Geysers and Glaciers - 15 nights, June 2013

Embark on a journey across the fjord, along the slopes of Vadlaheidi Mountain, through the Fnjoskadalur Valley and Vaglaskogur Forest - one of Iceland's rare woodlands which are part of an extensive soil and vegetation reclamation project to historic Godafoss.

Stop off at Goðafoss, a breathtaking 30 foot waterfall, to photograph its impressive cascading falls before continuing on to visit Laufás Folk Museum.

The Laufás Folk Museum, a 19th century farmhouse built in the traditional Icelandic style of stone and turf, provides a glimpse back into ancient times. Once a manor farm and vicarage, the turf farmhouse dates back to 1866, and contains many interesting household and agricultural implements used by the gentry at around that time.

On the scenic return journey, there will be a stop at the Botanical Gardens, to admire its 2,000 species of local and foreign flowers, before taking a leisurely drive around the old town and main sights of Akureyri.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There are a few steps and some uneven ground at the Folk Museum. The Botanical Gardens’ collection of flora and fauna is dependent on the weather conditions experienced throughout the year. At Goðafoss there is an uneven, lava surface and no handrails; therefore passengers are advised to exercise caution. Comfortable, flat and enclosed footwear is recommended.

The charming village of Olden sits in lovely surroundings, by one of the innermost fjord arms of the mighty Nordfjord, stretching 62 miles inwards from the sea. Travel along the shores of the fjord to the pretty holiday village of Loen, which is surrounded by the fjord, Lovatnet Lake, glaciers, high mountains and lush vegetation.

On arrival in the Kjenndalen Valley, a ten minute walk will take you to a viewpoint to see the Kjenndalen Glacier.

Enjoy refreshments of coffee or tea and a waffle at the Mountain Lodge before taking a boat trip down the 12½ mile long Lovatnet Lake to Sande. Sit back and relax on the leisurely cruise as you pass lovely scenery including the ill-reputed Ravnefjellet (Ravens’ Mountain), whose rockslides have caused tidal waves destroying many of the residences along the lake. At Sande, you’ll rejoin your coach for the return journey along the fjord to Olden.


This excursion will operate by coach and boat. There are a few steps to access the boat, including those to the upper deck. Please wear flat, enclosed footwear and carry a warm jacket. There is limited seating on the top deck of the boat. This tour involves tunnels. Please be advised that due to the low number of boats available, capacity on this excursions is strictly limited therefore early pre-booking is essential.

The Roman City of Bath and the beautiful countryside which surrounds it, has been described as one of England's most beautiful places to visit. Bath is situated within the south west of England and is a 2,000 year old fabulous spa town, built around Britain's only hot mineral springs.

Bath offers a multitude of fantastic places to visit and is very easy to navigate on foot. Designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1987, the city has some of the finest architectural sites in Europe and boasts a unique and diverse range of historic features, which attract people the world over.

Your visit will begin with a panoramic tour of Bath, with your guide bringing the city to life as you pass the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, the Royal Crescent, the Circus and the parks, including Royal Victoria Park. There will be approximately three hours’ free time to explore this historic city at your own leisure. Watch the many street performers, visit the Roman Baths Museum, discover Jane Austen’s connection to the city at the Jane Austen Centre, wander around the fabulous shops or simply sit back and enjoy the bustling atmosphere.


Guests who are embarking or disembarking the ship in Southampton should not book a shore excursion for this port.  Southampton excursions are available for guests visiting Southampton as a port call.

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The transfer time to Bath is approximately 1¾ hours. Luncheon is not included to allow maximum flexibility. Please remember to carry local currency (pounds sterling). Any walking is at guests’ own discretion. Bath is relatively flat but some streets are cobbled.

From Olden village centre your journey takes you past the two old churches of Olden, one dating back to 1759 and the other, a quaint red painted church from the 1930’s, which was a gift from an American who settled in the village. Travelling along the shore of the small Floen Lake, you will arrive in Eide, where you will transfer to a boat.

Enjoy a leisurely cruise on the long and narrow Oldevatnet Lake, one of Norway’s most beautiful. Enjoy the mountainous scenery with its numerous waterfalls which surround the lake. Admire the long, white tongue of the Melkevoll Glacier and the arms of the spectacular Jostedalsbreen Glacier, including the Myklebustbreen Glacier. Your cruise will end in Rustøen, where you will re-board your coach for the scenic drive back to Olden.


