Mindful Running | Geysers and Glaciers | Geothermal Hot Springs | Black Sand Beach | Giant Waterfalls
Explore Southern Iceland in a way that leaves you plenty of time to tune in to what drives you in running and in life. Indulge in a week of things that are sure to feed your soul: travel, adventure, fun, mindfulness and great food. Through our practical mindful running clinics, informative discussions, and free time for self care, you’ll stop the energy drains and divert your energy back into your running.
During this fully supported seven-day, six-night women’s trail running retreat, you’ll run each day in a different location and is as inspiring as it is breathtakingly beautiful. Rather than finish this week feeling tired, you’ll come away rejuvenated and refreshed, thanks to Iceland’s incredible wild natural beauty, fresh Arctic air, pristine water and warm hospitality.
You’ll run its world-famous black sand beach, run within view of its fiery volcanoes and (if the weather permits) see its gleaming glaciers. Run through a steaming valley, fed by powerful geothermic activity and see up close a geyser shoot hot water high into the air and lounge in hot pools set among clusters of columnar basalt rock. New this year, we'll also visit Diamond Beach and enjoy a boat ride in a glacier-fed lagoon. Cap your week in Iceland with a luxurious soak at the world-famous Sky Lagoon geothermal hot springs, whose mineral-rich waters will soothe your muscles and joints.
Become a durable, strong, motivated runner using these tools and techniques that will keep you healthy and injury free. Immerse yourself in the powerful healing energy of this vibrant, wild landscape as you run scenic trails at a pace that is playful, relaxed and social.
This Retreat is Level II
This retreat is rated Level II. This means it’s suitable for you if:
You’re comfortable running six days in a row. Our shortest run is 30 minutes, but most are between 2 to 3 hours (including hiking sections, water breaks and photo ops).
You have some experience running on trails and have the fitness to run at least 8 miles on the road.
You’re OK with running/hiking on trails with loose dirt, rocks, mud, and potentially one knee-deep river crossing.
You’re OK with getting your shoes wet in small streams.
You’re comfortable on high and exposed, and at times narrow, trails.
You’re game for running in the rain! (Don’t worry about what to wear; we provide you with a comprehensive packing list).
You don’t mind sharing a room (single travelers are matched with roommates) and sleeping in a mountain hut (equipped with cozy bedding, pillows, towel, full bathroom, showers, electricity, WIFI and running water).
You have (or are willing to acquire before the retreat) trail running shoes.
The total run distance for this retreat will be between approximately 32 to 38 miles. Each day’s run in this itinerary is represented by time spent on the trail rather than miles run because the mileage covered will depend largely on your run pace. Faster runners will cover more mileage than slower runners on some days. These run times include breaks to enjoy the views, take photos, eat and drink. The precise route and trails run may change due to changes to trail routes, weather conditions, guide recommendations and other safety considerations.
Note that trail running in Iceland can be challenging at times. Your retreat leader will provide mindful running tips and techniques for managing your pace and navigating the uneven terrain.
This Retreat is Level II
This retreat is rated Level II. This means it’s suitable for you if:
You’re comfortable running six days in a row. Our shortest run is 30 minutes, but most are between 2 to 3 hours (including hiking sections, water breaks and photo ops).
You have some experience running on trails and have the fitness to run at least 8 miles on the road.
You’re OK with running/hiking on trails with loose dirt, rocks, mud, and potentially one knee-deep river crossing.
You’re OK with getting your shoes wet in small streams.
You’re comfortable on high and exposed, and at times narrow, trails.
You’re game for running in the rain! (Don’t worry about what to wear; we provide you with a comprehensive packing list).
You don’t mind sharing a room (single travelers are matched with roommates) and sleeping in a mountain hut (equipped with cozy bedding, pillows, towel, full bathroom, showers, electricity, WIFI and running water).
You have (or are willing to acquire before the retreat) trail running shoes.
The total run distance for this retreat will be between approximately 32 to 38 miles. Each day’s run in this itinerary is represented by time spent on the trail rather than miles run because the mileage covered will depend largely on your run pace. Faster runners will cover more mileage than slower runners on some days. These run times include breaks to enjoy the views, take photos, eat and drink. The precise route and trails run may change due to changes to trail routes, weather conditions, guide recommendations and other safety considerations.
