fw_mut6gag1bea3.jpg

Discover the best of Iceland's vast nature, national parks, glaciers & waterfalls and Icelandic fine dining

from US $ 16070 pp

Iceland Map

Tour Highlights

Family Bakery Breakfast

Horseback Riding

Dine with Locals

Hike to Waterfalls

Dine at Local Seafood Restaura

Kayaking on the Lakes

Island Tour

about this tour

about this tour

Discover Iceland’s nature and food culture on a journey shaped by noted landscapes, thoughtful local encounters, and well regarded regional dining. Your days include hikes near Kleifarvatn Lake, time at the Glacier Lagoon, and scenic routes across the South Coast and Snæfellsnes Peninsula, with views of cliffs, waterfalls, and quiet countryside. While exploring areas like Þórsmörk Valley and Glymur Waterfall, you also enjoy a ferry trip to the Westman Islands, known for sea cliffs, coastal views, and seasonal puffin colonies. A horseback ride with local hosts adds an enjoyable way to experience rural Iceland at a slower pace. Culinary moments feature strongly throughout the itinerary, from breakfast at Sandholt Bakery to fresh seafood dinners at restaurants such as Næs and Sjávarpakkhúsið, where chefs highlight local produce and sustainable fishing practices. You also join Icelanders in their homes for a home cooked meal that reflects the traditions of the region. Evenings include relaxed dining at The Grillmarket in Reykjavík, where ingredients from farmers and fishermen shape the menu. As you travel between Hotel Rangá, Umi Hotel, the Greenhouse Hotel, and Miðhraun Lava Resort, you gain a steady sense of Iceland’s landscapes and food culture. With guided hikes, kayaking near Kirkjufell Mountain, and meals rooted in local ingredients, this itinerary offers a balanced mix of scenery, genuine hospitality, and the flavours that define Iceland.

fw_xfejvviytujm.jpg

Relax in the home of a local Icelander and enjoy a freshly prepared meal made with regional ingredients. As you share food and conversation, you’ll gain insight into daily life and traditions in a comfortable and welcoming setting. It’s a quiet moment in the journey to connect on a personal level and hear stories that reflect the pace and values of rural Iceland. After the meal, continue on to your next hotel, carrying with you a sense of the people who make this place what it is.

  • 1

    Arrival in Reykjavík

    Our private guide will be at the airport to pick you up and ensure a seamless experience. Our guide will be waiting for you in the arrival hall, holding a sign with your name on it. They will warmly welcome you, assist with luggage, and escort you to the vehicle. During the drive, our knowledgeable guide will introduce you to Iceland and answer any questions you may have. The remainder of the day is yours at leisure to relax and unwind after your flight.

    Our private guide will be at the airport to pick you up and ensure a seamless experience. Our guide will be waiting for you in the arrival hall, holding a…
  • 2

    Bakery Breakfast - Kleifarvatn Lake

    Begin the day with a traditional bakery breakfast at the Sandholt family bakery. The fourth-generation of artisan bakers have one of the oldest operating bakeries in the country, they combine quality and tradition with innovation. Following this there is a day trip to Lake Kleifarvatn, the largest lake on the Reykjanes Peninsula and the third-largest in southern Iceland, covering approximately 10 km². It is about 97 m deep and one of the deepest lakes in Iceland. The lake has diminished since year 2000 because of two major earthquakes, which probably opened up fissures at its bottom. In the sixties char fries from Lake Hlidarvatn were released into the lake and have thrived. In the southernmost area, hot water from hot springs runs into the lake but elsewhere the lake is very cold. There is a 2 hour hike arranged for the afternoon, routes may vary and usually visit a local waterfall or small mountain.

    Begin the day with a traditional bakery breakfast at the Sandholt family bakery. The fourth-generation of artisan bakers have one of the oldest operating bakeries in the country, they combine…
  • 3

    Hella: South East Coast & Glacier Lagoon

    Nestled in South East Iceland, the journey from Kirkjubæjarklaustur to Jökulsárlón, Glacier Lagoon, offers a drive through a land of extraordinary natural beauty. As you leave the quaint village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur, the road takes you through striking landscapes of black sand beaches, jagged basalt formations, and moss-covered lava fields. The impressive Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon, shaped by a winding river over millennia, is a scenic stop along the way. As you continue, the vast expanse of Vatnajökull National Park reveals Europe’s largest glacier and several glacial tongues. Svartifoss waterfall, framed by dark hexagonal basalt columns, offers a rewarding hike for those seeking more adventure. The journey culminates at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where enormous icebergs drift on calm blue waters, connecting to Diamond Beach, where shimmering ice contrasts against the black sand. This route through South East Iceland is filled with unforgettable sights and dramatic landscapes that leave a lasting impression.

