Day 1 - Reykjavík

Reykjavík, Iceland: Sprawling Reykjavík serves as the nerve centre and governmental seat, housing half of Iceland's population. Nestled by the bay beneath Mt. Esja, with its ever-changing hues, the city offers a colourful spectacle with its concrete houses painted in vibrant shades of red, blue, and green. Unlike the nearly treeless countryside, Reykjavík is rich in tall birches, rowans, and willows. The city, named from the Icelandic words for 'smoke' and 'bay', traces its origins to AD 874 when Ingólfur Arnarson saw Iceland's misty shores and settled here. Today, homes in Reykjavík are naturally heated by hot springs, ensuring no air pollution. A Reykjavík City Card provides access to unlimited bus services and entry to the city's pools, parks, and museums, offering excellent value.

Day 2 - Isafjørdur

Isafjørdur, Iceland: Flanked by two colossal rock terraces and located on a scenic fjord, Isafjørdur defies expectations with its lively ambiance despite its remote location. The town is home to a variety of cafés and restaurants ready to impress visitors. It serves as an ideal launching point for expeditions into Iceland's breathtaking wilderness, offering activities such as skiing, hiking, and other water sports.

Day 3 - Grímsey Island

Grímsey Island, Iceland: Grímsey Island is renowned for its unique charm, lying on the Arctic Circle. Visitors can experience its breathtaking landscapes, which are inhabited by significant bird colonies, including puffins. The island's remote location offers a perfect opportunity for solitude and reflection amid stunning natural surroundings.

Day 4 - Akureyri

Akureyri, Iceland: Known as the Capital of the North, Akureyri is Iceland's second-largest urban area. Sheltered from oceanic winds by surrounding mountains, the town boasts a rich history seen in its late 19th-century wooden houses. The prominent twin spires of a modern Lutheran church offer a focal point near the waterfront. To the south, the pyramid-shaped Súlur mountain provides a striking backdrop.

Day 5 - Grundarfjørdur

Grundarfjørdur, Iceland: Grundarfjørdur is set amidst dramatic scenery, notably the striking Kirkjufell mountain, often claimed to be the most photographed mountain in Iceland. The harbour town offers a gateway to exploring Snæfellsnes Peninsula, with its diverse wildlife, including orcas and several seabird species, providing a natural allure to visitors.

Day 6 - Heimaey Island

Heimaey Island, Iceland: Travelling through the pristine streets of Heimaey may render it challenging to imagine the volcanic eruption over four decades ago that almost severed the harbour. Islander intervention with seawater saved the fishing industry, preserving the island's charm. Heimaey's landscape, marked by towering volcanic rocks, showcases some of Iceland's most dramatic scenery.

Day 7 - Reykjavík

Reykjavík, Iceland: Revisiting Reykjavík allows further exploration of this vibrant city. Beyond the residential and governmental districts, the city offers various art museums and public recreational spaces accessible through the city pass. The unique thermal hot springs that heat homes contribute to Reykjavík's eco-friendly reputation.