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Iceland in Five Days
Quiet, frosty Iceland is the opposite of our hectic, tropical home base of Hong Kong - and that is exactly why we had to go. Small on size and big on charm, we fell hard for this rugged, enchanting island nation. Though we came for the Northern Lights, we stayed for the spas - taking notes for you the whole way, natch. Read on for a fuss-free itinerary if you like your nature with a side of luxe - like we do.
Day One
Reykjavík
What to Do: It's easy to tour this compact capital in a day. You can't miss the Hallgrímskirkja, an art deco concrete cathedral - truly one of the most unique churches we've seen. The Grótta lighthouse and surrounding peninsula is a charming stop.
Where to Eat: We couldn't get enough of the delicious dishes at Fish Market (Fiskmarkaðurinn) run by female Icelandic chef Hrefna Sætran. Featuring Japanese cuisine with Icelandic ingredients, we completely overordered but proceeded to double our order the 'tartar party' anyway - a testament to the tastes. A hidden gem is Seabaron (Sægreifinn) for the most delicately divine lobster soup by the wharf.
Where to Stay: Designed by Ian Schrager, The Reykjavík EDITION will start your trip off with a bit of luxury - think roaring fireplaces, faux fur accents, warm woods, and Le Labo toiletries - complete with a rooftop bar and a spa. Situated between the Old Wharf and the irredescent Harpa Concert Hall, the location can't be beat.
Where to Shop: We are complete converts to Bioeffect, the Icelandic skincare brand based on a signature ingredient called EGF (Epidermal Growth Factor) which produced in barley which is grown in a hydroponic, geothermal-powered greenhouse in Iceland. 66North is the Icelandic go-to for cold weather essentials, and their knit hats kept us warm from day to night. A local friend also swears by the scents of local perfumery Fischersund. Their handmade birch and pine incense makes the perfect gift to bring home.
Grótta Lighthouse
Espresso martinis at The
Reykjavík EDITION
Hallgrímskirkja cathedral, Reykjavík
An Aurora evening
An Icelandic horse
Day Two
The Golden Circle
What to Do: The Golden Circle is a zone of sightseeing destinations clustered close to Reykjavík, and is known as the 'can't miss' hit list for any visitor. It is comprised of the massive waterfall Gullfoss, the location of Iceland's first parliment Þingvellir - a UNESCO World Heritage site which sits at the meeting of two tectonic plates - and the extremely active geysir Strokkur located in the geothermal area in the historic Haukadalur valley, among other sights. High on our list of Icelandic experiences was taking a ride on the famed Icelandic horses to experience their unique four-beat lateral gait, the tölt. The Golden Circle area has a wide range of stables, so no matter your route you can fit in an equestrian adventure.
Where to Stay: Hotel Geysir is family-run hotel quiet literally across the street from the geysirs, and it makes the perfect evening stopover. Like most Icelandic hotels, Hotel Geysir runs a service where the staff will call your room to wake you up for any Aural activity and is a lovley place to catch the Northern Lights.
Day Three
Jökulsárlón
What to Do: Another experience very high on our list was to explore the other-wordly landscape of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. This water body was created as icebergs break off of the Vatnajokull glacier and melt towards the Atlantic ocean. As you suit up and jump on a Zodiac boat to zip around the lagoon, you might be lucky enough spot a seal. Drenched in vivid colors from polar white to teal to turqoiuse to azure, the setting is unlike anything The melting process creates a second magical phenomenon at Diamond Beach, where huge chunks of ice drift towards the sea, breaking in the smaller pieces in the waves and washing up as clear, glowing ice crystals dotting the coastline. AI couldn't have drawn. it better!
Where to Stay: The newly opened Hotel Jókulsárlon is a very well-appointed option - especially for being in a remote location. Complete with mountain view hot tubs and sauna and the panoramic Gunna á Leiti restaurant, it is the perfect place to unwind after a day of glacier activities.
Reynisfjara beach and basalt columns
The view of Dyrhólaey
Day Four
The South Coast
What to Do: As the site of more than a few Game of Thrones shoots, the South Coast is a top stop on any first-timers list. The black sand and dramatic basalt columns of Reynisfjara beach make a stunning setting and is a favorite of both naturalists and Instagrammers alike. At the nearby lighthouse lookout, you can get a great, if windy, view of Dyrhólaey, which translates to "the hill island with the door hole" ....we assure you it is prettier than it sounds. We were mesmerized by the Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, and we are sure you will be too - as long as you pack your poncho!
Where to Eat: We did not expect to be ordering Thai curry in Iceland, but we must admit it was a welcome surprise! Set in a historical house, Suður-Vík is a quirky and cozy stop on your South Coast journey, with a super fresh menu and coastal charm.
Day Five
The Blue Lagoon
What to Do: This one is easy! You're here for the therapeutic geothermal seawaters of the lagoon. You should be doing nothing but soaking, steaming, and relaxing - unless it's a face mask or massage of course.
Where to Stay: This one is also easy! The Retreat at the Blue Lagoon is a luxurious award-winning spa property which abuts the lagoon thus creating a private mini blue lagoon for its guests. Complete with a handful of restaurants, from robe-friendly spa cafe to a Michelin-starred jewel, there is literally no reason to leave the resort. After a very chilly, very busy trip - you deserve it.
A view from The Retreat the Blue Lagoon
A dip in the geothermal waters