    Nestled in South East Iceland, the journey from Kirkjubæjarklaustur to Jökulsárlón, Glacier Lagoon, offers a drive through a land of extraordinary natural beauty. As you leave the quaint village of…
  • 4

    Westman Islands & Næs Restaurant

    After your checkout from the hotel, your private driver will pick you up. You will take the ferry to Westman islands (Vestmannaeyjar), it´s an easy ride about 35 - 40 min. in a comfortable modern ferry. We will be exploring the best of these wonderful islands, an archipelago off the southern coast of Iceland, known for their dramatic landscapes, rich history, and unique wildlife. The cliffs are home to large puffin colonies during the summer months (April to August). You will have the opportunity to enjoy delicious food at the Næs Restaurant. The restaurant takes pride in the community and surrounding islands, foraging for wild herbs and seaweed and growing the remaining herbs onsite. They also closely collaborate with small producers, fishermen, and farmers ensure the quality and sustainability of our ingredients. By combining old Icelandic methods with new techniques, they love to create unique dining experiences. In the evening, return by ferry to the mainland to check into your hotel.

    After your checkout from the hotel, your private driver will pick you up. You will take the ferry to Westman islands (Vestmannaeyjar), it´s an easy ride about 35 - 40…
  • 5

    Þórsmörk Valley - Horseback Ride - Dinner with Locals

    Þórsmörk valley is a unique large area in the southern highlands of Iceland, filled with amazing hikes both short and easy and long and difficult - a paradise for nature and hiking enthusiasts. Around midday take a horseback ride through picturesque landscapes, experiencing the unique smooth gait of Icelandic horses. Led by friendly guides, explore nature's wonders on horseback, soaking in the tranquility. After the ride, relax with a local in their home. Enjoy a home-cooked meal, share stories, and connect with the warmth of local culture, before heading to your next hotel.

    Þórsmörk valley is a unique large area in the southern highlands of Iceland, filled with amazing hikes both short and easy and long and difficult - a paradise for nature…
  • 6

    Þingvellir National Park - Hike to Waterfall - Seafood Restaurant

    No single place epitomizes the history of Iceland and the Icelandic nation better than Þingvellir by the river Öxará. At Þingvellir - literally "Assembly Plains" - the Alþing general assembly was established around 930 and continued to convene there until 1798. Major events in the history of Iceland have taken place at Þingvellir and the place is held in high esteem by all Icelanders. Today Þingvellir is a protected national shrine. Here there will be a fun, slighlty challenging hike with breathtaking views as the reward. Glymur is Iceland´s second tallest waterfall standing at 198 M. After checking into your hotel, dinner will be at Sjávarpakkhúsið Restaurant (Seafood Packaging House) where they emphasize local ingredients and sustainability and always strive to prepare high-quality food with as little impact on the environment as possible. They work closely with fishermen, farmers, food producers, and breweries in the vicinity who provide the best possible fresh ingredients. This restaurant has received the Swan Nordic Ecolabel, an official Nordic environmental certification.

    No single place epitomizes the history of Iceland and the Icelandic nation better than Þingvellir by the river Öxará. At Þingvellir - literally "Assembly Plains" - the Alþing general assembly…
  • 7

    Snæfellsnes Peninsula - Kayaking - The Grillmarket

    The Snæfellsnes Peninsula in western Iceland is renowned for its striking landscapes, with Snæfellsjökull National Park at its western tip, dominated by the glacier-capped Snæfellsjökull Volcano. The peninsula offers a unique day of sightseeing, featuring charming farms on its southern side and small fishing villages along the breathtaking coastline to the north. Highlights include Arnarstapi, Bjarnarfoss waterfall, Búðakirkja church, Berserkjahraun lava fields, the Eldborg volcanic crater, and Hellnar. Kirkjufell, one of Iceland’s most photographed mountains, stands nearby, offering kayaking in the morning, while scenic drives provide views of Snæfellsjökull Glacier. After a day exploring fishing villages and farms, enjoy dinner at Reykjavík’s Grillmarket, a beloved local restaurant. The Grillmarket emphasizes Icelandic materials in its design and cuisine, sourcing most of its ingredients directly from local farmers. Their dishes blend Icelandic tradition with modern techniques, using fire, smoke, wood, and coal to enhance the natural flavors of the region.

    The Snæfellsnes Peninsula in western Iceland is renowned for its striking landscapes, with Snæfellsjökull National Park at its western tip, dominated by the glacier-capped Snæfellsjökull Volcano. The peninsula offers a…
  • 8

    Departure Day Reykjavík

    Your guide will advise of pick up time from the hotel for your private transfer to the airport. We hope you have enjoyed the experience. Have a safe flight!

