Iceland Fire and Ice 35 to 45

Welcome to Iceland, home to the world's most swoon-worthy sights. You'll soon be heading home with a camera roll filled with epic vistas and a head full of cherished memories. But first thing's first, it's time to get acquainted with the quirky and colourful buildings of Reykjavik (this captivating capital is cool in more ways than one). After checking into your hostel and having time to unwind, we'll bond over a tasty local dinner, feeling the frisson of excitement about the fine days that lay ahead of us.

After breakfast this morning we're headed to Midgard Base Camp - but loads to see and do on the way as we make our way around the Golden Circle.First, a stop at the spectacular Thingvellir National Park before heading onto Efstidalur. Here, we will get an insight into local farm life at this Make Travel Matter Experience, having the opportunity to taste freshly made local ice cream and see the Icelandic cattle that make dairy in Iceland so delicious! Then we're off to the jaw-dropping geothermal fields of Strokkur Geysir and a visit to the magnificent Gullfoss Falls. After lunch we'll visit a local Geothermal Greenhouse to immerse ourselves in everything tomato - tomato cheesecake anyone? The evening offers the opportunity to relax in the rooftop sauna & hot tub at Midgard Base Camp and reflect on an incredible day in this amazing country.

Rise and shine! After breakfast we're headed across the astonishingly beautiful south shore.  It's time for more spectacular waterfalls, the famous Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. After gawping at their thundering beauty, we're headed past the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier to Reynisfjara beach. Take a walk along the uniquely black sands, admire the crazy rock formations and remind yourself you're still on planet earth.

Another day, another included breakfast and another awe-inspiring National Park to head to. Vatnajökull is named after Europe's largest ice cap, and is the largest National Park in western Europe. Cameras at the ready, we'll check out Svinafellsjökull, one of the most beautiful of the glacial outlets emerging from Vatnajökull. Today is your chance to sign up for an optional glacier adventure. We'll make a quick stop at this jaw-dropping glacial lagoon, known for it's still waters and imposing floating icebergs. We'll then visit the beach where the lagoon meets the Atlantic ocean and steal some snaps with the washed up icebergs followed by a chance to spend the afternoon hiking the Vatnajökull Glacier! We'll arrive in Vik after a day of fresh air and exploring the glorious sights that Iceland has to offer.

After breakfast today we're headed towards the Reykjanes peninsula.  Visit geothermal sites, explore dramatic coastlines and charming villages, or enjoy views over Lake Kleifarvatn with its mesmerising rock formations and legends of mythical creatures. Today you'll have a chance to take a dip in the hot springs of the Blue Lagoon.

Pack your bags back in pretty Reykjavik and try to stay on the high induced by all the wonders we’ve taken in. We’ll say our farewells as the trip wraps up, leaving us with a deep appreciation for this special country.