Iceland & the Arctic Winter 2016/17 by ITC Travel Group

Iceland

& the Arctic Winter 2016/17

NORTHERN LIGHTS | ICELAND | GREENLAND | LAPLAND | NORWAY

Contents 2

The Northern Lights

Iceland Group Tours

Iceland

Northern Lights Explorer

Reykjavík

Land of the Northern Lights

Reykjavík Excursions

Northern Lights & Winter Wellness

The Blue Lagoon

Northern Lights Hunt

Boat Tours

Northern Lights Deluxe

Coach Excursions

Classic Iceland Circle

Superjeep Excursions

Hidden Powers & Aurora

Excursions by Air

West Iceland Wonders

Active Excursions

Greenland

Reykjavík City Breaks

Aurora & Polar Circle Adventure

Best Western & Hotel Reykjavík Centrum

Northern Lights in Ilulissat

Radisson Blu 1919 & Radisson Blu Saga

Lapland

Icelandair Hotel Marina & Hilton Nordica

Lapland Winter Escape

Hotels Apotek & Borg

Nellim Wilderness Hotel

Fosshotels Reykjavík & Lind

Muotka Wilderness Lodge

Hotels Cabin & Klettur

Glamping Under the Northern Lights

CenterHotel Plaza & Arnarhvoll

Lapland Igloo & Ice Hotel

Alda Hotel & Reykjavík Residence

Lapland Wilderness Break

Black Pearl Apartments & Reykjavík4you Apartments

Lapland Log Cabin Break

South Iceland Winter Break

Arctic Riverside Retreat

Superjeep Winter Break

Lapland Boutique Break

North Iceland Highlights

Igloos & Auroras

North Iceland Aurora Break

Arctic TreeHouse Hotel

Iceland Fly-Drives

Arctic Light & City Hotel

Orcas & Auroras

Lapland Sky Hotel & Chalet Hotel

Northern Lights in Style

Norway

Hotel Rangá Short Break

Tromsø Short Break

Reykjavík & Hotel Rangá

Tromsø & Spitsbergen

Hotel Grímsborgir Short Break

Spitsbergen Polar Nights

Reykjavík & Hotel Grímsborgir

Arctic Panorama Lodge

Hotel ION Short Break

Ongajok Mountain Lodge

Aurora Road Trip

Images of Vesterålen

Hotel Stracta Short Break

Vesterålen Aurora & Whales

MInniborgir Cottage Break

Vistas of Vesterålen & Lofoten

Scenic Lofoten

Important Information

Booking Conditions

Lofoten Islands, Norway Cover image: Northern Lights in Iceland © powerofforever / Getty Images

Ask the Experts Welcome to our Iceland and the Arctic Winter brochure – a collection of Regent’s favourite hotels, in-depth group and tailor-made tours, and experiences 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 under the stars or watch the northern lights on horseback our experienced team of Iceland & the Arctic Explorers can craft the perfect winter holiday for you. At Regent, we have been organising holidays to this incredible region for over 40 years so there’s no one who knows Iceland and the Arctic like we do. Call us on 020 7666 1291 and speak to an expert for travel advice.

40 Years’ Experience

Specialist Knowledge

Regent Holidays were among the first UK tour operators to start sending travellers to Iceland back in 1975 and we’re proud to now have over 40 years’ experience behind our Iceland portfolio. In a country as unspoilt as this, we’re pleased to see that many of our much-loved natural highlights have remained unchanged – but with restaurants opening and thrilling experiences being unveiled each year, there’s always something new and different to see or do on every visit.

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.

Holidays Protected by ATOL Your financial protection is important to us, which is why we are fully bonded by ATOL. Our ATOL licence (10417) 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 which means that we are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct.

1 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Regent Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Experience the

Northern Lights From late autumn to early spring the northern skies come alive with the flickering neon lights of the aurora borealis â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the elusive northern lights which captivate both travellers and scientists alike. Caused by the collision of energy charged particles with atoms in the high altitude atmosphere, the result is a magical light show and once-in-a lifetime travel experience.

2 Aurora Safari, TromsĂ¸

How to Photograph the Northern Lights The ability to open the shutter for long periods of time is vital when it comes to photographing auroral displays â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a DSLR camera and tripod will provide the best results. In manual mode, open the aperture to f/2.8 (or as wide as it will go) and adjust the lens to focus at infinity. Depending on the movement of the celestial lights, an exposure of between five and thirty seconds will be required â&#x20AC;&#x201C; test a range of exposures to find the ideal setting. In cold conditions camera batteries do not last as long â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Regent recommends packing at least one spare. Speak to a specialist about photo excursions or tutorials in the Lofoten Islands, Norway.

3 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Regent Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Where & When to See the

Northern Lights For the best chance of seeing the northern lights, travel between late September and early April, between the autumn and spring equinoxes, when long nights prevail in the northern skies. Renowned for its elusive character as much as its astounding beauty, sightings of the ethereal light show can never be guaranteed â&#x20AC;&#x201C; however, Regentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s selection of winter tours and holidays have been carefully designed with aurora hunting in mind.

4 Northern Lights, Finland

Iceland

Lapland

Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts City centre hotels & countryside retreats

Best for: Adventure-seeking families Glass igloos, ice rooms & family-friendly hotels

With the whole country located within the all-important northern lights oval, Iceland comfortably boasts superb opportunities to witness the aurora. A land of volcanic and geothermal treasures, Iceland’s natural wonders have plenty to keep travellers entertained during daylight hours. Maximise chances of seeing the northern lights by heading into the countryside away from bright city lights. Regent recommends a stay at one of South Iceland’s boutique retreats, where aurora hunters can relax in outdoor hot tubs as the northern lights dance overhead

In Finnish Lapland the northern lights are visible on around 200 nights of the year – almost every clear night between September and April. Never miss a chance to see them by staying in a glass-ceilinged igloo with uninterrupted skyward views. Ideal for families, Lapland’s resort towns offer countless opportunities to explore the Lappish landscape by husky sled or reindeer sleigh. For the ultimate Lapland experience, visit Santa’s official home in Rovaniemi before heading out on a northern lights snowmobile safari across the winter landscape.

Greenland

Norway

Best for: Wilderness explorers Modern hotels on the edge of the world

Best for: Arctic adventurers Wilderness lodges & urban stays

Ancient legend passed down by the Inuit people of Greenland says that the northern lights are the spirits of the dead playing football with a walrus skull. Whatever the reason, witness the astonishing spectacle in Greenland’s only inland town, Kangerlussuaq, which boasts 300 nights of clear sky a year, or travel to UNESCO-listed Ilulissat, where the northern lights swirl over icebergs as tall as skyscrapers. Located 200 miles north of the Arctic Circle, the chances of seeing nature’s greatest light show in Ilulissat are extremely high

Travel into the Arctic Circle to the northern reaches of Norway, or even further to the Svalbard archipelago, for the best chance of seeing the northern lights. During the dark Polar Nights between late November and late January, the sun remains below the horizon and the aurora ribbons can be seen both day and night – take the opportunity in the Lofoten Islands to hike moonlit landscapes and snowmobile, husky sled, knit, horse ride or even play golf beneath the northern lights.

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Regent Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Welcome to

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 for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the incredible northern lights dancing across the night sky.

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, fly-drive packages and northern lights holidays.

6 Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Iceland

Iceland TRAVEL KNOWHOW Flight time from UK: Approx 3 hours (direct) Time zone: GMT Capital: Reykjavík Language: Icelandic Currency: Icelandic Króna Population: 328,000 ICELAND IN NUMBERS

30 6 1,142 10 8 40 Active volcanic systems

Million litres of water in the Blue Lagoon

Years of Viking history

Percent of the country covered by glaciers

Months a year of northern lights activity

Museums taking part in the Winter Lights Festival

For our full range of itineraries & group tours, visit our website or speak to a Regent Explorer on 020 7666 1291.

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 winter whale watching cruise from the historic harbour, discover the Golden Circle with its icy waterfalls and bubbling geysers, relax in the healing waters of the Blue Lagoon as day turns to night or perhaps even opt for an exhilarating snowmobile adventure on Langjökull glacier. Unlike your average European city break destination, the winter months bring an extra reason to visit – the colourful aurora borealis which lights up the northern skies from late September to early April. With the capital surrounded by snow-covered mountains, a Superjeep or coach tour will whisk you away from the bright city lights on a magical northern lights hunt after a busy day of sightseeing. 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 November and December, pottering in and out of the pretty wooden shops and galleries, and stopping for a hot chocolate to keep the cold at bay. Iceland is renowned for its beautiful wool and felt crafts and I always manage to come home with a unique Christmas gift or two.

Reykjavík

Regent Recommends Visit

Eat

Celebrate

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.

To keep their spirits high during the dark winter months, the people of Reykjavík look forward to a host of celebrations and festivals. Perhaps choose to travel in February when the capital welcomes the growing light with the Winter Lights Festival. Not to be missed are the New Year’s Eve celebrations where every family in the city comes out for an evening of music, dancing and one of the largest fireworks displays in the world. Travel on our three-night New Year’s Eve break and follow the fantastic end of year spectacle with a New Year’s Day visit to the Blue Lagoon for a rejuvenating soak in the healing geothermal waters. Ask an Iceland Specialist for more details.

Reykjavík City Breaks With over 40 years’ experience since our first foray into this magnificent country, Regent Holidays is a leading Iceland travel specialist. All of our city break prices shown include return flights in economy class with Icelandair from London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Manchester, Glasgow or Birmingham, all airport taxes, return airport transfers by the airport shuttle service and three nights’ accommodation with breakfast in a twin or double room at a Regent-recommended hotel.

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland & the Arctic Explorer on 020 7666 1291

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 pre-booking is required. Ask your Regent Iceland Specialist to book your Blue Lagoon excursion from Reykjavík, departing at 9am, 10am, 11am, 1pm, 4.15pm or 6.15pm.

Blue Lagoon Standard Price from £55 Includes pick up at Reykjavík hotel, return bus transfer and entrance to the Blue Lagoon.

Blue Lagoon Comfort Price from £66 Includes pick up at Reykjavík hotel, return bus transfer, entrance to the Blue Lagoon, use of a towel, drink from the Blue Café or in-water Lagoon Bar, trial pack of Blue Lagoon skin care products and algae mask (self applied).

Blue Lagoon Premium Price from £80 Includes pick up at Reykjavík hotel, return bus transfer, entrance to the Blue Lagoon, use of a towel, bathrobe and slippers, drink from the Blue Café or in-water Lagoon Bar, trial pack of Blue Lagoon skin care products, algae mask (self applied) and complimentary glass of sparkling wine if eating at LAVA Restaurant. Ask a Regent Iceland Specialist about arrival / departure transfers via the Blue Lagoon. (The Lagoon may be very busy at these times.) Please note that there are lockers at the Blue Lagoon to store personal items and a change of clothes etc. but storage for general luggage is not included in the excursion price. Luggage can be stored at the service house near the car park and a fee of 5 Euro per bag is payable locally for this.

Reykjavík Excursions

Humpback Whale Breaching

Boat Tours With more than 20 different types of cetacean recorded in the country’s surrounding waters, whale watching in Iceland is amongst the best in the world. In the winter months, vast shoals of herring and capelin attract humpback whales, killer whales, white-beaked dolphins and harbour porpoises to the waters of Faxaflói Bay. Depart Reykjavík Old Harbour on the Andrea, Iceland’s largest whale watching boat, for an educational and interactive whale watching tour. On clear winter evenings, sail away from the Reykjavík coastline in search of the aurora borealis over the North Atlantic Ocean. Unrestricted by roads, just fifteen to thirty minutes sailing time provides the perfect location to await the light show with the city lights as a glittering backdrop.

Winter Whale Watching

Northern Lights By Boat

Oct - Mar, daily 3 - 3.5 hours departing at 1pm Set sail in search of humpbacks, orcas and white-beaked dolphins on this winter whale watching tour. The friendly crew will guide you to the best places to spot the whales and enhance the experience with interesting facts about Iceland’s marine life. Warm floatable overalls are provided for your comfort and safety and hot drinks are available from the on-board café.

Mid-Sep - Mid-Apr, daily 2 - 2.5 hours departing at 9pm/10pm Wrap up in warm overalls for a northern lights hunt over the North Atlantic. Set sail from the downtown harbour and enjoy views back towards Reykjavík’s city lights and the surrounding mountains as you await the natural phenomenon. Knowledgeable guides provide an informative commentary as the lights dance overhead.

Prices from per person

2016-2017 Adult Child (7-15) Child (0-6)

£65 £33 FREE

Price includes pick up and drop off from most hotels and apartments in Reykjavik.

Our Promise Weather and sea conditions can be unpredictable during the winter months. Boat captains will make their decision to sail based on many years of experience, always keeping in mind passenger safety and comfort. If the northern lights boat tour is cancelled, but aurora conditions are favourable, we offer a replacement northern lights tour by bus, plus a chance to join the boat tour the next available day. If the tour does not operate by boat or bus during your stay due to weather conditions, we offer the opportunity to exchange your ticket for a winter whale watching tour or dinner and a welcome drink at the fabulous Kopar restaurant, close to the harbour. If you join the tour (by boat or bus) and there are no northern lights sightings you will be offered another ticket to join the northern lights tour on the next available day. Sightings cannot be guaranteed when it comes to wild animals. If your whale watching tour does not sight a whale, we offer you a free ticket to join the boat tour again on the next available day.

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland & the Arctic Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall in Winter

Coach Excursions With complimentary pick-up from your Reykjavík hotel, the world-famous characters of Iceland’s spectacular landscape are just a day trip away. Enjoying plenty of stops enroute, you’ll discover Iceland’s nature, history and geology on our popular coach excursions to some of the country’s most wonderful sights. Admire the famous ‘Golden Falls’ of the Golden Circle, take a stroll along a striking 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.

Prices from Northern Lights Mystery £38 Northern Lights Deluxe £83 Classic Golden Circle £55 Golden Circle Express £53 South Coast & Ice Hike £139 Prices are per adult. Children 11 and under travel FREE, children 12-17 travel HALF PRICE. Excluding South Coast and Glacial Hike, where minimum age is 14 years old and there is no discount for teenagers.

Speak to an Iceland Specialist to tailor-make the perfect excursion package to add to your Reykjavík city break.

Northern Lights Mystery

Northern Lights Deluxe

15 Sep - 15 Apr, daily 3-5 hours departing at 7pm/8pm/9pm Head out into the night in search of the dancing neon lights of the aurora borealis. Leave the civilisation and light pollution of Reykjavík behind and wrap up warm for a northern lights mystery tour, travelling to the best spots identified each day for aurora sightings. Departure subject to weather conditions.

15 Oct - 15 Mar, daily 6-8 hours departing at 7.30pm Experience the magical northern lights on a special extended tour which allows additional time for aurora viewing. Travel in comfort on a luxury coach with reclining seats and extra legroom, and enjoy complimentary hot drinks and blankets to keep warm. Departure subject to weather conditions.

Classic Golden Circle Year-round, daily 8.5 hours departing at 8.30am, 9.30am, 10.30am & 11.30am Join our most popular excursion to see where the North American and Eurasian continental plates drift apart. Travel in Þingvellir National Park, get up close to powerful Gullfoss waterfall and watch Strokkur geyser erupt twenty metres into the air. Visit Skálholt church, seat of religious and political power for 800 years.

Golden Circle Express

South Coast & Ice Hike

Year-round, daily 6 hours departing at 1pm, 4pm, 6pm Spend the morning at leisure before this excursion which visits scenic and historic Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall – where glacial melt water cascades down into the deep canyon – and the Geysir hot spring area. Walk amidst hissing steam vents, sulphurous mud pots and erupting geysers.

Year-round, daily 11 hours departing at 8.30am Discover the breathtaking sights of South Iceland on a journey to the volcanic coast. Walk behind magnificent Seljalandsfoss waterfall, take a stroll along Reynisfjara black sand beach and travel in the shadow of an active volcano. Round off the tour by embarking on a short hike on the ancient ice of Sólheimajökull glacier.

Reykjavík Excursions

Geysir Geothermal Fields

Game of Thrones

Gourmet Golden Circle

Prices from

Year-round, Tue, Thu, Sat 8 hours departing at 10am See for yourself why the producers of Game of Thrones picked Iceland’s dramatic landscapes as the film sets for the series. With expert commentary throughout, visit the stomping ground of the White Walkers on a visit to Þingvellir National Park and walk around the Settlement Era Viking Lodge in Þjórsárdalur Valley where many scenes where shot.

1 Sep - 14 May, Sat 8-9 hours departing at 9.30am Embark on a gastronomic tour of the Golden Circle, combining the scenic highlights with samples of delicious local specialities along the way. Stop for lunch at Efsti dalur farm to tuck into fresh, sweet tomatoes and mouth-watering chutneys at Friðheimar geothermal greenhouse and enjoy a traditional sweet treat at Íslenski Bærinn Turf House.

Game of Thrones £59 Gourmet Golden Circle £137 adult £103 child (under 11) Reykjavík Sightseeing £33 Reykjavík & Golden Circle £82 Lagoon & Golden Circle £74* Lava Caves & Blue Lagoon £79* Reykjavík & Blue Lagoon £52*

Reykjavík Sightseeing

Reykjavík & Golden Circle

Lagoon & Golden Circle

Year-round, daily 2.5 hours departing at 9am Discover all there is to see around greater Reykjavík on this comprehensive city tour. Take in 360-degree views from the hilltop Perlan, discover Höfði House where the 1986 summit between Reagan and Gorbachev took place, see the famous Hallgrímskirkja church and tour the Old Town streets around the Parliament building.

Year-round, daily 10 hours departing at 9am Combine the sights and sounds of Iceland’s bustling capital with the natural wonders of the Golden Circle. In the morning discover Hallgrímskirkja church, admire views from the Perlan and visit the town of Hafnarfjörður, where mythical hidden people are said to reside. Erupting geysers and a thundering double waterfall await you in the afternoon.

Year-round, daily 10 hours departing at 8am & 9am Experience Iceland’s top natural attractions in one day. Spend the morning relaxing in the healing geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon, renowned for its mineralrich white silica mud, before joining an afternoon excursion to historic Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal fields and powerful Gullfoss waterfall.

Lava Caves & Blue Lagoon

Reykjavík & Blue Lagoon

Year-round, Sat, Sun Flexible return, departing at 1pm For a unique view of the country’s volcanic geology, head underground on this afternoon adventure which showcases the spectacular subterranean world of Iceland’s lava tube caves. In the early evening, trade the caves for the hot pools of the Blue Lagoon to soak in the milky-blue waters which are said to have rejuvenating qualities.

Prices are per adult. Children 11 and under travel FREE, children 12-17 travel HALF PRICE. *Price excludes Blue Lagoon entrance fee. Ask a Regent Iceland Specialist about Standard, Comfort, Premium or Luxury packages from £31pp.

Year-round, daily Flexible return, departing at 9am Get to know the world’s northernmost capital city with a tour that visits the presidential residence at Bessastaðir, the town of Hafnarfjörður, the Perlan viewing platform, and Hallgrímskirkja church. In the afternoon transfer to the famous Blue Lagoon to relax in the natural spa situated in a black lava field.

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland & the Arctic Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Off-roading in Superjeeps

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 spouting geysers and vast, dramatic glaciers.

Prices from

In the winter months, no Reykjavík city break would be complete without an evening excursion in search of the incredible northern lights; get off-the-beaten -track to search for the natural phenomenon in a jeep designed for adventure.

The Golden Circle £220

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.

Northern Lights Hunt £119 Snowmobiling £133 (Based on two persons per skidoo) Prices are per adult. Children under 12 travel half price when travelling with 1 adult (Minimum age 6 years.) SPECIAL OFFER Book the Golden Circle or South Coast Adventure and get the Northern Lights Hunt half price.

South Coast Adventure

Northern Lights Hunt

The Golden Circle

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. Stop to enjoy breathtaking views over the Atlantic Ocean and admire vast panoramas of the everchanging glacier flood plains and dramatic black sand beaches.

15 Sep – 15 Apr, daily 3-4 hours departing after 8pm Leave the bright lights of Reykjavík behind and head out into the surrounding mountains to search for the incredible aurora in the remote, lunar-like landscape, on this off-the-beaten-track adventure. Should you not see the northern lights on your first attempt, you will be offered the chance to join the excursion again for free on another evening during your stay.

Year-round, Tue, Thu, Sat 8-9 hours departing at 8.30am Discover the most famous 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 32-metre crevasse and visit the Geysir geothermal field to watch Strokkur geyser erupting into the sky.

Tailor-made Tours

South Coast Adventure £232

Pick your personal highlights of Iceland to see on your own private Superjeep adventure with personal driver-guide. Regent Holidays can tailor-make any type of private tour for your family or group, be it a full day excursion to the Golden Circle, or a four-day break exploring the natural highlights of South Iceland. Ask a Regent Iceland specialist for a tailor-made quote.

Snowmobiling Golden Circle Optional Extra Experience the thrill of adventure by adding a one hour snowmobiling tour to your Superjeep Golden Circle excursion. Warm, waterproof suits are provided for this exhilarating ride on Langjökull glacier under the low winter sun. Choose to ride alone or share the skidoo on this wilderness adventure.

Reykjavík Excursions

Helicopter flight over geothermal field

Excursions by Air Iceland is home to a plethora of astounding natural landscapes. Scenery varies from vast ice caps and volcanic peaks to rugged lava flows and grassy countryside; whichever direction you set off in you’re always guaranteed an astonishing view. There’s only so much you can see, however, from ground-level. For the most spectacular sweeping vistas, add a dash of adrenaline to your holiday and take to the skies in a helicopter on an excursion by air. There’s no better way to realise the sheer size and scale of many of Iceland’s most-loved natural wonders. Watch as the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates drift apart in Þingvellir National Park, tour the Golden Circle from the air or view geothermal hot springs only reached by helicopter.

Golden Circle & Glaciers

Glacier Landing

2 hours When visiting this Arctic Island, the Golden Circle tops many travellers’ bucket list, but the best (and crowd-free) way to experience Iceland’s most loved natural trio is aboard a private helicopter. Fly over the lunar landscapes and plate rift valleys at þingvellir, pass steaming geothermal jets of the Geysir hot springs and glide past mighty Gullfoss waterfall.

90 - 110 minutes Set off from Reykjavík and land on Langjökull glacier to stand in the snow atop Iceland’s second biggest glacier. Spot the distant wild highlands before climbing back aboard the helicopter to circle over Skjaldbreiður shield volcano and see the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates drift apart carving a dramatic rift valley in þingvellir National Park.

