Cassidy Travel Iceland Brochure 2023

ICELAND

It’s all about you!

Iceland is at the top of the world, surrounded by the bracing waters of the Nordic Sea and close to the Arctic Circle, between Norway and Greenland. It’s about one and half times larger than Ireland with a population of under 400,000. Its capital is Reykjavik.

Iceland is one of the best places on the planet to see the Aurora Borealis/Northern Lights. This place is like something you have never experienced before. The primeval landscape is dotted with volcanoes, magna chambers, tectonic plates and exploding geysers which belch out boiling steam creating hot springs and lava.

Snow covers the dark lands in winter with only 4/5 hours of daylight and yet, in summertime Iceland enjoys 23-hours of sunshine. So, whenever you choose to visit Iceland there is much to experience on this magical island.

If it’s wild you want, you’ve found it.

ICELANDAIR

Icelandair offers services to, from, via and within Iceland, they provide safe and reliable flights on both sides of the Atlantic. Iceland is located midway between North America and Europe and with daily all-year round direct flights from Dublin to Keflavik and then daily again from Keflavik to New York, Icelandair offers us a wealth of options for your 1 stop visit or a 2-centre combination matched and arranged to suit you!

** Please note flight schedules are correct at time of print and are subject to change. We will advise upon booking.

For your flight back to Ireland from New York we have a number of transatlantic carriers to choose from, and these can be arranged to suit both your budget and timetable.

JUNE - AUGUST Summetime with virtually no darkness - April/May & September is mild and ideal for self drives

You have probably heard tales of the midnight sun and Iceland’s 24 hours of daylight, when the sun never really sets, and the sky is full of reds, pinks and purples into the early morning hours. From April onwards the snow begins to melt, and the days grow longer, migrating birds and puffin colonies are evident in early summer and as the season progresses its snorkelling, whale watching and hiking that take the lead. The meadows are flowering, and the waterfalls are in full force, bike rides, self-drive road trips and gentle strolls are memorable in the shadows of these huge, towering peaks. Take to the water and paddle across fjords and enjoy the many colourful and lively festivals and local entertainment. Due to the long days (May-August the sun sets at midnight) you can fit in even more activities so there is no excuse!

WINTER Liffey Street - 01 873 5000 Ilac Centre - 01 969 5550 Donaghmede - 01 839 5000

TIME Talbot Street - 01 878 6888 Liffey Valley - 01 626 5100 Blanchardstown - 01 822 4000

We all want to observe and be close to the Aurora Borealis this phenomenon is commonly seen in the winter months and one of the top reasons for visiting from September to midApril. You will observe beautiful lights flickering and dancing over snow covered peaks. Nightfall is the time to get closer to nature and go hunting for those lights by cruise, minicoach or superjeep. In winter months snowmobile tours, jeep safaris and helicopter rides give you a sense of the unspoilt landscape. The Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spring, exceptional on days with a light snow!

Stephens Green - 01 525 3222 www.cassidytravel.ie

Reykjavik

The capital of Iceland and with one of the smallest populations of any capital city. It has around 135,000 inhabitants and enjoys a lively and eclectic mix of culture, art and music along with nature and nightlife. The city itself is easy to explore on foot by yourself or with a guided walking tour. The main shopping streets are easily accessible with high street stores and small boutiques selling goods with fashionable Icelandic designs. Venturing into the neighbourhoods you will come across pretty colourful houses and street art. At the weekends there is a flea market and the capital has plenty of cosy cafes and high-end cuisine to choose from. The city comes alive at night time with several bars and cafes offering live music, stand up comedy, opera, jazz, drag shows or cabaret performances. Drinks can be expensive so make sure to note the happy hours! The craft beer scene is also a big thing in Iceland.

Reykjavik directly translates to ‘Smokey Bay’

CUISINE

Local cuisine focuses mainly on seafood as you would imagine but lamb is also a big favourite. There are a variety of restaurants specialising in grilled meats and seafood and within the city you can find Thai, Italian, Mexican and Japanese being served. An Icelandic hotdog from Baejarins Beztu (The Town’s Best) is world famous just ask Bill Clinton or Kim Kardashian!

Some of our favourites..

CAFÉs

Try Grai Kotturinn for a cosy atmosphere, Kaffibrennslan for people watching, Babalu for a drink on the balcony or Braud&Co bakery for their delicious cinnamon buns .

