Reykjavik, the world's most northerly capital, with a population of only 190,000 is beautifully positioned amidst fjords and mountain ranges.

It acquired its name, meaning 'Smoky Bay', after the first settler, Ingolfur Arnarson, a Norwegian Viking, saw plumes of steam rising from the geothermal springs there in AD874.

In actual fact Reykjavik is a completely smoke-free city heated almost exclusively by geothermal and hydro power. Icelanders are proud of having the cleanest, freshest air on the planet. Given the country's latitude of 64 degrees north, the temperature is warmer than one might expect, courtesy of the Gulf Stream. During summer the nights are bright with the sun setting around midnight. There are excellent shops, most being independently owned and even two shopping malls a short taxi drive away, great cafes selling home-made food and superb restaurants. Whatever your interests, Reykjavik has something to offer. Whether you are seeking the bustling energy and nightlife of a cosmopolitan city or the quiet green energy of the landscape surrounding the city, Reykjavik promises a memorable visit.