Northern Iceland: Women‘s Wellness and Culture
July 31st – August 10th
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the stunning landscapes of Iceland, where dramatic volcanic formations, rich history, and unique cultural experiences await. From relaxing beer baths to exploring powerful waterfalls and riding Icelandic horses, this itinerary is designed to immerse you fully in the heart of Iceland’s captivating beauty.
This tour shares the beauty of Northern Iceland - far away from the throngs of tourists - and helps you relax, refresh and recharge through cultural/historic, recreational, culinary and wellness experiences. Designed for women and by women (Herdis, Heidi and Sue), cultural/historic highlights include: visits to the Museum of Prophecies, the Herring Era Museum and the Akureyri Botanical Gardens. Recreational highlights include hiking at Hljodaklettar, riding Icelandic horses, exploring the Dettifoss and Godafoss waterfalls, swimming in local pools, sailing and sea angling. We will also indulge in plenty of local fish and lamb plus traditional Icelandic foods (wine, beer and chocolate, too!). Wellness experiences include the solitude of the North Atlantic, drinking wine in the midnight sun, and soaking in spas such as the Beer Spa, Geoseas Nature Baths and the Forest Nature Baths. Free time to explore the capital city of Reykjavik round out the tour. Come explore the Land of Fire and Ice with Heidi and Sue!
Iceland is an island of 103,000 km2 (39,756 mi2) with a population of approximately 400,000 people, the least densely populated country in Europe. Over half the population lives in the beautiful, modern city of Reykjavik, leaving the rest of the island dotted with small villages and majestic undeveloped scenery. Iceland’s summers are surprisingly warm, lush and green, with days lengthening until midsummer, when the sun dips down to the horizon but only sets for a few hours. There are more than 170 geothermal pools scattered throughout the country and we will relax in several of them throughout the tour. This women’s only adventure will take us from Reykjavik and across the northern coast of Iceland to the beautiful city of Akureyri and the mysterious area surrounding Myvatn. Join together with the kinship of fellow women and take in some sights, sounds, smells and tastes that Iceland has to offer.
Trip leaders:
Sue Kissinger and Heidi Einarsdottir
Sue Kissinger has traveled extensively throughout the United States, Canada, Central America, South Africa and Europe. She recently retired from UWSP where she worked for 30 years as a Career Specialist and Academic Adviser. Sue has a BS in Forestry and an MS in Natural Resources from UWSP. She has led 29 UWSP international trips for students and the public, including 11 to Iceland! Sue and her husband Don recently relocated to a lake in northwestern Wisconsin and enjoy hiking, kayaking, fishing and spoiling their grandchildren.
Heidi Einarsdottir was born and raised on a farm in South Iceland, and has been involved with the tourism industry in Iceland since 2005. She lived in the US for two years and has two grown sons. She is a trained hair designer, make-up artist and nail technician. Heidi has her BA in English and MA in Culture and Communication from University of Iceland. Her glass is always half full and she has made it a goal in her life to have fun and see the bright sides of life. Heidi loves meeting people and showing off the beautiful and wonderful Iceland.
Click here to view the itinerary.
Trip Fees:
- 10 or 11 People - $7,650 per person
- 12 or 13 people - $7,000 per person
- 14 People - $6,700 per person
- 15 People - $6,550 per person
Payment Schedule:
- $450 non-refundable deposit due upon registration
- First payment due by Friday, April 4, 2025
- Second payment due by Friday, June 6, 2025
- Single occupancy rates are not available for this trip.
Click here for more information.
Whether you’re marveling at Iceland's geological wonders, soaking in rejuvenating beer baths, or immersing yourself in the country’s rich cultural history, this trip is an adventure like no other. We look forward to sharing these unforgettable moments with you!
Join us on this incredible journey through Iceland’s natural beauty, history, and hospitality.
July 31st – August 10th
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the stunning landscapes of Iceland, where dramatic volcanic formations, rich history, and unique cultural experiences await. From relaxing beer baths to exploring powerful waterfalls and riding Icelandic horses, this itinerary is designed to immerse you fully in the heart of Iceland’s captivating beauty.
Day 1
Thursday, July 31, 2025 – Departure
Begin your Icelandic journey with an overnight flight from the U.S., arriving in Keflavik (KEF) early the following morning. Your adventure starts here.