Note that trail running in Iceland can be challenging at times. Your retreat leader will provide mindful running tips and techniques for managing your pace and navigating the uneven terrain.
About Iceland
We’ve run in many parts of the world, yet none has delivered as much natural beauty and reward as this wild place. The ever-changing weather is a constant presence and demands our constant respect and preparedness. Our team provides the daily support you need to run well and be well.
Land of the Northern Lights and the Midnight Sun, of Viking heritage and the most modern design imaginable, of magical folklore and friendly people, Iceland sits at the top of Europe with an abundance of history, metropolitan atmosphere, sublime dining and incredible natural landscapes. Iceland is home to some of the largest glaciers in Europe and some of the world’s most active volcanoes. Iceland is also the land of light and darkness. The Icelandic people of whom there are only 350,000, are some of the world’s friendliest and most welcoming people, not to mention their extreme pride for their culture beautiful country.
Our daily mileage varies from 4 to 9 miles, with most of it on trails of various surfaces. Some areas will be easy (soft, packed dirt and pebble paths), while other areas will be challenging, including steep ascents and descents on trails that can become muddy when wet. For this reason, trail-running shoes are mandatory.
About Iceland
We’ve run in many parts of the world, yet none has delivered as much natural beauty and reward as this wild place. The ever-changing weather is a constant presence and demands our constant respect and preparedness. Our team provides the daily support you need to run well and be well.
Land of the Northern Lights and the Midnight Sun, of Viking heritage and the most modern design imaginable, of magical folklore and friendly people, Iceland sits at the top of Europe with an abundance of history, metropolitan atmosphere, sublime dining and incredible natural landscapes. Iceland is home to some of the largest glaciers in Europe and some of the world’s most active volcanoes. Iceland is also the land of light and darkness. The Icelandic people of whom there are only 350,000, are some of the world’s friendliest and most welcoming people, not to mention their extreme pride for their culture beautiful country.
Our daily mileage varies from 4 to 9 miles, with most of it on trails of various surfaces. Some areas will be easy (soft, packed dirt and pebble paths), while other areas will be challenging, including steep ascents and descents on trails that can become muddy when wet. For this reason, trail-running shoes are mandatory.
The Food
The food in Iceland is rich and delicious, yet simple and not highly seasoned. Icelandic people savor the natural flavors found in the vegetables, seafood and meats that are dietary staples.
You’ll enjoy fresh-caught seafood like chard, cod and haddock. Beef is rare, though lamb is another local favorite. Icelandic yogurt, butter and cheese is very rich, full of fat and flavor.
Most vegetables are grown in massive geothermal-heated greenhouses found throughout the country’s inhabited areas.
Most meals are included in your retreat package, and we handpick high-quality restaurants for unforgettable culinary experiences.
We cater to your special dietary needs. You'll have a chance to indicate your specific dietary requirements in the retreat participant intake form.
Please note that alcoholic drinks are excluded, and snacks and beverages outside of meals and trail runs are not included.
The Food
The food in Iceland is rich and delicious, yet simple and not highly seasoned. Icelandic people savor the natural flavors found in the vegetables, seafood and meats that are dietary staples.
You’ll enjoy fresh-caught seafood like chard, cod and haddock. Beef is rare, though lamb is another local favorite. Icelandic yogurt, butter and cheese is very rich, full of fat and flavor.
Most vegetables are grown in massive geothermal-heated greenhouses found throughout the country’s inhabited areas.
Most meals are included in your retreat package, and we handpick high-quality restaurants for unforgettable culinary experiences.
We cater to your special dietary needs. You'll have a chance to indicate your specific dietary requirements in the retreat participant intake form.
Please note that alcoholic drinks are excluded, and snacks and beverages outside of meals and trail runs are not included.
