Ring Of Fire

Reykjavík and its neighbors. You’ll circle the mountain’s flanks, where fumaroles dot the landscape, and stop in at Hellisheidi Geothermal Plant Visitor Center to learn more about the green technology being used to harness the volcano’s energy in new ways. In nearby Hveragerdi, a town built directly atop a magma chamber, you’ll drive by naturally heated greenhouses and stroll out to one of the hot springs that bubble and hiss all around this steamy community. You will also enjoy a brunch buffet at Brú Hotel. At UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park you’ll encounter a dramatic rift valley where Iceland’s parliament was founded over 1,000 years ago. A drive along Iceland’s largest lake at Thingvallavatn leads to a breathtakingly scenic viewpoint, and the return drive to the pier traverses a lunar landscape brimming with volcanic phenomena and other geological wonders.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Journey through the dramatic landscape surrounding 2,600-foot Hengill Volcano.
• See enough fumaroles, steam vents, hot springs and other geothermal features.
• Visit a geothermal plant and learn about modern technology used to harness this ancient power.
• Tour a town where the greenhouses are naturally steam-heated and stroll through its bubbling terrain.
• Drive through a UNESCO-listed rift valley and visit a spectacular viewpoint on the flanks of the volcano.
• Visit Kerið Lake located in the Grímsnes volcanic area.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear warm, weather-appropriate clothing. Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen as needed.