Iceland : Aurora Retreat Self Drive

Departs on Sundays and Mondays only

Day 1 Keflavik-Budir fly from the UK to Keflavik, collect 4x4 rental vehicle from the airport and drive to Hotel Budir ; home for the next 4 nights (half board basis). The majority of the roads from the airport to Budir are tarmac and well-maintained; it is an approx 230km and a pleasant 2-3 hr drive. Enjoy a two-course gourmet dinner this evening (and every evening during your say at Hotel Budir) and lounge by one of the hotel’s open fires.

Day 2 Budir explore the magical Snaefellsnes Peninsula – with its looming mountains, the mysterious Snaefellsjokull glacier, and sweeping lava fields. Perhaps visit the north side of the Peninsula, with its fishing villages of Olafsvik and Grundafjordur. Delight in dinner this evening from the mouthwatering semi- a la carte menu at Hotel Budir. Keep an eye out for a possible display of the aurora borealis as darkness falls.

Days 3-4 Budir time at leisure to discover the landscape intertwined with Jules Vernes’ Journey to the Centre of the Earth; visit pretty Arnastapi, with its basalt columns, sea stacks and rock arches. Perhaps take a snowmobile tour on the glacier (payable locally; subject to weather conditions).  A 4x4 vehicle allows for comfortable driving during winter months; allowing you to venture further afield to Reykholt andthe 1km-wide Hraunsfossar waterfalls, close by to Iceland's largest lava caves at Surtshellir. Dinner at Budir’s restaurant and, if conditions allow, possible northern lights viewing.

Day 5 Budir-Keflavik after a leisurely breakfast check out and drive back to the airport (maybe visit the fascinating 'Settlement Centre' at Borganes enroute), for an afternoon flight back to the UK (Note: flights from Keflavik to Manchester/Glasgow depart early morning, therefore we recommend an extra night at the end of your itinerary either in Reykjavik or at a hotel near the airport - please contact our team to discuss).