Inspired by the classic novel of the same name, Hollywood unleashes its latest sci-fi blockbuster this month as ‘Journey to the Centre of the Earth’ hits UK cinemas on 11 July.
It stars Brendan Fraser, as the movie charts the adventures of Professor Trevor Anderson travelling through never-before-seen worlds deep below the Earth’s surface, penetrating the planet’s crust from Snaefellsjokull – a volcanic crater that actually exists in north-west Iceland, where much of the filming took place.
Renowned for its natural beauty and breathtaking landscape of waterfalls, fjords, glaciers and lava fields, it’s not surprising that Jules Verne based his best-selling book from the ‘Voyages Extraordinaires’ series in Iceland. Graced with geysers and volcanoes in abundance, you can easily imagine the barrier between the surface of the Earth and its natural elements beneath is at its flimsiest in this incredible country.
And now, Iceland awaits the intrepid traveller on a seven-night holiday with Voyages Jules Verne. Stopping just short of actually penetrating the Earth’s crust via the afore-mentioned crater, the ‘Journey to the Centre of the Earth’ itinerary follows in the footsteps of the eccentric professor and his loyal team of explorers as well as taking an insightful look at the island’s many other natural attractions.
Staying in comfortable accommodation throughout, the journey begins in Reykjavik from where excursions explore Icelandic highlights including Thingvellir National Park (site of the old Viking Parliament), Geysir and Gullfoss waterfall before moving north via beautiful Borgarfjördur and the hot springs of Deildartunguhver, the historic farm site at Reykholt and the falls of Barnafossar. Black lava beaches, birdlife and remarkable rock formations offer an assault on the senses as the tour takes in the sights and sounds of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula while a welcome stop at the geothermal Blue Lagoon is an ideal opportunity for a refreshing soak or swim in warm mineral-rich waters.
With departure dates available throughout the year, there’s no excuse not to escape to Iceland this year and see for yourself the cinematic setting for this month’s big movie. ‘Journey to the Centre of the Earth’ with Voyages Jules Verne costs from £721 pp (based on two sharing) including return flights (Heathrow) with Icelandair, UK departure and overseas airport taxes, seven nights’ B&B, itinerary as described and the services of guides and local representatives. Optional excursions are also available, including a Northern Lights tour (November to March only) that costs £32 pp.
To book or for further information on Voyages Jules Verne’s wide range of classic journeys worldwide, visit www.vjv.com.
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