This excursion will operate by coach and boat. There are a few steps to access the boat, including those to the upper deck. Please carry a warm jacket. This tour involves tunnels. Please be advised that due to the low number of boats available, capacity on this excursions is strictly limited therefore early pre-booking is essential.

Travel by coach through the beautiful Olden Valley with its majestic mountains, glacier tongues, waterfalls and the green Olden Lake. On arrival at the Briksdal Inn, you’ll begin your walk up to the Briksdal Glacier.

Briksdal Glacier, located in Jostedalsbreen National Park, is part of the Jostedal Glacier Icefield, which is the largest glacier on the European mainland. This massive Glacier flows 4,000 feet down the mountainside into the Briksdal Valley. A 45 minute walk will take you across the river and through pristine scenery until you come face to face with one of Europe’s most spectacular examples of an ancient Glacier.

There will be time to photograph the Glacier’s many shades of blue and turquoise before walking back to the Briksdal Inn where refreshments of coffee, tea and cakes will be served. There will be time to browse the souvenir shop before boarding the coach back to Olden.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The walk to the glacier is approximately 1½ miles, the first part is quite steep however it becomes flatter in places. Please wear comfortable, enclosed walking shoes and carry a bottle of water and a warm jacket. Please heed the warning signs erected near the glacier and do not venture beyond the safety barriers. The glacier is not visible from the refreshment venue. This tour involves tunnels.

Your journey will take you through the beautiful New Forest National Park, where you will have the chance to see the famous New Forest ponies which graze on the wild heathland, before arriving at Exbury Gardens. Created in the 1920’s, Exbury Gardens are a spectacular 200 acre site, world famous for the Rothschild collection of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, rare trees and shrubs. So spectacular are the gardens that the Queen of England enjoys private visits every year.

The Gardens have been specially created to reflect the changing colours of nature throughout the different seasons. During the spring the magnolias, camellias, azaleas and wisteria burst into flower, whilst the Daffodil Meadow is a carpet of glorious gold. The spectacular collection of over ten thousand rhododendron specimens is at its best with its display of beautiful colours.

During the tour there will be the opportunity to take a delightful 20 minute ride on a small narrow gauge steam railway to see parts of the Gardens not accessible on foot.

The Gardens contain a quaint tearoom, which serves a delicious English cream tea (own expense), and an extensive gift shop selling an array of gifts and souvenirs.


Guests who are embarking or disembarking the ship in Southampton should not book a shore excursion for this port.  Southampton excursions are available for guests visiting Southampton as a port call.

This excursion will operate by coach, mini steam train and on foot. There is up to three hours of walking, which is at guests' discretion. The railway and main paths of the Gardens are wheelchair accessible. There is a buggy tour available on the day for those with limited mobility (additional expense, payable direct).

Travel up the scenic, ridge-top road to a viewpoint overlooking the vibrant capital city of Torshavn, before taking a leisurely drive north through the varied, dramatic and beautiful scenery of the Faroe Islands.

There will be a photograph stop at a viewpoint overlooking the valley and the tiny village of Norðradalur, where on a clear day, you can also see the Island of Koltur.

As your coach winds its way down into the valley, you’ll be able to see the fjords opening up on either side and several colourful little villages dotted around. There will be a brief stop at two of the loveliest villages to take photographs. The villages are among the oldest settlements in the Faroe Islands and are characterised by their colourful wooden houses and green turf roofs.

The route back to Torshavn will take you through a tunnel and alongside the fjord.


This excursion will operate by coach. The majority of sightseeing is conducted from the comfort of your coach.

Admire the views over the harbour, town and fjord as you walk along the Strandgata into the thriving town of Akureyri. Take a leisurely stroll down the colourful Artist’s Alley before visiting the towering Akureyri Church.

Akureyri Church, consecrated in 1940, is one of the town’s proud symbols and enjoys a prominent position on the edge of the hill overlooking the town. The Church houses many interesting artefacts including a stained glass window, part of a set in England’s Coventry Cathedral, which was brought to Akureyri for safe keeping during World War 2.

