Luxury Iceland: The High End Guide

Iceland's reputation as a destination for rugged adventurers and budget backpackers is well-earned, but the island nation has quietly emerged as one of Europe's most sophisticated luxury travel destinations. From volcanic helicopter tours to Michelin-starred dining, Iceland offers exclusive experiences that rival the world's premier destinations whilst maintaining its raw, untamed character.

Where to Stay: Iceland's Premier Properties

The Retreat at Blue Lagoon

The crown jewel of Icelandic luxury accommodation sits within the UNESCO Global Geopark, where guests enjoy private access to the Blue Lagoon's mineral-rich waters. The 62-suite hotel, opened in 2018, features floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the otherworldly lava fields. Suites start at 180,000 ISK (€1,250) per night, with the 87-square-metre Retreat Suite commanding 320,000 ISK (€2,200). The property's Moss Restaurant, helmed by chef Agnar Sverrisson, sources ingredients from the on-site greenhouse where tomatoes grow using geothermal energy.

Hotel Rangá

Located 100km southeast of Reykjavík in Hella, this luxury lodge offers unparalleled Northern Lights viewing from October through March. The property's observatory features a professional-grade telescope, whilst suites include private hot tubs positioned for aurora watching. The Presidential Suite spans 120 square metres and costs 89,000 ISK (€620) per night. Hotel Rangá's location beneath the Eyjafjallajökull glacier provides dramatic mountain vistas and proximity to premium Golden Circle experiences.

Deplar Farm

This remote property in the Troll Peninsula transforms a 1930s sheep farm into a 13-room ultra-luxury retreat. Accessible only by private helicopter from Akureyri Airport (45-minute flight), Deplar Farm specialises in heli-skiing from February to May and salmon fishing during summer months. Rates start at 290,000 ISK (€2,000) per night including all meals, activities, and helicopter transfers.

Exclusive Experiences

Private Volcanic Helicopter Tours

Helicopter company Nordurflug operates bespoke tours from Reykjavík Domestic Airport, with exclusive access to active volcanic sites. Their premium Westman Islands experience includes landing at Surtsey, the world's youngest island formed during the 1963-67 eruptions. The four-hour private tour costs 480,000 ISK (€3,350) for up to four passengers, including champagne service and expert geological commentary.

Luxury Northern Lights Experiences

Beyond standard aurora tours, companies like Luxury Adventures Iceland offer private Northern Lights expeditions in modified super jeeps equipped with heated leather seating and panoramic glass roofs. Their premium package includes a private chef preparing traditional Icelandic cuisine at remote locations, priced at 125,000 ISK (€870) per person with a minimum of four guests.

Ice Cave Expeditions

Into the Glacier provides exclusive access to man-made tunnels within Langjökull, Iceland's second-largest glacier. Their VIP experience includes private snowcat transport from Húsafell (32km journey) and personalised ice sculpture workshops within the glacier. The five-hour experience costs 89,000 ISK (€620) per person, with champagne reception 155 metres below the glacier's surface.

Culinary Excellence

Michelin-Starred Dining

Reykjavík's DILL restaurant, awarded Iceland's first Michelin star in 2017, exemplifies Nordic cuisine using indigenous ingredients. Chef Gunnar Karl Gíslason creates tasting menus featuring fermented shark, Icelandic langoustine, and herbs foraged from Westfjords cliffs. The seven-course tasting menu costs 16,900 ISK (€118), with wine pairings adding 9,900 ISK (€69).

Exclusive Culinary Tours

Salt Eldhús offers private culinary adventures combining foraging expeditions with cooking classes. Their premium Westman Islands experience includes helicopter transport to Heimaey, puffin watching, and preparation of traditional Icelandic feast using locally sourced ingredients. The day-long experience costs 168,000 ISK (€1,170) per person.

Luxury Shopping and Culture

66°North and Icelandic Design

Reykjavík's premium shopping centres on Laugavegur and Skólavörðustígur, where 66°North's flagship store showcases technical outerwear worn by Arctic expeditions. Icelandic design house Farmers & Friends creates bespoke woollen garments using traditional techniques, with custom sweaters starting at 45,000 ISK (€315).

Private Cultural Experiences

The National Museum of Iceland offers after-hours private tours for groups of up to 12 people, providing exclusive access to Viking artefacts and medieval manuscripts. The two-hour experience, led by senior curators, costs 180,000 ISK (€1,250) per group.

Planning Your Luxury Iceland Journey

Best Times for Luxury Travel

May through September offers midnight sun experiences and accessible highland routes, whilst October through March provides Northern Lights viewing and exclusive winter activities. Luxury properties typically offer lowest rates during shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October).

Transportation

Private jet services operate from Keflavík International Airport, with companies like GlobeAir providing Citation Mustang aircraft from European capitals. Helicopter transfers between properties eliminate lengthy road journeys whilst providing aerial perspectives of volcanic landscapes.

Investment in Experiences

Luxury Iceland experiences command premium pricing, but the country's unique geological features and limited accessibility create genuinely exclusive opportunities. Budget 500,000-750,000 ISK (€3,500-5,200) per person for a comprehensive four-day luxury itinerary including premium accommodation, private guides, and helicopter experiences.

Iceland's luxury tourism sector continues expanding, with new high-end properties planned for the Westfjords and highland regions. The country successfully balances exclusivity with environmental responsibility, ensuring luxury experiences complement rather than compromise Iceland's pristine natural heritage.

Getting around Iceland is easiest by car. Compare rental options and find the best deals on Discover Cars — free cancellation available.

Browse and book tours and activities on GetYourGuide — glacier hikes, whale watching, northern lights tours, Golden Circle day trips and hundreds more. Instant confirmation, free cancellation on most bookings.

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