This women-only Winter Wellness Retreat in Iceland is designed to restore both body and mind while experiencing Iceland’s winter landscapes at a relaxed and intentional pace. The journey begins in Reykjavík with a guided city walk before heading into nature for unique experiences such as snorkeling between the tectonic plates in Þingvellir National Park, hiking to the kingdom of all geothermal areas, and exploring Iceland’s winter scenery. Wellness is woven thoughtfully into the retreat, with time set aside for rest, reflection, and connection. A guided yoga session, visits to natural hot springs and geothermal spas, and shared meals create space to slow down and recharge. The focus is on balance—combining outdoor activity with plenty of time to unwind and enjoy the surroundings. This winter wellness retreat for women is centered around connection: with nature, with yourself, and with the women you share the journey with. Whether marveling at the Northern Lights dancing across the winter sky or gathering for a farewell dinner, each day is designed to leave you feeling grounded, refreshed, and part of the Viking Women community.
Duration
6 Days
Season
October to May
Weather
-5–5°C (23–41°F)
Group
Max 14 women
Terrain
Hiking Distance & Terrain
Difficulty
Moderate with few challenging parts
Wander past bubbling mudpots and rainbow-streaked hillsides in one of Iceland’s most otherworldly geothermal areas — pure highland magic.
Float in glacial water between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates — one of the clearest, most surreal swims on Earth.
The water is so clear!
No filter needed. On a clear winter night, the aurora can turn the whole sky green — and you’re watching it from somewhere with zero light pollution.
Most of our travelers book solo. By the end of day one — usually over the welcome dinner — that changes. The women you meet on this trip tend to stay in your life. Small group, shared views, real friendships.
The best trip ever! Being with only women, meeting amazing new friends all interested in the same adventure, and our guide (Gunnar) was the absolute best and handled everything down to the wonderful Icelandic touches making it relaxing and fun! She played Icelandic mythology stories while we rode to the Highlands making it magical imagining Odin, Thor and Tyr. I highly recommend the women’s wellness tour. It was everything I hoped and so much more.
I just returned from a 6-day wellness retreat in Iceland with Viking Women Tours, and it was truly a very special experience.
Our guide, Sigrun, was absolutely amazing. Her knowledge of Iceland, its nature, and culture was impressive, but even more important was her warmth, flexibility, and care for the group. Icelandic weather can be unpredictable, and Sigrun handled it perfectly—adjusting plans, finding alternatives, and always making sure we had the best possible experience. I always felt we were in very good hands.
This retreat was not only about seeing Iceland—it was about feeling it, connecting with nature, and also reconnecting with ourselves and each other. I’m leaving with unforgettable memories and a strong desire to come back to this beautiful country.
Highly recommended—especially with Sigrun as your guide.
I was beyond impressed with my Viking Women Tours experience!
From excellent communication pre-trip to the absolute best guide our group could have asked for (Gunnur!), the Summer Wellness tour was absolute perfection. Thank you for the genuine love and enthusiasm for your beautiful country! Will definitely be signing up for another tour.
Incredible experience with an absolutely amazing guide, Gunnur. She was so enthusiastic, so relaxed and full of knowledge about the geology and history and culture of Iceland. She was kind and thoughtful and so encouraging when one hike got a little challenging for me. Hands down best guide I have ever had ! Anywhere! The trip itself was also great. We saw so much in only five days. Hotels were lovely, food was amazing and the company outstanding!
I had the most amazing experience with Viking Women! We travelled into the Icelandic highlands on an incredible luxury adventure, surrounded by breathtaking nature and with every detail taken care of.
Everything was absolutely perfect from start to finish. I met so many wonderful women, made new friendships, and got to experience the Icelandic highlands in such a special way.
A truly unforgettable trip. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for adventure, luxury, beautiful nature, and amazing company.
The best trip ever! Being with only women, meeting amazing new friends all interested in the same adventure, and our guide (Gunnar) was the absolute best and handled everything down to the wonderful Icelandic touches making it relaxing and fun! She played Icelandic mythology stories while we rode to the Highlands making it magical imagining Odin, Thor and Tyr. I highly recommend the women’s wellness tour. It was everything I hoped and so much more.
I just returned from a 6-day wellness retreat in Iceland with Viking Women Tours, and it was truly a very special experience.
Our guide, Sigrun, was absolutely amazing. Her knowledge of Iceland, its nature, and culture was impressive, but even more important was her warmth, flexibility, and care for the group. Icelandic weather can be unpredictable, and Sigrun handled it perfectly—adjusting plans, finding alternatives, and always making sure we had the best possible experience. I always felt we were in very good hands.
This retreat was not only about seeing Iceland—it was about feeling it, connecting with nature, and also reconnecting with ourselves and each other. I’m leaving with unforgettable memories and a strong desire to come back to this beautiful country.
Highly recommended—especially with Sigrun as your guide.
I was beyond impressed with my Viking Women Tours experience!
From excellent communication pre-trip to the absolute best guide our group could have asked for (Gunnur!), the Summer Wellness tour was absolute perfection. Thank you for the genuine love and enthusiasm for your beautiful country! Will definitely be signing up for another tour.
