8-Nights Iceland: Land of Fire & Ice

Vik

Vik, Iceland, 120 mi/190 km southeast of Reykjavik, is near the Eldhraun lava fields and the beautiful sea-rock formations of Dyrholaey. You'll find fascinating needle rock formations and very active bird cliffs. (The campground and guest cabins at Vik are dramatically situated at the foot of one of the bird cliffs.) It's worthwhile to stop in town and stroll down to the sea and watch the brilliant white waves breaking over a black-sand beach of crushed volcanic lava. While in Vik, explore the small farms at Skogar. In addition to the farms, there is an open-air folk museum with exhibits on the traditions, history and mythology of the region. Nearby are the Myrdalsjokull and Eyarfjordurjokull glaciers.

Reykholt

Reykholt, Iceland, near Borgarnes in the west, was the home of Snorri Sturluson, a beloved writer from the 13th century, and central to the Viking sagas. The beautiful countryside, seated in a valley between big hills, is the second largest agriculture area in Iceland. Just beyond the valley is Deildartunguhver, Europe's most powerful geyser, which provides heat for homes over a large area.

Reykjavik

The fire, frost and water symbolized by the red, white and blue of Iceland’s flag are manifested in this land. Reykjavik, or Smoky Bay, was so named in 874 A.D. by Ingolf Arnarson when he sighted the numerous hot springs on the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula. Today this remarkably pollution-free city is wrapped around a sweeping bay and has managed to retain its charming Old-World atmosphere. A pastiche of red-blue-and green-roofed houses together with the tall gray tower of Hallgrim’s Church dominate the skyline. In Old Town, many of the wooden buildings have been lovingly restored and stand side by side with modern timber and concrete structures. There are fine museums and art galleries; historic pubs present activity in late afternoon. The beautiful countryside outside of Reykjavik includes such natural wonders as volcanoes, geysers, glaciers, mountains and spectacular waterfalls.