EXPLORING ICELAND
Faculty
Lisa Reilly, Professor in Architectural History and Undergraduate Architectural History Program Director
Pricing
$4,995 per person, double occupancy, land only
$5,195 per person, double occupancy with economy class round-trip airfare from Boston, New York, Washington, DC plus $302 airline taxes and fees.
$5,595 per person, double occupancy, with economy class round-trip airfare from Charlottesville, VA, plus $302 airline taxes and fees.
Other Gateway Cities Are Available.
A limited number of single rooms will be available for a supplement of $795 to the per person, double occupancy rates.
Business Class upgrade (subject to availability) on round-trip international flight: $1,595 per person from Boston, Newark, New York, Wash, D.C. (Dulles); $2,195 per person from Chicago, Minneapolis; $2,595 per person from Denver, Seattle
Program Highlights
- Stay in well-located, atmospheric small hotels
- Encounter stunning, unique natural scenery
- Visit Hellisheidi’s geothermal power plant
- See popular Skogafoss waterfall
- Tour the dramatic Snaefellsnes Peninsula
- Marvel at Godafoss, “waterfall of the gods
- Explore Lake Myvatn’s mud flats, lava fields, and volcanic craters
- Witness Dettifoss, Iceland’s “Niagara”
- See Icelandic horses at a farm
- Tour historic Thingvellir National Park
- Enjoy leisure time in sophisticated Reykjavik
- Everyone on this trip will be required to be vaccinated against Covid 19
Lisa is the Commonwealth Professor in Architectural History and undergraduate architectural history program director. Her chief research interest is medieval visual culture. Her most recent book, The Invention of Norman Visual Culture: Art, Politics, and Dynastic Ambition (Cambridge University Press, 2020), establishes a new interpretive paradigm for the eleventh and twelfth-century art and architecture of the Norman world in France, England, and Sicily. Recently, she and Kevin Murphy co-edited a collection of essays, Skyscraper Gothic (UVA press), and co-curated a related exhibit at UVA’s Fralin Museum of Art, which opened in September 2021. Lisa has published books on Peterborough Cathedral and Vassar College (with Karen Van Lengen). She is currently writing a Corpus Vitrearum volume on the stained glass of the late medieval parish church, St. Michael le Belfrey, with Mary Shepard. Lisa is a leading early user of digital humanities technology and was a fellow at the Institute for Advanced Technology in the Humanities at UVA (2006-08).
In 2018, Lisa was awarded the Jefferson Scholars Foundation Award for Excellence in Teaching. She held the NEH/Horace Goldsmith Distinguished Teaching Chair of Art and Architectural History (1999-2002). She was awarded a hybrid challenge grant by the Office of the President to redesign the architectural history survey using digital tools. Students in her course, “On Hajj with Ibn Jubayr: Reconstructing the 12th Century Mediterranean,” created digital exhibitions using Neatline. More recently, she taught a new course, “The Visible Past,” that explores different historical moments throughout medieval Europe through textual and visual evidence from the past, considering how more localized antique remains and their presentation may have influenced art and architectural production. In fall 2020, she is teaching an innovative course with Elgin Cleckley of the Department of Architecture, which is developing interpretive strategies for the Anne Spencer House and Garden with the support of a 3Cavs grant. She and Matthew McLendon, director and chief curator at the Fralin Museum, will offer a course on museum collecting with the support of a fellowship from the Jefferson Trust in spring 2021. Lisa has also taught courses on Viking art, most recently in spring 2021.
Lisa has traveled extensively with Cavalier Travels, most recently to Scotland, Cuba, India, the French and Italian Rivieras, Japan, and Egypt.
Overview
Discover Iceland’s spectacular scenery and rich cultural heritage on this 11-day small group tour that traverses an astonishing land. See Hellisheidi Power Plant’s geothermal exhibit and, traveling through “saga” country, visit the marvelous Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls. Exploration at wondrous Lake Mývatn includes Dimmuborgir’s bizarre lava formations and Namaskard’s boiling mud pots. Embark on a Puffin Island bird-watching cruise. Visiting another natural marvel, Glacial River Canyon National Park, admire jaw-dropping Dettifoss, Iceland’s “Niagara.” Stop at stunning Godafoss, “waterfall of the gods.” See famed Icelandic horses at a farm. Experience the Snaefellsnes Peninsula’s stupendous scenery – its vast lava field and bizarre rock formations. Thingvellir National Park offers fascinating historical insights. Marvel at Gullfoss waterfall and the famous Great Geysir. The Icelandic adventure ends with two nights in sophisticated Reykjavik and time for independent exploration. Spend more time discovering Iceland’s colorful capital with a 3-day/2-night Reykjavik post-tour extension.