Incredible experience with an absolutely amazing guide, Gunnur. She was so enthusiastic, so relaxed and full of knowledge about the geology and history and culture of Iceland. She was kind and thoughtful and so encouraging when one hike got a little challenging for me. Hands down best guide I have ever had ! Anywhere! The trip itself was also great. We saw so much in only five days. Hotels were lovely, food was amazing and the company outstanding!
I had the most amazing experience with Viking Women! We travelled into the Icelandic highlands on an incredible luxury adventure, surrounded by breathtaking nature and with every detail taken care of.
Everything was absolutely perfect from start to finish. I met so many wonderful women, made new friendships, and got to experience the Icelandic highlands in such a special way.
A truly unforgettable trip. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for adventure, luxury, beautiful nature, and amazing company.
Three handpicked luxury stays carry you through the trip: the Exeter Hotel in Reykjavík, Highland Base at Kerlingarfjöll in the heart of the highlands, and ION Adventure Hotel, all chosen for comfort after a full day outdoors.
We have single and twin room options. If you choose a twin room option we’ll match you with someone from our group.
All meals are included, with elevated Nordic cuisine built around seasonal, local ingredients.
Dietary restrictions? Let us know when you book.
Welcome to Reykjavík, Iceland’s vibrant capital and the starting point of your women-only winter wellness retreat. Upon arrival, guests make their own way from Keflavík International Airport to the hotel. Check-in begins at 14:00, with luggage storage available.
At 15:30, we meet at the hotel reception for introductions before setting out on a guided walking tour of Reykjavík. Strolling through the city center, we’ll explore Icelandic history, culture, and local traditions—an ideal way to settle in and connect with the group. In the evening, we gather for a welcome dinner, marking the official start of the retreat.
Today we begin our journey into Iceland’s natural wonders, starting with the Golden Circle. We visit the Geysir Geothermal Area, where hot springs bubble and steam rises.
At 11:00, we continue by Super Jeep into the Icelandic Highlands, traveling toward Kerlingarfjöll, often referred to as the “Lady Mountains.” Upon arrival, we settle into our deluxe rooms, enjoy lunch, and spend the afternoon either hiking in the surrounding highland landscape or relaxing in the Highland Baths—the choice is yours. The evening is spent unwinding in this remote and striking mountain environment.
We spend the day immersed in the Kerlingarfjöll Highlands, one of Iceland’s most dramatic geothermal regions. Today’s guided hike takes us through Hveradalir, known for its steaming vents, colorful rhyolite hills, and volcanic terrain.
The hike covers approximately 12 km (7.5 miles) with an elevation gain of 400 m (1,300 ft) and takes around 5 – 6 hours, with plenty of time to enjoy the scenery. Winter in the highlands is cold and changeable, with snow, ice, and wind all part of the experience — crampons are necessary, and depending on conditions, the hike may be adjusted or cancelled for safety. After the hike (weather permitting), we return to the lodge to relax in the natural highland baths before enjoying dinner in the evening.
After breakfast, we enjoy a slower morning in the highlands before departing around midday. Our afternoon begins with a visit to the magnificent Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. We then travel south toward Nesjavellir, arriving at the ION Adventure Hotel, beautifully set within a geothermal landscape.
The evening is spent relaxing at the hotel, soak in the hot tub and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
The day begins with a one-hour guided yoga session, led by a certified yoga teacher and designed to promote relaxation and balance.
Later, we head to Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for a guided snorkeling tour in the Silfra fissure. Floating in crystal-clear glacial water, you’ll snorkel between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, one of Iceland’s most unique natural experiences. All necessary equipment is provided, including drysuits for warmth and comfort.
The evening is spent back at the hotel, with time to relax and, weather permitting, watch for the Northern Lights.
After breakfast, we begin our journey home. The drive from ION Adventure Hotel to Keflavík International Airport takes approximately 1.5 hours. Guests flying out are advised to book afternoon departures, as the airport transfer makes one group stop.
For those extending their stay, there is the option to return to Reykjavík with the guide after the airport drop-off. We say farewell with shared memories from a truly special Iceland winter wellness retreat.
Icelandic winter weather can be unpredictable, with cold temperatures, strong winds, rain and snow all possible in the same day. The key is to dress in layers, so you can easily adjust throughout the day. A warm base layer, insulating mid-layer and waterproof, windproof outer layer will keep you comfortable while sightseeing and exploring. Good waterproof footwear with grip is just as important, especially around waterfalls and other icy areas.
Along with your winter clothing, pack a few essentials to keep you comfortable throughout your trip. Don’t forget your swimsuit for Iceland’s geothermal pools and lagoons, personal toiletries and medications, chargers, and a reusable water bottle. A scarf or neck warmer is also highly recommended for windy days. Pack smart, but leave a little extra room in your suitcase for Icelandic souvenirs!
Winter hiking in Iceland requires warm, weatherproof clothing and a good layering system. Conditions can change quickly, with cold temperatures, strong winds, rain, snow and ice all possible. Wear a moisture-wicking base layer, warm insulating layers and a waterproof, windproof outer layer. Sturdy waterproof hiking boots with good grip are essential, and always carry extra layers in your daypack so you can adjust to changing conditions.