After seeing the Church, you’ll explore the old mid town area with an expert local guide, who will share stories of the town’s local history and culture. As you wander past the old town houses you’ll notice their distinctive architecture which is a result of Akureyri’s past life as a trading post for Danish merchants.

At the Museum of Akureyri, you’ll be able to absorb a little more of the local history through the interesting exhibitions and picture gallery.

Finally, your walk will take you along the picturesque coastal path before returning to the church.


This excursion will operate on foot. There is approximately three hours of walking over a combination of flat, paved, gravel and uneven surfaces. There are 95 steps to reach Akureyri Church. The tour will end at the bottom of the church steps and from here you can choose to either stay in the town or walk the 300 yards back to the ship.

A scenic drive through varied and striking Icelandic scenery will take you past Lake Mývatn, renowned for its exceptionally rich fauna of water birds, especially ducks, to Mývatn Nature Baths.

Mývatn Nature Baths offer a completely natural and relaxing outdoor experience. Admire the adjacent scenery as you take a luxurious dip amidst clouds of steam in a pool of geothermal water, maintained at a constant temperature of 37-40°C. The Baths contain a unique blend of minerals, silicates and geothermal micro organisms which are beneficial to the skin. Relax and unwind as the warm, soothing water lifts your spirits and creates a sense of wellbeing. The facilities at the Baths also include 3 natural steam baths, a caféteria, changing rooms and showers.

After your soothing visit, you’ll stop off to admire the beautiful Goðafoss waterfall. The splendid views and surrounding landscape will make your rejuvenation experience complete.


ACTIVITY EXCURSIONS
You and all those in your party should be aware that, in undertaking activity excursions, you will be involved in a degree of physical exertion and/or activity such as hiking, biking, snorkelling, kayaking, diving etc. By booking the excursion you confirm that you and all those in your party are in good physical and mental condition, with no history of conditions such as seizures, dizziness, fainting, heart condition, respiratory problems or back/neck problems (by way of example only). You should also ensure that no one in your party is taking medicine that carries a warning about impairment of physical or mental abilities. If you are pregnant this type of excursion may not be appropriate for you. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are fit and well enough to take part in the activities booked and you are reminded to take care for your own safety. Because of the risks associated with activity excursions, you may be asked by the excursion provider to sign a document which may affect or limit the excursion provider’s liability. Comfortable flat walking shoes are recommended.

BEACH/WATER RELATED EXCURSIONS
For any excursion involving water, guests are reminded to exercise particular care. Alcohol and eating a full meal should be avoided before swimming. If buoyancy aids are provided for an activity they must be worn at all times. You should bear in mind that the sea is unpredictable. Lifeguards are unlikely to be present and there may not be a flag system to indicate whether or not it is safe to go in the water. In addition, beach activities may not be supervised or accompanied and so you should take care to satisfy yourself as to the safety of the beach and/or the sea at the time of your excursion. Please exercise caution when entering the sea as the seabed and aquatic environment is capable of springing surprises and we have not inspected the beach or seabed for its safety. Children must be supervised by you at all times near water. All activities on the beach, water and in the sea are undertaken at your own risk. You’ll need to take swimwear, a towel, sunscreen and flat shoes that can be worn in the water.

LIABILITY
Cunard will arrange for the excursions to be performed by the relevant excursion provider. Cunard does not provide or supply the excursion services. Cunard will exercise reasonable care and skill in the selection of the excursion provider, but will not in any circumstances have a greater liability than the excursion supplier and Cunard shall not be responsible for the negligent acts/omissions of the excursion supplier. Please note that in relation to all excursions Cunard is not responsible or liable for any loss, damage, or injury sustained by you unless such loss, damage or injury arises out of a breach of legal duty of Cunard.

TRAVEL INSURANCE
Before booking any activity excursions it is essential that you ensure your travel insurance extends to cover the specified activity. It is your responsibility to obtain adequate insurance.

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The journey to Mývatn Lake is approximately 1½ hours. At Goðafoss there is an uneven, lava surface and no handrails; therefore guests are advised to exercise caution. Comfortable, flat and enclosed footwear is recommended. Please remember to take swimwear and a towel.

