Since the beginning of time, philosophers and scientists of ancient cultures identified the five classic elements of earth, water, air, fire and aether (void or spirit). The powerful quintet has established the basis of western astrology, informed principles of Buddhism, Hinduism and Ayurveda, and occupied the minds of Aristotle and other great thinkers. They present an elusive common thread whose significance carries across all time periods and cultures.
Through all the corners of the world our travels have taken us, no singular country seems to best simultaneously embody the principles of these powerful elements via natural geographic wonder and the unique experiences it presents than Iceland. From the fiery volcanos and steaming hot springs, to clear glacial waters and majestic roaring waterfalls, a full exploration of Iceland is sure to be an unforgettable journey connecting you like never before to deeply resonate with the classic elements.
Paper & Diamond is pleased to partner with Nordic Luxury, a boutique destination management company specializing in, among other Nordic destinations, Iceland. The agency has built a flawlessly reputable history over the past decade plus, pioneering indelible moments with clients as they firsthand experience weightless service in couture travel. With our combined expertise we have fashioned a prospective itinerary which unfolds below, containing what we consider to be some of the unmissable moments of an Icelandic trek. Though, as customary with Paper & Diamond we are happy to tailor an adventure to your exact specifications; simply get in touch here to open the dialogue.
EARTH
REYKJAVIK WALKING TOUR
Commence your Icelandic adventure by planting feet firmly on the Earth following your flight in, with a private food walk and guided tour of Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital city. Partnering with one of Nordic Luxury’s local experts allows for the benefit of exploring both the well-known must-sees, as well as discovering hidden gems and secret local destinations not readily advertised to tourists, for a fully immersive introduction of Reykjavik.
FRIDHEIMAR FARM
A sense of rootedness and connecting back with the Earth is a certain perk of a stop at Fridheimar farm, an Icelandic family run business and working farm. It is where a husband’s passion for horticulture and wife’s passion for raising horses combine, breeding both organic heirloom tomatoes and equine on the same beautiful property. Crops are sustainably grown in special greenhouses powered by geothermal heating from Iceland’s natural subterranean supply. The family operates a restaurant on-site as well, with tomatoes as the menu’s cornerstone, delighting the palette in everything from quintessential tomato soup to the more unexpected tomato schnapps.
BLACK SAND BEACHES
Iceland’s black sand beaches are an illustration of the beautiful creativity available on this Earth. Get up close and personal with a terrain like you’ve never seen before as part of an ATV safari tour of the southland’s Thorlakshofn, a key port city along the southern border. Diamond Beach is perhaps the most unique of the black sand beach options, given the glacier formation breakaways that have washed ashore to present a stunning icy contrast with the sand.
WATER
THE BLUE LAGOON
Of course one of Iceland’s most unmissable sights is the legendary Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa located in a lava field, supplied by geothermal power. The lagoon’s shades of milky blue result from the silica content, which also creates a white mud. Both the water and the mud are renowned for their healing powers. Year round the waters are found at 102° F. It is little wonder National Geographic has added it to their list of top 25 Wonders of the World.
LAKE HVITARVATN KAYAK TOUR
Take to the glassy smooth, glacial light blue waters of Lake Hvitarvatn by kayak. This beautiful lake is part of Iceland’s interior, up in the highlands. It is an outlet of the second largest glacier in Iceland, lending to the presence of small icebergs upon the lake’s surface.
ADDITIONAL BOATING TOURS
Perhaps you are interested in witnessing the beautiful song and dance of whales in nature. Iceland is Europe’s top whale watching destination, rife with ample opportunity to view humpback whales, minke whales, Northern bottlenose whales and blue whales in their natural habitat. Nordic Luxury also supports a private cruise via zodiac boat in the Jokulsarlon ice lagoon, as pictured above, where you’ll likely share the waters with seals as you navigate through the milky white and bright blue icebergs during sunrise or sunset.
