Iceland, A Guide Beyond Reykjavik

Advisor - Jessica Ercolano
Curated By

Jessica Ercolano

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  • Iceland

  • Reykjavik

  • Active Travel

  • Adventure Travel

  • Digital Nomad Travel

  • Off-the-Beaten-Path Travel

  • Nature Escapes

  • Island

  • Lakeside

  • Mountains

  • Outdoors

  • Relexation

  • Sightseeing

  • Spa

A green canyon with a river int he middle in Iceland.
Curator’s statement

Iceland is a magnificent country existing as a distinct dichotomy of nature. Two completely opposite elements of nature coexisting to create this almost unreal setting. There are no words that do it justice, you just have to see it to know. If you're used to a hectic lifestyle (like me) Iceland is the place to go to reconnect to the world around you. It may not be like your traditional relaxing beach type vacation but the solitude, fresh air and unspoiled beauty all around you can reset your internal chaos.

The Fora Difference

Book with Jessica to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.

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Killer perks

Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you

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Personalized recs

Customized travel planning for your style

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Insider knowledge

Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there

Where to stay In Iceland

Umi Hotel

Warm, inviting hotel with stylish rooms offering mountain and ocean views.

Fora Perks
  • $100 hotel / resort credit.

  • Daily breakfast.

  • Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

The Reykjavik EDITION

The Reykjavik EDITION brings the first five-star modern luxury experience to one of the world's most sustainable capitals.

Fora Perks
  • $100 food / beverage credit.

  • Breakfast daily.

  • Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Advisor - Jessica Ercolano

Unlock perks by contacting Jessica to book your trip.

Things to do In Iceland

The geysers in Iceland.

Visit Waterfalls

Hraunfossar waterfall: Not a high waterfall, but rather many smaller ones with water that is the most amazing shade of blue. Picturesque and serene.

Godafoss waterfall: If you're driving the Ring Road, take a quick pit stop to this epic waterfall.

Skógafoss waterfall: Easily one of the most-photographed waterfalls in Iceland. The view does not disappoint.

Take a drive

In the spring/summer, rent a car with Blue Car Rental (remember to fully inspect your car before leaving the lot) and take a drive up to the Westfjords for amazing panoramic views and majestic cliffs. Recommended stops: Hornstrandir Nature Reserve and Látrabjarg. Look out for puffins around the cliffs of Látrabjarg.

Tours

Dive.is: Offers an awesome snorkeling tour where you get to snorkel or dive between two tectonic plates. The water is incredibly clear and filtered through tectonic rock. They also provide PADI diving courses.

Lakí Tours: Provides amazing and responsible whale watching tours. They keep a safe distance from the whales to avoid disturbing their behavior. Be prepared for winter tours with gloves and a hat.

2go Iceland: Offers a private Fagradalsfjall volcano hike. This moderate 3-4 hour hike to the 2021 eruption crater is done at your own pace and is completely private for your group/family. They provide pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation or you can meet them on-site.

Glacier Travel: Provides an awesome ice cave tour. Choose from a three-hour or five-hour tour, starting at Jökulsárlón lagoon. The ice caves are surreal and crystal clear. They provide helmets, crampons and headlamps.

Spa

Blue Lagoon spa: A must-visit. Try to go at sunrise or sunset if possible. The basic entrance fee includes a silica mud mask and one drink of choice. The warm water provides a relaxing contrast to the cold air.

Places to eat & drink In Iceland

Aerial view of drinks and bowl of lemons on a wooden table in Reykjavik, Iceland

Harbour Cafe, Grundarfjörður: Enjoyed this cafe after whale watching. Great paninis and soups.

Galito, Akranes: Stylish upscale restaurant with a variety of dishes from Bao buns to tacos to roasted lamb. Offers elevated hamburgers and pizza. Enjoyed meals and great atmosphere.

Nailed It Fish and Chips: Well-made and simple fish and chips from a food truck. Located at Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.

Gamla fjósið, Hvolsvollur: Family-owned eatery near the Umi Hotel. Offers soups, stews, burgers, sandwiches, as well as beer, wine and cocktails. Locally sourced ingredients.

Sjávargrillið, Reykjavik: Exceptional dining experience. Highlights include flavorful lobster tacos. Service can be slow but worth the wait. Recommended to sit downstairs for a more intimate atmosphere. Always book in advance.

Tjöruhúsið, Ísafjörður: Family-owned laid-back spot in the Westfjords. No menu as it is a catch of the day place. Offers the best seafood you will ever have.

Advisor - Jessica Ercolano

Travel Advisor

Jessica Ercolano

Get in touch with Jessica

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Iceland.