2024 Iceland Summer Solstice Itinerary
Here is a look at our proposed 2024 Iceland Summer Solstice Trip itinerary. It’s possible some changes will occur due to weather & partner availability, but we guarantee it will still be fun.
Day One - Hvalfjörður
Our Iceland trip begins with a stop at a traditional Icelandic bakery for some breakfast nibbles followed by a long relaxing soak in a thermal pool.
Next, we visit a traditional Icelandic farm for lunch and a tour. Then, we make our way to the Basalt Hotel, for a little R&R. Dinner is at the hotel.
Meals included: breakfast & lunch
Day Two - Golden Circle
After breakfast, We hit the road to Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is where the tectonic plates of North America and Eurasia are pulling apart, creating a rift valley that is both geologically and historically significant. Take a walk along the Almannagjá fault and imagine yourself standing between two continents. Also, visit the Öxarárfoss waterfall, a stunning cascade that tumbles into a deep gorge.
Next, we head to Gullfoss, the Golden Waterfall. This is one of the most popular waterfalls in Iceland and for good reason.
You are probably hungry by now, brace yourselves for some delicious traditional Icelandic lunch at a family-run farm.
After full bellies, we head to Geysir geothermal area. This is where you’ll find Strokkur, a geyser that erupts every 5-10 minutes. Watch in awe as Strokkur shoots a plume of hot water into the air. Take a walk around the geothermal area and see the other bubbling mud pools and fumaroles.
Later in the day, we go to Krauma Spa for a bit of relaxation. Dinner will be at the hotel.
Meals included: breakfast & lunch
Day Three - South Iceland
The first thing on today’s itinerary is the Laugarvatn Fontana geothermal pool. After a visit to their geothermal bakery & demo on how they make rye bread underground, you can take a rejuvenating soak in their mineral water and do an optional polar bear cold lake plunge.
After the pool, we head into one of the Golden Circle’s culinary triumphs, the Friðheimar Greenhouse, where you’ll witness the magic of tomato cultivation. Indulge in a delectable greenhouse lunch amidst the lush greenery and learn about sustainable farming practices.
Back on the road, our destination is the mighty Skógafoss waterfall, where you’ll be greeted by a thunderous cascade cascading down a dramatic cliff face. Feel the spray on your face and breathe in the fresh Icelandic air as you climb the steps to the top for panoramic views. Optional hike at the top of the waterfall for the adventurous.
After dinner at our Hotel Umi, we will head over the Iceland’s oldest swimming pool Seljavallalaug. The pool is heated and you are welcome to go for a swim!
Meals included: breakfast & lunch
Day Four - Vik
Today is going to be yummy! We embark to the coastal town of Vik with our first stop being Skool Beans, a whimsical café housed in an old school bus.
Now, let’s hike to uncover the secrets of the Viking burial site that sits at the top of a massive hill. On a clear day, you can see for miles. At the bottom of this hill on the beach is the interesting Yoda Cave. There is one reason why it’s named this.
Let’s eat! We head to the best pizza in Iceland, where the dough is baked in a traditional Icelandic lava oven, infusing each bite with a unique smoky flavor. Savor the gourmet toppings and feel the warmth of the lava fire as you dine. Now for some sweet treats and we indulge on some local crepes.
Before leaving, stroll along the expansive Reynisfjara Beach, where black sand meets crashing waves and basalt sea stacks stand tall against the horizon. Breathe in the salty sea air as you admire the dramatic coastline.
Meals included: breakfast & lunch
Day Five - Reykjavik
Strap on your hiking boots, because we’ve got a hot river to hike. Yes, we are heading for the Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River. After this brisk 45-minute hike, sit in and enjoy a nice soak from this naturally occurring thermal river.
Lunch will be served at a nearby food hall before driving back to Reykjavik. Once checked into the Eyja Guldsmeden, you’ll have some time to unwind before a late dinner at the Skál! bar.
After dinner, join us for a Midnight sunset walk along the water near the Sunset Voyager statue.
Meals included: breakfast & dinner
Day Six - Reykjavik
Enjoy an open morning for planned excursions and join us in the afternoon for a mini food & sight seeing tour. On the docket is:
- Brauð & co. for cinnamon buns
- Cafe Loki for a taste of shark and rye bread ice cream
- Walk down Rainbow Road and Laugavegur for a shopping break
- Baejarins Beztu Pylsur for hot dogs and coke
- Saegreifinn for seafood soup
You have the rest of the day to see the city and join us for drinks at Apero wine bar.
Meals included: breakfast & lunch tour
Day Seven - Reykjavik
We have a special treat today! We are doing private shopping at the Taste of Iceland food store, which has some of the best collections of Icelandic foods, salts & seasonings. This is a collection of everything you have seen & tasted throughout your trip.
We are also visiting the Sky Lagoon geothermal baths for their 7 rituals with a follow-up at Hovdenak Distillery for a spirits tour, complete with a Gin and tonic starter.
Day Eight - Reykjavik
We’ll enjoy a farewell breakfast treat together from Emilie and the Cool Kids before heading as a group to Keflavik Airport, where we’ll say our goodbyes.