Reykjavik revels in its reputation of being one of the most modern, forward thinking societies in Europe. This panoramic tour will allow you to observe a little of Iceland’s geological phenomena, hear tales of Viking settlers, enjoy the varied landscapes, and learn something of the countries historical and cultural origins.

Visit the impressive volcanic craters of the Heidmork conservation area before arriving at The Pearl. This remarkable and unique building consists of a glass observation dome sat on top of several huge water tanks. The tanks store natural hot water which is used to heat the city. Enjoy a stroll around The Pearl’s glass dome for panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Your panoramic drive will head towards the Laugardalur or ‘warm water valley’, passing the city’s main sports and recreation area, with its outdoor geothermal swimming pool. You will also have a chance to see the famous Höfdi House, where the summit meeting between President Ronald Reagan and Secretary General Mikhail Gorbachev was held in 1986.

Head towards the charming old quarter of Reykjavík with its colourful wooden houses and narrow streets. Passing the city lake, Tjörnin, you’ll skirt the university complex and head towards the old harbour area to enjoy a short photograph stop.


This excursion will operate by coach. There is a flat walk of approximately 27 yards from the coach parking area to The Pearls entrance. A limited number of lifts provide access to each floor and to the viewing platform.

As you travel around Ísafjörður hear from your guide how life has treated the locals through the centuries. Enjoy a view of the magnificent mountains of the largest fjord in the West Fjords, the Ísafjarðardjúp (a fjord containing 16 fjords), before arriving at the old Icelandic settlement of Ósvör.

Ósvör is an open-air museum containing a double 19th century fishing base, salt hut, fish drying area and drying hut. An old fisherman will be waiting to welcome you, wearing a skin suit that is similar to the one Icelandic sailors used to wear, and will tell you about life in fishing stations and show you the various equipment and tools that were used.

A short distance from Ósvör is the village of Bolungarvík, where a stop will be made to enjoy a typical Icelandic music programme in the old local Hólskirkja church. From here your journey takes you to the Buná River and Waterfall in Tunguskógur, where there will be the opportunity to sample some of the clear and refreshing mountain water that flows down the stream.

Back in Ísafjörður, a visit will be made to the Maritime Museum, the oldest cluster of houses in Iceland, before watching a local performance given by the only teenage professional theatre company in Iceland. During your visit typical Icelandic refreshments of Schnapps and dried fish will be served.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This tour involves some rough and uneven terrain. There are 20 uneven stone steps, without a handrail, to reach Ósvör. There is no seating for the local performance.

Your drive will take you through the lovely ‘Art Nouveau’ style town centre of Ålesund, along the Borgundfjord, to the old trading centre of Borgund.

Borgund’s beautiful natural surroundings are the setting for Sunnmøre Open-Air Museum. The site has an outdoor display of 50 old and distinct houses. As you stroll between the picturesque houses you’ll feel as if you have stepped back in time, and on entering the houses you’ll get a feel of how Norwegian people lived centuries ago. There is also a vast boat collection, including replicas of Viking ships, whilst the main building showcases an archaeology and culture exhibition. The museum provides a unique and fascinating insight into the life of the people who have inhabited this area for several thousand years.

On the return journey, enjoy a drive around the Ålesund’s highlights before heading up Mount Aksla for a stop to absorb the magnificent views over this lovely Art Nouveau town and its surrounding areas.

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately 45 minutes of walking at Sunnmøre over gravel and some uneven ground. Some of the houses have stairs and low doorways, therefore guests should take extra care on entering. Please remember to carry local currency (Norwegian Kroner) if you wish to purchase refreshments or souvenirs. Comfortable walking shoes are advisable. This tour involves a drive through one long tunnel.

Despite erupting 2,000 years ago, Hengill Volcano is still very active – this is evident by the numerous natural hot springs, steam vents and fumaroles that dot the surrounding landscape. Hengill produces impressive amounts of energy by way of hydro and geothermal power – both of which are utilised to provide plentiful supplies of hot water and electricity. A visit will be made at the Hellisheidi Geothermal Plant visitor centre to learn about geosciences, geothermal technology, the environment and the history of the area.

