- Overview
- Map & Itinerary
- Essential Info
- Pics & Vids
- Dates & Prices
Highlights
- Dive into our brand new Hike & Swim adventure in Iceland’s colossal and captivating north
- Explore the rugged beauty of North Iceland, where adventure awaits at every turn
- Immerse yourself in one of the world’s most exhilarating experiences, dip in the bright blue waters of a geothermal crater lake
- Enjoy an evening swim in a geothermal heated pool overlooking the bay and framed by snow covered Icelandic mountains
- Explore the stunning North coast around Skagafjordur, passing small black sand bays and grassy shores
- Soak in the natural hot springs of Mývatn Nature Baths, surrounded by awe-inspiring landscapes
- Witness the Earth’s raw power with bubbling mud pots and steaming vents only 50 miles from the Arctic Circle
- Lace up your boots and trek through otherworldly landscapes, including volcanic craters, lava fields, and snow-capped peaks
- Experience the mineral-rich, geothermal sea baths of GeoSea, Húsavík
- Delve deep into Icelandic culture and history as you journey through the rich tapestry of this fascinating land
- Swim & dip with confidence as you’ll be accompanied by our Swim Coach at all times.
Overview
Get ready to embark on an extraordinary journey through Iceland’s breathtaking north, a paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers and wild dippers & swimmers. Dive into a realm of moonlike lava fields, mineral-rich warm geothermal pools, bubbling mudpots, majestic waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks, all set against the backdrop of volcanic wonder home to a dramatic coastline. This is Iceland at its absolute finest.
This is your chance to escape everyday reality and connect with nature in its purest form. Discover geothermal hot springs scattered throughout North Iceland, offering a unique opportunity to bathe in naturally heated waters while surrounded by otherworldly geologic wonders.
In Iceland, swimming is a cherished tradition and deeply engrained in their culture, with everyone learning to swim from a young age. From bustling cities to remote villages, you’ll find inviting pools, tranquil lagoons, and natural hot springs scattered throughout this wild and remote island marooned near the top of the globe. These spots aren’t just for swimming – they’re hubs of tradition and community gathering.
What’s truly remarkable these swimming spots are more than just places to take a dip. They’re bound in tradition and folklore and are where the communities come together. What’s even more remarkable is that in many of the best spots, including the public pools, the water is warmed by the earth itself. The swimming will be about relaxing into the natural environment and connecting with nature rather than distances. On foot, you’ll venture to beautiful wild swimming spots, and if conditions permit, you’ll partake in one of the most thrilling experiences imaginable: taking a dip in the vivid blue waters of a geothermal crater lake. Trekking through a volcanic terrain dusted with snow, you’ll have the chance to submerge yourself in the crater lake of Viti volcano- a genuinely extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. But the adventure doesn’t stop there. There are also adventurous swims in Iceland. On some evenings, tailored swimming coaching will be offered in community pools or simply enjoy soaking in geothermal heated warm baths which are at the heart of the Icelandic community.
So grab your swimsuit and prepare to make a splash in one of the world’s most captivating and magical destinations.
Is this trip right for you?
Whether you’re a dipper or a swimmer, our North Iceland Hike & Swim adventure offers the perfect 5-day escape where you can connect with some of the most spectacular natural environments on the planet. Ideal for those new to wild swimming or those seeking a refreshing break, this journey caters to all levels. Our Swim Coach will be on hand to offer tips, advice, and stroke correction coaching where applicable and our Local Icelandic Guide will accompany us filled with plenty of folklore and Icelandic traditions to share.
Arrival and welcome
Get ready to embark on your adventure! After your flight from the UK to Akureyri, your private minibus will be waiting to whisk you away to your accommodation just an hour and a half from the airport in Hofsos. Picture this: nestled near an outdoor geothermal heated swimming pool, with stunning views of the bay and snow-capped Icelandic mountains.
As you settle in, an early dinner awaits, followed by a briefing and a warm introduction to our team. But the adventure doesn’t stop there! After dinner, it’s time for an evening swim session led by our expert swimming coach. Whether you’re an experienced swimmer or just dipping your toes in, our coaching is tailored to you.
