| This is a unique opportunity to visit two incredible destinations and two distinct capitals. Contrast the classic snow-laden pines and covered hills of Lapland with the volcanic curiosities and geothermal wonders of Iceland. Contrast too, stylish and sophisticated Stockholm with the charm and character of Reykjavik. And don’t forget that the potential for excellent sightings of the northern lights is doubled!
If you have a week free between December and March, spending 3 nights at the surreal ICEHOTEL followed by an overnight stay in lively Stockholm and 3 nights in Reykjavik, with all that nature on the doorstep, is an opportunity not to be missed! With a host of optional activities and excursions on offer that’s potentially a week full of one amazing experience after another!
Reykjavik is blessed with numerous natural wonders all within an easily reachable distance, whether by escorted tour or private vehicle, should you prefer to rent your own. Your 3 nights in a centrally based hotel are completely ‘at leisure’ with the freedom to choose how to fill your days.
Probably the most popular natural wonders visited on a day trip from the capital are those on the ‘Golden Circle’ route. Visit picturesque Thingvellir, site of the ancient assembly and a national park which covers part of the North Atlantic Ridge. Here, even when blanketed in snow, you’ll see where the European and North American tectonic plates continue to pull apart creating impressive ravines and ridges.
Next stop is Gullfoss, the two-tiered waterfall seen on many a postcard. Often during the height of winter, the water is frozen in time, spilling over the land into a spectacular gorge. Finally, the everbubbling mud pools and spouting geysers at Geysir, provide great photo opportunities.
Additionally, a swim in the world-famous Blue Lagoon should not be missed and it can be quite an experience to be neck deep in steaming hot, milky blue water as snowflakes land on your eyelashes! Riding a sturdy purebred Icelandic horse is another adventure to consider – these friendly, shaggy creatures provide a great way to explore the countryside. Powerful as the four-legged horses may be, an alternative way to explore is by using the staggering horsepower of an Icelandic superjeep, these iconic vehicles bounce and plough through almost any terrain.
Reykjavik is the northernmost capital city in the world, compact and easily explored on foot, even during the winter months. This endearing city has many facets: the timber dwellings and quaint churches of the historic old town are clustered by a lake. In the bustling streets around the landmark Cathedral and Parliament, Reykjavik’s cafés radiate inviting warmth and trendy shops and boutiques display the latest fashions in clothing and innovative design. There are a number of excellent galleries, countless sophisticated restaurants and hip bars.
On this itinerary your stay in Reykjavik is based at the 4 star Hotel Reykjavik Centrum. We offer a number of other quality establishments in Reykjavik, so please contact us should you wish to enquire about an alternative.
During February, Reykjavik plays host to a couple of festivals which mean special events are organised around the city – to find out more about the Winter Lights Festival and Food & Fun just give us a call.
This exciting combination operates in both directions but for the purpose of this brochure, we’ve set out the itinerary with the ICEHOTEL as the first stop. Whichever itinerary you choose, you’ll take advantage of our exclusive direct flight between London and Kiruna, cutting down on travelling time. Between Reykjavik and London, the flight will be with Icelandair – both routes offering a full service in-flight meal and complimentary drink.
With so much written about the ICEHOTEL already in this brochure perhaps we don’t need to go into too much detail here, other than confirm that the 3 nights consist of one in a Snow Room and the other two in warm accommodation. Details of excursions may be found here and of course, should you wish to upgrade to a themed Art Suite for your night ‘sleeping on ice’ then please call us.
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