Discover Iceland: A Travel Consultant’s Insight into Lagoons, Glaciers & Golden Circle Magic

Travel Consultant: Sade Aspire Travel

Role: Operations Executive Destination: Iceland (Reykjavík, Golden Circle & Glacier) Trip Type: Short Break / Personal Holiday turned Educational

Trip Dates: 24th to 28th November 2025

What was the purpose of this trip?

This started as a personal short break but quickly turned into an on-the-ground educational. I wanted to experience Iceland properly so I can share honest, first-hand advice with our clients – from how it feels to land, drive and explore, to what each day actually looks like in real time.

It’s now officially my new favourite destination I’ve ever been to. 💙

Where did you stay and what stood out?

I based myself in Reykjavík, which is the perfect gateway for:

• Blue Lagoon on arrival or departure

• Golden Circle day trips

• Glacier and snowmobile adventures

• Easy access to restaurants, bars and sightseeing

  
  

Reykjavík itself feels cosy, colourful and compact – you can walk to most places, discover little streets, and always find somewhere serving something warm and delicious. The mix of modern city and wild nature on the doorstep is what really stood out.

What excursions or experiences did you have?

This was a classic short Iceland itinerary, but it packed a huge punch:

Day 1 – Arrival & Blue Lagoon

• Landed early, collected the hire car and headed straight to the Blue Lagoon.

• The warm, milky-blue water is the ultimate post-flight reset – steam rising, lava rocks all around, pure calm.

• Spent the evening wandering Reykjavík, admiring Hallgrímskirkja lit up against the night sky and finishing the day with comfort food in the city. Not a bad start at all. 💙❄️

Day 2 – Golden Circle Highlights

• Geysir Geothermal Area – watched steaming geysers erupt right in front of us; such an incredible display of nature.

• Þingvellir National Park – walked between tectonic plates surrounded by history, drama and views.

• Gullfoss Waterfall – the power and scale are something photos just can’t capture.

• Brúarfoss Waterfall – a hidden gem with unbelievably blue water.

• Even caught a dusting of snow, which made everything feel extra magical. ❄️✨

Day 3 – Snowmobiling on a Glacier

• Headed up near Gullfoss to join a snowmobile adventure on a glacier.

• This was the big “money comes back, time doesn’t” moment – a once-in-a-lifetime experience gliding over endless white.

• Adrenaline, silence, scenery… surreal and absolutely worth every penny. 🗻

Final Day – Reykjavík & Coastal Walks

• Wandered Reykjavík’s streets, explored local spots and soaked up the atmosphere.

• Visited the iconic Sun Voyager sculpture overlooking the water.

• Enjoyed more Icelandic cuisine and made the most of those last, dramatic views.

Every moment felt like stepping into a postcard.

Standout experiences / “wow” moments

• Snowmobiling on a glacier – the sheer scale, silence and sense of adventure.

• Floating in the Blue Lagoon after an early flight – total switch-off.

• Standing at Gullfoss and feeling the power of the waterfall.

• Seeing Reykjavík from above with Hallgrímskirkja lit up at night.

All together, it’s the kind of trip that stays with you for a long time.

Were there any surprises?

• How calm and relaxed Iceland felt, even when doing big, bucket-list activities.

• The variety of landscapes in such a short time – lava fields, waterfalls, glaciers, city and sea.

• How quickly it became my new favourite destination – it just gets under your skin in the best way.

Food & drink

Expect wholesome, comforting food – think:

• Warming dishes ideal for cold days

• Good coffee shops and bakeries in Reykjavík

• A real focus on quality over quantity

It’s not all exotic or “out there” – you can easily find familiar, cosy options as well.

Travel experience

Flying into Iceland was straightforward and stress-free. Once you land, it feels very easy to navigate – whether you’re hiring a car or joining organised tours. Transfers and logistics can all be smoothed out in advance so you spend more time exploring and less time worrying.

Top tips for clients

• Pack layers: Icelandic weather can change quickly – think base layers, mid-layers and a good coat.

• Footwear: Wear comfortable, waterproof trainers or walking boots – you’ll be on your feet a lot.

• Essentials:

  • Hat, gloves, scarf

  • Power bank for your phone (you’ll take a lot of photos!)

  • Swimwear for the Blue Lagoon or other geothermal pools

• Budget: Factor in excursions – the big-ticket experiences are where the real magic is.

Would you go back?

In a heartbeat.

One trip isn’t enough – I’d go back to:

• Explore different seasons (hello, Northern Lights and midnight sun).

• Visit more waterfalls and hidden spots.

• Try new lagoons, new food, and maybe even take things a bit slower.

Iceland is one of those destinations that keeps calling you back.

If you’re inspired by Iceland or want advice tailored to your travel style, get in touch with the Aspire Travel team today. Whether you’re planning a couples’ getaway, a family holiday, or your next bucket-list adventure, we’ll help make it seamless, memorable, and exactly what you’re looking for.

Call us, email us, or pop into one of our stores – your next dream holiday starts here!