where host Gudrun Bergmann takes extra special care of her guests. For the perfect way to spend your penultimate night in Iceland, take a stroll around the hotel’s grounds, with the impressive glacier in the background and great views along the coastline. Be sure to look out for seals and orcas playing just off shore.
Finally, drive to Thingvellir National Park and visit the site of the ancient assembly, the Althing, before walking along the continental drift of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. Head to Hotel Northern Lights located next to the famous Blue Lagoon where you may enjoy a dip in the warm waters whilst reflecting on your holiday.
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