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 rated Level II. This means it’s suitable for you if:
Learn more about how we manage run pacing here: https://runwildretreats.com/about-the-run-wild-retreat-experience/levels/
About the Run Distances
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.
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 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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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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.
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.
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:
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!
ON THE TRAIL
💡Plus: warm hat, gloves and lots of layers! You can expect considerable wind and rain in Iceland.
OFF THE TRAIL
*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.
Reykjavík, Iceland 
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