Then, unwind with a relaxing soak in the warm hotpots around the pool, soaking in the tranquility just 50 miles from the Arctic Circle. This is where local people of all ages hang out to catch up on the news and
make friends. It’s the perfect way to end your first day in Iceland, sharing stories under the vast Icelandic sky.
Included
Private transfer: 4×4 minibus
Accommodation: Guesthouse Sunnuberg Hofsós (twin share basis)
Meals: Not included
Trek the North Coast and Swim Grettislaug & Varmahlíð
After enjoying breakfast at your accommodation in Hofsos, you’ll set off on a scenic journey along the black sandy coastline to Skagafjordur, about an hour away. Prepare to be amazed as you explore the stunning North coast, wandering through the grassy shores of Grettislaug and Glerhallavik, passing by small bays nestled below towering cliffs and a protected nature area. Keep an eye out for seabirds and soak in the breathtaking mountain views along the way.
By lunchtime, you’ll reach the famous hot springs at Grettislaug, named after Grettir the Strong, a legendary Icelandic outlaw. Here, you’ll have the chance to relax in the thermal springs, surrounded by majestic mountain ranges and the soothing sound of waves crashing nearby. After your rejuvenating soak, you’ll continue your journey southward, arriving at our accommodation in Varmahlíð, just 50 minutes away.
Dinner awaits, followed by another invigorating coached pool session at the local pool. If you’re feeling adventurous, there are natural hot springs just 5km from your accommodation, where you can unwind and bask in the glow of the midnight sun. It’s sure to be a memorable evening!
Trekking distance approx. 10km.
Included
Private transfer: 4×4 minibus
Accommodation: Guesthouse (twin share basis)
Meals: Breakfast only
Trek Vatnajokull National Park & Dip in Viti Volcano lake crater
After an early breakfast, you’ll hop aboard your private 4×4 minibus headed for the Askja Caldera in the Dyngjufjoll Mountains on the northern side of the Vatnajokull National Park. Covering 50 square kilometers, this subsidence cauldron was created when a volcanic eruption caused the lava chamber just beneath the surface of the earth to empty, resulting in the collapse of the roof above it. Within the Askja Caldera lie various volcanoes and craters, including the renowned Viti, which translates to “Hell” in Icelandic. This striking volcano boasts a 60-metre-deep geothermal lake filled with bright blue water at a comfortable 22 degrees Celsius. You’ll embark on a hike to Viti, traversing a volcanic landscape that is often dusted in snow throughout the year. Depending on the advice of Local Rangers, you may have the opportunity to descend into the crater and bathe in its rejuvenating waters.
After exploring the Askja Caldera, you’ll journey to your accommodation, selecting the best location based on travel times. In the event that conditions are unfavorable for visiting the Askja Caldera, an alternative trek in the Hveravellir nature reserve, nestled between two glaciers and boasting geothermal springs for dipping, will be arranged.
Trekking distance approx. 10km.
Included
Private transfer: 4×4 minibus
Accommodation: Guesthouse (twin share basis)
Meals: Breakfast only
Trek Myvatn & Swim Myvatn Nature Baths
After enjoying breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the starting point of your hike in the Myvatn area. Considered one of the most stunning destinations in North Iceland, Lake Myvatn and its surroundings boast unearthly landscapes characterised by deep craters, smoking hot springs, mud pots, fumaroles, and lava fields, all born from an eruption around 2300 years ago.
Your hike will lead you to the Myvatn Nature Baths for a special dip. Despite its distance from Reykjavik, this spot would be just as popular if it were closer due to its beauty. The milky mineral-rich waters are nestled amidst magnificent snow-capped mountains and offer amenities such as two saunas, the main geothermal pool, and a cafe. Following a relaxing time at the Nature Baths, you’ll be whisked away by private minibus for a 50-minute transfer to your final destination: the historic fishing town of Husavik, renowned as the setting for the Eurovision Song Contest film and also ranks in the Lonely Planet’s 12 top places to visit in Iceland in 2024.
