After months of wedding planning, you and your significant other will surely need to spend some quality time together, and there’s no better place for a honeymoon than Iceland. Explore the country’s vast landscapes together with a helicopter ride over geothermal fields or a kayaking excursion in the picturesque Westfjords, and you’ll understand why the land of fire and ice is one of the most romantic spots on earth. Whether you visit in the summer or winter, there are plenty of opportunities for both adventure and relaxation.
Planning Your Honeymoon in Iceland
Iceland is a small country—technically, you could drive around its entire perimeter in less than 20 hours. But to make the most of your first journey with your new spouse, you'll need at least a week to fully enjoy all the magnificent sights on your list without feeling rushed. Spend a couple of days in Reykjavik , exploring the burgeoning cultural and culinary scenes of the capital city, before starting your roadtrip in the countryside.
There are a few things to keep in mind about road-tripping in Iceland. First, road and weather conditions can change quickly, especially in the winter - the phrase "If you don't like the weather now, just wait five minutes" is common among experienced locals. While in the summer you could get away with renting a smaller car, it's a good idea to rent a bigger vehicle with four-wheel drive for winter excursions. Also, note that off-road driving in Iceland is prohibited. While it's tempting to leave the established path in search of unexplored areas, you will be risking a serious fine - and in the remote reaches of Iceland, you'll want to stick to the road just in case you're ever in need of assistance.
If you want to avoid the selfie-snapping crowds that flock to the south shore, head north of Reykjavik. Spend some time at Snaefellsnes peninsula before reaching the Westfjords, a stunning and remote part of Iceland that offers plenty of romantic sights and great activities for couples.
Dive Between Continents at Silfra
Silfra is not just one of the top diving sites in the world that’s filled with crystal clear glacier water but it also has a unique location which makes the experience even more exceptional. Situated in Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Silfra is where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet so you can literally swim between two continents. If you and your significant other are not experienced divers, you can also go for a snorkeling tour of the fissure.
The dive lasts between 30 to 40 minutes during which you will explore the four main parts of the site: the Big Crack, which is the narrowest section, the Silfra Hall, which leads into a cave system, the Silfra cathedral, and the lagoon. And don’t worry about the chilly Arctic water, your guides will not let you dive without the proper equipment to keep you warm.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Go Dogsledding
Opt out of driving for a few hours, and go for a dogsledding expedition in the Icelandic countryside. Those are available in the Lake Myvatn area in the north, along with Southern Iceland's famed Golden Circle region. It is an authentic and fun way to experience the country, and see places that are not accessible via car.
The best part about these tours? You get to spend time with the friendly huskies, learn about them, and, most importantly, cuddle and snap a few pictures with them. It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If there’s no snow, most mushers turn their sleds into carts by adding wheels to them so you can still enjoy the adventure. We don’t have to tell you that if you’re a dog lover, this activity is a must. Keep in mind that dogsledding tours tend to fill up quickly, so book yours as soon as possible.
Take a Helicopter Ride from Reykjavik
Seeing Iceland from a bird’s eye is truly a unique way to experience the country's raw beauty. Most Reykjavik-based helicopter tour operators will pick you up from the nearby domestic airport and can fly you wherever you want to go. One of the most popular options includes two landings: one at a glacier, and another at the Hengill geothermal fields where you can walk among the hot springs.
There is really nothing more magical than flying above some of the country’s most spectacular sights such as Gullfoss waterfall, Hekla volcano, or the stunning Jökulsárlón glacier lake. While most helicopter tour operators offer standard tours, they can also work with you to customize an itinerary that satisfies your wishes. These tours run year-round, although in the winter, short days and unpredictable weather may result in a cancellation.
Glacier Climbing at Sólheimajökull
If you can't get enough of adrenaline-inducing experiences, then you'll love spending a day glacier hiking and climbing. Most tours take place at Sólheimajökull glacier, so if you're based in Reykjavik, expect a two-hour drive south. Once at the location, an experienced guide will help you navigate crevasses, sinkholes, ridges, and ice formations. You'll get an introduction to the activity and all the necessary equipment to safely enjoy a full day of stunning glacier views. Some glacier tours also include a visit to the ice caves which form in the glaciers after the summer melting period, weather permitting.
Instead of driving back to Reykjavik, consider staying overnight in Vik, a small fishing village only half an hour away from the glacier. The centrally located Icelandair Hotel offers fabulous views to Reynisdrangar Pillars, beautiful volcanic rock columns, and its elegant restaurant has an excellent à la carte menu.
Go Kayaking at the Westfjords
The Westfjords, a peninsula in the northwest of the country, is the ideal spot for a newlywed couple. Why, you may ask? The region has managed to stay hidden from the hordes of tourists that flock to the country’s south and north to see some of its most popular sights. But that doesn’t mean the Westfjords lack magnificent views; in fact, it's quite the opposite. Dramatic fjords, grand waterfalls, and otherworldly landscapes are very much present in this part of the country as well.
A great way to spend a day is to rent a couple of kayaks and explore the coast. Stay at Isafjordur, the largest town in the area, where Hotel Isafjordur offers wonderful views of the fjord. For excellent fresh seafood, try Tjöruhúsið restaurant, a casual eatery that offers several catches of the day. You can also head to Patreksfjörður, another small fishing town in the southern part of the Westfjords that has a brand new outdoor swimming pool, and onsite Stukuhusid Restaurant & Cafe overlooks the majestic fjord. Both towns offer good kayaking conditions since they are located in bays. Look out for whales, puffins, seals, but most importantly, enjoy the peace and quiet (and views!) of the Westfjords.