Prices from Golden Circle & Glaciers £719 Glacier Landing £565 Waterfalls & Valleys £399 Reykjavík Summit £185 Prices are per adult. Children aged 2 - 11 receive a 25% discount. Prices may vary so please contact us for details.

Waterfalls & Valleys

Reykjavík Summit

Year-round, Tue, Thu, Sat Glide over Glymur for a spectacular view of one of Iceland’s highest waterfalls as you make your way to þingvellir National Park, where you’ll be able to grasp the vast scale of the tectonic plate movement. Land at Hengill volcano in the south west of Iceland to take a dip in geothermal mud pots and natural hot springs that are only accessible by helicopter.

30-45 minutes This short trip introduces you to the bustling capital from a unique perspective, by lifting off from Reykjavík and touring the landscapes that surround the cityscape. Land on a nearby mountain summit to take in the outstanding panoramic views that span the ‘Smokey Bay’, steaming volcanic hillsides and the craggy coastline hugged by the Atlantic.

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland & the Arctic Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Hiking on Sólheimajökull Glacier

Active Excursions Get up close and personal with some of Iceland’s most geologically important sights, experiencing the country’s unique, spectacular natural phenomena with an active excursion. Attempt an ice wall climb on a glacier, snorkel between the North American and Eurasian continental plates, walk and crawl through incredible tube caves created by molten lava or explore the lava fields on horse back from Íshestar Riding Centre. Riddled with lava caves, the Blue Mountains hide an underground world which illustrates the country’s active volcanic history, while the Silfra fissure is one of the most impressive freshwater dive sights in the world.

Prices from Glacier Hike & Ice Climbing £143 Lava Caving & Snorkelling £149 Lava Horse Riding Tour £60 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. Prices are per person and include return hotel transfers, specialist guides and equipment.

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

Lava Caving & Snorkelling Year-round, daily 8 hours departing at 9am Start the day’s adventure by caving through the perfect lava tubes found in Leiðarendi Cave in the Blue Mountains, looking for the rock formations left behind in the last volcanic eruption. Later don a dry suit to snorkel the crystal clear waters of Silfra fissure, a rift between the North American and Eurasian plates, with world class visibility of around 80m.

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.

Lava Horse Riding Tour Year-round, daily 3 hours (1.5 riding) various departures Able to cater for both beginners and more experienced riders, this scenic ride follows 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.

Reykjavík Excursions

Ice caving

Into the Glacier

Prices from

1 Nov - 15 Mar, daily 2.5 – 4 hours departing at 11.30am Departing from Skaftafell, discover the power of Europe’s largest glacier on an ice caving and hiking expedition. An ever-changing natural phenomenon, new caves are discovered each winter when Vatnajökull’s glacial rivers retract. Start with a hike on the glacier tongue before entering the cave, surrounded by blue light passing through the glacier ice.

Into the Glacier £114 Golden Circle & Caving £103 Glaciers & Waterfalls £137 2 Day South Coast Adventure £400 Northern Lights Explorer £114 Minimum age 10. Prices are per person and include return hotel transfers where applicable, specialist guides and equipment. Minimum age for Into the Glacier is 10 and minimum shoe size is 3.

Golden Circle & Caving

Glaciers & Waterfalls

South Coast Adventure

15 Sep -15 May, daily 8 hours departing at 9am Depart Reykjavík and hike through an underground world of lava tubes before travelling on to Gullfoss, queen of Icelandic waterfalls, where the powerful river crashes over three tiers of rock. Visit the geothermal area of Geysir and see hot springs erupting twenty metres into the air before completing the circle in historic Þingvellir National Park.

Year round, daily 12 hours departing at 7.45am Depart Reykjavík for a full day adventure to Iceland’s dramatic south coast. Stand behind the cascading water at Seljalandsfos waterfall, feel the ancient ice beneath you on a glacier tongue hike, stroll along volcanic black sands at Reynisfjara beach and walk up the 527 steps for a bird’s eye view of the rainbows over Skógafoss waterfall.

Nov-Mar, daily 2 days departing at 8am Travel from Reykjavík to Iceland’s stunning south coast, encountering thundering waterfalls, powerful volcanoes and beautiful black beaches. Overnight in the Icelandic countryside – the perfect rural spot to search for the northern lights. Return via Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon and Skaftafell for an incredible ice caving experience on Vatnajökull glacier.

Northern Lights Explorer 15 Sep - 15 Apr 4 hours departing at 8pm Depart Reykjavík in a superjeep and travel into the Blue Mountains before the night draws in. Travel where conventional vehicles simply cannot go and conquer Iceland’s varied terrain to access remote areas away from the light pollution where the Northern Lights are most visible.

17 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland & the Arctic Explorer on 020 7666 1291

City Breaks in Reykjavík The world’s northernmost capital city perches on a patch of craggy coastline in the west of Iceland overlooking the Atlantic. It is home to world-class restaurants, historic landmarks, stylish galleries and a bustling cultural scene. Colourful houses, set against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains, inhabited by cosmopolitan and friendly people would be enough to list Reykjavík as a fantastic city break destination – but it’s the proximity to the island’s natural wonders that sets this capital apart. From your base in the city, set off to explore the sights of Iceland’s famous Golden Circle. Discover the thundering Gullfoss waterfall, Þingvellir National Park and the Geysir geothermal area. Follow up your adventures with a soak in the healing waters of the Blue Lagoon. Thrill-seekers can opt for an exhilarating snowmobile excursion on Langjökull glacier or embark on a whale watching cruise from the historic harbour. During the winter months, clamber into a Superjeep for an aurora-hunting ride into the countryside in search of the northern lights.

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 85 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. The hotel also has a brand new wing, built on what was Reykjavík’s first brewery, containing six Character rooms influenced by their beer-making history. Enjoy a drink at the hotel bar and cocktail lounge before dining in downtown Reykjavík where a wonderful array of restaurants can be found just ten minutes’ walk away from the hotel. For a quick bite before your northern lights excursion, Harry’s Oriental Restaurant and Cafe next door to the hotel 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 £510

Prices from £595

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 & the Arctic Explorer on 020 7666 1291

3 NIGHT CITY BREAK | HHHH

Radisson Blu 1919 Hotel

Radisson Blu Saga Hotel

Voted Iceland’s leading hotel for seven years in a row, the 1919 combines historic charm with the style and service you would expect from a Radisson. Situated in the fashionable 101 district, Reykjavík’s central attractions including the Art Museum, cathedral and harbour with its Sculpture & Shore Walking Trail are only minutes away.

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.

The hotel’s 88 modern studio-concept rooms all feature free wireless internet and television with video-on-demand technology. Choose from Standard, Deluxe or Business rooms, or upgrade to a loft-style suite and enjoy the added luxuries of a king-sized bed, open sitting area, private Jacuzzi and Nespresso coffee machine.

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.

The cosy 1919 Lounge is the perfect place for a pre-dinner drink, serving creative cocktails, fine wines, cold beers and local spirits; watch the world go by from the floor-to-ceiling windows. Simple dishes made with local ingredients are on the menu at the 1919 Restaurant. Enjoy à la carte dining or tasty tapas in the evening, while the Super Breakfast Buffet is the ideal way to prepare for a busy day of sightseeing.

With panoramic views over the city, award-winning Grillið Restaurant creates mouth-watering Icelandic dishes. We recommend booking a three, four or seven course tasting menu with wine selected by the sommelier. For a more casual dining experience opt for lunch or dinner in cosy Restaurant Skrudur. The hotel’s Super Breakfast Buffet is a great way to start the day – Regent recommends the fresh fruit bar.

Prices from £700

Prices from £570

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

3 NIGHT CITY BREAK | HHHH

Icelandair Hotel Reykjavík Marina

Hilton Reykjavík Nordica

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 large and newly renovated Hilton Reykjavic Nordica is one of the city’s most prestigious, high-end hotels. Situated in Reykjavic’s new quarter, the hotel is within walking distance of the city centre. Laugardalur Park, a recreation area home to an open-air geothermally heated swimming pool and skating rink is close by.

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.

The hotel’s award-winning VOX Restaurant effortlessly caters to all tastes, offering both a five-star gourmet menu at one end, and bistrostyle cuisine at the other. The VOX bar is the perfect place to enjoy an evening cocktail before embarking on a northern lights excursion.

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 Hilton Nordica has 250 guest rooms, all classically decorated and fitted with the latest technology and furnishings. Upgrades to a Guest Room Plus, Suite or Executive room offer the best views of the surrounding landscapes. Guests staying on the Executive floor and Suites also have complimentary access to the Executive Lounge with panoramic views over Reykjavík, as well as use of the Spa. Make use of the steam baths, log cabin sauna and spacious gym.

Prices from £650

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 & the Arctic Explorer on 020 7666 1291

3 NIGHT CITY BREAK | HHHH

Apotek Hotel

Hotel Borg

Opened in December 2014, the Apotek is a brand new high-end boutique hotel in the heart of Reykjavík. The historic building formerly housed the Reykjavíkurapótek pharmacy and was designed in 1917 by Guðjón Samúelsson, a former State Architect who built some of the most celebrated buildings in Iceland including Hallgrímskirkja church.

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 hotel’s 45 rooms and suites have a sleek, contemporary feel, with urban-style bathrooms and flat-screen televisions. Ask a Regent Iceland Specialist about upgrading to the marvellous three-floor Tower Suite.

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.

Due to the prime city centre location, the hotel’s restaurant and bar have a wonderful atmosphere, and Reykjavík’s shops, galleries and attractions are all close by – stroll five minutes north to the colourful harbour with views over the mountains, or head south on foot for five minutes along the lake shore to the Icelandic National Gallery. Just 200 metres east is the renowned Fish Market restaurant – one of Regent’s favourite places to dine in the capital.

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 £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

Fosshotel Reykjavík

Fosshotel Lind

Centrally located in Reykjavík’s business district, you certainly won’t miss this hotel – Fosshotel is the largest in Iceland and is strikingly designed with a sleek silver, cubic exterior. The bustling city centre and the main shopping street, Laugavegur, are within walking distance making the hotel the ideal base from which to explore the architecture, history and colourful markets of Reykjavík.

The three-star Fosshotel Lind is another accommodation in Reykjavík provided by Fosshotel. It is centrally located near Laugavegur, the city’s main shopping street, in a neighbourhood that boasts a wide variety of restaurants, cafés and shops. Interesting museums and art galleries can be found just around the corner and the hotel is not far from a city bus terminal.

Opened in 2015, Fosshotel Reykjavík has 320 rooms spread over 16 floors, many of which offer magnificent views overlooking the city and bay area and the top floors in the tower feature large suites. Family rooms accommodating two adults and two children, and Business Tower rooms are also available. All guests benefit from gym access, free Wi-Fi and breakfast is included. Guests of the hotel can choose to visit the Beer Garden to sample some of Iceland’s finest draught beers or the elegantly designed Haust restaurant, which focuses its seasonal menus on local produce and inspiration from the Icelandic natural environment.

The hotel was renovated in 2014 and now features 77 modern, contemporary designed Standard rooms that come complete with Wi-Fi, TV, shower, WC, telephone and tea and coffee making facilities. A fresh breakfast is included in all the rooms, and the free parking spaces make this hotel a useful place to begin a fly-drive holiday. One Junior Suite is also available – upgrade for a spacious room with a balcony, bathtub and sofa. This suite is ideal for honeymoons or couples looking for added luxury at a reasonable price. The Fosshotel Lind also has a restaurant and a bar for use of guests, and happy hours are available every day of the week, between 16:00-18:00 and 21:00-22:00.

Prices from £560

Prices from £500

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 & the Arctic Explorer on 020 7666 1291

3 NIGHT CITY BREAK | HHH

Hotel Cabin

Hotel Klettur

Located along Faxaflói Bay’s scenic waterfront promenade, Hotel Cabin offers travellers a great budget option just a twenty minute coastal walk, or a short bus ride, from downtown Reykjavík. The hotel’s 250 clean and comfortable rooms, all with televisions and private bathrooms, are divided into compact Standards, larger Deluxes and Superiors which offer excellent views of the harbour from the 7th floor.

Situated on a quiet street, just two minutes’ walk from Laugavegur shopping street, Hotel Klettur is a modest, clean and comfortable hotel that takes its name from a rock bursting through the wall – rumoured to be left in situ due to Icelandic superstition surrounding elves and their rocky dwellings.

The hotel’s buffet-style Saladbar is open for lunch and dinner, offering a healthy mix of hot and cold dishes, soups and a variety of freshly baked breads. In the evening relax with a drink at the lobby bar before your northern lights excursion.

The hotel has 166 clean and bright rooms, all with private bathrooms, refrigerators, flat screen televisions and free internet access. Upgrading to a Deluxe room means either a sea view or a private balcony with a wonderful view over the city. Be sure to fill up on the buffet-style continental breakfast before a busy day of sightseeing.

Just a five minute walk from Hotel Cabin is the geothermal Laugardalslaug swimming pool. Whatever the weather, naturally heated outdoor pools are very much a part of Icelandic culture and Laugardalslaug is a popular local hangout. Regent highly recommends a dip here – entrance is just a few pounds and the steaming hot tubs are a welcome tonic on a cold winter’s day.

Try a traditional Icelandic beer at the hotel bar, open 5pm – 10pm every evening, before making use of the great city centre location to dine out in some of Reykjavík’s most popular restaurants. Regent recommends nearby Potturinn og Pannan – the Pot and Pan restaurant – for good value traditional Icelandic fare with a relaxed atmosphere.

Prices from £495

Prices from £525

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

3 NIGHT CITY BREAK | HHH

3 NIGHT CITY BREAK | HHHH

CenterHotel Plaza

CenterHotel Arnarhvoll

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.

Located near the north waterfront, opposite the Harpa Concert Hall and close to Reykjavík’s main shopping street, this chic Nordic-design hotel provides a stylish base from which to explore the capital.

The Plaza’s 200 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 of the hotel 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, its floor-to-ceiling windows and modern fire pits keeping guests cosy in the winter months.

Each of the hotel’s 104 guestrooms mixes cool greys and chromes with a splash of bright colour and Scandinavian furniture. All rooms have their own private bathroom, free high speed internet connection, flat screen TV, tea and coffee making facilities and a mini bar. To relax and re-energize, the hotel also offers a candlelit Jacuzzi, Turkish bath and Finnish sauna at a small additional cost. From the eighth floor Sky Lounge and Bar, picture windows provide spectacular views of the bay and Mt Esja. Watch the sun set with a happy hour beer or wine before your northern lights excursion, or grab a light bite from the bistro-style menu. The popular Sky Brunch is served every day from 11.30am until 4pm. For a more substantial meal, perhaps make use of the CenterHotel 20% guest discount and dine at wonderful Isafold Bistro in the nearby CenterHotel Thingholt.

Prices from £560

Prices from £575

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 & the Arctic Explorer on 020 7666 1291

3 NIGHT CITY BREAK | HHHH

Alda Hotel

Reykjavík Residence

For those who like to be at the heart of the action, the boutique Alda Hotel is located on Reykjavík’s main shopping street, Laugavegur, surrounded by cafés, restaurants, galleries and shops.

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 65 rooms has a feel of urban cool and all feature free high speed Wi-Fi, Samsung HDTV and tea and coffee making facilities. The bathrooms offer a walk-in shower with rainfall showerhead, complimentary toiletries and bathrobes on request. Upgrade to a Deluxe or Attic Room for access to the balcony with views over the city or mountains. The Suite and Family Rooms provide spacious accommodation for two adults and two children. The hotel’s Barber Bar is a popular local hangout, serving wine, draught beer, spirits and cocktails. Buy a snack from the 24/7 Grab-n-Go station or head out onto Laugavegur for dinner at one of the many downtown restaurants just steps away. After a bit of overindulging, the ground floor Fitness Centre offers top-of-the-range exercise equipment and a sauna.

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.

Prices from £740

Prices from £725

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

per person twin-share Price includes economy class flights with Icelandair, 3 nights B&B accommodation & airport transfers Two-bedroom apartment from £675pp based on four people sharing Three-bedroom apartment from £635pp based on six people sharing

3 NIGHT CITY BREAK | HHHH

3 NIGHT CITY BREAK | HHH

Black Pearl Apartments

Reykjavik4you Apartments

Opened in 2013, the luxurious Black Pearl Apartments are a first class option for families and couples alike. Each of the bright and spacious Suites features heated marble flooring, ultra-modern furnishings, LCD Smart TV in the living room and bedroom, daily maid service and city-view balcony. An in-suite breakfast can be delivered to your fridge and there is the option to have an à la carte meal prepared in your own kitchen by a top Icelandic chef.

Reykjavik4you Apartments make for a modern and stylish base in the centre of the capital. Fully furnished, 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.

Standard Suites can fit two to four adults, or two adults and two to four children. All Standard Suites have a cosy, spacious living room with dining area and terrace, and a fully-equipped kitchen with Nespresso coffee machine. Upgrade to a Deluxe Suite, or a two bedroom Deluxe for more space, or the fabulous Penthouse Suite, which sleeps up to six. Centrally located in the heart of downtown Reykjavík, just moments from the historic harbour, the capital’s cafés and restaurants are just a stone’s throw from these excellent apartments. With private indoor parking, why not hire a car to explore the surrounding natural wonders.

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 £850

Prices from £750

per person based on four people sharing a Standard Suite Price includes economy class flights with Icelandair, 3 nights B&B accommodation & airport transfers

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

Upgrade to a Deluxe Family two-bedroom Suite from £105pp

Two-bedroom apartment from £520pp based on four people sharing Two-bedroom Deluxe apartment from £500pp based on six people sharing

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland & the Arctic Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Waterfall in þingvellir National Park

South Iceland Winter Break From October to March Iceland’s skies famously come alive with the incredible northern lights. Combine searching for this magical phenomenon with experiencing the best of South Iceland’s natural wonders on this short winter break. Spend four nights in vibrant Reykjavik and enjoy guided coach excursions to the surrounding countryside, discovering waterfalls, geysers and the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Iceland Explorer for more information Day 1 Fly to Reykjavík | Arrive at Keflavík airport and transfer to Reykjavík for four nights. Evenings on this short break are free to dine at leisure. Perhaps splash out on a gourmet experience at Kopar Restaurant or grab a hotdog with sweet mustard and crunchy onions from the famous Bæjarins Beztu cabin.

tour and discover the highlights of greater Reykjavík. Take in 360-degree views from the hilltop Perlan, see the famous Hallgrímskirkja church and tour the colourful Old Town streets around the Parliament building. The afternoon is free to explore at leisure. Perhaps visit Whales of Iceland at the historic harbour – the biggest whale exhibition in the world. (B)

Day 2 Blue Lagoon & Northern Lights | Spend the morning exploring the shops, galleries and cafés of Reykjavík at leisure before an afternoon excursion to the famous Blue Lagoon. Relax in the healing geothermal waters and apply the rejuvenating white silica mud to face and body. After dark, head out on a Northern Lights Mystery coach tour to search for the aurora away from the bright lights of the city. (B)

Day 4 Golden Circle | Take a coach excursion to Iceland’s most popular trio of natural wonders. Discover Þingvellir National Park where the North American and Eurasian continental plates drift apart, get up close to Gullfoss waterfall and see Strokkur geyser erupt twenty metres into the air. Visit Skálholt church, seat of religious and political power for 800 years, before returning to Reykjavík. (B)

Day 3 Reykjavík | Join a city sightseeing coach

Day 5 Reykjavík to the UK | Transfer to the airport for the flight back to the UK. (B)

Tour duration

5 days

Holiday type

Tailor-made Guided excursions

Seasonality

Oct-Mar

Prices from

£685 per person

Includes flights, accommodation, transfers and sightseeing tours Based on Best Western Hotel Reykjavik. Ask an Iceland Specialist about upgrading to the Radisson Blu Saga from £65pp.

Off-Road Adventure

Superjeep Winter Break Based in the bustling capital, Reykjavík, embark on a series of exhilarating 4x4 excursions designed to get you to the heart of South Iceland’s natural wonders. Modified with huge tyres to take on Iceland’s challenging rugged terrain, Superjeeps are built for adventure. Get off-the-beaten-track and hunt for the mystical northern lights before discovering the waterfalls, geysers, and black volcanic beaches of the spectacular south.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Iceland Explorer for more details Day 1 Fly to Reykjavík | Arrive in Iceland’s capital, take a private transfer to the hotel and check in for four nights. In the evening head out on an exciting Northern Lights Superjeep hunt and travel into the mountains in search of the elusive aurora. Travelling by modified jeep allows you to get off-road and hunt for the phenomenon in the dark wilderness.

coast. Visit some of the areas most affected by the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull volcanic eruption, follow the trail behind beautiful Seljalandsfoss waterfall, walk on black sand beaches pounded by the Atlantic surf and visit the town of Hveragerdi where local produce is grown in row-upon-row of geothermally-heated greenhouses. (B)

Day 2 Reykjavík | Enjoy a free day to explore the world’s most northerly capital at leisure. Perhaps stroll down Laugavegur and shop for Icelandic woollen wear, head to Laugardalslaug outdoor swimming pool for a revitalising dip in the geothermal waters or visit the Northern Lights Centre to learn about the ancient legends and myths which surround the natural phenomenon. (B)

Day 5 Reykjavík to UK | Take a private transfer to the airport via the famous Blue Lagoon, known for its silica, minerals and algae which give the water its vibrant blue colour. Enjoy a rejuvenating soak with the lagoon’s Experience Comfort package which also includes a drink from the in-water bar, an algae mask (self applied in the water) and trial samples of the spa’s most popular skincare products. Transfer to the airport for the flight back to the UK. (B)

Day 3 Golden Circle | Join a Superjeep excursion exploring the trio of natural wonders collectively known as the Golden Circle. Discover icy Gullfoss waterfall which tumbles down a deep meandering gorge and the nearby Geysir geothermal field where mighty Strokkur erupts twenty metres into the air. Continue to Þingvellir National Park, site of the world’s oldest parliament and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Consider booking an optional hour-long glacier snowmobiling adventure as part of this tour. (B)

Tour duration

5 days

Holiday type

Tailor-made Guided excursions

Seasonality

Nov-Mar

Prices from

£1250 per person

Includes flights, accommodation, transfers and Superjeep tours Price based on accommodation at the 4-star Hotel Centrum.

