About your itinerary
?
Don't forget that if something isn't quite right we can make changes to the itinerary.
As promised, I am delighted to enclose your finalised itinerary, with the additional night at The Retreat Hotel with the upgraded Lagoon View Junior Suite in tact, as well as taking one night out of Reykjavik, and adding it to your South Coast stay!
To confirm, I will need your full names & DOBs as they appear on your passports and I can get everything underway. Congrats guys, and thank you so much for booking with me. I will be on hand every step of the way if there is anything additional you require from me.
Best travels,
Maria Gardner 
Your Itinerary In Detail
?
This itinerary has been tailor-made for you. No two itineraries are the same and we are always able to make changes if something isn't quite right.
Wednesday 25th December 2024
Flight on FI 852
Flight on FI 852
| From | To |
|---|---|
| Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) |
Keflavik International Airport (KEF) |
| Departs | Arrives |
| 25-Dec-2024 18:30:00 | 26-Dec-2024 06:40:00 |
| Airline | Cabin |
| Icelandair | Economy |
Thursday 26th December 2024
Welcome to Iceland
Welcome to Iceland
Welcome to Iceland!
Hitting headlines, topping bucket lists, wooing nature lovers and dazzling increasing numbers of visitors – there seems no end to the talents of this breathtaking northern destination.
An underpopulated island marooned near the top of the globe, Iceland is, literally, a country in the making. It's a vast volcanic laboratory where mighty forces shape the earth: geysers gush, mudpots gloop, ice-covered volcanoes rumble and glaciers cut great pathways through the mountains. Its supercharged splendour seems designed to remind visitors of their utter insignificance in the greater scheme of things. And it works a treat: some crisp clean air, an eyeful of the cinematic landscapes, and everyone is transfixed.
It's the power of Icelandic nature to turn the prosaic into the extraordinary. A dip in a pool becomes a soak in a geothermal lagoon; a casual stroll can transform into a trek across a glittering glacier; and a quiet night of camping may mean front-row seats to the aurora borealis’ curtains of light, or the soft, pinkish hue of the midnight sun. Iceland has a transformative effect on people too – its sagas turned brutes into poets, and its stories of huldufólk (hidden people) may make believers out of sceptics. Here you'll find some of the world's highest concentrations of dreamers, authors, artists and musicians, all fuelled by their surrounds.
Car Rental from to Reykjavik Downtown Office
Car Rental from to Reykjavik Downtown Office
Upon your arrival into Iceland, you will be ready to collect your Car Rental for the first part of your trip. You will collect a Hyundai I20 or similar with the following inclusions:
- Automatic Transmission
- Fully Extensive Protection
- Unlimited Mileage
- VAT
Drive from Keflavik Airport to The Retreat Hotel
Drive from Keflavik Airport to The Retreat Hotel
After picking up your car, make your way to The Retreat Hotel, just 30 mins drive in moderate traffic via Reykjanesbraut/Route 41 and Grindavíkurvegur.
The Retreat at Blue Lagoon for 3 nights
The Retreat at Blue Lagoon for 3 nights
Featuring a subterranean spa, a geothermal lagoon and a restaurant that re-imagines Iceland’s culinary traditions, this 62-suite luxury hotel is encircled by the Blue Lagoon’s mineral-rich waters.
Located in the heart of an extraordinary volcanic frontier, the Retreat offers all guests unlimited access to the Retreat Spa, the Retreat Lagoon, the Blue Lagoon and Blue Lagoon Ritual, as well as skincare amenities. Designed to erase the boundaries between hospitality and well-being, each suite becomes the foundation of a relaxing, rejuvenating and exploratory experience.
With arms wide open, staying at The Retreat at Blue Lagoon holds some exceptional perks. From a la carte breakfast and dinners, access to both the Blue Lagoon & Blue Lagoon Ritual, plus the Retreat Spa & Lagoon, to afternoon Icelandic coffee in the lounge and so much more!
