ISLANDA ON THE ROAD.uptd 04jun BIS-DA PRENOTARE

About the destination: Reykjavik is not your typical capital city, it has no magnificent buildings, or a historic city centre or grand monuments, this city is much more than that. Iceland’s capital is different, full of life and very close to nature. Its location, at the fringe of the Atlantic Ocean, between two fjords and surrounded by a lunar volcanic framework, makes the city, which name literally means Bay of Smokes, incomparably special. The world’s northernmost capital is the perfect place for outdoor and wildlife lovers. Surrounded by sea, whale watching is one of the most popular touristic activities. The city has plenty of open spaces: parks, pedestrian areas, a lake situated next to the city hall and Nauthólsvik geothermal beach just 15 min away from the city centre. Throughout the city there are 7 municipal geothermal pools where locals go to socialize and relax after work. Other activities like cycling, hiking, horse riding, sailing and fishing can all be enjoyed on the doorsteps of the capital. Aside from all its natural wonders, Reykjavik has always something to offer. It is a cosmopolitan and dynamic city full of museums, art galleries and cosy coffee shops. Its nightlife is exciting and outrageous, during a night out, it seems locals are making up for the prohibition on beer that was in force till 1989 and nightspots tend to stay open until the early hours of the morning. During the day, the capital is a much more relaxed place, with its trim colourful houses, rubbish-free streets and an easygoing pace of life. Reykjavik is considered the one of the cleanest, greenest and safest cities in the world. Getting lost in this city is almost impossible: Hallgrímskirkja church and Öskjuhlíð hill are visible from most places in the city centre and are essential landmarks for orientation. Reykjavik is dynamic, creative, modern, cosy and very special. Its peculiar personality and magnetic surroundings will make you agree that there’s no better city in the world.

About the destination: The village of Vík is situated on the island's main ring road, about 180 km by road southeast of Reykjavík. Vík í Mýrdal or simply Vík, as the locals call it, is a remote seafront village in the south of Iceland and is the southernmost village on the Icelandic mainland. The natural environment in Vík í Mýrdal is quite beautiful, with a bird-filled black sand beach, Mount Reynisfjall to the west, Hjörleifshöfði to the east and the Mýrdalsjökull glacier at the top of the mountainous area which is perfect for exploring the lovely trails.The village of Vík is located on the main ring road around the island, around 180 km (110 mi) by road southeast of Reykjavík.

About the destination: Kirkjubajarklaustur is a village of about 160 inhabitants and only for a walk of almost 100 m, located in the south of Iceland, on the Road No. 1 in the country, Hringvegur.

About the destination: Höfn, a small fishing town on Iceland’s southeast coast, is often called the gateway to Vatnajökull – Europe’s largest glacier. Surrounded by dramatic mountains, black-sand shores, and shimmering glacial lagoons, it feels both remote and welcoming. Colorful houses, a working harbor, and views of the vast ice cap give the town a postcard-perfect charm that contrasts beautifully with the wild landscape around it. The main reason many travelers come to Höfn is to explore the nearby glacier region. From town, it’s an easy drive to sights such as Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach, where blue icebergs float in a milky-blue lake and wash ashore on black sands. In summer you can take boat tours among the icebergs, while in winter the area becomes a base for ice cave excursions, glacier hikes, and – with clear skies – northern lights watching. Despite its small size, Höfn has a surprisingly good selection of restaurants and cafés, many specializing in local seafood. The town is famous for its Icelandic langoustine (lobster), celebrated every summer during the Höfn Lobster Festival with open-air concerts and food stands. You’ll also find bakeries, cozy coffee shops, and a few bars where locals and visitors mingle after a day of outdoor adventures. Höfn works well either as a one-night stop on the Ring Road or as a longer base to explore Iceland’s southeast. Accommodation ranges from simple guesthouses to comfortable hotels, and there are several campsites in the area. Whether you’re driving the full circuit around the island or focusing on the south coast, plan at least a night here to enjoy the harbor views at sunset and wake up to the sight of glaciers glowing on the horizon.