Upon our early morning arrival in Iceland’s capital, we meet our Tour Director, have breakfast at a local restaurant then enjoy a scenic drive east. We stop to view the geothermal exhibit at the Hellisheidi Power Plant. Mid-afternoon, we reach pastoral Selfoss, and our hotel. Tonight: a briefing on the journey ahead followed by a welcome dinner.
Hotel Selfoss
Breakfast and Dinner (B,D)
Our first stop today is at picturesque Seljalandsfoss, Iceland’s most visited waterfall, followed by nearby Skogafoss, another popular waterfall, known for its rainbows on sunny days. We continue on to lovely Vik, Iceland’s southernmost town, where we’re free to explore and shop for items of locally produced wool. This afternoon, we walk along the black-sand beach at Reynisfjara, lined with columnar basalt-filled caves. En route to our hotel, we stop by the Solheimajokull “sliding” glacier.
Hotel Selfoss
(B)
"Skogafoss rainbow" by Dag Endre Opedal is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.
We transfer to Reykjavik this morning for the one-hour flight to Akureyri, Iceland’s “northern capital,” where, upon arrival, we travel to beautiful Lake Myvatn. One of the world’s natural wonders, Lake Myvatn and its environs of bubbling mud flats, lava fields, and lunar-like volcanic craters comprise a stunning national park. We stop to explore the bizarre lava formations at Dimmuborgir, and also see the region’s unique “pseudo craters,” the boiling mud pots at Namaskard, the explosion crater at Viti, and the flat volcano system at Krafla.
Fosshotel Myvatn
(B,D)
This morning we travel to Husavik, where we embark on a bird-watching cruise to Puffin Island. We may see thousands of seabirds here, including puffins, black guillemots, fulmars, and Arctic terns. This afternoon, we visit Vatnajökull National Park, yet another of Iceland’s natural wonders. Here we see Asbyrgi, a huge canyon enveloped by towering walls; in the middle of the partially wooded canyon sits a hoof-shaped rock called “The Island.” Next, we visit Hljodaklettar Echo Cliffs, where we explore the labyrinth of “echoing rocks” created by the spiral basalt formations of the arches and canyons here. Our last stop: jaw-dropping Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall and Iceland’s “Niagara.”
Fosshotel Myvatn
(B,L,D)
"Check it Out, Puffins!" by ChrisGoldNY is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0.
This morning, we stop at Godafoss, the “waterfall of the gods” named for the carvings of Norse gods discarded here when the country was declared Christian a thousand years ago. Mid-morning, we arrive in Akureyri, where we have free time to explore and for lunch on our own. We travel on to Siglufjördur, where we visit the unique Herring Era Museum then arrive at our hotel in time for dinner there tonight.
Hotel Siglo
(B,D)
We travel towards the southwest corner of Iceland today, passing through more incredible natural scenery. En route, we visit Glaumbaer, a folk museum featuring authentic turf houses. Later we stop at a Gauksmyri farm featuring famed Icelandic horses – small, hardy, and with long manes. We also enjoy scenic views at Grabrok Crater, and stop to view the thermal areas of Deildartunguhver and Hraunfossar Falls.
Hotel Husafell
(B,D)
Today we encounter the stunning Snaefellsnes Peninsula. We begin with a walk along the shell sand beach at the abandoned fishing village of Budir, surrounded by a vast lava field. We also explore the caves and bizarre rock formations along the rugged shore at Arnarstapi, site of thousands of nesting cliff birds. After a lunch of a traditional fresh seafood soup at a rustic oceanfront restaurant, we see the haunting remains of abandoned coastal farms at Djupalonssandur.