The Weather
The weather in Iceland can be summarized in one word: wet! Prepare for wet weather so if we’re treated to sunny, dry conditions (which does happen!), then it’s a bonus. Especially when we’re running along the southern coast, it can be cool and windy, and rain is highly likely. The average daytime temperatures are in the low- to mid-fifties, though it can reach the 60s on a sunny day. In the packing list we’ll supply for you, we highly recommend lightweight rain pants and a waterproof-breathable rain jacket. It won’t be raining the whole time, but for those times it is raining, you’ll be glad to have the right gear!
The Weather
The weather in Iceland can be summarized in one word: wet! Prepare for wet weather so if we’re treated to sunny, dry conditions (which does happen!), then it’s a bonus. Especially when we’re running along the southern coast, it can be cool and windy, and rain is highly likely. The average daytime temperatures are in the low- to mid-fifties, though it can reach the 60s on a sunny day. In the packing list we’ll supply for you, we highly recommend lightweight rain pants and a waterproof-breathable rain jacket. It won’t be raining the whole time, but for those times it is raining, you’ll be glad to have the right gear!
An ideal place to take a deep breath, experience adventure and enjoy the luxury of an exceptional hotel. Thanks to the mix of cool concrete, glass and warm materials such as driftwood and lava stone from the surrounding area, the member of the design hotels blends harmoniously into its surroundings. The spectacular façade and all the furniture are made from natural, recycled materials, while bed linen and towels are made from fair-trade cotton. In the Lava Spa you will be pampered with natural Icelandic care products and you can marvel at the fascinating nature from the heated outdoor pool.
An ideal place to take a deep breath, experience adventure and enjoy the luxury of an exceptional hotel. Thanks to the mix of cool concrete, glass and warm materials such as driftwood and lava stone from the surrounding area, the member of the design hotels blends harmoniously into its surroundings. The spectacular façade and all the furniture are made from natural, recycled materials, while bed linen and towels are made from fair-trade cotton. In the Lava Spa you will be pampered with natural Icelandic care products and you can marvel at the fascinating nature from the heated outdoor pool.
The Hotel Vik í Mýrdal is a modern Art Deco hotel located a short walk from the Black Sand Beach. The rooms are designed in a contemporary, nature-inspired style by noted Icelandic architect Guðbjörg Magnúsdóttir. Every room comes with blackout curtains, a wardrobe, complimentary WiFi, a flat-screen TV, telephone, desk, coffee, and tea. Furthermore, each room’s large bathroom offers a walk-in tiled shower, towels, a hairdryer and both natural and organic skincare products that are made in Iceland from wild herbs. As with typical hotels in Iceland, the two double beds can be slid apart to crate a little extra space between you and your roommate.
The Hotel Vik í Mýrdal is a modern Art Deco hotel located a short walk from the Black Sand Beach. The rooms are designed in a contemporary, nature-inspired style by noted Icelandic architect Guðbjörg Magnúsdóttir. Every room comes with blackout curtains, a wardrobe, complimentary WiFi, a flat-screen TV, telephone, desk, coffee, and tea. Furthermore, each room’s large bathroom offers a walk-in tiled shower, towels, a hairdryer and both natural and organic skincare products that are made in Iceland from wild herbs. As with typical hotels in Iceland, the two double beds can be slid apart to crate a little extra space between you and your roommate.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon + Diamond Beach
Breiðamerkursandur, also known as "Diamond Beach" gets this nickname from the icebergs from the nearby Breiðamerkurjökull glacier that break away and bob through the famous Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon before setting out to sea. Some blocks of ice get stranded on the beach, creating the illusion of large diamonds.
Enjoy an optional one-hour Jökulsárlón boat tour that will take you to the secret and quiet places where you'll experience incredible peace and spectacular glacial scenery. This tour takes place in an open-air Zodiac, making for an exhilarating experience, so dress warmly! Our guides will supply a flotation suit or life vest. Get ready for a tour that will take you to Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier, into the deep serenity of the lagoon.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon + Diamond Beach
Breiðamerkursandur, also known as "Diamond Beach" gets this nickname from the icebergs from the nearby Breiðamerkurjökull glacier that break away and bob through the famous Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon before setting out to sea. Some blocks of ice get stranded on the beach, creating the illusion of large diamonds.
