Iceland & the Islands Summer 2016 by ITC Travel Group

Iceland

FLY-DRIVE

WILDERNESS ADVENTURE FJORDS

ICELAND

& the Islands Summer 2016

ICEBERG

FAROE ISLANDS

VOLCANO

REYKJAVIK

LAPLAND MIDNIGHT SUN SCANDINAVIA

AZORES SUMMER GREENLAND GROUP TOUR

NORWAY REINDEER GLAMPING BLUE LAGOON

GEYSER

SPITSBERGEN

LAKES

ICE CAP

POLAR BEAR SUMMER SOLSTICE

020 7666 1293 www.regent-holidays.co.uk Part of ITC Luxury Travel Group Limited.

Iceland & the Islands Summer 2016

FINLAND

RAILWAY

LIGHTHOUSE

ARCTIC CRUISE

GLACIER

WATERFALLS

GOLDEN CIRCLE

SVALBARD

CITY BREAK

Contents 2

Iceland

68 Finland

South Iceland

72 Glamping in the Midnight Sun

West Iceland & the Westfjords

73 Culture & Cuisine of Finland

North Iceland

Wildlife Wilderness Fly-Drive

10 East Iceland

75 Bears, Wolves & Wildlife Adventure

12 Reykjavík

76 Norway

14 Reykjavík Excursions

80 North Cape & Land of the Midnight Sun

81 Unique Fjords & Glaciers Group Tour

The Blue Lagoon

15 Whale Watching

82 Flåm & Fjords Fly-Drive

16 Superjeep Excursions

83 Spitsbergen Summer Break

17 Coach Excursions

84 Arctic Cruises

18 Active Excursions 19

Horse Riding Excursions

86 Best of Svalbard

20 Reykjavík City Breaks

87 Greenland, Iceland & Spitsbergen

20 Best Western & Hotel Centrum

88 Longyearbyen & Franz Josef

21 Radisson Blu & Center Hotel Plaza

89 South Greenland

22 Icelandair Marina & Borg

92 Booking Conditions

23 Reykjavík Residence & Reykjavík4you

24 Short Breaks 24

Landscapes & Lagoons

25 Iceland Superjeep Adventure 26 Hotel Rangá 27 Hotel Grímsborgir

28 Fly-Drive Holidays 30 Iceland South & West 31 Iceland Express 32 Iceland Full Circle 33 Iceland Encompassed 34 Iceland Family Encounter

36 Group Tours 38 Iceland Complete 39 Volcanoes & Glaciers 40 Across the Wilderness 41

Grand Tour of Iceland

42 Greenland 44 South Greenland 46 Explore South Greenland 47 Greenland Coastal Voyage

ICELANDAIR A TRULY ICELANDIC TRAVEL EXPERIENCE ICELANDAIR A TRULY ICELANDIC TRAVEL EXPERIENCE

48 West Greenland 50 From Fire to Ice 51

Ilulissat Summer Break

52 Faroe Islands 56 Faroe Islands In Depth 57 Island Explorer Fly-Drive 58 Faroe Islands Experience 59

Tórshavn City Breaks

60 Azores 64 Explore the Azores 65 Beyond the Volcano Fly-Drive 66 Walking inside Volcanoes 67 Sao Miguel Holiday

Reykjavik I New York (JFK & Newark) I Boston I Orlando I Minneapolis/St. Paul I Washington D.C. Halifax I Portland I Toronto I Seattle I Denver I Anchorage I Edmonton I Vancouver New destinations for(JFK 2016: ChicagoI and Montreal Reykjavik I New York & Newark) Boston I Orlando I Minneapolis/St. Paul I Washington D.C. Halifax I Portland I Toronto I Seattle I Denver I Anchorage I Edmonton I Vancouver Whendestinations you fly Icelandair you will enjoy our brand of Icelandic hospitality New for 2016: Chicago andunique Montreal and comfort. Our fleet of Boeing 757 and 767 aircraft feature special touches from the latest Icelandic music to cosy leather seating with interactive in-flight When you fly Icelandair you will enjoy our the unique brand hospitality entertainment systems designed to make short flightoftoIcelandic Iceland fly by. We and comfort. Our fleet of Boeing 757 and 767 aircraft feature special touches provide onward connections to 16 destinations in the USA and Canada. from the latest Icelandic music to cosy leather seating with interactive in-flight entertainment systems designed you to make the short flight to Iceland fly by. We We look forward to welcoming on board. provide onward connections to 16 destinations in the USA and Canada. We look forward to welcoming you on board.

Cover image: Grass roofed church in Funningsfjørður, Faroe Islands ©Kimberley Coole/Getty Images

Ask the Experts Welcome to our 2016 Iceland & the Islands brochure; a collection of our favourite hotels, activities and tours from the lands of fire and ice. Whether you want to drift off to sleep under the midnight sun in Finland, hike along the ridge of a crater lake in the luscious Azores or take to the open road to explore black sand beaches, dramatic waterfalls and imposing glaciers, our team of Travel Specialists can create the ideal holiday for you. This brochure contains just a small selection of our favourite things to see and do in this incredible region. Visit our website for more inspiration or call a Regent Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293.

40 Year History

Holidays Protected by ATOL

Regent Holidays were among the first UK tour operators to start sending travellers to Iceland back in 1975 and we celebrated our 40th anniversary in 2015. In a country as unspoilt as this, many of our much-loved natural highlights have remained unchanged, but with new restaurants and experiences being unveiled each year, there’s always something different to see and do on every visit. Follow us on Facebook to find out how we’re celebrating our 40th year.

Your financial protection is important to us, which is why we are fully bonded by ATOL. Our ATOL licence (2786) protects any Regent Holidays package that includes a flight, and ensures that your money would be refunded or that you would be repatriated in the unlikely event of our insolvency. We are also a member of ABTA (ABTA number V2359) which means we are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you. Also if your holiday does not include flights, ABTA will financially protect your holiday by ensuring you receive a refund or, if your arrangements include return travel to the UK (other than flights) you are returned to the UK in the event that your holiday cannot be provided as a result of our insolvency.

Expert Knowledge It’s important to get the most out of your holiday, whether it’s a three night city break or a two week fly-drive. Our Iceland and Arctic experts travel frequently and extensively so that they can offer you expert advice on when to go, what to see and where to stay. Look out for their insider tips throughout this brochure, or go online to read their latest travel blogs.

1 Puffin on the cliffs at Dyrhólaey

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Regent Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Iceland Teetering on the edge of the Arctic, only a three hour flight from the UK, this staggeringly beautiful country is home to some of the world’s greatest natural wonders. Feel the power of immense waterfalls tumbling into mighty rivers, travel through dramatic landscapes crafted by thousands of years of volcanic activity, admire the beauty of the biggest ice cap outside of the poles or journey into the remote countryside to uncover secret lagoons and natural geothermal baths. Regent Holidays has been an Iceland specialist for over 40 years; contact one of our dedicated country experts for more information on our full range of short breaks, group tours and fly-drive packages.

2 Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Iceland TRAVEL KNOWHOW Flight time from UK: Approx 3 hours Time zone: Same as UK Capital: Reykjavík Language: Icelandic Currency: Icelandic Króna Population: 330,000 ICELAND IN NUMBERS

22 99% 930AD 170 4m 130 Hours of daylight in June

Electricity produced from renewable sources

Iceland has the oldest parliament in the world

Geothermal pools

Puffins (million)

Approximate number of volcanoes in Iceland

For our full range of itineraries & group tours, visit our website or speak to a specialist on 020 7666 1293.

South Iceland The Inside Story The South is Iceland’s most travelled region and it’s easy to see why, with its active volcanoes, thundering waterfalls, Europe’s largest glacier and the trio of natural wonders which make up the Golden Circle. Embark on a Golden Circle tour and discover the mysterious landscape of Geysir; meander through the geothermal field past bubbling hot pools and fumaroles to the iconic Strokkur geyser which erupts 20 metres into the sky every ten minutes. Close to Vík – Iceland’s southernmost village – Dyrhólaey is an attractive promontory created during a submarine volcanic eruption some eighty thousand years ago. Beyond the black sand beaches, the pounding Atlantic has eroded 100 metre-high lava cliffs into uniquely-shaped rock pillars which are a haven for puffins and guillemots as well as basking seals. Covering around 8% of the country’s surface, it’s hard to miss the immense Vatnajökull Glacier which dominates the south west landscape. The majority of the southern rim now forms part of Skaftafell National Park, an unmissable land of contrasts from endless flat sandy plains to soaring volcanoes. The highlight of the region is Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon, a natural wonderland where chunks of glacial ice tumble into the lake creating a visual spectacle of gigantic icebergs floating in the blue waters.

Story to tell Jane Slade

Why I love South Iceland In South Iceland the landscape moves from other-worldly lava flows to black sand beaches in no time. There are thundering waterfalls one minute and the next, icebergs calving from glaciers and drifting off to sea. Route 1 takes you through charming fishing villages, alongside active volcanoes and past the nesting sites of puffins – there can be no other road like it in the world.

South Iceland

Regent Recommends Eat

Swim

Volcanoes

Perhaps not the most likely of gourmet recommendations, the unassuming Icelandic petrol station is a surprisingly good option and can often be the only eatery in some of the country’s more remote locations; expect to join locals tucking into their evening meal at these well stocked roadside cafés. Found in nearly every petrol station in Iceland is the not-to-be-missed pylsa – a traditional hot dog topped with tomato ketchup, mustard, rémoulade or fried onions – a Regent Holidays favourite for lunch on the road. Petrol stations are often the best places to pick up well-priced groceries so stock up for a picnic and find a remote spot to enjoy lunch with a view.

Packing your swimming costume to visit Iceland is essential. No matter the weather, do as the locals do and take the plunge. Choose from indoor or outdoor swimming pools or naturally heated ‘hot pot’ thermal spots; some of our favourite swimming places are located in South Iceland. For a dip with a view, venture to Iceland’s oldest pool – Seljavallalaug dates back to 1923 and sits nestled in the narrow valley below Eyjafjallajökull, overlooked by snow-capped glaciers. Hidden a 20 minute walk from the ring road at Raufarfell, this slice of serenity is well worth the journey, but for a more easily accessible water experience, head to the whirlpools and natural sauna of Laugaskarð Thermal Bath, thirty minutes from Reykjavik.

From Björk and fermented shark, to steaming geysers and the Blue Lagoon, Iceland is famous for many things – but it’s the striking volcanoes that steal the show. From South Iceland’s ring road, glimpse views of the mighty glacier-topped Katla, rumbling Hekla and the unpronounceable Eyjafjallajökull. Climb aboard a Superjeep and take on rough mountain tracks for a Volcano Hat-trick tour and take to the skies by plane or helicopter for an astounding aerial view. Brave souls should visit the Blafjoll Mountains and jump into an open cable lift, to descend deep inside the Thrihnukagigur Volcano crater on an Inside the Volcano tour. We eagerly await the opening of LAVA – Iceland Volcano and Earthquake Centre in Spring 2017.

Flight of the Pufflings On Heimaey in the Westman Islands, the Flight of the Pufflings is one of the highlights of the birding year. At the end of the breeding season in mid-August, hundreds of thousands of baby puffins leave their nests in the cliffs for the first time and head out to sea. Those whose fumbling attempt at first flight isn’t successful are picked up by the local Puffin Patrol, and it’s popular for the island’s children to head out into the night with torches to rescue stranded baby birds and nurse them through the night, before releasing them into the wild in the morning. www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

West Iceland & the Westfjords The Inside Story West Iceland is a microcosm of the country; head north from Reykjavík and you’ll soon encounter mystical mountains, immense glaciers, bubbling hot springs, colourful fishing villages and Viking legends, not to mention wildlife in abundance with noisy seal colonies, steep puffin cliffs and whale watching viewpoints all within tantalising reach. The enchanting Snæfellsnes National Park is the highlight of the West, with the imposing Snæfellsjökull at its centre. Made famous by novelist Jules Verne in Journey to the Centre of the Earth, this 700,000 year old stratovolcano with a glacier covering its summit dominates the landscape and provides the perfect opportunity to explore, with easy hiking trails criss-crossing the lava fields. Jutting out from the north west coast, the remote Westfjords peninsula is best known for its incredibly intricate coastline, containing more than half the fjords in Iceland. The steep vertical cliffs of the fjords are home to several million sea birds, and Látrabjarg – Europe’s westernmost point – is one of the best places to see them. The staggeringly high basalt walls are decorated by huge numbers of puffins and guillemots from May to August, and also boast the largest colony of razorbills in the world, estimated to be close to half a million.

Story to tell Shane Hosiene

Why I love the West With impressive views over Snæfellsjökull volcano on the south side, and the imposing cliffs of the Westfjords on the north, Breiðafjörður’s giant bay is one of my favourite places in Iceland. Take the ferry from Stykkishólmur for the best views and the chance to observe the prolific birdlife. In the summer months it’s possible to make a stop at Flatey island with its colourful 19th century houses.

West Iceland & the Westfjords

Regent Recommends Eat

Stay

Fly-Drive

Fancy a quick snack of dried fermented shark meat? Then you’re in luck. Situated on the north coast of Snæfellsnes Peninsula around a 30 minute drive from Stykkishólmur, the Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum is a little slice of old Iceland, where generations of the same family have caught and prepared shark meat in the traditional way for hundreds of years. Located on a farmstead overlooking Hraunfjordur bay, the small museum details the history of the family’s shark fishing heritage, with restored fishing boats and harpooning tools on display. No tour would be complete without sampling the fragrant hákarl – an acquired taste which is sometimes likened to old cheese.

Set in splendid isolation, just an hour and a half from Reykjavik, the eco-chic Hotel Husafell is your passport into the remote Icelandic countryside. Located on the doorstep of Langjokull Glacier in Borgarfjordur valley, the unobtrusive hotel uses 100% renewable energy produced on site and its design is inspired by nature. Sample locally sourced, Nordic inspired cuisine in the gourmet restaurant as you look out across the luscious valley through the floorto-ceiling windows before soaking in the outside heated geothermal baths. The hotel provides an ideal base to discover the nearby glaciers, lava caves, hiking trails and the newly opened ‘Into the Glacier’ experience.

Uncover the best of West Iceland and the Westfjords on a 9-day fly-drive. Leave the cosmopolitan capital of Reykjavík and head out to discover a more traditional Iceland. Drive to Snæfellsnes and take the coastal ring road which encircles the peninsula, travelling to the north side to overnight in a fishing village. Take the morning ferry across Breiðafjörður bay to the Westfjords and continue to Látrabjarg to discover the bountiful birdlife. Spend days five and six in and around the town of Ísafjörður and perhaps take an optional boat trip to Vigur island, before continuing to Hólmavík where tales of sorcery and witchcraft abound. Ask a Regent Specialist about flydrive tours in West Iceland.

7 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

North Iceland The Inside Story Despite being a sparsely populated region of farmland and fishing villages, North Iceland boasts some of the country’s biggest attractions. Dettifoss waterfall in Jökulsárgljúfur National Park is the most powerful waterfall in Europe, whilst the fishing town of Húsavík is known as Iceland’s whale watching capital. Board a traditional oak boat and sail out in search of minke whales with the stunning snowcapped peaks of Víknafjöll as the backdrop. Lake Mývatn is the region’s biggest draw; created by a large basaltic lava eruption 2,300 years ago, the shallow lake and its islands are surrounded by volcanic landforms including black lava fields, cones and calderas, as well as wetlands which attract huge numbers of ducks. The area’s Nature Baths are a less touristy alternative to the Blue Lagoon – enjoy a relaxing dip amidst clouds of steam rising up from a fissure deep in the Earth’s surface or swim in a pool of geothermal water drawn from depths of up to 2,500 metres. 25 miles off the mainland lies Grímsey island, the northernmost inhabited Icelandic territory. This remote, rocky island is home to just 100 people as well as a summer population of a few million sea birds. A day trip by plane offers travellers the opportunity to set foot inside the Arctic Circle as well as to experience nature at its most raw.

Story to tell Emma Brown

Why I love North Iceland After travelling across the otherworldly lunar landscapes of Möðrudalsöræfi desert plateau in North Iceland, I can think of no better way to round off an incredible day than by luxuriating in the wonderful Mývatn Nature Baths – quite possibly the greatest place you’ve never heard of. Wallowing in the warm, mineral-rich waters, looking out across the lava fields to stunning Lake Mývatn as a crisp evening mist descends, there is certainly nowhere else I’d rather be!

North Iceland

Regent Recommends Eat

Siglo Hotel

With far-reaching farmland so characteristic of the north, it’s not surprising that meat and dairy are the staples of local eateries. Despite the long, Icelandic winters, Brynja ice cream parlour is something of an Akureyri institution – expect long queues in summer as well as on icy winter days. Lake Mývatn’s Vogafjós restaurant is located inside a cowshed and offers wonderful dishes such as raw smoked lamb, homemade mozzarella and smoked trout. While tucking into the creamy cheese on offer, watch the cows being milked on the other side of a glass wall which separates the diners from the herd. Pick up some local crafts or homemade cheese at the small onsite boutique.

Nestled in a fjord on the northern tip of Iceland, the small fishing village of Dalvik is the ideal place to embark on a whale watching adventure. Sailing on traditional, oak boats the friendly crew will help you to spot the marine life as you head from the harbour and out towards the Arctic Circle. Dolphins and whales – including humpbacks and minkes – have been spotted on 98% of tours so there’s an excellent chance of a sighting. Enjoy a grill of freshly caught fish before returning to shore. From mid-May to the end of June it is possible to sail further out for the chance to see migratory blue whales – the largest mammal on Earth. Ask a Regent Iceland Specialist to book your whale watching tour.

The country’s most northerly town, Siglufjörður clings precariously to the foot of steep rugged mountains which enclose an isolated narrow fjord on the very edge of Iceland: the Arctic Circle is only 40km away. Nestled amongst the restored, colourful, fishermen’s harbour, the newly opened Siglo Hotel is a highlight of any trip north. Relax in your window seat and enjoy picturesque views over the glassy surface of the fjord before tucking into freshly caught fish or succulent lamb in restaurant Sunna. In the evening, sample Sunna Bar’s signature cocktails and relax in the outdoor hot tub before retreating to your elegant room for a peaceful and luxurious night’s sleep.

Herring Heritage Nowhere was the influence of the Herring Adventure felt more strongly than in Siglufjörður. Within forty years this once sparsely populated hamlet was transformed into a thriving town of more than three thousand inhabitants. Discover more about the goldrush-like atmosphere at the award-winning Herring Era Museum, Iceland’s largest maritime museum. Housed in a variety of different buildings, the Boat House recreates the town’s bustling 1950s harbour while the Róaldsbrakki building, built as a Norwegian herring station in 1907, now houses a fascinating exhibition on herring salting. www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

East Iceland The Inside Story The first part of Iceland to be discovered by the Vikings, the East is an untamed wilderness of mountains, fjords, deserts and forest. With the ring road clinging to the intricately carved inlets of the fjordland, isolated fishing villages of just a few hundred people emerge between each set of steep cliffs. A comprehensive network of hiking trails cross the mountains between the fourteen fjords, rewarding walkers with spectacular views across the dramatic coastline. Carved by an Ice Age glacier, Seyðisfjörður is the scenic location of a picturesque fishing village which begs to be explored. The colourful Norwegian-style wooden houses dating from the early 20th century bring the history of the village to life, whilst walking into the surrounding hills provides breathtaking views over the fjord below. Further south, the setting of Djúpivogur – or Deep Bay – village is one of incomparable natural beauty. Teetering on the very edge of the headland, this pretty village is decorated by tiny boats and historic houses which date back to the fishing industry of the early 1700s. Relax in the geothermal hot tubs at the village’s outdoor swimming pool – one of many which can be found in the communities of the East Fjords, no matter how small the local population.

Story to tell Mike Voss

Why I love East Iceland When you reach the fjords of East Iceland it feels as if you’re stepping off the edge of the world. The cliffs drop steeply into the sea with the seals and puffins vying for your attention, and where time seems to slow right down – no mean feat when you’re in Iceland! Take some time to walk the many beautiful trails which start right by the road and the exhilarating feeling and stunning views when you reach the top will live with you forever.

East Iceland

Regent Recommends Eat

Sleep

Seyðisfjörður

Reindeer were introduced from Norway in the 18th century, and today the wild herds remain only in the East. With no natural predators, the population is controlled by sustainable hunting, and with reindeer meat being one of Iceland’s top delicacies, expect to find it on the menu at most restaurants. Try the thick-cut steaks, reindeer burger or even the pâté at the Icelandair Herad’s fashionable hotel restaurant. Some of the country’s best salmon rivers can be found in Vopnafjörður, and the fresh fish dishes found in the East Fjords are a real delight. Historic Hotel Aldan in Seyðisfjörður is a wonderful place to enjoy the dish of the day. Take in stunning views over the fjord and harbour as you eat.

The small village of Fáskrúðsfjörður was originally settled by French seamen who came to fish the Icelandic coast from the end of the 19th century, and in recognition of its Gallic history, local street signs are in both Icelandic and French. The Fosshótel Austfirðir is a newly revived addition to the village’s heritage, housed in what used to be a hospital for French fishermen. There is no clinical feel to this bright 26-room hotel however – with its chic Scandinavianstyle décor and French inspired restaurant, L’Abri, it’s the perfect place to relax after a day exploring the village and surrounding walking trails. Speak to a Regent Iceland Specialist to include this hotel on your fly-drive holiday.

The long deep fjord of Seyðisfjörður twists and turns over 10 miles from its mouth to the bottom, where the colourful town of the same name lies beneath two towering mountains. Considered one of the most picturesque towns in Iceland, not only because of the location but for the collection of old preserved wooden houses. The pretty blue church offers great photograph opportunities against the backdrop of steep fjord slopes. Go kayaking in the still waters of the bay or take a hike to the oldest operational power plant in Iceland, built in 1913. Enjoy a local El Grillo beer in the town’s bar whilst listening to stories of Lara, a native legend.

11 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Reykjavík The Inside Story The world’s northernmost capital, Reykjavík offers a thriving cultural scene with an abundance of first class restaurants, stylish galleries and historic landmarks. But it’s the incredible natural wonders that surround Reykjavík which make it more than your average city break destination. Take a whale watching cruise from the historic harbour, discover the Golden Circle with its thundering waterfalls and bubbling geysers or relax in the healing waters of the Blue Lagoon. Reykjavík makes the perfect year-round city break destination. Try midnight whale watching at the height of summer, or opt for a Superjeep tour to discover the famous Golden Circle – a trio of natural wonders all within 100km of the capital. The Reykjavík Culture Night sees museums, galleries, churches and shops hosting events late into the evening culminating with a spectacular firework display at midnight. Regent’s dedicated Iceland Specialists can put together the perfect Reykjavík city break package for you. We’ll recommend a hotel to suit your needs, arrange your flights and airport transfers and book your excursions in advance to make sure that you experience the best of the incredible natural attractions during your stay.

Story to tell Joanne Wheeler

Why I love Reykjavík I love strolling down Laugavegur in the summer months, pottering in and out of the pretty wooden shops and galleries, and stopping for a bite to eat and refreshment in one of the cafes. Iceland is renowned for its beautiful wool and felt crafts and I always manage to come home with a unique gift or two.

Reykjavík

Regent Recommends Visit

Eat

Aurora Reykjavík

With so many incredible natural wonders to explore, it would be easy to bypass the city streets of this compact capital. But to do so would be to miss out on the cultural and creative heart of the nation. Visit the National Centre for Cultural Heritage to discover some of the most important medieval manuscripts in the world, including many of the oldest Icelandic Sagas, or to listen to a traditional recital by local musicians. The National Gallery of Iceland houses the country’s largest collection of works by major Icelandic artists of the 19th and 20th centuries, whilst the Harpa concert hall enjoys performances from the Iceland Symphony Orchestra and Icelandic Opera.

Surrounded by the pounding Atlantic Ocean, exceptional fresh fish dishes abound in Reykjavík’s top restaurants and hotels. Situated in the fashionable 101 area, Restaurant Fish Market is a Regent favourite. The restaurant buys directly from Iceland’s farmers and fishermen to guarantee sustainability and quality, and customers can watch the seasonal dishes being prepared in the open kitchen. For dinner with a view, head to the famous Perlan restaurant whose glass dome is a landmark on the city skyline. Tuck into Icelandic specialities while the top floor restaurant slowly revolves every two hours revealing a full 360° view of the city and surrounding mountains.

Want to see the elusive Northern Lights but can’t wait until the winter? Then look no further than the recently opened Aurora Reykjavík, The Northern Lights Centre, where the Northern Lights are always on display no matter what season! Learn about the science behind this fascinating phenomenon and go back in time to discover myths and legends about the Aurora from around the world. Admire spectacular Northern Lights photography and even pick up a few tips in the specially equipped ‘photo booth’ where you can learn how to adjust your cameras settings for the best shot. Do not miss the HD panoramic time-lapse film of the Northern Lights in Iceland that runs continuously in the theatre.

Reykjavík City Breaks You’ll find a wonderful selection of Reykjavík hotels, excursions and activities on the following pages. All of our city break prices shown include return flights in economy class with Icelandair from London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Manchester, Glasgow – and Birmingham – all airport taxes, return airport transfers by the Flybus+ shuttle service and three nights accommodation with breakfast in a twin or double room at a Regent-recommended hotel. Ask one of our dedicated Iceland Specialists to put together the perfect Reykjavík city break package for you. www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

The Blue Lagoon Located only 20 minutes drive from Keflavík Airport, and around 40 minutes from downtown Reykjavík, the Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s top attractions. Situated in the middle of a black lava field, the mineral-rich, geothermal seawater comes from holes as deep as 2,000 metres, filling the natural spa with its iconic bright blue water. Known for its healing and well-being qualities, the 37-39°c water is rich in active ingredients including algae, natural minerals and the Blue Lagoon’s signature ingredient – white silica mud. Said to have skin-repairing and antiaging properties, do as the locals do and plaster it over your face and body for a rejuvenating skin tonic. Holding over 6 million litres of water, there’s plenty of space in the natural spa for enjoying some quiet contemplation, relaxing with a Blue Lagoon cocktail, or indulging in an optional in-water massage. Our Iceland Specialists can arrange an excursion to the Blue Lagoon with either pick up from your Reykjavík hotel, or as part of your arrival or departure transfer from/to Keflavík Airport – what better way to soothe and refresh body and soul after your flight.

Blue Lagoon availability is limited and prebooking is required. Ask your Regent Iceland Specialist to book your Blue Lagoon excursion from Reykjavík, departing at 8am, 9am, 10am, 11am, 1pm, 4pm and 6pm

Blue Lagoon Excursion from Reykjavík Price from £65 Includes pick up at Reykjavík hotel, bus transfers and entrance to the Blue Lagoon.

Blue Lagoon Comfort Price from £75 Includes pick up at Reykjavík hotel, bus transfers, lagoon admission, use of towel, one drink from the in-water bar, Skin Care Trial Pack and algae mask (self applied).

