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The Diamond Circle

8 days - London to London

The area around Lake Myvatn abounds with interesting sights, displays of eerie lava formations, high rising steam clouds, black sand deserts and multi-coloured boiling mud pools. The lake itself is a famous breeding area for ducks, which nest in lush vegetation and raise their ducklings sheltered by nature and protected by man.

This tour is an alternative for those who want to experience the excitement of a highland ride while spending the nights in a higher standard of accommodation. You also have the advantage of being in a smaller group than we usually have on these tours since the maximum number for this tour is 14 guests.

Your ride starts over Hvammsheioi Heath before following Laxa Salmon River toward Lake Myvatn. To explore the area in depth a sightseeing bus tour is included to take you to Dimmuborgir, a true maze made by nature and Hverarond boiling mud pools and steam vents. Natural warm water is harnessed at Jaroboo geothermal outdoor pool where you can enjoy a swim in the mineral rich water of this new bathing facility. The riding leads further into the highlands and you catch a glimpse of Odaoahraun Lava field, the largest lava field in Iceland, before the ride changes direction and leads towards the shore again. In Baroardalur Valley you visit Gooafoss Waterfall and ride partly along the riverbanks back to Saltvik Farm. Sail out into the evening sun on an optional whale watching boat trip on your last night in the North.
Day 1 (D)
Depart London for Keflavik. On arrival you will be met and transferred to a guesthouse in Reykjavik. Enjoy a Welcome Meeting including traditional Icelandic soup. Receive details of your tour and meet your fellow riders.
Day 2 (B,L,D)
Transfer back to the airport for the flight to Akureyri, on arrival you will be met and driven to Saltvik Farm. Here you will meet the horses and ride into the mountains along the river Laxa to the highland plateau Hvammsheioi. Return to Saltvik Farm for overnight accommodation.
Day 3 (B,L,D)
Ride to Laxardalur Valley, named by a famous salmon river, and follow the river all the way to Lake Myvatn where you overnight at the guesthouse Vogar situated in beautiful surroundings near the lake. Bus tour around Lake Myvatn, famous for its geological wonders and rich bird life. Enjoy a nice hot bath in Jaroboo, a geothermal outdoor pool.
Day 4 (B,L,D)
Continue your ride towards Mt. Sandfell, through the valleys of Engidalur and Baroardalur, enjoying excellent riding paths throughout most of the day. Today you will see the mighty Odaoahraun Lava field, the largest lava field in Iceland and stay overnight at the cosy Guesthouse Kioagil on the banks of the glacial river. Skjalfandal.
Day 5 (B,L,D)
Ride through the Baroardalur Valley towards the magnificent Gooafoss Waterfall and on to Fellsskogur Forest. The horses are left at Torfunes Farm while you drive back to Saltvik for the night.
Day 6 (B,L,D)
A final day riding through beautiful landscape characterized by the vast lava fields of Aoaldalshraun and rich birch forest. Cross Hvammsheioi Heath as you ride back to Saltvik Farm where you spend another night and enjoy the hot outdoor tubs. There is a chance to out on a whale watching cruise (available at an extra charge).
Day 7 (B)
Return to Akureyri and fly back to Reykjavik. Afternoon at leisure. Overnight at the Reykjavik hostel.
Day 8 (B)
Transfer to Keflavik Airport for your flight to London.
Iceland
  • Cost per Person:
  • Ride Only: £1,435
  • Includes: Includes domestic flights, transfers, accommodation and meals as specified, sleeping bag and all riding.
  • All Inclusive: From £1,735 depending on season.
  • Includes: Includes flights, taxes, transfers, accommodation and meals as indicated, sleeping bag and all riding.
  • Single Supplement: None if prepared to share. If unwilling to share £285 (2008).
  • Departure Dates: 12,26 Jul, 02 Aug.
  • The Accommodation: On this tour we exchange the usual mountain cabins used on our Icelandic holidays for real beds. Single room accommodation is also possible. Bathroom facilities are still shared but a hot shower is available every night. During the three nights spent at Saltvik Farm you will enjoy two outdoor hot tubs as well as amazing views over the ocean and the Kinnafjoll Mountain Range. In Reykjavik the accommodation is in a small hotel with private facilities. Iceland
  • Food & Drink: Scandinavian breakfast buffer, packed lunch (which everyone makes for themselves) and two course dinner. Coffee, tea, water and cordials are included. Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks are not available but may be taken.
  • Laundry: Not available.
  • Children: 8 plus but they must have the necessary riding skills and be accompanied by an experienced adult rider. Children under 12 receive a 25% reduction off the ride only price.
  • Non-Riders: The ride is not really suitable for non-riders but arrangements may be able to be made if required. A non-rider would need to travel in the kitchen vehicle.