100% customisable travel idea

In the Intimacy of the Great Outdoors Outstanding Villas in and Around Iceland

Iceland - Thingvellir - Mývatn - Reykjavík

Home Sweet Home

From $6000 to $8200 per person for 8 days Price depends on departure city, season, accomodation types and selected activities

Itinerary highlights

  • After exploring the legendary Golden Circle, take the road and head north to discover a more intimate side of Iceland, all the way to Lake Mývatn
  • Your private villas in Thingvellir and Mývatn: Exclusive accommodation where you can feel at home - only better - right in the heart of nature
  • Private tour of Katla ice cave, private chefs at home, afternoon tea with a view and, to top it all off, a cosy apartment stay in Reykjavík: It’s all planned out!
  • Carbon absorption, Concierge service, rental car, mobile app: the extra Voyageurs touch
There are destinations, like Iceland, that can be approached in thousands of different ways. Bit by bit or all at once, with small steps or giant strides, by letting yourself go with the flow or by tackling things head-on. There are as many different trips to Iceland as there are travellers. This trip - just one of the many to Iceland - is not just any trip. It’s ajourney designed to recreate there what you love here, bringing a touch of the spirit of your home to a place thousands of miles away. The everyday comfort you need, with space both for yourself and for others; the reassuring feeling of coming back to the same place each evening; the pleasure of unpacking your bags, sitting down, stoking the embers in the fireplace and not being on the move all the time. That doesn´t mean doing nothing, though! Being conveniently located - in Thingvellir - you can easily set out and explore the Golden Circle and its wonders at your own pace. Short, hassle-free trips invite you to discover the site of Iceland’s first parliament (founded in 930), Lake Thingvallavatn, the impressive Strokkur geyser and the legendary Gullfoss waterfall. Halfway through, we’ll embark on an epic, day-long road trip, travelling along the northern coast of the island until we reach a more remote region: Lake Mývatn. The journey itself is a voyage of discovery, taking you past fjords, waterfalls and picturesque villages. On your route, you’ll see, among other things: Borgarnes and the Reykholt valley, Blönduós on the Skagi Peninsula - where you’ll want to stop for lunch - then the charming town of Akureyri, before finally reaching Mývatn. There, volcanic landscapes of breathtaking beauty await you, which never stop smoking, steaming and bubbling. The elements seem to be more intense here than elsewhere. Once again, you’ll find yourself at home in a place of comfort that gives you the space you need to absorb what you have seen, touched and felt. The trip ends in Reykjavík. The capital, a wonderful stop-over before returning home, unfolds at your feet with its multicoloured wooden houses, delightful gastronomic gems, shops selling local wool products, lively bars and unparalleled hospitality.

Your Trip

As you can imagine, accommodation plays a key, if not central, role in this trip: you’ll enjoy coming back in the evening just as much as heading out in the morning.. When it comes to getting around, comfort is guaranteed at all times thanks to private transfers and a 4x4 rental car, giving you the freedom to explore both legendary roads and lesser-known detours off the beaten track - with the help of a mobileapp and a personalised itinerary. Because Iceland so often speaks for itself, we didn´t want to overload your schedule. Instead,we´ve included a few special moments: a private tour of the Katla ice cave, afternoon tea at one of the capital’s best pâtisseries and dinner at a renowned Nordic restaurant where a table has been reserved for you. Any last-minute wishes or minor setbacks will be handled in real time by our Concierge on site. In close cooperation with your travel expert, our Concierge can also help tailor your trip to your preferences, even as it unfolds.

Your private villas

In Thingvellir
There is no better welcome to Iceland than this beautiful grass-roofed villa nestled (quite literally) on the shores of Lake Thingvallavatn. More than just a house, it is a theatre where the incredible landscapes of this part of Iceland take centre stage every day. The interiors open wide onto it all, letting in both light and dreams. The décor is sublime (designer furniture, leather, wood), the atmosphere warm and elegant, and the comfort exceptional. Five rooms ensure privacy and cosy nights for guests. Share moments of togetherness in the large living room, on the terrace, in the hot tub, around the barbecue or in the incredibly welcoming kitchen. All while facing the lake, of course.