Your room: Lagoon View Junior Suite
Spacious. Cozy. Simple. Elegant. With concept and design inspired by the serene blue waters and multi-coloured lava that lie just beyond the floor-to-ceiling windows, your Lagoon View Junior Suite creates harmony between a luxurious interior and a sublime exterior. Your suite offers a great view of the surrounding lagoon.
Saturday 28th December 2024
Golden Circle Adventure Tour | Private
Golden Circle Adventure Tour | Private
Your incredible day starts between 8 & 9 am from your hotel, where you will meet your guide & driver, ready to start your journey to the wonders of Thingvellir National Park. Here, you will witness one of the world's most spectacular sights, The Golden Circle. En route, enjoy sipping your coffee whilst travelling through the rural prehistoric lands of Iceland, capturing the astonishing views she brings.
Upon arrival for your first stop at the Golden Circle, our guide will welcome you to this incredible site, steeped in history, folklore and surrounded by amazing geology where it stands between the North American & Eurasian tectonic plates.
Here at Thingvellir, you can discover the roots of this island’s formation and how Medieval Icelanders created its democratic society. The area consists of long stretches of lava rock, and many volcanoes surround the park, rising above Thingvallavatn, Iceland's largest natural lake. Beneath the cracks of the earth, you will notice clear open water, which makes it perfect for those brave enough to snorkel through the freezing cold to discover a whole new world between these two astonishing plates.
After taking in all that history and the amazing views, it is time to be whisked off with your guide on a 50-minute scenic and volcanic drive through the wilderness of Iceland, spotting steaming vents and chimneys along the way before arriving at the next Golden Circle hotspot, the Geysir Geothermal Area.
Witness the heated waters of the most active geysir 'Strokkur' erupting water from the depths every 10 minutes or so, reaching heights of 20-40 metres in the air. It is a truly remarkable sight to behold, and a very rewarding and memorable experience that will stick with you for a lifetime. This stop will give you the chance to catch some gorgeous souvenirs and grab a snack before hitting the road for a short time once more to your final stop on the Golden Circle route, Gullfoss Waterfall.
This powerful waterfall is located in a plunging, ancient valley and tumbles down two drops, from an overall height of 32 meters (105 ft).
The minute you step out of your car, you can hear the breathtaking power of the water from this awe-inspiring waterfall and there is no doubt you will want to get the cameras out and share this mesmerizing hotspot with the world! Summer is the best time to visit this iconic waterfall, as this is when the water is at its heaviest and loudest!
After all this natural eye-catching scenery, you are sure to be feeling peckish at this point, so it will be time to catch some lunch before the next voyage on your adventure to the popular Icelandic crater lake, Kerid Crater. Known as the eye of the world, Kerid Crater is inside of a volcanic caldera and surrounded by rare red volcanic rock. It is easy to become spellbound by its big blue eye with all the beauty circling this fascinating lake.
After lunch, it will be time to head back to your hotel for an evening of leisure.
Sunday 29th December 2024
Drive from The Retreat Hotel to Bubble Hotel, Ölvisholt
Drive from The Retreat Hotel to Bubble Hotel, Ölvisholt
After an early rise, make your way across the amazing countryside of Iceland to the Bubble Hotel, ready for your stunning South Coast Tour and one night under the stars and hopefully the Aurora Borealis. The drive takes approx 1hr 44mins in moderate traffic.
South Coast Tour with Overnight Stay in a Bubble
South Coast Tour with Overnight Stay in a Bubble
As you arrive at The Bubble Iceland location, park your car and meet your guide as well as the rest of your group for this wonderful excursion! Enjoy fabulous lux SUV transport, the same SUVs that are used for US presidents over the decades, meaning ounces of comfort!
SELJALANDFOSS WATERFALL
The first stop on the tour is at Seljalandsfoss waterfall. If you’re feeling adventurous be sure to walk the steep staircase to view the gorgeous waterfall from behind. This is also a great photo opportunity! At 65 meters high, this waterfall has breathtaking views of roaring glacier waters and the birds that call this place home. And do be sure to bring along your raincoat if you plan to venture behind this waterfall! The mist coming from the falling water is sure to wet your clothes through, but this is also a great way to create a rainbow effect so keep an eye out.