Blue Lagoon Experience Premium Price from £90 Includes pick up at Reykjavík hotel, bus transfers, lagoon admission, priority entry queue, use of towel, bathrobe and slippers, one drink from the in-water bar, Skin Care Trial Pack, algae mask (self applied) and reserved table at the LAVA restaurant with an aperitif drink. Ask a Regent Iceland Specialist about arrival / departure transfers via the Blue Lagoon. (The Lagoon may be very busy at these times.)

Reykjavík Excursions

Humpback Whale Breaching

Whale Watching Iceland provides some of the best whale watching in the world, with more than 20 species being recorded in Icelandic waters, and an excursion from Reykjavík’s historic harbour is a must. Depending on the season, it’s possible to see minke and humpback whales, white-beaked dolphins, harbour porpoises and various sea birds such as puffins, gannets, guillemots, gulls, kittiwakes, arctic terns and many more. Our partners Special Tours offer the largest and fastest whale watching passenger boats in Iceland. Choose the Whale Watching Express onboard the Rosin, which will get you to the whale watching grounds in only 20-30 minutes and is great fun for the adventurous! Or board the biggest whale watching boat in Iceland – the Andrea, where there’s plenty of space for everyone inside and outside including a cafe and souvenir shop on board.

Prices Whale Watching Andrea or Express: £58 Sea Angling: £73 Puffin Express: £38

Children 7-15: Whale Watching Express or Andrea: £29 Sea Angling: £37 Puffin Express: £19 Child 0-6 years: FREE

Summer Whale Watching

Express Whale Watching

Puffin Express

Apr-Sep, Daily 3-3.5 hours, various departures Summer season is ideal for whale watching, especially from the comfort of ‘Andrea’, the biggest whale watching boat in Iceland. In summer, minke whales are at their most abundant, along with the white-beaked dolphins, harbour porpoises and humpback whales, offering the chance to enjoy their antics in their natural environment.

May-Aug, Daily 2-2.5 hours, 10am and 2pm The Rosin (the Rose) was built solely for the purpose of whale watching and is one of the fastest passenger boats in Iceland so you can travel to the whale watching areas in only 20-30 minutes. The crew will share some interesting facts about the whales and other wildlife you may encounter as she heads out into the Faxaflói Bay.

May-Aug, Daily 1 hour, various departures Board the historic “Old Skuli”, built in Siglufjörður in 1959 and previously used as a ferry between Reykjavík and Viðey, for unique Puffin Watching Cruise. Sail to the remote islands covered with small hills and slopes, ideal habitation for a host of colourful seabirds. Here, the engines are turned off and time is given to spot the comical puffins and other birds.

Sea Angling May-Aug, Daily 2.5-3 hours, 5pm Embark on a sea angling trip in Faxaflói Bay, fish for cod, halibut, haddock, rockfish and pollock. Spend time with the captain and the crew, who will share entertaining stories of the sea. This tour is perfectly suited both to experienced fishermen and to beginners. Barbecuing the fish caught is a popular option for the proud fishermen!

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Superjeep Northern Lights Hunt

Superjeep Excursions Some of Iceland’s most spectacular scenery can be found only a short drive away from Reykjavík. Join a Superjeep full day excursion and discover thundering waterfalls, powerful geysers and dramatic glaciers. Modified with huge tyres to take on the mighty challenge of Icelandic terrain year round, Superjeeps are all equipped with GPS and an experienced off-road driver behind the wheel to take you on an exhilarating journey into the heart of Iceland’s natural wonders.

Prices from South Coast Adventure £209 Landmannalaugar £235 The Golden Circle £199 Volcano Hat-Trick £235 Snowmobiling/Quad biking £120

(Golden Circle supplement, based on two persons per skidoo/quad bike. Single rider: £155) Prices are per adult. Children under 12 travel half price when travelling with 1 adult (minimum age 6 years).

South Coast Adventure Year-round, Wed, Fri, Sun 9-10 hours departing at 8.30am The south coast boasts some of Iceland’s most dramatic scenery. On this full day tour, discover Urridafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, see Eyjafjallajökull, Gigjokull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers, enjoy breathtaking views over the Atlantic Ocean, and admire vast panoramas of the ever-changing glacier flood plains and dramatic black sand beaches.

Volcano Hat-Trick

1 Jun – 30 Sep, Wed, Fri, Sun 9-10 hours departing at 8.30am Explore three different volcanoes on this full day tour. Head off-road on mountain tracks to the foot of Mount Hekla, the most active volcano in the country, known for centuries as the gateway to Hell. Visit the volcanic crater lake Kerið, formed around 6,500 years ago, plus the Stóra Eldborg lava ring on this geological discovery.

Landmannalaugar & Helka 1 Jun – 30 Sep, Wed, Fri, Sun 9-10 hours departing at 8.30am Hekla is one of Iceland’s most extraordinary geological wonders so discover rivers running through glittering crater walls, admire lava fields and colourful mountains and witness geothermal activity. Take a walk on ice, lava and ash, then dust off and warm up in the hot thermal pool at Landmannalaugar – be sure to bring a towel.

The Golden Circle Year-round, Tue, Thu, Sat 8-9 hours departing at 8.30am Enjoy the highlights of South Iceland’s natural wonders on this full day Golden Circle excursion. Discover Þingvellir National Park, where the first Icelandic parliament was established over 1,000 years ago, see mighty Gullfoss waterfall plunge into a 32m crevice and visit the Geysir geothermal field to witness Strokkur geyser erupting into the sky.

Snowmobiling or Quad Biking Golden Circle Optional Extra Experience the thrill of adventure by adding a one hour snowmobiling or quad biking experience to your Superjeep Golden Circle excursion. In the winter months, take an exhilarating snowmobile tour on Langjökull glacier, or in the summer opt for a quad biking adventure through Iceland’s mountainous desert highlands.

Reykjavík Excursions

Skógafoss Waterfall

Coach Excursions With free pick-up from your Reykjavík hotel, the highlights of Iceland’s spectacular landscape are just a day trip away. Enjoying plenty of stops en route, you’ll discover Iceland’s nature, history and geology on our popular coach excursions to some of the country’s most wonderful sights. Admire Iceland’s famous ‘Golden Falls’ on the Golden Circle, walk along a black sand beach on the dramatic south coast, embark on the excursion of a lifetime in search of the aurora borealis or feel the full force of nature at your feet with a walking tour on the incredible Sólheimajökull glacier. Coach excursions must be booked in advance; ask a Regent Iceland Specialist to put together the perfect package for you.

The Golden Circle Year round, daily, various departures Classic Golden Circle 8 hours departing at 8.30am, 9.30am, 10.30am Afternoon Golden Circle 6 hours departing at 1pm Late afternoon Golden Circle 6 hours departing at 4pm (1 Jun – 6 Sep) Evening Golden Circle 5 hours departing 6pm (1 Jun – 20 Aug) Some of Iceland’s iconic sights await on our most popular Reykjavík excursion. Soak up Icelandic history at Þingvellir National Park and walk through a canyon formed between two tectonic plates. Admire the force of the River Hvítá plummeting over Gullfoss waterfall and see Strokkur erupt every 15 minutes in Geysir. Escape the crowds and see these amazing sights under the midnight sun on the late afternoon or evening tour.

South Coast & Glacier Lagoon Apr-Oct, various days 14 hours departing 8am South Iceland is a lowland region of lush farmland, striking waterfalls, sandy coastlines and coastal villages. On this full day tour walk up to the iconic Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, visit Vatnajökull Glacier and continue to Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon to watch floating icebergs.

Prices from Classic Golden Circle: £55 Afternoon Golden Circle: £53 Late afternoon Golden Circle: £50 Evening Golden Circle: £47 South Coast & Glacier Lagoon: £155 Westman Islands: £150 Landmannalaugar: £116 The prices are per adult. Children under 11 travel free, children 12-15 years old travel half price.

Westman Islands 15 May – 15 Sep, various days 14 hours departing 7.30am Take the ferry to the Heimaey, the largest island of the Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands). Be inspired by tales of bravery during the 1973 eruption and understand how it has gained the name “Pompeii of the North”. Visit puffins at Stórhöfði and walk to the crater of Mt. Eldfell.

Landmannalaugar 15 Jun – 12 Sep, Mon, Wed, Sat 12 hours departing 8.30am Journey to a land of colourful mountains formed by centuries of volcanic activity in the highlands. Whilst here, relax over a cold Icelandic beer bathing in a natural geothermal spring or take a short hike into the nature surrounding Landmannalaugar. On the way back to Reykjavík pass by Mt. Helka.

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Þórsmörk Volcano Hike

Active Excursions Iceland’s incredible landscape begs to be explored on foot. Embark on an active excursion for the opportunity to experience some of the country’s most geologically important sights in close-up.

Prices from

The lava caves of Þingvellir and the Blue Mountains are hidden underground worlds which tell the story of past volcanic activity, while the Silfra fissure is one of the most impressive freshwater dive sites in the world. Opt for a challenging volcano hike to see the site of the first of the two infamous volcanic eruptions in 2010 and discover first-hand how it changed the surrounding landscape forever.

Þórsmörk Volcano Hike £171

No previous experience is necessary to join an active excursion and all specialist equipment is provided.

Glacier Hike & Ice Climbing Year-round, daily 10 hours departing at 8.30am Journey to the frozen glacial tongue that is Sólheimajökull – a rugged, ever-changing hub of ancient frozen water. Explore the crevasseriddled outlet glacier with its amazing ice formations, sink holes and jagged ridges and stop at an ice wall to try climbing with ice axes. An experienced glacier guide is on hand throughout and all equipment is provided.

Glacier Hike & Ice Climbing £143 Lava Caving & Snorkelling £143 Minimum age for the Glacier Hike is 14 and minimum shoe size 3. Minimum age for the Snorkelling & Lava Caving is 14 and minimum height 4ft 9in. Minimum age for the Volcano Hike is 16. All prices are per person and include return transfers to hotel, specialist guides and equipment. Please note that lunch is not included.

Lava Caving & Snorkelling

Þórsmörk Volcano Hike

Year-round, daily 7 hours departing at 9am Start the adventure with lava caving in a perfect example of lava tubes in either Leiðarendi cave in the Blue Mountains (winter), or the lava field under Þingvellir National Park (summer). In the afternoon enjoy snorkelling in the crystal clear water of Silfra fissure, a rift between the North American and Eurasian plates, with world class visibility of around 80m.

01 Apr – 14 Jun & 16 Sep – 30 Oct, Sat 15 Jun – 15 Sep, daily 12-14 hours departing at 8am Þórsmörk valley is cornered by glaciers including the steep foothills of the Eyjafjallajökull glacier. Travel to the highland valley by 4x4, and start the 6-8 hour (20km) hike up and down the Fimmvörðuháls volcanoes where it will be possible to touch new lava, see brand new craters and enjoy vast sweeping views over the highlands.

Reykjavík Excursions

Íshestar Riding Centre

Horse Riding Excursions The Icelandic horse can be traced right back to the settlement of the country in the 9th century and the breed has remained pure for over a thousand years. Today there are close to 80,000 horses in Iceland, known for their intelligence and good temperament. The Íshestar Riding Centre is set in beautiful countryside just outside the town of Hafnarfjörður, only 10 minutes’ drive from Reykjavík. Riders are provided with warm overalls, raingear, riding boots and helmets, and the knowledgeable Íshestar staff take pride in selecting horses to suit individual riders’ needs. Visit our website for the full range of horse riding tours and excursions.

Prices from Lava Horse Riding Tour: £60 Midnight Sun Riding: £106 Nature Comfort Riding: £47 Prices are per person, and include return hotel transfers from Reykjavík. Minimum age for Midnight Sun Tour is 12 years. Minimum age for Lava Riding Tour is 8 years. Children aged 8-12 years travel half price.

Lava Horse Riding Tour

Midnight Sun Riding

Nature Comfort Riding

Year-round, daily 3 hours (1.5 riding) various departures Ideal for beginners as well as for more experienced riders, this scenic ride uses excellent paths through lava fields and along the beautiful green hillsides that surround the Íshestar Riding Centre. Experience the impressive tölt – a smooth four-beat gait – which is the speciality of the Icelandic horse, on this popular riding tour.

1 Jun – 15 Jul, Thu, Fri 2 hours (1 riding) departing at 9pm In the height of summer the Icelandic sun never fully sets, and the dramatic landscape takes on a magical glow. Departing the Íshestar Riding Centre at 10pm, enjoy the spectacular, unique experience of riding one of the centre’s beautiful horses under the midnight sun surrounded by lava formations and the rugged backdrop of rural Iceland.

Year-round, daily 2 hours (1 hour riding), various departures Minimum age 8 This tour is an ideal choice for beginners plodding along beautiful riding tracks through moss covered lava fields with spectacular views of Bláfjöll Mountains in the distant horizon. No previous riding skills are required for this tour and the pace is slow enough to make even the most nervous first-time rider totally at ease.

19 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

3 NIGHT CITY BREAK | HHH

3 NIGHT CITY BREAK | HHHH

Best Western Hotel Reykjavík

Hotel Reykjavík Centrum

The Best Western Hotel Reykjavík is a quiet, modern hotel located just a few minutes’ walk from Laugavegur shopping street and known locally for its friendly, attentive service.

Located on Adalstraeti, one of the city’s oldest streets, the Hotel Reykjavík Centrum comprises three colourful 18th century-style buildings offering a traditional Icelandic feel, and as the name suggests, the hotel boasts a central location in the heart of the capital.

The hotel has 79 comfortable and spacious en suite rooms equipped with satellite television and minibar. Triple and family rooms are also available, as well as upgrades to deluxe rooms or junior suites which are split over two levels with a sitting area and bathroom downstairs and bedroom upstairs. A wonderful array of eateries can be found in Reykjavík’s fashionable downtown area around 10 minutes walk away, or alternatively dine at one of the restaurants situated on either side of the hotel. Housed in an old brewery, cosy La Luna restaurant is a family owned pizzeria serving tasty Italian classics including authentic wood fired pizzas as well as pasta and salads. Or for something really different, try intimate Harry’s Oriental Restaurant and Cafe on the opposite side which mixes Icelandic and Filipino cuisine for a truly unique dining experience.

The hotel has 89 elegantly decorated and comfortable rooms equipped with free wifi and satellite television. Deluxe rooms offer an extra level of comfort, while the junior suite is spread over two levels with a downstairs living room and balcony. The hotel also has four bright and cosy Nordic-style studio apartments which can be rented for a weekend stay or longer Reykjavík break. Funky Fjalakötturinn restaurant serves gastro-style food in chic surroundings, and at Uppsalir bar and café, guests can enjoy light refreshments relaxing by the fireplace in winter, or outside on the terrace on warm summer evenings. A fascinating exhibition centre under the hotel displays the oldest architectural remains in Iceland dating from around 870 AD.

Prices from £640

Prices from £760

per person twin-share Price includes economy class flights with Icelandair, 3 nights B&B accommodation & airport transfers

3 NIGHT CITY BREAK | HHHH

3 NIGHT CITY BREAK | HHH

Radisson Blu Saga Hotel

CenterHotel Plaza

Located in a quiet area of the city next to the National Museum of Iceland, the highlights of downtown Reykjavík are just a 20 minute walk or short bus ride away from the Saga. With 209 rooms overlooking the city, sea or university, guests can expect modern furnishing with free wireless internet, mini bar and satellite television as standard. Junior Suites feature maritime or Scandinavian design and include a spacious lounge area, while the Lazytown Family Suite will keep kids entertained with original props from the show decorating the room. All guests have access to the on-site Mecca Spa and Health Centre with its Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room. Rising eight storeys above street level and providing breathtaking panoramic views over the city, Grillið Restaurant’s award-winning master chefs create mouth-watering Icelandic dishes; we recommend booking a three, four or even seven course tasting menu with wine selected by the sommelier. For a more casual dining experience opt for a buffet breakfast, lunch or dinner in cosy Restaurant Skrudur.

Located on Ingólfstorg Square in Reykjavík’s Old Town, the CenterHotel Plaza offers value for money with a city centre location. For travellers visiting in December, the square hosts the annual Christmas Market complete with log cabins and twinkling lights. Pick up some traditional Icelandic festive treats including homemade sweets, roasted almonds and hand-made crafts. The Plaza’s 184 comfortable bedrooms offer bright modern décor with contemporary oak furnishings. Each room has its own en-suite shower, free high-speed internet connection, flat screen TV, tea and coffee making facilities and a mini bar. Within a few minutes walk are Parliament House, City Hall, the National Cathedral and the historic harbour area, where winter whale watching excursions and northern lights boat tours depart. After a busy day exploring Reykjavík and its surrounds, perhaps indulge in a local Reyka Vodka at the hotel’s Plaza Bar, with its floor-to-ceiling windows and modern fire pits keeping guests cosy in the winter months.

Prices from £695

per person twin-share Price includes economy class flights with Icelandair, 3 nights B&B accommodation & airport transfers

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

3 NIGHT CITY BREAK | HHHH

Icelandair Hotel Reykjavík Marina

Hotel Borg

A unique hotel in the up and coming harbour district, the Marina is characterised by its colourful modern design which embraces the building’s maritime past. With the ships of the dry dock just outside the front door and the bars and restaurants of the 101 district just a few steps away, this hotel is truly at the heart of the city.

The sleek and stylish Borg is a grand art deco hotel in the heart of Reykjavík. Overlooking Austurvöllur Square – the location of the Icelandic parliament and the city’s cathedral – this 1930s landmark is surrounded by bustling cafés and historical buildings, and is within easy walking distance of a huge variety of galleries and restaurants.

The fashionable Slipp bar is a favourite with locals and hotel guests alike, and often plays host to events including live Icelandic music. Do as the locals do and enjoy the lively atmosphere with a colourful cocktail and tasty sharing platter.

A charming mix of art deco elegance and modern style, all 56 rooms have custom-made furniture, period black and white bathrooms with heated marble floors, flat-screen satellite television and high-speed internet connections. For an extra touch of luxury, ask a Regent Iceland Specialist about upgrading to a superior room or suite, where Bang & Olufsen flat-screen televisions and luxurious Hastens beds are among the high quality additions. The two-floor Tower Suite, which often accommodates visiting celebrities, boasts a magnificent 360° view of Reykjavík.

Standard rooms are simple and stylish with a maritime-inspired twist, whilst an upgrade to a Deluxe room offers additional space as well as stunning views over the North Atlantic. For families, opt for a 4 or 6 person Studio where children will delight in the quirky bunk bed design, or for those looking to push the boat out, the spectacular suites offer wonderful mountain views combined with chic seating area, luxurious bathroom and comfortable connecting bedrooms.

The hotel’s Silfur restaurant serves the best of Nordic cuisine in opulent surroundings. Expect a unique take on traditional dishes and exceptional service.

Prices from £745

Prices from £920

per person twin-share Price includes economy class flights with Icelandair, 3 nights B&B accommodation & airport transfers

3 NIGHT CITY BREAK | HHHH

3 NIGHT CITY BREAK | HHH

Reykjavík Residence

Reykjavik4you Apartments

A home away from home, Reykjavík Residence is a brand new apartment hotel in the fashionable 101 district. Within 300 metres, travellers can explore the old Reykjavík harbour, Hallgrímskirkja Church, Laugavegur and Skólavörðustígur shopping streets and the quirky Kolaportið flea market, open on Saturdays and Sundays. Each of the seventeen apartments is comfortably furnished in a bright, modern style. Standard apartments boast a generous living and dining area, bedroom with double or twin beds, shower room, kitchenette with fridge, stove, microwave and coffee maker, high-definition flat screen TV and DVD, iPod docking station and free Wi-Fi. A daily maid service helps to keep each apartment spotless, and breakfast is delivered to the room every morning. The spacious two-bedroom and three-bedroom apartments are ideal for families, and also feature a dishwasher, washing machine and dryer. Extra beds and baby cots are available, making the three-bedroom apartment suitable for up to eight people.

Reykjavik4you Apartments make for a modern and stylish base in the centre of the capital. Fully furnished and equipped with everything you need to feel at home, each apartment boasts contemporary furniture, wooden flooring, king size bed, television with DVD player, iPod docking station, coffee machine and free Wi-Fi, and also includes a daily cleaning service. Choose to dine out at one of the many restaurants nearby such as the Seafood Grill on Skólavörðustígur just three minutes’ walk from the apartments, or pick up ingredients from the local grocery store just around the corner and make use of the fully-equipped kitchen. Spacious one room Studio apartments bring together the sleeping, sitting and cooking facilities in one space. Two-bedroom apartments sleep up to four people and enjoy separate sleeping and kitchen/ living areas, while the larger two-bedroom Deluxe apartments can comfortably sleep up to six people, with two sofa beds in the living room, and also include a Jacuzzi in the bathroom. (Deluxe apartments are located on Laugavegur shopping street.)

Prices from £690

Prices from £720

per person twin-share Price includes economy class flights with Icelandair, 3 nights B&B accommodation & airport transfers

Two-bedroom apartment from £635pp based on four people sharing Three-bedroom apartment from £595pp based on six people sharing

Two-bedroom apartment from £640pp based on four people sharing Two-bedroom Deluxe apartment from £575pp based on six people sharing

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Landscapes & Lagoons Discover the highlights of South Iceland on this short break centred in Reykjavík. Enjoy four nights in the cosmopolitan capital where restaurants and galleries abound, combined with a range of excursions to the must-see natural highlights. Travelling in summer is the best time to visit; journey through lush green landscapes, marvel at crashing waterfalls or head deep into a glacier.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Iceland Specialist for more information Day 1 Fly to Reykjavík | Arrive at Keflavík airport and transfer to Reykjavík for four nights. Day 2 South Coast & Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon | Travel along the south coast on a narrow strip of lush farmland that cuts between mountains, glaciers and the Atlantic Ocean. Feel the spray of striking waterfalls, walk along the black sand beaches and visit quaint coastal villages. Continue to the breathtaking Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon where spectacular, luminousblue icebergs drift past you. Here, scout for seals and take in the wondrous ice sculptures striped with ash layers. (B) Day 3 Reykjavík & Blue Lagoon | Enjoy a morning sightseeing tour of Reykjavík including the presidential residence at Bessastaðir, Hafnarfjörður and the striking Hallgrímskirkja Church. After lunch transfer to the Blue Lagoon for the chance to enjoy a unique bathing experience in the mineral-rich waters. Enjoy steamy views of this famous geothermal spa as the 39 °C water evaporates. (B)

Day 4 Golden Circle and Langjökull Glacier | Option 1: Embark on a full day tour to discover the natural wonders of the Golden Circle including Gullfoss waterfall, Strokkur geyser and Þingvellir National Park, the site of the world’s oldest parliament and the meeting place of the North American and European tectonic plates.

Option 2: (supplement of £179pp): Head inside Iceland’s second largest glacier, Langjökull, for a once in a lifetime experience. Travel over the glacier in modified vehicles and head inside to explore the manmade ice-tunnels and ice caves in the centre of the glacier. Spend the evening discovering the Golden Circle before driving back to Reykjavík. (B) Day 5 Fly back to UK | Transfer to Keflavik airport for your flight back to the UK. (B)

Tour duration

5 days

Holiday type

Tailor-made Guided excursions

Seasonality

May-Sep

Prices from

£1160 per person

Includes flights, accommodation, transfers and sightseeing tours Note: Price based on Hotel Saga, Centrum, Arnarhvoll or Miðgarður – please contact us for other hotel options.

Iceland Short Breaks

South Coast Off-Road black sand Adventure beach

Iceland Superjeep Adventure Discover the natural wonders of South Iceland on your own private Superjeep adventure, with personal driver-guide. Modified with huge tyres to take on the challenge of Iceland’s rugged terrain, Superjeeps are built for getting off-the-beaten-track. Embark on an exhilarating drive over the black sands of Skaftafell National Park, enjoy steep ascents up icy glaciers and get up-close to volcanic Mt Hekla.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Iceland Specialist for more information Day 1 Fly to Reykjavík | Arrive in Reykjavík and transfer to the city centre hotel for an overnight stay. Perhaps head out to eat at one of the chic restaurants in the fashionable 101 area, or ask a Regent Iceland Specialist about optional excursions to the famous Blue Lagoon en route from the airport. Day 2 Volcanic Highlands | Begin the private tour, heading through the farmlands of Landssveit and stopping at the Saga-age farm at the foot of Mt Hekla, one of Iceland’s most active volcanoes. Continue to the colourful volcanic rhyolite mountains of Landmannalaugar and relax in a natural hot pool before visiting Eldgja – a 40 kilometrelong eruptive fissure – and Ofaerufoss, an extremely beautiful waterfall in the NyrðriÓfæra river which falls into Eldgjá in two cascades. Take the mountain road behind Myrdalsjokull glacier and continue to the tiny village of Kirkjubaejarklaustur, home for the next two nights. (B) Day 3 Skaftafell National Park | Drive along black sand beaches before arriving in Skaftafell National Park which contains half of Europe’s largest icecap, Vatnajokull. Take time to explore some of the national park’s beautiful hiking trails before continuing to Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon. Watch the lagoon’s giant icebergs floating out to sea, or perhaps take an optional boat tour to get up-close to the giant blocks of 1,000-year-old ice calved from Vatnajokull glacier. (B)

Day 4 The South Coast | Head west along the southern coastline, and drive up to the Myrdalsjokull glacier for an optional snowmobile tour. Continue to Vík, Iceland’s southernmost village famed for sweeping black sand beaches, and discover Skógafoss waterfall with its sheet of water falling 60 metres. Explore the historic sites of the Njals Saga and drive through Hveragerdi, known as the Greenhouse Village, before arriving back in Reykjavík for the final night. At the height of summer, perhaps take an optional midnight sun whale watching tour from the downtown harbour for the chance to see humpbacks in their natural habitat. (B) Day 5 Reykjavík to UK | Take a private transfer to the airport for the flight back to the UK. (B) Tailor-make the Adventure | The beauty of travelling by modified 4x4 is that you can access more off-the-beaten-track areas of the country – and with your own private Superjeep, where exactly you choose to explore is up to you. Superjeep adventure tours can be tailormade to suit your individual interests and time frame – why not choose somewhere really remote and consider an exhilarating summer journey along the highland interior desert track between Vatnajokull and Hofsjokull glaciers? With an English-speaking driver-guide at the wheel, sit back and relax as the dramatic scenery and history of the sagas unfolds. Ask a Regent Iceland Specialist to put together your own Superjeep adventure itinerary.

Holiday duration

5 days

Holiday type

Tailor-made Fully Guided

Seasonality

May-Sep

Prices from

£1770 per person

Includes flights, accommodation, transfers, transport on excursions by Superjeep and driver-guide. Price based on 4 passengers travelling together

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Hotel Rangá

Hotel Rangá Short Break Hotel Rangá is a 4-star countryside retreat in picturesque South Iceland. Just 80 minutes drive from Reykjavík, the remote location is ideal for exploring the natural wonders of the South or for simply relaxing in the serene surroundings. The cosy hotel is the perfect spot for a romantic getaway where couples can relax in the outdoor geothermal hot tubs.