In Mývatn
Few houses are as well located as this one, which is practically dipping its toes into the waters of Lake Mývatn, around which many birds live. And for those who can’t resist the call of the Icelandic outdoors, the interiors are so cosy that you’ll be more than happy to come back inside. The various warm and welcoming spaces have been tastefully decorated using high-quality materials. The décor has been designed with a fresh, rustic, yet modern feel, using subtle tones that blend together beautifully with the lush green surroundings. The balcony and barbecue are perfect for enjoying time together outside, while the kitchen and cosy living room are ideal for relaxing inside in the warmth. Nearby, there is a natural geothermal lagoon - a close relative of the famous Blue Lagoon…
Islande © Daniel Farò
Islande © Daniel Farò
Thingvellir - Islande © Droits Reservés
Thingvellir - Islande © Droits Reservés
Islande © Marc Zimmer Unsplash
Islande © Marc Zimmer Unsplash
Myvatn - Islande © Droits réservés
Myvatn - Islande © Droits réservés
Lac de Myvatn -  Nordurland-Eystra - Islande © Laetitia Georges
Lac de Myvatn - Nordurland-Eystra - Islande © Laetitia Georges
Islande © spenser sembrat - unsplash
Islande © spenser sembrat - unsplash
Reykjavik - Islande © Keongdagreat / stock.adobe.com
Reykjavik - Islande © Keongdagreat / stock.adobe.com
Islande © Holly Standring Unsplash
Islande © Holly Standring Unsplash
Islande © Karsten Winegeart Unsplash
Islande © Karsten Winegeart Unsplash
Thingvellir - Islande © Droits réservés
Thingvellir - Islande © Droits réservés
Thingvellir - Islande © parys/Getty Images/iStockphoto
Thingvellir - Islande © parys/Getty Images/iStockphoto
Thingvellir - Islande © Droits réservés
Thingvellir - Islande © Droits réservés
Islande Lac Myvatn © Miles Rothoerl Pexels
Islande Lac Myvatn © Miles Rothoerl Pexels

Itinerary

100% customisable for you

On arrival at the airport, you’ll be fast-tracked through security, collect your rental car and drive to Thingvellir. You’ll stay for three nights in a green-roofed villa set right on the shore of Lake Thingvallavatn. From the interior there are wide open views onto the wonderful landscapes of this part of the country, letting in plenty of light. The decor is a sublime combination of designer furniture, leather and wood, creating a warm, elegant atmosphere while providing optimum comfort. There are five bedrooms, which will ensure that you have privacy as well as a restful night's sleep. You can spend time together in the large living room, on the terrace, in the hot tub, around the barbecue or in the very sociable kitchen. Meanwhile you never have to take your eyes off the lake.

To see and do: Hike in Thingvellir National Park, a significant location in Icelandic history, at the heart of the Golden Circle. This is the former site of the Icelandic National Parliament, the Althing, founded in 930. Among other things, you can see a beautiful waterfall and numerous gorges, including Almannagjá, where there are stunning views over the valley and Lake Thingvallavatn, the largest natural lake in Iceland. The Strokkur Geyser, whose name means “The Churn”, erupts every five to eight minutes and reaches a height of up to 66 feet (20m). Gullfoss Falls is also among the must-sees.
Optional: Snorkelling in the Silfra fissure.

Scheduled: Exploring the Katla ice cave. Aboard a super jeep, you will head to the remarkable glacier beneath which Katla, a dormant volcano, lies. Equipped with crampons and all the necessary gear, you will walk through the impressive ice corridor of the Myrdalsjökull Glacier. Depending on its age, the ice appears blue, white or even black if it has trapped a large amount of volcanic ash. For here, fire and ice have come together, and their progeny is full of beauty. This is a unique experience that culminates in a visit to the black-sand beaches.

Drive to Lake Mývatn. It’s time for a great adventure: an epic day of road-tripping through fjords, waterfalls and natural springs. Along your route, among other sights, you’ll find the Reykholt valley and Borgarnes, a small port nestled at the end of a fjord, with colourful houses clustered around their wooden church; the Skagi peninsula and  Blönduós, a wild and sparsely populated region where horses and sheep graze independently on the moor; and the colourful houses of Akureyri, a charming town set on the edge of a fjord… Lunch will be in Blönduós or Brimslod.
To see  along the way:  Whale Fjord; Glymur waterfall; Deildartunguhver hot springs; the Icelandic Seal Center in Hvammstangi; Glaumbær Museum, a former green-roofed farmhouse that is now a museum, teaching us what local life was like at the start of the 20th century. 
When you arrive you’ll find yourself face to face with volcanic landscapes of surprising beauty, which never stop smoking, hissing, and bubbling. The lake is also an exceptional duck reserve - fifteen species nest in these shallow waters, including Barrow’s goldeneye, with its black head marked by a white spot, the harlequin duck with black plumage streaked with white lines, and the horned grebe with its red-ringed eyes. The house where you will stay for three nights is right on the water's edge. And if you can't resist the call of the great outdoors, the interiors are so cosy that you'll be happy to come back inside. The various bedrooms are warm, inviting and tastefully furnished with quality materials. The decor has been designed with a fresh, rustic yet modern feel, using subtle tones that blend together beautifully with the lush green surroundings. The balcony and barbecue provide a setting for sociable time in the open air, while the kitchen and pleasant living room provide a cosy indoor retreat. In the surrounding area, you will find a natural geothermal lagoon, a cousin of the famous Blue Lagoon. From this unique location, you can quickly reach the main natural gems of northern Iceland: Dettifoss, Aldeyjarfoss and Godafoss waterfalls, as well as the fumaroles of Mount Námafjall and Krafla volcano.

