Akureyri Aurora Escape

On arrival in Akureyri, Iceland’s ‘Capital of the North’, a shuttle transfer will bring you from the airport to your stylish, boutique hotel in the town centre – a journey of just five minutes. Set just back from Eyjafjörður (Iceland’s longest fjord) on historic Hafnarstræti, Skáld Hotel is perfectly positioned for exploring the wonders of North Iceland. North and south-facing rooftop terraces offer superb views of the surrounding mountain and fjord landscapes, while the restaurant specialises in contemporary Nordic cuisine showcasing seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.

This evening, you’ll venture out into the nearby countryside on a guided Northern Lights photography tour, bringing you to a prime viewing location far removed from artificial light pollution. At 65.7°N, just 100 kilometres shy of the Arctic Circle, this is one of the best areas in Iceland to go hunting the Northern Lights. You’ll need a slice of good fortune regarding cloud cover, as clear or partially clear skies are needed in order to see the Northern Lights. Should the aurora make an appearance, you’ll be given expert tips on how to capture this majestic spectacle on camera.

Please note that based on the latest weather conditions, this tour might be moved to another night to offer the best chances of seeing the Northern Lights. 

After a hearty breakfast this morning, you’ll be brought to a traditional Icelandic horse farm, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet these beautiful animals and learn all about their history and the people who care for them. Then, you’ll set off on a one-hour horseback riding adventure through the countryside – a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the natural splendour of the region. Afterwards, there will also be time to visit the farm’s sheep and gain a further insight into the pastoral way of life in this rural part of North Iceland.

Later on, it’s time for another quintessential Icelandic experience as you visit one of the country’s finest geothermal lagoons: the Forest Lagoon. Tucked away among pine and birch trees on a hillside overlooking the Eyjafjörður fjord, the Forest Lagoon features a main infinity-edge pool heated to 37°C, as well as a smaller pool at 40°C, a cold plunge pool and a Finnish dry sauna. There are several swim-up bars, too, so you can enjoy a drink or two while you bathe in the warm, mineral-rich waters. Depending on when you visit, you might even be fortunate enough to spot the Northern Lights swirling above while you soak in the Forest Lagoon. It’s also possible to dine at the Forest Bistro if you wish, or you might prefer to head back to Akureyri for a greater choice of restaurants.

Please note: it’s also possible to move your visit to the Forest Lagoon to the following day, if you prefer.

This morning, you’ll head east from Akureyri to explore the otherworldly landscapes around Lake Mývatn, which forms part of the Diamond Circle – a driving route linking several of North Iceland’s most iconic landmarks. First, you’ll make a stop at the spectacular Goðafoss waterfall before continuing on to the main Lake Mývatn area. Over the course of several hours, you’ll explore the Skútustadagrig pseudo-craters, the eerie rock formations of the Dimmuborgir lava field, the Grjótagjá lava cave (which was used as a filming location in Game of Thrones), and the Námafjall Geothermal Area, where rust-coloured, lunar-like plains are pierced by belching mudpots and hissing fumaroles. All in all, it’s a terrific introduction to the region’s wild and rugged volcanic wonders.

This evening, back in Akureyri, why not round off your trip by booking a table at one of the town’s excellent local restaurants? North Restaurant, which offers an innovative tasting menu based on seasonal Icelandic produce, comes highly recommended. 

Enjoy one last breakfast at your hotel this morning before a transfer brings you back to Akureyri Airport in time for your flight home.