Hotel Husafell
(B,L,D)
En route to Reykjavik today, we visit Thingvellir National Park, known both for its historic import and as the place where the fissure between the geological plates of North America and Europe is most evident. It’s also a gem of nature, with canyons, caves, waterfalls, and ponds surrounded by snowcapped mountains. We learn about the historic parliament founded here in 930 CE, and walk along a gorge into the rift valley itself. Then we depart for famed Great Geysir and Gullfoss, Iceland’s immensely popular “golden” waterfall. We continue on to Reykjavik, arriving in time for dinner on our own in this stylish city.
Hotel Reykjavik Centrum
(B,L)
This morning we embark on a tour of the Icelandic capital. Then the remainder of today is at leisure to explore and enjoy Reykjavik as we please; those who wish can join in an optional tour to the Blue Lagoon. Tonight, we celebrate our adventure over a farewell dinner.
Hotel Reykjavik Centrum
(B,D)
"Reykjavik and the Vestmannaeyjar 017" by brooke_e_hall is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.
Today we depart for the airport and our return flights to the U.S.
(B)
Reykjavik, “On Your Own”
May 22-24, 2022
3 days/2 nights for $395 (Single Supplement: $295)
Included in Extension Price:
- 2 nights’ accommodations Hotel Reykjavik Centrum
- 2 meals: 2 breakfasts
- Transfer to Reykjavik airport
- Selfoss – Hotel Selfoss – 2 nights
- Lake Myvatn – Fosshotel Myvatn – 2 nights
- Siglufjördur – Hotel Siglo – 1 night
- Borgarbyggo – Hotel Husafell – 2 nights
- Reykjavik – Hotel Reykjavik Centrum – 2 nights
- 20 meals: 10 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 7 dinners
$4,995 per person, double occupancy, land only
$5,195 per person, double occupancy with economy class round-trip airfare from Boston, New York, Washington, DC plus $302 airline taxes and fees.
$5,595 per person, double occupancy, with economy class round-trip airfare from Charlottesville, VA, plus $302 airline taxes and fees.
Other Gateway Cities Are Available.
A limited number of single rooms will be available for a supplement of $795 to the per person, double occupancy rates.
Business Class upgrade (subject to availability) on round-trip international flight: $1,595 per person from Boston, Newark, New York, Wash, D.C. (Dulles); $2,195 per person from Chicago, Minneapolis; $2,595 per person from Denver, Seattle
Ready to register? The best way to do this is by phone so that we can ensure we are meeting all of your needs. Please call us at 866-765-2646 or 434-243-4984, or e-mail cavaliertravels@virginia.edu with your contact information and the best time to reach you.
A refundable deposit of $500 per person is required to reserve your spot. Your deposit is fully refundable up to 95 days before departure. Final invoicing will be done approximately 110 days prior to departure. Final payment is due 95 days prior (February 6, 2022)to departure.
Deposits can be made by personal check or credit card. Our tour operator, Odysseys Unlimited, Inc., reserves the right to cancel any reservation that is not paid in full at any time after final payment is due. If you make your reservation after the final payment date, payment in full will be required upon reservation.
Early registration is encouraged as space is limited.
Please read this information carefully, as payment of a $500 deposit per person represents your acceptance of the following Terms and Conditions.
Cavalier Travels reserves the right to use photos that might include you in marketing materials and for other purposes unless you specify otherwise.
Payment Schedule: A deposit of $500 per person confirms your reservation. The balance of your invoice is due 95 days (February 6, 2022) before departure.
Included in Tour Price: Round-trip air transportation from listed cities; flight within itinerary; 9 nights’ accommodations in First Class hotels; extensive sightseeing as described, including all entrance fees; 20 meals: 10 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 7 dinners; services of an Odysseys Unlimited Tour Director; private motorcoach transportation throughout your trip; luggage handling for one bag per person; gratuities for local guides, dining room servers, airport and hotel porters, and all drivers.
Not Included in Tour Price: Airfare and airport transfers when purchasing a Land Only package; airfare from your hometown to your departure city; costs of passports and visas; personal expenses such as beverages, laundry, room service, and meals not specified; communication charges; optional sightseeing; gratuities to your Odysseys Unlimited Tour Director, which are at your discretion (suggested gratuities: $10–$15 per traveler, per day); and travel protection insurance. Additional baggage fees may apply and are subject to change at any time. You should confirm directly with your airline(s) prior to departure.
