Iceland : Northern Highlights

Who for? A flexible week long trip for anyone wishing to explore the many wonders of Iceland's scenic north.

The rugged north region is the richest part of Iceland, geologically speaking, straddling the 66° north latitude mark, or the Arctic Circle as it is more commonly known. Marvel at active volcanoes, stark lunar landscapes, bubbling mud pools, colourful steaming fumeroles and Europe's most powerful waterfall, Dettifoss.

Lake Myvatn, dotted with islands and pseudocraters, is a haven for bird watchers during the summer months with a variety of ducks and waders. Fishermen too come here to fish for salmon in the Laxa River which feeds into the lake.

When driving around the Myvatn area you’ll find plenty of places to pull over and investigate such as Dimmuborgir, a collection of weird and wonderful lava formations which resemble 'hidden people' frozen in time.

There is the Cowshed Café where you might like to stop for lunch and watch cows being milked, even sample a glass of warm milk straight from the source – you can’t get more organic than that! Krafla is a sight you cannot miss –  a lunar landscape of gaping fissures, sulphurous mud pools and black lava.

The Nature Baths, the north’s answer to the Blue Lagoon, have been created by the powerful geothermal activity in this area. Being smaller and less commercial than its southern cousin, the experience of taking a dip in naturally heated water, open to the elements is none the less special.

The remoteness of the north with its vast open skies makes it an ideal place to enjoy long golden days under the midnight sun.

Choose between two itineraries; the first combining Reykjavik and the North, and the second combining a stay in the North's capital city of Akureyri with accommodation in the Myvatn region.

Find out more about accommodation for this holiday »

NEW for summer 2012: convenient same-day connecting flights to/from Akureyri with Icelandair, saving you time and money! View schedule »