About the destination: Nestled in the tranquil countryside of southeastern Iceland, Kalfafellsstadur is a hidden gem that promises an authentic Icelandic experience. This quaint village, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes of rolling hills, lush meadows, and dramatic fjords, offers a serene retreat away from the hustle and bustle of popular tourist spots. Whether you're an avid nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful getaway, Kalfafellsstadur provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable adventure. One of the highlights of visiting Kalfafellsstadur is exploring the nearby Vatnajökull National Park, which is home to the largest glacier in Europe. Here, you can embark on thrilling glacier hikes, ice climbing adventures, and snowmobiling tours that will leave you in awe of the sheer beauty and grandeur of the icy landscapes. The park also boasts a network of hiking trails that cater to all levels of fitness, offering stunning views of glacial rivers, volcanic peaks, and pristine waterfalls. In addition to its natural wonders, Kalfafellsstadur offers a glimpse into Iceland's rich cultural heritage. The village is home to a charming church, Kálfafellsstaður Church, which dates back to the 19th century and showcases traditional Icelandic architecture. Nearby, you can visit local farms and experience the warm hospitality of the residents, who are eager to share stories about their way of life and the history of the region. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor farm-fresh Icelandic delicacies, such as skyr (Icelandic yogurt) and smoked lamb. For those looking to unwind, Kalfafellsstadur provides ample opportunities to relax and rejuvenate. The area is dotted with natural hot springs where you can soak in warm, mineral-rich waters while taking in panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. As night falls, the clear, unpolluted skies offer some of the best conditions for stargazing and, if you're lucky, witnessing the mesmerizing Northern Lights. With its blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and serene atmosphere, Kalfafellsstadur is a destination that captivates the heart and soul. ---

About the destination: Egilsstadir, Iceland, is the largest town in the east of the island. Belonging to the Austurland region, it has a population of around 2,300. Egilsstadir sits on a plain along the Lagarfljót River. Its small airport and good hotel and restaurant facilities have made this small Icelandic town a popular tourist destination, both for Icelanders and foreign visitors. One of the main attractions of Egilsstadir is its natural environment, being the gateway to the main fjords of eastern Iceland: Seyðisfjörður, Reyðarfjörður and Vopnafjörður. Very close to Egilsstadir you can visit two spectacular waterfalls: Hengifoss, almost 120 metres high, and Fardagafoss. Its valleys and mountains (including the 1800-metre-high Snæfell Peak) offer the best environment for hikers, especially during the summer. Near Egilsstadir is the Hallormsstadaskógur forest, the largest wooded area on the island. Egilsstadir can also be a good base camp for a trip to the wonderful Vatnajokull National Park.

About the destination: Lake Myvatn is one of the highlights of the north. All major services are provided in the village of Reykjahlid, such as a mini supermarket, bank, post office, health care centre, school and swimming pool. At Lake Myvatn, different types of accommodation are available as well as good restaurants and cafés. Birdlife by the lake is abundant and a visit to the new Bird Museum is worthwhile. Myvatn Nature Bath is located just east of Reykjahlid village, where travellers can enjoy a relaxing dip in the warm natural water. In the Myvatn region there are many marked hiking routes.

About the destination: Akureyri is a town in northern Iceland. It is Iceland's second largest urban area and fourth largest municipality. Nicknamed the Capital of North Iceland, Akureyri is an important port and fishing centre. Akureyri is a very picturesque town with its location by a scenic fjord, eclectic building styles and streets winding their way through gorges. Spend some time walking around the town centre, see the impressive church and Listagilið (literally ""the art canyon""), home to a number of arts and crafts galleries and shops. The tranquil municipal botanical garden, Lystigarðurinn, is worth visiting, as are the several small museums dotted around town.

About the destination: Reykjavik is not your typical capital city, it has no magnificent buildings, or a historic city centre or grand monuments, this city is much more than that. Iceland’s capital is different, full of life and very close to nature. Its location, at the fringe of the Atlantic Ocean, between two fjords and surrounded by a lunar volcanic framework, makes the city, which name literally means Bay of Smokes, incomparably special. The world’s northernmost capital is the perfect place for outdoor and wildlife lovers. Surrounded by sea, whale watching is one of the most popular touristic activities. The city has plenty of open spaces: parks, pedestrian areas, a lake situated next to the city hall and Nauthólsvik geothermal beach just 15 min away from the city centre. Throughout the city there are 7 municipal geothermal pools where locals go to socialize and relax after work. Other activities like cycling, hiking, horse riding, sailing and fishing can all be enjoyed on the doorsteps of the capital. Aside from all its natural wonders, Reykjavik has always something to offer. It is a cosmopolitan and dynamic city full of museums, art galleries and cosy coffee shops. Its nightlife is exciting and outrageous, during a night out, it seems locals are making up for the prohibition on beer that was in force till 1989 and nightspots tend to stay open until the early hours of the morning. During the day, the capital is a much more relaxed place, with its trim colourful houses, rubbish-free streets and an easygoing pace of life. Reykjavik is considered the one of the cleanest, greenest and safest cities in the world. Getting lost in this city is almost impossible: Hallgrímskirkja church and Öskjuhlíð hill are visible from most places in the city centre and are essential landmarks for orientation. Reykjavik is dynamic, creative, modern, cosy and very special. Its peculiar personality and magnetic surroundings will make you agree that there’s no better city in the world.