Cancellation, Refunds, and Changes (updated 12/14/21): If you must cancel your trip, the effective date of cancellation will be upon the University of Virginia’s receipt of your notification. Refunds for cancellations are subject to the following per person charges:
- Cancellations received prior to 60 days before departure will receive a full refund of all monies paid to Odysseys Unlimited;
- Cancellations received 59 to 30 days before departure will receive a future tour credit for the full tour cost to be used on another UVA Alumni & Parent Travel/Odysseys Unlimited tour departing in 2022 or 2023;
- Cancellations received 29 to 0 days before departure will receive no refund.
If you make any changes to your reservation from 94 to 30 days prior to departure, Odysseys Unlimited, Inc. will apply a $100 per person administrative fee, in addition to any fees or penalties imposed by third parties. Changes are subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed. If your reservation changes from double occupancy to single occupancy for any reason, you will be charged the single supplement. No changes are allowed within 30 days of departure.
Upon reservation, you must provide your full legal name as it appears on your passport, as well as your date of birth and gender. In the event an airline ticket is issued with incorrect information you have provided, you will be responsible for charges associated with the ticket’s reissue.
Responsibility: The liability of the University of Virginia, as sponsor, and Odysseys Unlimited, Inc., as tour operator, is strictly limited. Odysseys Unlimited, Inc. purchases transportation, hotel accommodations, and restaurant and other services from independent suppliers not under our control. We serve only as agents for these suppliers in securing tour arrangements, and therefore will not accept responsibility for wrongful, negligent, or arbitrary acts or omissions of these independent contractors, or of their employees, agents, servants, or representatives. The University of Virginia and Odysseys Unlimited, Inc. are not liable for injury, damage, loss, accident, or delay that may be caused by events not within our control, including, without limitation, acts of terrorism, war, strikes, the defect of any vehicle, or the negligence or default of any third party. All coupons, receipts, and tickets issued are subject to the terms and conditions specified by the air carriers, cruise lines, and other independent suppliers. We will make every effort to operate our tours as planned, but we reserve the right to make itinerary changes as necessary. If unforeseen circumstances require us to change a hotel, we will select alternative accommodations of the same or better quality.
Health and Medical Issues: We request that you be in good health to participate in this University of Virginia tour. There is a considerable amount of walking, and you must be able to get on and off motorcoaches and boats on your own. We regret that we cannot offer individual assistance; in such cases you must be accompanied by a companion who will assist you. Please note that many of our itineraries, for reasons beyond our control, cannot accommodate wheelchairs. Please call or e-mail us to inquire and we will do our best to answer any questions you may have. We reserve the right to remove anyone whose physical or mental condition, in our opinion, compromises the operation of the tour or detracts from the enjoyment or safety of the other passengers. In that event, Odysseys Unlimited, Inc. and the University of Virginia assume no financial responsibility for any unused portion of the tour.
Air Transportation – Important Information: Odysseys Unlimited, Inc. includes in its tour price round-trip economy air from designated gateway cities, and contracts with those airlines the company feels provide the level of service, routings, and value necessary for your entire trip. While another airline may offer a more direct connection, it may be at a price unavailable at the lower group rates. You will receive your preliminary air schedule approximately 2½ months prior to departure. Please note that seat assignment on your international flight is usually done at airport check-in. Odysseys Unlimited, Inc. is unable to guarantee any seat assignments. Due to the nature of tour operator tickets, other restrictions apply, including, but not limited to, frequent flyer mileage accrual, stopovers, alternate travel dates, upgrades, and airline taxes and fees. If you prefer to make your own travel arrangements, Land Only is available on most tours. Since international and domestic air schedules are subject to change at any time, we recommend that if you choose to make your own airline reservations, you do not purchase non-refundable tickets or those with high penalties for changes. If you choose to make your own air arrangements, Odysseys Unlimited, Inc. shall not have any liability for any loss resulting from cancellation of this tour or changes in this tour.
COVID-19 Health and Safety Protocols: The well-being of our guests and staff members on tour will continue to be our highest priorities. To maintain a healthy environment for travel, we will be establishing and adhering to a detailed set of health and safety protocols for all facets of your tour. We are committed to following the guidelines of the State Department, CDC, WHO, and authorities of respective countries regarding travel to a particular destination. Detailed protocols for this tour, based on conditions at the time, will be provided approximately 115 days prior to departure.