SKOGAFOSS WATERFALL
The next stop along this tour is Skogafoss, only a mere 30 kilometres from Seljalandsfoss right off the main Ring Road. At a whopping 60 meters high and 25 meters wide, you can feel the power. You will have the choice to walk up close and personal or take the 60-meter staircase to the top and view the falls from above. Either way, you are sure to get some amazing views. If you choose the up-close option, be sure to protect yourself and your camera from the massive mist cloud that forms at the bottom of the waterfall. Also here, you will see the many bird species flying around and nesting on the cliffs, but also you may see a stray sheep or two that can wander over from the nearby farm.
REYNISFJARA BLACK SAND BEACH
Moving away from the waterfalls, the tour will make it’s way further down the coast to Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach located in the small coastal town, Vik. Known for it’s black-colored sand and ginormous basalt stacks, you are sure to get an amazing photo here. Though you may not first think of Iceland when you think of going to the beach, in 1991, National Geographic voted Reynisfjara as one of the Top 10 non-tropical beaches to visit on Earth. It is not hard to notice the rocky basalt sea stacks, named Reynisdrangar. Just around the corner from here you can view more ragged edged cave like areas where the high tide water used to rush in. Please be aware of the strong current and the waves most referred to as “sneaker waves” which is a nod to their ability to rush in out of nowhere knocking people to the ground.
After an amazing day tour, you will be invited back to the Bubble where you will enjoy an incredible night under the stars.
The Bubble Hotel for 1 night
The Bubble Hotel for 1 nights
Dubbed the “5 Million Star Hotel”, it’s easy to see why the Aurora Bubble is worth a visit. Guests can experience the beauty of nature, all from inside the comfort of a literal see-through bubble.
Whether you choose to sleep under five million stars in the winter or summer, all five Aurora Bubbles are fit for all times of the year.
Bubbles include a bed and heat (during the winter), and…that’s pretty much it. Need to use the bathroom? Don’t worry! Access to a nearby small house is included and has a toilet, shower, and kitchen for guests.
Are you worried about wildlife? I mean, this is the forest…rest assured, bubbles are in a private farming/forest area, and visitors need not worry! Just lay back, relax and enjoy the gorgeous view above.
Your room: Private Bubble
Immerse yourself into the wilderness covered by the transparent shelter of your Private Bubble. Gaze into the night sky and hope for clear starry moments together, or manifest for that Aurora Realis (Northern Lights) in the midnight sky.
Your double-sized bed is cosy with heat included for a warm and comfy night's sleep! Kitchen & WCs/Shower Rooms are accessible through a shared area during your stay.
Disclaimer: Please be advised, the Bubble Hotel location on the South Coast is set upon a steep hill and is not recommended for those with impaired walking abilities.
Monday 30th December 2024
Drive from The Bubble Hotel to UMI Hotel
Drive from The Bubble Hotel to UMI Hotel
After an incredible night, it will be time to head to back towards the South Coast in your car, for a fantastic three night stay at the UMI Hotel. Take the just over 1hr drive via via Þjóðvegur in moderate traffic.
UMI Hotel for 3 nights
UMI Hotel for 3 nights
UMI Hotel is located by one of the most beautiful mountain range in the country, and only about 140 km away from Reykjavik and 2 km of the Ring Road (Road NR. 1). The location offers a strong connection to nature that allows guests to experience the peace and quiet of the Icelandic countryside.
The hotel offers a first class restaurant with a unique view of the Westman Islands and the southern coastline, as well as a lounge bar with a view of the famous subglacial volcano Eyjafjallajökull and the beautiful mountain terrain surrounding it. Next to the hotel the river Svaðbælisá peacefully flows by. The starlit skies and northern lights certainly won’t let anyone down over the winter months.
