Scenic Iceland and the Northern Lights

Welcome to Iceland. This evening, join your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a relaxed gathering with wine and canapés – a wonderful opportunity to get to know one another. Afterwards, set out in search of the most spectacular show on Earth: the Northern Lights. Marvel at the breathtaking night sky illuminated by the aurora borealis and its stunning spectrum of colour. Please note that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and sightings cannot be guaranteed.

Take a journey through the stunning landscape of Iceland's south coast and through the land of Njál‘s Saga–a region of breathtaking scenery and legendary stories. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, heading east to visit Iceland’s newest geothermal and electric power station at Hellisheiðavirkjun. Your journey continues, as you witness the majesty of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. Stand awestruck by the beauty of these thundering waterfalls, before venturing on to view more spectacular phenomena. See the magnificent Hekla and Eyjafjallajökull volcanoes. Arrive in the welcoming community of Vík. Later, perhaps enjoy another chance to go in search of the mystical northern lights?

Embark on a day of discovery around Iceland's Golden Circle, taking in some of the famous landmarks this magical country has to offer. Experience the mighty Gullfoss waterfalls - the Icelandic equivalent of Niagara Falls, before continuing on to the exploding hot springs at Geysir. Next stop is Friðheimar, to learn about Icelandic greenhouse horticulture. Visit a family-run vegetable farm, specialising in tomatoes. Explore their greenhouses and sample the sweet, unique flavour of their lovingly grown crop. Our final stop today offers the perfect opportunity to unwind at the Secret Lagoon, or Gamla Laugin as it's locally known, in an optional experience of pure relaxation. Established in 1891, this historic pool is Iceland’s oldest, inviting you to soak in its warm, natural waters.

Your first visit today will be to Thingvellir National Park, a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site that lies on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. The first meeting of the Icelandic parliament was held here in A.D. 930. Journey along the trail of Viking warrior and poet Egill Skallagrímsson. In Borgarnes, learn about Iceland's history with a fascinating visit to the Icelandic Settlement Centre. Enjoy the views of the Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls, and Deildartunguhver, Europe's most powerful hot spring, as you traverse glorious landscapes before stopping at Sturlureykir Horse Farm, a local family-run breeding farm.The farm also features a natural hot spring, where geothermal water is used to bake rye bread underground. Savour the taste of this freshly baked rye bread, a family recipe for over 100 years.

Journey back to the Icelandic capital and see Old Reykjavík, the 19th-century parliament building and Höfði House. In 1986, US President Ronald Reagan and Soviet Premier Mikhail Gorbachev met here for the famous Reykjavík Summit. Later, visit the colourful harbour and the iconic Hallgrímskirkja, the largest modern church in Iceland, standing 74.5 metres tall and visible from almost anywhere in  the city.  The afternoon is at your leisure.

Explore Reykjavík with Insight Choice. Choose to experience the magic of Iceland on an exhilarating flight-ride at FlyOver to see incredible scenery from sweeping glaciers to stunning fjords. Alternatively, visit the Perlan Museum with the Wonders of Iceland, one of a kind exhibition to experience Iceland’s natural beauty. This afternoon, enjoy time at leisure in the city. Perhaps unwind in one of Reykjavík’s many geothermal pools, visit the iconic Sky Lagoon or explore the vibrant cafes and boutiques of the capital. With your newfound friends, toast to the culmination of your fascinating journey of discovery during dinner at a local restaurant.

Your Icelandic adventure comes to an end, with a transfer to Reykjavík's Keflavík Airport.