The Hotel For more information, visit our website Located on the banks of the famous salmon river Eystri-Rangá, the hotel’s stunning setting affords incredible views of mountains and glaciers. Many of the country’s most extraordinary natural sights are within an hour’s drive; discover the active volcano Mt Hekla, explore the woodlands and glacial rivers of Þorsmörk nature reserve and tour the trio of Golden Circle wonders including Gullfoss waterfall, Þingvellir National Park and the bubbling hot springs at Geysir. The hotel’s acclaimed gourmet restaurant has beautiful riverside views and serves high quality seasonal dishes inspired by modern Nordic cuisine, and of course the menu features the freshest salmon from the Rangá river. After dinner, relax at the bar with a local beer or head outside to one of the hotel’s hot tubs overlooking the river.

The hotel offers 51 well-appointed, cosy rooms. The 24 en-suite Standard rooms have views over the river or Mt Hekla and feature flatscreen TV, minibar and free wifi, while the 20 Deluxe rooms have an added level of comfort with king-sized beds and Jacuzzi bathtub. Ask a Regent Iceland Specialist about upgrading to one of the uniquely designed Junior or Master Suites, decorated with exclusive artworks and furnishings inspired by the continents of the world. The Royal Master Suite boasts spectacular views of the river and Mt. Hekla. The latest addition to the Rangá is a roll-off roof Astronomical Observatory, equipped with two high quality 11-inch computerised telescopes which can be used to view amazing detail on Jupiter and see Cassini’s Division in the rings of Saturn.

Holiday duration

5 days

Holiday type

Fly-Drive Unguided

Seasonality

May-Oct

Prices from

£1110 per person

Includes flights, car hire and accommodation Ask an Iceland Specialist about upgrading to a 4 wheel drive vehicle from £199pp.

Iceland Short Breaks

Hotel Grímsborgir

Hotel Grímsborgir Short Break Located in Grímsnes next to Iceland’s largest freshwater river, the Grímsborgir is a collection of luxury country apartments at the heart of the Golden Circle route. Delight in the picturesque surroundings, beautifully decorated rooms and warm welcoming reception from the hotel’s owners Olafur and Kristin. Opt for a sumptuous weekend break or stay for four nights to explore the wonders of South Iceland.

The Hotel For more information, visit our website Just a 45 minute drive from Reykjavík, the Grímsborgir is a haven of tranquillity set against a stunning South Icelandic backdrop. Travel just ten minutes to the 6,000-year-old volcanic crater Kerið, take a 20 minute drive to Þingvellir National Park or journey for around an hour to reach mighty Gullfoss waterfall and lively Strokkur geyser. Housed in six stylish holiday homes, the hotel’s ten luxury apartments accommodate between four and nine people each and are therefore ideal for families and groups, as well as couples seeking a secluded romantic break. Depending on the room grade chosen, guests can expect a spacious, well-appointed apartment with kitchen, living room and dining area, as well as barbecue and private outdoor hot tub on the terrace which overlooks the beautiful mountainous landscape.

Ask a Regent Iceland Specialist about the different Studio and Deluxe apartments available. Seating up to 60 diners, the elegant Grímsborgir Restaurant offers gourmet food and typical Icelandic dishes all prepared with fresh, local produce. With tasty traditional soups, delicious locally-sourced fish, meat and vegetarian options, plus indulgent cakes and desserts on the menu, booking a three course meal during your stay is a must. All breads and pastries are freshly baked every day onsite, and the delicious hot or cold breakfast is the ideal way to start the day.

Holiday duration

5 days

Holiday type

Fly-Drive Unguided

Seasonality

May-Oct

Prices from

£1235 per person

Includes flights, car hire and accommodation Ask an Iceland Specialist about upgrading to a 4 wheel drive vehicle from £199pp.

27 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Fly-Drives The Inside Story If you enjoy independent travel, a fly-drive holiday will give you the opportunity to discover Iceland’s natural beauty at your own pace. Base yourself in Reykjavík and discover the national parks and remote landscapes surrounding the city, or opt for an exploration of the whole country, taking the famous Route 1 to the four corners of the island. For those with a sense of adventure, opt to travel in July and August when the Highland Interior Routes can be traversed by 4WD, for a unique perspective of Iceland’s rugged terrain. The tours featured on the following pages are an indicator of our most popular fly-drive packages, however we can tailor-make an itinerary to suit any time-frame, budget and interest, whether you’re a seasoned hiker or an adventureseeking family. Our Iceland Travel Specialists will advise you on the type of car your trip will require and the optimum length of time needed in each region to fully appreciate the surrounding area. Before you travel you’ll receive our comprehensive travel documents which include a list of natural wonders, suggested activities, local attractions and places to eat on your route, including GPS coordinates and opening hours, to make sure you experience the best the country has to offer.

Story to tell Jane Slade

Why I love independent travel When you are travelling along Iceland’s empty roads there is barely a moment that you don’t want to get out and explore. As the road skirts past volcanoes and glaciers, and around the edges of narrow fjords and peninsulas, having your own car allows you to stop wherever you want to enjoy the scenery. My most memorable stop was Siglufjörður, a tiny fishing town in a narrow fjord on the northern coast with incredible views.

Iceland Fly-Drives

Driving in Iceland

Iceland Highlights Fly-Drive Discover the scenic highlights of the south on this 5-day express fly-drive. Pick up the hire car at Keflavík airport and drive along the south coast of Reykjanes Peninsula to the famous Blue Lagoon for a therapeutic dip in the geothermal waters. Follow Route 1 past gigantic Skógafoss waterfall, infamous Eyjafjallajökull volcano, the black sand beaches of Vík and on to Skaftafell National Park before returning to Reykjavík via the natural wonders of the Golden Circle.

Iceland on the Road Travel full-circle in just 10 days and encounter the incredible sights of South Iceland before driving the stunning east coast where narrow fjords carved by Ice Age glaciers create calm natural harbours. Cross the Mörðrudalsöræfi highland pass en route to the volcanic Lake Mývatn region and continue to Húsavík – Iceland’s whale watching capital. From Akureyri the picturesque farmlands of the North West are the backdrop to the final part of the journey back to Reykjavík.

Iceland in Depth Family Fly-Drive The ultimate summer holiday adventure, this 13-day itinerary based in self catering cottages brings geography lessons to life with an added dose of fun. See geysers bursting 20 metres into the sky, soak your feet in a bubbling mud pool, find out about the 2010 eruption at the Þorvaldseyri volcano centre, take a dip at the Hofsós outdoor geothermal swimming pool, learn about Erik the Red at the Eiríksstaðir Viking farm and explore the hidden underground world of the Vatnshellir lava caves. www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Arnarstapi & Snæfellsjökull

Iceland South & West Experience the stunning and diverse landscapes of Snæfellsnes Peninsula in the west and explore the must see attractions of the south on this popular fly-drive adventure. Discover mountains, waterfalls, glaciers and hot springs and uncover the rich history and scenic beauty of some of Iceland’s most famous national parks before completing the journey in the country’s quirky, colourful capital.

Suggested Itinerary Ask a Regent Iceland Specialist to tailor-make this itinerary Day 1 Fly to Reykjavík | Arrive at Keflavík airport and collect the hire car. Drive along the south coast of the Reykjanes Peninsula to the Blue Lagoon. Perhaps enjoy a relaxing bathing experience in the mineral-rich waters of this popular attraction before continuing the journey to Hveragerði. (80km) Day 2 Reykjavík to Skaftafell | Drive to the visitors centre located at the foot of the Eyjafjallajökull volcano, which famously erupted in the spring of 2010. The centre includes an interesting exhibition of film and photographs of the volcanic eruption. Discover basalt columns in Kirkjuæbjarklaustur before reaching Skaftafell National Park. (B) (325km) Day 3 Skaftafell National Park | Enjoy the day in Skaftafell National Park. Embark upon an optional glacier walk or spend the day hiking. Discover the Svartifoss waterfall with its high black basalt column, or walk all the way up to the ice at the Svínafellsjökul glacier tongue. In the afternoon drive to Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and admire the maze of small and large icebergs floating in the glacier-fed lake. (B) (120km)

Day 4 Skaftafell to Flúðir | Drive to Vík to enjoy a stroll along the black sandy beach, and search for puffins nesting at Dyrólaey,* a small peninsula on the south coast of Iceland before ending the day in Flúðir. (B) (285km) *Please note that Dyrhólaey is closed during nesting season in spring, mid-May to end-Jun.

Day 5 Flúðir to Borgarnes | Discover the magnificent Gullfoss waterfall and explore the Geysir geothermal area, home to the famous spouting Strokkur geyser. In the afternoon travel to Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, not only remarkable for its geology but also an important location in Iceland’s history, as it was here the Vikings established their parliament in 930AD. (B) (205km) Day 6 Snæfellsnes Peninsula | Journey through the countryside to Snæfellsnes Peninsula and spend the day exploring this area. Discover the charming fishing town of Stykkishólmur, admire Mt. Kirkjufell and the surrounding coastline, mountains and waterfalls, enjoy the spectacular sea shore at Breiðafjörður bay and visit Bjarnarhöfn – the region’s leading producer of hákarl (shark meat). (B) (305km) Day 7 Borgarnes to Reykjavík | Travel back to Reykjavík and spend the day exploring the capital city which boasts dozens of cafés museums, bars and restaurants. Wander around the harbour or drive to Perlan, a unique and magnificent landmark building located on Öskjuhlíð hill offering panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. (B) (75km) Day 8 Reykjavík to the UK | Return the car to the airport and fly back to the UK. (B) (50km) Please note: km stated on each itinerary day = approximate driving distance covered that day

Holiday duration

8 days

Holiday type

Fly-Drive

Seasonality

Apr-Oct

Prices from

£1055 per person

Includes flights, accommodation and car hire (N-class VW Polo or similar) Upgrade to P-class Suzuki Grand Vitara from £155pp

Iceland Fly-Drives

Skaftafell National Park

Iceland Express Travel the full circuit in Iceland and discover a wealth of natural wonders on this exciting fly-drive holiday. From the capital, head north through farmlands and stunning countryside to Iceland’s second capital Akureyri. Drive the intricately carved coastline in the east before venturing south to uncover mountains, glaciers and the spectacular sights of Iceland’s famous Golden Circle.

Suggested Itinerary Ask a Regent Iceland Specialist to tailor-make this itinerary Day 1 Fly to Reykjavík | Arrive at Keflavík airport and collect the hire car. Drive to the famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa and relax in the mineral-rich waters before continuing to the Icelandic capital. Spend the evening exploring Reykjavík, perhaps take a drive to Perlan (The Pearl) and dine at the restaurant in this remarkable landmark building located on Öskjuhlíð hill which offers panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. (80km) Day 2 Reykjavík to Skagafjörður | Drive through the farmlands of Borgarfjörður and north to Skagafjörður, one of Iceland’s most prosperous agricultural regions and an area famed for its horse breeding. (B) (290km) Day 3 Skagafjörður to Akureyri | Travel to Akureyri, Iceland’s second largest city known to many as ‘the capital of the north’. Discover museums, cafés and restaurants and visit Brynja – a parlour known across Iceland for serving the best ice cream in the country. If time allows, enjoy a whale watching excursion from Húsavík before travelling to the Mývatn area. (B) (265km) Day 4 Lake Mývatn to Egilsstaðir | Spend the day exploring the area around beautiful Lake Mývatn, home to many species of rare duck. Discover the volcanic rock formations at Dimmuborgir and Skútustaðir, hike to Leirhujúkur crater and cross the highland path to reach Egilsstaðir stopping en route at Europe’s most powerful waterfall, Dettifoss. (B) (165km)

Day 5 Egilsstaðir to Skaftafell | Drive along the East Fjords through the fishing town of Höfn and onwards to the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, a must see attraction where visitors can sometimes witness large blocks of ice break off the glacier and float in the surrounding waters. (B) (385km) Day 6 Skaftafell to Vík | Explore the rugged landscape, mountains and glaciers at Skaftafell National Park, a perfect base for those who wish to climb Iceland’s highest peak, Hvannadalshnjúkur. Discover a network of hiking trails, including the route to Svartifoss waterfall and to Skaftafellsjökull glacier before continuing along the south coast to Vík. (B) (140km)

Holiday duration

8 days

Holiday type

Fly-Drive

Seasonality

Apr-Oct

Prices from

£1070 per person

Includes flights, accommodation and car hire (N-class VW Polo or similar) Upgrade to P-class Suzuki Grand Vitara from £155pp

Day 7 Vík to Reykjavík | Today discover some of the famous sights in the south west. Admire the incredible Gullfoss waterfall and explore the Geysir hot spring area home to Strokkur, Iceland’s most energetic hot spring, which spouts every few minutes. Continue to Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated on the tectonic plate boundaries of the mid Atlantic Ridge. The park is an important and remarkable site both historically and geologically. (B) (290km) Day 8 Reykjavík to the UK | Return the car to the airport and fly back to the UK. (B) (50km) Please note: km stated on each itinerary day = approximate driving distance covered that day

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Hot Mud Pots in Hverir

Iceland Full Circle Experience Iceland’s natural treasures and explore this fascinating country in depth on this full circle itinerary. Travel at a relaxed pace through varied landscapes and get to know all of the main areas of interest whilst having enough time to venture a little off-the-beatentrack to places not typically visited. Enjoy breathtaking natural wonders, experience summer’s glorious midnight sun and discover a rich and captivating cultural heritage.

Suggested Itinerary Ask a Regent Iceland Specialist to tailor-make this itinerary Day 1 Fly to Reykjavík | Collect the car at Keflavík airport. Continue along the south coast to Hveragerði or Selfoss. (100km) Day 2 Golden Circle | Visit the impressive Gullfoss waterfall and Geysir hot spring area, home to the famous Strokkur geyser, and explore Þingvellir National Park. (B) (210km) Day 3 Reykjavík to Kirkjubæjarklaustur | Travel through the area where the Eyjafjallajökull volcano erupted in 2010, visit Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, stop to search for puffins at Dyrhólaey and stroll along the black beach in Vík. (B) (285km) Day 4 Skaftafell National Park | Explore Skaftafell National Park. Enjoy a glacier walk or spend the day hiking to the numerous attractions in the park. (B) (50km) Day 5 Kirkjubæjarklaustur to Egilsstaðir | Drive to Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and take an optional boat tour amongst the icebergs. Continue to Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull and onwards to the town of Egilsstaðir. (B) (385km) Day 6 East Iceland | Explore Lake Lagarfljót, drive to the large dam at Kárahnjúkar and hike to Hengifoss waterfall. (B) (195km)

Day 7 Egilsstaðir to Mývatn | Cross the highland mountain pass, Möðrudalsöræfi and stop for homemade waffles at the mountain café Fjalladýrð. Enjoy the surrounding vista before continuing to Iceland’s most powerful waterfall, Dettifoss. (B) (165km)

Day 8 Lake Mývatn | Explore Mývatn, an area known for its spectacular geology, geothermal heat and large number of ducks which nest by the lake. Discover pseudo craters at Skútustaðir, lava formations at Dimmuborgir and enjoy a soak in the Mývatn Nature Baths. (B) (80km) Day 9 Lake Mývatn to Akureyri | Drive to Húsavík, a fishing town close to the Arctic Circle. From here it is possible to spot whales in the fjord. Visit Goðafoss waterfall en route to Akureyri. (B) (145km) Day 10 Akureyri to Skagafjörður | Drive through fishing towns Dalvík and Ólafsfjörður, then through the new tunnel to Siglufjörður. Continue around the peninsula and on to the small town of Hofsós for a dip in the local pool. (B) (175km) Day 11 Skagafjörður to Snæfellsnes | Head to Snæfellsnes Peninsula and cross the Laxárdalsheiði heath to the Haukadalur valley to visit a replica of a Viking farm. (B) (260km) Day 12 Snæfellsnes Peninsula | Hike along the coast from Arnarstapi to Hellnar, stop for a break at the friendly coffee house Fjöruhúsið and drive around the tip of the peninsula. (B) (175km) Day 13 Snæfellsnes to Reykjavík | Drive to Reykjavík and spend the afternoon exploring the Icelandic capital. (B) (175km) Day 14 Fly to the UK | Return the car to Keflavík airport and fly to the UK. (B) (50km) Please note: km stated on each itinerary day = approximate driving distance covered that day

Holiday duration

14 days

Holiday type

Fly-Drive

Seasonality

Apr-Oct

Prices from

£1650 per person

Includes flights, accommodation and car hire (N-class VW Polo or similar) Upgrade to P-class Suzuki Grand Vitara from£285pp

Iceland Fly-Drives

Hunafjordur, Westfjords

Iceland Encompassed From Iceland’s westernmost tip at Látrabjarg to the fishing villages of the East Fjords, this all encompassing fly-drive holiday offers the opportunity to explore this diverse country in detail. Take time to hike through dramatic scenery and experience sights a little offthe-beaten-track whilst still making time for Iceland’s must see natural wonders including the incredible icebergs of Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon.

Suggested Itinerary Ask a Regent Iceland Specialist to tailor-make this itinerary Days 1-3 Reykjavík & the West | Arrive at Keflavík airport, drive to Reykjavík and explore the capital city. Travel to Snæfellsnes Peninsula and enjoy a coastal walk from Arnarstapi to Hellnar. Visit the charming fishing town Stykkishólmur and discover the majestic Snæfellsjökull glacier. Take the ferry across Breiðafjörður bay to reach Flókalundur on the south coast of the beautiful Westfjords and keep a look out for seabirds and puffins nesting in the cliffs. (B except day 1) (50km, 280km, 65km) Days 4-6 Westfjords | Continue to Ísafjörður via the Selárdalur Valley in Arnarfjörður. Visit Dynjandi waterfall and take a short hike or stop for a picnic. Whilst in the Ísafjörður area, why not take a boat trip to Vigur island, visit the Maritime Museum in Ósvör or enjoy coffee and cake at the Arctic Fox centre before continuing to Strandir by way of the Steingrímsfjarðarheiði mountain pass. (B) (300km, 0km, 225km)

Days 7-9 North Iceland | Leave the steep mountains and countless fjords behind and drive through open farmlands to Skagafjörður, an area well known for its horse breeding. Continue along the coastline of Tröllaskagi peninsula, stopping for a dip in the pool in Hofsós before travelling onward to the northern capital, Akureyri. From here, discover the incredible Goðafoss waterfall and the fishing town Húsavík. (B) (240km, 175km, 145km)

Days 10-12 Lake Mývatn & the East | Explore the Mývatn region, an area known for its spectacular geology and geothermal heat. Enjoy a leisurely hike among the pseudo craters at Stútustaðir and the rock formations at Dimmuborgir before relaxing in the Mývatn Nature Baths. Travel onwards to Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, and drive the Möðrudalsöræfi mountain road. Once in Egilsstaðir drive to Hengifoss and embark on a 2-3 hour walk to discover one of the highest falls in Iceland. (B) (80km, 165km, 260km)

Holiday duration

17 days

Holiday type

Fly-Drive

Seasonality

Apr-Oct

Prices from

£2120 per person

Includes flights, accommodation, ferry ticket and car hire (N-class VW Polo or similar) Upgrade to P-class Suzuki Grand Vitara from £325pp

Days 13-15 South Iceland | Admire floating icebergs or take an optional boat tour on the glacier-fed lake at Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon before travelling onwards to Skaftafell National Park. Continue west crossing the sand plains of Mýrdalsjökull glacier to Vík. Drive to the area of the Eyjafjallajökull 2010 eruption and on to Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls. Make time to visit Gullfoss, the Geysir geothermal area and Þingvellir National Park. (B) (140km, 235km, 210km) Days 16-17 Reykjavík to the UK | Spend a full day in the capital city and uncover a wealth of restaurants, cafés, museums and galleries. Take time to visit Nauthólsvík, Reykjavík’s geothermal beach and on the final day return the car to the airport and fly to the UK. (B) (150km, 50km) Please note: km stated on each itinerary day = approximate driving distance covered that day

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Family Fun at Gullfoss Waterfall

Iceland Family Encounter Travel at a relaxed pace and visit the classic attractions in the south and west whilst taking the time to enjoy optional activities or excursions along the way. Whether you’re relaxing on the geothermal beach in Reykjavík, horse riding in the beautiful countryside or just becoming captivated by Iceland’s own natural playground, this fun-packed flydrive holiday has been created with all the family in mind.

Suggested Itinerary Ask a Regent Iceland Specialist to tailor-make this itinerary Day 1 Fly to Reykjavík | Arrive at Keflavík airport and collect the hire car. Soak in the mineral-rich waters of the Blue Lagoon and take some time to explore the lunar landscape of the Reykjanes Peninsula before arriving in Reykjavík. (80km) Day 2 West Iceland | Drive to Borgarfjörður, the saga valley in the west. Visit the Hraunfossar series of waterfalls and continue to the holiday park in Húsafell to enjoy a round of mini golf or a swim. Embark upon an optional horse riding tour in the local area and/or a snowmobile ride on the Langjökull glacier. (B) (160km) Day 3 Southwest Iceland to Reykholt | Visit the Slakki Family Park and Farm Animal Zoo at Laugarás near Flúðir and uncover some of the must-see natural wonders on Iceland’s popular Golden Circle route. Visit Þingvellir National Park, the mighty Gullfoss waterfall and the Geysir geothermal area with Strokkur erupting plus admire the amazing colours of the volcanic crater, Kerið, before returning to Reykholt. (B) (340km)

Day 4 West Iceland | Discover the unique lava landscape at Bifröst, visit Glanni waterfall and find the path leading up to the Grábrók volcano crater – the views from the top are fantastic and well worth the short walk. (B) (80km)

Day 5 West Iceland | Explore the stunning Snæfellsnes Peninsula and discover the friendly and curious seals at Ytri-Tunga, a beautiful and serene cove which offers a fantastic view of the Snæfellsjökull glacier. Visit Stykkishólmur, a pretty fishing village, and take a boat trip on the Breiðafjörður fjord. (B) (230km) Day 6 Snæfellsnes Peninsula | Spend the day travelling around Snæfellsnes Peninsula and National Park. Stop at the Snæfellsjökull National Park Visitors’ Centre and take the nearby Ströndin trail, a stunning and easy walk from the bay at Hellnar all the way to Arnstapi. Take a drive around the tip of the peninsula and perhaps stop for coffee and cake at Hotel Búðir. (B) (250km) Day 7 Snæfellsnes Peninsula to Reykjavík | Drive back to the capital and, on a warm summer’s day, visit Nauthólsvík, Reykjavík’s fabulous geothermal golden-sand beach located on the edge of the city and enjoy a dip in the sea. Take a trip to the Family Fun Park, feed the ducks and swans in the city pond and try a delicious ice cream at the hilltop Perlan, whilst enjoying the vista from the viewing platform. (B) (200km) Day 8 Reykjavík to the UK | Return the car to the airport and fly back to the UK. (B) (50km) Please note: km stated on each itinerary day = approximate driving distance covered that day

Holiday duration

8 days

Holiday type

Fly-Drive

Seasonality

Apr-Oct

Prices from

£1240 per adult

Includes flights, accommodation and car hire (N-class VW Polo or similar) Upgrade to P-class Suzuki Grand Vitara from £155 per adult Cost per child under 12 £390 Cost per child 12-14 years £440

DRIVE ICELAND WITH AVIS Wide selection of cars Friendly and experienced staff Key locations throughout the country Environmental awareness We care for your safety We have the ideal vehicle selection to tackle Iceland´s terrain. Contact your Regent Iceland Specialist for our full range of 2WD and 4WD vehicles.

35 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Group Tours The Inside Story For those who like a holiday without hassle, our group tours are designed to take all the stress out of your journey. With someone else at the wheel, you can sit back and watch the incredible scenery go by, knowing that your day has been planned to include all the highlights along the way. With frequent stops en route, you’ll discover the history and geology of the ever-changing landscape with the help of your local guide, sharing incredible experiences along the way with a group of like-minded people. Depending on the escorted tour you choose, your group size will vary and you could be travelling by comfortable coach or a 4x4 especially modified for the Icelandic terrain. Our Iceland Specialists will discuss your plans with you and help you decide which tour is right for you. Whether you’re looking for a summer discovery of volcanoes and glaciers or a winter tour designed to maximise chances of seeing the northern lights, you’ll find a selection of our favourite group tours on the following pages. For our full range, as well as more detailed day-to-day itineraries, visit our website or call a Regent Iceland Specialist on 020 7666 1293.

Story to tell Shane Hosiene

Why I love group tours Travelling on a guided tour in Iceland is a bit like watching the best movie you’ll ever see. Around each turn, the widescreen windows reveal an epic panorama of wild steppe behind which rise immense glaciers and mighty volcanoes. Regular stops allow you to get to the heart of the action, whilst at the end of the day you can look forward to great food, convivial company and a comfortable bed.

Iceland Group Tours

Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon

Golden Circle Horse Riding Saddle up and discover the spectacular sights of Iceland’s famous Golden Circle on this popular tour, ideal for families and riders of all levels. Explore Þingvellir National Park, ride to the incredible Gullfoss waterfall, follow trails along river banks to breathtaking highland scenery and travel along tracks to Mt Galtafell during the beautiful summer months in Iceland.

South West Iceland Nature Whether you like photographing natural scenery, walking into the wilderness or relaxing in hot geothermal springs, this 11 day group tour combines them all in one unique holiday. From Snaefellsness peninsula to Vatnajokull National park, walk amongst rough lava fields, see boiling mud pots, cruise amongst icebergs and bathe in the hot geothermal waters of the Secret Lagoon.

Landmannalaugar Trek Hike along the Laugavegur trail to Þórsmörk glacier valley. Discover colourful Rhyolite mountains, rugged glaciers, bubbling hot springs, stunning rivers, impressive waterfalls and deep canyons in one of the last unspoiled wilderness areas in Europe. Admire diverse landscapes and enjoy panoramic views of the North Atlantic Ocean on this popular hiking route in the south Icelandic highlands.

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Gullfoss Waterfall

Iceland Complete Ideal for the first time visitor to Iceland, this classic circular tour brings together the natural wonders, majestic landscapes and unique character of the country. Enjoy stunning waterfalls, steaming hot springs, grandiose glaciers and icebergs, ancient lava formations, and dramatic coastlines teeming with wildlife, as well as traditional wooden villages and fascinating historical landmarks.

Departure Dates 2016 27 Apr 4, 11, 18, 23 & 25 May 6, 8, 13, 15, 20, 22, 27 & 29 Jun

4, 6, 13, 15, 18, 20, 25 & 27 Jul 1, 3, 8, 10, 17, 24 & 31 Aug 7, 14, 21 & 28 Sep

Ísafjördur

Itinerary Contact a Travel Specialist for more information and tour availability Day 1 Fly to Reykjavík | Arrive in Reykjavík and explore Iceland’s capital city at leisure. Day 2 Reykjavík to Vík | Travel to the impressive Gullfoss waterfall and the nearby Geysir geothermal area to discover hot springs, bubbling mud pools and the famous Strokkur geyser. Continue to Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls before reaching Dyrhólaey Nature Reserve* where in the spring months, puffins nest in their thousands. (B,D) *Please note that Dyrhólaey is closed during nesting season in spring, mid-May – end June.

