For nature breaks with jaw-dropping scenery and plenty of wide, open spaces, Iceland has it all, says Lina Molloholli
1. Whale watching in Husavik
The town of Húsavík in northern Iceland’s Skjálfandi Bay is Europe’s whale watching capital. Here clients can enjoy close-up encounters with humpback and minke whales, as well as other wildlife such as dolphins, on board an eco-friendly and carbon-neutral electric boat.
Intrepid Travel’s nine-day Premium Iceland tour offers a guided whale watching experience and starts from £3,565, excluding flights.
2. Snaefellsjokull National Park
Snæfellsjökull National Park offers breathtaking sights: think black-sand beaches, mossy vistas, volcanic craters and lava fields. Insight Vacations offers a nine-day Natural Wonders of Iceland tour, starting from £3,728, excluding flights.
3. The famous Golden Circle
The pristine landscapes of the Golden Circle are only a short drive from Reykjavik. Must-see spots include Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area and Gullfoss waterfall.
Newmarket Holidays’ seven-day Icelandic Summer trips start in May with prices from £1,305, including flights. Finish the day with tomato soup at Fridheimar, where tomatoes are grown with the aid of geothermal heat.
4. Reykjavic
Famous for its Viking heritage and traditional cuisine, Reykjavík is a great city to explore. Spend time checking out the capital’s architecture and street art or catch the sunset and 360 views at the Hallgrímskirkja Church.
Finish the day in a local bar filled with live music and friendly locals. Trafalgar’s Iceland group trip starts from £2,150, excluding flights.
5. Kerlingarfjoll Mountain
Situated in the Icelandic Highlands, the Kerlingarfjöll mountain range is part of an active volcanic system and is one of Iceland’s most captivating geothermal areas.
After hours of hiking, travellers will enjoy a relaxing dip in one of Hveravellir’s hot springs. Abercrombie & Kent’s Ultimate Iceland Adventure starts from £4,850.
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