Day 4 South Coast | Embark on a full-day Superjeep tour to Iceland’s magnificent south

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland & the Arctic Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Horse riding near Lake Mývatn

North Iceland Highlights Head further afield from Reykjavík to discover authentic Icelandic fishing villages and the incredible volcanic landscapes of the north. Visit the waterfall of the Gods, see calderas and craters, explore the fumarole fields of Namaskard, and relax in the geothermal waters of Mývatn Nature Baths. Just south of the Arctic Circle, Mývatn is the ideal place to search for the northern lights dancing over the moon-like landscape.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Iceland Explorer for more information Day 1 Reykjavík to Akureyri | Take a 45 minute flight to Akureyri from Reykjavík domestic airport and enjoy a guided tour of the North Iceland capital. Drive through the Old Town with its impressive church, head into the valleys to visit a traditional Icelandic farm and travel into the hills for superb views over the city and fjord. Spend the evening at leisure in Akureyri. If conditions are optimal, consider an optional northern lights tour after dark. Day 2 Akureyri to Lake Mývatn | Travel across volcanic North Iceland, stopping at Goðafoss – the waterfall of the Gods. Visit Dimmuborgir, a lava labyrinth formed around 2,300 years ago, and travel over the Namaskard mountain pass to Krafla caldera. Visit the explosion crater of Viti and explore the fumarole fields of Namaskard where groundwater is heated by an underground magma intrusion. End the tour with a relaxing soak at Mývatn Nature Baths. After dark take a stroll to search for the aurora reflecting over the icy lake. (B)

Day 3 Husavik | Enjoy a day tour to the picturesque fishing village of Húsavik. En route discover the hydroelectric power station on beautiful Laxá River and visit the old turf farm and folk museum at Grenjaðarstaður. Continue to Húsavik and visit the fascinating Whale Museum which houses impressive skeletons of the giants found in local waters. Return to Mývatn and perhaps consider a

second (optional) visit to the Nature Baths, before heading out in search of the northern lights. (B) Day 4 Lake Mývatn to Akureyri | Make use of a free morning to take an optional excursion in the Mývatn area. Perhaps take a Superjeep tour to Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, or if conditions permit, try cross-country skiing, snowshoe hiking or snowmobiling. Return to Akureyri by bus and spend the evening at leisure in the northern capital. (B) Day 5 Akureyri to Reykjavík | Fly back to Reykjavík or ask a Regent Iceland Specialist about adding extra time in Akureyri. The nearby ski slopes of Mt.Hliðarfjall offer good possibilities for snowboarding or alpine and cross-country skiing from December to April. (B)

Tour duration

5 days

Holiday type

Tailor-made Guided excursions

Seasonality

Sep-Apr

Prices from

£1020 per person

Includes domestic flights, accommodation, transfers and sightseeing tours

Northern Lights, North Iceland

North Iceland Aurora Break This three day aurora-hunting itinerary is the perfect extension to any Reykjavík city break. Discover a unique landscape of volcanic craters and steaming fumaroles on this short adventure in North Iceland. Travel through mountain passes and across lava fields to gain an insight into the region’s fiery geology, and in the evening, join a northern lights tour to search for the celestial phenomenon dancing across the night sky.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Iceland Explorer for more information Day 1 Reykjavík to Akureyri | Take a 45 minute flight to Akureyri from Reykjavík domestic airport and transfer to the hotel for two nights. Spend the afternoon exploring the capital of North Iceland at leisure, perhaps visiting the famous church which looks out over the Old Town. After dinner join a northern lights tour and travel into the countryside, away from the bright lights of the city, to search for the magical aurora borealis painting ribbons of colour across the night sky.

field to Krafla caldera and the explosion crater of Viti. Formed in 1734 by a five-year eruption, the giant crater is 300 metres wide. Explore the solfatara field of Námaskarð and enjoy a short walk around the fumaroles and mud pits. Continue to Mývatn Nature Baths for an optional soak in the silky-smooth geothermal water before returning to Akureyri. If you did not see the northern lights on the previous evening, another opportunity to search for the aurora is offered. (B)

Day 2 Lake Mývatn | Enjoy a full day coach tour to some of North Iceland’s most incredible geological wonders. Stop at Goðafoss waterfall, famed for its dramatic beauty as well as its historic part in Iceland’s conversion to Christianity. Travel through Reykjadalur valley to Dimmuborgir, a lava labyrinth of magnificent basaltic pillars and lava sculptures. Continue through the lava

Day 3 Akureyri to Reykjavík | Transfer to Akureyri airport for the return flight to Reykjavík. Consider booking a late afternoon or evening flight to allow free time to take part in optional activities. Perhaps try husky sledging or ice-fishing, or take an excursion to The Christmas House for a festive end to the holiday. Ask a Regent Iceland Specialist to prebook optional excursions. (B)

Tour duration

3 days

Holiday type

Tailor-made Guided excursions

Seasonality

Sep-Apr

Prices from

£615 per person

Includes domestic flights, self catering accommodation, transfers and sightseeing tours Upgrade to a 4-star hotel on B & B basis for £46 pp

31 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland & the Arctic Explorer on 020 7666 1291

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. Take the famous Route 1 which circles the country, skirting mountains, volcanoes and waterfalls, and allow ample time to stop for photographs at every new natural wonder. Base yourself at one of the fabulous four-star rural retreats an hour or so from Reykjavík and take day trips to the Golden Circle and the volcanic south coast, or choose an itinerary which involves moving on every day or two, discovering a new part of the country with every journey. Regent Iceland maps are provided with every fly-drive holiday, showing where to find the country’s natural highlights. Opt for a 4x4 like the Suzuki Grand Vitara to best handle Iceland’s quiet winter roads. An SUV known for its offroad capabilities, the Grand Vitara is well equipped for the rugged Icelandic terrain. Remember to pack sunglasses to avoid being dazzled as the low winter sun drops over the horizon. The holidays featured on the following pages are an indicator of our most popular fly-drive packages, however we can tailor-make an itinerary to suit your time frame, budget and interests. Speak to an Iceland Specialist to put an itinerary together for you.

Story to tell Jane Slade

Why I love independent travel When you are travelling along Iceland’s empty winter roads there is barely a moment that you don’t want to get out and explore. As the road weaves between 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 incredible scenery.

Iceland Fly-Drives

Driving in Iceland

33 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland & the Arctic Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Killer Whales in the Fjord

Orcas & Auroras Explore the landscapes of South and West Iceland by 4WD on this winter fly-drive adventure. Stay in remote countryside hotels, and as the evenings plunge the rugged landscapes into darkness, head out in search of the incredible aurora borealis. A holiday highlight is the opportunity to see beautiful yet deadly killer whales feeding on schools of herring in the fjords of West Iceland on a winter boat tour.

Suggested Itinerary Ask a Regent Iceland Explorer to tailor-make this itinerary Day 1 Fly to Reykjavik | Fly to Iceland’s cosmopolitan capital, pick up the 4WD hire car and drive to the Blue Lagoon to refresh body and soul after the flight. The iconic bright blue waters which fill the natural spa contain algae and silica mud which are said to have skinrepairing and anti-aging properties. Continue along the south coast of Reykjanes peninsula before turning off towards the natural wonders of the Golden Circle. Check in to the hotel near Þingvellir National Park for three nights. Away from the bright lights of nearby towns and villages, head out to search for the magical northern lights. (80km)

Days 2 & 3 South Iceland | Spend two free days exploring the surrounding area. Regent recommends spending a full day discovering the Golden Circle. Start at nearby Þingvellir National Park situated on the tectonic plate boundaries of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, before visiting dramatic Gullfoss waterfall and the bubbling hot springs of the Geysir geothermal area. Perhaps spend the second free day driving to the south coast, where the Atlantic Ocean pounds the waters of the black sand volcanic beaches, or choose a glacier hike to explore the crevasses, sink holes and ice ridges of Sólheimajökull, an outlet of the larger Myrdalsjökull glacier. Don’t miss the opportunity to spend dark winter evenings searching for the aurora. (B)

Day 4 South to West Iceland | Drive towards the west of Iceland, stopping to admire Hraunfossar, small waterfalls and rapids which run through the lava, and Barnafoss waterfall, steeped in local legend. Continue to Snæfellsnes peninsula with its towering stratovolcano dominating the landscape. Check in to the hotel for two nights and head outside as the night draws in if conditions are optimal for aurora hunting. (B) (220km) Day 5 Killer Whale Boat Tour | Herring have chosen the waters around Grundarfjörður as their winter home, and never far behind this plentiful food source are vast numbers of killer whales. Embark on a winter boat tour of the fjord for the chance to get up-close to the incredible orcas in their natural habitat and experience the frenzy of feeding time. (B) Day 6 West Iceland to Reykjavík | Drive to Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital. Back in civilisation, be sure to head out to enjoy the chic restaurants and bars of this vibrant city. (B) (175km) Day 7 Reykjavík | Enjoy a free day in the capital. Perhaps choose to peruse the boutique shops of Laugavegur, visit the National Museum of Iceland, admire views over the city from the revolving Perlan or even take a winter whale watching tour from the downtown harbour. (B) Day 8 Reykjavík to UK | Return the hire car to the airport and fly back to the UK. (B) (50km)

Holiday duration 8 days Holiday type Fly-Drive Unguided Seasonality

Nov – early Apr

Prices from

£1040 per person

Includes flights, car hire and accommodation Regent recommends a 4WD vehicle for Iceland’s winter road conditions. Upgrade to P-class Suzuki Grand Vitara from £155pp

Iceland Fly-Drives

Selfoss Waterfall

Northern Lights in Style Discover the natural wonders of South and West Iceland on this deluxe winter mini break. Staying in luxury countryside hotels, explore the otherworldly landscape of dramatic volcanoes, thundering waterfalls and creaking glaciers at your own pace. As night falls, lie back in the warm waters of a geothermal hot tub and keep watch over the winter skies for the flickering ribbons of the northern lights.

Suggested Itinerary Ask a Regent Iceland Explorer to tailor-make this itinerary Day 1 Fly to Reykjavík | Fly to Keflavík airport, collect the hire car and drive to the Blue Lagoon (25km). Filled with nine million litres of geothermal seawater, it is the silica and minerals that provide the lagoon’s renowned healing properties. Enjoy the Premium spa package including a silica mud mask, use of a bathrobe and slippers and a glass of sparkling wine. Feeling fully relaxed, drive to Hotel Grímsborgir at the heart of the Golden Circle for a twonight stay in a Superior Room. After dark, retire to the outdoor hot tubs and watch the winter night sky for the magical aurora. (105km) Day 2 Golden Circle | Spend the day exploring the natural highlights of South Iceland, all within easy driving distance of the hotel. Just 15 kilometres to the south is Selfoss, a beautiful horseshoe waterfall on a powerful glacier river. To the north, the highlights of the Golden Circle await; visit the Geysir geothermal fields where lively Strokkur spouts water 100 feet into the air, and feel the power of Gullfoss waterfall where icy waters plummet into a deep canyon. After dark, search for the ethereal aurora away from any light pollution in this peaceful rural setting. (B) Day 3 Golden Circle to Húsafell | Head west and spend the day exploring, stopping at Þingvellir National Park to discover the continental drift between the North American and Eurasian plates. Or depart early to make the two-hour

journey in time to catch the 12.30pm Into The Glacier tour. This awesome excursion by specially modified ice truck allows travellers the opportunity to walk through man-made ice tunnels and caves in Europe’s second largest glacier. Check in to Hotel Húsafell for a twonight stay in a Deluxe Room. (B) (135km) Day 4 Húsafell | Húsafell is an area rich in natural beauty. Choose to explore its nearby lava fields and glaciers or opt for a full day trip to Snæfellsnes, a 90 kilometre-long peninsula crowned by Snæfellsjökull ice cap. Discover the dramatic volcanic peaks, traditional fishing villages, towering cliffs and beautiful fjords at your own pace, before returning to Húsafell for a dip in the hotel’s geothermal swimming pool. Make use of a final night in the countryside to hunt for the mystical northern lights. (B)

Holiday duration 6 days Holiday type

Fly-Drive

Seasonality

Sep – May

Prices from

£1270 per person

Includes flights, luxury accommodation, Blue Lagoon Premium package and car hire (VW Polo or similar) Upgrade to a Suzuki Grand Vitara from £125pp

Day 5 Húsafell to Reykjavík | Depart Húsafell, driving along the rugged west coast to Iceland’s vibrant capital. Enjoy free time in the city to explore the shops, galleries and museums, or perhaps head out on a winter whale watching safari in search of humpbacks and orcas. Check in to an Executive Room at the Hilton Reykjavík Nordica. (B) (130km) Day 6 Reykjavík to UK | Drive back to Keflavík airport for the return flight to the UK. (B) (50km)

35 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland & the Arctic Explorer on 020 7666 1291

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 hotel’s cosy interior and isolated location make it perfect for a romantic winter honeymoon – here couples can experience the magic of the northern lights from 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 4 days Holiday type

Fly-Drive Unguided

Seasonality

Oct-Apr

Prices from

£825 per person

Includes flights, 4WD car hire and accommodation Ask an Iceland Specialist about upgrading to Deluxe rooms from £80pp

Iceland Fly-Drives

Winter at Hotel Rangá

Reykjavík & Hotel Rangá Combine time in Iceland’s quirky capital with four nights at a relaxing rural retreat. Drive yourself between the waterfalls, volcanoes and glaciers of South Iceland and spend evenings at the Rangá soaking in the hotel’s geothermal hot tubs as the northern lights dance overhead or tucking in to delicious local fish dishes from the acclaimed restaurant. Back in Reykjavík, combine the cultural highlights with a winter whale watching safari.

Suggested Itinerary Ask a Regent Iceland Explorer to tailor-make this itinerary Day 1 Fly to Reykjavík | Arrive in Iceland, collect the hire car and drive to Hotel Rangá for a four night stay. Around a two-hour drive from the airport, the remote log cabin-style retreat can be found just off Route 1, near the small town of Hella. After a day of travelling, perhaps relax in one of the hotel’s natural outdoor hot tubs, keeping an eye out for the aurora borealis flickering gently overhead. Day 2 Rangá | Head out in the hire car to explore some of Iceland’s most spectacular scenery. Perhaps start with the incredible natural wonders of the Golden Circle including thundering Gullfoss waterfall, historic Þingvellir National Park and the bubbling hot springs at Geysir where mighty Strokkur erupts twenty metres into the air every few minutes. Active Mt Hekla and the glacial rivers of Þórsmörk are also within an hour’s drive. (B) Day 3 Rangá | Today perhaps you could consider driving to Iceland’s southernmost village, Vik, where the volcanic black sand beaches make for spectacular coastal views. En route, be sure to stop at Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where it is possible to walk behind the gushing torrent of water. In the evening head out into the countryside surrounding the Rangá to search for the mysterious northern lights. (B)

of Þorvaldseyri, or head further afield, driving three hours along the south coast to the incredible floating icebergs of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. (B) Day 5 Rangá to Reykjavík | Drive back to Reykjavík, perhaps stopping at the hot spring town of Hveragerði en route, or driving via Flúðir to take a dip in the Secret Lagoon natural hot springs. Return the hire car in Reykjavík and check in to the Hotel Centrum for three nights. (B) Day 6 Reykjavík | Perhaps join a winter whale watching boat tour on this free day in Iceland’s capital. For those without sea legs, visit the new Whales of Iceland Museum where lifesize models of the sea giants hang overhead.

Holiday duration 8 days Holiday type Fly-Drive Unguided Seasonality

Oct-Apr

Prices from

£1200 per person

Includes flights, 4WD car hire and accommodation. Ask an Iceland Specialist about upgrading to Deluxe rooms from £145pp

Day 7 Reykjavík | The shops, galleries and cafés of Laugavegur are just a short walk from the hotel and make for an enjoyable morning amble. In the afternoon perhaps consider an optional excursion to the Blue Lagoon to relax in the mineral-rich waters. (B) Day 8 Reykjavík to UK | Transfer to the airport for the flight back to the UK. (B)

Day 4 Rangá | Choose to drive to the Eyjafjallajökull Visitor Centre to learn about how the 2010 eruption affected the residents

37 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland & the Arctic Explorer on 020 7666 1291

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 combination of 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. Situated far from the light pollution of Iceland’s major towns, the Grímsborgir provides a wonderful winter setting to await a performance of the elusive aurora borealis; sit back in your hot tub under a clear night sky as the incredible neon lights dance overhead.

Holiday duration 5 days Holiday type

Fly-Drive Unguided

Seasonality

Oct-Apr

Prices from

£1010 per person

Includes flights, 4WD car hire and accommodation Ask an Iceland Specialist about upgrading to a two bedroom apartment from £190pp

Iceland Fly-Drives

Waterfall in Þingvellir National Park

Reykjavík & Hotel Grímsborgir Combine city and country on this luxury twin-centre holiday based in Reykjavík and remote Grímsnes in South Iceland. Stay in the heart of the Golden Circle region at the boutique Grímsborgir, perfectly positioned for exploring the natural wonders of the south, before returning to the capital for three nights of culture. After dark, keep a watch on the winter sky from the Grímsborgir’s outdoor geothermal hot tubs.

Suggested Itinerary Ask a Regent Iceland Explorer to tailor-make this itinerary Day 1 Fly to Reykjavík | Collect the hire car at Keflavík International Airport and drive to Hotel Grímsborgir at the heart of the Golden Circle. After the ninety-minute drive, a soak in one of the outdoor geothermal hot tubs is always welcome. The hotel’s remote location provides the perfect spot to search for the northern lights on dark winter evenings. Day 2 Grímsnes | With the hotel located between Þingvellir National Park and the volcanic crater lake Kerið, driving between the geological wonders of the Golden Circle is the natural place to start exploring. Impressive Gullfoss waterfall and the exploding hot springs of Geysir complete the scenic loop. (B) Day 3 Grímsnes | Perhaps choose to embark on a journey of around ninety miles, along scenic Route 1, to the rugged south coast where Iceland’s southernmost village of Vík looks out over dramatic black sand beaches. Be sure to stop en route at Skógafoss waterfall where the mist created by sixty metres of thundering water often produces beautiful rainbows. (B) Day 4 Grímsnes | On the last day in the countryside, perhaps relax in the scenic surrounds of the hotel and discover Iceland’s largest freshwater river, famed for its Arctic char and Atlantic salmon, or embark on an exciting journey to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. The sight of the enormous icebergs drifting out towards the Atlantic is well worth

the four-hour drive. Take the opportunity to head out in search of the elusive aurora borealis on the last evening in rural South Iceland. (B) Day 5 Grímsnes to Reykjavík | Depart Grímsnes and journey back to Reykjavík, perhaps stopping at the hot spring town of Hveragerði, where geothermal heat is harnessed for horticulture. Check in at the Reykjavík Residence Hotel, a luxury apartment hotel in the heart of the city with ample parking. (B) Day 6 Reykjavík | Make use of a free day in the capital to explore the abundance of cultural attractions on foot. The historic harbour area, Hallgrímskirkja Church, Parliament building and Laugavegur shopping street are all within 300 metres of the hotel. (B)

Holiday duration 8 days Holiday type Fly-Drive Unguided Seasonality

Oct-Apr

Prices from

£1645 per person

Includes flights, 4WD car hire and accommodation. Ask an Iceland Specialist about upgrading to a two-bedroom apartment from £440pp. Price per person based on four people travelling from £1380.

Day 7 Reykjavík | On the final day perhaps opt for a drive out to Reykjanes peninsula, a diverse area of volcanic and geothermal activity, and the only place in the world where the Mid-Atlantic Ridge is visible above sea level. Be sure to visit the area’s most famous attraction, the Blue Lagoon, situated in the middle of a black lava field. Pre-booking is highly recommended – ask a Regent Iceland Specialist for more details. (B) Day 8 Reykjavík to UK | Drive to Keflavík International Airport and return the hire car before the flight back to the UK. (B)

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland & the Arctic Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Hotel ION

Hotel ION Short Break The ION is a contemporary, luxury hotel just outside the UNESCO-protected Þingvellir National Park – an ideal location for exploring the natural wonders of the Golden Circle as well as the Hengill volcanic area and river Öxará. Less than an hour’s drive from Reykjavík, the hotel’s Northern Lights Bar with its floor-to-ceiling windows is the perfect place to catch a performance of the winter light show.

The Hotel For more information, visit our website Perched on the edge of Mt Hengill overlooking Þingvellir Lake, this stylish Scandi-chic hotel draws inspiration from the nature by which it is surrounded, with its living wall of Icelandic flora, organic fairtrade bed linen and 10 metre geothermally-heated outdoor relaxation pool. All 46 modern guestrooms feature organic linen and towels, satellite television, private bathroom with environmentally responsible water-saving shower, as well as luxurious cosmetics from Sóley Organic made with handpicked Icelandic herbs. Our price includes an upgrade to a Deluxe room with the additions of floor-to-ceiling windows, fairtrade bathrobes, underfloor heating, minibar, coffee machine and free access to the onsite Lava Spa. The hotel’s Silfra Restaurant offers seasonal, contemporary Nordic cuisine with an emphasis on sustainable, farm-fresh produce

cooked slowly for added flavour. The chef uses traditional Icelandic ingredients to create modern dishes such as freshly caught Arctic char from Þingvallavatn served with pickles or the unique crème brûlée made with thick and creamy Icelandic Skyr. After dinner, head to the comfy Northern Lights Bar for coffee or perhaps try one of the many microbrewed Icelandic beers on offer while enjoying views over Þingvellir Lake. With numerous hiking trails surrounding the hotel and adventures such as snorkelling in Silfra rift or lava caving in the National Park (see page 13) on the doorstep, the Lava Spa is the perfect place to relax tired muscles at the end of a busy day exploring. Soak in the warm waters of the outdoor hot pool, unwind in the sauna or book a soothing massage or spa treatment to revive body and soul.

Holiday duration 4 days Holiday type

Fly-Drive Unguided

Seasonality

Year-round

Prices from

£940 per person

Includes flights, 4WD car hire and accommodation

Iceland Fly-Drives

Winter at Skógafoss Waterfall

Aurora Road Trip Discover thundering waterfalls and secret lagoons on this South Iceland fly-drive holiday. Drive between the Golden Circle and the dramatic south coast where immense glaciers and volcanic black sand beaches await. With accommodation at Icelandair’s top 4-star hotels, evenings can be spent enjoying fresh local produce at the excellent in-house restaurants or relaxing in outdoor hot tubs as the celestial northern lights dance overhead.

Suggested Itinerary Ask a Regent Iceland Explorer to tailor-make this itinerary Day 1 Fly to Reykjavík | Arrive at Keflavík International Airport, collect the hire car and drive to the Icelandair Hotel Reykjavík Natura for a two night stay. Relax after the journey with a dip in the hotel’s indoor geothermal swimming pool (additional charge), or dine at the hotel’s Satt Restaurant serving wonderful dishes with ingredients sourced locally.