Day 3 Vík to Höfn | Cross Eldhraun, the largest mass of lava ever to flow on Earth, and travel over Skeiðarársandur, a desert plain mainly made of volcanic sand, to Skaftafell National Park. Continue to Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon, and witness a maze of floating icebergs amidst a stunning, glacier-fed lake. (B,D) Day 4 Höfn to Egilsstaðir | Journey through the narrow mountain pass – Almannaskarð – and continue towards the towering mountains which plunge into the sea forming the magnificent East Fjords. (B,D)

Day 5 Egilsstaðir to Lake Mývatn | Explore the vast emptiness of the highland desert plateau, Möðrudalsöræfi, en route to Lake Mývatn, an area famed for its diverse species of duck and other birdlife. Discover peculiar lava formations at Dimmuborgir and pseudo craters at Skútustaðir. (B,D)

Day 6 Lake Mývatn to Akureyri | Travel to the magnificent Goðafoss Waterfall and the old farmhouse at Laufás before reaching Akureyri, a bustling town in the centre of North Iceland, close to many well known tourist destinations and natural wonders in the north. Spend time exploring Akureyri and its many attractions which include the Botanical Gardens, the old town and a range of shops, cafés and museums. (B) Day 7 Akureyri to Borgarnes | Travel to Skagafjörður, home of the unique Icelandic horse and witness a fantastic demonstration of this small but hardy breed. The Icelandic Horse has played a key role in the life of Icelanders and is the only breed of horse that exists in Iceland. Continue to Borgarnes. (B,D) Day 8 Borgarnes to Reykjavík | Visit Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring and travel to the Hraunfossar series of waterfalls before continuing over the breathtaking Kaldidalur Mountain Pass. Journey to Þingvallavatn, Iceland’s largest lake, and Þingvellir National Park, the ancient site of the world’s first outdoor parliament. (B) Day 9 Reykjavík to the UK | Bathe in the famous Blue Lagoon before transferring to the airport for the flight back to the UK. Soaking in the bright blue geothermal waters, famed for their rejuvenating qualities, is the perfect finale to the tour. (B)

Akureyri Mývatn Stykkishólmur

Egilsstadir

Reykjavik Hofn Kirkjubæjarklaustur Vestmanneyjar

Vík

Tour duration

9 days

Holiday type

Group Tour Fully Guided

Seasonality

Apr-Sep

Group size

Max 36

Prices from

£1655 per person

Includes flights, accommodation, transfers, travel by coach and sightseeing tours

Iceland Group Tours

Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon

Volcanoes & Glaciers Experience Iceland’s active volcanoes, vast glaciers and the magnificent natural environment which surrounds them on this popular group tour. Discover icebergs, hot springs and bubbling mud pools in one of the most geologically active areas in the world, and learn how Mother Nature and the elements have shaped the landscape of the country today.

Itinerary Contact a Travel Specialist for more information and tour availability Day 1 Fly to Reykjavík | Arrive at Keflavík airport and transfer to Reykjavík. Wander around Iceland’s cultural capital which boasts dozens of fine restaurants, bars, museums and galleries. Day 2 Reykjavík to Westman Islands | Depart Reykjavik and travel along the south coast to Landeyjarhöfn harbour and then on to the pier at Bakkafjara. Board the ferry to Vestmannaeyjar (the Westman Islands), one of Iceland’s most distinctive locations and home to an abundance of wildlife, particularly birds. Explore the extraordinary volcanic landscape of Heimaey, the largest island in the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago and the most populated island off the Icelandic coast. Visit the puffins in windy Stórhöfði, enjoy fantastic views from the top of the ridge, walk up to the crater of a recently erupted volcano and explore the flora of a new lava field. (B,D) Day 3 Westman Islands to Vik | Take the ferry back from the Westman Islands and travel further on through fertile farmland and glacial rivers before reaching the spectacular Skógar and Skógafoss waterfalls. Visit the farmers of Þorvaldseyri Farm and the visitor’s centre at the foot of the Eyjafjallajökull volcano, which famously erupted in the spring of 2010. The centre includes an interesting exhibition of film and photographs of the volcanic eruption. Explore the Skogar Folk Museum to discover

a fascinating collection of historical Icelandic treasures and continue on to the frozen glacial tongue of Sólheimajökull. (B,D) Day 4 Skaftafell National Park | Visit Skaftafell National Park, one of Iceland’s most outstanding areas of natural beauty. The area is dominated by incredible views of mighty Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier; the park’s rugged landscape, towering mountains and flora and fauna make it a popular attraction in the south. Continue to Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon where huge icebergs float and grind together in the deep waters. Return to Vík for a stroll along the black sandy beach. (B,D) Day 5 Laugarvatn/Hvergerði to Reykjavík | Depart for the Geysir geothermal fields and view steaming hot springs, bubbling mud pools and the famous Strokkur geyser, a hot spring that spouts every few minutes. Continue to one of Iceland’s most impressive waterfalls, Gullfoss, before reaching the popular Þingvellir National Park, where the ancient parliament met for centuries on the shores of Iceland’s largest natural lake, Þingvallavatn. (B)

Departure Dates 2016 1, 8, 15 & 22 May 5, 12 & 26 Jun 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31 Jul 7 & 14 Aug 4, 11, 18 & 25 Sep

Ísafjördur Akureyri Mývatn Stykkishólmur

Egilsstadir

Reykjavik Hofn Kirkjubæjarklaustur Vestmanneyjar

Vík

Tour duration

6 days

Holiday type

Group Tour Fully Guided

Seasonality

May-Sep

Group size

Max 32

Prices from

£1225 per person

Includes flights, accommodation, transfers, travel by coach and sightseeing tours

Day 6 Reykjavík to the UK | Enjoy a relaxing and unique bathing experience in the warm, mineral-rich waters of the Blue Lagoon. Transfer to the airport for the flight back to the UK. (B)

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Landmannalaugar Mountainscape

Across the Wilderness Combine Iceland’s traditional scenic routes with the uninhabited volcanic highlands on this small group adventure tour. From the lurching icebergs of Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon in the south, embark on a journey in specially modified vehicles through a dramatic wilderness where the deep valleys and sculpted mountains were formed in Ice Age eruptions.

Departure Dates 2016 23 & 30 Jun 7, 14, 21 & 28 Jul 4, 6, 11, 18, 20 & 25 Aug 1 Sep

Ísafjördur

Itinerary Contact a Travel Specialist for more information and tour availability Day 1 Fly to Reykjavík | Arrive at Keflavík airport, transfer to Reykjavík and explore Iceland’s capital. Day 2 Reykjavík to Hvolsvöllur | Visit Þingvellir National Park, the ancient site of the world’s first outdoor parliament before travelling to the Geysir geothermal area to watch the famous Strokkur geyser erupting alongside boiling mud pools and hot springs. (B,D) Day 3 Hvolsvöllur to Kirkjubæjarklaustur | Visit the picturesque waterfalls of Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss, before reaching Dyrhólaey Nature Reserve*, a small headland where in the spring months puffins nest in their thousands. (B,D) *Please note that Dyrhólaey is closed during nesting season in spring, mid-May – end June.

Day 4 Skaftafell National Park | Discover Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull and travel around the ice covered Öræfajökull volcano, the largest volcano in Iceland and home to the country’s highest peak, Hvannadalshnúkur. (B,D) Day 5 Kirkjubæjarklaustur to Hella | Continue to Landmannalaugar, a magnificent area in Iceland’s highlands. Discover deep valleys and mossy mountains, many of which have been formed in volcanic eruptions under Ice Age caps. (B,D)

Day 6 Hella to Lake Mývatn | Explore the vast and desolate wilderness of the Sprengisandur highland route. (B,D)

Day 7 Lake Mývatn | Travel around the Tjörnes peninsula. Discover the serene horseshoe-shaped canyon of Ásbyrgi National Park and visit Dettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in Europe, before stopping at Lake Mývatn, a paradise for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers. (B,D) Day 8 Lake Mývatn to Hvammstangi | Admire the spectacular Goðafoss Waterfall en route to Akureyri. Boasting shops, cafés and museums as well as a cathedral it’s easy to understand why Akureyri has been labelled the ‘capital of the North’. (B,D) Day 9 Hvammstangi to Snæfellsnes Peninsula | Journey through rolling farmlands and across Laxardalsheidi heath to the Viking farmstead at Eiríksstaðir – the original home of the famous explorers, Erik the Red and his son Leif Eiríksson. (B,D) Day 10 Snæfellsjökull National Park | Circle around the legendary Snæfellsjökull Glacier and journey to the expansive black sea shore of Djúpalónssandur. Stop at the picturesque harbour village of Arnarstapi with its magnificent basalt rock formations before travelling back to the capital. (B) Day 11 Reykjavík to the UK | Enjoy a truly invigorating experience at the famous Blue Lagoon before transferring to the airport for the flight back to the UK. (B)

Akureyri Mývatn Stykkishólmur

Egilsstadir

Reykjavik Hofn Kirkjubæjarklaustur Vestmanneyjar

Vík

Tour duration

11 days

Holiday type

Group Tour Fully Guided

Seasonality

Jun-Sep

Group size

Max 19

Prices from

£2655 per person

Includes flights, accommodation, transfers, travel by modified coach and sightseeing tours

Iceland Group Tours

Lake Mývatn

Grand Tour of Iceland Embark on an unforgettable journey around Iceland including Snæfellsnes peninsula and the breathtaking West Fjords. Journey full circle around Iceland, stopping in small fishing villages characterised by colourful houses and beautiful bays. Experience the spectacular splendour and untamed beauty of Iceland´s nature, breathtaking scenery and unique Icelandic history and culture.

Departure Dates 2016 1, 15 & 29 Jun 13 & 27 Jul 10 & 24 Aug

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Iceland Specialist for more details Day 1 Fly to Reykjavik | Arrive in Keflavik airport and transfer to Reykjavik.

breed. Drive to Akureyri, Iceland’s second largest city and the capital of the north. (B)

Day 2 Golden Circle | Explore the famous Golden Circle, including Gulfoss waterfall, Stokkur Geysir and the UNESCO listed Þingvellir National Park. Drive past Hvalfjörður fjord to reach Borgarfjörður, West Iceland. (B,D)

Day 7 Lake Mývatn | Explore Goðafoss waterfall and continue to Lake Mývatn – an area known for its rich birdlife and volcanic landscapes. Visit pseudo craters, walk in Dimmuborgir lava field, climb to the rim of Hverfjall ash crater, watch the bubbling mud pools and hot springs of Námaskarð and travel to Víti Crater Lake. Spend the afternoon soaking in the Mývatn Nature Baths. (B,D)

Day 3 Snæfellsnes Peninsula | Travel to the small settlement of Borganes and drive to the 700,000 year old stratovolcano, Snæfellsjökull in Snæfellsnes National Park. Explore the park’s volcanic craters, lava flows, ice cap, fjords and high cliffs with the chance to head 35 metres underground into Vatnshellir lava cave. Spend the night in the pretty fishing village of Grundarfjörður. (B,D) Day 4 Látrabjarg | Catch the ferry to Brjánslækur and visit the folk and transport museum in Hnjótur. Continue to the westernmost point of Europe, Látrabjarg and walk along the highest bird cliffs in Iceland to spot the thousands of birds that flock here including the puffin. (B,D) Day 5 West Fjords | Travel to Arnarfjörður and marvel at Dynjandi waterfall. Drive over beautiful mountain passes, sheer cliffs and along the southern shores of the west fjords to reach the remote Vogur Country Lodge. (B,D) Day 6 West Fjords to Akureyri | Visit Haukadalur Viking Museum and continue north to enjoy a visit to a local farm to learn about the unique qualities of Iceland’s special

Day 8 East Iceland | Marvel at Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall and explore Borgarfjörður Eystri fjord. Visit a small Icelandic fishing village that still relies on small boat fishing as a livelihood, and admire artwork from famous Icelandic painters in the local art gallery. (B,D) Day 9 East Fjords | Admire the fishing villages of the East Fjords as well as visiting the mighty Vatnajökull – Europe’s biggest glacier. Cruise through the floating icebergs in Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon and spend the night on the southern part of Vatnajökull National Park. (B,D)

Tour duration

11 days

Holiday type

Group Tour Fully Guided

Seasonality

Jun-Aug

Group size

Max 20

Prices from

£3085 per person

Includes flights, accommodation, transfers, travel by coach and sightseeing tours.

Day 10 Vatnajökull National Park to Reykjavik | Marvel at Iceland’s highest mountain, Hvannadalshnjúkur and drive along the south coast’s black sand beaches to Eyjafjallajökull Information Centre. Admire Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls before enjoying a farewell dinner in Reykjavik. (B,D) Day 11 Reykjavik to UK | Transfer to the airport for your flight back to the UK. (B)

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Greenland Straddling the Arctic Circle, Greenland is the world’s largest island, with inland ice covering 85% of the country. Starkly beautiful, with magnificent glaciers and an undulating icy expanse as far as the eye can see, this vast island is the homeland of the largest Inuit population in the world. With their fantastic ability to adapt to the severe climatic conditions and wild nature, they have survived where others found it impossible to live.

Towns and villages are linked only by sea or air, so travel like a local and take a dog sledge journey through the Kangerlussuaq wilderness, or head out into the Arctic waters by boat and cruise between fjords, mountains, islands and icebergs, keeping an eye out for whales and seals. Our Greenland Travel Specialists can tailor-make your very own Arctic adventure, including ice fjord cruising and scenic flights, whale watching, kayaking, hiking, dog sledging and even visiting a local home to gain an insight into life in the least densely populated country in the world.

Greenland TRAVEL KNOWHOW Flight time from UK: 5 hours (+1 stop) Time zone: GMT -3 Capital: Nuuk Language: Greenlandic Currency: Danish Krone Population: Approx. 57, 600 GREENLAND IN NUMBERS

85 90 100 3 3,500 46 Percent of Greenland is covered by an icesheet

Miles (150km) of road in Greenland

Height Icebergs can reach in Greenland (m)

Thickness the ice sheet can reach (km)

Number of Sled dogs in Ilulissat

Cubic kilometres of iceberg are created annually by Sermaq Kujalleq glacier

For our full range of itineraries & group tours, visit our website or speak to a specialist on 020 7666 1293.

South Greenland The Inside Story Renowned for its agriculture and unique flora, during the summer months South Greenland fully lives up to its Danish name of “Green Land”. Yet, according to the sagas, it was actually Eric the Red who first gave the country this name, and the remains of the churches and farms which date back to those original Norse settlements bring history to life on the landscapes of the South. However, like the rest of the country it is the Arctic conditions which really make the region’s land and seascapes so remarkable. The large ice floes are a highlight; formed in the seas north of the country, the ice travels down the coast and up into South Greenland’s picturesque bays and fjords. These enormous sheets of frozen water can be up to three metres thick and often bring visiting seals into the local waters. There are no roads in South Greenland and the settlements of Narsarsuaq, Qaqortoq and Narsaq are only accessible by boat or helicopter. Choose a short southern adventure and spend two days exploring the Viking ruins and calving glaciers of Narsarsuaq, or opt for an in-depth exploration combining all three and perhaps take time to relax in the Uunartoq hot springs as icebergs float past in the fjord.

Story to tell Shane Hosiene

Why I love South Greenland Travelling up the coast of Greenland on the ferry from Qaqortoq is not just an extraordinarily beautiful journey, but is often the only way for locals to travel between different settlements and is a focal point of village life. Dozens of inhabitants greet the ferry at each port of call, and the whole range of human emotions can be witnessed as their loved ones come and go. It’s so much more than just a cruise.

South Greenland

Regent Recommends Hike

Watch

South Greenland is ideal for those who like to explore the great outdoors on foot. From Qaqortoq take a guided hike around Lake Storesoen and admire magnificent mountain scenery, from Narsaq walk along the Dyrnaes Peninsula where remains of both Viking and ancient Inuit cultures can be found, and from Narsarsuaq take an extraordinary hike to the inland ice cap. This incredible trek takes a route through the colourful subarctic flora of Flower Valley to the top of a 1,000 foot mountain for a picnic lunch with astounding views over the glacier and ice cap. Take a walk down to touch the second largest ice body in the world. Ask a Regent Greenland Specialist to prebook your guided hiking excursions.

There is no shortage of unique experiences to be had in the South. To get a true sense of the scale of Greenland’s abundant icebergs, choose a kayaking excursion from Narsarsuaq. Travel to the tiny settlement of Tasiusaq, where just seven people live in almost complete isolation, and get up close to these icy giants on a two hour kayaking tour of the bay. Or perhaps choose to uncover Greenland’s history on a tour to Eric the Red’s Viking ruins. Cross Eric’s Fjord by boat and go ashore at Qassiarsuk settlement where Eric the Red’s fleet of 14 Viking ships landed in 985. Visit the ruins of Eric’s farm and Thorhildur’s Church, the first Christian church on the American continent.

Although filmed in the small North West settlement of Niaqornat, the 2013 film Village at the End of the World tells a tale of everyday life in Greenland which can be felt in isolated villages and towns all over the South. Charting the efforts of four of the 59 residents, the fly-on-the-wall documentary explores the issues of cultural and environmental change in a modern world where the younger generation are leaving traditions and home behind. Reflecting the dilemmas of small communities all over the world, Village at the End of the World just happens to have been filmed in one of the most remote and beautiful spots on Earth. A recommended pre-holiday watch. Regent Rating 4/5.

45 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Greenland Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Visit Tasiusaq Village by Boat from Narsarsuaq

Explore South Greenland Explore South Greenland in depth on this week-long summer tour. Travel between settlements by boat and tailor-make the holiday with optional excursions to suit your interests. Be awed at the scale of the inland ice cap, cruise between intricate fjord systems where whales swim in the ice-strewn waters or opt for an active holiday with dramatic hiking and kayaking experiences.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Greenland Specialist for more details Day 1 Reykjavík to Narsarsuaq | Fly to the small town of Narsarsuaq and transfer to the pier for the boat journey across Eric’s Fjord to Narsaq. On arrival meet the local guide and transfer to the hotel for three nights. After a brief welcome meeting enjoy a city walk. Days 2 & 3 Narsaq | Narsaq is the most striking agricultural town in Greenland, situated in a fjord system renowned for hiking and minerals. A day trip over the mountain to Qassiarsuk provides classic South Greenlandic vistas of sheep farms, green river valleys, raw mountains and ice-filled fjords. Spend a free day exploring the local landscape or pre-book optional excursions – take a boat trip across the ice-filled Bredefjord to the impressive Twin Glaciers or enjoy a leisurely hike along the Dyrnaes Peninsula and admire untouched Viking ruins with a stunning backdrop. (B) Day 4 Narsaq to Qaqortoq | Transfer to the pier, take a boat to Qaqortoq and check in at the hotel for two nights. Meet the local guide for a walk around the settlement. (B)

Day 5 Qaqortoq | With a population of over 3,000 residents, Qaqortoq is the most populous town in southern Greenland. The town rises steeply up from the fjord system, and the surrounding hilltops provide incredible views across the mountains and out to the pack ice at sea. Spend two free days at leisure, or ask a Regent Greenland Specialist to

pre-book optional excursions. Perhaps opt for a 12km hike around nearby Lake Storesoen, enjoy a boat trip to the inland ice cap, take a short cruise to Hvalsey Fjord to visit the old Norse ruins or choose to learn about local life with a visit to a family home for coffee and cake. Regent highly recommends a boat excursion to the Uunartoq hot springs where icebergs float past in the fjord as you relax in the 38°C natural pool. (B) Day 6 Qaqortoq to Narsarsuaq | Transfer to Narsaq harbour and return to Narsarsuaq by boat for two nights. Meet the local guide for a brief welcome meeting and guided walking tour of the settlement. (B) Day 7 Narsarsuaq | Located just 6km from the inland ice cap, the mighty nature that surrounds Narsarsuaq begs to be explored. Perhaps make use of a free day to hike or travel by boat to the inland ice cap, or to kayak among the turquoise icebergs. Norse ruins from the 10th – 15th centuries dot the hills surrounding Narsarsuaq and an excursion by boat across Eric’s Fjord to Brattahlið to visit the ruins of Eric the Red’s Viking settlement is highly recommended. It’s also possible to take a boat tour to Igaliku, a beautiful village where the ruins of the Vikings’ Cathedral and the Bishop’s farm can be found. (B) Day 8 Narsarsuaq to Reykjavík | Transfer to the airport for the flight back to Reykjavík. (B)

Holiday duration

8 days

Holiday type

Tailor-made Guided excursions

Seasonality

Jul-Aug

Prices from

£1825 per person

Includes flights from Reykjavík, accommodation, transfers & sightseeing tours.

South Greenland

MV Sarfaq Ittuk

Greenland Coastal Voyage Greenlanders depend on the coastal ferry, the MV Sarfaq Ittuk, to travel between towns and settlements from the rugged Arctic landscape of the west coast to the green and fertile south. Travel with the locals on this incredible coastal voyage, admiring remarkable iceberg-filled panoramas, stopping in small colourful villages and watching out for playful whales in the surrounding waters.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Greenland Specialist for more details Day 1 Reykjavík to Ilulissat | Fly from Iceland to Ilulissat on the west coast of Greenland. Learn about the history of this beautiful town and discover the bustling harbour, old church and colourful buildings on a guided walking tour before attending a welcome meeting and dinner at Hotel Arctic. (D) Days 2 & 3 Ilulissat | Enjoy a free day to explore Ilulissat or pre-book an excursion; perhaps take a scenic helicopter flight over the glacier, embark on a boat tour to the small settlement of Rodebay, enjoy a midnight cruise to the Ice Fjord or visit a Greenlandic home to enjoy lunch with a local family. (DAY 2 - B), (DAY 3 - B,D) Day 4 Ilulissat & Coastal Voyage | If time permits, perhaps take a stroll to catch a glimpse of the towering icebergs surrounding the town before boarding the MV Sarfaq Ittuk and cruising to Aasiaat. This section of the voyage provides the best opportunity to see humpback whales. (B) Day 5 Coastal Voyage to Maniitsoq | Leave the Disko Bay area and head south along the west coast of Greenland to Sisimiut. While in port, enjoy a guided tour of the town, famous for its colourful wooden houses against a backdrop of rugged Kaellingehaetten Mountain. Continue sailing past the Arctic Circle to Maniitsoq, home to an abundance of bird colonies. Day 6 Coastal Voyage to Nuuk | Sail along the west coast to the capital city, Nuuk, and

discover a wonderful blend of old tradition and modern day life. Half a day in port allows plenty of time for a guided tour to explore the city with its colonial harbour, National Museum, Art Museum and Cultural Centre. Continue south to Qeqertarsuatsiaat. Day 7 Coastal Voyage to Narsaq | Enter green and fertile South Greenland cruising to Paamiut. In the evening stop in Narsaq, centrally located on a plain in the Tunulliarfik Fjord, where icebergs are present nearly all year round. Check in to the hotel and enjoy the sight of the town glowing under the midnight sun. Day 8 Narsaq | Enjoy a tour of Narsaq this morning and why not book an optional excursion to the ice-filled Bredefjord – a fjord system northwest of Narsaq that leads to the impressive Twin Glaciers. (B)

Tour duration

10 days

Holiday type

Tailor-made Guided excursions

Seasonality

Jun-Aug

Prices from

£3235 per person

Includes flights from Reykjavík, accommodation, transfers and sightseeing tours

Day 9 Narsaq | Pre-book optional excursions to get the most out of this free day in Narsaq. Regent recommends a leisurely guided hike to a non-excavated Viking ruin. See remains from the Inuit as well and admire the beautiful Arctic scenery. (B) Day 10 Narsaq to Reykjavík | Journey by boat through Eric’s Fjord – named after famous Viking Eric the Red – to Qassiarsuk to enjoy a tour of Erik the Red’s farm before continuing on to Narsarsuaq for the flight back to Reykjavík. (B)

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Greenland Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

West Greenland The Inside Story Around half of Greenland’s 56,000 inhabitants live in the larger settlements along the country’s scenic west coast, including Nuuk, which proudly claims to be the world’s smallest capital city. Stop here on the Sarfaq Ittuk coastal ferry and explore the National Museum of Greenland for an insight into early Inuit culture. The majority of visitors to the West opt to travel north of the Arctic Circle, where the seascapes are at their most dramatic. The only UNESCO-protected site in Greenland, Ilulissat boasts the biggest ice stream outside of Antarctica – Sermeq Kujalleq glacier is more than 3,000 square kilometres and calves around 40 cubic kilometres of ice every year, decorating the seas with gigantic icebergs as tall as skyscrapers. Regent recommends a boat tour of the incredible ice fjord to fully appreciate the sheer scale of these floating ice sculptures. Musk oxen, reindeer, arctic foxes, seals and walruses are all common wildlife sightings in Greenland, and the West is renowned for migratory whales. Join a whale watching excursion in Disko Bay and search for fin whales, humpbacks and minke whales in the West’s icy waters. Our Greenland Travel Specialists can recommend and book excursions to suit you on your West Greenland adventure.

Story to tell Shane Hosiene

Why I love West Greenland Watching the magnificent ice fjord turn to gold under the midnight sun from Ilulissat’s Hotel Arctic, it’s hard to think of a better room with a view anywhere on Earth, but this is merely the tip of the iceberg. Taking a walk to the edge of the fjord to gaze in awe at the immense, 70km long glacier – with its enormous calving icebergs towering above you – makes you feel very insignificant indeed.

West Greenland

Regent Recommends Stay

Don’t

Situated right on the edge of the Ilulissat ice fjord with stunning panoramic views, Hotel Arctic is the world’s most northerly 4-star hotel. With a wide range of room types from Standard to Suite, the 85-room hotel also offers the opportunity to stay in an igloo-hut right on the edge of the ice fjord. From May to September, these five shiny domes provide guests with a close-to-nature experience that’s hard to beat. Eat at the hotel’s Restaurant Ulo for a gastronomic dining experience where fresh, contemporary dishes can be enjoyed whilst icebergs drift past, or head to chic Café Ferdinand to try the local Ferdinand beer, spiced with Labrador tea from the surrounding fields.

Excursions to discover the dramatic scenery surrounding Ilulissat are plentiful, whether you choose to explore by land, sea or air. Perhaps enjoy a leisurely guided walk alongside the Ice Fjord to Sermermiut, travel by boat to the small Inuit settlement of Rodebay for lunch at the old trading station, cruise in front of calving Eqi glacier or, at the height of summer, take an Ice Fjord midnight sun cruise and see the warm colours reflecting in the giant icebergs. For those with a head for heights, choose a scenic flight at low altitude to the very end of the Ice Fjord, cruising above the glacier front and towards the underwater moraine. A window seat is guaranteed for the best photo opportunities.