Trekking distance approx. 10km.
Included
Private transfer: 4×4 minibus
Accommodation: Guesthouse (twin share basis)
Meals: Breakfast only
Dip in Geosea before returning home
After indulging in breakfast at your hotel in Husavik, your final aquatic adventure awaits at Geosea, home to its rejuvenating geothermal sea baths. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to luxuriate in the mineral-rich hot sea water while soaking in breathtaking views of mountains, Skjalfandi Bay, and even glimpses of the Arctic Circle.
Many believe that visiting Geosea is a healing experience, as the mineral-rich water can revitalise your skin and the warm temperatures (38/39 degrees Celsius) can stimulate blood circulation, relax tense muscles, and leave you feeling utterly refreshed. Following your time at Geosea, you’ll embark on a private transfer lasting 50 minutes to the airport for your return flight home feeling revitalised and invigorated.
Included
Private transfer: 4×4 minibus
Meals: Breakfast only
Supporting local tourism, communities and understanding of Iceland’s diverse environment
We’re keen to promote adventures in countries that are actively working towards sustainable tourism and conservation projects. Given the numerous environmental, cultural and conservation projects in place in Iceland, we’re particularly keen and passionate to help support the local tourism industry here whilst also giving you the chance to get out and explore the pristine landscapes of this incredible country in a safe and fun manner.
This trip has been designed to deliver an amazing experience in the less visited areas of Iceland and showcase some of the otherworldly geologic wonders and Icelandic way of life. It trip also gives you the chance to learn new skills and reconnect with nature.
On booking this trip, you will receive all the exciting trip info via our free travel app. You’ll have access to your itinerary, trip countdown, live updates, contact info, weather forecasts, know before you go trip info, kit lists and much more at the touch of a button 24 hours a day via your mobile phone. No more unnecessary use of reams of paper to benefit the environment and the need of carrying around documents with you. A’ppy days.
With being a small family business we pride ourselves with providing personal, professional and friendly service. We appreciate that everyone has different levels of experience and reasons for wishing to embark on our Hike & Swim adventures and therefore require varying levels of support and guidance. We’re here to help you every step of the way from the moment you join the flock all the way through to completing the challenge and beyond. Jim and Sue’s knowledge and expertise stems from dozens of years of travelling and exploring the UK and Sue being a competent volunteer crew at our local RNLI Lifeboat Station; in order to fully support you in the lead up to your adventure.
Plus having created this adventure, both Jim and Sue are best placed to answer any questions you may have, no matter how big or small. We’re here to help every step of the way.
You will need to fly to Akureyri Airport (AEY / BIAR) Hofsos Iceland.
Flights are not included in your Hike & Swim North Iceland giving you the flexibility to travel from your nearest airport, use any frequent flyer points or extend your stay in Iceland if you wish. We will provide you with the recommended flights for this trip in order for you to take up the airport transfers included in Iceland. Alternately, you can book your flights through our flight agent who is ATOL & ABTA protected.
OUTBOUND TO ICELAND
20 August
Fly from UK (airport of your choice) to KEF Reykjavik Keflavik and overnight in Reykjavik – we can provide recommendations of where to stay.
21 August
Fly from RKV Reykjavik Domestic to AEY Akureyri
Icelandair FI46| Operated by Flugfélag Íslands
15:30 – 16:15 RKV Reykjavik Domestic – AEY Akureyri
INBOUND TO UK
25 August
Fly from AEY Akureyri to RKV Reykjavik Domestic
Icelandair FI47| Operated by Flugfélag Íslands
16:45 – 17:30 AEY Akureyri – RKV Reykjavik Domestic
Overnight in Reykjavik
26 August
Fly from KEF Reykjavik Keflavik to UK.
Adventurous Ewe puts the safety and well-being of you, our leaders & crew and the communities we visit at the centre of all our operations, always. Your safety and well-being is our top priority.
Rest assured we have a thorough Safety Management System, indepth risk assessments and risk management systems in place.
