Polar Light, the Aurora Borealis and Private Cocoons A Cool Family Trip to Iceland in Winter

Great outdoors that transcend boundaries, snow-covered landscapes and nature that seems to be reclaiming its rights at every turn. Endless lava fields that stretch as far as the eye can see, covered in snow; frozen waterfalls, motionless, as if time itself had come to a stop. The polar light of winter, which gives the days an air of endless twilight. And, in the dark night, the northern lights - dancing lights of solar wind particles. A trip to Iceland in winter is a different kind of trip to Iceland altogether. This route takes you along the south coast, a narrow strip of land between the foothills of the Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers and the Atlantic Ocean, home to some of the island’s most beautiful landscapes, from spectacular waterfalls to long stretches of black sand beaches. From our drop-off point at Stokkseyri, we are just a stone’s throw from the legendary Golden Circle, which is less crowded in winter. We’ll visit Thingvellir National Park with its vast lake, lava fields that look like they belong on the moon, and rocky mountains - standing between two worlds, one foot on the American plate, the other on the Eurasian plate. In Geysir, we’ll see a geyser that is still active - water rises, bursts forth in a column, then dissipates into a cloud of steam, leaving behind the smell of sulphur. And Gullfoss waterfall: In winter, partly frozen in blue swirls, it falls majestically in all its glory. The south is also a region of volcanoes, rivers and glaciers with names such as Hekla, Thjorsá or Mýrdalsjökull. In the blink of an eye, we’ll then head north to Akureyri fjord, the northernmost point of our trip - almost touching the Arctic Circle ! Nicknamed the “Capital of the North”, Akureyri has a unique charm and is an ideal location to explore the fishing villages dotted along the shores of Eyjafjörður, the hot springs bursting from the mountains, lakes Héðinsfjarðarvatn and Mývatn, as well as lava labyrinths, solfataric fields and bubbling mudpots. The trip ends in Reykjavík, the main city and capital, where you can stroll through arty neighbourhoods lined with colourful wooden houses, cosy cafés and concept stores, which are home to artists who love their island. Beware - it’s contagious.

Your Trip

Because Iceland is undoubtedly the perfect destination for a road trip, you’ll have your own rental car to travel at your own pace, with a GPS app and our recommendations as a helpful guide along the way. Even in winter, there are no technical difficulties: You just need to know how to hold a steering wheel in the snow and wind. What an exhilarating feeling of freedom it is to drive on snow-covered roads, surrounded by vast, immaculate landscapes. To truly appreciate the charms of an Icelandic winter, you also need some cosy shelters: We have selected some rather exceptional accommodation options for you, each one is completely private, ensuring complete independence. Finally, several highlights have been added to your itinerary: A unique day trip by jeep along the south coast accompanied by a guide-photographer who knows the areainside out and i excels at capturing your presence in these breathtaking landscapes; two fully Icelandic relaxation breaks in the hot springs in Stokkseyri and Akureyri; a snowshoe hike through the sublime nature surrounding Lake Mývatn; and a leisurely stroll through the streets of Reykjavík with a local. Unforgettable moments, complemented here and there by restaurant reservations and assistance from our Concierge on site, who will be at your disposal to handle any last-minute wishes or minor setbacks, should there be any.

Your Private & Family-Friendly Accommodation

In Stokkseyri, on the south coast, you’ll stay in a sleek, architect-designed house built from wood and volcanic stone. A cocoon of modern comfort - designer furniture, a marble table and architect-designed lamps. The compact layout promises a cosy atmosphere and a sense of intimacy without ever feeling cramped. From the terrace, you can see the shoreline.

In Akureyri, in the north, you’ll settle into an apartment overlooking the fjord, which offers breathtaking views of the seascape. Inside, soothing tones and functional design. Everything is very well thought out (and equipped), from the kitchen to the living room to the terrace. And to top it all off, the residence offers Nordic baths and hot tubs.

In Reykjavík, your apartment is incredibly cosy, with modern amenities and a tried-and-tested Scandinavian style. You are also right in the heart of the city, making it ideal for exploring on foot and soaking up the warm, vibrant atmosphere of the capital.