An Icelandic Adventure: Nature, Food, and Wellness in the Land of Fire and Ice
There are some places that manage to exceed every expectation, and Iceland is firmly on that list. I recently spent a few unforgettable days in this Nordic wonderland, and from the moment I landed in Reykjavík, it felt like a true adventure—one filled with dramatic landscapes, mouth-watering cuisine, and moments of pure relaxation.
An Icelandic Adventure: Nature, Food, and Wellness in the Land of Fire and Ice
There are some places that manage to exceed every expectation, and Iceland is firmly on that list. I recently spent a few unforgettable days in this Nordic wonderland, and from the moment I landed in Reykjavík, it felt like a true adventure—one filled with dramatic landscapes, mouth-watering cuisine, and moments of pure relaxation.
Whirlwind Beginnings in Reykjavík
Touching down in Iceland’s capital just after 6pm, I was met
with a warm and seamless welcome—a reminder that Icelandic hospitality is as
genuine as the landscapes are wild. After a swift hotel check-in, hunger led me
straight to the harbour. My first choice, the much-talked-about Le Kock, was
bustling with energy, so I opted for the next-door spot and soon found myself
enjoying perfectly crisp fish, golden chips, and an ice-cold Icelandic beer. It
was the perfect introduction to Reykjavík’s laid-back food scene.
With little time to linger, I was soon wrapped up in layers
and setting off on a Northern Lights cruise. The night sky was incredibly
clear—constellations like Orion, The Plough, and even the Seven Sisters shone
brightly, with Jupiter gleaming beside the moon. The aurora itself remained
elusive, but the sense of anticipation, bundled against the chill on the open
deck, was unforgettable. As a bonus, the cruise offers a “try again if you
don’t see them” guarantee, so I know I’ll have to return!
Exploring the Golden Circle and Icelandic Geothermal Magic
My first full day began with a hearty Icelandic
breakfast—fuel for a classic Golden Circle adventure. Arriving at Þingvellir
National Park before sunrise, I admired sweeping views across the ancient rift
valley, then moved on to feel the spray of Gullfoss, frozen in the depths of
winter (and honestly, the coldest I’ve felt in years!).
Warming up, I headed to the Geysir geothermal area. There, hot springs punctuated the snowy landscape with regular eruptions, and I savoured a warming bowl of traditional Icelandic lamb soup—a true taste of comfort in the Arctic air.
A highlight of the day was soaking in the Secret Lagoon, Iceland’s oldest thermal pool, where steaming waters hover at 38°C year-round. Braving the 6°C cold plunge was a test of willpower (a little cursing may have escaped the first time!), but the reward was a sense of invigoration that lasted long after I left.
As the sun set, I visited Kerið crater, its icy lake ringed by fiery red volcanic rock—a dramatic finish to an action-packed day.
Slowing Down: Food, Wellness, and Reykjavik’s Flavours
After a whirlwind start, I decided to slow the pace. At Hlemmur Mathöll food hall, just minutes from my hotel, I treated myself to a perfectly cooked rib eye steak, a glass of local craft beer, and the quiet comfort of a good book. Sometimes, the true luxury of travel is simply sitting still and savouring the atmosphere.
The following day was devoted to self-care and Icelandic wellness at the iconic Sky Lagoon. The Saman Pass offers guests the signature 7-step ritual: starting with a lagoon soak, followed by an icy cold plunge (not for the faint-hearted!), a relaxing steam bath, exfoliation with a mineral body scrub, a rejuvenating shower, time in a sauna overlooking the crashing Atlantic, and a final cooling mist. It’s an experience that left me feeling both refreshed and completely in tune with my surroundings.
A Reykjavik Food Adventure
Later that day, a food tour introduced me to the very heart of Reykjavik’s culinary scene. With a local guide, I sampled tender Icelandic lamb, delicate arctic char, the city’s iconic hot dog, and even rye bread ice cream (unexpectedly delicious!). And yes, I finished with a daring bite of fermented shark—an Icelandic rite of passage, if not one I’m eager to repeat!
What struck me most was the warmth and generosity behind every dish and every story. Reykjavik’s food scene isn’t just about what’s on the plate: it’s about heritage, pride, and sharing a sense of place with every visitor.
Ready to Explore?
Whether you’re drawn by breathtaking scenery, soothing geothermal pools, or the simple pleasure of discovering new flavours, Iceland has something for every adventurer and every soul seeking rest. If you’re dreaming of your own Icelandic escape, I’d love to share personalised tips, hidden spots, and recommendations tailored just for you.
Let’s craft your perfect Icelandic itinerary—one filled with wonder, wellness, and the kinds of memories that last a lifetime.
Contact your me today to start planning your own magical journey.
020 3292 0515
sarah.coombes@mytc.com