You will be accompanied by our Adventurous Ewe Swim Leader who is a certified Open Water Swim Instructor throughout your trip. Our Instructors have the relevant swimming and lifeguarding qualifications – current SLSGB beach lifeguard, Scottish Swimming Teacher Qualification, Oceanman Open Water Diploma and American Swimming Association Coaching level 1.
Your Local Guide & Driver is one of Iceland’s most experienced Mountain Leaders who has studied Glaciology at The University of Amsterdam.
They’re also a friendly bunch with a huge level of care and a great sense of humour. Rest assured they are fully experienced and first aid qualified. They will be ultimately responsible for the running of the itinerary and the safety of your group.
Leaders will carry safety equipment and first aid kits with them at all times. Please note, these kits are for emergencies only so please come prepared with your own personal first aid items.
Please note, the itinerary is there as a guide and may change due to unusual weather patterns, local conditions, and other unpredictable factors. We will do our very best to keep to the set itinerary; however we cannot be held responsible for any last minute changes that may occur. In all such circumstances, your Local Guide and Swim Instructor will have the final say.
We pride ourselves in small group adventures to minimise the impact on the environment, to maximise your safety & well-being and to make your experience more authentic.
The minimum group size for this trip to run is 7 people. The maximum group size is 12 people.
Our adventures are typically made up of a mix of solo travellers and small groups of two or three friends who simply love adventure, pushing themselves and meeting awesome like-minded people. Over 50% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.
If you have a group of over 6 people, we would be more than happy to run a private trip for you.
For any further info or to chat about running a bespoke trip, we’d love to hear from you at info@adventurousewe.co.uk or call 01492 588 069.
Our Hike & Swim adventures are all about reconnecting with nature and taking the time to immerse yourself and appreciate your natural surrounds. We encourage team spirit and support of each other to ensure everyone has the best opportunity to enjoy the whole experience, learn new skills and witness different ways of life and local cultures. These trips are a fantastic way to meet like-minded people and share an incredible adventure whilst being accompanied and supported by friendly and qualified Adventurous Ewe Leaders and Crew.
With swimming & dipping, it doesn’t matter if you’re an age group champion or a beginner who likes to dip. The coaching will be tailored for you.
The North Iceland Hike & Swim is graded as ‘Medium’ dependent on weather conditions. This trip is designed for people who want to swim & dip at a more relaxed pace, enjoy the scenery and learn new skills (be it cold water dipping or stroke coaching). A good base level of fitness will help you enjoy the trekking.
Swimming: previous open water swimming experience is not required as full instruction and support will be provided. As a safety precaution we recommend that you’re able to swim 25m in distance. If you are not a confident swimmer please let us know so we can make the necessary plans. There’s also plenty of opportunities for dipping and your Swim Leader will always be nearby.
Please note; our swim itineraries are an example of what may take place during your trip and should be used as a guide only. Actual swim locations will vary according to local weather and conditions.
To help you prepare for your trip, we also have exclusive offers with our Training Partners and Communities – Her Spirit and Strength & Movement Coach, Peter Lant. For more info, please visit our Training & Preparation page.
The more you are prepared, the more you will enjoy the challenge.
Our motto is: Train hard, smile harder and enjoy the journey!
A full kit list will be provided when you book on this trip. In summary:
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- Swimming caps
- Swim safety device/Tow float
WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING?
BAG
Soft duffel bag or rucksack for all your kit
CLOTHES
Waterproof jacket (with hood) and trousers
Down jacket or similar
Trousers/shorts/skirts for hiking (not jeans)
T-shirts (merino wool or wick fabric)
Underwear and socks
Sunglasses
Sunhat
Warm hat/beanie
Something to sleep in
Water-proof trail runners or hiking boots which are well worn in
SWIMMING
Swim-suit x 2
Swim goggles x 2 (if you wish to swim as opposed to dipping)
Aqua shoes or neoprene socks
Neoprene gloves and socks (optional)
Beanie for dipping
Quick dry towel
Changing robe or dryrobe (exclusive discount code will be provided for smoc smoc on booking)
OTHER
Mobile phone. It may be a good idea to bring a decent cover for your phone and any other equipment
Suncream
Personal first-aid kit (inc. blister treatment)
Personal items (biodegradable toiletries, sanitary wear etc)
Hand sanitiser
Headlamp
Reusable water bottle (x1 litre)
Water bladder/camelbak or similar for trek (2 litre capacity)
Hot water flask
Favourite snacks and electrolytes
OPTIONAL
Earplugs
Card games
To help you get the very best from your adventure we will provide you with an exclusive Adventurous Ewe discount code to use in independent UK outdoor retailers both online and in store. They offer a large choice of kit that the staff themselves use while climbing, hiking, swimming, running, travelling or enjoying expeditions across the globe and they pride themselves on sharing their experience and knowledge of equipment so you can choose the right gear to suit you and your adventure.