In Greenland you might be lucky enough to see humpback, fin, minke and sperm whales. Sadly you may also see many of these species on restaurant menus, especially in dishes called ‘A Taste of Greenland’. All species of large whale are globally protected by the International Whaling Commission, but it makes an exception for certain subsistence hunts by indigenous peoples. Sales of whale meat to tourists have had a negative impact on those indigenous people who need it for their survival. Regent Holidays supports Whale and Dolphin Conservation’s campaign to urge tourists not to eat whale meat while on holiday in Greenland. For more information visit uk.whales.org.

Whales in Greenland The seas around Greenland are teeming with whales and around fifteen species of whale are regular visitors to Greenlandic waters, however in the summer months the Humpback whale, Minke whale and Fin whale are most likely to be seen. Spot the acrobatic Humpback whale from April to November as they hunt for fish, squid and krill. Minke whales can be seen in south and west Greenland from May to October and the mighty Fin whale can be seen in West Greenland around Uummannaq, Qaqortoq and Disko Bay. www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Greenland Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Eqi Glacier, Greenland

From Fire to Ice A perfect introduction to the Arctic Circle, this tour combines some of the most spectacular sights on the famous Golden Circle route in Iceland with the vast splendours of Greenland. Although close in distance, the landscape and cultures of these two remote islands differ greatly. With easy, direct access between the two, they form a compelling combination filled with dramatic wonders.

Itinerary Contact a Travel Specialist for more information and tour availability Day 1 Fly to Reykjavík | Arrive at Keflavík airport and transfer to Reykjavík. Enjoy some free time to explore Iceland’s capital. Day 2 Reykjavík | Enjoy a city sightseeing tour of Reykjavík. Explore the old town centre, the harbour and the incredible Perlan, a unique and magnificent structure located on Öskjuhlíð hill offering panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. Travel to the Reykjanes Peninsula, a geothermal field with hot springs, steaming vents and mud pots, before relaxing in the warm, mineral rich waters of the famous Blue Lagoon. (Entrance fee not included.) (B,D) Day 3 Reykjavík to Selfoss | Travel to Iceland’s greatest historical site, Þingvellir National Park, and walk down the rift valley caused by the separating North America and Eurasian tectonic plates. Explore the Geysir geothermal area, home to Strokkur geyser and many other hot springs. Continue to Gullfoss, one of the most impressive waterfalls in Europe, and visit a horse breeding farm to learn about the unique qualities of the Icelandic horse. (B,D)

Day 4 Selfoss | Journey to the valley of the Saga Age farms, Þjórsárdalur, an area greatly affected by the 1104 eruption of Iceland´s most famous volcano, Mt. Hekla. Continue through the valley to the dramatic scenery and untouched wilderness of the highlands. Bathe in the natural warm pools in Landmannalaugar. (B,D)

Day 5 Selfoss to Ilulissat | Fly to Greenland. Arrive in the picturesque town of Ilulissat and enjoy a walking tour of the town centre and discover the bustling harbour. Situated at the mouth of a 60km-long ice fjord, huge icebergs watch over the town. (B,D) Day 6 Ilulissat | Sail to the very edge of Eqi glacier, one of the most active glaciers in Greenland which juts out from a fjord in Disko Bay, 70km north of Ilulissat. Enjoy lunch on board in this very special, remote location and witness large chunks of heavy ice break off the glacier and crash intensely into the water. (B,L) Day 7 Ilulissat | Hike to the remains of the old settlement Sermermiut and listen to the tale of the life and customs of the Greenlanders before European settlers arrived, whilst enjoying incredible views of the icebergs in the fjord. The afternoon is free to spend at leisure or book optional excursions. (B,D) Day 8 Ilulissat to Reykjavík | Spend the morning at leisure and enjoy the vistas of beautiful icebergs in the fjord or complete any final shopping for tupilaks or other handcrafted souvenirs before the flight back to Reykjavík. (B) Day 9 Reykjavík to the UK | Transfer to Keflavík International Airport for the flight back to the UK. (B)

Departure Dates 2016 21 Jun 5, 12 & 19 Jul 2 & 9 Aug

Ísafjördur Akureyri Mývatn Stykkishólmur Disko Island

Eqi Glacier

Reykjavik

Rodebay Ilulissat

Vestmanneyjar

Vík

Tour duration

9 days

Holiday type

Group Tour Fully Guided

Seasonality

Jun-Aug

Group size

Max 12

Prices from

£3799 per person

Includes flights, accommodation, transfers, travel by coach and sightseeing tours

West Greenland

Midnight Sun in Ilulissat

Ilulissat Summer Break Known as the Town of Icebergs, discover spectacular Ilulissat on this short West Greenland break – the perfect add-on to any Iceland holiday. In the summer months spend four nights under the midnight sun, while during the winter months, Ilulissat’s location 200 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle means that chances of seeing the northern lights are excellent.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Greenland Specialist for more details Day 1 Reykjavík to Ilulissat | Fly to Ilulissat from Reykjavik Domestic Airport and transfer to the 4-star Hotel Arctic for four nights. Attend a welcome meeting before enjoying a walking tour of the town which is watched over by towering icebergs. (D) Day 2 Boat trip to Hunter’s Settlement | Travel by boat to the small Inuit settlement of Oqaitsut, also known as Rodebay. This isolated village has a local population of around 40 people who are totally dependent on fishing and hunting. Enjoy a guided walk including lunch at the old trading station before returning to Ilulissat. (B,L) Day 3 Guided Walk to Sermermiut & Midnight Sun Boat trip | The beautiful icebergs of Ilulissat provide the backdrop to the abandoned settlement Sermermiut. Inuit cultures have inhabited this area for over 4,000 years, and today traces can still be found from the three old Inuit cultures. Enjoy a 1.5 kilometre walk along UNESCO designated Ice Fjord to Sermermiut, and hear stories of life before the Europeans’ arrival. Take an evening cruise under the midnight sun, where the warm red colours reflecting in the gigantic icebergs are a fantastic sight. Cruise between the icebergs and listen as the experienced guides recount stories about icebergs and life at sea. These tours include light refreshments. (B)

Day 4 Ilulissat | Formed by one of the most productive glaciers in the world, Ilulissat’s giant icebergs create ear-splitting roars as they calve and crash into the sea. Choose from optional summer excursions to explore the incredible ice fjord by sea or air – take an 8 hour boat trip and cruise in front of the Eqi glacier for around one hour, hoping to witness the unique sight of an iceberg delivery or perhaps take a helicopter flight over the mountains and fjord systems. (B,D) Day 5 Ilulissat to Reykjavík | Transfer to the airport for the flight back to Reykjavík. (B)

Tour duration

5 days

Holiday type

Tailor-made Guided excursions

Seasonality

Jun-Sep

Prices from

£1815 per person

Includes flights from Reykjavík, accommodation, transfers and guided excursions Please note that the order of excursions may change subject to local conditions.

51 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Greenland Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Faroe Islands

Hidden between Iceland and Norway in the heart of the North Atlantic’s swift current, the unexplored archipelago of the Faroe Islands can be found. Visitors prepared to take on the unpredictable weather are rewarded with truly unspoilt dramatic landscapes, where springy verdant green pastures mown by shaggy sheep tumble towards wave-battered cliff faces and winding walking trails snake over the headlands. A keen birdwatcher’s paradise, the Faroes teem with iconic native birdlife from Atlantic puffin colonies that breed on the island of Mykines to the screeching guillemots and the crimson red beak of the Eurasian Oystercatcher, the national bird of the Faroe Islands. Explore the lanes of Tórshavn, one of the world’s smallest capital cities, visit small historic fishing villages and head out into the rural hills, peppered with colourful traditional Nordic homes, complete with grass roofs.

Faroe Islands TRAVEL KNOWHOW Flight time from UK: 1½ hours from Edinburgh Time zone: Same as UK Capital: Tórshavn Language: Faroese, Danish Currency: Faroese Króna, Danish Krone Population: Approx 46,469 FAROE ISLANDS IN NUMBERS

18 77 3 10 5 1909 Individual islands

Nationalities

Traffic lights on the Faroe Islands

Times more puffins than humans

Never further than 5 kilometres from the ocean on all islands

Year Mykines Lighthouse was built

For our full range of itineraries & group tours, visit our website or speak to a specialist on 020 7666 1293.

Faroe Islands The Inside Story Hidden between Iceland and Norway in the heart of the North Atlantic’s swift current are the Faroe Islands, an unexplored archipelago offering unspoilt landscapes, exceptionally fresh air and some of the most unpredictable weather in the world. The Gulf Stream encompassing the islands moderates the climate and although summers are not stifling, the temperature in the winter months never drops below 3°C. These remote islands are jam-packed with stunning scenery, walking trails and a unique architectural heritage. Providing the perfect nesting environment for migrating birds, the cliffs on the northern and western coasts act like a magnet in the summer months to species including puffins, storm petrels, gannets and guillemots. On the largest of the islands, Streymoy you’ll find one of the world’s smallest capitals, Tórshavn, which bursts into life with cultural and music events from June to August. Travel a couple of hours south from the capital by ferry and discover Suðuroy, often described as the most beautiful of all the islands. With dramatic bird cliffs on its west coast and rural countryside in the east, the scenery here is simply breathtaking. Why not combine your visit to the Faroe Islands with Denmark’s bustling capital, Copenhagen. Speak to a Regent Specialist for details.

Story to tell Mike Voss

Why I love the Faroe Islands When you first catch sight of these dramatic islands as the ‘plane tips its wings on the approach to Vagar, you know that you are in for an incredible experience. I love standing at the top of the amazing sea cliffs, or pottering around in a boat at the bottom, looking for nesting puffins or the slightly clumsier guillemots, before experiencing the locals’ hospitality – everyone seems to know everyone!

Faroe Islands

Regent Recommends Eat

Visit

Stay

For the finest meal in the Faroe Islands, we suggest dining at KOKS, the restaurant at Hotel Føroyar which offers some of the best seafood in the world. Sourcing produce from its Nordic neighbours as well as using locally grown and reared ingredients such as hill raised lamb and freshly caught fish, guests can choose between 4, 6 or 8 courses from an interesting and creative menu and enjoy the best vista in the city. For a meal in the centre of the capital, head to Hotel Hafnia, home of the famous Faroese Fish Buffet which takes place throughout the summer months. Eat as much as you can and relax in the warm atmosphere a stone’s throw from the harbourside.

Travel to the small village of Kirkjubøur on the island of Streymoy and discover historical buildings left behind after a severe storm in the 16th century. Hidden behind the 12th century Saint Olav’s Church, the oldest church still in use in the Faroe Islands, lie the ruins of Magnus Cathedral. Built in 1300, this beautiful medieval building has never been completed and to this day remains unfinished. Kirkjubøur is also home to a Roykstovan, a turf roofed farmhouse, more than 900 years old. In the summer months the door is always open to visitors, so step inside and explore this fascinating home which has been occupied by 17 generations of the same Faroese family.

Less than an hour away from the capital, on the northeast tip of Eysturoy is the popular grass roofed Gjáargarður Guesthouse of Gjógv. It’s here that visitors can experience the remote beauty of the Faroe Islands and enjoy a peaceful break in captivating surroundings. This warm and inviting guesthouse hosts a cultural evening each week where guests can enjoy a delicious buffet and traditional Faroese chain dancing. With 11 standard rooms and 12 superior rooms offering fantastic views across to the island of Kalsoy, the guesthouse is perfectly situated to explore the nearby northern islands and for the more adventurous climb Slættaratindur – the highest mountain in the Faroes.

55 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Faroe Islands Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Shingle Beach of Famjin

Faroe Islands In Depth Hidden between Iceland and Norway in the heart of the North Atlantic’s swift current are the Faroe Islands, the world’s most appealing island destination as voted for by a panel of experts from National Geographic Traveller magazine. These remote islands are jam-packed with stunning scenery, walking trails and a unique architectural heritage.

Itinerary For a detailed day by day itinerary, please visit our website Day 1 Fly to Vágar | Arrive at Vágar airport located on this westerly island, home to the country’s two largest lakes, before transferring to the capital. Day 2 Sandoy | Travel by ferry to Sandoy and experience traditional Faroese lifestyle on this unspoilt island. Enjoy lunch in a remote cottage and visit the art gallery in Sandur which is home to the largest art collection in the Faroe Islands. Return to Tórshavn and dine at leisure on the last night in the capital. (B,L,D) Day 3 Tórshavn to Suðuroy | Board the modern Smyril Line ferry at Tórshavn harbour and sail to Suðuroy. Visit Akraberg, the southernmost point in the Faroe Islands, and stroll to the lighthouse which was built in 1909. In the evening dine in Seglloftið, a cultural centre and restaurant in Tvøroyri, and sample Faroese beer. (B,L,D) Day 4 Suðuroy to Gjógv | Take a boat trip to Vestmanna where countless puffins, guillemots, kittiwakes and razorbills nest in the 1,500 feet high vertical cliffs in the summer months. Travel along the coast of Streymoy to the island of Eysturoy. Pass the famous rock formations, known as the Giant and the Witch and admire the highest mountain in the country, Slættarartindur. Continue to the pretty village of Gjógv. (B,L,D)

Day 5 Norðoyggjar | From Leirvík, drive through the subsea tunnel decorated by Faroese artist Tróndur Patursson, to the island

of Borðoy. Visit the Christian Church before continuing on to Kunoy, an island in the north east, to enjoy a stroll through the small forest. Travel back to Gjógv, stopping en route at the new church in Gøta – also decorated by the artist Tróndur Patursson. (B,L,D) Day 6 Gjógv to Streymoy | Visit the pretty village of Saksun on the island of Streymoy. Surrounded by high mountains, Saksun lies at the bottom of what used to be an inlet of the sea and is one of the most distinctive villages in the Faroe Islands. Visit the old farmhouse, Dúvugarðar, before heading back to Tórshavn via the mountain road. (B,L,D) Day 7 Tórshavn | Located on the east coast of Streymoy, Tórshavn (meaning Thor’s Harbour, named after the god of thunder and lightning in Norse mythology) was founded in the 10th century and is considered to be one of the oldest capitals in Northern Europe. Enjoy a guided walking tour around the lanes and narrow passages of the capital before visiting the Faroese Museum of History and the Nordic House. Continue to Kirkjubøur and discover the ruins of Magnus Cathedral hidden behind the 12th century Saint Olav’s Church. Enjoy a traditional homemade Faroese dinner in fantastic historic surroundings. (B,L) Day 8 Tórshavn to the UK | Transfer to Vágar airport for the flight back to the UK. (B)

Tour duration

8 days

Holiday type

Group Tour Fully Guided

Departure

4 Jul 2016

Group Size

Min 10, Max 15

Prices from Single Supp.

£2120 per person

Price includes flights, accommodation, meals as specified, transfers and sightseeing tours.

Faroe Islands

Mykines Lighthouse

Island Explorer Fly-Drive Explore the Faroe Islands’ fantastic history, rich culture and spectacular scenery, and meet friendly locals on a fly-drive journey around this undiscovered destination. Sail to the island of Mykines in search of birdlife and spectacular vistas, travel to Eysturoy, home to the tallest mountain in the Faroes, explore the northern islands of Borðoy and Kunoy and enjoy time in the quirky capital, Tórshavn.

Itinerary For a detailed day by day itinerary, please visit our website Day 1 Fly to Vágar | Arrive at Vágar airport and collect the hire car and a map. Explore the island of Vágar and visit the villages of Sørvágur and Bøur before driving to Gásadalar to discover the panoramic view over the island of Mykines. (35km) Day 2 Mykines to Gjógv | Mykines is the westernmost of the 18 main islands and is teeming with birdlife. Enjoy a day tour of the island and be sure to hike to the Mykinesislat, a challenging but rewarding route. In the evening drive to Gjógv and check in to the charming Gjáargarður Guesthouse. (B) (80km) Day 3 Eysturoy | Eysturoy is a fantastic island to travel around as there are several good hiking routes and many small towns and villages to discover. Drive to Eiði and spot the Giant and the Witch rock formation in the sea and climb Slættaratindur (882m) – the highest mountain in the Faroes to experience breathtaking views. (B) (25km) Day 4 Norðoyggjar | Drive through the subsea tunnel from Leirvík and spend the day exploring the Northern Islands which are scattered with small villages and dominated by dramatic high mountains with steep falls to the sea. Visit Viðareiði, the northernmost village on the Faroe Islands, and return to Tórshavn in the evening. (B) (150km)

Day 5 Tórshavn | Spend the day in and around the charming capital and discover a variety of restaurants, cafés and handicraft shops. Take a stroll along the harbourside, visit the Nordic House – the most important cultural institution in the Faroes, explore the old town with its many turf-roofed houses and drive to the historical buildings in Kirkjubøur. Many excursions are also offered from the capital including the popular cruise on the Norðlýsið schooner. (B) (30km) Day 6 Nólsoy | Visit Nólsoy, one of the Faroes’ smallest islands which shelter the capital from the North Atlantic. Although only 20 minutes away by ferry from Tórshavn, be prepared to discover an island and a society totally different from life today. (B) Day 7 Tórshavn to Vágar | Travel to northwestern Streymoy and embark on one of the most popular tourist excursions in the Faroe Islands – an unforgettable boat tour to the renowned Vestmanna bird cliffs and grottos. Cruise alongside towering cliff faces and search for the breeding areas of puffins, guillemots and razorbills. If time allows, drive further north to Saksun, a picturesque village surrounded by high mountains. (B) (100km)

Holiday duration

8 days

Holiday type

Fly-Drive

Seasonality

May-Sep

Prices from

£1165 per person

Includes flights, accommodation and car hire (B-class VW Up or similar)

Day 8 Vágar to the UK | Return the car to Vágar airport and fly back to the UK. (B) Please note: km stated on each itinerary day = approximate driving distance covered that day

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Faroe Islands Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Mykines, Faroe Islands

Faroe Islands Experience Embark on a journey through Faroese history on this 8 day tour of the stunning islands that make up the Faroe Islands. Discover the dramatic landscapes of the islands and spend time exploring the vibrant, quirky capital of Torshavn. Unleash your inner Viking and step back in time as your tour guide regales tales of Viking legends and trace through the main events of the Faroese Saga as you hop from island to island exploring this breathtaking archipelago.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Faroe Islands Specialist for more information Day 1 Fly to Vágar | Arrive in Vágar airport and transfer to the capital, Tórshavn. Day 2 Tórshavn to Suðuroy | Embark on a morning walking tour of Tórshavn (with Viking commentary throughout!). Explore narrow cobbled streets, colourful traditional wooden houses with grass roofs, the marina and the peninsular known as Tinganes. In the afternoon, take the ferry to the southernmost island of Suðuroy and check in to your hotel. Enjoy a guided hike to Hvannhagi and Hvanndal. Day 3 Suðuroy to Tórshavn | Tour the beautiful island of Suðuroy and enjoy lunch in the small village of Famjin. Drive to the northern tip of the island, the first scene for one of the main events in the Faroese Saga. Take the ferry back to Tórshavn for a gourmet dinner. Day 4 Tórshavn to Mykines | Drive to Sørvágur and take the ferry to Mykines, also known as ‘Paradise of the birds’. On arrival, tour Mykines village and embark on a guided walk out to Hólmin – connected to the main island by a wooden footbridge over a 35 metre deep gorge, and enjoy the dramatic views from Mykines lighthouse. End the walk getting up close to the puffins that grace the island.

Day 5 Tórshavn to Nólsoy | Summon your inner Viking and sail to the caves of Hestoy Island. There is a chance to disembark the boat

at Borðan, on the island of Nólsoy to take a guided walk to Nólsoy village. Tuck into local Faroese seafood on board whilst in Nólsoy Harbour before sailing back to Tórshavn. Perhaps explore the local bars and cafes in Tórshavn, the cosiest capital in the world. Day 6 Tórshavn | Today, choose between a walking tour to Norðadálur just outside of Tórshavn, to follow in the footsteps of the Vikings or it is possible to rent a car and drive to Vestmanna to visit the picturesque villages of Gásadalur and Bø on the island of Vágar and witness the spectacular waterfall in Gásadalur. In the evening, perhaps sample the hotel’s menu before heading out into Tórshavn to soak up the bustling atmosphere. Day 7 Tórshavn to Esturoy | Cross over the only bridge over the North Atlantic Ocean to the island of Esturoy. Drive along the winding road over the highest point on the island and visit the picturesque villages of Saksun, Gjógv and Tjørnuvik where you can get an insight into local Faroese village life. Visit the Gjógv village church, built in 1929 before driving back to Tórshavn. Day 8 Tórshavn to UK |Transfer to the airport for your flight back to the UK.

Holiday duration

8 days

Holiday type

Tailor-made Optional Excursions

Seasonality

Nov-Apr

Prices from

£1679 per person

Includes flights, accommodation and transfers

3 NIGHT CITY BREAK | HHHH

3 NIGHT CITY BREAK | HHH

Hotel Føroyar

Hotel Tórshavn

Perched on the hillside above the capital, surrounded by rugged countryside, Hotel Føroyar is by far the best hotel in Tórshavn. Designed by famous Danish architects Friis & Moltke A/S, the hotel was specifically built and specially adapted into the surrounding ground and landscape and has a grass roof. Located a pleasant 20 minute walk down to Tórshavn city centre, it is centrally located to explore the town’s colourful houses, handicraft shops, marina and delicious restaurants.

This great value three-star hotel has the best location in Tórshavn. Located in the centre, overlooking the bustling harbour you can easily explore Torshavn’s unique character and charm including cobbled streets, traditional shops, cafes and restaurants or simply relax in the hotel enjoying views of the harbour and the surrounding landscape.

All of the rooms are decorated in calm colours and offer amazing panoramic views over the Faroese capital out across the Atlantic Ocean and if you’re lucky you might even awake to find a Faroese sheep nibbling the grass outside your window. Treat yourself in The KOKS restaurant located inside the hotel which won The Nordic Prize for best restaurant in the Nordic countries and offers amazing traditional Faroese cuisine such as hill-raised lamb, dry-aged fish, and pole netted sea birds.

The hotel has 43 non smoking rooms all of varying sizes to choose from. All the rooms are practical, spacious and comfortable with tea and coffee making facilities. Enjoy the beautiful sea views over the harbour as well as the surrounding vibrant landscapes. It has the honour of having the first lift installed in the Faroe Islands which the townsfolk turned out in their dozens to gaze upon. The hugely popular Hvonn Brasserie is located on the first floor and offers delicious bistro-style food from burgers and steaks to pizzas and pita kebabs. Guests can relax and enjoy light refreshments from the cafe-bar on the ground floor, as well as an aperitif or two outside on the terrace in warm summer evenings.

Prices from £579

Prices from £569

per person twin-share Price includes economy flights with Atlantic Airways, 3 nights B&B & private airport transfers

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Faroe Islands Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

The Azores

Europe’s farthest-flung outpost is just a few hours’ flight from the UK, but the Azores feel like worlds apart. The Azores archipelago is made up of a cluster of volcanic islands situated in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean, each with their own distinct character and a delightful sub-tropical climate that enjoys balmy 23°C summers. Hike across volcano shaped landscapes to discover steaming geysers, mineral hot springs and fields of bright hydrangea flowers. Reach Sao Miguel island to travel the mountain road to visit Lagoa do Fogo (Fire Lake), occupying an extinct crater and explore the cathedrals and botanical gardens of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angra do Heroísmo on Terciera Island. Head to Pico Island then take to the sea by boat, searching for the sperm and pilot whales, striking black and white orca pods and bottlenose and spotted dolphins that move through the waters off the Azores’ coastline.

The Azores TRAVEL KNOW HOW Flight time from UK: Approx. 4 hours Time zone: GMT -1 Capital: Ponta Delgada Language: Portuguese Currency: Euro Population: Approx. 250,000 AZORES IN NUMBERS

9 2,351 20 1432 2 19.5

Islands in the Azores Archipelago

Height of Mt. Pico (m)

Species of Cetaceans can be spotted

Year the Azores were discovered

UNESCO listed World Heritage Sites

Average temperature in summer (°c)

For our full range of itineraries & group tours, visit our website or speak to a specialist on 020 7666 1293.

The Azores

Angra do Heroísmo

The Inside Story The nine islands that make up the Azores, a nature-rich Portuguese archipelago nestled in the heart of the Atlantic, mark the westernmost boundary of Europe. Their volcanic origins are clear – deep craters or calderas dominate the landscape, while the fertile volcanic soil and year-round mild climate nourish vibrant vegetation. Whilst each island has its own unique cultural heritage, they all share unspoilt nature, tranquillity and a traditional way of life, with the main sources of income being agriculture and fishing. São Miguel, the largest and most populated island is home to the capital, Ponta Delgada. Nicknamed the ‘Green Island’, its landscape is packed with dense forests, volcanic lakes, rugged coastlines and steaming thermal springs. On neighbouring Terceira, navigate through the churches and gardens that make up the UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site and historical capital, Angra do Heroísmo. Discover Santa Maria, the most temperate island and Christopher Columbus’s first stop on his voyage back from discovering the New World in 1492. Here, head to the tiny village of Anjos for the Nossa Senhora dos Anjos Chapel, where he and his crew offered thanks to the Lord for a safe passage. Mix together untouched scenery, breathtaking walking trails and majestic waterfalls, and you have the island of Flores – a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Story to tell Christina Gibbons

Why I love The Azores Being an outdoors lover, the Azores didn’t disappoint. The highlight of my trip was reaching the summit of Pico Mountain. It felt so exciting to be in Europe but climbing a volcano. Looking out onto hundreds of miles of open ocean with cloud below you, it felt as if I was on top of the world. Such a magical sight that truly took my breath away.

The Azores

Regent Recommends Whale watching

Scuba Diving

Hiking

There’s more to the Azores than just the islands. The surrounding waters sit along the migration routes of many whale species and offer year-round wildlife spotting opportunities with resident common dolphin and sperm whale populations. More than 20 different types of cetaceans – a third of the total number of existing species – can be spotted in the waters. Take to the sea with a local guide and embark on an RIB boat excursion from São Miguel, Pico, Faial or Terceira to see the minke, fin and pilot whales, or go snorkelling with the bottlenose, spotted and common dolphins. For humpback or blue whale encounters, time your visit to the Azores between February and April to coincide with their annual migration north.

Often overlooked as a diving destination, the mild waters, crystal clear visibility and great depths surrounding the islands lend the Azores to offer some of the best underwater experiences in the world. From shipwrecked World War II vessels to vast submarine volcanoes called seamounts, the islands are as diverse underwater as they are on land. Come face-to-face with the largest fish in the world, the whale shark, inhabits the same waters as the mighty blue shark and swim with the curious devil ray. Local dive centres cater for divers of all levels and the dive sites are accessible from all the islands. While diving is popular all year round, the most favourable conditions are in the summer months between June and October.

