WHALES AND PUFFINS

FROM Reykjavík, view a world-famous geyser, roaring waterfalls, glooping mudpots and tectonic plates on an optional tour of the Golden Circle. Alternatively, see the city’s iconic cathedral and visit the site of an ancient outdoor Parliament, go whale-watching, or bathe in the Sky Blue Lagoon.

■ ÍSAFJÖRDUR brings waterfalls, old fishing villages featuring colourful Norwegian-style houses — and calm waters perfect for kayaking amid the untouched landscape. Look out for puffins (far right) and white-tailed eagles.

■ AKUREYRI, 60 miles south of the Arctic Circle, is a gateway to spectacular waterfalls and geothermal areas where you might choose to bathe in steaming pools — while an optional visit to an open-air museum reveals a poorer past.

■ SEYDISFJÖRDUR takes you into the world of the elves, which Icelandic people see as forces of nature that play a part in daily life. Learn about eider ducks and admire colourful wooden homes.

■ DJÚPIVOGUR is a perfect place to walk off and shop, go to a black-sand beach, or watch white gannets. Discover a centuries-old trading past at the Heritage Museum.

■ HEIMAEY in the Westman Islands is home to millions of puffins (above), cormorants and guillemots in summer. On an optional excursion, meet rescued beluga whales, and learn about the power of the 1973 volcanic eruption.