Day 5 Flúðir to Vík | Drive to Iceland’s rugged south coast, perhaps visiting Þórsmörk Nature Reserve or the sixty metre-high Skógafoss waterfall en route. Stop to walk on the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara before arriving in Vík, where the pounding Atlantic surf has carved a dramatic coastline. Check in at the Icelandair Hotel Vik for two nights. (B)

Day 2 Reykjavík | Enjoy a free day to explore Iceland’s compact capital. Perhaps stroll down Laugavegur shopping street, stopping for a warming hot chocolate at one of the many cafés, or head to Perlan for wonderful views of the city and surrounding mountains from the revolving restaurant. (B)

Day 6 Vík | Choose to explore the village or make use of the hire car to discover the highlights of the south shore. Just over a two hour drive away is Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, a visual spectacle where huge chunks of ice calve from the glacier and crash into the lagoon below. Return to the Icelandair Hotel Vik and perhaps dine at the hotel’s Restaurant Berg with fabulous views towards the Reynisdrangar Pillars. (B)

Day 3 Reykjavík to Flúðir | Begin the journey into the heart of Iceland’s spectacular countryside. Drive between the trio of natural wonders known as the Golden Circle – Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall and the bubbling springs of Geysir – before arriving at the Icelandair Hotel Fludir. After dark, head to the hotel’s outdoor geothermal hot tubs and watch for the northern lights overhead. (B) Day 4 Flúðir | Take to the road and explore the surrounding area. Perhaps visit the nearby Secret Lagoon where it’s possible to watch ‘Little Geysir’ erupt every few minutes from the steaming waters of the natural pool. Return to the Icelandair Hotel Fludir and relax with a drink from the outdoor bar as day turns to night. (B)

Holiday duration 8 days Holiday type Fly-Drive Unguided Seasonality

Oct-Apr

Prices from

£1185 per person

Includes flights, 4WD car hire and accommodation.

Day 7 Vík to Reykjavík | Make the return journey to Reykjavík, perhaps stopping at Friðheimar to learn about the geothermal greenhouses, and to try some of the delicious local produce. Check in to the Icelandair Hotel Reykjavík Natura for the final night. (B) Day 8 Reykjavík to the UK | Travel back to the Reykjanes peninsula. A visit to the region’s famous Blue Lagoon (pre-booking advised) is highly recommended – relax in the geothermal spa renowned for its rejuvenating white silica mud. Return the hire car at the airport before the flight back to the UK. (B)

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland & the Arctic Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Northern Lights over Stracta Hotel

Hotel Stracta Short Break An hour and a half from Reykjavík, just beyond the small village of Hella, Stracta Hotel is the ideal base for exploring South Iceland. Opened in 2014 by Premiership footballer Hermann Hreiðarsson and his father, this modern hotel combines minimalist Nordic design with a passion for being ‘next door to nature’. After wandering black sand beaches, retire to the outdoor hot tubs after dark to watch for the mystical northern lights.

The Hotel Speak to a Regent Iceland Explorer or visit our website for more information Newly opened in the summer of 2014, this 122room hotel is at the heart of South Iceland’s most spectacular natural attractions. From Restaurant Garður, infamous Eyjafjallajökull volcano and its active neighbour Mt Hekla can be viewed whilst enjoying a three-course evening buffet, created using the freshest of local ingredients. Standard rooms are bright and modern with Scandinavian-style furniture, private bathrooms, televisions and free Wi-Fi. Upgrade to a Superior room for a more spacious footprint and larger bathroom. For families, a Studio 1 apartment makes the ideal self-catering living space. Sleeping four to six people, each two-bedroom cottage has a kitchenette, living room with sofa-bed and private hot tub. Pick up one of the hotel’s great lunch boxes for a busy day of sightseeing. The volcanic

black sand beaches of Vík are just fifty miles away, whilst gushing Seljalandsfoss waterfall can be reached in under half an hour. Take a day to drive between the natural wonders of the Golden Circle or travel a little over three hours to spectacular Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and walk between stranded icebergs. The hotel also offers trips to local farms as well as optional activities such as Superjeep tours on Eyjafjallajökull, the volcano responsible for the 2010 ash cloud. In the winter months, take an invigorating dash to one of the hotel’s outdoor saunas or hot tubs. On a clear night, while away the evening in the warm waters, keeping an eye on the night sky for flashes of green light. The hotel also offers an introduction to fine whisky tasting to warm the cockles on cold winter evenings.

Holiday duration 4 days Holiday type

Fly-Drive Unguided

Seasonality

Sep-May

Prices from

£690 per person

Includes flights, 4WD car hire and accommodation Ask an Iceland Specialist about upgrading to a Superior room from £75 per person. A 2 bedroom apartment costs £730 per person based on four people sharing.

Iceland Fly-Drives

Reynisfjara Beach, South Iceland

Minniborgir Cottage Break This collection of 21 wooden chalets is located around 45 miles from Reykjavík and 11 miles from the small village of Laugarvatn. Situated within Iceland’s Golden Circle, it is a perfect base from which to explore many of the main south-west highlights. This is a great place for northern light spotting as there is no nearby light pollution, so take a walk in the area, stay close to your cottage or relax in one of the hot tubs.

The Cottages Speak to a Regent Iceland Explorer or visit our website for more information There are four different types of cottages available to rent from one or two bedroom smaller chalets up to larger cottages and one big luxurious cottage that sleeps nine people.

A children’s playground is a few minutes away.

We have based our prices on the larger 80sq m cottages and have included linen/towels. There are seven of these and they can be rented for any duration. The cottages are heated by thermal energy and are well insulated so are a great choice for an Icelandic winter selfcatering break. Each cottage has an open plan kitchen, diner and living room area. There are two double bedrooms on the ground floor (one bedroom has an additional small single bunk bed) and two double beds on the mezzanine level in the attic. Therefore these cottages can sleep eight people and are ideal for two families. The cottages also have a washing machine, two TVs, DVD player and free Wi-Fi, as well as their own private hot tub and gas BBQ.

During the winter months be sure to include a visit to the Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths, only fifteen minutes’ drive away from the Minniborgir Cottages. This is an ideal place to warm up after a day’s busy winter sightseeing as the spa is open until 9pm from October to March. Unwind in the warm geothermal pools and natural steam rooms. The baths vary in depth, size and temperature and the steam rooms built over natural hot springs have been used for this purpose since 1929. Fontana Spa is located by picturesque Lake Laugarvatn and so spectacular views can be enjoyed from the sauna or the pools. The restaurant at the spa also serves a delicious lunch and dinner buffet daily.

The staff are very friendly and always willing to help out and offer any advice if needed or arrange local excursions.

Holiday duration 4 days Holiday type Fly-Drive Unguided Seasonality

Oct-Apr

Prices from

£730 per person

Based on 2 persons sharing, includes flights, 4WD car hire and accommodation. £540pp based on 4 persons sharing £505pp based on 6 persons sharing

43 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland & the Arctic Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Group Tours The Inside Story For those who like holidays 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 winter scenery go by, knowing that your trip has been designed by an Iceland expert to include all the highlights along the way. With frequent stops en route, you’ll discover the fascinating history and geology of the ever-changing landscape with the help of your local guide and share wonderful experiences along the way with a group of like-minded people. The northern lights draw visitors to the Arctic Circle every year, and no matter whether you’ve seen them before or you’re experiencing them for the first time, the aurora borealis never fails to impress. All of our winter tours are designed with aurora hunting in mind, and many include talks or presentations to help you understand the natural phenomenon and learn of the myths and legends surrounding it. Pack plenty of warm layers, including hats and gloves for rural walks after dark. A DSLR camera using a long shutter speed and tripod are recommended for capturing the best shots. A wide range of detailed itineraries are available from your Regent Iceland Specialist, who can also advise on tour availability for your preferred departure dates.

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

Jรถkulsรกrlรณn Glacial Lagoon

45 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland & the Arctic Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Aurora Borealis over Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon

Northern Lights Explorer Dive into Iceland’s greatest winter wonders on a group tour specially designed to uncover the highlights of the South West whilst maximising the chances of witnessing the elusive aurora borealis. Discover the volcanic craters, hotsprings and waterfalls of Borgarfjordur Valley, reach the Snaefellsnes Peninsula to explore charming fishing villages and the vast Skaftafell National Park. Spend evenings in search of the northern lights.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Iceland Explorer for more information and to check 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 to Reykholt | Head west and take a stroll on the Grábrók volcano crater. Feel the heat at Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring, and discover the Hraunfossa and Barnafoss waterfalls. Later attend a lecture about the northern lights and take a guided walk after dinner in search of the aurora. (B) Day 3 Snæfellsnes Peninsula | Travel to Snæfellsnes Peninsula and discover the charming fishing town of Stykkishólmur before a cruise in the Breiðafjörður fjord. Sample freshly caught scallops whilst sailing around this unique archipelago and visit Bjarnarhöfn, the region’s leading producer of hákarl (shark meat). En route back to the hotel stop in Borgarnes for a dip in the town’s geothermal swimming pool. Once darkness falls, head outside to await nature’s light show from the hotel’s outdoor hot tubs. (B,L)

Day 4 Reykholt to Hekla | Explore historic Þingvellir National Park, visit thundering Gullfoss waterfall and continue onwards to the Geysir geothermal fields, where powerful Strokkur geyser erupts into the air every few minutes. Discover the hot springs and bubbling mud pools before visiting a geothermal greenhouse. Finally, step into the darkness to chase the northern lights or enjoy

Departure Dates 2016 Fridays 30 Sep 7, 14, 21, 28 Oct 4, 11, 18, 25 Nov 2 Dec Sundays 2, 16, 30 Oct 13, 27 Nov 4 Dec

the scene from a relaxing hot tub. (B) Day 5 Hekla to Skaftafell | Travel along the south coast and learn about living next to an active volcano at the Eyjafjallajökull Information Centre. Discover sixty metrewide Skógafoss waterfall, visit a fascinating folk museum and take a stroll on the beach at Reynisfjara where white snow contrasts dramatically with volcanic black sand. Check in to the hotel in Vatnajökull National Park for two nights. (B) Day 6 Skaftafell National Park | Explore Skaftafell National Park, home to Europe’s largest glacier. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a highlight – see huge icebergs floating on the ice-cold waters and look out for playful seals. In the evening enjoy a video presentation about the northern lights before heading outside where, if the skies are clear, the aurora may be visible dancing across the night sky. (B) Day 7 Skaftafell to Reykjavík | Discover the impressive Eldhraun lava field and visit Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where those who wish can walk the trail that goes behind the fall. In the afternoon return to Reykjavík before an evening visit to the Blue Lagoon to relax in its mineral-rich waters. Enjoy a farewell dinner followed by one last nocturnal tour in search of the aurora borealis. (B,D) Day 8 Reykjavík to UK | Transfer to the airport for the flight back to the UK. (B)

2017 Fridays 6, 13, 20, 27 Jan 3, 10, 17, 24 Feb 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Mar 7 Apr Sundays 8, 22 Jan 5, 19 Feb 5, 19 Mar 2, 9 Apr

Tour duration

8 days

Holiday type

Group Tour Fully Guided

Seasonality

Sep-Apr

Group size Max 45. Please note we also operate this tour with smaller groups (max 16) please contact us for details. Prices from

£1450 per person

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

Iceland Group Tours

Sixty Metre-High Skógafoss Waterfall

Land of the Northern Lights Experience Iceland at its most spectacular, both during the day and after dark. Travel by coach to visit dazzling glaciers, bathe in the steaming, mineral-rich waters of the Blue Lagoon, pass the famous Eyjafjallajökull volcano, see Strokkur geyser erupt twenty metres into the air and, on a clear night, set off in search of the incredible northern lights. Speak to a specialist about optional accommodation upgrades in Reykjavik and Hella.

Departure Dates 2016 Tuesdays 4, 11, 18, 25 Oct 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Nov 6, 13 Dec Thursdays 6, 13, 20, 27 Oct 3, 10, 17, 24 Nov 1, 8, 15, 29 Dec

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Iceland Explorer for more information and to check availability Day 1 Fly to Reykjavík | Fly to Keflavík Airport and transfer to the hotel in Reykjavík for an overnight stay. Make use of a free evening in the capital to dine at one of the many restaurants, or eat like a local and try a hotdog from the world-famous Bæjarins Beztu. Day 2 Reykjavík to Reykjanes Peninsula | Explore the highlights of Iceland’s quirky capital on a city tour before travelling to Reykjanes Peninsula, the island’s southwesterly extremity. Discover a landscape of hot springs, rugged mountains, colourful fishing villages and isolated lighthouses, and at the end of the day enjoy a relaxing soak in the warm waters of the Blue Lagoon. Famed for the rejuvenating qualities of its white silica mud, no Iceland holiday is complete without a visit to this natural geothermal spa. Check in for two nights at a South Iceland countryside hotel. In the evening learn about the northern lights, and once darkness falls head outside in search of nature’s light show. (B) Day 3 South Iceland | Travel along the south coast, stopping en route at the infamous active volcano that lies beneath the Eyjafjallajökull glacier. Discover Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where those who wish can walk along a trail behind the sheet of water, and visit one of Iceland’s finest folk museums to discover an outstanding collection of farm and domestic artefacts typical of Iceland’s past and uncover the nearby Skogarfoss waterfall. In the

2017 Tuesdays 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Jan 7, 14, 21, 28 Feb 7, 14, 21, 28 Mar 4, 11 Apr Thursdays 5, 12, 19, 26 Jan 2, 9, 16, 23 Feb 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Mar 6, 13 Apr

afternoon, embark on an easy glacier hike on the Solheimajokull glacier or take a stroll on the black lava beach at Reynisfjara, where cliffs have been carved by the Atlantic. In the evening enjoy a presentation about the northern lights and keep a lookout overhead as they may be visible in the night sky. Overnight at Arthus Cottages. (B) Day 4 The Golden Circle | Visit a farm to learn about the Icelandic horse, a pure breed whose origins can be traced back to the settlement of the country in the 9th century. Continue to a geothermal greenhouse and discover one of the ways Icelanders harness the country’s geothermal energy. Before the tour comes to an end, visit the trio of natural wonders collectively known as the Golden Circle – see the hot springs and bubbling pools at Geysir where mighty Strokkur erupts every few minutes, admire the force of Gullfoss waterfall as it tumbles into the Hvítá river and travel inland to Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the continental drift between the North American and Eurasian plates can be seen. Return to Reykjavík for an overnight stay. If conditions are optimal consider booking an optional northern lights tour. (B)

Tour duration

5 days

Holiday type

Group Tour Fully Guided

Seasonality

Oct-Apr

Group size

Max 40

Prices from

£810 per person

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

Day 5 Reykjavík to UK | Transfer to the airport for the flight back to the UK. (B)

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland & the Arctic Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Soak in the Geothermal Waters of the Blue Lagoon

Northern Lights & Winter Wellness Combine Iceland’s natural wonders, including mighty waterfalls, exploding geysers and, if conditions are optimal, the magical northern lights, with the chance to pamper yourself. Soak in the mineral-rich waters of the Blue Lagoon, where the white silica mud is said to have anti-aging properties, and take advantage of the Riverside Spa at Hotel Selfoss with its steam room, sauna, hot pool and rainwater showers.

Departure Dates 2016 Sundays 6, 13, 20, 27 Nov 4, 11 Dec

2017 Sundays 8, 15, 22, 29 Jan 5, 12, 19, 26 Feb 5, 12, 19, 26 Mar

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Iceland Explorer for more information and to check availability Day 1 Fly to Reykjavík | Arrive in Reykjavík and transfer to the Reykjavík Lights Hotel, a comfortable, modern hotel with views over the surrounding mountains. Each room in the hotel is unique and linked to a specific day in the ancient Icelandic calendar. After checking in, perhaps make use of free time to take a short walk to Laugardalur outdoor activity park with Iceland’s largest outdoor thermal pool, or head into the city to experience the many shops, cafés, restaurants, museums and bars. Ask a Regent Iceland Specialist about booking a northern lights evening excursion by coach or Superjeep.

Day 2 Golden Circle | Leaving Reykjavík behind, discover the natural wonders of Iceland’s famous Golden Circle. Start at Þingvellir National Park, the site of a rift valley that marks the crest of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, and the original home of Iceland’s historic first parliament, the Althing. Next, visit thundering Gulfoss waterfall where the Hvítá River rushes southward over a wide curved three-step staircase, before discovering the third wonder – Geysir geothermal area where Strokkur geyser erupts into the air every few minutes. Travel to the 4-star Hotel Selfoss and check in for two nights. Located on the banks of the Ölfusá river, the town of Selfoss is the ideal base to explore South Iceland’s natural attractions. Once darkness falls, head outside to search for the northern lights dancing across the night sky. (B)

Day 3 South Coast | Continue along the southern coast and visit Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls before heading to the Eyjafjalljökull Information Centre to learn about living in the shadow of an active volcano. This ice-capped stratovolcano was the site of the infamous 2010 eruptions. Return to the hotel and spend the afternoon at leisure, making use of included entry to the hotel’s Riverside Spa. With a fire and ice theme, the relaxing spa area features a steam room, sauna, hot pool, rainwater showers, relaxation room, lounge and bar. After dinner, don’t miss another opportunity to head out in search of the mysterious aurora. (B) Day 4 Blue Lagoon | Travel back to the Reykjanes peninsula, past the Krýsuvík geothermal area, to the famous Blue Lagoon to relax in the geothermal waters. The natural minerals of the lagoon including white silica mud are said to have skin-repairing and antiaging properties. Unwinding in the sauna and steam baths which are carved into the lava rock is all part of the Blue Lagoon experience. Suitably relaxed, return to Reykjavík and embark on a tour of the city’s main attractions, including Hallgrímskirkja Church, the Perlan, Hofdi House, Reykjavík City Hall and the Harpa Concert centre. (B) Day 5 Reykjavík to the UK | Transfer to the airport for the flight back to the UK. (B)

Tour duration

5 days

Holiday type

Group Tour Fully Guided

Seasonality

Nov-Mar

Group size

Max 28

Prices from

£875 per person

Includes flights, accommodation, transfers, travel by coach, sightseeing tours and Blue Lagoon & Riverside Spa entry.

Iceland Group Tours

Sunset at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Iceland Northern Lights Hunt Experience Iceland’s incredible Golden Circle and volcanic south coast on this fully escorted winter coach tour. See active volcanoes, immense glaciers, icy waterfalls, black beaches and erupting geysers. Relax in the healing geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon and stay in a remote countryside location – the perfect spot to hunt for the incredible northern lights away from the bright city lights.

Departure Dates 2016 Thursdays 13, 20, 27 Oct 10, 17, 24 Nov 1, 8, 15 Dec

2017 Thursdays 12, 19, 26 Jan 2, 9, 16, 23 Feb 2, 9, 16, 23 Mar

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Iceland Explorer for more information and to check availability Day 1 Fly to Reykjavík | Arrive in Iceland and take the airport shuttle service to the hotel for an overnight stay. Be sure to inform the reception staff if you would like to be woken up for any northern lights sightings. Day 2 Golden Circle | Discover the trio of natural wonders that make up Iceland’s Golden Circle. Begin at historic Þingvellir National Park to roam a landscape defined by its position on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Continue to Gullfoss, a double waterfall that tumbles 34 metres into the Hvita River, before spending time at the Geysir geothermal fields where active Strokkur erupts every few minutes. Visit a farm which breeds Icelandic horses, a breed that has remained pure for over 1,000 years and is known for its unique gait. Drive to Vík, Iceland’s southern-most village, and check in to the country guesthouse for two nights. In the evening head out into the darkness to search for the northern lights in the night sky. (B) Day 3 Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon | Head east along the southern shore to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, a natural wonderland where huge chunks of ice break away from Breiðamerkurjökull glacier and tumble into the lagoon before heading out to sea. The lagoon is filled with fish that drift in from the sea and, in the winter months, seals gather in large numbers to catch their supper. Continue to Skaftafell National Park which contains

around half of Europe’s largest Ice Cap, Vatnajökull, and whose landscape has been formed by thousands of years of ice, fire and water. If conditions are optimal for aurora hunting, head out into the rural surrounds and await the flickering neon lights. (B) Day 4 South Shore & Blue Lagoon | Travel along the south coast to the volcanic black beaches of Reynisfjara, where the impressive offshore towers of basalt rock are a reminder of the once-extensive cliff line. See the three rock stacks rising from the sea – Skessudrangar, Landdrangar and Langhamrar – which according to local folklore were once trolls who were turned to stone. Continue to Skógafoss Waterfall, one of the largest waterfalls in Iceland at 60 metres high, and onwards to Eyjafjallajökull Visitor Centre located at the foot of the infamous volcano responsible for the flight-stopping 2010 ash cloud. Discover picturesque Seljalandsfoss waterfall, one of the most famous in Iceland where those who wish can walk behind the cascade. Finally, end the day relaxing in the mineral-rich waters of the Blue Lagoon before heading back to the capital. Be sure to plaster the white silica mud over face and body for the full Blue Lagoon experience. (B)

Tour duration

5 days

Holiday type

Group Tour Fully Guided

Seasonality

Oct-Mar

Group size

Max 45

Prices from

£895 per person

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

Day 5 Reykjavík to UK | Transfer to the airport for the flight back to the UK. (B)

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland & the Arctic Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Northern Lights at Reykjanes Peninsula

Northern Lights Deluxe Discover South Iceland in style on this exclusive small group tour. See waterfalls, geysers and volcanoes, feel the force of nature beneath your feet on a gentle glacier hike, relax in the healing waters of two geothermal spas and enjoy delicious gourmet meals along the way. After dark, learn about the mysterious aurora borealis before heading out into the night to await the celestial swirls of light.

