Orcas & Auroras Fly-Drive

Fly to Iceland’s cosmopolitan capital, pick up your hire car and drive to the Blue Lagoon* to refresh body and soul after the flight. The iconic bright blue waters which fill the natural spa contain algae and silica mud which are said to have skin repairing and anti-aging properties . Continue along the south coast of Reykjanes peninsula before turning off towards the natural wonders of the Golden Circle. Check in to the hotel near Þingvellir National Park for three nights. Away from the bright lights of nearby towns and villages, head out to search for the magical northern lights. (115km) *Blue Lagoon entrance not included.

Spend two free days exploring the surrounding area. Regent recommends spending a full day discovering the Golden Circle. Start at nearby Þingvellir National Park situated on the tectonic plate boundaries of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, before visiting dramatic Gullfoss waterfall and the bubbling hot springs of the Geysir geothermal area. (B) (200Km)

Perhaps spend today driving to the south coast, where the Atlantic Ocean pounds the waters of the black sand volcanic beaches, or choose a glacier hike to explore the crevasses, sink holes and ice ridges of Sólheimajökull, an outlet of the larger Myrdalsjökull glacier. Don’t miss an opportunity to spend dark winter evenings searching for the aurora. (B) (300Km)

Drive towards the west of Iceland, stopping to admire Hraunfossar, small waterfalls and rapids which run through the lava, and Barnafoss waterfall, steeped in local legend. Continue to Snæfellsnes peninsula with its towering stratovolcano dominating the landscape. Check in to the hotel for two nights and head outside as the night draws in if conditions are optimum for aurora hunting. (B) (400Km)

Herring have chosen the waters around Grundarfjörður as their winter home, and never far behind this plentiful food source are vast numbers of killer whales. Embark on a winter boat tour* of the fjord for the chance to get up-close to the incredible orcas in their natural habitat and experience the frenzy of feeding time. (B) (0Km)

*Please note that this tour is operated between Dec and Feb only

Drive to Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital. Back in civilisation, be sure to head out to enjoy the chic restaurants and bars of this vibrant city. (B) (170km)