Fly and Drive Winter West Noord IJsland

About the destination: Keflavík (About this soundlisten), meaning Driftwood Bay) is a town in the Reykjanes region in southwest Iceland. It is included in the municipality of Reykjanesbær. In 1995, Keflavik merged with nearby Njarðvík and Hafnir to form the municipality of Reykjanesbær. The former NATO military base Naval Air Station Keflavik is used as a setting for an important story line in Tom Clancy's novel Red Storm Rising. Clancy speculated about the base, the geography, local flora, and the station equipment.

About the destination: Reykjavik is not your typical capital city, it has no magnificent buildings, or a historic city centre or grand monuments, this city is much more than that. Iceland’s capital is different, full of life and very close to nature. Its location, at the fringe of the Atlantic Ocean, between two fjords and surrounded by a lunar volcanic framework, makes the city, which name literally means Bay of Smokes, incomparably special. The world’s northernmost capital is the perfect place for outdoor and wildlife lovers. Surrounded by sea, whale watching is one of the most popular touristic activities. The city has plenty of open spaces: parks, pedestrian areas, a lake situated next to the city hall and Nauthólsvik geothermal beach just 15 min away from the city centre. Throughout the city there are 7 municipal geothermal pools where locals go to socialize and relax after work. Other activities like cycling, hiking, horse riding, sailing and fishing can all be enjoyed on the doorsteps of the capital. Aside from all its natural wonders, Reykjavik has always something to offer. It is a cosmopolitan and dynamic city full of museums, art galleries and cosy coffee shops. Its nightlife is exciting and outrageous, during a night out, it seems locals are making up for the prohibition on beer that was in force till 1989 and nightspots tend to stay open until the early hours of the morning. During the day, the capital is a much more relaxed place, with its trim colourful houses, rubbish-free streets and an easygoing pace of life. Reykjavik is considered the one of the cleanest, greenest and safest cities in the world. Getting lost in this city is almost impossible: Hallgrímskirkja church and Öskjuhlíð hill are visible from most places in the city centre and are essential landmarks for orientation. Reykjavik is dynamic, creative, modern, cosy and very special. Its peculiar personality and magnetic surroundings will make you agree that there’s no better city in the world.

About the destination: Arnarstapi is a village on the southern side of the Snæfellsnes peninsula. The area has several old and charming houses with interesting stories to them and is renowned for its beautiful nature. The beach at Arnarstapi holds a particular attraction. It has an eroded circular stone arch, called Gatklettur, and here, the interplay of spectacular waves and the light of the sun create a fascinating spectacle. Large colonies of the arctic tern also nest in the area, and both these features make it very popular amongst photographers. An old horse trail through the lava field Hellnahraun is highly popular for hiking, due to the impressiveness of the surrounding landscape.

About the destination: Ólafsvík is a town on the northern side of Snaefellsnes peninsula, close to the magnificent glacier, Snaefellsjokull. It has a large fishing harbour which is ideal for watching the lively seamans life. An old warehouse, built in 1844, is now protected and houses a museum, with exhibits displaying working methods from ancient times. At the end of Baejargil gorge is the beautiful Baejarfoss waterfall. Snaefellsjokull National Park with its amazing nature is in the vicinity.

About the destination: Reykholt is a village in the valley of the river Reykjadalsá, called Reykholtsdalur. It is part of Borgarfjörður, Western Region. Today, the village has 60 inhabitants, a school centre and a library concentrating on the works of Snorri Sturluson. A statue of Snorri by Gustav Vigeland can be found here. Archeologists are still working here and finding medieval remains. In the vicinity, Japanese scientists are doing research on the aurora borealis (the northern lights).

About the destination: Welcome to Blönduós, Iceland, a charming town nestled on the banks of the Blanda River in the northwestern region of the country. Known for its serene landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Blönduós offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Icelandic experience. Start your journey by exploring the Blönduós Church, an architectural marvel with its distinctive design inspired by the shapes of the nearby mountains and glaciers. The church's striking appearance is complemented by its location, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Inside, you'll find a serene atmosphere perfect for reflection and a chance to learn about the local community's history and traditions. Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in Blönduós. The town is ideally situated for outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and fishing. The Blanda River, renowned for its salmon fishing, attracts anglers from around the world. For a more leisurely experience, take a stroll along the riverbanks or visit the Hrútey Island, a protected nature reserve in the middle of the river, which is a haven for birdlife and offers peaceful walking paths. No visit to Blönduós would be complete without immersing yourself in the local culture. The Textile Museum is a highlight, showcasing traditional Icelandic crafts and textile art. Here, you can delve into the history of Icelandic wool and the intricate artistry of handwoven textiles. After a day of exploration, unwind at one of the local eateries, where you can savor Icelandic delicacies and fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Whether you're drawn by the natural wonders or the cultural treasures, Blönduós promises a memorable and enriching experience.

About the destination: Akureyri is a town in northern Iceland. It is Iceland's second largest urban area and fourth largest municipality. Nicknamed the Capital of North Iceland, Akureyri is an important port and fishing centre. Akureyri is a very picturesque town with its location by a scenic fjord, eclectic building styles and streets winding their way through gorges. Spend some time walking around the town centre, see the impressive church and Listagilið (literally ""the art canyon""), home to a number of arts and crafts galleries and shops. The tranquil municipal botanical garden, Lystigarðurinn, is worth visiting, as are the several small museums dotted around town.

About the destination: Mývatn, located in northern Iceland, is a stunning region renowned for its unique volcanic landscapes, geothermal activity, and abundant birdlife. The area is named after Lake Mývatn, a serene body of water surrounded by dramatic lava fields, hot springs, and craters. Visitors can explore the surreal landscapes of Dimmuborgir, known as the "Dark Castles," with its unusual lava formations, or relax in the soothing geothermal waters of the Mývatn Nature Baths. The region is also a birdwatcher's paradise, hosting numerous species, especially during the summer months. With its otherworldly scenery and diverse natural attractions, Mývatn offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

About the destination: Most visitors to Iceland only trek the Reykjanes Peninsula to land / take off from Keflavik airport or to bathe in the Blue Lagoon. But the Reykjanes Peninsula has a lot to offer the tourist: Separating Continents, Geothermal Energy Plants, Lighthouses, Natural Reserves of Gannets and geothermal areas are some of the wonders that this peninsula hides. Here you can visit the Reykjanes Peninsula: Keflavik, Eldey, Gunnuhver, Faro, geothermal power plant and Bridge between two continents. After an initial visit to some of the wonders of the Reykjanes Peninsula as the Bridge between two continents, the geothermal power plant or Gunnuhver; There are still many other sites created by nature with which to delight in crossing the infinite lava fields on the Reykjanes peninsula. Geothermal zones, cliffs full of puffins, colorful lakes, mountains with pyramidal shapes, open-air spas and fish dryers await travelers who want to spend time on this peculiar peninsula. We will pass on our visit to the largest lake of the Reykjanes peninsula called Kleifarvatn, the geothermal zone of Krysuvik (Seltun), the colorful lake of Graenavatn and the world-famous Blue Lagoon.