The Azores offer a wide variety of walking trails to suit everyone, with plenty of awe-inspiring views. Follow the hydrangea-lined paths to discover the famous Lagoa das Sete Cidades, a twin lake occupying the crater of an ancient volcano on the island of São Miguel. Meander through whitewashed villages and over rolling green hills to reach the 300m-deep crater on the island of Flores. More ambitious hikers can climb through the clouds to the summit of Pico Mountain – standing at over 2,300 metres, it is Portugal’s tallest mountain. This five hour round trip makes for a challenging ascent, but the views over a coastline buckled and burnt by ancient lava flows are more than enough reward.

The Azores - Perfect For The Azores archipelago is a playground for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. From walking through luscious landscapes to reach the mighty Pico Mountain and hiking along the rim of Sete Cidades twin lake to coming face to face with the devil ray and spotting sperm whales at sea, you will be spoilt for choice on all the islands!

63 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Azores Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Sete Cidades

Explore the Azores Situated in the North Atlantic, over 1,800km from mainland Portugal, the nine islands of the Azores offer countless opportunities to explore landscapes designed by volcanic activity. See lakes formed in crater valleys, discover deep caverns created by lava flows and feel the healing benefit of geothermal hot springs.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Azores Specialist for more details Day 1 Fly to São Miguel Island | Fly, via Lisbon, to Sao Miguel Island, and enjoy a welcome dinner. (D) Day 2 São Miguel Island | Visit Vila Franca do Campo, former capital of the Island and continue to the valley of Furnas, an extraordinary area of volcanic activity with steaming fumaroles and more than 20 thermal springs. Visit the Botanical Gardens and cross to the north coast and stop at a tea plantation before discovering the volcanic crater Lake, Lagoa do Fogo. (B,L) Day 3 São Miguel Island | Travel to Sete Cidades where two beautiful lakes can be found at the centre of a volcanic crater. Take a stroll on the lake shore before travelling north to the Ethnographic Museum in Capelas, and on to the hothouse pineapple plantation. (B,L) Day 4 Terceira Island | Fly to Terceira Island and travel to Praia da Vitoria and stop for a short walk. Explore the Algar do Carvao – an ancient lava tube – before visiting the winegrowing area of Biscoitos. End the day in historic Angra do Heroismo. (B,L)

Day 5 Angra do Heroísmo | Enjoy a walking tour of the UNESCO listed Angra do Heroismo. Visit the main church – Se Catedral and the City Museum before a stroll through the shopping district and the botanical garden. End the day tasting delicious local calorieladen pastries. (B,L,D)

Day 6 Terceira to Pico Island | Fly to Pico and transfer to the Hotel Caravelas in the tiny capital of Madalena. Drive to the picturesque fishing village of Lajes do Pico for a talk on marine conservation before embarking on a whale watching boat tour. (B) Day 7 Pico Island | Travel through vineyards to Cachorro to sample blackberry liquor and honey rum. Continue to Sao Roque and visit the old whale factory and on to the village of Lajes to visit the Whalers museum. Return to Madalena for an overnight stay. (B,L) Day 8 Pico Island to Faial Island | Take a boat transfer to the quaint island of Faial, and arrive in Horta harbour. The rest of the day is free to explore at leisure. (B,L) Day 9 Faial Island | Visit Capelinhos, the site of the Azores’ last volcanic eruption in 1957, which created the area’s unique landscape. In the afternoon visit the Caldera nature reserve, a 2 kilometre wide and 400 metre deep volcanic cone which is now home to rare endemic flora species. (B,L) Day 10 Faial Island to UK | Transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK via Lisbon. (B)

Holiday duration

10 days

Holiday type

Tailor-made Guided excursions

Departure

11 Sep 2016

Prices from Single Supp.

£1590 per person £380

Price includes flights, accommodation, meals as specified, transfers and sightseeing tours.

The Azores

Mount Pico

Beyond the Volcano Fly-Drive Experience four beautiful islands within the Azores on this fly-drive holiday. Travel at your own pace through a route designed to bring you the best of the volcanic landscape, visiting towering volcanoes, stretching lava fields, stalagmite-filled caves and deep crater lakes along the way.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Azores Specialist for more details Day 1 Arrive in Sao Miguel | Arrive at Sao Miguel airport and collect your hire car. Drive to the hotel Sao Miguel Park and check in for 3 nights. Day 2 Explore Lava Tunnels | Set off to reach the Sete Cidades Massif, a volcanic region with a central crater and lake filled caldera and various cones, pumice deposits and lava domes to be explored. Visit the thermal springs of Ferraria and travel on to Ponta Delgada and see the Grutado Carvao, the longest lava tunnel in Sao Miguel. (B) Day 3 Visit Calderas | Drive to the village of Lagoa and visit the OVGA Volcanology Centre to learn about the Azores’ volcanic history before visiting an actual volcano at Furnas, a village with two ancient calderas and the beautiful Lagoadas Furnas Lake. Enjoy a traditional meal cooked using the underground volcanic vapours, take in the views from Lagoado Fogo mountain and take a swim at Caldera Velha. (B) Day 4 Fly to Terceira | Return your car to the airport for your flight to Terceira. On arrival, collect your next car. Travel to Angrado Heroismo, a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site and a town seemingly untouched by time. Stroll through cobbled streets and explore the harbour before driving to Monte Brasil to marvel at the extinct volcano that emerged from the sea. (B)

Day 5 Visit caves of stalagmites | Visit the Natal Cave and the Algardo Carvao, an ancient lava tube located in the centre of the island – a geological Nature Reserve filled with majestic stalactites and stalagmites and a pool of crystal clear water, stopping en route at the viewpoint at Serrado Cume overlooking the ‘patchwork quilt’ landscape. (B) Day 6 Terceira to Pico | Leave Terceira and fly to Pico. On arrival, collect your car. (B) Day 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites | Explore the youngest island in the Azores, Pico. Visit Grutadas Torres in Criacao Velha – a 5 kilometre long cave with enormous stalactites, stalagmites and lava balls. Visit Currais, a UNESCO World Heritage site, hand built with volcanic stone to protect Pico’s vineyards from the wind, stopping to sample vineyard produce. (B) Day 8 Faial Island | Board the ferry to Faial and enjoy views across the island and ocean from Cabeco Gordo Cauldron, the highest point of the island. (B)

Holiday duration

10 days

Holiday type

Fly Drive

Seasonality

May-Sep

Prices from

£1430 per person

Includes flights, accommodation and transfers

Day 9 Capelo volcanic complex | Visit the Capelo volcanic complex to see last volcano in the Azores to erupt, in 1957, and witness the unique volcanic landscape before driving to the Cape Linhos Lighthouse for panoramic views. (B) Day 10 Return to the UK | Leave the car at the airport before your flight back to the UK. (B)

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Azores Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Lake Furnas

Walking inside Volcanoes Join this walking tour of Sao Miguel Island, tramping through its most spectacular volcanic regions. The mild summer temperatures and landscape of rich green pastures dotted with aquamarine lakes and volcanic peaks make the Azores the perfect candidate for an outdoor adventure. Ideal for nature lovers and a must for anyone who enjoys walking, this eight day tour is a great way to see the highlights of Sao Miguel on foot.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Azores Specialist for more details Day 1 Arrive in Sao Miguel | Arrive in Sao Miguel, the largest island in the Azores archipelago, and transfer to the hotel Terra Nostra Garden to check in for 4 nights. Day 2 Head to the beach | Take the trail from Ribeira Funda and walk along the beach of Praia da Viola to reach Maia. This route will take you past picturesque old watermills surrounded by taro and an array of beautiful natural waterfalls. (B) Day 3 Explore Ribeira Quente | Set off from Lombado Cavaleiro for a scenic walk through the island ending at Ribeira Quente. When you arrive spend an afternoon exploring the beach, sampling the cuisine in a local restaurant or visiting the fishing port. In the evening you will be picked up for a transfer back to your hotel. (B) Day 4 Find hidden waterfalls | Head over to Faial da Terra after breakfast, lace up your walking boots and set off along the hiking trail following the course of a river to reach Salto do Prego. This route winds through Faial da Terra, a tiny old Azorean village, past water mills and small orchards to reach the stunning natural waterfall. Return transfer to the hotel. (B)

Day 5 Explore the north coast | After breakfast, begin a walk to the Lake of Furnas, stopping en route to visit the Environmental Centre of Furnas to learn about the conservation efforts present across the

surrounding landscapes. Hop into a taxi for your transfer to the Hotel Vila Nova in Sao Miguel’s capital, Ponta Delgada. Pack a camera, as during this afternoon journey, you will stop to take in breathtaking vistas and visit the most beautiful viewpoints of the north coast, and even a tea plantation. (B) Day 6 Head for the mountains | Set off in the morning to walk to the famous ‘Fire Lake’, Lagoa do Fogo, to gaze down upon the deep blue lagoon. Once you’ve marvelled at the mountains and traversed the valleys to your heart’s content, trade the hilltop views for the coast and walk down to the beach to enjoy a swim. (B) Day 7 Visit a crater lake | After breakfast, enjoy a walk to visit the gaping volcanic crater cradling an emerald lake at its heart. Take in the beautiful sweeping views of the island, its lakes and the sea before walking down to the village of Sete Cidades. (B) Day 8 Fly back to the UK | After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK. (B)

Holiday duration

8 days

Holiday type

Tailor-made

Seasonality

May-Sep

Prices from

£949 per person

Includes flights, accommodation and transfers

The Azores

Ponta Delgada

Holiday in Sao Miguel Using the historic town of Ponta Delgada as your base, explore the largest island in the Azores; Sao Miguel. Head high and low to discover the beauty of the Azores; tour the peaks of the surrounding hills, following hiking routes past lakes and around gaping volcanic craters and descend to visit geothermal hot water springs. Find a local wildlife spotting guide and take to the sea in search of the wild whale and dolphin communities that move through the Atlantic waters.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Azores Specialist for more details Day 1 Fly to Sao Miguel | Arrive in Sao Miguel, the largest island of the archipelago and part of the eastern group of islands. Transfer to the elegant 4-star Royal Garden Hotel just a stone’s throw from both the seafront, historical old town and city gates and check in for seven nights. Day 2 Explore Ponta Delgada | Enjoy a day at leisure to explore the historic town centre of Ponta Delgada – home to some of the prettiest architecture in the Azores. Wander through roads of stark white buildings framed with black volcanic stone and visit the three arched city gates. (B) Day 3 Furnas Valley | After breakfast take a drive into the mountains, stopping to soak up the views at Caloura. Continue on to Vila Franca – the island’s first capital in the fifteenth century and admire the historical architecture before travelling to the beautiful Furnas valley, where a visit to the glistening lake and a dip in a natural volcanic hot spring is in order. Sit down to a traditionally Azorean lunch cooked from the ground’s natural hot vapours, before exploring the botanical gardens and touring a tea plantation. (B,L) Day 4 Watch for Whales | Head out to open sea to search for sperm, fin and minke whales, and pods of common or spotted dolphins. The sperm whale is the largest of the toothed

whales and is a native of the Azores. This magnificent creature pokes its head out of the water for a full eight minutes between dives – perfect to catch a good glimpse of the creature and snap a few photographs. (B) Day 5 Cete Cidades Valley | Head to the valley of Sete Cidades – one of the seven natural wonders of Portugal. The valley showcases the green and blue lakes which according to legend, were formed from the tears of a shepherd and a princess who shared a forbidden love. Continue on to Lagoa do Fogo (Fire Lake) and admire the view of the island from an altitude of 900 metres. (B,L) Day 6 Explore Ponta Delgada | Spend a relaxing day exploring Ponta Delgada, stroll around the Praça Gonçalo Velho square and relax in its array of cafes and coffee shops, or speak to our travel specialists about booking an optional excursion. (B)

Holiday duration

8 days

Holiday type

Tailor-made Optional Excursions

Seasonality

May-Sep

Prices from

£625 per person

Includes flights, accommodation and transfers

Day 7 Relax in Ponta Delgada | Enjoy a leisurely day strolling through the old town, embark on a horse-drawn carriage ride or take the Lagarta Tourist Train that travels along the city’s cobbled streets. (B) Day 8 Fly back to the UK | After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK. (B)

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Azores Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Finland

Your own imagination and adventurous spirit are the only limits to your summer visit to Finnish Lapland where between May and August, the sun never sets. Finland’s northernmost region has earned its reputation as the ultimate destination for a white Christmas, but is also a stunning choice year-round. Pristine mountain environments and idyllic landscapes of rolling hills are protected by some of Europe’s largest conservation areas, traversed by hiking routes and flawlessly untouched from mass tourism. From taking a riverboat cruise through the great Lemmenjoki National Park to discover the Ravadas Waterfall and hearing tales of reindeer herding over a campfire with a local Sami village, to summiting Kaunispää fell for magnificent views across the sharp peaks and ragged forest of Sompio Strict Nature Reserve, Finland is perfect for any nature enthusiast hooked on the great outdoors.

Finland TRAVEL KNOWHOW Flight time from UK: 3 hours 10 minutes Time zone: GMT +2 Capital: Helsinki Language: Finnish, Swedish Currency: Euro Population: Approx 5,454,000 FINLAND IN NUMBERS

188,000 86% 24 2.2 1,500 13 Approximate number of lakes in Finland

Of Finland is covered by pine, spruce and birch forests

Hours of daylight in Rovaniemi on summer solstice

Million saunas in Finland

Approximate number of brown bears in Finland

Percent of Finnish forests are protected

For our full range of Finland itineraries, group tours and railway holidays, visit our website or speak to a specialist on 020 7666 1293.

Finland The Inside Story Finland is a large, sparsely populated country featuring stunning Arctic landscapes in the north, thousands of tiny islands in the south and vast unspoiled forests and countless, crystal clear lakes in between. The clear light of long summer days discourages sleep in favour of outdoor pursuits including fishing, canoeing and biking. The capital, Helsinki, is a city based around the water. Its very heart is the thriving market on the harbour front. From here, you can set sail for many of the tranquil islands, or perhaps visit the island zoo or even dine in the former Russian yacht club, set tantalisingly close to the shore – but don’t miss the last boat back. Explore the beautiful wilderness area of Lapland by bike or on foot and feed northern Finland’s famed reindeer and husky dogs. Drift off to sleep under the midnight sun in your very own glamping tent and learn how to cook as the Finns do in a cooking lesson. For those with an interest in culture and history a visit to the village of Inari, the heart of the Sámi homeland, and to Siida, the museum of the Finnish Sámi, is an absolute must. And for nature lovers, the densely forested borderlands of Eastern Finland are the ideal spot for bear watching. Finland’s vast forests are home to an estimated 1,500 brown bears and sightings can almost be guaranteed on a bear-watching trip between April and September.

Story to tell Jane Slade

Why I love Finland Summer in Finland is my favourite time of year. For those who venture north of the Arctic Circle, the sun does not set at all for a couple of months, and even further south you can enjoy almost 24 hours of sunlight a day during June and July. This means that the days are long and you can fill them up with exciting activities including fishing, golfing hiking and cycling

Finland

Regent Recommends Helsinki City Breaks

Foraging in Finland

Brown Bears

The Finnish capital is simply bursting with culture. Like other Scandinavian cities it thrives around the clock, offering countless possibilities for sightseers and bon vivants alike. By day admire Helsinki’s grand classical architecture reflecting the city’s significant past and discover innovative, modern buildings revealing its current optimism. By night visit the opera or sample some of Helsinki’s numerous bars and bustling night cafés. No trip to Helsinki would be complete without relaxing in a proper Finnish sauna followed by a cold Lapin Kulta beer. Separated by only 30 miles of sea from Tallinn, why not spend a day sightseeing in Estonia’s medieval capital. Speak to a Regent Specialist for details.

In the late summer months, the forests in Finland come alive with delicious treats. Mushroom and berry picking are popular outdoor activities towards the end of summer and are permitted under Finland’s ‘everyman’s right’ which gives open access to the forest for mushroom and berry picking purposes. The long summer days provide the ideal environment for growing nutrient rich fruits which can be freshly eaten or taken home to use in traditional Finnish cuisine. As many as 50 different berry varieties exist in Finland’s forests from Lingonberries, blueberries and raspberries to the lesser known bearberries and crowberries not to mention more than 2,000 varieties of mushroom.

Finland ’s remote eastern wilderness is home to roaming wild wolverine and lynx, but one elusive creature lurking in the trees captures the hearts of visitors and steals the show, the brown bear. Finland’s brown bear populations live, play and forage for food in the ancient taiga pine forests that carpet the Finland-Russia border. Rarely spotted during the day, the best chances of seeing them are at twilight. Spend a night or two in a wildlife hide in the woods for the chance to see these inquisitive creatures in their natural habitat. Visit between May and September to take advantage of the long twilights and the midnight sun – where visitors can experience 1921 hours of daylight.

71 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Finland Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Midnight sun in Lapland

Glamping in the Midnight Sun Experience the best of Lapland’s magical natural surroundings, from hiking or biking through stunning Arctic wilderness to feeding Northern Finland’s famed reindeer and husky families. Stay in an Aurora Dome – the first official glamping destination in Finland and Northern Scandinavia, From your glass topped arctic lodge you’ll have a chill-free view of Scandinavia’s spectacular Northern Lights in winter and legendary midnight sun during summer months.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Finland Specialist for more information Day 1 Fly to Kittila | Arrive at Kittila airport and transfer to Torassiepi cabin village to settle in to your glamping Aurora Dome. Sit back and watch the Northern Lights dance across the skies above in the winter months and the midnight sun linger across the lake during summer, from the comfort of your bed thanks to the clear glass roof. (D) Day 2 Meet the Reindeer | Head out into the arctic wilderness after breakfast. Either set off on a hike, or take a Canoe trip to paddle through the crystal clear waters of the Lake Torassieppi (optional extra). Meet Lapland’s most famous and friendliest residents at an old Lappish farmhouse, where you’ll have the opportunity to feed the tame reindeer and learn the history of traditional reindeer husbandry. (B,L,D) Day 3 Explore the Wilderness | Hire a bike and set off with a packed lunch to explore the national park and explore the arctic forest, following trails through the wilderness. Enjoy a hearty dinner in the Torassiepi restaurant and retire to your dome. (B,L,D)

Day 4 Meet the Huskies | After breakfast, transfer to Hotel Harriniva perched next to the beautiful Muonio River and near

the Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park. Visit the Husky farm to spend the morning with Lapland’s other famous characters, and enjoy a free afternoon walking into Harriniva town centre or hiking the Olos fells. (B,D) Day 5 Take to the Lakes | Once you’ve enjoyed breakfast, you’ll be put in charge of providing your lunch. Take a fishing trip and try to catch your own fresh ingredients for a cookery school, teaching you to cook as the Finnish do. (B,L,D) Day 6 Fly back to the UK | Transfer to Kittila airport for your flight back to the UK. (B)

Holiday duration

6 days

Holiday type

Tailor-made Optional Excursions

Seasonality

May-Sep

Prices from

£1055 per person

Includes flights, accommodation, transfers & excursions

Finland

Finnish Sauna

Culture & Cuisine of Finland Discover the world of Finnish cuisine and traditional culture on this group tour, taking a gastronomic journey through both Finland and its regional dishes while cycling and hiking through the countryside. The Fins have developed a unique menu combining country recipes with contemporary continental style cooking; learn to bake your own sweet treats and savoury delicacies before retiring to a Finnish sauna each evening.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Finland Specialist for more information Day 1 Arrive in Puukarin Pysäkki | Arrive at Puukarin Pysäkki in the evening to enjoy a great Finnish tradition – the hot sauna. (B,L,D) Day 2 Master the staples | Meet Anni, your cuisine workshop host, to start the week by baking a dark rye bread. Rye is a staple of the Finnish diet, though other breads are also made with a combination of barley, oats or wheat. (B,L,D) Day 3 Bake sweet treats | Set off on a biking tour with a guide to reach the next guesthouse, stopping en route at small souvenir boutique. Bake sweet cardamomflavoured buns called pulla with Henna, traditionally eaten with coffee or as a dessert, before trying soft korvapuustit – cinnamon rolls with sugar. Relax in the evening, enjoying a sauna by the river. (B,L,D) Day 4 Peat sauna | Rejoin Henna for today’s task, baking a cake. In the afternoon take on a different Finnish specialty – an immersive peat sauna traditionally believed to relax and rejuvenate your whole body. (B,L,D) Day 5 Discover Karelian culture | Embark on a biking tour to Männikkölä after breakfast, or opt to make the 25km journey by taxi. Visit the small town of Nurmes and Bomba House to learn about traditional eastern Finland’s Karelian communities and culture and enjoy the opportunity to go shopping. Spend the afternoon baking

Karelian pies with Ritva, learning to make a karjalanpiirakka, a traditional Finnish Karelian dish similar to a pasty. You’ll make a thin rye pastry from scratch to form a crust and add a rice-based filling. Historically, these are eaten with a spread of butter and boiled egg. (B,L,D) Day 6 Hike through Koli National Park | After breakfast, more Karelian pies are on the menu. Once you’ve added a different type of Karelian dish to your culinary repertoire, you’ll take a minibus up into Koli National Park for a hike. At the end of an 8 mile hiking route, reach the peak of the hill nestled in the centre of the park to enjoy sweeping panoramic views across eastern Finland’s stunning forested natural landscape. (B,L,D) Day 7 Pick your ingredients | Set off on two wheels for a biking tour of Pihlajapuu with guide. Once you’ve arrived, spend an afternoon picking wild mushrooms for dinner and berries with which to cook jam. In the evening enjoy a smoke sauna before tucking into glow-fried salmon, a Finnish delicacy, by the campfire. (B,L,D)

Holiday duration

8 days

Holiday type

Small Group Tour

Group size

Max 12

Departure date

3rd Sep

Prices from

£1275 per person

Includes flights, transfers, accommodation Speak to a Regent Specialist about tailor-making this trip at other times throughout the year

Day 8 Fly back to the UK | Transfer to the airport for your flight back to the UK. (B)

73 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Finland Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Arctic fox in the Lappish wilderness

Wildlife Wilderness Fly-Drive Get behind the wheel to head deep into the northernmost reaches of Europe in search of brown bears on this fly-drive holiday through Finland. Close to the Russian Border, traverse sparsely populated taiga forests and hike through national parks to soak up the stunning scenery. Get to know the wildlife while passing green expanses of pine trees and canoeing through crystal clear lakes, before retiring to a Finnish sauna each evening.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Finland Specialist for more information Day 1 Fly to Kuopio | Collect your hire car upon arrival at Kuopio airport. The city is lively in summer so explore the bustling harbour and sample local fish pie at the market. Head up to the Puijo tower for beautiful views over the town and surrounding Lake Kallavesi, before driving to Metsäkartano for dinner in a mansion. (D) Day 2 Explore National Parks | Choose between two national parks. Take on the rugged landscape and hilly walking trails around Hiidenportti National Park to reach the majestic vertical walls of the Hiidenportti Gorge, or opt for easier routes around beaches and beautiful lakeside scenery at Tiilikkajärvi National Park. (B,D) Day 3 Wildlife watching | Leave Metsäkartano for Kuhmo. Travel via Nurmes to discover Finnish Karelian culture at Bomba House. Stop to join a wildlife tour and explore the middle of the taiga forest in search of native flora and fauna – a beaver-spotting safari can be booked at additional cost. Spend a night in Kuhmo, a small traditional village. Visit in July to enjoy its famous Chamber Music Festival. (B,D)

Day 4 Meet the Brown Bears | Head north through sparsely populated regions next to the Russian border, reaching the international frontier crossing point of Vartius. Visit WW2 battle sites and war museums at Raate. Enjoy an evening in the tiny border village

of Juntusranta in European brown bearinhabited forest. An evening bear-watching safari can be booked at additional cost. (B,D) Day 5 Hiking in Hossa | Continue north to Hossa. Hike, canoe or fish in this stunning area, famed for its crystal-clear lake and pine-coveredheath lands. Visit the oldest rock paintings in Northern Finland at Värikalliot and feed the semi wild inhabitants of the Hossa reindeer park before moving on to Kuusamo. (B,D) Day 6 Kuusamo | Take the Small Bear’s Trail to hike through the pine forests and river valleys with sandy banks of Oulanka National Park and visit the rushing rapids, try mountain biking or hop in a canoe. Alternatively, head to Ruka (Finland’s favourite skiing resort) to enjoy stunning hilltop views and take on the slopes with a sled. (B,D) Day 7 Reach the Arctic Circle | Arrive at Rovaniemi on the Arctic Circle. Visit the Riisitunturi National Park or Korouoma Nature Reserve for hiking routes through striking valley-carved landscapes. Fill your last day with wildlife with a visit to the Ranua Zoo to meet Finland’s native polar bears, brown bears, lynxes and wolves and uncover Finnish Lapland’s history at the Arktikum museum. (B) Day 8 Rovaniemi to the UK | Return hire car to the airport and leave for the UK. (B)

Holiday duration

8 days

Holiday type

Fly-drive

Seasonality

May-Sep

Prices from

£1089 per person

Includes flights, accommodation in hotels, apartments & cabins, car hire (Group A Citroen C1 or similar)

Finland

A large male brown bear in Finnish taiga

Bears, Wolves & Wildlife Adventure Discover the unspoiled natural beauty and native wildlife of the wild taiga forests that carpet Eastern Finland and the Russian border on this fly-drive holiday. Spend your nights in lodge hides to make the most of the rare opportunity to photograph and get up close to Europe’s last brown bears and learn about Finland’s local carnivores, from wolves and wolverines to lynx.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Finland Specialist for more information Day 1 Arrive in Kuopio | Arrive to pick up your hire car from Kuopio airport in the morning and head north to Erä-Eero in Lieksa. Finland’s Wild Taiga stretches across the north east of the country and is a rural region steeped in rich cultural traditions and history. Set off in the afternoon to a small hide lodge where you’ll spend the night on the watch for prowling wolverines – this part of wilderness offers the best spotting opportunities for these solitary arctic mammals in Finland. (L,D) Day 2 Watch for Wolves | Return from the hide in the morning and drive to Kuhmo, close to the Russian border to use Kuikka lodge as your base, nestled deep in boreal forest next to Lake Kuikka. After an early dinner, depart to tonight’s wildlife hide for another night in the wilderness. Packs of the Grey Wolf live and roam through the eastern forests and are a common sight from this hide. Keep eyes open and cameras focussed for lone bears and wild bird species that regularly make an appearance. (B,L,D) Day 3 Relax in the Kuikka | Tuck into breakfast upon returning to Kuikka lodge in the morning and learn about the lives and conservation of the creatures you’re been searching for with wildlife programme talks. Take advantage of an available room to relax and recuperate during

the day, before venturing back to the wildlife hide to spend another night watching out for Eastern Finland’s large carnivorous residents. (B,L,D)

Day 4 Spot Wild Bears | Head deep into the Kainuu countryside and embark on the drive to Martinselkonen Wilderness Centre in Suomussalmi, operating in the old ‘Pirttivaara’ border guard station and run by a company specialising in bear and wildlife watching tours. Another night in a hide is in order; enjoy the quiet solitude of the protected environment filled with ancient spruces covered in beard moss and home to substantial populations of Finland’s native black bears. (B,L,D) Day 5 Martinselkonen | Return to Martinselkonen in the morning and enjoy the peaceful nature of retreating into untouched rural areas. Rest up after breakfast, ready to depart in the afternoon for your last night in the wild forest hide near the border zone. From your vantage point among the trees, you’ll also have the opportunity to spot rare black kite, white tailed eagles and golden eagles that nest in the area. (B,L,D)

Holiday duration

6 days

Holiday type

Fly-Drive

Seasonality

May-Aug

Prices from

£1459 per person

Includes flights, accommodation in wilderness lodges and camps, car hire (Group A Citroen C1 or similar)

Day 6 Fly to UK | Check out from Martinselkonen after breakfast, before journeying to Kajaani airport to fly back to the UK. (B)

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Finalnd Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Norway Norway is a true celebration of the great outdoors. When May comes around, the vast expanses of snow that blanket the countryside in the winter months recede to the mountaintops, uncovering an alluring landscape of craggy boulders and rugged peaks, glacier-carved fjords and verdant green valleys, criss-crossed with hiking trails and dotted with wooden mountain cabins. With a population of just 5 million, Norway is the ideal choice to find an uninterrupted slice of wilderness. Head high above the Arctic Circle to Spitsbergen, an island in the Svalbard archipelago located halfway between Tromso and the North Pole to witness the magical midnight sun; endless ice fields and mighty glaciers are spectacularly illuminated for 24 hours a day. Or choose to explore the picturesque harbour of Tromso, lined with coloured wooden houses and take a cable car to the top of Mount Storsteinen for sweeping panoramas over the town and surrounding islands.