The best way to explore the region is to plan your day around Route 1, which  runs along Lake Mývatn and takes you to Skutustadir and its pseudo-crater formations. A little further on, you will find the Dimmuborgir site, known as the “dark citadel” because of its volcanic formations shaped like columns. It is a strange place, both bucolic and solemn. You will then reach Hverfjall and its explosion crater. The climb is easy and the view is striking. Northeast of Reykjahlid, you will reach Namaskard and its vast field of solfataras and bubbling mud pots, it feels like walking on Mars. A small network of trails allows you to walk among the geothermal features and climb Námafjall hill to take in stunning views of the yellowy-orange landscape. If time allows, you can end the day with a swim in the great outdoors overlooking Lake Mývatn, at the “Blue Lagoon of the North”, Jardbodin - a vast expanse of turquoise water at a temperature of 30°C.
Optional: Take a scenic flight over the region in a Cessna.

Drive to Akureyri, then take a short flight to Reykjavik. On arrival, private transfer and check in to a modern, cosy apartment decorated in the attractive Scandinavian style.
Already planned: a treat at one of the capital’s best pastry shops, run by a Frenchwoman who trained at the Paul Bocuse Institute in Lyon and fell in love with Iceland. She is creative, crafting high-end pastries that blend the local character and products of both countries. They are real little works of art and delicious treats to eat in or enjoy while walking through the streets of Reykjavik. 
Also planned for the evening: A reservation at a Nordic restaurant that specialises in seafood.

Private transfer to Keflavik and international return flight.

À la carte

This suggested itinerary can be customisable down to the smallest detail, including duration, stops and content. An à la carte menu of experiences is also available to create a journey that reflects who you are.

Diving in the Silfra fissure

Located in the Thingvellir plain. This volcanic lake-like fissure was formed when the American and Eurasian tectonic plates collided. The water that fills it comes from the Langjökull glacier, some 25 miles (40 km) away, and therefore maintains a constant temperature between 2 °C and 4 °C 35 °F and 40 °F (2 °C and 4 °C). With a wetsuit, mask and snorkel on hand, you can immerse yourself in these exceptionally clear waters.
Optional

Private Flight Over the Mývatn Region

Hop on board an authentic Cessna and fly over some of Iceland’s most beautiful landscapes. Starting with the area around Lake Mývatn before heading south to fly over Iceland’s largest desert, Ódáðahraun, and then Askja, a stratovolcano in the Highlands that rises to a height of 4,950 feet (1,510 metres). On the return journey, we’ll admire Hverfjall, Námafjall and Krafla before landing in Reykjahlíð.

Why visit Iceland with Voyageurs du monde?

Every day, our travel specialists craft bespoke experiences shaped around each traveller's profile, desires and budget. These passionate experts design experiences delivered on the ground by a local network of Concierges and trusted contacts. These fully customisable, made-to-measure trips are complemented by a wide range of high-end services (lounges, 24/7 assistance, travel booklet, app, Wi-Fi, restaurant booking, etc.)

Let us create your trip

A few of the advantages of travelling with us to Iceland

  • Globally unique concierge service
  • Gourmet Voyageurs
  • Adjust your trip while travelling
  • 24-hour assistance
  • CO2 absorption

Estimated budget

Price depends on departure city, season, accomodation types and selected activities

Based on six people
The estimated budget for this trip is $6,000 to $8,200 per person.

A fixed price is rarely applicable to a bespoke journey. The final cost depends on various factors, such as the level of service, travel dates, and booking lead times. The only definitive price will be the one provided in your personalized proposal.

The average price for this trip is $7,400 per person

Included in this suggestion

  • International flights on a scheduled airline
  • Akureyri-Reykjavík domestic flight
  • Airport taxes and fuel surcharges
  • Carbon absorption contribution for your trip's CO2 emissions through reforestation projects (via our Philippe Romero Insolite Bâtisseur Foundation)
  • Care rental (4x4) for six days
  • Private transfers as mentioned in the travel itinerary
  • Three nights in Thingvellir, in a private villa with half board
  • Three nights in Mývatn, in a private villa with half board
  • One night in Reykjavík, in a private apartment (accommodation only)
  • Tour of Katla cave with a private English-speaking guide
  • Afternoon tea in a high-end pâtisserie in Reykjavík
  • Our on-site Concierge service
  • A travel booklet with useful information (your day-by-day itinerary, hotel contact details, a personalized selection of our recommendations, etc.)
  • Our recommendations and reservations at selected restaurants
Ref:1694525
The Voyageurs du Monde spirit

Travel with complete freedom, guided by your interests,
ideas and passions.

Wherever you want

250 travel specialists, organised by country and region. Driven by a passion for beauty and never short of ideas, they inspire you and design an ultra-personalised journey: itineraries, accommodation, workshops, encounters, and more.

Whenever you want

Always at your service: with a dedicated travel specialist, Concierge service and 24/7 assistance, our teams support you and adapt in real time, for a trip that is both flexible and expertly supported.

However you want

With family, as a couple, in a group of ten, on a road trip, by train, by boat, for a weekend or a round-the-world journey... Trips tailored to your preferences, enhanced by clever services, for ever smoother travel.