Incredible Iceland: Escape The Ordinary With A Trip To This Spectacularly Scenic Nordic Nation

Iceland was never a place I considered visiting – it simply wasn't on my radar. I usually don’t holiday anywhere that doesn’t promise non-stop sun and sightseeing. And as a country that spends a good portion of the year under the cover of darkness and boasts a VERY quiet lifestyle, the volcanic-laden destination didn’t particularly appeal. But I gave it a shot with Icelandair's Incredible Stopover and am most definitely glad I did.

Offering up a winning combination of seriously stunning scenery, the Northern Lights and countless wow-factor places to Instagram, it won me over almost instantly. Plus, it’s only a short three-hour flight from London.

Miles Of Opportunities  
Unassuming is the word you might use to describe Iceland. Sparse, wild and quietly spectacular it makes no promises about the weather (you may encounter a blizzard in one area and clear blue skies 20 minutes down the road) and is bursting with varying landscapes and unrivaled views. There’s a reason why film and TV hits such as ‘Game of Thrones’ and ‘Thor’ were filmed there.

Visit during the summer months and you may spot some puffins that, prepare yourself, are also a delicacy and all year round you'll be able to spot the hardy Icelandic horses roaming around. Ride one at Skálakot, but remember your thermal gloves – your fingers will FREEZE while gripping onto the reigns without them.

If you’ve got a bit of cash to splash, a tour of Reykjavik with Norðurflug Helicopter Tours is a must. Only from the air will truly grasp how remarkable – and sparse – the country’s landscape is.

Whale watching is also an option, but don't have a melt down if don't see one of these remarkable creatures – they don’t always put in an appearance. You may see it on your dinner menu though, as it’s another delicacy.

Pretty much everyone speaks English, so you don't need to worry about learning the (ridiculously hard to pronounce) language. But it’s worth investing in a guide; the roads can be hard to navigate and while the Blue Lagoon, National Park, black beach and other touristy stop-offs are widely known, it's the hidden waterfalls, steaming volcanoes and tucked away caves, which only the locals know about, that will make your trip.

Make time in your schedule for an afternoon of utter relaxation at Laugarvatn Fontana Spa.

Perched on the edge of a lake (which you can swim in) with breathtaking views of snow-topped mountains to soak up, you can take bathe in any of the four natural hot spring pools or chill out the saunas. It beats a hotel spa any day.

What To Eat
The cuisine, although not raved about globally, is similar to the country and its people – simple, substantial and something to savour.

As a vegetarian in a country that prides itself on its seafood, I was thrilled to find that my options weren’t limited to salad.

I happily tucked into deep friend vegetables, hearty soups and plenty of liquorice (which seems to be the nation’s sweet treat of choice) while my fellow travellers indulged in fresh fish, tender meats and, yes, puffin. Which, I’m assured, is delicious.

Plan Your Trip
From September 1st to November 1st 2015, you can book the Incredible Stopover Experience that Icelandair is offering. The airline’s Stopover service offers transatlantic passengers the option to stay in Iceland for up to seven nights at no additional airfare.

Opt for The Full Package and as well as experiencing a helicopter ride over Reykjavik, you’ll be taken on a private guided tour across the south of the island. You'll explore Gljúfrabúi, Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, go for a hike on Sólheimajökull glacier or horse riding at Skálakot, take a trip to the black beach at Reynisfjara and visit Fontana Spa.

You’ll stay for one night at Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik Marina and one night in the luxury Dyrhólaey lighthouse.

The over-a-century old lighthouse is the only active lighthouse where visitors can stay, and has been transformed into a cosy retreat with some seriously good views. Perfect for getting away from it all.

Prices for the whole experience start from £2,284 per person for a group of four people. A ‘lighter’ package is also available. Booking, bespoke packages and further details on the Incredible Stopover are available from Icelandair.co.uk/Stopover.

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