Norway TRAVEL KNOWHOW Flight time from UK: Approx. 2 hours Time zone: GMT +1 Capital: Oslo Language: Norwegian Currency: Norwegian Krone Population: Approx 5,048,000 NORWAY IN NUMBERS

24.5 20,000+ 450,000 20.2 1,190 604 Length of the world’s longest road tunnel, Laerdal, in Norway (km)

Length of the coastline in Norway (km)

Approximate number of lakes in Norway

Length of the Flåm Railway Line

Approximate number of fjords in Norway and the Svalbard Islands

Height of Pulpit Rock in Lysefjorden (m)

For our full range of Norway itineraries, group tours and railway holidays, visit our website or speak to a specialist on 020 7666 1293.

Norway The Inside Story Norway is one of the most beautiful countries on Earth, home to quaint fishing villages, picturesque national parks, glistening glaciers and fjords and the sub-polar archipelago of Svalbard. Oslo is one of the world’s most liveable cities, where neoclassical 10th century buildings and palaces mix with modern architecture and luscious green landscapes. Visit Oslo on a city break or as part of a guided tour, or cruise around the stunning Lofoten islands in search of Killer whales – a highlight of any trip to Norway. Travel to the tiny town of Longyearbyen which sits above the Arctic Circle and offers ice fjords, mighty glaciers and stunning landscapes in summer and an array of wildlife including polar bears, walrus, whales and polar foxes. Chug past spectacular waterfalls and sheer mountains from Myrdal to Flåm, which is nestled in the innermost corner of the Aurlandsford – one of Norway’s most spectacular inlets, on the Flåm Railway Line. One of the world’s steepest railways, the 20-kilometre train journey winds through breathtaking scenery including rivers cut through deep ravines, snowcapped mountains and farms that cling to the rugged slopes. Travel to the Northern Cape, one of the northernmost points in Europe and a great place to watch the magical midnight sun illuminate panoramas stretching across the Arctic Ocean.

Story to tell Shane Hosiene

Why I love Norway Exploring the stunning islands of the Lofoten Archipelago was definitely my personal highlight and I will never forget my first approach to the islands by ferry. The scenery here is simply out of this world. Rugged peaks plunge into the glassy waters and many pretty fishing villages dot the islands that are all connected by road bridges and tunnels making them very accessible

Norway

Regent Recommends Oslo city breaks

Fabulous Fjords

Sami Culture

Norway’s capital is uniquely located at the top of Oslofjord, fringed with forests, hills and lakes fit for hiking, cycling and boating. The fjord links the city with the open sea and small picturesque villages which provide the perfect antidote to city life. As well as being a verdant capital, Oslo has a thriving cafe and bar culture, world-class restaurants, museums, galleries and a variety of shops ranging from Scandinavian brands to vintage boutiques. See the highlights of Oslo on a leisurely paced bike tour, marvel at collections of Norwegian art at the National Gallery or visit the Ski museum and learn about its history of hosting Ski Championships.

Norway’s is home to some of the longest, deepest, narrowest and most beautiful fjords in the world. Western Norway is famous for its thousands of easily accessible fjords and mountains, from the stunning UNESCO listed Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord to Norway’s longest fjord – Sognefjord – which is 204 kilometres long. The best way to experience the fjords is to embark on a fjord cruise. Sail to the breathtaking Lofoten Islands – often known as the highlight of Norway – and cruise between its fjords where rugged mountains and colourful fishing villages reflect in the glassy water. Spend a few days exploring the islands on a hike or by kayak.

The Sami are Norway’s indigenous people and represent the oldest cultures in the country. Often referred to as ‘Lapps’ the Sami people are at one with nature and travellers first encounter them selling souvenirs including colourful local costumes, shows and hats, reindeer skins and leather handicrafts. Travel to Karasjok in Northern Norway, the Sami capital, to experience the culture and history of the Sami people. Karasjok is a great place to hear the Sami joik, eat Sami food, meet Sami people and come face to face with the Sami’s best friend – the reindeer – who provide meat, fur and transportation for them.

NORWEGIAN SEA

GULF OF BOTHNIA

BALTIC SEA

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Norway Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Lofoten Islands, Norway

North Cape & the Land of the Midnight Sun

Departure Dates 2016 18 Jun 9 Jul 6 Aug

Discover the delights of Norway and combine each of the country’s iconic Scandinavian landscapes in this group tour. Voyage through deep arctic fjords, pass towering mountainous peaks and meet the Sami people in Nordic Lapland. Experience the eerie, awe-inspiring midnight sun and travel north to stand at the edge of Europe at North Cape.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Norway Specialist for more information Day 1 Arrive in Bodø | Arrive in Bodø to spend a day at leisure. Explore the pretty city sprawled out over a beautiful peninsula in Northern Norway, walk along the quayside and admire stunning views of the town from across the harbour before meeting your group and tour leader in the evening. (B) Day 2 Set sail for the Lofoten Islands | Hop on the ferry to sail across the Vestfjord to the dramatic Lofoten archipelago, a distinctive group of mountainous islands whose peaks rise sharply from the glassy waters. Many pretty fishing villages dot the valleys but this tour visits two in particular; Nusfjord is one of Norway’s oldest and best preserved fishing villages and is now a protected a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Lofotr, the reconstruction of a Viking chieftain’s homestead. Spend a night in Svolvaer, Loften’s busiest port town. (B) Day 3 Explore Norway’s Fjords | Choose to join a boat excursion to the breathtaking Trollfjord, a narrow arctic fjord lined by steep mountains. Here you have the chance to spot eagles. Continue the journey through the Lofoten Islands to reach the charming city of Harstad. (B)

Day 4 Head north to Tromsø | Travel from Harstad to Tromsø and spend an afternoon at leisure exploring one of the northernmost

cities in the world. Journey aboard the Hurtigruten ferry to admire the astounding landscape (optional extra). (B) Day 5 Visit Alta | This leg of the trip takes you across two fjords to Alta. Explore the history of this town, ranging from 7,000 year old rock carvings to a 1980’s court case involving the native Sami Rights. Visit the World Heritage Rock Art Centre and a UNESCO World Heritage open-air rock art site. (B) Day 6 Northern Cape | The finale of this tour takes you into Honningsvåg and on to one of the northernmost points of Europe; the rocky cliffs at North Cape. After a hearty dinner, travel to the iconic North Cape to see the midnight sun spectacularly illuminate panoramas stretching across the Arctic Ocean. You’ll even receive a glass of champagne and a North Cape Certificate. (B) Day 7 Return South through Hammerfest | Stop at Hammerfest as you journey back down south – the northernmost town in the world and the gate to the Barents Sea. Visit The Royal and Ancient Polar Bear Society museum in Hammerfest, celebrating the animal that is the town’s mascot and heraldic crest. (B) Day 8 Fly back to the UK | Transfer to the airport for the flight back to the UK. (B)

Holiday duration

8 days

Holiday type

Group Tour Fully Guided

Seasonality

Jun-Aug

Group size

Max 20

Prices from

£1735 per person

Includes flights, accommodation, transfers, travel by coach and sightseeing tours

Norway

Norwegian Fjords, Norway

Unique Fjords & Glaciers Group Tour

Departure Dates 2016 12 Jun 3 & 31 Jul

Cross deep fjords, traverse stunning mountain passes and travel through small fishing villages in southern Norway to reach heaving glaciers. This group tour journeys through nature’s northern European playground, boards the Flan Railway and spans some of Norway’s most iconic and dramatic landscapes, while also delving into the culture of the capital city, Oslo.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Finland Specialist for more information Day 1 Arrive in Bergen | Fly to Bergen, known as the gateway to the fjords, and enjoy a day at leisure. Reach the top of the mountains overlooking the city on the Fløibanen funicular railway for sweeping views across Bergen – particularly spectacular as the sun sets. (B) Day 2 Discover Hardangerfjord | Spend the morning exploring the sights and sounds of Bergen, with a tour visiting the popular fish market and historic old town area of Bryggen. Head into the striking, glacier-carved walls of Hardangerfjord, Norway’s second largest fjord, towards Stalheim village perched at the top of the Nærøydalen Canyon and home to superb panoramic views over the valley. (B) Day 3 Cruise through the fjords | Drive the panoramic route to Flåm, an idyllic village from where you can embark on a scenic fjord cruise to Gudvangen. Return to the road to reach Vangsnes, cross the Sognefjord, the longest and deepest fjord in Norway and arrive in Balestrand in time for dinner. (B) Day 4 Nigardsbreen Glacier | Get right up close to the immense Nigardsbreen Glacier, an arm of the Jostedal Glacier, reaching it on foot or by a small passenger boat. Travel by ferry across the Fjærlandfjord to reach the Breheimsenteret Glacier Centre located by the colossal Jostedal Glacier – the largest

glacier on the European mainland. The whole glacier and nearby valleys are protected as a National Park. (B) Day 5 Flam Oslo | Cross the Sognefjord once again to reach Flåm and hop a board one of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world, the Flåm Railway. This spectacular route offers a panoramic view of some of the wildest and most magnificent nature in the Norwegian fjord landscape. On arrival at the mountain station of Myrdal, change and travel Oslo. (B) Day 6 Explore Norway’s Capital | Discover Oslo in depth with a 3 hour city tour that includes exploring some of the 200 ornate sculptures of Vigeland Park, before ascending to the dizzying heights of the Holmenkollen ski jump for a fantastic view over the city, and a visit to the Opera House. Do as you wish with an afternoon at leisure in the town – take a local ferry to the Bygdøy peninsula or pop into one of the many popular museums. (B)

Holiday duration

7 days

Holiday type

Group Tour Fully Guided

Seasonality

Jun-Aug

Group size

Max 20

Prices from

£1599 per person

Includes flights, accommodation, transfers, travel by coach and sightseeing tours.

Day 7 Fly back to the UK | Depart Oslo to fly back to the UK. (B)

81 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Norway Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Flåm Railway, image by Morten Rakke

Flåm & Fjords Fly-Drive Start in the capital to embark on a route through Norway’s highest mountain passes and skirting around the country’s largest fjords, beautifully lined with near-vertical valley walls. Climb aboard the Flåm Railway, one of the world’s most spectacular rail routes before walking in the shadow of Europe’s greatest glacier, the gigantic Jostedal Glacier and embracing the panorama from the summit of Mt Floyen.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Norway Specialist for more information Day 1 Fly to Oslo | Arrive in Oslo to pick up your rental car and spend a day exploring the stunning town waterfront that overlooks the Oslofjord. (B)

the mountains and alongside a waterfall. Drive through the Gudvangen tunnel on your way to Stalheimen, perched on the top of the narrow Nærøydalen Canyon. (B)

Day 2 Head to Lillehammer | Journey along the shores of Lake Mjøsa stopping to visit Hamar and Lillehammer – home of the 1994 Winter Olympics. Here you can visit the picturesque farm buildings and town houses at the Maihaugen open air museum. (B)

Day 5 Head to Bergen | Your journey to Bergen will take you via Voss and through 40 tunnels. Explore the history and Hanseatic culture of charming Bergen town settled at the foot of seven mountains on the west coast of Norway. Tour the harbour area and visit the cathedral and famous fish market before sauntering through the narrow streets of the old town. For the best views in the area, ride the Fløibanen funicular up to the top of Mt. Fløyen. (B)

Day 3 Jostedal Glacier | Point the compass north to route through the mountains of the giants, Jotunheimen National Park. Climb up the Sognefjell – Northern Europe’s highest mountain pass at 1,500m for a breathtaking view over Galdhøpiggen, the highest mountain of Norway. Stick with the ‘bigger is better’ theme for today to visit Jostedal Glacier, the largest glacier on the European mainland. Drive along the shores of the giant ‘King of the Fjords’, Sognefjord, through charming, traditional villages towards Sogndal. (B)

Day 4 Ride the Flåm Railway | Hop on the ferry to cross to Fodness and join the road to Laerdal, a pretty fjord town lined with a rainbow of wooden houses. Choose whether you embark on the 24km tunnel to Flåm, or take on the breathtaking mountain pass, the ‘Snow-Road’ passing by a glass viewpoint that overhangs the cliff. Trade the wheels for the rails and ride the Flåm Railway for an unforgettable trip through

Day 6 Visit Waterfalls | Step behind the crashing wall of water at the Steindalsfossen waterfall as you drive to Norheimsund along the shores of the vast Hardangerfjord. Learn about the region’s native flora and fauna in the small town of Eidfjord before heading through the narrow Måbødalen gorge to reach Fossli and Vøringsfossen – the highest waterfall in Norway. (B) Day 7 Back to Oslo | Once you’ve explored Norway’s famous glassworks of Hadeland outside Geilo, head back towards Oslo to explore any final areas of the city or surrounding landscape. (B) Day 8 Fly back to the UK | Return your hire car at Oslo airport and fly back to the UK. (B)

Holiday duration

8 days

Holiday type

Fly-Drive

Seasonality

May-Sep

Prices from

£1049 per person

Includes flights, car hire in a Group A (VW UP! or similar), accommodation

Norway

Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen

Spitsbergen Summer Break Head high above the Arctic Circle to the idyllic remote town of Longyearbyen, nestled deep within rugged mountains and icy plains, where charming colourful buildings are in stark contrast to the snow-capped hills and mountains that surround them. Beneath the summer midnight sun spot an array of birdlife migrating to Spitsbergen to take advantage of 24 hours of daylight and explore the dramatic coastlines, ice fjords and the majestic Nordenskjold Glacier.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Norway Specialist for more information Day 1 Arrive Longyearbyen | Arrive at the airport and transfer to the Radisson Blu Polar Hotel for a 5 night stay. (B) Day 2 Sightseeing in Longyearbyen | Let a local guide lead your introduction to Longyearbyen through the Longyear valley, exploring the town before heading out to Adventdalen towards Mine 7. Often, you’ll spot local Svalbard Reindeer along your journey and, in the summer months, thousands of migratory birds converging on the delta. (B) Day 3 Pyramiden and the Nordenskjold Glacier | After breakfast, embark on a boat trip and sail slowly towards Isfjord through the icy seas towards Billefjord and onto the majestic, vast wall of ice that is Nordenskjold Glacier. Keep your eyes open for Arctic wildlife including bearded seals, ring seals, Arctic foxes and, more rarely, even polar bears, before exploring the deserted, perfectly preserved Russian mining town of Pyramiden. (B)

Day 5 Free Day | Enjoy a free day, to explore the colourful town of Longyearbyen or book an optional excursion. Choose to kayak through the waters of Adventfjorden, one of Svalbard’s most historic fjords, paddling towards the ghost town of Hiorthhamn. Or, spend an evening in the atmospheric Arctic Wilderness. Head out into the tundra, 10km from Longyearbyen in the Advent Valley to sample traditional tasty reindeer dishes, coffee and cake around the bonfire and listen to stories of polar bears and life in Spitsbergen. (B) Day 6 Depart Spitsbergen | Depart from Spitsbergen and fly to the UK. (B)

Holiday duration

6 days

Holiday type

Tailor-made

Seasonality

May-Sept (dog sledding starts 21st June)

Prices from

£1299 per person

Includes flights, accommodation, transfer and excursions

Day 4 Dog Sledding | Dog mushing is no longer only for the winter. Experience dog sledding without the snow, driving a specially designed wheeled sled to enjoy the fresh Arctic air and mountain views as you tour Endalen past the cableway turning station and towards the old Gruve 5 mine. (B)

83 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Norway Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Arctic Voyages The Inside Story New for 2016, Regent Holidays are partnering with Poseidon and Oceanwide expeditions to offer a range of cruises to Iceland, Greenland and Spitsbergen. Joining one of these expedition cruises offers the chance to reach remote landscapes rarely explored by other travellers, where weather and ice conditions guide the route. Poseidon’s M/V Sea Spirit was specially built for comfortably sailing the icy waters of the Arctic, and the atmosphere on board is of relaxation and discovery. The ship’s experienced lecturers command an in-depth knowledge of the areas in which the M/V Sea Spirit sails, and conduct regular lectures on topics such as biology, history and geology helping you to get the most out of the voyage. Oceanwide’s authentic S/V Rembrandt Van Rijn will offer you a completely different cruise experience. A lot smaller and more intimate than the M/V Sea Spirit, the Rembrandt overflows with character and charm. Wherever you are onboard, never miss a moment of the passing landscape. Both vessels have spacious observation decks with ample seating and sets of binoculars provide opportunities for wildlife viewing in comfort. Even the sauna on the M/V Sea Spirit provides superb vistas and the on board restaurant offers scenic views from every table.

Story to tell Shane Hosiene

Why I love Arctic Cruises An expedition voyage to the world’s largest national park in Northeast Greenland will leave you feeling on top of the world in more ways than one. Sailing through a maze of fjords and icebergs, the stunning views from the observation deck may include sightings of polar bears and musk oxen. But the real highlights are the regular shore landings which offer incredible opportunities to fully immerse yourself in this otherwise inaccessible and uninhabited Arctic paradise.

Arctic Voyages

About our Arctic Cruises M/V Sea Spirit

S/V Rembrandt Van Rijn

Food & Drink

The M/V Sea Spirit is specifically designed for sailing in polar waters. Stay in one of 56 cabins with seven categories to choose from – from inside cabins all the way up to outside Premium and Owners suites with their own private balconies. As well as boasting numerous lounges in which to relax, on deck Jacuzzis provide a superb spot to watch the dramatic scenery pass by. A fully equipped gym will keep you active on board and the ships’ cosy library provides a great place to relax. To enable both water-based exploration and landings in otherwise inaccessible areas, small Zodiac boats ensure a safe trip from ship to shore.

Unlike larger cruise ships, this smaller, sleek ship offers an authentic sailing experience with an intimate crew of 12. Originally built as a herring lugger, the Rembrandt Van Rijn vessel underwent a complete rebuilding and refurbishment in 2011. Stay in one of 16 cabins each fitted with shower and toilet and relax in the spacious restaurant, bar and dining areas. The ship is perfectly suited for expedition cruising among small islands and offers excellent open deck viewing areas even when under sail. Hop aboard one of the 2 Zodiac boats on board to land in otherwise inaccessible areas for wildlife viewing opportunities.

Expeditions include breakfast, lunch and dinner on each ship. On board the M/V Sea Spirit, you can dine on contemporary international cuisine in the restaurant and enjoy 360 degree views at the outdoor bistro which offers lighter meals including hamburgers, soups and salads. Dinners vary between buffets and set meals, planned around seasonal ingredients, taking advantage of local produce. Self surface tea and coffee are complimentary on both the M/V Sea Spirit and the S/V Rembrandt Van Rijn and other beverages during the day can be purchased in the restaurants, cafeterias and bars on the M/V Sea Spirit.

Bear Facts The highlight of any voyage to Spitsbergen or Northern Greenland is seeing polar bears in their natural habitat. These impressive Arctic giants can weigh up to 1,200 pounds and feed mostly on seals which rest on the sheet ice. In 2008 the polar bear was listed as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act, which cited sea ice losses from global warming as the single biggest threat. Scientists predict that unless we take action to stop climate change, we will lose two-thirds of polar bears by the middle of the century and all of them by the end of the century. www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Arctic Expedition Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Polar Bear In Svalbard

Best of Svalbard Join this incredible voyage and, weather permitting, travel above the 80th parallel in this circumnavigation of the largest island in Svalbard on board of the M/V Sea Spirit. Explore the great eastern nature reserves, established to protect some of the most pristine High Arctic landscapes on Earth, where Polar bears roam the Arctic wilderness and whales and walrus search for the next meal below the ice.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Arctic Expedition Specialist for more information Day 1 Fly to Longyearbyen | Arrive in Longyearbyen, the administrative capital of the Spitsbergen archipelago, and begin your cruise on the M/V Sea Spirit. Spend the evening learning about the ship and how to explore the region ethically. Get the latest prognosis from the Master and the Expedition Leader on the weather and ice situation. (D) Day 2 North West Spitsbergen National Park | Discover the frozen landscapes of the North West Corner, scattered with islands, fjords and beaches. Conditions permitting, visit Kongsfjorden, the largest fjord on the North West coast of Spitsbergen, and Ny Ålesund, one of the world’s northernmost year-round communities, now an advanced High Arctic research station. (B,L,D) Day 3 Andøya Island & Monaco Glacier | In Andøya Island, go for a walk to observe the tundra landscapes. In front of the dramatically crevassed Monaco Glacier, calved ice crashes into the sea drawing huge numbers of sea birds. (B,L,D) Days 4 & 5 Phippsøya Island | Cruise to Phippsøya Island, the largest of Seven Islands archipelago. Spend two days in the pack ice and look out for walruses and polar bears. (B,L,D)

Day 6 Alkefjellet | At the spectacular bird cliffs of Alkefjellet, 1,000ft spires rise directly from the sea, creating the perfect nesting conditions for species like the Brunnichs guillemot. (B,L,D)

Day 7 Nordaustlandet Island | Sail to Nordaustlandet Island, where it may be possible to land at Augustabukta and Torrelneset – home to rendeers, breeding ivory gulls and walruses. (B,L,D) Day 8 Barentsøya & Edgeøya Island | Land at Sundneset on Barentsøya Island and admire the stunning view over lakes where flocks of geese and some Red-throated divers slowly swim in loops in safety from Arctic foxes. Visit an old trapper’s hut served as a base for Julius Budel’s expeditions, witness the remains of the early whaling and walrus industry in the 16th century and follow the traces of the Pomors’ presence. (B,L,D) Day 9 South Spitsbergen | Reach the breathtaking towering mountain peaks of Horsund. Enjoy its alpine landscape with the majestic Hornsundtinden soaring highest of all. (B,L,D) Day 10 Ahlstrandhalvøya Island | Land on Ahlstrandhalvøya Island just inside the entrance to Bellsund fjord. Walk along the tundra plain covered with flowering purple saxifrage. En route enjoy a spectacular view of Bellsund and the surrounding mountains. (B,L,D)

Day 11 Fly to the UK | The voyage comes to an end in Longyearbyen. Transfer to the airport for the return flight to the UK. (B)

Holiday duration

11 days

Holiday type

Cruise Guided

Departure date

20 Jul 2016 21 Aug 2016

Prices from

£3750 per person

Includes accommodation and transfers

Arctic Voyages

Greenland, Iceland & Spitsbergen Experience some of the world’s most remote and pristine national parks on this voyage from Spitsbergen to Iceland. Tack south along the coastline of the largest and least visited national park on Earth – North East Greenland National Park – with its untouched landscape of deep fjords and towering mountains and experience life in Greenland’s most isolated town, where trappers survive only by hunting and fishing.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Arctic Expedition Specialist for more information Day 1 Fly to Longyearbyen | Fly to Longyearbyen, the administrative capital of the Spitsbergen archipelago, and visit the Polar Museum. Board the M/V Sea Spirit in the afternoon and keep an eye out for whales as you sail out of Isfjorden. (D) Day 2 North West Spitsbergen National Park | Discover the frozen landscapes of the North West Corner, scattered with islands, fjords and beaches. Conditions permitting, visit Kongsfjorden, the largest fjord on the North West coast of Spitsbergen, and Ny Ålesund, one of the world’s northernmost year-round communities, now an advanced High Arctic research station. (B,L,D) Days 3 & 4 At Sea | Cross the Fram Strait to the northern part of Greenland. Whilst on the ship, why not visit lectures and presentations by our expedition team, relax in the cosy lounge or warm up your muscles in the onboard gym. (B,L,D) Days 5-7 North East Greenland National Park | North East Greenland National Park is the largest national park on Earth, at around 900,000km², where the alpine mountains rise out of the largest fjord systems in the world to an altitude of more than 2,500m above sea

level. Valleys are scattered with musk oxen and the all-white Arctic hare, the Arctic fox, the Greenland falcon and snowy owls are also often spotted. (B,L,D) Days 8 & 11 Ittoqqortoormiit | The most isolated town in Greenland; trappers living in Ittoqqortoormiit are the only people allowed to hunt within the National Park. Explore the town, museum and church. This is the largest and some say, most beautiful fjord system in the world. (B,L,D) Day 12 Ísafjörður | The capital of Iceland’s Westfjords, Ísafjörður was for centuries a major centre of the fish industry. Discover fine examples of timber houses built by wealthy foreign traders in the 18th century. Through time Ísafjörður has also played a significant role in Iceland’s national history and is still one of the most vibrant cultural centres in the country. (B,L,D)

Holiday duration

14 days

Holiday type

Cruise Guided

Departure date

31 Aug 2016

Prices from

£4965 per person

Includes accommodation and transfers

Day 13 Grundarfjördur | Visit the attractive town of Grundarfjördur, a wonderful working fishing town. (B,L,D) Day 14 Reykjavík to UK | Disembark in Reykjavík, from where you will fly back to the UK. (B)

87 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Arctic Expedition Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Glacier

Longyearbyen & Franz Josef This unusual, yet remarkable voyage takes you to some of the Arctic’s most remote regions. Encounter archipelagos still relatively unexplored. Steeped in history and rich in wildlife, the islands that make up Svalbard and Franz Josef Land are an ideal location for those wanting to get off-the-beaten-track and get a taste for the experiences of the earliest polar explorers.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Arctic Expedition Specialist for more information Day 1 UK to Longyearbyen | Fly to Longyearbyen, the administrative capital of the Spitsbergen archipelago, and visit the Polar Museum. Board the M/V Sea Spirit in the afternoon and keep an eye out for whales as you sail out of Isfjorden. (D) Days 2 & 3 At Sea | Spend cruising time listening to lectures on the area from the expedition team. (B,L,D) Days 4-9 Franz Josef Land Archipelago | Discover the uninhabited Franz Josef Land Archipelago high in the Russian Arctic that consists of 191 ice-covered islands. Possible landing sites are: Cape Flora and Bell Island – Cape Flora on Northbrook Island was discovered by the Lee Smith expedition in 1880. Visit remnants of the Jackson expedition whose extensive settlement is still largely intact. The towering cliffs at the southern part of Cape Flora are home to huge sea birds colonies and Arctic foxes. Land at Bell Island and hike to the well-preserved house built by the Lee Smith expedition of 1881.