Your room: Classic Double with Sea View
Your elegantly designed Classic Double offers both a feeling of nature and comfort as the guiding light. With a plush double bed and your ensuite bathroom as well as a beautiful sea view, it offers a cosy and warm stay.
Tuesday 31st December 2024
Katla Ice Cave & Jokulsarlon Boat Experience | Private
Katla Ice Cave & Jokulsarlon Boat Experience | Private
This morning after breakfast, you will be greeted by your guide at your hotel, ready for a special day to the Katla Ice Cave and Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Upon arrival, put on your provided crampons and helmet and prepare to walk inside a natural ice cave. Your guide leads the way into this natural wonder while filling you in on all the fascinating details about the glacier and how the ice cave was formed.
The view inside the Ice Cave is truly spectacular the combination of the colors of the ice, you will get the chance to see some amazing black ice as well as some blue ice features. The Katla Ice Cave is truly unique. The ice cave is located in Kötlujökull Glacier which is an outlet glacier of Mýrdalsjökull Glacier. Underneath the glacier waits the mighty volcano Katla where the both the glacier and the ice cave takes their name from.
After your tour of the cave, you will have some time for lunch in Vik (paid locally) before driving the 2.5hr drive up to Fjallsárlón Iceberg Lagoon for a truly memorable Ice Lagoon experience.
Upon arrival at the Fjallsárlón iceberg lagoon, you will meet your Zodiac boat guide. You will gear yourself up in the overall suit and live west provided for the boat ride. When ready you will board the Zodiac boat with your guide and sail out towards the icebergs. This will be your private boat ride. You will be sailing among the icebergs and towards the ice wall. After the boat ride at Fjallsárlón iceberg lagoon, you will drive to the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon for some more breathtaking moments of watching floating icebergs from the shore.
This day will be incredible and a great spot to reminisce before you head back to your hotel for a relaxing evening.
Thursday 2nd January 2025
Drive from UMI Hotel to Reykjavik
Drive from UMI Hotel to Reykjavik
After an amazing couple of nights, it will be time to head to the capital to bring the NY in. Start your car and begin the 2hr drive back to Reykjavik via Þjóðvegur where you will drop off your car at the Downtown Office, before making your own way to the Borg Hotel.
Borg Hotel for 2 nights
Borg Hotel for 2 nights
Dignified and imposing, Hotel Borg overlooks the beautiful square of Austurvöllur, in the heart of Reykjavík, across from Althingi, the Icelandic parliament and the cathedral. The Borg, which has become one of Reykjavik’s landmarks, is conveniently located within walking distance of variety of restaurants, businesses, souvenir shops, art galleries and specialty shops. The hotel's 99 rooms and suites, with Art Deco style throughout, are elegantly appointed yet offer an extensive array of modern amenities.
Your room: Double Room
The double rooms at Hotel Borg are elegantly decorated in art deco style and equipped with modern amenities to ensure a pleasant stay.
Northern Lights Jeep Experience | Semi-Private
Northern Lights Jeep Experience | Semi-Private
After arriving into the city and settling into your hotel, this evening you will be ready to witness the incredible mother nature phenomenon that is the Aurora Borealis.
The elders say that the harsher the night‘s frost, the more intense the colours will be. Swirling and swaying overhead, displays are usually greenish-yellow but white, red and pink lights can also appear.
Your Jeep will collect you and your small group from a central location in the city at 8PM, ready to head out into the darkness on the search for the Northern Lights. Your expert guide will provide you with a fantastic commentary about past sightings in search for new ones, as you drive through the night over the course of 3-4 hours.
I am keeping all my fingers crossed that you are both successful at seeing this amazing light in the sky, and you can enjoy the view with the included hot chocolate and volcanic vodka! After an amazing experience, you will be driven back into the city, where you will be dropped off back at the central location, where you can make your way back to your hotel.
