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.
Our tailor made journeys include:
- Your dedicated Travel Consultant who will take care of arrangements
- Private international airport transfers in destination
- 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
- Complimentary access to My Scott Dunn – industry-leading travel app providing pre-departure information and in-journey support
When to visit
- J
- F
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- A
- M
- J
- J
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- S
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- D
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.
Itinerary
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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, personalized, 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)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
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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 Theater, 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 theater.
Where to stay
The Merrion (2 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
More Experiences in This Area
Experiences in this tour
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View ExperienceVisit the Westman Islands
Explore Heimaey in complete privacy, from Eldfell’s volcanic heights to secluded cliffs and puffin colonies, with private guides, intimate local traditions, and a personalized island adventure far from the crowds.
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View ExperienceNorthern Lights Hunt
Escape Reykjavik’s lights and journey into Iceland’s wilderness with a private guide, tracking the elusive Northern Lights. Witness the Aurora Borealis shimmer across the night sky in serene isolation, with the magic of the Arctic unfolding before you.
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View ExperienceSouth Coast Safari
Discover Iceland’s dramatic South Coast with a private guide, thundering waterfalls, black-sand beaches, volcanic cliffs, and glacier vistas—an exclusive journey into one of the country’s most captivating and varied landscapes.
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View ExperienceSilfra Snorkeling between Tectonic Plates
Drift between continents in the crystal-clear waters of Silfra, where visibility stretches to 100 meters. A serene, dreamlike snorkeling experience revealing Iceland’s most ethereal underwater world.
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View ExperienceSnowmobiling on langjokull
Conquer Langjökull, Iceland’s majestic “long glacier,” on a private snowmobile adventure. Feel the thrill of the ice beneath you while taking in sweeping views of the south coast and untouched glacial wilderness.
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View ExperienceSnaefellsnes Peninsula
Explore Iceland’s mystical Snæfellsnes Peninsula privately, from Kirkjufell’s iconic peaks and cascading waterfalls to remote fjords and fishing villages, where geology, legend, and supernatural allure converge.
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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 ExperienceGlacier hiking
If adventure is high on your vacation checklist, hiking on one of Iceland's monumental glaciers is a must. An immense wonderland of ice sculptures, ridges and deep crevasses await discovery!
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View ExperienceSouth Coast to Jökulsárlón Tour
Explore Iceland’s dramatic south coast in private, from black sand beaches and legendary sea stacks to towering waterfalls, glacier tongues, and charming coastal villages, in a journey of legend, wonder, and breathtaking scenery.
We design each itinerary around you, so this suggested itineraryis a starting point that we can tweak or transform into something completely personalized to you. Call us on 858 345 1764 to start planning your vacation.