Cape Tegetthoff – at Hall Island is a haven for photographers: huge cliffs resembling sharks’ dorsal fins emerge from the sea. Visit the remains of the wooden structures built by the American Wellman Expedition of 1898-1899 aimed to reach the North Pole. Look out for polar bears in this area.

Cape Fligley & Cape Norway – Cape Fligley is the most northern part of Europe, reaching further north than Spitsbergen. Almost entirely ice-covered, temperatures only rise above freezing for a few weeks each summer. A variety of arctic flora is found in this area, making it particularly interesting for botanists. From 1895-1896 explorers Nansen and Johansen wintered here for over seven months after a failed attempt to conquer the North Pole. Visit the remains of their primitive hut whilst on the lookout for polar bears, belugas and narwhals. Champ Island & Alger Island – Champ Island boasts the highest peaks in the entire archipelago. Marvel at the spherical stones of up to 10 ft (3 m) in diameter dotting the landscape. Visit Alger Island where the remains Camp Ziegler can be found. (B,L,D) Hooker Bay – Visit nesting sea birds at Rubini Rock, visit a derelict polar station in the bay and keep your eyes peeled for bowhead whales. (B,L,D) Days 10 & 11 At Sea | Enjoy lectures on the unique Arctic wildlife and the dramatic landscapes of Spitsbergen. (B,L,D) Days 12 & 13 Spitsbergen | Visit Ny Ålesund, Krossfjorden, Glacier of 14th of July, Signehamna, Lillehoekbreen, St. Jonsfjorden and Alkehornet (B,L,D) Day 14 Longyearbyen to UK | Disembark in Longyearbyen and transfer to the airport for your flight back to the UK. (B)

Holiday duration

14 days

Holiday type

Cruise Guided

Departure dates

7 & 30 Jul 2016

Prices from

£4965 per person

Includes accommodation and transfers

Arctic Voyages

Rembrandt Van Rijn

South Greenland From deep fjords and towering mountains, to tiny coast-clinging fishing villages with coloured wooden houses, discover the Arctic South of Greenland on this journey on board the S/V Rembrandt Van Rijn. Stop at small settlements rarely visited by tourists for a privileged insight into the traditional lives of local people, bathe in large hot springs surrounded by icebergs and uncover the remains of Viking settlers.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Arctic Expedition Specialist for more information Day 1 Fly to Narsaruaq | Fly from Reykjavik to Narsarsuaq and board the majestic S/V Rembrandt Van Rijn ship. Originally built as a herring lugger, the vessel underwent a complete rebuild and refurbishment programme in 2011. The ship is perfectly suited for expedition cruising among small islands and its large open deck areas are great for viewing the landscapes drifting by. With an experienced crew and two tour guides on board you will be in fantastic, knowledgeable hands for your Greenland voyage. (D) Day 2 Isafjord | In the morning cruise to Nordre Sermilik (Isafjord) which is surrounded by stunning mountains of over 1,000 m. Land on Eqaluit qeqertat to visit an old Thule settlement, and sail as far as the icebergs will allow you, to the glacier front of Eqalorutsit Kangidlit Sermiat. (B,L,D) Day 3 Bredefjord | Cruise to Bredefjord at Qornooq, a small uninhabited fishing village and land in an area with beautiful houses from the Thule culture. Continue sailing to the beautiful glacier fronts of Qaleralik Sermia. Here, we will take zodiac boats and land near the glacier, making sure to look out for the White-tailed Eagles. (B,L,D) Day 4 Lichteneau | Cruise to Lichtenau – a lovely but nearly deserted Greenlandic

village – where you can view the remains of some of the Herrnhuters’ buildings from their mission in the 18th century. Bathe in a large hot spring surrounded by towering icebergs in Uunartoq and uncover the remains of a Viking homestead in Vagar. (B,L,D) Day 5 Herjolfsnes | Herjolfsnes (Ikigait) was A Norse settlement, located approximately 50 km northwest of Cape Farewell. It was also the first landfall site for the Vikings in Greenland when they arrived from Iceland. Explore the small settlement of Fredriksdal, where the Moravians had an important mission post.

Holiday duration

8 days

(B,L,D)

Holiday type

Cruise Guided

Departure dates

2, 16 & 30 Jul 6 Aug

Prices from

£1435 per person

Day 6 Hvalsey | Land in Hvalsey, the site of Greenland’s largest, best-preserved Norse ruins in the area known as the Eastern Settlement. Visit the famous medieval Norse Cathedral, the largest Norse building in Greenland. (B,L,D)

Includes accommodation and transfers

Day 7 Eriksfjord | Land in Eriksfjord and walk through the Viking sites of Gardar and Brattahlíð (approx 3 kilometres), where Erik the Red lived about a thousand years ago. In the evening, arrive in port Narsarsuaq. (B,L,D) Day 8 Fly to Reykjavik | Transfer to the airport for your scheduled flight to Reykjavik. (B)

89 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Arctic Expedition Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Specialists in the Alternative for over 40 years Our Brochure Collection

Iceland & the Arctic Winter

Alternative Asia

ICELAND

CENTRAL ASIA | MONGOLIA

GREENLAND

CHINA | TAIWAN | BHUTAN

LAPLAND

NORTH KOREA | SOUTH KOREA

FINLAND

BURMA | INDOCHINA

NORWAY

BORNEO | INDONESIA PAPUA NEW GUINEA

This collection of Regent’s favourite hotels, tours and experiences is designed with Aurora hunting in mind. Whether you want to chase the mystical northern lights in a jeep designed for adventure, race across the icy wilderness on a sledge pulled by huskies, drift off to sleep in a cosy glass igloo or relax in the healing waters of the Blue Lagoon, our Iceland & the Arctic Specialists can book your ideal winter holiday.

Perfect for those who want to travel further afield, this brochure features inspirational content and travel tips. From exploring Taiwan by train, hiking the hills in Bhutan, discovering the secret world of North Korea or sampling Sichuan cuisine in China you’ll find a selection of our favourite group tours, tailor-made holidays and alternative short breaks inside as well as our brand-new destination Papua New Guinea.

Russia & Europe The Alternative Collection

Small Group Tours

ALBANIA | AUSTRIA | BELARUS | BOSNIA-HERZEGOVINA

ALBANIA | AZORES | BALTICS | BALKANS | BAM RAILWAY

BULGARIA | CROATIA | CZECH REPUBLIC | ESTONIA

BELARUS | BHUTAN | BORNEO | BOSNIA | BURMA

GERMANY | HUNGARY | KOSOVO | LATVIA | LITHUANIA

FAROE ISLANDS | KAZAKHSTAN | MACEDONIA | MOLDOVA

MACEDONIA | MOLDOVA | MONTENEGRO | POLAND

MONTENEGRO | NAGORNO KARABAKH | NORTH KOREA

ROMANIA | RUSSIA | SERBIA | SLOVAKIA | SLOVENIA

PAPUA NEW GUINEA | RUSSIA | ROMANIA | SERBIA | SLOVENIA

TRANS-SIBERIAN RAILWAY | TURKEY | UKRAINE

TAJIKISTAN | TURKMENISTAN | UKRAINE | UZBEKISTAN

From the ornate cupolas of St Petersburg to the Ottoman treasures of Mostar, discover the hidden gems of Russia and Europe. Whether you want to journey through the heart of Russia on the Trans-Siberian Railway, discover the history and culture of the Balkans and Baltics or just try a different city break, you’ll find a collection of our favourite group tours, tailor-made holidays, fly-drives and short breaks inside.

Our small group tours brochure features pioneering tours designed by our destination experts that will send you off-the-beaten-track. In this collection you will find group tours to Papua New Guinea, one of the world’s last great frontiers, as well as cultural journeys through Russia’s Sayan Mountain Range to the mysterious Republic of Tuva, and a journey through remotest Siberia on the BAM Railway.

91 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293

Booking Conditions Please read these Terms and Conditions carefully. They contain important information about your holiday contract. Regent Holidays specialise in travel to unusual destinations, many of which still remain relatively underdeveloped and without the facilities and service levels found in western European countries. When you book an alternative holiday with us we will of course do everything we can to provide you with a holiday exactly to your specification, however it is important to understand that this type of travel carries the risk that accommodation, transportation schedules and other parts of the holiday may be subject to local alterations beyond our control and occurring at short notice. You may also find that standards are lower than you have come to expect and we ask that you take this into consideration before booking. 1. CONTRACT Your contract is with Regent Holidays, a brand of ITC Luxury Travel Group Limited, Concorde House, Canal Street, Chester, UK, CH1 4EJ, company registration number 8687765. Referred to as “the company”, “we”, “us” and “our” in this contract. They only apply to holiday arrangements which you book with us in the UK and which we agree to make, provide or perform (as applicable) as part of our contract with you. All references in these booking conditions to “holiday”, “booking”, “contract”, “package”, “tour” or “arrangements” mean such holiday arrangements unless otherwise stated. A binding contract is only entered into when we issue a confirmation invoice. By contacting us or your travel agent to make a booking you accept that you have the authority to bind all members of your party to these terms and conditions. It is essential that you check the travel details on the confirmation invoice and inform us immediately of any errors. Your booking is also subject to the conditions of carriage of your chosen airline. 2. YOUR FINANCIAL PROTECTION We hold an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL number 2786). When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday from us you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong.” We, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL Certificate, will provide you with the services listed on the ATOL Certificate (or a suitable alternative). In some cases, where neither we nor the supplier are able to do so for reasons of insolvency, an alternative ATOL holder may provide you with the services you have bought or a suitable alternative (at no extra cost to you). You agree to accept that in those circumstances the alternative ATOL holder will perform those obligations and you agree to pay any money outstanding to be paid by you under your contract to that alternative ATOL holder. However, you also agree that in some cases it will not be possible to appoint an alternative ATOL holder, in which case you will be entitled to make a claim under the ATOL scheme (or your credit card issuer where applicable). If we, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL certificate, are unable to provide the services listed (or a suitable alternative, through an alternative ATOL holder or otherwise) for reasons of insolvency, the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust may make a payment to (or confer a benefit on) you under the ATOL scheme. You agree that in return for such a payment or benefit you assign absolutely to those Trustees any claims which you have or may have arising out of or relating to the non-provision of the services, including any claim against us, the travel agent (or your credit card issuer where applicable). You also agree that any such claims may be re-assigned to another body, if that other body has paid sums you have claimed under the ATOL scheme. We are also a member of ABTA (ABTA number V2359). If your holiday does not include flights, ABTA will financially protect your holiday by ensuring you receive a refund or, if your arrangements include return travel to the UK (other than flights) you are returned to the UK in the event that your holiday cannot be provided as a result of our insolvency. Please go to www.abta.com for a copy of the guide to ABTA’s scheme of Financial Protection. 3. PRICE POLICY All prices advertised or quoted are per person based on sharing a twin/double room and are in pounds sterling unless otherwise shown and are subject to change, up or down, until the booking is confirmed. After that, we will only increase the price in limited circumstances to reflect increases in transportation costs (including fuel and airfares), dues, government approved taxes (including VAT), both in the UK and overseas, fees chargeable for services (including landing taxes and embarkation and disembarkation and security fees at airports), Government action or exchange rate variation. If the surcharge would increase the cost of your holiday by 10% or more, you may cancel your holiday and receive a full refund. We will absorb the cost, and you will not be charged, of any increase equivalent to or up to 2% of the original price of your holiday (excluding amendment fees). No surcharges will be made within 30 days of departure. Prices in this brochure were calculated at the exchange rate of £1 = €1.35 and £1 = USD1.56. 4. TRAVEL INSURANCE Your holiday package with us does NOT include travel insurance and we believe that it is essential to take out comprehensive travel insurance when you go on holiday and we strongly recommend that to do so is in your interests and those of your family. We also ask that you provide us with the details of your insurer, the policy number and the emergency contact details to assist you in the event of an accident or emergency abroad. It will be necessary for you to comply with the requirements of the policy in the event of a potential claim; e.g. reporting a theft to the local police. Please read your policy details carefully and take them with you on holiday. It is your responsibility to ensure that the insurance cover you purchase is suitable and adequate for your particular needs. 5. PAYMENT FOR YOUR HOLIDAY Your deposit is considered part payment towards your holiday. The exact deposit required shall be made clear at time of quotation/ booking. On occasion full payment may be required to secure certain elements of your trip; if this does arise we shall inform you of this at time of booking. Deposits are non-refundable and as such are a security towards confirming your holiday. Normally the balance and final payment should be made no less than eight weeks prior to departure. However, on occasion some components and/or destinations may require final payment no less than 90 days prior to departure, in which case you shall be informed of this at time of booking. If any balance remains unpaid, travel documentation will not be issued and we reserve the right to treat your booking as cancelled and apply the cancellation charges set out below. Final travel documents will normally be sent out approximately two weeks before departure. All money paid to a travel agent will be held by the agent on our behalf. Payment must be in the currency of the invoice and you are responsible for bank charges. Full payment, deposits and balances made with a credit or charge card (switch and debit cards excluded) will automatically incur an additional 2% charge and 2.5% for Amex of the payment. 6. BROCURE AND WEBSITE ACCURACY Whilst we make every effort to ensure that the information in our brochure is as accurate as possible, it is published many months before your holiday takes place. We reserve the right to make changes to the brochure and any information it contains. You will be informed of any material changes before booking. Regent Holidays are only responsible for information contained within our own publications and websites. We are specifically not responsible for third party information (from tourist boards and hotels for example) contained in any other brochures or websites. 7. AMENDMENT AND CANCELLATION BY YOU (A) AMENDMENT We will do our best to assist you in altering your arrangements after booking but cannot guarantee that this will be possible. If alterations can be made you will be responsible for all extra charges and costs and we reserve the right to charge an administration fee of £50 per booking plus any applicable charges levied by our suppliers. In some cases, flights cannot be changed after booking and the full cost of a new air ticket will be payable. We also reserve the right to treat any amendment less than eight weeks prior to departure as a cancellation and apply the cancellation charges set out below. (B) CANCELLATION All cancellations must be made in writing by the person who made the booking and are effective on the day we receive it. As we incur substantial costs and losses on a cancellation, we will apply the following cancellation charges based on payment/balance date of eight weeks prior to departure. For those bookings where additional amounts were paid in excess of the standard deposit at the time of booking or before the standard balance due date, these shall be considered non refundable. Number of days prior to departure Cancellation charge as percentage of total holiday price when cancellation notice received Up to 56 days 55-43 Days 42-31 Days 30 Days or less

Forfeit deposit 50% 75% 100%

Agents or third party organisations acting on our behalf are unable to amend or change the contract or terms and conditions within it. 8. AMENDMENT AND CANCELLATION BY US (A) AMENDMENTS It is occasionally necessary for us to make changes to advertised products and services and we reserve the right to make such changes. In exceptional circumstances we may have to modify your holiday after booking. If the change is minor we will do our best to notify you in advance but are not obliged to do so and no compensation is payable. If the change is material (for example, a change of flight time by more than twelve hours, change of destination or to a lower standard of accommodation), we will notify you as soon as practically possible and offer you the choice of (i) accepting the alternative arrangements or (ii) arranging an alternative holiday with us or (iii) cancelling your holiday. Whichever option you choose we will pay you compensation unless the change has been caused by force majeure or low bookings as defined below.

Days before departure 57 56-29 28-15 14-0

Compensation per person Nil £40 £50 £70

(B) CHANGES DURING THE HOLIDAY If we are unable to provide a significant proportion of your holiday whilst you are away, suitable alternative arrangements will be made for you at no extra cost or, if we are unable to do so, you will be returned to your point of departure and given a pro-rata refund for any part of the holiday not received. This does not apply to minor changes in your accommodation, itinerary or transportation. (C) CANCELLATION BY US Whilst we hope we will never have to cancel your holiday, this does very occasionally happen and we reserve the right to do so. Should it be necessary to cancel your holiday we will endeavour to offer alternative travel arrangements of equivalent or similar standard, together with a price refund if appropriate. Alternatively we will provide a full and prompt refund. (D) FORCE MAJEURE Compensation will not be payable in any cases where an amendment, change or cancellation is due to “force majeure”, defined as unusual or unforeseeable events or circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which neither we nor our suppliers could avoid. These include, but are not limited to, war, threat of war, riot, civil disturbance or strife, terrorist activity (actual or threatened), industrial disputes, technical or maintenance problems with transport, machinery or equipment, power failure, natural or nuclear disaster, fire, flood, drought, adverse weather conditions, levels of water in rivers, acts of God, closure of airports, changes of schedules or operational decisions of transport providers. (E) LOW BOOKINGS Compensation is not payable if a holiday or tour does not take place because a required minimum number of passengers to enable the holiday or tour to take place has not been reached and you were informed of that requirement at the time of booking. We will notify you at least eight weeks before departure if your holiday has not reached the minimum number and is therefore cancelled and where possible we will offer a similar holiday on a different date or an alternative holiday departing at or around the original date. 9. OUR RESPONSIBILITIES TO YOU We take care to ensure that all involved in the preparation and supply of your holiday maintain the highest standards. Please remember that the appropriate standards will be those prevalent in your destination which may not be the same as developed international standards. We will pay reasonable compensation (subject to below) if the product supplied to you is not of the standard described or contracted for by you. This compensation will be limited (except in the case of death or injury) to no more than twice the holiday price of the person affected. Should you suffer injury, illness or death as a result of the proven fault of ourselves, our suppliers or their employees acting in the course of their employment we will offer you compensation as would be paid in an English Court. If the incident relating to you or any member of your party being killed, injured or becoming ill during or as a result of, carriage by aircraft, ship, train or coach as part of the holiday arrangements organised by us our liability to pay compensation is limited in accordance with the liability of the carrier/service provider under any international convention which governs such services. Copies of these Conventions are available upon request. Our liability to you does not apply if you or any member of your group is at fault; if the failure is the fault of someone else not connected with providing the services which form part of our holiday contract with you; the failure is due to any unusual or unexpected circumstances beyond our control, which we could not have avoided even if we had used all care possible or the failure is due to any event which we or the supplier of any service could not help, expect or prevent. Any acceptance of liability is subject to you agreeing to assign to us your rights against any third party responsible for the events leading to your claim and to you affording us all necessary assistance in pursuing that claim. 10. COMPLAINTS AND ABTA ARBITRATION Whilst we aim to ensure that your holiday runs smoothly, there may be times when it does not. Please follow the complaints procedure below to minimise inconvenience to all parties: 1. Any complaint should be reported immediately and directly to the supplier and, as soon as possible, to our local representative (where applicable). If you fail to follow this simple procedure, your right to claim compensation may be affected, as we will have been deprived of the opportunity to investigate and rectify the problem. 2. In the unlikely event that neither our representative nor our supplier is able to resolve the matter to your complete satisfaction, please put in writing the details of your complaint to us either at our address or by email regent@regent-holidays.co.uk 3. Once in receipt of a complaint, we will react swiftly to resolve the matter. Our aim is to rectify any shortcomings immediately, so that you can fully enjoy the remainder of your holiday. If you still have cause for complaint on your return to the UK, you are required to seek satisfaction by writing to the Company within 28 days of the end of your holiday and providing full details of the holiday and the reason for dissatisfaction. We regret that we cannot accept liability in relation to any complaint or claim which is not notified entirely in accordance with this clause. Disputes arising out of, or in connection with your booking which cannot be amicably settled may be referred to arbitration if you so wish under a special scheme arranged by ABTA Ltd and administered independently. The scheme provides for a simple and inexpensive method of arbitration on documents alone with restricted liability on the customer in respect of costs. Full details will be provided on request or can be obtained from the ABTA website (www.abta.com). The scheme does not apply to claims for an amount greater than £5,000 per person. There is also a limit of £25,000 per booking. Neither does it apply to claims which are solely in respect of physical injury or illness or their consequences. The scheme can however deal with compensation claims which include an element of minor injury or illness subject to a limit of £1,500 on the amount the arbitrator can award per person in respect of this element. Your application for arbitration and other required documents must be received by ABTA within 18 months of your return from the holiday. Outside this time limit arbitration under the scheme may still be available if we agree, although the ABTA Code does not require such agreement. For injury and illness claims, you can request the ABTA mediation procedure and we have the option to agree to this. Where we act as agent, please bear in mind that your contract is with the supplier of the arrangements concerned. Unless the supplier is also a member of ABTA, only disputes relating to our actions as agent can be dealt with by the arbitration scheme or mediation procedure and not complaints about the arrangements themselves or the acts/ omissions of the supplier. 11. PASSPORTS, VISAS AND OTHER ESSENTIAL DOCUMENTATION It is your responsibility to ensure that all necessary passports are machine readable. You should also ensure that all necessary visas, international driving licences, vaccinations and other health documents are in order. All passports must have a validity of at least six months from your scheduled return date to the UK. You will generally need clear/clean pages for visas, as required, to be inserted. You must read all documentation that is supplied to you and ensure that all information contained within is correct. Failure to do so may incur amendment charges which are your responsibility. Some countries and airlines now require additional passenger information (API). We will inform you which countries require this information. This information is compulsory and is required by authorities. It is essential that all clients provide the API prior to travelling. Failure to provide this information may result in you being denied boarding for your flight. No refund will be permitted and any additional costs will be borne by the named clients. 12. SPECIAL REQUESTS Whilst we will endeavour to comply with any special requests such as airline seating, diets and room requirements, we can only do so on a “goodwill” basis. As these are usually only provided at the discretion of the relevant supplier, we cannot guarantee availability and cannot be held responsible if they are not provided. 13. MEALS All pre-booked meals on our group tours will be on table d’hôte basis, Supplements can apply for à la carte basis. 14. EXCURSIONS AND ACTIVITIES We are only responsible for excursions and activities sold by us prior to departure and which form part of your holiday contract. Should you purchase excursions in the destination, your contract and any liability arising from it will be with the supplier directly. 15. JURISDICTION We both agree that English law (and no other) will apply to your contract and to any dispute, claim or other matter of any description which arises between us (“claim”) except as set out below. We both also agree that any claim must be dealt with by the ABTA arbitration scheme referred to above or Courts of England and Wales only unless, in the case of Court proceedings, you live in Scotland or Northern Ireland. In this case, proceedings must either be brought in the Courts of your home country or those of England and Wales. If proceedings are brought in Scotland or Northern Ireland, you may choose to have your contract and any claim governed by the law of Scotland/Northern Ireland as applicable (but if you do not so choose, English law will apply). 16. DATA PROTECTION POLICY In order for us to process your booking we need to store and record your information, including data as supplied. This may include transfer of such information outside of the European Economic Area to parties involved in the arrangements of your holiday. Equally we use such information for updating our mailing lists, for fraud prevention, market research and analysis and from time to time you may receive travel related information from us or from another company from within ITC Luxury Travel Group Ltd. Should you not wish to receive such literature please advise us in writing. 17. UK FOREIGN OFFICE ADVICE ON OVERSEAS TRAVEL The Foreign & Commonwealth Office produces up-to-date travel information to help British travellers make informed decisions about travelling abroad. For further information please visit www.fco.gov.uk/knowbeforeyougo or telephone 0870 606 0290. For full terms and conditions please visit our website Registered in England, number 8687765 4 Red Lion Court, Alexandra Road, Hounslow, TW3 1JS © Western and Oriental Travel Limited All rights reserved. Date of issue November 2015

Talk to a Travel Specialist on 020 7666 1293 | www.regentholidays.co.uk

Contents 2

Iceland

68 Finland

South Iceland

72 Glamping in the Midnight Sun

West Iceland & the Westfjords

73 Culture & Cuisine of Finland

North Iceland

Wildlife Wilderness Fly-Drive

10 East Iceland

75 Bears, Wolves & Wildlife Adventure

12 Reykjavík

76 Norway

14 Reykjavík Excursions

80 North Cape & Land of the Midnight Sun

81 Unique Fjords & Glaciers Group Tour

The Blue Lagoon

15 Whale Watching

82 Flåm & Fjords Fly-Drive

16 Superjeep Excursions

83 Spitsbergen Summer Break

17 Coach Excursions

84 Arctic Cruises

18 Active Excursions 19

Horse Riding Excursions

86 Best of Svalbard

20 Reykjavík City Breaks

87 Greenland, Iceland & Spitsbergen

20 Best Western & Hotel Centrum

88 Longyearbyen & Franz Josef

21 Radisson Blu & Center Hotel Plaza

89 South Greenland

22 Icelandair Marina & Borg

92 Booking Conditions

23 Reykjavík Residence & Reykjavík4you

24 Short Breaks 24

Landscapes & Lagoons

25 Iceland Superjeep Adventure 26 Hotel Rangá 27 Hotel Grímsborgir

28 Fly-Drive Holidays 30 Iceland South & West 31 Iceland Express 32 Iceland Full Circle 33 Iceland Encompassed 34 Iceland Family Encounter

36 Group Tours 38 Iceland Complete 39 Volcanoes & Glaciers 40 Across the Wilderness 41

Grand Tour of Iceland

42 Greenland 44 South Greenland 46 Explore South Greenland 47 Greenland Coastal Voyage

ICELANDAIR A TRULY ICELANDIC TRAVEL EXPERIENCE ICELANDAIR A TRULY ICELANDIC TRAVEL EXPERIENCE

48 West Greenland 50 From Fire to Ice 51

Ilulissat Summer Break

52 Faroe Islands 56 Faroe Islands In Depth 57 Island Explorer Fly-Drive 58 Faroe Islands Experience 59

Tórshavn City Breaks

60 Azores 64 Explore the Azores 65 Beyond the Volcano Fly-Drive 66 Walking inside Volcanoes 67 Sao Miguel Holiday

Iceland

FLY-DRIVE

WILDERNESS ADVENTURE FJORDS

ICELAND

& the Islands Summer 2016

ICEBERG

FAROE ISLANDS

VOLCANO

REYKJAVIK

LAPLAND MIDNIGHT SUN SCANDINAVIA

AZORES SUMMER GREENLAND GROUP TOUR

NORWAY REINDEER GLAMPING BLUE LAGOON

GEYSER

SPITSBERGEN

LAKES

ICE CAP

POLAR BEAR SUMMER SOLSTICE

020 7666 1293 www.regent-holidays.co.uk Part of ITC Luxury Travel Group Limited.

Iceland & the Islands Summer 2016

FINLAND

RAILWAY

LIGHTHOUSE

ARCTIC CRUISE

GLACIER

WATERFALLS

GOLDEN CIRCLE

SVALBARD

CITY BREAK