    Your guide will advise of pick up time from the hotel for your private transfer to the airport. We hope you have enjoyed the experience. Have a safe flight!

Why Book With Us?

Selected luxury hotels that deliver exceptional service in authentic local style.

Finest Hotels

Our in-country experts have in-depth knowledge of their city and culture for an exceptional travel experience.​

Boots on the Ground​

Our experienced travel consultants are there to support you throughout your journey.​

Customer Support​

We favor local partners who share our focus on quality customer service while providing value to the local communities.​

Responsible Tourism​

FAQs

1. What are the activities at the family bakery breakfast?

One morning you start at a small, family-run bakery. You sit down to a fresh Icelandic breakfast with breads and pastries straight from the oven, see the display being set up, and get a feel for how the bakery starts its day.

2. What do we do on the Icelandic horse riding trip?

You go on a guided ride in the countryside on Icelandic horses, known for their smooth gait. The pace is easy, so you can focus on sitting comfortably, following simple instructions, and enjoying the open views around you.

3. How active are the waterfall hikes and kayaking on the lakes?

The tour includes guided hikes to waterfalls along marked trails, with time to pause at viewpoints. On another day you kayak on calm lakes under the supervision of local guides, enjoying steady paddling rather than long-distance sport.

4. What does “dine with locals” and the seafood restaurant visit involve?

On some evenings you eat in top Icelandic restaurants, trying fresh seafood and traditional lamb dishes prepared by experienced chefs. On another night you’re welcomed into a local home for a shared meal, where hosts cook for you and talk about daily life in Iceland.

5. What is included in the island tour and puffin visit?

During the island tour you travel to offshore islands known for their birdlife. In season, puffins nest on the cliffs, and you can watch them from safe viewpoints while also taking in the sea, rock formations, and quiet island setting.

Our in-country expert

Embla is our local expert in Iceland. A native of the island, she has spent her life within in its extraordinary landscapes. Raised amidst the dramatic scenery of Vatnajökull National Park, in her family's hotel, she developed a deep-rooted connection to nature. Embla's academic pursuits in travel and tourism at Reykjavik University further refined her...
Embla
Embla

How We Work

EXPLORE THIS JOURNEY

Book this trip with your choice of hotels and the option to add extra nights at the start or end of your trip.

icon-svg

CUSTOMIZE THIS JOURNEY

Create your dream trip with the assistance of Finest Journeys expert travel consultants.

CRAFT MY OWN JOURNEY

Build your own dream trip with our easy to use trip planning tools

The choice is yours and the Finest Journeys team are always here to help and our concierges and in-country teams will look after you throughout your journey from booking until return.

How We Work

1-Enquire

Fill out our form or give us a call on 1-800-227-1393 to tell us more about your trip.

2-Talk With Us

An expert will get in touch the following day to help you curate your bespoke tour itinerary.

3-Trip Creation

We'll take care of every detail to bring your dream trip to life.

4-Confirmation

You will receive an email from our team confirming all of the important details about your trip.

5-Travel With Ease

Our concierges and in-country teams will look after you throughout your journey from booking until return.

Words From our Travelers

Finest Journeys service is outstanding. In addition, Marilia is one of the best agent I have ever worked with.

Jackie

Codetic

Cynthia and Hugh had a FANTASTIC time and raved about the trip! Everything worked out well and went smoothly! They loved the hotel and Cynthia said that Finest Journeys were awesome!

Jackson

Stacey

My clients were thrilled with the itinerary and had a flawless trip. Thank you, Jean and Finest Journeys!

D. Evans

Chicago

The Wilson’s loved their trip. Your service is invaluable.

Jane

Minneapolis

Cheri and I would like to thank you again for providing an outstanding honeymoon for Kaleb and Alexandra. The kids had a wonderful time and will have stories to tell for a lifetime.

Kip

Fort Wayne

So stress free. You made it so easy for us and I loved the follow up checking in during the trip. I will be using your services again and recommending it to others.

Jonathan

Newport

    Share with us any special requests, wish-list experiences or changes we should include in your customized trip. Our expert travel consultants will then adapt this tour to your specific requirements and then send your customized itinerary for your review and approval or for further modification. At any stage in building your customized tour, you can contact your dedicated Finest Journeys travel consultant by telephone, email or online chat to discuss options or for answers to any queries.

    Flexible

    Number of Adults

    Number of Children U12

    Number of Infants U2

    Budget for my party

    ×