Enjoy an optional one-hour Jökulsárlón boat tour that will take you to the secret and quiet places where you'll experience incredible peace and spectacular glacial scenery. This tour takes place in an open-air Zodiac, making for an exhilarating experience, so dress warmly! Our guides will supply a flotation suit or life vest. Get ready for a tour that will take you to Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier, into the deep serenity of the lagoon.
Sky Lagoon Geothermal Hot Springs
Your retreat package includes a two-hour soak in the natural geothermal hot springs known as The Sky Lagoon. Authentic Icelandic culture meets nature’s awe-inspiring beauty at Sky Lagoon. Discover a natural oasis like no other located in the heart of breathtaking Iceland, just minutes from downtown Reykjavík.
Sky Lagoon Geothermal Hot Springs
Your retreat package includes a two-hour soak in the natural geothermal hot springs known as The Sky Lagoon. Authentic Icelandic culture meets nature’s awe-inspiring beauty at Sky Lagoon. Discover a natural oasis like no other located in the heart of breathtaking Iceland, just minutes from downtown Reykjavík.
Mindful Running Clinics
Learn how to run more mindfully to become a better runner. This includes natural running form clinics during which you'll learn about the Power Posture: use proper alignment to make gravity do more of the work. This reduces the muscular force involved with running so it feels easier and less strenuous on muscles and joints.
Focus on efficiency: Use natural running techniques to drastically improve efficiency. You'll practice changing stride length, cadence and tempo on various types of terrain. Then put the pieces together to achieve the ultimate trail running experience. Learn to cultivate the circumstances for flow to occur by being relaxed and mindful.
Mindful Running Clinics
Learn how to run more mindfully to become a better runner. This includes natural running form clinics during which you'll learn about the Power Posture: use proper alignment to make gravity do more of the work. This reduces the muscular force involved with running so it feels easier and less strenuous on muscles and joints.
Focus on efficiency: Use natural running techniques to drastically improve efficiency. You'll practice changing stride length, cadence and tempo on various types of terrain. Then put the pieces together to achieve the ultimate trail running experience. Learn to cultivate the circumstances for flow to occur by being relaxed and mindful.
Dedicated Retreat Leader
Our highly trained retreat leaders provide the space and support for you to have a potentially transformational experience. As experts in mindful leadership, she provides valuable guidance on how to be mindful on and off the trail. Here's more about what you can expect from your retreat leader:
Leads the opening meeting on Day 1, explaining what you can expect, the general flow of each day, what's expected of you, how she'll support you and all the other logistics you need.
Works with our local staff, such as guides and drivers, to keep things safe, on schedule and running smoothly
Leads mindful running clinics that teach you how to run more efficiently and with more flow and ease
Manages the pace of each run so that you never feel rushed or get left behind
Helps you get to scheduled events like yoga class, spa appointment and dinner reservations on time
Facilitates sharing circles, creating a safe space for the group to reflect and share openly
Provides emotional support if ever you need it
Dedicated Retreat Leader
Our highly trained retreat leaders provide the space and support for you to have a potentially transformational experience. As experts in mindful leadership, she provides valuable guidance on how to be mindful on and off the trail. Here's more about what you can expect from your retreat leader:
Leads the opening meeting on Day 1, explaining what you can expect, the general flow of each day, what's expected of you, how she'll support you and all the other logistics you need.
Works with our local staff, such as guides and drivers, to keep things safe, on schedule and running smoothly
Leads mindful running clinics that teach you how to run more efficiently and with more flow and ease
Manages the pace of each run so that you never feel rushed or get left behind
Helps you get to scheduled events like yoga class, spa appointment and dinner reservations on time
Facilitates sharing circles, creating a safe space for the group to reflect and share openly
Provides emotional support if ever you need it
Run Wild Retreats Gift Bag
Items may vary slightly from what is shown here based on product availability.
Run Wild Retreats Gift Bag
Items may vary slightly from what is shown here based on product availability.