The weather in Iceland can change rapidly so it is essential that you are prepared for all conditions including rain, wind and heat. In the week leading up to your trip we recommend checking the weather forecasts. You will also receive weather updates via our mobile travel app.
Weather Caveat
For safety reasons, we rely on decent weather conditions when carrying out some of our swims. As a consequence,these trips require a certain degree of on-trip flexibility which can result in changes to the planned itinerary. These changes often add a touch of uniqueness to your trip and will be communicated to you by your Adventurous Ewe Swim Instructors and Local Guide as quickly as possible.
Please note, your Local Guide and Swim Instructor/s reserve the right to change the itinerary at any time should the conditions require it as your safety and wellbeing is our top priority at all times. In these circumstances we will make the best alternative arrangements possible that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
4 nights accommodation included in bunk house and 3 star hotel accommodation on a twin share basis.
• Guesthouse Sunnuberg Hofsós
• Guesthouse Bakkaflöt
• Guesthouse Fjalladyrd – Modrudalir
• Fosshotel Husavik
A single room supplement is available at £225 per person.
Food
All breakfasts are included in your travel package. Lunch and dinners are not included giving you the flexibility to order what you wish from local cafes and restaurants.
Drinks
Please bring your own water bottle/s and hot water flasks to refill. This avoids the purchase of single use plastic water bottles.
The impact of single use plastic is having on our landscape, wildlife and oceans, it is now more important than ever that we all make changes in order to help our planet. We may not be a huge global company but we’re passionate about playing our part and trying to make a huge difference collectively. Together we can dramatically reduce our consumption of single use plastics and support our responsible travel ethos of ‘Take nothing but photos, leave nothing but boot-prints, keep nothing but memories.’
You can make a difference too with taking part in this Multi Activity and purchasing one of these environmentally friendly reusable alternative bottles compared to single-use plastic water bottles. Grab a Water-to-Go bottle through Adventurous Ewe and receive a 15% discount. Even better, Water-to-Go will donate a further 15% to our charity partner, Cool Earth. For more info please click here or email us at info@adventurousewe.co.uk to buy your Water-To-Go bottle.
Deposit: £325 per person required on booking and non-refundable
Remaining balance: £1900 per person due for payment no later than 90 days prior to the trip departure date
Total cost: £2225 per person
Monthly payment plan
A monthly payment plan can be arranged for this trip. Please contact us for more information or to set up your plan. Simply email info@adventurousewe.co.uk or call 01492 588 069.
Book & Travel with Confidence
As well as carefully crafting amazing and meaningful adventures across the planet, we’ve made booking them as flexible, safe and as simple as possible.
For the latest info regarding booking and travelling with Adventurous Ewe, please visit our website.
Travel insurance
We strongly recommend taking out travel insurance when booking on this trip. For UK residents we have partnered with Campbell & Irvine to provide you with a travel insurance program. If you would like to obtain cover for your trip please feel free to contact specialist Insurance Brokers, Campbell Irvine Direct for a quote.
All your trip info will be sent to you through our free mobile travel app. You will receive an email from Adventurous Ewe with your personalised log in code for this app.
