Iceland: Land of Fire & Ice
Iceland is unlike anywhere else on this planet. It is a geological playground for all of Mother Nature's wonders: vast glaciers, stunning waterfalls, otherworldly rock formations, and active volcanoes. Anyone with a penchant for the enchantment of the natural world will find solace on this mystical island in the Northern Atlantic.
Sept. 23 - 24: Reykjavik
- The Reykjavik EDITION | 1 night
Sept. 24 - 27: South Iceland
- Hotel UMI | 3 nights
Sept. 27 - 29: Blue Lagoon
- The Retreat | 2 nights
Sept. 29: Departure
In September, Iceland experiences cooler temperatures as autumn approaches. The average daytime temperatures range from 8°C to 12°C (46°F to 54°F). However, temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day, and it's not uncommon to experience a wide range of temperatures within a single day.
Upon your arrival in Iceland, pick up your rental car keys in the arrivals’ terminal. Head towards Reykjavik, where you will start your Icelandic adventure.
Your rental vehicle:
1 Kia Sportage Automatic 4WD (or similar)
- Unlimited mileage, CDW, TP, GPS, 1 DRIVER & VAT
- Rental car from late September to early October 2023
- CDW (Collision Damage Waiver)
- Theft protection
- Unlimited mileage
- GPS system with car
- Full coverage
Included by scenset.
You’d be hard-pressed to find another city like Reykjavik, a world capital where steamy lagoons, glaciers, fjords, volcanoes, and multiple national parks are just a day trip away. Apart from the natural phantasmagoria within easy driving distance, the city center is small enough to explore on foot but with plenty to stay entertained. Learn about Vikings, savor the avant-garde restaurant scene, and save some energy for Reykjavik’s legendary nightlife.
Why we love it for you? The hotel's architecture and interior design blend modern sophistication with Icelandic influences, creating a stylish and distinctive atmosphere that reflects the local culture and aesthetics. Situated in the heart of Reykjavik, the hotel offers easy access to the city's vibrant attractions, including shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the lively spirit of the capital.
The Reykjavik EDITION
Breakfast Included
Address: Austurbakki 2, 101 Reykjavik
Telephone: will be provided
Today, explore the Golden Circle, which consists of Geysir, Gullfoss Waterfalls, and Thingvellir National Park, in your rental vehicle. These are three must-see highlights of Iceland's spectacular nature, easily experienced in a single day.
We recommend departing this morning.
Our recommended first stop for today is Þingvellir National Park. At Þingvellir (pronounced "Thing-fell-ear"), one can witness Iceland's geological forces are in full effect. The Mid-Atlantic Ridge, which separates the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, runs directly through the park. Because of this, geologists have been able to determine that the island is slowly splitting apart at the rate of two centimeters per year due to the movement of these plates!
Additionally, Þingvellir was the site of Iceland's parliament, the longest surviving parliament in the world, from the year 930 until 1798 when it was migrated over to Reykjavik.
Please note that certain parking areas within Þingvellir National Park are to be paid directly.
The next stop are the geysers of Geysir & Strokkur. This geothermal area of Haukadalur plays home to a few of the most well-known and accessible geysers in Iceland. While Geysir rarely erupts, Strokkur shoots scalding hot water up to 100 ft into the air every 5-10 minutes!
We then suggest heading to Gullfoss. Gullfoss, meaning "Golden Falls", are powerful waterfalls sending upwards of 5,000 cubic feet of water into the canyon of the Hvítá River.
En route to the hotel, we recommend lunch at a farm. For centuries, Iceland only had access to a very limited amount of fruits and vegetables, and usually only ate them over Christmas. This all changed when geothermal energy was used to power greenhouses. Now, much of the produce sold in stores is homegrown, and many of the tomatoes come from this farm.
Drive to Fontana Bakery for a private experience with geothermal baked bread and tasting including smoked trout.
Fontana Bakery is a charming bakery located in Iceland, known for its delightful assortment of freshly baked goods. From traditional Icelandic pastries like kleina and kleinur to mouthwatering breads and cakes, Fontana Bakery offers a delectable range of treats. Visitors can savor the aroma of freshly baked goods while enjoying a cozy atmosphere, making it a must-visit spot for bakery enthusiasts in Iceland.
Duration: approximately 45 minutes.
Included by scenset.
Why we love it for you? Hotel UMI in Iceland is a charming and inviting destination that combines contemporary design with traditional Icelandic elements. With its picturesque location offering breathtaking views of mountains and waterfalls, it serves as an ideal base for exploring the natural wonders of Iceland. The dedicated staff provides personalized service, ensuring guests have a memorable stay by offering recommendations and catering to their needs. The hotel offers modern amenities, including comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving delicious Icelandic cuisine, creating a welcoming and comfortable environment for travelers seeking a unique and immersive Icelandic experience.
Hotel UMI is only about 140 km away from Reykjavik and 2 km of the Ring Road (Road NR. 1) and sits adjacent to one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the country. This prime location offers a strong connection to nature that allows for guests to experience the peace and quiet of the Icelandic countryside.