***Please note; The Northern Lights SuperJeep Tour is dependent on the weather and sky conditions and we reserve the right to cancel at any time. If the evening tour goes ahead and the Northern Lights are not seen, the team will offer you to try once again for FREE!
The free try never expires as long as they are running the hunt for the Northern Lights but the FREE try will always be pending on availability, if they need to cancel all your nights due to bad weather and you did not do the tour at all, a full refund will be issued to us, which will then be forwarded to you (this will not apply if you did the tour and did not see the northern lights, or if your second attempt is cancelled due to bad weather).
Friday 3rd January 2025
Optional: The Sky Lagoon | 7-Step Ritual
Optional: The Sky Lagoon | 7-Step Ritual
Optional Tour
Price Not Included
This afternoon, you have the option to enjoy the beautiful Sky Lagoon. I know that you are both not huge spa-goers, but just in case you fancy a little unwinding, I have added this as an option.
Only recently opened to those who adore geothermal baths and being at one with nature, the incredible Sky Lagoon immerses you in warmth as the dramatic North Atlantic Ocean stretches out before you. Feel yourself relax and unwind as you take in the dazzling sunsets and moody skies.
Your private transfer will take you over from the Lava Tunnel to the lagoon for a stunning afternoon of pampering. Upon arriving, you would both to receive 2 x Sky Passes, which include your admission, the 7-Step Sky Ritual, and private changing facilities with Sky's signature amenities.
Sky Lagoon feels like a natural oasis, far removed from anything urban or human. Cliff walls, grottoes, and coves are all designed to make the surroundings both beautiful and natural, and the dark textures highlight the Lagoon’s tranquillity.
You will be given the opportunity to take your relaxation deeper with a unique seven-step Ritual that is also included in your excursion – perfect for nourishing your senses and energizing your body, mind and soul. After your 2-hour stay, you can take a pew in their Sky Cafe, and admire the incredible experience you've just been present within, before taking your private transfer back to the city with drop off outside your hotel.
Saturday 4th January 2025
Transfer from Borg Hotel to Keflavik International Airport
Transfer from Borg Hotel to Keflavik International Airport
After a stunning time, it will be the end of your trip. Your private vehicle will collect you from your hotel and take you back to the Airport in enough time for your flight home.
Flight on FI 853
Flight on FI 853
| From | To |
|---|---|
| Keflavik International Airport (KEF) |
Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) |
| Departs | Arrives |
| 04-Jan-2025 16:45:00 | 04-Jan-2025 17:20:00 |
| Airline | Cabin |
| Icelandair | Economy |
What's Included
Your itinerary includes
- Round-trip International flights from Chicago to Keflavik with Icelandair
- Checked baggage
- Economy seating
- Car Rental from 26th Dec – 2nd Jan
- Automatic Transmission
- Fully Extensive Protection
- 4/5* Accommodation as listed
- All breakfasts included (except Bubble Hotel)
- Private & Semi-Private Tours as listed
- Private Transfer from The Borg to Keflavik
- 24/7 emergency concierge service
Your itinerary excludes
- Lunches & Dinners
- Optional Tours
- Spa Treatments
- Additional excursions not mentioned
- Travel insurance
- Resort Fees / City Taxes
- Visas (if applicable)
- Gratuities
Important Information
Travel Advice
It is important to seek independent and up-to-date advice when travelling to any foreign country. Many of our customers ask us to keep them up-to-date on the existing legal position regarding LGBT rights in the country to which they are travelling. You can find up-to-date details on our website under the country which you are travelling to. They are provided as a guide only and laws can change frequently. You should seek advice from the relevant authorities and embassies before travel (if applicable).
Travel Insurance and Terms and Conditions
It is a condition of booking with Out Of Office that you have adequate insurance cover for your trip at the time of booking. Please also ensure you have referred to our terms and conditions which can be found at www.outofoffice.com/terms-and-conditions. Please note that as each booking is tailor-made for you we only confirm the itinerary once we have received a deposit. There is a small chance that availability on some items quoted may change. If this is the case we will book similar accommodation and let you know.