Further on you will see the town of Hveragerði, which is located on top of an old magma chamber. Take a scenic drive passing by the town’s trademark greenhouses, before stopping for a short walk around the local geothermal area. Refreshments will be served in the locality including hot spring bread baked by traditional underground methods, together with Icelandic butter and a variety of accompaniments.

Continuing on towards the UNESCO site of Thingvellir National Park, you will literally travel from one continent to another as you cross the neovolcanic rift zone that slices through Iceland. Pass Thingvallavatn, Iceland’s largest natural lake, to a viewpoint where you will see countless hot springs continuously spraying their sulphur rich deposits over amazing scenery, before returning through a lunar-like landscape of volcanic phenomena and other geological wonders.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The terrain consists of paved, uneven and gravel pathways.

The popular vessel, Lady Anne, was built in 1952 and has rich traditions. Watch the serene landscape glide by, either from the lounge with its big windows, or from the open deck. The Hardangerfjord is known as the Queen of Fjords, and her beauty is timeless. At 111 miles long, the fjord is the second largest in Norway.

The scenery you will see changes between fjord and mountains, dramatic waterfalls, romantic fruit gardens and green fields. Many painters, writers and composers have found their inspiration in this wonderful scenery.

The Lady Anne will sail along the Eidfjord, before turning into the narrower Osafjord. You will then sail along the Ulvikfjord, where the tiny fruit village of Ulvik lies, before turning to travel back to Eidfjord.


This excursion will operate by boat. There is a walk of approximately 200 yards on even, flat terrain from your ship to Lady Anne. Guests are advised that part of the cruise is on the same fjord that your ship sails, before you branch off into the smaller fjords.

Super 4x4s are the result of decades of technical innovation and evolution, and feature the biggest available legal road tyres in the world. Expert drivers will take you to places magically created by the power of volcanoes, ice and time.

Shortly after leaving Reykjavík, drive along the pipeline road to the Frakkastígur Mountain pass. The pass offers you panoramic views over Lake Thingvallavatn, active volcano Hengill, and the geothermal powerplant of Nesjavellir and its surroundings – truly breathtaking scenery.

From Nesjavellir take the gravel road along Lake Thingvallavatn, driving along the lush farmlands of the south. The landscape and scenery changes until you reach an area of birch trees at Thrastarlundur. Take a short comfort stop in this beautiful spot before continuing the adventure.

Visit the hot spring community of Hveragerdi, before re-boarding the vehicles to head off the beaten track on a trail known as ‘The Thousand Waters’, where you will wind your way through numerous rivers, mud banks and streams. From here it’s back to the tarmac as you head back to Reykjavík.


ACTIVITY EXCURSIONS
You and all those in your party should be aware that, in undertaking activity excursions, you will be involved in a degree of physical exertion and/or activity such as hiking, biking, snorkelling, kayaking, diving etc. By booking the excursion you confirm that you and all those in your party are in good physical and mental condition, with no history of conditions such as seizures, dizziness, fainting, heart condition, respiratory problems or back/neck problems (by way of example only). You should also ensure that no one in your party is taking medicine that carries a warning about impairment of physical or mental abilities. If you are pregnant this type of excursion may not be appropriate for you. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are fit and well enough to take part in the activities booked and you are reminded to take care for your own safety. Because of the risks associated with activity excursions, you may be asked by the excursion provider to sign a document which may affect or limit the excursion provider’s liability. Comfortable flat walking shoes are recommended.

LIABILITY
Cunard will arrange for the excursions to be performed by the relevant excursion provider. Cunard does not provide or supply the excursion services. Cunard will exercise reasonable care and skill in the selection of the excursion provider, but will not in any circumstances have a greater liability than the excursion supplier and Cunard shall not be responsible for the negligent acts/omissions of the excursion supplier. Please note that in relation to all excursions Cunard is not responsible or liable for any loss, damage, or injury sustained by you unless such loss, damage or injury arises out of a breach of legal duty of Cunard.

TRAVEL INSURANCE
Before booking any activity excursions it is essential that you ensure your travel insurance extends to cover the specified activity. It is your responsibility to obtain adequate insurance.

This excursion will operate by 4x4 jeep. This tour is not suitable for those with injuries or conditions, which may be affected by the bumpy ride. Pregnant women and children under 12 may not participate.