Departure Dates 2016 Sundays 9, 23 Oct 6, 20 Nov

2017 Sundays 15, 29 Jan 5, 12, 19, 26 Feb 5, 12, 19, 26 Mar 2 Apr

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Iceland Explorer for more information and to check availability Day 1 Fly to Reykjavík | Arrive in Iceland and transfer to the Icelandair Hotel Marina in Reykjavík’s historic harbour district. Perhaps start the holiday with a drink at the hotel’s fashionable Slipp bar or head out to explore the capital. Day 2 Reykjavík to Grímsnes | Begin with a guided city tour of Reykjavík, including the Hallgrímskirkja church tower which offers incredible panoramic views across the city, and learn about Icelandic cheese and local skyr whilst enjoying a delicious lunch in a cheese school buttery. Depart for Þingvellir National Park, stopping at the Fontana Geothermal Baths for a relaxing dip. Arrive at the boutique Hotel Grímsborgir (see page 38) and check in for three nights. After a gourmet three-course dinner, learn about the northern lights and how to photograph them before heading out into the darkness to await the phenomenon from the hotel’s outdoor hot tubs. (B,L,D)

Day 3 Golden Circle & Coast | Discover the natural wonders of the Golden Circle including mighty Gullfoss waterfall, the Geysir geothermal fields and Kerið volcanic crater lake. Meet a local to find out about living in a land of geothermal activity and taste geothermally-boiled eggs in Hveragerði. Travel to the coast, discovering colourful fishing villages and historic buildings, and tasting local produce en route including shark meat, dried fish and the local schnapps,

Brennivín. Dine on langoustine at a coastal restaurant before heading outside to search for the elusive aurora borealis. (B,D) Day 4 Volcanoes & Glaciers | Travel along the south coast, stopping at Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, before visiting the Eyjafjallajökull Information Centre to learn about living next to an active volcano. In the afternoon choose between a three-hour guided walk on a nearby glacier (suitable for beginners) or continuing the coach tour to the volcanic black sand beaches of the south coast. In the evening, enjoy another excellent three-course dinner at Hotel Grímsborgir and watch a video presentation about the northern lights before stepping outside to await the ethereal light show. (B,D) Day 5 Grímsnes to Reykjanes Peninsula | Travel west to the Reykjanes peninsula, characterised by its hot springs, moon-like landscapes and lighthouses. Learn about the story of the Viking expansion at a Viking ship and history museum and enjoy a delicious seafood feast. In the afternoon visit the famous Blue Lagoon and enjoy the Comfort Experience package which includes a drink from the in-water bar and a volcano scrub or algae mask. Check in to the nearby Northern Light Inn and enjoy a delicious local lamb meal. (B,L,D)

Day 6 Reykjavík to UK | Transfer to the airport for the flight back to the UK. (B)

Tour duration

6 days

Holiday type

Group Tour Fully Guided

Seasonality

Oct-Apr

Group size

Max 16

Prices from

£2100 per person

Includes flights, accommodation, transfers, travel by coach, meals as specified, sightseeing tours and entrance to the Fontana Spa and Blue Lagoon.

Iceland Group Tours

Eskifjörður, East Fjords

Classic Iceland Circle Travel North, South and East on this comprehensive winter tour that combines aurora hunting with Iceland’s incredible natural wonders. Discover otherworldly lava fields, soaring waterfalls, deep fjords, black sand beaches, tower volcanoes and bubbling hot springs. Dine with a northern lights photographer and meet the locals of the remote East Fjords to hear about their lives in this isolated part of the country.

Departure Dates 2016 Fridays 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Sep 7, 14, 21, 28 Oct 4, 11, 18, 25 Nov 2, 9, 16 Dec

2017 Fridays 6, 13, 20, 27 Jan 3, 10, 17, 24 Feb 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Mar 7, 14, 21, 28 Apr 5, 12, 19, 26 May

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Iceland Explorer for more information and to check availability Day 1 Fly to Reykjavík | Fly to Iceland and transfer to the hotel in Reykjavík for an overnight stay. Day 2 Reykjavík to Mývatn | Fly north to Akureyri and drive to Godafoss – a spectacular waterfall on a glacial river. Continue to Lake Mývatn, created by a large basaltic lava eruption some 2,300 years ago, and walk around the bizarre lava formations at Kálfaströnd and Dimmuborgir. After dinner relax in the geothermal waters of Mývatn Nature Baths where, if conditions are favourable, it may be possible to see the aurora overhead. (B,D) Day 3 Mývatn to East Iceland | Visit Sigurgeir’s Bird Museum before travelling to the hot spring area of Námaskarð known for its bubbling mud pools and steaming solfataras. Continue through the remote highlands, looking out for wild reindeer, to East Iceland and overnight close to Lake Lögurinn, the perfect rural setting to search for the elusive northern lights. (B,L,D) Day 4 East Fjords | Travel past isolated fishing villages to the small town of Eskifjörður. Visit the Maritime Museum and seafarers’ lodge before continuing to the small village of Fáskrúðsfjörður, a hub for French fishermen in the 19th century. Stay in the former French hospital and dine with a local aurora photographer before heading to her secret northern lights viewing spot. (B,D)

Day 5 East Fjords to Vatnajökull National Park | Travel through the dramatic landscapes and tiny fishing villages of the East Fjords before reaching Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier. Continue to spectacular Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and take a stroll along the black sand beach amidst the stranded icebergs. In the evening make use of the rural setting to search for the northern lights dancing across the night sky. (B,D) Day 6 South Coast | Travel across the Laki lava field, past mountainous cliffs, glaciers and waterfalls. Discover Reynisfjara’s black sand beach, visit impressive Skógafoss waterfall and stop at the Eyjafjallajökull Information Centre to learn about living next to an active volcano. In the evening, the hotel’s outdoor hot tubs are the ideal place to relax and await the magical northern lights. (B,D) Day 7 Golden Circle | Make the journey back to Reykjavík, stopping at the impressive sights of the Golden Circle. Discover hot springs and bubbling mud pools at the Geysir geothermal fields, admire thundering Gullfoss waterfall and visit Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once back in Reykjavík, enjoy a city sightseeing tour of the world’s northern-most capital. Perhaps choose to dine out at one of Reykjavík’s many great restaurants on the final night. (B)

Tour duration

8 days

Holiday type

Group Tour Fully Guided

Seasonality

Sep-May

Group size

Max 30

Prices from

£1350 per person

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

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

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland & the Arctic Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Hidden Powers & Aurora Discover the natural wonders of South Iceland in winter on this six-day coach tour. Feel the power of three of Iceland’s most impressive waterfalls, marvel at Europe’s largest ice cap, walk on volcanic black beaches pounded by the Atlantic and relax in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon. After dark, venture into the still remote reaches of the Icelandic countryside to search for the ethereal northern lights.

Departure Dates 2016 Thursdays 6, 13, 20, 27 Oct 3, 10, 17, 24 Nov 1, 8 Dec

2017 Thursdays 12, 19, 26 Jan 2, 9, 16, 23 Feb 2, 9, 16, 30 Mar 6 Apr

Itinerary Speak to an Iceland Explorer for more information and to check availability Day 1 Fly to Reykjavík | Arrive in Iceland and transfer to the hotel. Make use of a free evening in the world’s northern-most capital. Perhaps choose to dine at one of the many restaurants in the fashionable 101 district or simply relax at the hotel’s Soley Natura Spa. Day 2 Golden Circle | Visit the fascinating Northern Lights Centre in Reykjavík before travelling to Þingvellir National Park where the ancient parliament met for centuries on the shores of Iceland’s largest lake. Continue to the Geysir geothermal fields complete with steaming hot springs, bubbling mud pools and famous Strokkur geyser which erupts into the air every few minutes. Sample geothermallybaked hot spring bread and eggs, along with Icelandic herring and schnapps. Travel on to thundering Gullfoss, one of the most impressive waterfalls in the country, before checking in at the countryside hotel in the small village of Flúðir. After dark, head outside in search of the celestial northern lights in the winter sky. (B)

Day 3 Flúðir to Kirkjubæjarklaustur | Visit an innovative Icelandic farm before travelling along the dramatic south coast to the spectacular Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls. Stroll on the volcanic black sands of Reynisfjara beach and see the extraordinary rock formations and thundering waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Check in to the remote countryside hotel in South Iceland for two nights, and at nightfall head

outside for another opportunity to search for the aurora borealis. (B) Day 4 Skaftafell National Park | Explore Skaftafell National Park, an area of outstanding natural beauty dominated by Europe’s largest ice cap, Vatnajökull. Enjoy breathtaking views of the peaks and glaciers before visiting Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon where giant icebergs calve from the glacier and crash into the lagoon before slowly drifting towards the Atlantic. View the photogenic ice sculptures from the shore and look out for seals in the bright blue waters. A final night in the countryside offers another opportunity to search for the aurora away from the light pollution of the city. (B) Day 5 Kirkjubæjarklaustur to Reykjavík | Explore the region surrounding infamous Eyjafjallajökull, the volcano responsible for the 2010 ash cloud. Travel to the geothermal village of Hveragerði where greenhouses are heated by hot water from nearby springs, stopping en route at a 12th century Lutheran church known locally as the miracle church. Travel along the coast to Reykjanes peninsula for a rejuvenating soak in the world famous Blue Lagoon. Renowned for their healing qualities, the mineral-rich waters are said to have anti-aging properties. Continue back to Reykjavík for a final night in the capital. (B) Day 6 Reykjavík to UK | Transfer to the airport for the flight back to the UK. (B)

Tour duration

6 days

Holiday type

Group Tour Fully Guided

Seasonality

Oct-Apr

Group size

Max 36

Prices from

£975 per person

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

Iceland Group Tours

Northern Lights, Snæfellsnes Peninsula

West Iceland Wonders Explore the charming fishing villages and stunning fjord regions of West Iceland during the day, sampling freshly caught scallops before looking to the skies at night for the northern lights on this winter coach tour. Then experience the natural wonders of the region, from Europe’s most powerful hot spring to the mighty stratovolcano made famous by novelist Jules Verne in Journey to the Centre of the Earth.

Departure Dates 2016 Wednesdays 26 Oct 2, 16, 23, 30 Nov 7 Dec

2017 Wednesdays 25 Jan 1, 8, 15, 22 Feb 8, 15, 22, 29 Mar 5 Apr

Itinerary Speak to an Iceland Explorer for more information and to check availability Day 1 Fly to Reykjavík | Arrive in Iceland’s capital and check in to the hotel. Spend the evening at leisure. Perhaps head to Laugavegur where the restaurants and bars are plentiful. Day 2 Reykjavík to Borgarnes | Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Iceland’s colourful capital before departing for the west coast. Visit the Akranes Museum Centre which houses a comprehensive collection of geological and maritime exhibits, take in spectacular views from the top of a lighthouse and learn about Iceland’s folklore at Fossatún Troll Gardens. Discover the bubbling waters of Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring, and stop in Reykholt, home of Icelandic Saga writer Snorri Sturluson. Check in for two nights at the hotel in Borgarnes, a small west coast town located on the edge of a fjord. After dark, head into the winter night to search for the mystical northern lights. (B) Day 3 Snæfellsnes Peninsula | Travel to the West Iceland peninsula crowned by the impressive Snæfellsjökull ice cap. Discover the attractive fishing town of Stykkishólmur and sample freshly caught scallops on a boat tour in Breiðafjörður fjord. Weather permitting, visit the pretty fishing village of Grundarfjörður with its impressive coastline framed by mountains. Jutting out into the bay is one of the most photographed mountains in Iceland, Mt Kirkjufell. Travel back to

Borgarnes for another chance to search for the elusive aurora borealis. (B) Day 4 Borgarnes to Hveragerði | Head south to discover the natural wonders of the Golden Circle. See the mighty Gullfoss waterfall tumble and crash down a deep meandering gorge, watch as the active Strokkur geysir spouts jets of water twenty metres into the air at the Geysir geothermal field and visit Þingvellir, a historic National Park situated on the tectonic plate boundaries of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Stop at Erpsstadir dairy farm and sample delicious local skyr, an organic yogurt that has been enjoyed in Iceland since Viking times. Continue to the hot spring town of Hveragerði and check in to the hotel. In the evening, enjoy a performance at Fákasel Icelandic Horse Theatre. (B) Day 5 Hveragerði to Reykjavík | Travel along the coastline of Reykjanes Peninsula and stop at Strandarkirkja, a 12th century church popularly believed to be responsible for divine miracles. Discover Lake Kleifarvatn, set in moonlike surroundings, and Krýsuvík bubbling springs, where powerful jets of steam escape from deep below the Earth’s crust. Continue to the famous Blue Lagoon and take a dip in the healing geothermal waters, rich in active ingredients including white silica mud. In the evening travel back to Reykjavík for the final night. (B)

Tour duration

6 days

Holiday type

Group Tour Fully Guided

Seasonality

Oct-Apr

Group size

Max 36

Prices from

£995 per person

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

Day 6 Reykjavík to UK | Transfer to the airport for the flight back to the UK. (B)

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to an Iceland & the Arctic Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Welcome to

Greenland Straddling the Arctic Circle, Greenland is the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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. Regentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Greenland Travel Specialists can tailor-make your very own Arctic adventure, including ice fjord cruising, scenic flights, whale watching, dog sledging and even visiting a local home to gain an insight into life at the top of the world.

Greenland TRAVEL KNOWHOW Flight time from UK: Approx. 5 hours (1 change) Time zone: West GMT -3 /East GMT -1 Capital: Nuuk Language: Greenlandic Currency: Danish Krone Population: Approx. 56, 000 GREENLAND IN NUMBERS

20 5,000 15 80 3,500 250

Billion tonnes of ice calved from Sermeq Kujalleq annually

Years of Inuit settlement

Types of whale found in Greenlandic waters

Percent of the country covered by the inland Ice Cap

Husky dogs living in Ilulissat

People living in Kulusuk

For our full range of itineraries & group tours, visit our website or speak to a Regent Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Greenland The Inside Story The least densely populated country in the world, Greenland is one of the last true wilderness destinations. The scale of nature here is almost incomprehensible, with one hundred-metre icebergs rising from the sea, an enormous Ice Cap containing ten per cent of the world’s fresh water and groaning glaciers moving as quickly as forty metres per day. 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 embark on a boat trip into the Arctic waters around Illulisat and cruise between deep fjords and towering icebergs, keeping an eye out for whales and seals. Scenic flights over the incredible inland Ice Cap provide an insight into the scale of this colossal force of nature. While Greenland’s polar bears are hibernating in the winter months, it’s the magical northern lights that instead come out to play. With minimal ambient light from the island’s tiny towns and settlements, searching for the northern lights often means just stepping outside the door. Kangerlussuaq boasts over 300 nights of clear sky a year, and a drive to the edge of the nearby Ice Cap provides the perfect setting and conditions for aurora hunting.

Story to tell Shane Hosiene

Why I love Greenland From Ilulissat, travel by boat to the edge of the spectacular Eqi glacier and if you are fortunate you may see and hear the immense crashing sound as icebergs are calved from the glacier. Watch the icebergs glide past houses, along the fjords and out to sea.

Greenland

Regent Recommends East Greenland

Inuit Culture

Scenic Flights

Simply arriving at Kulusuk airport gives you a sense of the adventure ahead. Located on a mountainous island in the least populated part of the country, just stepping outside the airport provides dramatic views of ice-filled fjords. Home to just 250 residents, the small settlement of Kulusuk is cut off by pack ice in the winter months, with locals relying on hunting and fishing to survive. Here, the only means of travel is by husky-sled, and Regent can organise dog-sled adventures ranging from day trips across the sea ice to Apusiaajik Glacier to week-long expeditions travelling between fjords, mountains and remote settlements, overnighting in mountain huts beneath the northern lights.

Although evidence suggests that Greenland’s first inhabitants arrived some 4,500 years ago, it was the Thule people, arriving from Canada in the 10th century, who spread across the country bringing with them kayaks, harpoons and dogsleds. Around 80 per cent of Greenland’s population today are of Inuit descent, and their traditional way of life plays as much a part – if not more – than modern day Danish influences. Experience this culture first hand on a boat trip from Ilulissat to the tiny settlement of Oqaitsut (Rodebay), where the population of just forty inhabitants are entirely dependent on hunting and fishing. Ask your Regent Travel Specialist about cultural encounters in West Greenland.

The scale of Ilulissat’s Icefjord, with its gigantic icebergs calved from the world’s fastest moving glacier, is nothing short of mind-blowing. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this mighty natural wonder is best viewed from the air where the magnitude of the towering blocks of ice can be fully grasped. Board a fiver-seater aircraft, where every seat is a window seat, and fly at low altitude towards the glacier wall. Getting as close as safety allows, feel the rumble of the glacier calving beneath you before heading towards the underwater moraine for breathtaking views of the colossal icebergs and their rooftop lakes. Ask a Regent Greenland Specialist about scenic flights designed with photography in mind.

57 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Greenland Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Greenland’s Immense Ice Cap

Aurora & Polar Circle Adventure Greenland’s only inland town is one of the best places in the country to experience the northern lights, with over 300 nights of clear sky a year. A true wilderness destination, this short break in Kangerlussuaq provides the opportunity to experience nature at its most raw: reindeer and musk oxen call this region home and the mighty inland Ice Cap is just a few miles away.

Itinerary Speak to a Greenland Explorer for the full range of optional excursions Day 1 Copenhagen to Kangerlussuaq | Fly direct from Denmark’s capital to the Greenlandic settlement of Kangerlussuaq, home to just 600 residents. On arrival, meet the local guide and transfer to Hotel Kangerlussuaq for four nights. A modern hotel with 70 rooms, Hotel Kangerlussuaq is a focal point for the small settlement, and its bar, restaurant and Café Isikkivik are a hub for tourists and locals alike. Ask a Regent Greenland specialist about booking an optional northern lights tour and head out into the wilderness with a knowledgeable local guide in search of the natural phenomenon. Day 2 Kangerlussuaq | With three full days to explore at leisure, we recommend booking excursions in advance to make the most of your time in Kangerlussuaq. Perhaps begin with an orientation city tour and learn about the history of the settlement and the former American base, Bluie West-8. From early January to late March the best way to experience the icy wilderness is by sledge. Wrap up warm and travel as the Inuits have done for centuries on an optional two hour husky sledging adventure. (B)

Day 3 Kangerlussuaq | Kangerlussuaq’s inland location means that it is just a short drive to Greenland’s immense Ice Cap. Consider booking an optional excursion to this mighty sheet of ice that covers around 85% of the

country. Drive along mountain tracks through the spectacular Arctic landscape, passing former glacier valleys and the Arctic desert, along frozen rivers and over small passes, before stopping next to the 3-million cubic kilometre Ice Cap. (B) Day 4 Kangerlussuaq | To gain a better sense of the scale of Greenland’s ice sheet, perhaps choose to take an optional 25 minute scenic flight over the colossal inland Ice Cap. Fly at low altitude in a comfortable 5-seater aircraft where every seat is a window seat, and keep an eye out for Musk Oxen roaming the wilderness below. Don’t miss a final opportunity to search for the magical northern lights after dark. (B) Day 5 Fly to Copenhagen | Fly back to the Danish capital. Ask your Regent Explorer about adding a city break in Copenhagen. (B)

Tour duration

5 days

Holiday type

Tailor-made Optional excursions

Seasonality

Mondays, Thursdays & Fridays from 3 Nov 2016 to 17 Mar 2017

Prices from

£1365 per person

Includes flights from Copenhagen, transfers, accommodation & breakfast.

Greenland

Winter on the Ice Fjord

Northern Lights in Ilulissat The only UNESCO-protected site in Greenland, Ilulissat boasts one of the world’s most productive glaciers: Sermeq Kujalleq calves around 46 cubic kilometres of ice every year, decorating the seas around the town with gigantic icebergs as tall as skyscrapers. Located 200 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle, the town’s northerly position also means that chances of seeing the northern lights are extremely high.

Itinerary Speak to a Greenland Explorer for the full range of optional excursions Day 1 Reykjavík to Ilulissat | Fly to Ilulissat from Reykjavík Domestic Airport and transfer to Hotel Arctic for three nights. 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. Attend a welcome meeting before enjoying a walking tour, visiting the historic part of town including the buildings from the original Danish trading station. In the evening, the hotel’s Restaurant Ulo offers a gastronomic dining experience where fresh, contemporary dishes can be enjoyed whilst icebergs drift past. After dinner be sure to wrap up warm to head outside in search of the northern lights. Right in the middle of the auroral footprint, with very little ambient light, chances of seeing the northern lights in West Greenland are high. (D) Day 2 Ilulissat | Ask your Regent Greenland specialist about optional excursions available on this free day. Perhaps choose to take a scenic flight over the ice fjord where a bird’s eye view provides an incredible insight into the scale of the ice below or take a boat trip through the ice-strewn waters to remote Rodebay. This small Inuit settlement, also known as Oqaitsuth, has a local population of around 40 people who are dependent on fishing and hunting. The excursion includes a guided walk and lunch at the old trading station. In the evening perhaps enjoy dinner at Restaurant Ulo before heading out into the winter night to await the aurora. (B)

Day 3 Ilulissat | Ask your Regent Greenland specialist about optional excursions available on this free day. Perhaps join a cruise between the enormous icebergs that tower 100 metres above sea level or embark on an invigorating dog sledging adventure across the neverending white landscape. There are around 3,500 working sledge dogs in Ilulissat, which transport locals and tourists alike in the winter months. It’s also possible to explore the icy wilderness by snowmobile, discovering the scale of the backcountry as the low sun illuminates the landscape. After dinner, a final opportunity to scour the night sky for the northern lights should not be missed. (B,D) Day 4 Ilulissat to Reykjavík | Transfer to the airport for the flight back to Reykjavík. Continue onwards to the UK or ask your Regent Greenland Specialist about combining this holiday with time in Iceland. (B)

Tour duration

4 days

Holiday type

Tailor-made Optional excursions

Seasonality

Saturdays from 18 Feb

Prices from

£1540 per person

Includes flights from Reykjavík, accommodation, transfers & meals as specified.

59 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Greenland Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Welcome to

Lapland Finlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s northernmost province of Lapland is an Arctic playground where the resident reindeers outnumber the people. Family memories are made here â&#x20AC;&#x201C; visiting Santa Claus at his official home in Rovaniemi, staying in an ice hotel, mushing through the snow on a traditional dog sled or dashing through the glittering landscape on an adrenaline-packed snowmobile safari. With a winter that lasts around 200 days, the northern lights can be seen painting ribbons of colour across the sky from late August until mid-April. Wrap up warm and hunt for them on an evening reindeer sled safari or lie back in your glass-domed igloo and watch the starry night sky from the comfort of your own bed.

Lapland TRAVEL KNOWHOW Flight time from UK: Approx. 5 hours (1 change) Time zone: GMT +2 Capital: Helsinki Language: Finnish + minority languages Currency: Euro Population: 5.4 million LAPLAND IN NUMBERS

15 -5 140

Million letters received by Santa Claus since 1985

Degrees Celsius in the Arctic Snow Hotel, Rovaniemi

Miles of cross-country ski routes in Levi

34,500 200 2 Reindeers in Finnish Lapland

Aurora nights a year

Million saunas

For a full range of Lapland itineraries, visit our website or speak to a Regent Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Lapland The Inside Story Sitting directly on the Arctic Circle, Rovaniemi is the capital of Lapland where every one of the 200 days of winter feels as festive as the last. Ideal for families, amenities are close to hand, from the bars and restaurants of the compact centre to the countless winter activities in the surrounding wilderness. Try your hand at mushing a husky sled or visit a reindeer farm and enjoy a sleigh ride through the snowy fells. Just a fifteen-minute transfer from the city, Santa Claus Village â&#x20AC;&#x201C; official residence of the man in red â&#x20AC;&#x201C; is a must for kids at any time of the year. For those looking for a more remote experience, fly further north to Ivalo or KittilĂ¤ where a short drive from the airport delivers unending Lappish wilderness. Here, isolation plays a part in providing the ideal conditions for aurora viewing, and the endless snow-covered landscapes are best explored by snowmobile or dog sled. Finnish Lapland has a wealth of unique accommodation, from glass igloos and thermally-heated tents to ice hotels and traditional log cabins. Regent recommends mixing and matching to make the most of your holiday. Perhaps follow a night in an ice room with a cosy hotel stay, or split your time between a glass igloo and log cabin.

