Press Digest 1st May 2007

GLOBAL WARMING? TIME TO CHILL-OUT IN ICELAND
GEOTHERMAL WONDERWALK

As numerous destinations start to feel the heat perhaps now’s the time to chill-out and head to Iceland. Once seen as an expensive and gloomy redoubt for unreconstructed cod warriors, the reality of Iceland is much more Björk than Bogner. Reykjavik has been cool for years but its population has remained warm through world-beating geothermal energy systems providing heating and power. Beyond the city limits, Iceland is justifiably renowned for its geology, encompassing the third biggest geothermal zone, dramatic volcanic scenery, green valleys and ice-blue glaciers. Follow the route of the mighty Skafta River and trek through a kingdom of multiple craters, reflective lakes, great canyons and looming volcanoes during Walks Worldwide’s 10-day guided Geothermal Wonderwalk, departing London 5th July and 2nd August 2007.

After a night in the remarkably cosmopolitan city of Reykjavik, transfer to Sveinstindur Mountain from where views across to Vatnajokull Glacier and Langisjor Lake interspersed with craters and lakes offer a spectacular introduction to this landscape. Ascend the hills to the enormous volcanic fissure of Eldgja (meaning fire canyon), and the waterfall of Ofaerufoss. Continue through the beautiful Swan Lake region, crossing the Syori Ofaera River on a natural lava bridge. Spend the night in a traditional hut by a lake created by a thousand-year-old the lava stream. Next day, follow the Skafta River past steaming springs, burnt lava plains and immense black mountains of Svartahnuksfjoll. Then cross the sand plains of Maelifellssandur to the green and ancient cones of Stora Sula and Hattfell Mountains. Here, enjoy incredible views of the glacier-covered Eyjafjallajokull Volcano (1664m) and the towering walls of Iceland's fourth biggest glacier, the Mylrdalsjokull. Continue past waterfalls, climbing lone craters and descending enormous fissures, traversing rivers, meandering between lush mountains and remote canyons. Later, head south to the picturesque birch forests and flowers in the Woods of Thor, one of the most beautiful valleys in Iceland. Finally, take the road back to Reykjavik, with time to enjoy the sights and sounds of civilisation before the return flight home.

The tour costs £1,795 p/p including flights, transfers, accommodation in guesthouses and mountain huts, most meals, full luggage transfers and expert guiding.

Walks Worldwide