Friðheimar Tomato Farm
Have you ever been out for a meal in a greenhouse? At Friðheimar, tomatoes are grown all year round, despite Iceland’s long, dark winters, under artificial lighting in greenhouses. Tomatoes are the theme of Friðheimar cuisine – and that’s not surprising, since three different varieties of tomato are cultivated in the greenhouses. Enjoy this unique dining experience in a charming environment among the plants.
Friðheimar Tomato Farm
Have you ever been out for a meal in a greenhouse? At Friðheimar, tomatoes are grown all year round, despite Iceland’s long, dark winters, under artificial lighting in greenhouses. Tomatoes are the theme of Friðheimar cuisine – and that’s not surprising, since three different varieties of tomato are cultivated in the greenhouses. Enjoy this unique dining experience in a charming environment among the plants.
Add-on
+US$38
Transformational Travel Journal
Register by 16 Jun 2023
One of the best ways to deepen your experience with mindfulness during and after your retreat is to add the Transformational Travel Journal to your package. This co-branded journal by Run Wild Retreats in partnership with the Transformational Travel Journal provides an intentional space to write, draw, sketch and otherwise creatively express what meaning this travel experience has for you. Filled with thoughtful writing prompts, inspirational quotes and mindfulness-inspired ideas, we highly recommend using this journal to help you enhance your mindful running experience.
Transformational Travel Journal
Register by 16 Jun 2023
One of the best ways to deepen your experience with mindfulness during and after your retreat is to add the Transformational Travel Journal to your package. This co-branded journal by Run Wild Retreats in partnership with the Transformational Travel Journal provides an intentional space to write, draw, sketch and otherwise creatively express what meaning this travel experience has for you. Filled with thoughtful writing prompts, inspirational quotes and mindfulness-inspired ideas, we highly recommend using this journal to help you enhance your mindful running experience.
Add-on
+US$142
Mindful Inspiration Running Kit
Register by 14 Jul 2023
The Mindful Running Inspiration Kit is filled with custom items that will support and inspire you to consistently practice your healthy running habits.
Get inspired to continue your practice every time you reach for your mindful running gear, and take to the streets and trails knowing you are feeding your soul and fueling your good health in the long run.
Your Mindful Running Inspiration Kit Includes:
“I Run Mindfully” women's technical run t-shirt
Run Intention Bracelet
27-oz Stainless Steel Klean Kanteen bottle with sport cap
“I Run Mindfully” vinyl stickers (pack of 2)
Mindful Running Training Log
“Run Mindfully” Intention Bracelet
Share and celebrate the joy of maintaining a daily running practice, while reminding you that no matter where you take your shoes — from Moab to the Mediterranean — you’re part of a community of healthy runners who support you on this path. Shipping is FREE!
Mindful Inspiration Running Kit
Register by 14 Jul 2023
The Mindful Running Inspiration Kit is filled with custom items that will support and inspire you to consistently practice your healthy running habits.
Get inspired to continue your practice every time you reach for your mindful running gear, and take to the streets and trails knowing you are feeding your soul and fueling your good health in the long run.
Your Mindful Running Inspiration Kit Includes:
“I Run Mindfully” women's technical run t-shirt
Run Intention Bracelet
27-oz Stainless Steel Klean Kanteen bottle with sport cap
“I Run Mindfully” vinyl stickers (pack of 2)
Mindful Running Training Log
“Run Mindfully” Intention Bracelet
Share and celebrate the joy of maintaining a daily running practice, while reminding you that no matter where you take your shoes — from Moab to the Mediterranean — you’re part of a community of healthy runners who support you on this path. Shipping is FREE!
Your Packing List
ON THE TRAIL
One pair of trail running shoes (required)
Hydration pack (we recommend a vest pack rather than a waist pack) with pockets for carrying food and extra clothes and water (required)
💡Plus: warm hat, gloves and lots of layers! You can expect considerable wind and rain in Iceland.
OFF THE TRAIL
Day pack (~20 L)*
Casual clothes (dining is informal)
Shoes for casual wear
Warm jacket for cool evenings
Bathing suit
Journal
Small, lightweight camera (or phone)
Plug adapter (if traveling outside North America) for electronic devices
Ear plugs (for sleeping)
Sleeping attire suitable for shared sleeping quarters if sharing a room
Other personal items/apparel and toiletries (shampoo, soap, conditioner, lotion, sunscreen, etc).