For the latest and greatest from the land of adventures, simply follow us at:
Facebook: @adventurousewe
Instagram: adventurousewe
LinkedIn: Adventurous-Ewe-Ltd
Youtube: Adventurous Ewe
You are most welcome to use the hashtags
#ewecandoit #thisflockrock #adventurousewe #letsgoadventure
Your Adventurous Ewe crew have radios and mobile phones in case of emergencies. The team are trained to deal with these situations. Please ensure you listen to your Local Guide & Swim Instructor during these times and refrain from putting any posts on social media during this time. Should you find yourself unable to continue with the trip, your crew will make the necessary arrangements. Depending on the situation, you will be met by the support vehicle (depending on access) and you will be transferred back to your accommodation or nearby medical facility as required. Your Emergency Contact at Adventurous Ewe HQ is Jim Young on 07747 346 588.
| Departure & Return | Duration | Availability | Deposit | Total Cost* | (*Total cost includes the deposit) |
| Aug 21, 2024 Aug 25, 2024 |
5 Days | Available | £325.00 | £2225.00 | Book Now |
What's Included?
Pre-adventure:
- Personalised support in the lead up to your trip
- Exclusive discount on personal kit from local eco wild swimming retailer – smoc smoc
- All trip info supplied via our free mobile travel app
- Public liability insurance
- Risk assessment and safety management.
On your adventure:
- 5 day trekking and swimming adventure in Iceland
- Private 4×4 Minibus transfers to and from Akureyri Airport at a designated time and throughout the trip
- 4 nights bunk house and 3 star hotel accommodation (twin share basis)
- Entrance to all sites in the itinerary
- SLSGB Beach Life Guard cover
- Open water coaching
- Local Icelandic Trek Driver/Guide
- Swimming Teaching Association (STA) public liability cover for swimming
- Full back-up support including first-aid qualified staff and first-aid supplies
- Water bottle refilling
- All trip management before, during and post trip.
What's Not Included?
- Return flights to Akureyri Airport, Iceland
- Lunch, dinner and drinks
- Clothing and equipment listed on your Kit List
- Visiting any tourist attractions outside your itinerary
- Personal spending money
- Any expenses incurred with leaving the trip early.
SUSTAINABLE AND RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL
Adventurous Ewe is very proud to have been awarded the Travelife Partner award recognising the long-term efforts we undertake regarding sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility. Travelife is the leading international sustainability certification for the travel sector.
We comply with more than 100 criteria, related to our office management, product range, international business partners and customer information. The Travelife Partner level standard is covering the ISO 26000 Corporate Social Responsibility themes, including environment, biodiversity, human rights, and labour relation.
Adventurous Ewe is committed to delivering adventures in a responsible and ethical manner with sustainability as a core focus. We respect and aim to operate our adventures and events to benefit local people, their economy and the environment!
Some of the ethical trip management features embedded in our North Iceland Hike & Swim Adventure are:
- Using local crew who are qualified and who are all extremely knowledgeable and experienced
- Staying in locally owned accommodation wherever possible
- Minimising plastic waste wherever possible with providing a complimentary Water-To-Go bottle on departure
- We wash, dry and check all our swim clothing and equipment to avoid introducing invasive non-native species
- Where possible, our crew collect any rubbish
- We recycle and reuse wherever possible
- We record our recycleable and general waste from the adventure with the review to measure and reduce
- We always operate by our ‘Leave no travel ethos’ – Take nothing but photos, leave nothing but boot-prints, keep nothing but memories
- By taking part in this trip you are helping us support the climate change charity, Cool Earth
- Please see our Responsible Tourism Policy for more info and some top tips.
TIPS FOR SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL ON THIS TRIP
- Leave no trace: We do all we can to ensure we leave no rubbish behind in the wild and beautiful places we visit; we ask that you do the same.
- Plastic waste reduction: Please bring your own re-usable water bottle/s on this trip.
- Your packaging waste: If bringing some snacks or new items/clothing from home, please remove as much packaging as possible and recycle or responsibly disregard this rubbish.
- Wash, dry and check: All your clothing and equipment before using it again to avoid introducing invasive non-native species to other waterways.
Together, we can all make a difference in helping preserve this precious and wonderful planet.
Difficulty