Story to tell Emma Brown

Why I love Lapland For me, travelling through snow-bound forests in Finnish Lapland on a sledge pulled by husky dogs was unforgettable. The sound of their paws crunching on the snow was all I could hear as I sped across the Arctic landscape. It was such an exhilarating experience and something that the whole family can enjoy.

Lapland

Regent Recommends Helsinki City Breaks

Husky Safari

Family Time

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 Lapland Specialist for details.

Husky dogs are perfectly suited to the conditions found in Lapland and have been used for centuries to pull sleds for hunting and travel. Renowned for speed and endurance they were born to pull, so grab the reins and embark upon an exhilarating husky safari into the untouched wilderness of the Arctic with your own trusty team of dogs to guide you. Cross vast frozen lakes, charge through dense forest admiring the invariably beautiful landscapes, and appreciate the surrounding silence, broken only by the patter of paws and the sled gliding across the snow. Speak to a Regent Lapland Specialist about overnight husky excursions in Lapland or visit our website for more details.

Lapland is a magical place for children – a once in a lifetime family holiday where dreams are brought to life. Here, winter adventures are designed with children in mind, and husky sled and reindeer sleigh journeys are preceded by an opportunity to meet and feed the animals. Top of the list for children and big kids alike is a visit to Santa Claus Village on the outskirts of Rovaniemi. This enchanted Christmas theme park provides festive fun year-round with an opportunity to meet the man himself and hand-deliver Christmas wish lists. Add another element of family fun with a night in a snow hotel, glass-domed igloo or in a Christmas themed city centre hotel room for the ultimate Lapland experience.

63 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Lapland Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Glass Igloos, Kakslauttanen

Lapland Winter Escape Home to Lapland’s unique igloo village, Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort lies high above the Arctic Circle in the heart of the Lappish wilderness. Spend three nights in this winter wonderland, exploring the glistening white landscapes by snowmobile or husky sled, and after dark search for the magical northern lights on a thrilling reindeer sled safari or from the comfort of your very own glass-domed igloo.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Lapland Explorer for more information Day 1 Fly to Ivalo | Fly to Ivalo via Helsinki and transfer to Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. Check in to a secluded log cabin and spend the evening relaxing by the roaring fire or dining at one of the resort’s two Lappish restaurants. For those bold enough to brave the elements, head to one of Kakslauttanen’s five smoke saunas before jumping into the frozen river for a truly energising Finnish experience. Day 2 Kakslauttanen | Pre-book optional activities to explore the wilderness in true Lapland style. Take a snowmobile or snow tank adventure through the white forest, or opt for a more traditional method of transport with a thrilling ride on a husky or reindeer sled. After dark, hire skis or snowshoes and head out into the Arctic wilderness in search of the incredible aurora borealis – or perhaps book a night in one of the resort’s unique glass igloos

and watch the starry night from the comfort of your reclining bed. (B) Day 3 Kakslauttanen | Try your hand at another winter adventure activity or fulfil childhood dreams with a visit to Santa’s home at Kakslauttanen’s festively-decked grotto, complete with elves and reindeer. Understandably the man himself is pretty busy during the winter months – be sure to pre-book a Santa visit in advance. After dark, perhaps consider an evening reindeer sled safari or horseback ride in search of the swirling northern lights or relax in the warmth of the resort’s glass igloo bar. (B) Day 4 Ivalo to UK | Transfer back to Ivalo airport for the return flight to the UK via Helsinki. Speak to a Regent Specialist to add on a city break in Finland’s capital. (B)

Tour duration

4 days

Holiday type

Tailor-made Optional excursions

Seasonality

Nov-Apr

Prices from

£985 per person

Includes domestic flights, accommodation, transfers and excursions

Choose your accommodation

Ideal for winter honeymooners and adventure-seeking families alike, Kakslauttanen has a range of accommodation to choose from.

Glass Igloos

Kelo-Glass Igloos

Nestled between the snow-draped trees of the forest, these enchanting thermal-glass domes feature in almost every guide to the word’s best unique accommodation. Providing all the magic of sleeping under the night sky without braving the elements, each two-person igloo is a cosy, private stargazing capsule with its own reclining bed, toilet and hand basin. Only available during the aurora season, these all-glass pods are ideal for a romantic northern lights break. Hotel facilities including showers are just a short walk away. An extra children’s bed can be added to the dome on request.

Offering the best of both worlds, Kakslauttanen’s sixteen Kelo-Glass Igloos combine the comforting warmth of a wooden cabin and the sensational skyward views of a glass igloo. Ideal for families, each cosy cabin sleeps up to six people and provides a winter home-away-from-home with its own private sauna, bathroom and kitchenette. Attached to each kelo-wood cabin is a glass igloo – take it in turns to sleep under the stars and keep watch for the northern lights flickering overhead. After a magical day exploring the surrounding winter wonderland, warm up in front of the cabin’s roaring log fire.

Log Cabins

Restaurant Aurora

Built from the huge kelo pines native to Finnish Lapland, each rustic wooden cabin can sleep up to four people, with one double bed and one set of bunk beds. Hidden amongst the Lappish trees, these snug little chalets are ideal for a digital detox, with a roaring log fire and private sauna taking the place of television and wifi. Each cabin is fully equipped with kitchenette and bathroom, making them the perfect retreat for families after a busy day on the snow. Upgrade to a larger cabin for an extra sofa bed and bathroom, or request the Queen Suite or Wedding Chamber for a special occasion.

Brand new to Kakslauttanen’s West Village is Restaurant Aurora, a lively Arctic hang-out comprising three private dining rooms centred around a mesmerising salmon tank. This atmospheric dining space, crafted from colossal Finnish tree trunks, serves a wonderful selection of local Lappish cuisine as well as Asian specialities. Arctic-themed artworks and installations – many of which are created during the Arctic Art Week hosted by Kakslauttanen in the summer months – add to the restaurant’s quirky interior design. When it’s time to kick back with a cocktail or two, the glass igloo bar has views like no other place on Earth.

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Lapland Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Nellim Wilderness Hotel

Nellim Wilderness Hotel In the far north of Finnish Lapland, on the edge of beautiful Lake Inari, Nellim Wilderness Hotel is a remote retreat where snow-covered forests and frozen lakes provide the backdrop to the day’s adventures. Learn how to drive your own husky-sled through the Lappish wilderness, snowshoe through glittering forest trails and search for the northern lights on a starlit snowmobile safari on this fully-inclusive short break.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Lapland Explorer for more information Day 1 Fly to Ivalo | Fly to Ivalo Airport in Northern Lapland and transfer to Nellim Wilderness Hotel, located in the heart of the forest just a few kilometres from the Russian border. Enjoy a Lappish buffet dinner in the cosy wood-cabin restaurant before checking in to a Wilderness Room. Ask a Regent Lapland Explorer about upgrading to a private Log Cabin with its own living space, kitchenette and sauna. (D) Day 2 Snowmobile Safari | Embark on a snowmobile safari through the glistening Finnish landscape, stopping to visit a local reindeer farm. Hand-feed the animals and learn more about this arctic way of life before zipping back through the snowy forests. After dinner, travel to one of the hotel’s special Aurora Camps – remote viewing spots far away from any light pollution – to search for the swirling northern lights. (B,L,D)

Day 3 Husky Safari | Learn how to mush a traditional dog-sled before heading out with your own pack of huskies across the beautiful frozen waters of Lake Inari. After dinner, take to the snowmobiles once again for a starlit safari past lakes and forest, searching the northern skies for the magical aurora borealis. (B,L,D) Day 4 Snowshoe Trek | Don snowshoes and follow trails into the snow-draped forest, returning to the hotel to warm up in the sauna. Perhaps upgrade to an Aurora Bubble for the final night’s accommodation. These compact cabins topped with Perspex domes provide unending views of the northern skies from the comfort of your own bed. (B,L,D) Day 5 Nellim to UK | Transfer back to Ivalo Airport for the return flight to the UK via Helsinki. (B)

Tour duration

5 days

Holiday type

Tailor-made Guided excursions

Seasonality

Nov-Mar

Prices from

£1299 per person

Includes flights, transfers, accommodation, meals and excursions.

Lapland

Aurora over Muotka Wilderness Lodge

Muotka Wilderness Lodge An hour from Ivalo – Finland’s northernmost airport – Muotka Wilderness Lodge is set deep in the forest, next to the arctic fells of Urho Kekkonen National Park. Far away from any light pollution, this remote Lapland lodge is the ideal spot for aurora hunting. Spend winter days exploring the silent snow-covered landscapes on included snowmobile and husky safaris, before heading out to gaze at the night sky.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Lapland Explorer for more information Day 1 Fly to Ivalo | Fly to Ivalo via Helsinki and transfer to Muotka Wilderness Lodge. Enjoy dinner at the lodge’s restaurant, where seasonal Lappish cuisine is served daily, before checking in to a cosy Wilderness Room. Ask a Regent Lapland Explorer about upgrading to a Riverside Suite or Aurora Cabin – a spacious private chalet with skyward windows for aurora viewing. (D) Day 2 Snowmobile Safari | Begin the Lapland adventure with a thrilling snowmobile safari. Speed across the crisp white landscape to a local reindeer farm and enjoy a short sleigh ride before the exhilarating snowmobile ride back to the lodge. After dinner, join an aurora hunt, heading up into the fells where the northern skies open out into a blanket of stars. (B,L,D) Day 3 Husky Safari | Visit a nearby husky farm and discover more about these working canines before setting off on a two hour

dog-sled ride through the icy wilderness. Learn how to drive your own team of huskies, stopping to warm up with coffee and pancakes around the campfire. Spend the afternoon relaxing at the lodge or unwind with a traditional Finnish sauna. (B,L,D) Day 4 Cross-Country Skiing | Spend the morning exploring the beautiful forests surrounding Muotka on a guided snowshoe walk. Later head back into the forest and discover the glittering landscape by crosscountry ski, warming up with a hot drink in the peaceful wilderness. After dinner, relax in the sauna or head outside to search for the swirling northern lights. (B,L,D) Day 5 Muotka to UK | Transfer back to Ivalo Airport for the return flight to the UK via Helsinki. (B)

Tour duration

5 days

Holiday type

Tailor-made Guided excursions

Seasonality

Nov-Mar

Prices from

£1425 per person

Includes flights, transfers, accommodation, meals and excursions.

67 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Lapland Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Aurora dome

Glamping Under the Northern Lights Travel to the far north of Finnish Lapland and explore the remote region of Muonio by husky-sled, reindeer sleigh and snowmobile on this fully inclusive short break. On the final evening spend a night camping under the starry winter sky. This, of course, is no ordinary camping experience – luxury thermal tents provide a cosy base from which to lie back and watch for the incredible aurora.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Lapland Explorer for more information Day 1 Fly to Kittilä | Fly to Kittilä Airport in Finnish Lapland and transfer to Hotel Jeris on the edge of Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park. Collect warm winter clothing for the adventure ahead and check in to a cosy log cabin for three nights. Dinner is served in the hotel restaurant overlooking Lake Jerisjärvi. (D) Day 2 Husky & Reindeer Safari | Visit a nearby husky farm and meet some of the pups before heading off on a thrilling six kilometre dog-sled ride. After lunch in an ice restaurant visit a local reindeer farm for a chance to feed the animals, and enjoy a short sleigh ride through the forest with a Lappish herder at the reins. After dinner at the hotel, relax by the fire or stroll outside to search for the northern lights overhead. (B,L,D) Day 3 Snowmobile Safari | Head out into the wilderness on snowmobiles for a heart-racing

adventure through the glittering landscape. After lunch, don snowshoes and spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful national park at leisure. The northern lights are seen almost every other clear night in Muonio so be sure to head outside after dark. (B,L,D) Day 4 Glamping | Spend the day exploring the winter landscape at leisure before checking in to an Aurora Dome for the final night. Each igloo-shaped tent has a north-facing transparent side to ensure the best possible view of the starlit sky and ever-elusive northern lights. Light the log burner and snuggle under the blankets for a unique night of cosy glamping. (B,L,D) Day 5 Muonio to UK | Transfer back to Ivalo Airport for the return flight to the UK via Helsinki. (B)

Tour duration

5 days

Holiday type

Tailor-made Guided excursions

Seasonality

Nov-Mar

Prices from

£1249 per person

Includes flights, transfers, accommodation, meals and excursions.

Lapland

View of Northern Lights from Glass Igloo

Lapland Igloo & Ice Hotel For the ultimate Arctic experience, travel to Finnish Lapland and spend two nights in a glass igloo and one night in a hotel room carved from ice. Watch the northern lights paint ribbons of colour across the sky from the glass-ceilinged igloo, enjoy an extrachilled drink at the Ice Gallery bar and take part in exhilarating winter activities from snowmobiling to husky sledging.

Itinerary Ask a Regent Lapland Explorer about direct flights to Kittila Day 1 Travel to Levi | Fly to Kittilä via Helsinki and transfer to Levi. Spend two nights in a Golden Crown glass igloo, located on the edge of a fell and surrounded by nature. Each glass-ceilinged igloo has a fully-equipped kitchenette, shower and toilet. At the centre of each is a motorised double bed from which you can watch the northern lights dancing across the night sky. Upgrade to a Premium Igloo for uninterrupted panoramic views across the snowy fell. Day 2 Levi | The flat area surrounding the fell is ideal for activities such as cross-country skiing, dog sledging and snowmobiling. Make use of a free day to take part in exhilarating winter activities and perhaps take an evening northern lights snowmobile safari before retreating to the igloo to drift off under the starry night sky. Ask a Regent Lapland Specialist to pre-book optional activities. (B)

Day 4 Levi | Perhaps pay an optional visit to the Luvattumaa River Spa before checking out. The natural spa’s hot and cold open-air baths, traditional sauna and ice sauna are the perfect way to rejuvenate body and soul. Transfer to the Hullo Poro (Crazy Reindeer) Hotel in the centre of Levi and spend the day at leisure. Perhaps take an optional ice fishing safari, travelling by snowmobile to a private fishing lake and drilling into the ice to fish for rainbow trout. Don’t miss a final opportunity to search for the ethereal northern lights after dark. For an end-of-holiday treat, Regent recommends the legendary Lapland à la carte restaurant, Valkea Vaadin, in Levin Tori square, where Nordic game and fresh local fish are served in atmospheric Lappish style. (B) Day 5 Levi to the UK | Transfer to Kittilä airport for the return flight to the UK via Helsinki. (B)

Tour duration

5 days

Holiday type

Tailor-made Optional excursions

Seasonality

Dec-Apr

Prices from

£1349 per person

Includes flights, accommodation and transfers

Day 3 Ice Hotel | Check in to the Levi Ice Gallery for an overnight stay in an ice room. Each year the impressive snow castle is newly built for winter. Discover the fairytale snow hotel, snow chapel, ice bar and ice art gallery, and perhaps enjoy dinner by the fire in the Lappish Hut restaurant before snuggling into sleeping bags for a sub-zero night. Each magical ice room is individually decorated with ice sculptures, snow reliefs and lights. (B)

69 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Lapland Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Santa’s Aurora Arctic View Glass Room

Lapland Wilderness Break Located in the middle of Finnish Lapland, only ninety minutes from the Arctic Circle, Luosto is a ski and Arctic safari resort in the heart of the national forest. Stay at Santa’s Aurora Hotel, spending two nights in a cosy room with its own sauna and two nights in a unique glass dome with uninterrupted skyward views. Authentic husky sled and reindeer sleigh rides are a holiday highlight.

Itinerary Ask a Regent Lapland Explorer to tailor-make this itinerary Day 1 Fly to Rovaniemi | Fly to Rovaniemi via Helsinki and transfer to Luosto, a journey of around one and a half hours. Check in to Santa’s Hotel Aurora for two nights in a Standard room. Each of the beautifully furnished cosy rooms has it own sauna for relaxing after a busy day of winter activities. In northern Lapland the aurora borealis can be seen on around 200 nights of the year, and normally appears just before midnight. Each room has an aurora alarm phone to wake guests for late night northern lights displays. Day 2 Luosto | Take part in optional winter activities on this free day in Luosto. Perhaps join an exhilarating snowmobile safari into the Lappish wilderness, travelling across frozen swamps and through forests covered with snow, or enjoy a husky safari and travel by traditional sled. In the evening, head to the hotel restaurant and enjoy Nordic fare from the lava stone grill. (B)

Day 3 Luosto | Check in to a Santa’s Aurora Arctic View room for two nights. With glass walls and ceilings, these unique pods are designed in the style of a traditional Lappish hut. Make use of a free day to take an optional excursion to a reindeer farm or enjoy a memorable reindeer sleigh ride through snowy forests. In the evening retreat to the glass Arctic View room and watch the night sky for celestial auroral displays. (B)

Day 4 Luosto | Enjoy optional winter activities on the last day in Luosto. Perhaps embark on a snowshoe hike in the national park, try crosscountry skiing on one of the many nearby trails or head into the wilderness for a spot of ice fishing. Ask a Regent Lapland Specialist to prebook optional activities. In the evening enjoy a final night in the wonderful glass room with uninterrupted skyward views. (B) Day 5 Luosto to the UK | Transfer to Rovaniemi, capital of Lapland. Time permitting, perhaps pay a visit to Santa Claus at his official home before the return flight to the UK via Helsinki. At this festive village of twinkling lights and winter cheer, children and the young at heart can meet Santa himself and discover the post room where elves sort through Christmas letters from around the world. (B)

Tour duration

5 days

Holiday type

Tailor-made Optional excursions

Seasonality

Dec-Apr

Prices from

£1285 per person

Includes flights, accommodation and transfers

Lapland

Lappish Log Cabin in Luosto

Lapland Log Cabin Break With over 120 log cabins in Luosto in northern Lapland, these self-catering properties make ideal Arctic holiday homes for adventure-seeking families. Spend days exploring the snowy Lappish landscape by husky sled, reindeer sleigh, snowmobile or cross-country skis and head out after dark in search of ‘fox fires’ – the local name for the northern lights sweeping their tails across the night sky.

The Cabins For more information, visit our website Located in the ski and Arctic safari resort of Luosto, these individual log cabins can be reached in around an hour and a half from Rovaniemi, capital of Lapland. For the ultimate family experience, Regent recommends a trip to Rovaniemi to visit Santa Claus in his official home before transferring to Luosto. Scattered around the village, each of the 120 log cottages is built according to traditional style and made of local kelo wood. Offering accommodation for couples up to groups of twelve people, no two huts are the same. Each comes complete with a fully-equipped kitchen, cosy fireplace, sauna and television. Cabins with a washing machine or drying cabinet can be requested from a Regent Lapland Specialist. For those who wish to have a break from the kitchen, professional chefs from nearby Restaurant Kerttuli offer guests

the opportunity to taste Lappish gastronomic delights with a fully catered service. Opportunities to explore this Arctic adventure playground are plentiful. Visit one of Luosto’s two reindeer farms to learn about reindeer husbandry, or opt for a thrilling sleigh ride through the snowy wilderness. The Arctic Husky Farm is just ten minutes from Luosto and offers the chance to meet the dogs or travel through the wilderness on an exhilarating dog sled safari. Explore the glittering landscape by snowmobile, or head out after dark on an aurora hunting snowmobile adventure. For Arctic adrenaline junkies, perhaps try ice climbing up a frozen waterfall or for the ultimate Finnish experience follow a hot sauna with a swim in a frozen lake.

Holiday duration 7 days Holiday type

Tailor-made Optional excursions

Seasonality

Nov-Apr

Prices from

£705 per person

Includes flights, transfers and accommodation (Based on 4 sharing)

71 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Lapland Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Riverside Log Cabin

Arctic Riverside Retreat Relax in traditional Finnish log cabin accommodation in the heart of Finnish Lapland surrounded by the frozen rapids of the River Raudanjoki. Travel across the snowy wilderness by snowmobile, reindeer sleigh and husky sled, go in search of the northern lights, and hike the large and diverse network of wintry trails on this ultimate Arctic escape. Enjoy meals served by an open fire before relaxing in your very own riverside cabin.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Lapland Explorer for more information Day 1 Fly to Rovaniemi | Fly to Rovaniemi via Helsinki, meet your local guide and transfer to a riverside house for three nights. After dark follow the natural light provided by the snow reflection, stars and moon on an enchanting snowshoe hike in search of the northern lights. Cross a walking bridge which leads to a river island and admire frozen rapids below. Relax in the wintry atmosphere whilst frying sausages on an open fire before heading back to the Arctic Wilderness Lodge for a heart-warming dinner. (D) Day 2 Snowmobile, Reindeer & Husky Safari | Enjoy breakfast at the lodge before heading out for a day of snow filled fun. Weave between the forest trees on a snowmobile, steer your very own sleigh pulled by reindeer, experience an exhilarating husky safari through the Arctic wilderness before clicking into tandem skis and making the most of

the snowy sliding hills. Spend time exploring Santa Claus Village, a great chance to pick up some Finnish souvenirs and meet Santa Claus himself. (B,D) Day 3 Finnish sauna | Spend the day at leisure. Perhaps explore the Arctic Circle hiking area or learn the art of ice fishing in the frozen rivers, rapids, lakes and ponds just a short drive away. Ask a Regent Lapland Specialist to pre-book optional activities. In the evening relax at the riverside sauna. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re brave enough embrace the Finnish sauna ritual of jumping in the snow. Snack on grilled sausages saunaside and smother yourself in organic body scrub for a special treat. (B,L,D) Day 4 Rovaniemi to UK | Transfer to Rovaniemi airport for the return flight to the UK via Helsinki. (B)

Holiday duration 4 days Holiday type

Tailor-made Guided excursions

Seasonality

Dec-Mar

Prices from

ÂŁ985 per person

Includes flights, transfers, excursions and accommodation. (Based on 4 sharing) These prices are for the Riverside House apartments each with 2 twin rooms. For family prices and other accommodation options contact a Regent Lapland specialist.