*You’ll use this day pack for extra clothing, snacks and personal items (not for running). You’ll have access to it while traveling in the van, when large luggage is not accessible.
For ease of transport between hotels, please limit your luggage to one carry-on (backpack as described above is recommended) and one wheeled suitcase.
💡Note: Trail running shoes and a hydration pack are required items.
Trail running shoes offer better traction than road shoes and will positively impact your retreat experience. Everyone is required to carry water with them. Also recommended are some electrolyte tablets you can put in your water. We will supply food and energy snacks to eat during the runs.
Your Packing List
ON THE TRAIL
One pair of trail running shoes (required)
Hydration pack (we recommend a vest pack rather than a waist pack) with pockets for carrying food and extra clothes and water (required)
💡Plus: warm hat, gloves and lots of layers! You can expect considerable wind and rain in Iceland.
OFF THE TRAIL
Day pack (~20 L)*
Casual clothes (dining is informal)
Shoes for casual wear
Warm jacket for cool evenings
Bathing suit
Journal
Small, lightweight camera (or phone)
Plug adapter (if traveling outside North America) for electronic devices
Ear plugs (for sleeping)
Sleeping attire suitable for shared sleeping quarters if sharing a room
Other personal items/apparel and toiletries (shampoo, soap, conditioner, lotion, sunscreen, etc).
*You’ll use this day pack for extra clothing, snacks and personal items (not for running). You’ll have access to it while traveling in the van, when large luggage is not accessible.
For ease of transport between hotels, please limit your luggage to one carry-on (backpack as described above is recommended) and one wheeled suitcase.
💡Note: Trail running shoes and a hydration pack are required items.
Trail running shoes offer better traction than road shoes and will positively impact your retreat experience. Everyone is required to carry water with them. Also recommended are some electrolyte tablets you can put in your water. We will supply food and energy snacks to eat during the runs.
Itinerary
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We recommend flying to Keflavik International Airport in Reykjavik on or before Day 1 of the retreat. The retreat program officially begins at 1:00 p.m. on Day 1 at the Fosshotel Reykjavik located at Þórunnartún 1, 105 Reykjavík.
On day 7, you have the option to be dropped at the Keflavik International Airport at around 2:00 p.m. or at a central location in downtown Reykjavik. You should allow 3 to 4 hours for check in for your return flight home to the U.S. (including time for the DHS Customs Preclearance).
Please note you must have a valid passport. Please check with the Icelandic travel authorities to see if there are any other documents you require to enter the country. Travel requirements are changing rapidly these days, and while we will do our best to keep all travelers up-to-date, it is ultimately your responsibility to meet the country's entry requirements.
Flybus
We recommend the RE Flybus Service from the airport to the Fosshotel Reykjavik in downtown Reykjavik. You can book it once you arrive at the airport (though you may have to wait in line) or in advance online here: https://www.re.is/tour/flybus/
When selecting your destination, choose "Fosshotel Reykjavik" from the drop-down menu of destinations.
WHAT TO DO IF YOUR FLIGHTS ARE DELAYED ON YOUR WAY TO THE RETREAT:
Your retreat will start in Reykjavik at 1:00pm with our welcome meeting at the Fosshotel Reykjavik.
Following the welcome meeting, there will be a shake-out run through Reykjavik, ending back at the Fosshotel Reykjavik at 3:45pm.
The coach will depart the Fosshotel Reykjavik promptly at 4:15pm for the ION ADVENTURE HOTEL, located in Nesjavellir
If you are able to arrive at the Fosshotel Reykjavik before 4:15pm, you can meet the group there. If your flight is delayed beyond that, you will need to arrange transportation to the Ion Adventure Hotel (please be aware that it takes approximately 50 minutes to 1 hour to get to the hotel from the airport)
If you are unable to meet the group before 4:15pm, transfers can be booked online through the hotel HERE
The cost for a private transfer is between 21,000ISK-39,000ISK ($220-$300 USD), depending on the available vehicle size. Please note, transfers are subject to availability.
