Deal

Discover this fascinating land where the forces of nature hold sway as you visit the modern capital with its thermally heated outdoor swimming pool, remarkable botanic gardens and folk museum. Explore the starkly beautiful countryside of lava formations, glaciers and incredible waterfalls and the site where the first parliament sat in 930 A.D.

The largest of the Westman Islands and the only one that is inhabited, Heimaey sits just 6.4 kilometres (4 miles) off the southern coast of Iceland but seems worlds away with its steep moss-covered cliffs, multihued volcanic rocks and abundant summer population of puffins. Still considered one of Iceland’s undiscovered gems, Heimaey beguiles visitors with its dramatic scenery and otherworldly atmosphere. Volcano and lava hikes abound, and cruising around the island reveals sea caves, lava formations, the famed Elephant Rock formation and prime whale watching. In the summer, you’re likely to spot puffins – the island is an important Atlantic puffin nesting habitat, with the Westman Islands serving as home to the world’s largest Atlantic puffin colony. Stop by the Eldheimar Museum, built around one of the houses buried in the 1973 eruption, for a look at the island’s volcanic past.

Stroll through this picturesque fishing town and admire the views from the headland. Take a drive around this stunning, craggy island of majestic waterfalls, beautiful fjords, farms, villages, enigmatic sea stacks and panoramic views of the neighbouring islands. Or visit an ancient Viking settlement in a valley of lakes.

If under-the-radar destinations are on your wanderlust list, the mysterious Faroe Islands are a dream come true. A world unto itself, this Scandinavian volcanic island chain is composed of 18 islands with Runavík situated on the island of Eysturoy. While Runavík may be the third largest settlement in the Faroe Islands, the phrase is certainly relative in this far corner of the North Atlantic Ocean – the village’s population hovers just below 4,000. The capital of Tórshavn is easily accessible by tunnel and Runavík is an ideal gateway to trails lacing the green-cladded peaks, Lake Toftavatn, kayaking on Skalafjord and the Forni historical museum in Glyvrar.

A model town for slow living, Djupivogur is big on serenity and scenery. It sits on a long fjord at the southern edge of East Iceland and a pyramid-shaped basalt mountain rises up behind the town. Some of Iceland’s must-visit glacial wonders are within reach – Jokulsarlon, a glacial lagoon, and the breathtaking Hoffellsjokull Glacier. Closer to port, excellent hiking trails are in abundance and the Bulandsnes Bird Reserve is a popular choice due to the peninsula’s rich birdlife. A nearby open-air artwork is also a claim to fame: named the Eggs of Merry Bay, the installation of 34 large-scale granite eggs represents bird species that nest in the area. Just a short boat ride away, the uninhabited, nature-rich island of Papey is a popular destination known for puffins, guillemots and other seabirds.

Embrace the traditional Icelandic character of Eskifjördur, a sleepy fishing hamlet tucked into a dramatic fjord of the same name. As you sail into the harbour, marvel at the towering silhouette of Hólmatindur Mountain, an immensely picturesque feature that watches over the town from the opposite shore. Gain a deeper understanding of the region’s fishing heritage at the Maritime Museum and, in the home-turned-museum of a charming local couple, study an astonishing collection of gems, geodes and minerals gathered throughout Iceland. While exploring the surrounding countryside, rejoice at the breathtaking scenery of craggy mountains that rise from vividly green meadows.

Nestled along the shores of one of the most breathtaking fjords in Iceland, Akureyri is the nation’s second largest city and a centre of Icelandic folk culture. Visit the museums and art festivals, hike along the extraordinary vistas, or explore the botanical gardens. Also of interest is the most northerly 18-hole golf course in the world.

Although remotely located in northwest Iceland and surrounded by ruggedly beautiful fjords, Isafjordur is surprisingly cosmopolitan. The capital of the Westfjords has long been a cultured oasis in the midst of this haunting beauty, fueled by the rewards of being one of Iceland’s largest fishing centres. The first merchants lived in wooden houses now preserved in the Neöstikaupstaöur section of town, which is alive with shops and restaurants. Two museums are of particular interest – the West Fjords Folk Museum for tools and heritage items and the Maritime Museum for a look at the 19th century fishing industry.

This Icelandic fishing community is set amidst the spectacular scenery of a dramatic bay embraced by soaring cliffs and plunging waterfalls. The town’s most famous landmark is the striking Kirkjufell, an isolated mountain that juts out of the sea. Stroll along the surrounding beaches and hiking trails, enjoy a boat trip to observe the local seals and puffins, or take a guided walk to Kirkjufell Waterfall.