AIR
PRIVATE HELICOPTER TOURS
Viewing the rolling landscapes and geographic variances across Iceland via the air is an experience allowed to only a lucky few. Imagine a full day helicopter expedition of the Southeast coast of Iceland, cruising over waterfalls, volcanos and glaciers as you learn all about the land of fire and ice. An incredibly special treat comes with a touchdown on Vatnajokull, Europe’s largest glacier.
GLACIER SNOWMOBILING
Inhale some of the purest, icy air in the world while zipping across Langjokull glacier on a private snowmobiling trip. As pillowy clouds surround you, you will truly feel as though you are on top of the world (little wonder, the ice cap is actually situated nearly 4,800 above sea level). Langjokull is also home to stunning ice caves well worth an exploration of.
GULLFOSS WATERFALL
When you first come upon Gullfoss waterfall, it may appear as though this flowing white river disappears into thin air. However, as you approach closer you will see how in actuality, it plunges into a a deep crevice at a thunderous roar. Breathing in the glacial spray is rejuvenating, and on a sunny day this spray can form a rainbow bridge across the torrent.
FIRE
VOLCANIC ACTIVITY SITES
Iceland is host to a variety of volcanic activity, and the fiery effects of this geographic wonder create all kinds of interesting landmarks to interact with. There are the geothermal hot sulfuric mud springs of Namaskaro, where no vegetation grows due to the soil acidity. At times it looks practically otherworldly, as though you’ve just transported to an entirely different planet. Kerid volcanic crater lake is a 3,000 year old South Iceland landmark. The vivid aquamarine of the mineral water contrasts with the red volcanic rock juxtaposing the fire and ice concept Iceland is so well known for. Just a short stop away is the famous geyser, ‘Geysir,’ which hurls boiling water upwards of 225 feet into the air and has been active an impressive 10,000 years.
RAUFAROLSHELLIR LAVA TUNNEL
5,200 years ago, the Leitahraun volcanic eruption occurred, with lava cutting a path through the mountains to create cave formations in this area. During the winter, ice sculptures form in the cave entrance creating an impressive look at how powerful nature’s forces can be. Embark on a guided tour under the earth’s surface into a volcanic lava tunnel.
GEOTHERMIC BAKING
One sensorial pleasure not to be discounted during your Icelandic journey through the element of fire is the fruits of a geothermic baking labor. Laugarvatn Fontana is a geothermal spa allowing for this unexpected treat. Following relaxation in the steam baths and hot springs, indulge in a slice of bread baked buried in the ground.
AETHER
THE NORTHERN LIGHTS
Aether, the fifth element, can refer to a variety of different concepts, but typically has to do with unexplainable natural phenomena such as light and gravity. Aurora borealis, or the Northern lights, occur when atoms are energized by colliding with the atmosphere; this certainly fits the bill as one such inexplicable example of aether. The peak season for visibility in Iceland is September through March. Nordic Luxury’s guides are experienced in hunting the awe inspiring sight and advise on the best night to do so.
THE BLUE LAGOON RETREAT SPA
In some interpretations aether or quintessence was a heavenly quality that was thought to be a factor in alchemy, and promoting longevity through removal of impurities and illnesses. Naturally it follows that we classify an Icelandic spa experience removing the stressors and promoting heavenly feelings of relaxation as a way of connecting with the fifth element. The suite structures of the Retreat Spa at the Blue Lagoon are carved into the 800 year old lava flow and surrounded by mineral-rich glacial waters. Utter revjuvenation of mind, body and soul await in this underground realm of inspiring design and radiant wellness. Particular treatments include the three treasures of geothermal seawater: silica for radiance and cleansing, algae for anti-aging, and minerals for exfoliation and revitalization. It is the perfect destination to focus holistically on wellness.
Through the deeply rewarding experience of encountering the classic elements like never before in Iceland, you just may find the stage set for examining your own personal core truths. Iceland presents us with the opportunity to meditate upon what foundational pillars of our own lives we find to be the most vitalizing, rendering it one of those inexplicable trips where the journey remains with you, informing transformation long after you have departed the destination itself. To learn more, visit our Contact page to get in touch. Your five-fold foray into the land of fire and ice awaits.