Alternatively, taxis are readily available at Keflavik International Airport; after arriving and collecting your luggage, make your way to the taxi rank outside the airport. Instruct your driver to take you to the Ion Adventure Hotel located in Nesjavellir. The cost of a taxi is approximately 15,000ISK ($115 USD), although this cost is subject to change based on your time of arrival.
Hold on to your receipts, as you can submit these to your travel insurance for reimbursement.
IF YOU ARE ARRIVING TODAY: When you arrive at Reykjavik International Airport, take a Flybus to downtown Reykjavik and walk to the Fosshotel Reykjavik (Þórunnartún 1, 105 Reykjavík). Enjoy some free time to explore the city and grab some lunch (on your own) before meeting the retreat group at 1 p.m.
Please make sure you've eaten lunch and changed into your run clothes before joining the group.
Starting promptly at 1:00 p.m. and find your retreat leader in the Svartifoss meeting room at the Fosshotel Reykjavik where you will have your retreat opening meeting, during which you’ll meet your fellow participants and review expectations of the flow of the week’s itinerary.
After the meeting, you’ll enjoy a guided mindful run to the Pearl, a key landmark in Reykjavik’s cityscape that will help you shake off the travel and get grounded.
After the run, you’ll have a few minutes to change before the one-hour drive to our hotel, located just outside the city, yet feels a world away. We’ll stay at the modern Ion Adventure Hotel for the next three nights, and have dinner here this evening.
Time on trail: 1.5 hours, including stops and clinics
After breakfast at the hotel, be sure to pack a small daypack with some post-run clothes and footwear to put on after the run (stored in the motorcoach while you run).
This morning we have a short drive to “Steam Valley,” which is a highly scenic valley featuring extensive geothermal activity. Its proper name is Reykjadalur, where we'll meet our Icelandic running guide and do a loop run on the popular hiking trails that will take us past everything from small gurgling melting pots to vibrant super heated pools of water.
After a casual lunch in the nearby town of Hveragerði (on your own), and have some time to do some shopping, then we’ll return to the hotel for a relaxing afternoon enjoying the hotel’s amenities and pool.
This evening your retreat leader will lead you through a sharing circle before another gourmet chef-prepared dinner.
Time on trail: 2 – 3 hours (including stops and run clinic)
After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll drive a short distance to Strokkur for a shorter run today on roads and paths that will lead us to one of Iceland’s most famous and active geysers. The eruptions of Strokkur can happen between five and twelve minutes, and can even reach up to 40 meters high. Today’s run is about recovery, so we’ll keep the pace relaxed and our minds curious to the fascinating sights we’ll see along the way.
Then we’ll drive to the nearby Friðheimar Tomato Farm for a late lunch inside the greenhouse, surrounded by lush tomato plants. After lunch, we’ll return to the hotel for a free afternoon to soak in the pools, relax, or go for a walk.
Join the group for dinner at the onsite restaurant to enjoy local Icelandic flavors. We'll share highlights from the day and prep for tomorrow.
After breakfast, we check out of our rooms and drive to Skogar, where we’ll run the stunning Waterfall Trail. This out-and-back route will take us to the top of the Skogafoss waterfall and and beyond, all the while offering up spectacular views of surrounding mountains and the active glacier-capped volcanoes of Godaland in the distance. After the run, change into some dry clothes, we’ll enjoy a pre-packed picnic lunch, then continue our journey to Reynisfjara, known as the world’s most beautiful black-sand beach, where we’ll see the iconic Reynisdrangar in the distance and columnar basalt rock formations, and may even see some puffins. From there it’s a short drive to the modern Hotel Vík, where we’ll stay for the next three nights. After checking into our rooms, we’ll enjoy dinner in the Berg dining room.
After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll meet our guides for today’s spectacular trail run along the bluff overlooking Vik’s black-sand beach. At today’s mindful running form clinic, your retreat leader will offer some valuable tips on pacing that will help make the most of today’s run. Today’s run begins in Vik and then head up to the top of a plateau overlooking Reynisfjara. If the weather is clear, we’ll get spectacular views of Dyrhólaey peninsula to the west and glacier-covered volcanoes to the north. Our looping route (with a short and longer option), eventually takes us all the way back to our hotel in Vik, you”ll be free to have lunch on your own followed by some free time to enjoy local activities such as horseback riding on the beach or an ice cave tour (not included), inquire upon check-in. This evening is dinner at Sudurvik, a cozy, traditional restaurant situated in an old house serving their own family recipes.