RESTAuraNTS

Hlemmur Matholl a gourmet foodcourt with Vietnamese street food to Danish sandwiches, Hressingarskalinn, bistro style bar/club wide menu – Hard Rock Cafe

BARS

101 restaurant & bar, great for cocktails, Bryggjan Brewery & Bistro, fresh ingredients and quality beer, Slippbarinn, live jazz and dj’s and The Dubliner (you what that means!)

THE HIGHLIGHTS

Let’s jump straight in..

This is the main reason our clients come to visit Iceland to see as much as they can, return with lasting memories and experience the diverse range of landscapes, lagoons, glaciers and wildlife. In summer you can choose to do some of these under your own steam with a self-drive trip, but we work with expert guides on the ground year-round who really know their stuff and take care of you from start to finish. The tours are carefully crafted to show you the very best highlights and if for some reason weather intervenes trips can be switched to suit. Usually, your visit to Iceland is short and so you want to see as much as you can and not waste time. Of course, the activities on offer can be seasonal dependent. Here are our favourites!

BLUE LAGOON

This magical trip can be done all year round and this is the country’s other most visited attraction. A geothermal spa with opaque, milky blue warm water rich in minerals and good bacteria. It’s located within the volcanic Reykjanes peninsular which is widely known for its haunting landscapes, the spa is also surrounded by lava fields coated in grey moss and when viewed through a veil of steam the scene is magical. Plan a trip here at the start or the end of your journey. It’s very popular so we suggest pre-booking this.

PRICES FROM €125 - €160PP

NORTHERN LIGHTS

Everyone’s favourite and the most popular. This is seasonal and takes place in winter, when there are dark, clear skies. It’s never guaranteed but the locals know the weather patterns and have many secrets up their sleeves to hunt the lights and maximise the chances where possible. Our guides will allow you to go again for free if you don’t see the lights on your first visit (by coach) We have 3 options here: by coach, by super jeep or, our favourite by cruise. If you are visiting in summertime, you can observe the midnight sun instead. Simply jaw dropping!

PRICES FROM €57 - €223PP

* Price depends on mode of transport

FOOD TOUR

Firstly, we recommend you stay in the capital Reykjavik. If you can squeeze it in we recommend a guided walking food tour. This gives you a chance to stroll around the city, learn some of its history and points of interest whilst popping in and out to carefully selected restaurants and bars to sample the food and drink. Find your favourite place and then go back! This takes about 2.5hrs in the evening and 3.5hrs in the afternoon.

PRICES FROM €120PP

WHALE WATCHING

This can be done all year round. There are over 20 species of whales, dolphins and porpoises in Iceland’s waters. In the summertime this area is simply teeming with sea life, and you can mostly spot, white beaked dolphins, Minke whales and sometimes humpbacks, killer or Fin whales. Although, as with all things nature it’s not 100% guaranteed. It’s simply magnificent to see these gentle giants in their natural surrounds.

PRICES FROM €88 - €150PP

snorkel - silfa

There is nowhere else that you will be able to snorkel in the clearest waters in the world and float between 2 continents. The Silfa Fissure is created by the separation of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates cutting through Iceland, and it fills with glacial water that has been filtered underground for decades. This is an unforgettable experience and gear is provided as the water is 2 degrees all year round. You simply have to try this one.

PRICES FROM €175PP

JOKULSARLON GLACIER LAGOON

This lagoon simply outmatches all the others. This still lake is decorated with a silent procession of glittering icebergs that crunch and groan together as they make their way to the Atlantic Ocean. Take a Zodiac boat tour onto the lake or sit on the shoreline and watch the playful seals. Diamond Beach with its jet-black sand is minutes away and is the most surreal and visually appealing sights you will see in Iceland.

* This is a self drive option or overnight country stay.

PRICES FROM €155PP

*Prices are indicative

largest glacier in europe

Another popular place to visit is the Vatnajokull glacier, it makes up 8% of Iceland’s landmass with stunning ice caves.

Under the ice are at least three active volcanoes and the tallest peak in Iceland. The Vatnajokull feeds many rivers and was featured in Game of Thrones and two James Bond movies.

