Your epic journey through lush lava fields and the windswept landscapes of Iceland begins in the quirky capital of Reykjavík. The northernmost capital of the world seems infused with vivid colour, from the bustling byway of Laugavegur to the enthusiasm of the city’s friendly locals. Spend time exploring Iceland’s Viking heritage, pay tribute to the sun and snap a selfie in front of The Sun Voyager or stroll around the lively Old Harbour, before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a drink and Canapes to kick-start your love affair with Iceland. This evening, you’ll check into the Grand Hotel Reykjavík, our Stays With Stories accommodation, where nods to local mythology and nature provide the perfect introduction to a city that celebrates art around every turn. Admire the dramatic glass artwork by local artist Leifur Breiðfjörð, on proud display in the lobby as you check in for your first night in mystical Iceland.

Explore the small capital city of Reykjavík on a sightseeing tour with your Travel Director this morning. View all the city’s major attractions including the Parliament, the Harpa Concert Hall, and the city’s main landmark, the Hallgrímskirkja Church, perched at the top of a hill in the heart of the city. Leave the city behind and travel through the undersea tunnel Hvalfjörðr to Akranes, whose local Folk Museum you visit before enjoying views of the rugged coastline from the town’s lighthouse. View Deildartunguhver, Europe’s highest-flowing hot spring, followed by a visit to Reykholt, famously the former 13th-century home of one of Iceland’s most loved authors, Snorri Sturluson. Nature takes centre stage this afternoon, when you view Hraunfoss and nearby Barnafoss, both beautiful waterfalls in their own right and a soul-stirring way to end your day.

Bundle up warmly as you make your way to the wild, sea-swept landscapes of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. You’ll soon discover why it’s fondly called ‘Iceland in miniature’, revealing glaciers, waterfalls, lava fields and volcanic peaks all along this compact stretch of coast. Watch for seals basking on black sand beaches and admire the fairy-tale mountain of Kirkjufell that rises like a spire beside the sea. Return to Borgarnes for a relaxed evening at leisure. Perhaps take a stroll along the town’s peaceful waterfront promenade, visit the Settlement Centre to uncover Viking history or simply unwind with a hot drink while soaking up views of the fjord.

As you travel around Iceland’s ‘Golden Circle’, Mother Nature’s magic touch can be seen around every turn. Visit the ‘Golden Waterfall’ of Gullfoss, saved at the turn of the last century by the tenacity of a farmer’s daughter who threatened to throw herself into its depths if it was developed for hydroelectric power. Then, head to the world-famous hot spring area of Geysir and see Strokkur shoot a spectacular plume of water and steam high into the air. You’ll see first-hand how the movements of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates have carved into the Earth’s crust, in the UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park. This evening, Connect With Locals with a local storyteller and her songwriter husband, and delve into their colourful family history, then join them for dinner at an exclusive Be My Guest experience. Continue to Selfoss later, where you’ll stay overnight.

Start the day with a visit to Iceland’s newest geothermal heat and electric power station in Hellisheiði, the second largest of its kind in the world. During this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience learn why Hellisheiðarvirkjun is a world leader in the utilisation of geothermal energy. You can almost feel the Earth simmering under the surface as you journey across Reykjanes Peninsula, a UNESCO Global Geopark. This is the only place in the world where the Mid-Atlantic Ridge is visible above sea level. View Strandarkikja and let some of its legendary powers bring you good luck. Then, watch as sulphurous steam emerges from the lunar landscapes surrounding Lake Kleifarvatn. Dive into Culture with a dip in a natural lagoon (please remember to pack your swimwear), where the steaming waters are said to have healing powers. This evening, reminisce over the myths and legends you’ve encountered along the way, during dinner with newfound friends and your Travel Director.

For now, it’s time to say a fond farewell to Iceland after an unforgettable trip.