Group Leisure & Travel – May 2019

Where to Stay

Grand Hotel Reykjavik: This environmentally-friendly

four star hotel offers great views across the city as well

as free shuttle services to the city centre and entry to

the Botanic Gardens.

http://www.grand-hotel-reykjavik.h-rzn.com

Hotel Viking: Located on The Viking Village, one of

the most visited tourist attractions in Iceland, this

hotel offers 42 rooms and a geothermal hot tub to

relax after a busy day of sightseeing.

http://www.fjorukrain.is

Fisherman’s Village: If you’re looking for somewhere

more remote, and with a great chance of spotting the

Northern Lights, there are a number of cottage-style

rooms available here, on the Álftanes peninsula.

http://www.fishermansvillage.is

When to Go

February, March, September

and October are ideal for

northern lights hunting. But

the summer months are

equally as stunning. There’s

something different year-

round in Iceland.

Reykjavik

The world’s northernmost capital sees just four hours of
sunlight every day in winter and 22 hours or more in summer

• and whatever time of year, there’s plenty to explore.

Start with a visit to Hallgrimskirkja church which dominates
the skyline. Its white granite structure is said to be
inspired by the basalt lava columns that line the
country’s coastline. Named after Reverend
Hallgrimur Petursson, author of Iceland’s
most popular hymn book, the church

stands at 73 metres high. For a small fee you’re whisked

to the top of the tower for staggering views of the

colourful roofs of the city against the backdrop of nearby

snow-capped mountains.

A walk along the sea front takes you to a popular

selfie spot on the island (Blue Lagoon is the other)

• the gleaming steel Sun Voyager structure that
  resembles a Viking long-ship. You’ll also want
  to stop at the Harpa Concert Hall. Groups
  of 15 or more can opt for a private ‘behind
  the scenes’ guided tour of the architectural
  masterpiece, accessing areas usually only
  open to performers.

From the city there are a host of Northern

Lights trips for groups too, many of which offer a

free return if you don’t see them on the first trip.

Land of Fire & Ice

With a stark contrast in landscape, temperatures and

sunlight, Iceland is full of surprises. Possibly what it’s

most famous for is the striking blue waters of the Blue

Lagoon, just 10 minutes from Keflavik International

Airport and half an hour from Reykjavik.

Or if you’re looking for a more unique experience,

check out the Secret Lagoon (or not so now) – located

in the Golden Circle. It aims to offer a more natural and

true Icelandic feeling and during winter you may even

be treated to a great lightshow as you enjoy the lovely

warm water – and a drink from the bar.

• Above: Hallgrimskirkja church.
  Below: You can walk behind the Seljalandsfoss waterfall.

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Explore: Iceland