Lapland

Beana Laponia

Lapland Boutique Break Tucked away in a remote patch of Lappish wilderness, just a 45-minute drive from Rovaniemi, is Lapland’s first ‘adult only’ hotel, Beana Laponia. Bordering two picturesque Arctic rivers, this intimate hideaway has just 11 bespoke rooms, all elegantly designed. The warm and personable owners have over 250 enthusiastic husky dogs and a range of safaris start from the hotel along picturesque private trails.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Lapland Explorer for more information Day 1 Fly to Rovaniemi |Fly to Lapland’s capital via Helsinki and transfer to Beana Laponia for four nights. Each room is individually designed and comfortably furnished, and guests can benefit from use of an outdoor hot tub for an evening soak under the stars. If the skies are clear, enjoy a snowshoeing trip for an unforgettable introduction into the traditional sport. Stop for hot drinks around a camp fire under the watchful eye of the aurora borealis. (D) Day 2 Reindeer Farm & Husky Safari | Meet some of Lapland’s most famous inhabitants with a morning visit to a nearby reindeer farm, before getting to know the friendly faces at the core of the hotel’s activities on a twohour husky safari. You’ll be taught the art of dog mushing in preparation for the day-long husky exploration of the local environment the following day. (B, L,D)

Day 3 Full-Day Husky Safari | Meet the sled dogs near the hotel, and embark upon a full day husky safari. Spend the day rushing through the frozen landscapes stopping to enjoy lunch around a cosy camp fire. Continue passing trees coated in soft white snow to the soundtrack of the dogs’ excitable panting breath and rhythmic footsteps. (B,L,D) Day 4 Snowmobile Safari | Pick up the pace and dash swiftly across the snow, exploring more of the enchanting Arctic environment from a snowmobile. Later return to the hotel and perhaps make use of the toboggans and kick-sleds available to guests. Finally relax and enjoy a private traditional Finnish sauna. (B,L,D) Day 5 Rovaniemi to UK | Transfer to Rovaniemi for the return flight to the UK, via Helsinki. Morning activities can be arranged depending on your flight schedule. (B)

Holiday duration 5 days Holiday type

Tailor-made Guided excursions

Seasonality

Dec-Mar

Prices from

£1779 per person

Includes flights, transfers, excursions and accommodation. (Based on 4 sharing) All activities mentioned are available, but the itinerary order is subject to change as the number of guests may dictate the daily schedule.

73 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Lapland Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Arctic Snow Hotel glass igloos

Igloos & Auroras Just 26 kilometres from Rovaniemi – Lapland’s winter capital – the Arctic Snow Hotel and its glass-roofed igloos are far enough away from the light pollution of the city to enjoy fabulous displays of the magical aurora borealis. Spend a night in an ice room, newly carved from snow and ice each winter, and spend days exploring the glittering landscape by husky sled or visiting Santa Claus at his official residence.

Itinerary Ask a Regent Lapland Explorer to pre-book optional excursions Day 1 Fly to Rovaniemi | Fly to the capital of Finnish Lapland and transfer to the Arctic Snow Hotel for one night in an ice room. Newly built from snow and ice every winter, each room is carved with a unique design and every ice bed is covered with fur throws and warm, fleece-lined sleeping bags. Sit at ice tables and chairs in the hotel’s restaurant or chill out with a drink in an ice glass before an unforgettable night at this unique Lapland hotel. Day 2 Snow Hotel | Spend the day exploring the Lappish landscape by reindeer sleigh, husky sled or snowmobile – ask a Regent Lapland Specialist about special family safaris on snowmobiles suitable for children. Check in to one of the hotel’s Arctic Glass Igloos for a two-night stay. Located on the shores of Lehtojärvi Lake, these cosy little pods have electrically-heated glass ceilings and their own private showers and toilets. Request

the hotel’s Aurora Alarm and drift off safe in the knowledge that you will be woken if the northern lights appear overhead. (B) Day 3 Snow Hotel | The nearby town of Rovaniemi is the official home of Santa Claus and the man himself can be visited every day of the year at the Santa Claus Village which is located right on the Arctic Circle. Children and big kids alike will delight in a visit to this festive theme park. In the evening, perhaps keep watch for the northern lights from the bubbling waters of the hotel’s outdoor Jacuzzi or retire to your glass igloo to relax under the stars. (B) Day 4 Rovaniemi to UK | Transfer to Rovaniemi Airport for the return flight to the UK. (B)

Tour duration

4 days

Holiday type

Tailor-made Optional excursions

Seasonality

Dec-Mar

Prices from

£1089 per person

Includes flights, accommodation and transfers.

Lapland

Arctic TreeHouse Hotel Opening at Christmas 2016, the brand new Arctic TreeHouse Hotel is the Grand Designs of Lapland holiday accommodation. Each private pod-suite, with its warm wooden interior and exclusive Scandinavian design, includes a glass feature-wall providing unlimited views of the glittering forest and winter skies. Enjoy a thoroughly Lappish experience with included snowmobiling, husky mushing and a sleigh ride through the arctic wilderness with Santa’s reindeer.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Lapland Explorer for more information Day 1 Fly to Rovaniemi | Fly to Lapland’s capital and transfer to the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel. Set into the hillside of the snowy forest, the hotel’s über-cool pod-suites provide unending views of the landscape and northern skies through an elevated glass wall. Each suite features double or twin beds, an en-suite bathroom with shower and toilet, flat-screen TV and espresso coffee machine. Ask a Regent Lapland Explorer about interconnecting family suites. A delicious dinner of continental and local cuisine is served at the hotel’s panoramic restaurant. (D)

Rovaniemi to explore Lapland’s winter capital. After dinner at the hotel restaurant, cosy up in your Arctic TreeHouse suite and watch the night sky for the magical aurora borealis. (B,D)

Day 2 Santa’s Reindeer Farm | Travel deep into the arctic forest to Santa’s reindeer farm. Meet and feed the animals before wrapping up in blankets for a reindeer sleigh ride through the wintry landscape. In the afternoon perhaps catch the Santa Express bus into

Day 4 Snowmobile Safari | Kick-start the day with an adrenaline-pumping snowmobile safari through the Lappish countryside, travelling through crisp white snow and over ice-covered lakes. Transfer to Rovaniemi airport for the return flight to the UK. (B)

Day 3 Husky Safari | Meet Lapland’s lively huskies and learn about the art of mushing. Take the reins and drive your own team of dogs through the arctic wilderness or sit back and enjoy the ride with an experienced musher at the helm. After dinner, perhaps rent skis or snowshoes and explore the pristine white landscapes searching for a silent spot to look out for the northern lights overhead. (B,D)

Tour duration

4 days

Holiday type

Tailor-made Guided excursions

Seasonality

Dec-Mar

Prices from

£1629 per person

Includes flights, transfers, accommodation, meals as specified and excursions.

75 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Lapland Explorer on 020 7666 1291

4 NIGHT CITY BREAK | HHHH

Arctic Light Hotel

CityHotel

Newly opened in 2015, the Arctic Light Hotel in the centre of Rovaniemi offers a luxurious combination of Lappish heritage and contemporary style. Magic Rooms feature a walk-in rain shower, 40” flat-screen television and Nespresso coffee machine. Upgrade to an Arctic Room for a separate cosy lounge and king size bed, or an even larger family-friendly Polar Room with lounge, kitchenette and space for up to three additional beds. The hotel also boasts five unique Aurora Rooms with wonderful sky-view windows designed with aurora viewing in mind.

Modern and stylish, Rovaniemi’s CityHotel is just a short stroll from the shops, bars and restaurants of Lapland’s winter capital. There’s no need to travel far however, as the hotel has its own renowned dining options to choose from. MonteRosa is one of the most popular bistros in town, serving à la carte Nordic cuisine with an international twist. For a more casual evening head to the Bull Bar & Grill, an Americanstyle diner where live music accompanies the ribs and burgers, or to 303 Lounge bar where tales from the snow trails can be enjoyed over a glass of wine.

Breakfast is a very special affair at the Arctic Light Hotel, with a colourful, energising start to the day created by Finnish-American TV chef Sara La Fountain. In the evening, head to the hotel’s Arctic Boulevard restaurant where game from the local forests and fells is a menu highlight.

CityHotel’s Comfort rooms are sleek in design and feature luxurious beds, flat screen televisions and free wi-fi. Upgrade to a larger Lux room and enjoy evenings soaking in the oversized bath, or for a special occasion book a Junior Suite with a separate lounge area and its own private sauna.

A visit to Santa Claus’ official home in Rovaniemi comes highly recommended for children and big kids alike. Meet the man in red, visit the post office where cheerful elves post Father Christmas letters and explore magical Santa Park where Christmas dreams are brought to life. For adventure-seekers, a host of thrilling winter activities can be pre-booked, from snowmobiling and husky sledging to ice fishing and skiing.

Spend days exploring the Lappish wilderness by snowmobile, husky sled or reindeer sleigh, or pay a visit to Santa Claus’s official home, just a 15 minute transfer from the hotel. After a day on the snow, warm up in one of the hotel’s saunas before heading out in search of the northern lights.

Prices from £869

Prices from £679

per person twin-share Price includes flights, transfers and accommodation

4 NIGHT CITY BREAK | HHH

4 NIGHT CITY BREAK | HHHH

Lapland Sky Hotel

Chalet Hotel

The location is the real highlight of the Lapland Sky Hotel. With its hilltop setting next to Ounasvaara ski resort, the hotel offers incredible views over Rovaniemi city and the snowy Kemijoki River valley. At night, head to the rooftop terrace to search the winter skies for the northern lights or dine at the hotel’s famous restaurant where panoramic windows provide endless views of the surrounding snowdraped pines and beyond.

Set on the picturesque banks of Kemijoki River, the Chalet Hotel is just a five minute drive from the centre of Rovaniemi and a few minutes walk from Ounasvaara ski resort. Combining the comfort of hotel-style accommodation with the independence of chalet living, the pretty holiday village comprises 73 stylish apartments and four different restaurants. Enjoy hearty traditional fare by the open fire in the atmospheric Lappish Hut or dine in vibrant Restaurant Thulia, where Arctic Ocean fish is a speciality.

Rooms at the hotel are comfortable and simple, with the choice of bath or shower, and many have their own private sauna. Ask a Regent Lapland Specialist to upgrade to one of the newly refurbished Suites. Extra beds can be added to rooms upon request, or families may prefer one of the nearby holiday apartments, just 200 metres from the hotel, which sleep either four or six guests. Winter activities here are quite literally on the doorstep, with ski lifts right next door to the hotel. Spend days on the piste or pre-book a more traditional journey through the Lappish fells by husky sled or reindeer sleigh. Borrow one of the hotel’s sledges and dash down the snowy mountainside or hire cross-country skis and explore some of the surrounding tracks.

Each individual apartment comes complete with its own lounge, kitchen, sauna and terrace from which to watch the northern lights on clear winter evenings. Standard apartments sleep up to four with a fun attic room for kids above the main bedroom. Superior apartments sleep up to six and Deluxe up to eight, with the added bonus of a private jetty linking the sauna to the river. Explore the Lappish wilderness by snowmobile, husky sled or reindeer sleigh or take to the nearby slopes and spend days skiing or snowboarding. The hotel’s full day Santa Claus Safari excursion is a family favourite, starting with a snowmobile adventure to a reindeer farm followed by a visit to Father Christmas’s official residence.

Prices from £579

Prices from £695

per person twin-share Price includes flights, transfers and accommodation in a twin room with a sauna

per person twin-share Price includes flights, transfers and accommodation

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Lapland Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Norway Welcome to

With a population of just five million inhabiting this vast landscape of fjords and mountains, Norway is the ideal location for a wilderness break. Choose to explore the snowy landscape around Tromsø – Northern Norway’s Arctic capital – or travel to Spitsbergen, the largest island of the Svalbard archipelago, situated midway between continental Norway and the North Pole, for a northern lights expedition unlike any other. New for this winter, discover our short breaks and fly drives in Northern Norway’s Lofoten and Vesterålen islands, where snowy peaks and deep fjords provide a breathtaking backdrop for aurora hunting by night or whale watching by day. Experience Norway this winter with the 2015 British Travel Award winners. Regent Holidays scooped Best Small Holiday Company to Central and Northern Europe at this year’s prestigious awards ceremony.

Norway TRAVEL KNOWHOW Flight time from UK to Northern Norway: Approx. 4 hours (1 change) Time zone: GMT +1 Capital: Oslo Language: Norwegian Currency: Norwegian Krone Population: 5.1 million NORWAY IN NUMBERS

817 18 62 2,000 7 3,000 Miles from Svalbard to the North Pole

National Tourist Routes in Lofoten

Polar nights in Tromsø

Years of Sámi culture

Months a year of northern lights activity

Killer whales in the Norwegian and Barents Sea

For a full range of Norway itineraries, visit our website or speak to a Regent Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Norway The Inside Story For the best chance of catching a display of the magical aurora borealis, head to Northern Norway, the region north of the Arctic Circle, or further north still to the remote Svalbard archipelago just 814 miles from the North Pole. Northern Norway’s Arctic capital, Tromsø, is a great place to start – a winter break in this vibrant city provides countless opportunities to explore the surrounding wilderness by husky sled, snowmobile or reindeer sleigh. It’s also one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights, boasting sightings on over 90% of winter aurora safaris. For intrepid travellers, the remote island of Spitsbergen provides winter adventures of epic proportion, with every snowcat journey feeling like an expedition into the unknown. Travel in December and January to experience the incredible Polar Night when the sun never rises above the horizon and the aurora borealis can be seen day or night. Independent travellers will love the Lofoten islands and neighbouring archipelago of Vesterålen, where steep, snow-covered mountains plunge into icy fjords, and traditional fishing villages paint splashes of red onto nature’s canvas. In the winter months humpback whales and orcas are common sightings on boat safaris, whilst land-based explorers can experience the dramatic scenery on horseback or by snowshoe.

Story to tell Emma Shane Hosiene Brown

Why I love Norway Exploring the stunning Lofoten Archipelago was definitely my personal highlight and I will never forget watching the northern lights dance above the breathtaking mountains. The scenery here is simply out of this world. Rugged peaks plunge into 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 Spaceship Aurora

Moose Safari

Sámi Culture

Every winter holiday in Norway comes with high hopes of an aurora sighting, and a visit to the beautiful Vesterålen islands now also offers a unique way to find out more about this mysterious phenomenon – on a virtual mission into space. Regent recommends heading to the tip of Andøya island where the new Spaceship Aurora education centre provides a brilliant interactive insight into the science and legends behind nature’s light show. Part of the Andøya Space Centre, Spaceship Aurora offers budding astronauts hoping to follow in Tim Peake’s footsteps the opportunity to take part in scientific experiments and launch virtual probes. Ask a Regent Norway Specialist for more information.

The largest land mammal in Europe, the moose (or Elk) found in the forests of Norway stand at around two metres tall, with impressive palmate antlers that earn them the title ‘King of the Forest’. A large population of these solitary giants are found in the Snowman region of Northern Norway, and here it’s possible to embark on a moose safari in search of the magnificent beasts. Wrap up warm, head into the wilderness and keep eyes peeled for wild moose as well as other creatures of the forest including lynxes, foxes and owls. Ask a Regent Norway Specialist about stays at the historic Rundhaug Gjestegård hotel on the banks of the river Målselva from which this moose safari departs.

The Sámi are the northernmost indigenous people of Europe, with a population of around 800,000 across Norway, Sweden, Finland and Russia. In Northern Norway, where almost half the population reside, Sámi culture is enjoying something of a renaissance. Regent recommends a visit to Ingá Sámi Siida, a traditional farm on the Vesterålen island of Hinnøya, where Laila and Arild Inga offer a wonderful insight into their family’s reindeer farming heritage. Visitors can hand-feed tame reindeer before huddling around the cosy fireplace to hear folkloric tales and traditional Joik singing. A visit in winter is by appointment only, so ask a Regent Norway Specialist to include this cultural centre on your Vesterålen holiday.

81 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Norway Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Tromsø

Tromsø Short Break Gateway to the Arctic, Norway’s northernmost hub is a lively, cultural city surrounded by mountains, fjords and islands. Enjoy a four-night break at the Radisson Blu Tromsø and choose from a range of optional excursions in order to explore the surrounding Arctic wonderland. One of the best places in the world to see the northern lights, an evening Aurora Safari is a holiday highlight.

Itinerary Ask a Regent Norway Explorer to pre-book optional excursions Day 1 Fly to Tromsø | Fly to Norway and check in to the Radisson Blu Tromsø for four nights. Offering views of the majestic mountains and the waterfront, the Radisson provides the ideal base for Arctic adventure. After a day of husky sledging or cross-country skiing, retreat to the hotel’s sauna to unwind with views of the Arctic Cathedral and Tromsø fjord. Day 2 Tromsø Aurora Safari | Spend a free day exploring Tromsø. In the evening embark on an Aurora Safari and travel through the Arctic wilderness to basecamp to enjoy a hot meal and campfire. Northern lights sightings here are exceptionally high, with a success rate of 93%. (B,D) Day 3 Tromsø | Make use of free time to take part in optional winter activities. Perhaps spend the morning at a husky farm to learn about how the working dogs are cared for,

then embark on a husky safari and enjoy the thrill of riding through the snow-covered wilderness by sledge. Or opt to travel across the Arctic landscape by snowmobile, stopping to take photographs of the incredible winter scenery. Ask a Regent Norway Specialist about pre-booking optional excursions. (B) Day 4 Tromsø | Spend the final day discovering Tromsø’s natural wonders on an optional excursion. Perhaps marvel at the icy wilderness whilst being pulled through fields by a herd of reindeer or join a whale watching boat tour to search for humpbacks and orcas which come close to the coastline to feed during the winter season. Cross-country skiing excursions are also available for both novice and intermediate skiers. (B) Day 5 Tromsø | Travel to the airport for your flight back to the UK. (B)

Tour duration

5 days

Holiday type

Tailor-made Optional excursions

Seasonality

Nov-Mar

Prices from

£685 per person

Includes flights, accommodation and Aurora Safari.

Norway

Regent Recommends Surrounded by nature, Tromsø is the stepping-off point for unending Arctic adventure. Your Regent Norway Specialist can advise on the full range of optional activities including our four favourites below. Winter is a busy time in Northern Norway and pre-booking is essential to guarantee a place on your chosen activities.

Husky Safari Nov – Mar, daily 4 hours departing at 10am or 6pm Try your hand as a musher and enjoy the ride of a lifetime, dashing through the snow-covered mountains pulled by a team of working huskies. Choose to take in the Arctic sunrise on a morning adventure or chase the northern lights, gliding through remote landscapes as day becomes night. After getting kitted-out in specialist winter gear, your guide will provide a lesson in driving the sled dog team, before quite literally handing you the reins. After a breathtaking winter wonderland journey of around fifteen kilometres, swap tales from the trails back at the kennels over a hot drink and piece of homemade chocolate cake.

Reindeer & Sámi Culture Nov – Mar, daily 4 hours departing at 10am or 6pm The Sámi people of northern Europe have travelled by reindeer sled for many centuries. This half-day cultural encounter with members of a herding family provides an insight into their traditional way of life – visit a Sámi camp and enjoy a very special thirty-minute sled ride through the snow, pulled by one of the family’s working reindeer. Afterwards, join your Sámi guide in a lavvu (traditional tent) to listen to folk tales and joik singing around the campfire with a bowl of hot bidos soup. Choose from a daytime encounter or evening visit – when the magical northern lights may even be seen swirling overhead.

Aurora Basecamp Safari Nov – Mar, daily 5-7 hours departing at 6.30pm More than 200 miles north of the Arctic Circle, the remote mountains and snowy plains surrounding Tromsø are some of the best places on Earth to see the mystical northern lights. Depending on weather conditions, head away from the bright lights of the city by comfortable coach to one of four basecamp locations best suited to catching a display of the ethereal light show. Each aurora basecamp has access to a warm shelter, camp fire and toilet facilities, and experienced guides are on hand to offer photography tips on how to capture the moving ribbons of light – there are even tripods available for those long exposures.

Whale Watching by RIB Oct – Jan, daily 4-5 hours departing at 8.30am In the winter months, the icy waters around Northern Norway play host to some very special visitors including killer whales, humpbacks and pilot whales. For those who like to be at the heart of the action, a whale watching safari by RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) is the best way to get up-close and personal with the giants of the sea. Seating just 10 passengers each, these small vessels provide an unbeatable viewing point at sea level, and often pique the interest of curious cetaceans, proving the closest of encounters. Wrap up warm and make sure your camera battery is fully charged for this incredible wildlife safari.

www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Norway Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Tromsø Winter Panorama

Tromsø & Spitsbergen Combine the highlights of Tromsø with Spitsbergen, the largest island of Norway’s Svalbard archipelago, on this Polar Night adventure. Embark on an amazing northern lights safari, mush a team of huskies under the moonlight and cross the icy winter landscape by snowmobile. Evenings are spent swapping stories of Arctic adventure in the comfort of a Raddison Blu hotel.

Itinerary Contact a Regent Norway Explorer for more information Day 1 Fly to Tromsø | Fly to Norway and check in to the Radisson Blu Tromsø for three nights. Offering views of the majestic mountains and the waterfront, the Radisson provides the ideal base for Arctic adventure. Perhaps enjoy a Mack beer from the world’s northernmost brewery at the hotel’s Rorbua Pub. Day 2 Tromsø Aurora Safari | Spend the day exploring Tromsø at leisure, perhaps visiting the Art Museum of Northern Norway or the Arctic Cathedral. After dark embark on an aurora adventure and head into the wilderness to search for the northern lights with a local guide. Aurora sightings at this remote location are as high as 93%. (B,D) Day 3 Tromsø | Make use of a free day to take part in optional winter activities. Perhaps enjoy a husky safari through the Norwegian wilderness or marvel at the glittering white scenery whilst being pulled across snowy fields on a reindeer sleigh. Ask a Regent Norway Specialist to pre-book optional activities. (B)

Day 4 Fly to Spitsbergen | Fly to Svalbard Airport, transfer to Longyearbyen – the world’s most northerly town – and check in to the Radisson Blu Polar Hotel for four nights. Relax at the end of the day in the hotel’s sauna, enjoy Arctic fare in front of a roaring fire or

head out to search for the northern lights painting ribbons of colour across the night sky. (B) Day 5 Husky Safari | Mushing a team of dogs under the Polar Night is a unique and special experience. Embark on an exhilarating husky sledging adventure beneath the glittering moonlight, travelling across icy plains and past towering mountains. Keep an eye out for the incredible northern lights which can be seen day or night at this magical time of year. (B) Day 6 Polar Night Snowmobile Safari | While the sun is hidden below the horizon, embark on an atmospheric snowmobile journey through the wilderness lit only by the Polar Night. Look out for reindeer and polar foxes who call the snowy landscape home, and watch overhead for the ethereal aurora borealis flickering across the night sky. (B) Day 7 Northern Lights Safari | Take an exciting trip by snowcat and hunt for the aurora in the Spitsbergen wilderness. Drive through the frozen Advent Valley and enjoy incredible views back towards the glittering lights of Longyearbyen. (B) Day 8 Spitsbergen to the UK | Transfer to the airport for the return flight to the UK via Oslo. Ask a Regent Specialist about adding a city break in Norway’s capital. (B)

Tour duration

8 days

Holiday type

Tailor-made Guided excursions

Seasonality

Nov-Jan

Prices from

£1875 per person

Includes flights, Tromsø transfers, accommodation and excursions.