Today's itinerary is relaxed, allowing for some additional free time. However, please be prepared for a longer day tomorrow.
Prepare for a longer day today. This morning enjoy an optional early morning group run in Vik before breakfast at the hotel. In the late morning, we’ll depart for a day tour to some must-see sights along the southern coast, including Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, where we’ll enjoy a short run, have a picnic lunch and then continue to Diamond Beach and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. These stunning ice blocks were once part of the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, which, after breaking away from the glacier, floated down to the lagoon. You’ll have the option to participate in a 45-minute boat tour around the lagoon, after which we’ll have dinner at Glacier Lagoon Restaurant before returning to Vik for the night. Following dinner, anticipate a longer drive returning to the hotel.
This morning you have the option to go on a short run around Vik’s roads and trails before breakfast at the Hotel Vik before we check out. Our driver will then pick us up for the longer drive to the Sky Lagoon for this afternoon’s Pure Package Experience starting at 11 a.m.. Lunch is on your own at the Sky Lagoon Cafe.
After enjoying the Sky Lagoon experience, you will have the option to be taken to the Keflavik International Airport (for evening flights) or the city center if you are extending your stay in Iceland. Our motorcoach will leave the Sky Lagoon at 1:00 pm, arriving at the Keflavik International Airport at approximately 2 p.m.
We highly recommend that you allow 3 to 4 hours for check-in for your international flights.
Your retreat package includes a two-hour soak in the natural geothermal hot springs known as The Sky Lagoon. Authentic Icelandic culture meets nature’s awe-inspiring beauty at Sky Lagoon. Discover a natural oasis like no other located in the heart of breathtaking Iceland. Your retreat package includes an afternoon wellness experience here, including the Seven-Step Sky Ritual, which will leave you feeling revitalized and rejuvenated after your week on the trails.
• Two nights’ at the ION Adventure Hotel
• Two nights’ accommodation at the Hotel Vik
Your Retreat Package
INCLUDED:
Three nights at the ION Adventure Hotel
Three nights at Hotel Vik
6 breakfasts
3 lunches
6 dinners in high-quality restaurants
Daily guided mindful runs
Private ground transportation during the retreat
Dedicated Retreat Leader
Glacier Lagoon boat tour
Mindful Running Clinics
Trail snacks
Sky Lagoon Wellness Package
Run Wild Retreats gift bag
Transportation to Keflavik International Airport on Day 7 (arriving at 4 pm)
EXCLUSIONS:
Flights to Iceland
Alcoholic drinks
Other incidentals
Guide gratuity
Transportation from airport to Reykjavik on Day 1
Travel/cancellation insurance
Anything else not listed under “What’s Included”
REFUNDABLE BOOKINGS UPDATE
If you booked a "Refundable Booking" option for your deposit, please be aware that this option is no longer available for your balance payment. The portion of your payment that was booked as "Refundable" may still be eligible for refund if you meet the requirements for a claim as explained here: https://refundable.me/.
INCIDENTALS
Guests are responsible for their own incidental expenses at the hotels, personal purchases, some lunches, snacks (outside of the runs) and alcoholic drinks in the restaurants. Please have cash on hand to pay for drinks during dinner.
GUIDE GRATUITY
At the end of the retreat, your retreat leader will collect cash (U.S. dollars) from all retreat participants as a gratuity for local guides. You may provide the amount that feels right to you; we recommend offering $40 - $60 dollars cash, which will be shared between the guides. Your retreat leader will place the group's gratuity inside a thank-you card and present it to the guides on everyone's behalf.
HOW TO REGISTER:
Simply click the "Book This Retreat" in the footer below and secure your spot with a deposit payment.
Your Balance Due must be paid by the deadline indicated prior to departure or your deposit will be forfeited.
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