THE
NORTH
Northern Iceland is renowned for offering some of the most favorable winter conditions in the entire country. Situated in the northern reaches, this region boasts great snow conditions, paving the way for an array of winter activities limited only by your imagination. Our journey will lead you through the captivating landscapes of northern Iceland, inviting you to throw on snowshoes and fully immerse yourself in the enchanting snowy scenery. Along the way, you'll encounter picturesque waterfalls, unique terrain, and conquer volcanoes.
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This adventure also introduces you to the joys of cross-country skiing (no prior experience needed). Glide gracefully through the winter landscapes, discovering the art of embracing the opportunities and fun that winter has to offer.
This trip is designed for individuals in good physical condition, ready to tackle longer hikes in winter's embrace. Navigating snow-covered landscapes and confronting the elements makes this excursion an exhilarating choice for those seeking an active trip and escape from the crowds.
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Whether you are an experienced winter enthusiast or a novice (as long as you’re in good physical shape), rest assured that all snowshoeing and cross-country skiing activities will be tailored to your abilities and experience. Join us in the North for a one-of-a-kind adventure where you'll challenge yourself amidst the winter elements, knowing that the rewards will be immeasurable.
TRIP OVERVIEW
ITINERARY
Akureyri is the "capital of the north", being one of the largest towns in Iceland outside of the ReykjavÃk area.
Akureyri is the "capital of the north", being one of the largest towns in Iceland outside of the ReykjavÃk area.
DAY 1
FLY TO AKUREYRI
Following your hotel pickup in Reykjavík, you will be transported to the domestic airport for a flight to Akureyri in the north. Upon your arrival in Akureyri, you'll have the remainder of the day to discover the charms of this pretty town.
TOTAL DRIVING
10 minutes
TOTAL HIKING
No hiking
TOTAL SKIING
No skiing
A large conical peak, a very iconic mountain in Öxnadalur
A large conical peak, a very iconic mountain in Öxnadalur
DAY 2
HRAUNDRANGAR
Hraundrangi, a magnificent conical peak, dominates the Öxnadalur valley as a prominent feature of the awe-inspiring Drangafjall mountain ridge. Beneath these majestic peaks, we'll equip ourselves with snowshoes and embark on a scenic hike leading us towards Hraunsvatn Lake, nestled just beneath the dramatic Hraundrangi cliffs. This journey will grant us fantastic views of the surrounding mountains and the valley below.
TOTAL DRIVING
1 hour
TOTAL HIKING
8 km (5 mi)
TOTAL SKIING
No skiing
Looking over small part of Mývatn, with the surroundings covered in snow
Looking over small part of Mývatn, with the surroundings covered in snow
DAY 3
MÝVATN
In the morning, we bid farewell to Akureyri and set our course for the picturesque Lake Mývatn region. En route, we'll pause to admire the enchanting Goðafoss waterfall. Upon reaching Mývatn, the remainder of the day will be dedicated to exploring the area. Our itinerary includes visits to Dimmu Borgir, a captivating lava field adorned with incredible lava formations. We'll also ascend the imposing Hverfell crater and embark on a few shorter hikes along the shores of Lake Mývatn before arriving at our accommodation for the next two nights.
TOTAL DRIVING
1,5 hour
TOTAL HIKING
1-2 hours
TOTAL SKIING
No skiing
Snowshoeing is a great way to traverse the winter landscapes in Iceland
Snowshoeing is a great way to traverse the winter landscapes in Iceland
DAY 4
SNOWSHOEING
Our day will be dedicated to snowshoeing in the Mývatn vicinity. The specific trail for our hike will be selected based on weather conditions, snow quality, and the capabilities of the group. In this winter wonderland, there are numerous great options for snowshoeing, making it an ideal way to fully immerse ourselves in the wintry landscape.
TOTAL DRIVING
1 hour
TOTAL HIKING
3-6 hours
TOTAL SKIING
No skiing
The largest bird cliffs in Iceland, home to millions of birds each summer.
The largest bird cliffs in Iceland, home to millions of birds each summer.
DAY 5
SIGLUFJÖRÐUR
We say our goodbyes to Mývatn and set our course for Tröllaskagi, known as the Troll Peninsula. Our destination is the charming town of Siglufjörður, cradled within one of the northern fjords and embraced by towering, dramatic mountains. Over the next two days, we'll dedicate our time to honing our cross-country skiing skills. The region offers a good selection of excellent cross-country skiing trails. Upon our arrival in the afternoon, we'll gear up and become acquainted with the art of cross-country skiing.
TOTAL DRIVING
2,5 hours
TOTAL HIKING
No hiking
TOTAL SKIING
1-2 hours
Cross-country skiing can be both a great exercise and a perfect way to explore the countryside in winter time.
Cross-country skiing can be both a great exercise and a perfect way to explore the countryside in winter time.
DAY 6
CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING
A full day awaits us for cross-country skiing in the Siglufjörður region and its scenic surroundings. Our selection of the ideal cross-country skiing location will be contingent on the participants' skills and the prevailing weather conditions. It's possible we may opt for two distinct locations, one for the morning and another for the afternoon, to make the most of the day's outdoor adventures.
TOTAL DRIVING
1 hour
TOTAL HIKING
No hiking
TOTAL SKIING
3-6 hours
Aerial view of HallgrÃmskirkja, in downtown ReykjavÃk, during winter.
Aerial view of HallgrÃmskirkja, in downtown ReykjavÃk, during winter.
DAY 7
FLY BACK TO REYKJAVÍK
Having satisfied our cross-country skiing cravings over the past few days, it's time to make our way back to Akureyri. Once we arrive in Akureyri, we'll have the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the newly established, geothermally heated Skógarböðin, also known as The Forest Lagoon. This is the perfect way to conclude our trip, providing relaxation and relief for our muscles before catching your flight back to Reykjavík.
TOTAL DRIVING
1,5 hours
TOTAL HIKING
No hiking
TOTAL SKIING
No skiing