*Day trip packages are available

PRICES ON REQUEST

GAME OF THRONES

Imagine visiting the breath-taking scenery of the lands Beyond the Wall or the Bloody Gate. The unique and varied landscapes of Iceland are drenched in mythology and folklore. Walk in the footsteps of White Walkers & Wildings, see north of the wall landscapes in Thingvellir & Thjorsardalur and listen to behind the scenes stories and anecdotes shared by expert guides. View the dramatic rift where American and European tectonic plates meet.

PRICES ON REQUEST

SKY LAGOON

HORNSTRANDIER NATURE RESERVE

This place is renowned for its wildlife spotting in summertime. It’s a fantastic area to explore for both photographers and wildlife lovers. Its is the least populated area on the island with cliffs rising to 534 metres above sea level and home to thousands of seabirds.

You may be lucky enough to spot the only native land animal the Artic fox.

PRICES ON REQUEST

Iceland’s newest and best kept secret. A geothermal experience and close to Reykjavik about a 15 minute drive from the city. The Sky Lagoon is edged in high large grey rocks and nestles into nature with an infinity pool and expansive ocean views. This water is actually cooled from the springs to a toasty 38-40 degrees, lovely with a glass of cold bubbly from the swim up bar. You can also avail of the lounge/bar for snacks and relaxing.

There is a minimum age requirement of 12 years and so it’s a little more of a grown-up experience. Oh! and the difference here verses the Blue Lagoon is you can get your hair wet and not turn into a scarecrow!

PRICES ON REQUEST

* Prices on request for these tours and recommended to build into a self drive or tailor made itinerary.

FOR THE CRAZY ONES

For the thrill seekers ask us about the 4x4 super jeeps with 4-inch-high monster tyres, the monster trucks and the buggy adventures for those bumpy, dirty driving experiences and of course, snowmobiles on the Icelandic glaciers. All can be planned and pre-booked, so you arrive with everything sorted.

PRICES FROM €200 - €300PP

GOLDEN CIRCLE TOUR

Finally we also like the Golden Circle tour which covers a huge amount and takes from 7.5hrs to 11.5 hrs depending on what option you choose. These tours include sights such as a UNESCO World Heritage site, lava canyon where the continents have pulled apart, Gullfoss waterfall and the infamous Geysir erupting every 4-8 minutes and spouting water 30 metres into the air and/or a snowmobile tour across Iceland’s 2nd largest glacier Langjokull Glacier

PRICES FROM €70 - €300PP

We simply don’t have the space to cover all our options on this magical island but if you call us or pop into one of our stores we can explore other trips, accommodation choices and craft an itinerary to specifically suit you!

Two centre - Iceland & New York

ICELAND & NEW YORK

3* Option

3 Nights Reykjavik & 4 Nights New York

4* Option

3 Nights Reykjavik & 4 Nights New York

FROM €1659pp FROM €1559pp

So, this is our wild card and something you may not have thought of, and you might just like it as we enjoy mixing things up here at Cassidy Travel! Think about 3 nights in Iceland and then 4 nights in the Big Apple, now there’s a combo. Fly direct from Dublin to Iceland it takes 2.5 hours and there is no time difference between Ireland and Iceland. Stay 3 nights and get to all the top attractions and sights and then fly direct to New York which just takes 5 hours and 40 minutes. Stay in a hotel to suit your budget, we have hundreds to choose from and then fly directly back to Dublin in 6.5 hours.

A bucket list trip that everyone will be envious of!

HOTELS OUR recommendations

hotel borg

Situated on a beautiful square in the city centre this hotel occupies an enviable position. Art Deco in style with elegance and a modern flair throughout and surrounded by the Icelandic parliament and Reykjavik cathedral with restaurants and bars all around. There is a spa, gym, restaurant and bar. Beautiful stylish rooms with custom made furniture and parquet flooring. Free WiFi

hotel apotek

Fantastic location in the heart of Reykjavik most prestigious shopping, entertainment and cultural district. This stylish boutique hotel resides in a listed building with brightly decorated rooms and is one of the most remarkable hotels in the city. Free WiFi

Fosshotel Raudara

A value hotel in the centre of the city and close to the action, private bathrooms with bath or shower and satellite TV and tea/coffee facilities and cocktail lounge

An historical building from 1937 which was once a furniture factory, this hotel provides a perfect central location and is within a short stroll from the bustling high street with its string of shops, bars and cafes. Bikes can be rented for free and there is a 24-hour fitness centre. Well-appointed rooms with TV’s mini fridge and free WiFi

