Journey to the Centre of the Earth

Day 1: Reykjavik

Fly to Keflavik and collect your rental vehicle. Drive to Reykjavik for an overnight stay, perhaps taking a dip in the world-famous Blue Lagoon en route (at additional cost - pre-booking required).

Day 2: Reykjavik - Skaftafell

Head east over Hellisheidi, past the greenhouse village of Hveragerdi to two of Iceland's best known waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss. Visit the Skogar Museum or drive to Reynishverfi and stroll along a volcanic sand beach, backed by impressive basalt columns. Cross the eerie, moss-clad lava field Eldhraun, the biggest lava field in Iceland formed in 1783 after the Laki eruption and continue east to Skaftafell. Be sure to take a walk up to the nearby lake of Systravatn, view the delightful waterfall Systrafoss and the eroded basalt columns of Kirkjugolfid. Two nights at Hotel Skaftafell. This day involves a long drive along Iceland's South coast from Reykjavik to Skaftafell but offers plenty of interesting sightseeing spots on the way.

Day 3: Skaftafell

Take a hike to either the tip of the Skaftafellsjokull glacier tongue, or Svartifoss, a beautiful waterfall framed by basalt columns. In the afternoon visit the stunning glacial lagoon Jokulsarlon.

Day 4: Skafatfell - Geysir

Make your way back along the south coast past Myrdalsjokull and Dyrholaey with its spectacular rock arch. Visit the Thjorsadalur Valley, including the reconstructed farm at Stong, which dates from the Viking period, and finally Mount Hekla. Spend one night in Geysir at Litli Geysir Hotel in the heart of the Golden Circle.

Day 5: Golden Circle - Snaefellsnes

A day to explore three of Iceland's best-known natural wonders: the Geysir hot springs area, mighty Gullfoss and Thingvellir National Park for a walk around the ancient assembly site. After, continue north towards the Snaefellsnes Peninsula in West Iceland and if you wish to in the summer, take the scenic route around the edge of Hvalafjordur to visit Glymur waterfall. Spend three nights at Fransiskus Hotel in Stykkisholmur, a delightful harbour town with a strikingly modern church, and take a stroll to its connected island, Sugandisey.

Days 6- 7: Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Spend the next two days exploring the scenic Snaefellsnes Peninsula, walking among the fantastic coastal formations at Arnarstapi and visit the fjords and fishing villages along its north side. With good weather you may have views of the mystical cone-shaped volcano and Snaefellsjokull icecap. Or take part in optional excursions such as whale watching in Grundafjordur or horse riding on the coast (summer only).

Day 8: Stykkisholmur- Keflavik

Drive back towards Reykjavik, perhaps taking the coastal road around the magnificent Reykjanes peninsula, before dropping off the vehicle at Keflavik and taking the evening flight home.