Day 2
Friday, August 1, 2025 – Ease Into It
Welcome to Iceland! Sue and Heidi will greet you at the airport and whisk you away for a leisurely breakfast at the Viking Museum in Keflavik. From there, we’ll travel by motor coach towards Blönduós, with stops along the way at the Settlement Center in Borgarnes and Kolugjúfur Canyon—an impressive natural wonder.
- Overnight: Glaðheimar Cottages
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3
Saturday, August 2, 2025 – Agnes and Burial Rites
Today, we step into the world of Burial Rites, the powerful novel by Hannah Kent, as we explore the life of Agnus Magnusdottir, the last person executed in Iceland. Delve into this haunting history as we visit key sites related to the story. The day will include an iconic Icelandic horseback ride through a picturesque valley—an experience you simply can’t miss. We’ll round off the day with a relaxing soak in the local swimming pool.
Tip: To get the most out of this day, we highly recommend reading Burial Rites before the trip.
- Overnight: Glaðheimar Cottages
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4
Sunday, August 3, 2025 – Heading East
We continue our journey toward the mystical Myvatn area, with stops that showcase Iceland’s natural wonders: the Museum of Prophecies, the historic Godafoss Waterfall, and the fascinating Skútustaðagígar pseudo-craters.
- Overnight: Eldá Guesthouse
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5
Monday, August 4, 2025 – Jewels of the North
Get ready for a day of awe-inspiring hikes and exploration. We’ll visit Dimmuborgir, Ásbyrgi Canyon, and Námaskarð Geothermal Area, taking in the raw power and beauty of Iceland’s volcanic landscape. Our hike through the rock formations of Hljodaklettar and the lava fields of Dimmuborgir will leave you speechless. We’ll finish the day at Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall—prepare to feel the force of nature.
- Overnight: Eldá Guesthouse
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 6
Tuesday, August 5, 2025 – Beer Baths and Moroccan Food
Today, we head towards the charming town of Siglufjordur, with a special stop to relax in the rejuvenating Bjórböðin Beer Spa. Here, you’ll soak in a warm bath of young beer, hops, and yeast, all while sipping on a cold brew. The experience is as relaxing as it is unique, with numerous skin and health benefits. In the evening, we’ll enjoy a delicious Moroccan feast—yes, you read that right—Moroccan cuisine in the North of Iceland!
- Overnight: Eldá Guesthouse
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7
Wednesday, August 6, 2025 – Sea Angling, Herring, and Beer
Start the day with a thrilling sea angling adventure in the North Atlantic. After a hearty lunch, we’ll dive into Iceland’s maritime history at the Herring Era Museum before heading to the Seagull 67 Brewery for a tour and tasting session.
- Overnight: Hotel Siglunes
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8
Thursday, August 7, 2025 – Exploring Akureyri
Today’s highlight is the tranquil Forest Nature Baths—an idyllic spot for relaxation amidst nature. We’ll also stop at Jólahúsið in Eyjaförður, Iceland’s famous Christmas House, before visiting the beautiful Akureyri Botanical Garden.
- Overnight: Kea Hotels
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9
Friday, August 8, 2025 – Free Time & Geoseas
Start your day with free time in Akureyri—whether you explore the Akureyri Art Museum, visit the local swimming pool, or simply wander the charming streets. Afterward, we’ll travel to the quaint fishing village of Husavik, where you’ll enjoy a delightful lunch and an afternoon soak in the Geosea Geothermal Sea Baths, where the warm waters meet the Arctic Ocean. Return to Akureyri for a free evening to explore the lively nightlife of Iceland’s “Capital of the North.”
- Overnight: Kea Hotels
- Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 10
Saturday, August 9, 2025 – Heading South
As our journey continues south, we’ll take a scenic hike to the top of Grábrók Crater for sweeping views of the Icelandic countryside. Then, it’s off to Reykjavik, where you’ll have free time to explore and shop in this vibrant, modern city.
- Overnight: Centers Hotel Miðgarður, Reykjavik
- Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 11
Sunday, August 10, 2025 – Departure Day
On your final day in Iceland, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel and a free morning to explore Reykjavik. A farewell lunch awaits at Kaffi Duus in Keflavik, followed by a shuttle to the airport for your afternoon departure.
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Farewell Lunch