Norway

Polar Night Snowcat Safari

Spitsbergen Polar Nights Located high in the Arctic Ocean, Spitsbergen is the largest island of the Svalbard archipelago in northern Norway. Stay in the world’s most northerly town, Longyearbyen, and experience the incredible period of darkness when the sun remains at more than six degrees below the horizon. In this Polar Night period, aurora appearances are possible not just in the evening, but throughout the day.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Norway Explorer for more information Day 1 Fly to Spitsbergen | Fly to Svalbard Airport, transfer to Longyearbyen and check in to the Radisson Blu Polar Hotel for a fournight stay. Perhaps enjoy some traditional Arctic fare at the hotel’s Restaurant Nansen or grab a snack and drink at Barentz Pub & Spiseri. Day 2 Husky Safari | Embark on a breathtaking dog sledging adventure beneath the starry skies and glittering moonlight. Travel through snow-covered landscapes and icy plains, and enjoy the thrill of being pulled by husky dogs with only the moonlight as a guide. As the mountain ranges come into view, look for the northern lights dancing in the sky above. (B) Day 3 Polar Night Safari | While the sun is hidden beneath the horizon, embark on an atmospheric snowmobile journey through the wilderness, lit only by the Polar Night.

Look out for reindeer and polar foxes as they search for food in the snow, and warm up with hot drinks along the way. Chances of seeing the northern lights are heightened during the Polar Night period, so be sure to keep an eye out for the elusive aurora in the night sky. (B) Day 4 Snowcat Safari | Embark on an exciting trip by snowcat, a fully-tracked, enclosed vehicle designed for tackling the icy conditions. Hunt for the aurora away from the lights of Longyearbyen. Drive through the frozen Advent Valley, making several stops en route to Hiorthhamn, an abandoned settlement on the northern bank of Adventfjord with spectacular views back towards Longyearbyen. (B) Day 5 Fly to the UK | Transfer to the airport for the return flight to the UK. (B)

Tour duration

5 days

Holiday type

Tailor-made Guided excursions

Seasonality

Nov-Apr

Prices from

£1235 per person

Includes flights, accommodation and excursions.

85 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Norway Explorer on 020 7666 1291

View from the Arctic Panorama Lodge

Arctic Panorama Lodge Located at the heart of Northern Norway’s fjords, the remote Arctic Panorama Lodge is a superb boutique retreat, surrounded by mountains reflecting in the Arctic Ocean. On a short break at this island lodge, choose to simply relax in the quiet of the wilderness or to book optional excursions to explore the snow-covered landscape. After dark, watch for the northern lights from the lodge’s panoramic windows.

Itinerary Ask a Regent Norway Explorer to pre-book optional excursions Day 1 Fly to Tromsø | Fly to Tromsø direct from London Gatwick and transfer to the Arctic Panorama Lodge for a three night stay. A remote 4-star retreat, the lodge has six cosy double rooms with en-suite bathrooms, a fully licensed bar and a common room with a roaring fire and large panoramic windows facing the fjord and mountains. Day 2 Uløya Island | Relax in the common room or pre-book optional activities to explore the surrounding wilderness. Perhaps choose an exhilarating three or five hour husky safari. Drive your own team of dogs across the Arctic tundra or sit back in the sled and let an experienced guide take the reins. It is also possible to enjoy this excursion after dark as the magical northern lights dance overhead. (B) Day 3 Uløya Island | Embark on another optional adventure, perhaps choosing to

explore the Arctic landscape by snowmobile. Drive yourself or sit as a passenger with an experienced guide and enjoy incredible views of the Lyngen Alps and surrounding fjords. Alternatively opt for a snowshoe trekking experience and walk to a bivouac for incredible views over the surrounding islands. In the evening perhaps relax with a drink from the bar in front of the panoramic windows and await the northern lights. (B) Day 4 Uløya Island to UK | Spend the final day relaxing in the quiet of the Arctic wilderness or pre-book an optional excursion. Perhaps choose to take a boat trip to the Lyngen Alps. Travel on a 29-foot cabin cruiser with a skipper-guide and admire views of the surrounding mountains bathed in blue light. In the evening transfer to the airport for the direct flight back to London Gatwick. (B)

Tour duration

4 days

Holiday type

Tailor-made Optional excursions

Seasonality

Oct-Apr

Prices from

£740 per person

Includes flights, accommodation and transfers

Norway

Ongajok Mountain Lodge in winter

Ongajok Mountain Lodge Welcome to Finnmark country – the most northerly region of Norway, with a remote landscape characterised by deep fjords and snow-covered plains. Hidden away in the forest, just 28 kilometres from Alta Airport, is the eco-friendly Ongajok Mountain Lodge, where snow hangs on the rooftops of picture-perfect wooden chalets and the day’s exhilarating adventures are rewarded with hearty meals.

Itinerary Ask a Regent Norway Explorer to pre-book optional excursions Day 1 Fly to Alta | Fly from Oslo to Alta and transfer to Ongajok Mountain Lodge. Those who want the full winter wonderland experience can opt to travel the last four kilometres by horse sledge for an unforgettable arrival. In the middle of the Norwegian wilderness, this hidden gem is built in the style of a traditional mountain farm, with just 16 cosy wooden guestrooms. The lodge provides superb meals with fresh ingredients sourced from the surrounding area and there’s a local beer or two to try as well. After dinner, step outside to see if the northern lights are dancing overhead. Day 2 Ice Hotel | For travellers visiting between 15th December and 3rd April, an optional half-day excursion to Norway’s biggest ice hotel comes highly recommended. Enjoy a guided tour of the Sorrisniva Ice Hotel as well as a drink at the ice bar and lunch in the restaurant. In the evening, Guided Northern

Lights Walks and Snowmobile Safaris depart from the lodge at around 9pm, conditions depending. Ask a Regent Norway Specialist to pre-book optional excursions. (B) Day 3 Ongajok | The snow-covered plains surrounding the lodge make for the perfect winter playground. Become a musher for the day and head off on a thrilling dog sled adventure, or journey deep into the remote Arctic highlands on an incredible Snowmobile Safari, speeding through the endless plains surrounded by deep valleys and towering mountains. Ask a Regent Norway Specialist for the full range of optional activities. Wrap up warm for a final evening in search of the northern lights. (B) Day 4 Ongajok to UK | Transfer back to Alta and fly back to Oslo for the return flight to the UK. (B)

Tour duration

4 days

Holiday type

Tailor-made Optional excursions

Seasonality

Oct-Apr

Prices from

£619 per person

Includes flights, accommodation and transfers

87 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Norway Explorer on 020 7666 1291

View from Ringstad terrace

Images of Vesterålen The mountains and fjords of the Vesterålen archipelago in Northern Norway are a nature lovers’ paradise; by day white-tailed eagles and seals compete for herring in the frozen waters and by night the northern lights swirl over towering snow-capped peaks and islets. On this tour designed with photography in mind, join guesthouse host and nature photographer Ian on a wildlife discovery on the edge of the Atlantic.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Norway Explorer for more information

Day 1 Fly to Evenes | Fly to Harstad/Narvik Airport via Oslo. Transfer to Ringstad and check in to the House on the Seaward Side – a warm and welcoming traditional wooden guesthouse on the edge of the fjord, surrounded by islets and mountains. After dinner, meet the photographer for tips and hints on capturing the aurora before heading out on a northern lights hunt. (D)

Day 3 Snowshoe Panorama | Before sunrise is the best time to search for Norway’s elusive moose. Join the photographer and guide on an early morning safari to search for the giant beasts before donning snowshoes for a trek to Vetten. Here, snow-covered panoramas from the top of the mountain are picture-perfect. After dinner, await the northern lights around an open fire. (B,L,D)

Day 2 Eagle Boat Safari | Enjoy a nature photography workshop, learning skills to capture wildlife and landscapes in the arctic light, before joining the photographer in search of white-tailed eagles. Travel by boat through the fjords to an area where the giant birds swoop for herring in the icy waters. Whales, seals and sea otters are also regularly sighted. Venture out after dinner for another attempt to capture the flickering ribbons of the northern lights. (B,L,D)

Day 4 Vesterålen | Join a local guide on a half-day minibus tour of the archipelago, learning about life in this isolated part of Northern Norway. The sightseeing tour is specially designed to visit top viewpoints and photogenic locations. (B,L,D) Day 5 Ringstad to UK | Transfer back to Harstad/Narvik Airport for the flight to Oslo, and onwards to the UK. (B)

Tour duration

5 days

Holiday type

Group tour Guided excursions

Seasonality

Sundays Nov-Mar

Prices from

£1299 per person

Includes flights, transfers, accommodation, meals and excursions.

Norway

Killer whale in Andenes, Andøya Island

Vesterålen Aurora & Whales Just north of the Arctic Circle, Northern Norway’s westerly archipelago of Vesterålen reaches out into the Atlantic Ocean in a string of islets and skerries characterised by craggy mountains, colourful fishing villages and dramatic fjords. Discover its northernmost island Andøya, whale watching capital, where the proximity of the continental shelf brings hungry humpbacks into the freezing waters.

Itinerary Speak to a Regent Norway Explorer for more information Day 1 Fly to Andøya | Fly to Tromsø in Northern Norway and take a short internal flight to Andøya airport on the Vesterålen archipelago. Transfer to Marmelkroken apartments in the village of Bø, a lovely converted farm with an incredible mountainous backdrop and stunning seaward views. After a farm-cooked dinner, get some valuable tuition in northern lights photography before heading out in search of the aurora in the remote surrounds. (D) Day 2 Whale Watching | Travel to Andenes on the northern tip of Andøya island, a wonderful scenic journey along one of the archipelago’s many National Tourist Routes. Head out on a winter whale watching safari, where humpbacks, fin whales, sperm whales and killer whales are all possible sightings in the North Atlantic waters. After lunch visit Spaceship Aurora – a brand new educational and activity centre linked to Andøya Space

Centre. Take a virtual mission into space and learn more about the science behind the northern lights. Enjoy dinner back at Marmelkroken before another opportunity to search for the aurora. (B,L,D) Day 3 Andøya | Head into the great outdoors and discover the dramatic scenery for which this mountainous archipelago is best known, with an outdoor campfire lunch surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Back at Marmelkroken, warm up with a traditional sauna before dinner at Nordtun Gård, a local farm shop and café best known for its delicious cheeses. After dark, search the skies on a final northern lights hunt, surrounded by mountains and icy fjords. (B,L,D) Day 4 Andøya to UK | Travel to nearby Dverberg for lunch at Alveland café, a traditional craft centre renowned for its handmade soaps. Transfer to Andøya airport for an afternoon flight to Tromsø, and onwards to the UK. (B)

Tour duration

4 days

Holiday type

Group Tour Included excursions

Seasonality

Nov-Mar

Prices from

£1325 per person

Includes flights, transfers, accommodation, meals and excursions.

89 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Norway Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Svolvær, Lofoten

Vistas of Vesterålen & Lofoten On the stunning Norwegian archipelagos of Vesterålen and Lofoten the journey is as beautiful as the destination. Take to the National Tourist Routes on this week-long winter fly-drive, travelling scenic stretches of road that skirt craggy coastlines, where sea eagles soar over deep fjords and snow-covered mountains keep watch over colourful fishing villages. After dark, the islands’ splendid isolation means exceptional aurora hunting.

Tour duration

7 days

Holiday type

Fly-Drive

Seasonality

Oct-Apr

Prices from

£1095 per person

Includes flights, accommodation, whale watching excursion and car hire (VW Polo or similar) Upgrade to a Hyundai IX35 from £119pp

Suggested itinerary Ask a Regent Norway Explorer to tailor-make this itinerary Day 1 Fly to Oslo | Fly to Oslo and take a short internal flight to Harstad/Narvik Airport in Evenes. Collect the hire car and start the journey through Norway’s incredible scenery. Cross the Tjeldsund suspension bridge and continue along the water’s edge to Vesterålen’s northernmost island, Andøya. Arrive in the town of Andenes for a threenight stay. (215km)

see whales, seals and sea eagles. Consider swapping the car for a more traditional method of transport, booking a husky safari and mushing your own team of dogs through the arctic landscape. In the evening, perhaps choose to drive beyond the city limits to a quiet coastal spot in search of the northern lights. (B)

Day 2 Andenes | Teetering on the edge of the North Atlantic, Andenes is Northern Norway’s whale watching capital. From January to March, whale watching boat tours head out into the icy waters in search of humpbacks, fin whales and orcas. The island of Andøya is also home to Norway’s Space Centre, and Regent recommends a visit to its brand new interactive visitor centre, Spaceship Aurora, just a ten-minute coastal drive from the hotel. (B)

Day 4 Andenes to Lofoten Islands | Depart Vesterålen for the Lofoten Islands. Regent recommends making a stop at Bleik, a traditional fishing village framed by a long white beach and dramatic craggy mountains. Continue the scenic journey to Melbu for the ferry to Fiskebøl on the Lofoten Islands, and onwards to Lofoten’s main city of Svolvær, base for the next three days. Explore the vibrant harbour area with its cafes, restaurants, shops and galleries overlooked by snow-capped mountains. (B) (185km)

Day 3 Andenes | Spend time driving Andøya’s scenic National Tourist Route, exploring the coastal road from which it’s possible to

Day 5 Svolvær | Take to the roads to explore the beautiful scenery of the Lofoten archipelago at your own pace. Drive along the

rugged coastline, travelling over bridges that dissect deep fjords, skirting around jagged, snow-covered mountains. Perhaps aim for Lofoton’s furthest village, a place simply called Å, 130 kilometres from Svolvær at the very edge of the peninsular. In the evening, consider joining a northern lights photography tour and head out in search of the natural phenomenon with an experienced photographic tutor. (B) Day 6 Svolvær | Perhaps base yourself in Lofoten’s capital, booking optional excursions to discover the dramatic Norwegian scenery from a new viewpoint. Seabird RIB boat tours depart on Wednesdays and Saturdays, cruising through the spectacular fjords in search of swooping sea eagles and majestic killer whales. Day 7 Svolvær to UK | Depart the Lofoten Islands and drive back to Harstad/Narvik Airport in Evenes for the return flight to the UK via Oslo. (B) (165km)

Norway

Reine, Lofoten

Scenic Lofoten On this archipelago of jaw-dropping natural beauty, every stretch of Lofoten’s scenic highway provides a new vista of jagged mountain or tranquil fjord. Explore at your own pace on this winter fly-drive holiday, staying in pretty fishing villages where the scenery can be enjoyed on land or by boat. As twilight fades, head out in search of the magical northern lights against a backdrop of dramatic peaks.

Tour duration

6 days

Holiday type

Fly-Drive

Seasonality

Oct-Apr

Prices from

£1280 per person

Includes flights, accommodation and car hire Upgrade to a Hyundai IX35 from £117pp

Suggested itinerary Ask a Regent Norway Explorer to tailor-make this itinerary Day 1 Fly to Bodø | Fly to Norway’s capital and take an internal flight to Bodo and on to Svolvær in the Lofoten Islands. Collect the hire car and check in to the hotel for two nights. Located across a beautiful succession of skerries, this lively port town is Lofoten’s main hub. Wander down to the vibrant harbour area and perhaps choose to have dinner in one of the restaurants with views towards snowcovered Svolværgeita Mountain. Day 2 Svolvær | Explore the city, perhaps taking in the Lofotr Viking Museum or visiting some of the galleries showcasing works by artists who flock to the area. For active travellers, consider a snowshoe expedition, heading into the silence of the backcountry and trekking past valleys, lakes and ridges to magnificent viewpoints where dramatic scenery unfolds. At 9pm join a northern lights excursion, travelling deep into the countryside, away from the bright lights of Svolvær, to search for the mystical aurora in

the clear night sky. (B) Day 3 Svolvær to Henningsvær | Drive a short distance to Henningsvær, a stunning collection of tiny islands off the southern coast of Austvågøya, and check in to the hotel for one night. Join an RIB boat tour and discover the dramatic beauty of Trollfjord, a narrow channel between the Lofoten Islands and Vesterålen archipelago, flanked by towering mountains. In the winter months, circling sea eagles and graceful orcas are common sightings. After dark, this isolated location on the very edge of the archipelago is the ideal spot to head out in search of the northern lights. (B) (25km) Day 4 Henningsvær to Reine | Continue the journey along scenic route E10 towards the westernmost tip of Lofoten. Enjoy a slow pace of travel, stopping to explore the dramatic scenery as the road weaves from north to south across the narrow islands, taking in coast, mountains, lakes and islets. Check in

to the hotel in Reine, a stunning fishing village where traditional red wooden houses cling to the edge of natural harbours, framed by jagged, rocky peaks. After dark, head out to search for the swirling northern lights against the stunning backdrop. (B) (115km) Day 5 Reine | Perhaps consider booking a winter horse riding expedition, cantering along spectacular ridges past ancient remnants from the Viking Age. Or head back out on the road on a day drip to Nusfjord (40km), the bestpreserved fishing village in Lofoten, with its historic 19th century buildings and harbour. The region is famed for its plentiful cod, and winter sea angling tours here provide ample opportunities to catch cod as well as halibut, pollock and haddock. Back in Reine, spend the final night in Lofoten searching the northern skies for the ethereal aurora borealis. (B) Day 6 Reine to UK | Drive back to Svolvær for the flight back to Bodø and onwards to the UK. (B) (120km)

91 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Norway Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Specialists in the Alternative for over 40 years Our Brochure Collection

Iceland & the Islands Summer

Alternative Asia

ICELAND | GREENLAND

CENTRAL ASIA | MONGOLIA

FAROE ISLANDS

CHINA | TAIWAN | BHUTAN

LAPLAND | FINLAND

NORTH KOREA | SOUTH KOREA

NORWAY | ARCTIC VOYAGES

BURMA | INDOCHINA

AZORES

BORNEO | INDONESIA PAPUA NEW GUINEA

Take to the open road and explore Iceland’s black sand beaches, dramatic waterfalls and imposing glaciers as well as discovering breathtaking crater lakes in the Azores and the beautiful fjords in Norway. Witness the magnificent midnight, drift off to sleep in a lighthouse in Finland, or embark on an unforgettable Arctic cruise around Spitsbergen in search of polar bears and narwhals.

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 | ROMANIA | RUSSIA | 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.

93 www.regentholidays.co.uk | Talk to a Regent Explorer on 020 7666 1291

Drive icelanD with avis Wide selection of cars Friendly and experienced staff Key locations throughout the country Environmental awareness We care for your safety the powerful suzuki Grand vitara is the ideal sUv for tackling icelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rugged terrain. contact your regent iceland specialist for our full range of 2wD and 4wD vehicles.

ITC Luxury Travel Group Limited THE COLLECTION

Pioneers of responsible travel, Rainbow Tours specialises in tailor-made holidays to Africa, Madagascar and Latin America, taking you to world famous sights as well as hidden corners right at the heart of local cultures. Their well-travelled team arranges safaris, custom-made trips for couples, family holidays, honeymoons and expert-led groups, as well as relaxing beach breaks.

Western & Orientalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s passion is tailor-made travel and personalised service. Their worldwide collection encompasses beach escapes, family holidays, multicentres, experiences and honeymoons. So whether it is the Caribbean & the USA, Far East, India & Sri Lanka, Indian Ocean & Middle East or the Mediterranean, their expert Travel Specialists can tailor the perfect holiday for you.

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A pioneer in luxury travel, ITC has spent over 40 years creating bespoke holidays of a lifetime for our valued clients. As one of the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s longest-established independent, luxury tour operators we offer a genuine passion for travel, extraordinary local knowledge, a pedantic approach to fine details and an inspired workforce who sincerely love what they do.

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Founded in 1983, Villa Select is known for its unique and discerning selection of carefully hand-picked villas across Europe, the Caribbean and Thailand. From traditional, rustic countryside retreats to contemporary, centrally-located luxury villas, Villa Select provides a friendly and professional service from the moment you book right through to the service you receive in resort.

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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. BROCHURE 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 £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 © ITC Luxury Travel Limited All rights reserved. Date of issue January 2016

ICELANDAIR

ENJOY THE JOURNEY AS MUCH AS THE DESTINATION

ReykjavĂk I Anchorage I Boston I Chicago I Denver I Minneapolis/St. Paul I New York (JFK & Newark) Orlando I Portland I Seattle I Washington D.C. I Edmonton I Halifax I Montreal I Toronto I Vancouver Icelandair serves the UK with direct flights to Iceland from six gateways: London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow and Aberdeen all provide easy onwards connections to 16 North American destinations. When you fly with Icelandair, you will enjoy our unique brand of Icelandic hospitality and comfort. Our on-board experience features special touches, from the latest Icelandic music to cosy leather seating with interactive in-flight entertainment systems designed to make the short flight to Iceland fly by. All Icelandair passengers enjoy generous legroom and complimentary baggage allowances. We look forward to welcoming you on board.

ARCTIC CIRCLE

LOG CABINS

ICELAND ROMANTIC BREAKS

GEYSER

VOLCANO SNOWMOBILING ICE FISHING

GLASS IGLOOS

BLUE LAGOON

REYKJAVÍK

HUSKY SLEDGING

ADVENTURE WATERFALLS WINTER

GREENLAND

AURORA BOREALIS

MOOSE SAFARI LOFOTEN ISLANDS

Colston Tower, Colston Street, Bristol BS1 4XE Telephone: 020 7666 1291 Email: regent@regentholidays.co.uk www.regentholidays.co.uk Regent Holidays is part of ITC Luxury Travel Group Limited

FLY-DRIVE

LAPLAND

ORCA

LAPLAND ICE HOTELS

GOLDEN CIRCLE

REINDEER

NORWAY VESTERÅLEN SANTA CLAUS

FJORD

GROUP TOUR

ADVENTURE INUIT

GLACIER

TROMSØ

SAUNA

NORTHERN LIGHTS

SUPERJEEP

WHALE WATCHING

WILDERNESS

ICEBERG