Hotel UMI
Breakfast Included
Address: Leirnavegur road nr. 243, Hvolsvöllur
Telephone: +354 518 4001
Driving along Iceland’s southern coast is a surefire way to sample all of the country’s most iconic geographic wonders. Travelers can see volcanoes, glaciers, waterfalls, ice caves, black sand beaches, lava rock fields—the list goes on—in just a day’s worth of driving, but better not to rush it. Pull over often and have your hiking shoes ready, because you’ll want as much time as possible to absorb the natural splendor all around you.
Seljalandfoss is unlike any other waterfall you'll visit in Iceland. Just behind the falls is a footpath that provides some spectacular photo opportunities. The view looking out to the coastline as the falls crash before you is nothing short of remarkable.
Along the way, be sure to make a stop at Skógafoss. Feel the full force of this waterfall as you walk through the shrouded mist directly to the water's flow. This is not a dry experience! If you'd rather avoid getting wet, there is a short hiking path up to the rocky cliffside that offers another perspective of the spectacular falls.
After your horseback riding tour, take a leisurely drive to the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara, beautifully framed against the rocky coast line by the basalt rock columns of Reynisdrangar.
Stop by Vik village, a picturesque coastal town located in southern Iceland. It is known for its stunning black sand beaches, including the famous Reynisfjara beach, with its towering basalt columns and dramatic waves. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, Vik is a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Hotel UMI
Breakfast Included
Address: Leirnavegur road nr. 243, Hvolsvöllur
Telephone: +354 518 4001
Meet your private driver-guide this morning. Today your destination is the spectacular Thórsmörk. You will be taken into the wild wonderland of the rugged and stunningly beautiful Icelandic landscape of Thórsmörk Valley, a natural paradise named after the Norse God, Thor.
The valley of Thórsmörk is situated in the south of Iceland between the Tindfjallajökull and Eyjafjallajökull glaciers and only accessible on 4WD vehicles (along with experienced drivers) as you need to cross glacial rivers for access.
Meeting Time: Morning
Meeting Point: Hotel lobby
Duration: 8 hours
Included: Packed lunch
Included by scenset.
Enjoy a picnic lunch with a view in this beautiful area of Thórsmörk, an oasis with surprising richness of bird life and vegetation, Arctic birch trees, and wildflowers.
Included by scenset.
Hotel UMI
Breakfast Included
Address: Leirnavegur road nr. 243, Hvolsvöllur
Telephone: +354 518 4001
Self-drive to the Retreat Hotel & SPA. Along the way, you will find yourself stunned by the sight of the endless rock formations covered in gray-green moss and feel like you’ve landed on the moon. Stop by Thrihnukagigur Volcano.
This incredible tour gives you the opportunity to descend inside the volcano, down into a magma chamber of a dormant Icelandic volcano, Thrihnukagigur. To be able to experience this volcanic wonder, all you need is the willingness to do a moderate 45–50 minute hike and the guts to descend 120 meters/400 feet to the bottom of the crater in an open cable lift.
Scheduled Group Tour
Duration: Approx. 4 hrs (45 min inside the volcano)
- All safety equipment included
- Light refreshments (Icelandic meat soup)
Fitness level needed: Moderate (the difficulty is 2 out of 5). No knowledge of hiking or climbing is required. It’s not a steep uphill walk, but the surface is partly uneven. The last 10 minutes of the hike are the most challenging, with an elevation of around 100m/350ft. This is NOT a tour for those in no or limited physical shape.
Distance: Approx. 3 km (2 miles) each way. The walk usually takes around 45–50 minutes (depending on the condition of people in the group).
- A guide will be with you at all times during the walk.
End the drive at the Blue Lagoon, a unique natural pool of mineral-rich geothermal water located in the middle of a lava field in the pure, beautiful Icelandic wilderness. The Blue Lagoon is known for its special properties and its beneficial effects on the skin. The Blue Lagoon attracts visitors from all over the world in search of health, relaxation, and an exotic experience.
Why we love it for you: The Retreat Hotel at the Blue Lagoon in Iceland is a luxurious oasis nestled in the heart of a geothermal wonderland. With its minimalist design and natural elements, the hotel seamlessly blends into the surrounding volcanic landscape. Guests can indulge in the healing powers of the Blue Lagoon's geothermal waters through exclusive access and rejuvenating spa treatments. The Retreat Hotel offers unparalleled relaxation, breathtaking views, and a truly unforgettable experience for those seeking a tranquil escape.
The Retreat at the Blue Lagoon
2 Moss Junior Suite Double
Inclusions:
- Access to Retreat spa, Blue Lagoon Ritual, Retreat lagoon, the Blue Lagoon
- À la carte breakfast
- Blue Lagoon skin care amenities
- In-room minibar with complimentary soft drinks, beer and wine.
- Wi-Fi
- Turndown service
- Group yoga lessons (daily)
- Use of fitness center
- A dedicated host
- Afternoon coffee in the lounge
- Concierge service
- Valet parking
- Resort fee & Taxes
Enjoy your day at leisure at The Retreat at The Blue Lagoon.
End the day with access to rest and relaxation at the Blue Lagoon, a unique natural pool of mineral-rich geothermal water located in the middle of a lava field in the pure, beautiful Icelandic wilderness. The Blue Lagoon is known for its special properties and its beneficial effects on the skin. The Blue Lagoon attracts visitors from all over the world in search of health, relaxation, and an exotic experience.
After checking out this morning, make your way to the airport in time to drop off your rental car and board your departing flight home.
