Wonders of the North: Iceland and Ireland
Discover Iceland’s glaciers, geysers, and volcanoes, then explore Ireland’s castles, coastlines, and cultural highlights. Private guides, exclusive access, and exceptional experiences make this a seamless journey through two of Northern Europe’s most iconic destinations.
Journey highlights
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Expert guides – Insightful private guides reveal Iceland’s landscapes and Ireland’s castles and coastlines.
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Iconic sights, exclusive access – See glaciers, geysers, Dublin Castle, and the Cliffs of Moher in a unique way.
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Authentic experiences – Horseback riding, superjeep tours, falconry, and castle afternoon tea.
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Seamless travel & stays – VIP transfers and handpicked hotels for effortless comfort.
Speak to an expert to personalise this tour
Our team of travel specialists are waiting to help you book your dream adventure.
Enquire NowItinerary
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At a Glance
Day 3 – Golden Circle & Hrunalaug Hot Spring
Venture on a private Golden Circle tour, avoiding the crowds yet seeing all the iconic highlights: Þingvellir National Park, the bubbling Geysir area, and Gullfoss waterfall. Your guide adjusts the pace to your curiosity, revealing hidden gems along the way. Later, relax in Hrunalaug, a secluded, privately owned hot spring. Its mineral-rich waters offer soothing relief amidst the Icelandic countryside. Here, luxury is intimate and authentic—a moment to connect with nature, unwind, and experience the warmth of Icelandic hospitality in a setting few visitors access.
Day 4 – Hidden Worlds & Geothermal Helicopter
Discover Hafnarfjörður’s mystical side with a private ‘Hidden World Walk’. Your storyteller-guide leads you through enchanting parks and secret corners, revealing tales of elves and hidden folk. In the afternoon, take to the skies on a private helicopter tour with Norðurflug. Fly over geothermal fields, lava plains, and power plants, touching down in a remote location to witness Iceland’s subterranean energy up close. Conclude with a stunning aerial view of Reykjavík—a rare perspective combining myth, adventure, and nature’s elemental power.Day 5 – Icelandic Cuisine & Blue Lagoon Retreat
Delight in a four-course Icelandic tasting menu at Matarkjallarinn, crafted to highlight local ingredients and culinary heritage. Afterwards, journey to the Blue Lagoon Retreat, set in an 800-year-old lava field. Immerse yourself in geothermal waters, relax in a private changing suite, and enjoy the spa’s sophisticated treatments. This day blends indulgence with nature, offering both serenity and spectacle, culminating in a transformative experience that only Iceland can provide.Day 6 – Departure
Your private guide transfers you back to Keflavík International Airport through the Reykjanes Peninsula, giving one last glimpse of mossy lava fields and volcanic landscapes. Travel is smooth, personalised, and stress-free, leaving you with lasting memories of Iceland’s dramatic beauty and the rare privileges only a Scott Dunn itinerary provides.
Where to stay
The Reykjavik EDITION (3 nights)
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At a Glance
Day 7 – Arrival & Dublin Castle
Arrive in Dublin and enjoy VIP airport assistance, bypassing queues before a private transfer to the elegant The Merrion. Unwind with a traditional Irish welcome of tea, scones, and clotted cream by the fire. In the afternoon, your private guide leads a tour of Dublin Castle, from the opulent State Apartments to the Medieval Undercroft, revealing centuries of history from Viking defences to presidential ceremonies. Finish the day with dinner at the two-Michelin-starred Patrick Guilbaud, sampling contemporary Irish cuisine in a refined, art-filled setting.
Day 8 – Dublin’s Hidden Stories
Discover Dublin’s social and cultural history with a private visit to the Little Museum of Dublin. Hear quirky tales from Queen Victoria to U2, all collected through public donations. Go behind the scenes at the Abbey Theatre, exploring wings, costume departments, and the green room, gaining insight into Ireland’s theatrical heritage. Conclude with dinner at the two-Michelin-starred Chapter One before attending a world-class performance at the Abbey, enjoying prime seating and the full impact of Ireland’s national theatre.
Where to stay
The Merrion, Dublin (2 nights)
Our tailor made journeys include:
- Your dedicated Travel Consultant who will take care of arrangements
- Private international airport transfers in destination and your own private, English-speaking local guides
- Unique experiences, hand-picked by our Journeys team
- Entrance to must-see local sites
- Dedicated 24/7 team providing in-country support and guidance
When to visit
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Nordic climate - May, June and July are the driest months of the year. Mid-June to August is high season, but most highland tours don’t operate until July because of snow. At other times, many tourist facilities outside Reykjavík are closed. From September through March, the night is dark enough to see the Aurora Borealis.
Experiences in this tour
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View ExperienceSouth Shore safari
On this amazing guided safari you will see the South Shore’s most treasured natural sights, including impressive waterfalls, epic landscapes, as well as its black lava sand beaches and dunes.
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View ExperienceThe Golden Circle
Iceland's ruggedly beautiful and tectonically active landscape offers some amazing natural attractions, known as the "Golden Circle". These include the Gullfoss waterfall, Strokkur Geysir and Thingvellir National Park.
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View ExperienceSnorkelling between Tectonic Plates
Snorkel the crystal-clear waters of Iceland's Silfra fissure and discover the secret underwater canyon located between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.
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View ExperienceATV tour in the Reykjanes peninsula
Explore the Reykjanes peninsula on an exhilarating ATV experience, driving across stunning black sand beaches and through dramatic scenery. Start on the easy terrain of the beaches as you get to grips with your ATV before exploring rugged landscapes.
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View ExperienceSnowmobiling on langjokull
Meaning 'the long glacier', Langjökull makes for a thrilling snowmobile experience. Join your private guide as you ride across the surface of the glacier and take in the incredible views of Iceland's south coast.
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View ExperienceJökulsárlón private tour
Visit the breathtaking Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and witness bright blue icebergs floating across the lagoon's glassy surface, with the Vatnajökull glacier towering in the background. A magnificent sight, this makes for a truly unforgettable experience.
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View ExperienceSnowmobiling in the Troll Peninsula
Explore the mountains of the stunning Troll Peninsula on the back of a snowmobile, taking in the incredible views as you speed across the snow. During the winter, look out for the Northern Lights dancing through the sky above.
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View ExperienceGiljabod canyon baths
Explore the beauty of western Iceland with a gentle hike through Husafell canyon, passing by incredible scenery before reaching the Giljabod pools, hidden in the canyon, to enjoy a relaxing soak in the geothermally-heated water.
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View ExperienceWhale watching from Snaefellsnes
The Snæfellsnes Peninsula in the west of Iceland is regarded as one of the best places to observe orca whales in their natural habitat. In the summer, you may spot an array of other whale species too, including minke and humpback whales.
We design each itinerary around you, so this suggested itineraryis a starting point that we can tweak or transform into something completely bespoke to you. Call us on 020 8682 5040 to start planning your holiday.