We have only given you a taste of what’s on offer here in Iceland but to make sure that we tailor-make to fit your personal requirements please contact one of our stores and our expect team of travel advisors will happily go through a myriad of options. Our website at www.cassidytravel.ie is available to browse at your leisure

canopy by hilton

Hotel Reykjavik Grand

Located 2kms outside town with spacious rooms with many offering mountain, sea or city views. This hotel has spa facilities and a fitness centre with free WiFi and tea/ coffee facilities.

storm hotel

A good value hotel in the city centre and only 350 metres from the various restaurants and shopping area with stylish Nordic design and comfortable accommodation offering tea/coffee facilities.

Fosshotel Baron

In a central but quiet location in the city and close to the waterfront, the shuttle bus from the airport stops right outside the hotel.

sand hotel

This is a special boutique hotel and located in the heart of Reykjavik with views of the city. Its minimalistic in design but luxurious, heated floors and fantastic breakfast a real treat!

REMINDER

Currency is Icelandic Krona (ISK) credit cards widely accepted, local currency available at the airport on arrival or at ATM’s Iceland drives on the right

TEMPERATURES IN ICELAND

Due to the gulf stream, the temperatures in Iceland are surprisingly mild in the winter time. The average temperature during Winter is 0° Celcius. The average temperature during Summer is 11° Celcius. Due to winds it usually feels colder in Iceland than the temperature dictates.

HOW TO DRESS IN ICELAND

As we say “you definitely wont get a tan in Iceland and with changing weather patterns, if you wait 5 minutes” you can experience all 4 seasons in a day! It’s advisable to wear layers in Iceland. Hats and Gloves are a good idea all year round.

• Waterproof walking shoes

• Waterproof Jacket

Layers of Short and Long sleeved shirts, fleece, jacket and sweaters.

Hiking Pants

• Hats & Gloves

• Swimsuits

• Waterproof Winter Jacket

• Thermal Underwear

Woollen or Fleece Sweaters

• Waterproof Hiking Boots

Waterproof Pants

• Wollen Socks

• Hat, Gloves & Scarf

Swimsuits

3* VALUE BREAK

4* VALUE BREAK

GOOD QUALITY BREAK

OFF GRID COUNTRYSIDE RETREAT

from €1359pp FROM €1788pp

TWO CENTRE OPTION

FrOM €1199pp FROM €2535pp from €3799pp FROM €1983pp

FAMILY MEMORIES

We have only given you a taste of what’s on offer here in Iceland but to make sure that we tailor-make to fit your personal requirements please contact one of our stores and our expect team of travel advisors will happily go through a myriad of options. Our web site at www.cassidytravel.ie is available to browse at your leisure

It’s all about you!

WHY NOT TAKE A LOOK AT THE REST OF THE CASSIDY COLLECTION?

BLANCHARDSTOWN: (01) 822 4000

Blanchardstown Shopping Centre

DONAGHMEDE: (01) 839 5000 Donaghmede Shopping Centre

DUNDRUM: (01) 291 0000 Dundrum Shopping Centre

ILAC CENTRE: (01) 969 5550

Ilac Shopping Centre

LIFFEY STREET: (01) 873 5000 24 Liffey Street Lower

LIFFEY VALLEY: (01) 626 5100 Liffey Valley Shopping Centre

STEPHENS GREEN: (01) 525 3222 Stephens Green Shopping Centre

TALBOT STREET: (01) 878 6888 103 Talbot Street

SWORDS: (01) 890 1000

Shopping Centre

TALLAGHT: (01) 462 9100 The Square Tallaght

Space limitation means that we can only show you a tiny selection of the vast array of hotels and destinations we feature. To receive a more personal service, detailed information and to avail of our extensive experience contact your local Cassidy Travel branch. We can tailor-make your holiday to your specific requirements. Alternatively, visit our web site www.cassidytravel.ie to see more content, images and video footage. Cassidy Travel acts purely as an agent for the various airlines, transport providers and hoteliers under whose terms and conditions apply. Visit our web site www.cassidytravel.ie to view terms and conditions. All prices valid at time of publication. Prices can and do fluctuate. We will always endeavour to provide you with the most competitive prices – always!