6 Unique Yoga Retreats in Iceland You Need to Know About [2023]
Iceland is a land of stunning natural beauty and tranquility, making it the perfect destination for a yoga retreat. In this blog post, we’ll explore the best yoga retreats in Iceland.
With Iceland’s geothermal hot springs, dramatic landscapes, and proximity to the Arctic Circle, it offers a truly unique and unforgettable yoga retreat experience. I am a nature, hot spring, and sauna LOVER so this is a dream location for me.
Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or a beginner seeking a peaceful escape, Iceland has something for everyone. So, pack your yoga mat, get ready to unwind, and let’s discover the magic of yoga in Iceland!
In a hurry? Here are my top two picks:
- 6-Day Summer Solstice Yoga and Hiking Holiday
- 8-Day Yoga Holiday and Local Excursions with Sarah Dippen
6 Best Yoga Retreats in Iceland
If you haven’t already, add an Iceland yoga retreat to your bucket list. Iceland’s landscape is like nothing you have ever seen before. Covered in waterfalls, geysers, volcanoes, black sand beaches, and otherworldly steaming lava fields.
It may not be the first place you think of when your think of a yoga retreat, but its dramatic scenery, seclusion, and adorable, clean, quaint towns make for a special experience.
1. 6-Day Midnight Sun Golden Circle Retreat
⭐ 4.6/5
Location: Laugarvatn, Iceland (1 hour from Reykjavik)
Dates: June 7 – 12, 2023
Highlights: Midnight sun, Fontana hot springs
This retreat takes place during the midnight sun, a natural phenomenon that occurs during the summer months when the sun remains visible for 24 hrs a day. This is a very cool phenomenon to witness but make sure you bring an eye mask!
You will take twice-daily yoga classes; Vinyasa in the morning and Yin/Nidra in the evening (or at midnight!). Included is a 3-hour hike from the property and an excursion to Fontana hot springs.
You’ll stay at a historic guesthouse in Laugarvatn right on the lake. Option for a shared or private room. Laugarvatn is in the center of the Golden Circle so there is a lot to do in every direction. The guesthouse is also right next to the natural steam baths of Fontana.
2. 6-Day Summer Solstice Yoga and Hiking Holiday
⭐ 4.75/5
Location: Akureyri, Iceland (a small town in the north)
Dates: July 16-20, and August 6-10, 2023
Highlights: Yoga in the middle of Icelandic nature, several excursions, midnight sun
It is said that when the sun shines around the clock in Iceland life vibrates. During this 5-day retreat, you will practice yoga twice daily. First, you’ll practice in the morning in a modern Yoga Studio. And in the afternoon, you’ll practice in the middle of Icelandic nature.
Additionally, you will visit the famous Myvatn volcanic landscape, hike to a waterfall, take a ferry to the fjord, and more. This is an active retreat with a good amount of yoga, hiking, and exploration each day.
Stay in sweet refurbished apartments with a shared pool and hot tub area.
3. 8-Day Yoga Holiday and Local Excursions with Sarah Dippen
⭐ New!
Location: Akureyri, Iceland (a small town in the north)
Dates: September 9 – 16, 2023
Highlights: Northern lights, local guide, horseback riding, whale watching
At this retreat, you will have an opportunity to learn about the culture, history, and unique geography of Iceland, and experience the Northern Lights. Each day will be accompanied by a professional guide who will share information and local folklore during the excursions.
All yoga classes are held at One Yoga Global, a beautiful yoga and wellness center in Akureyri. You will go on a trek to see the Northern Lights, tour Hrisey Island, ride horses, go whale watching, and more!
Stay in private apartments with geothermal jacuzzis, centrally located in Akureyri. This is one of my top picks for yoga retreats in Iceland.
4. 5-Day Meditation and Yoga Retreat
⭐ 4.95
Location: Laugarvatn, the heart of the Golden Circle
Dates: June 27 – July 1, 2023
Highlights: Qigong, Fontana hot springs, lots of mindful movement
Hosted by Sagrada Wellness, this 5-day retreat begins each day with a Qigong and meditation practice, followed by a late morning invigorating yoga class. Enjoy free time until your restorative evening practice.
Stay at Héraðsskólinn Hostel in Laugarvatn. Rooms are cozy and comfortable, simple and elegant. Private and shared rooms are available. This retreat has lots of time to relax or explore on your own.
5. 6-Day Northern Lights Autumn Yoga Holiday and Hike Retreat in Akureyri
⭐ 4.75/5
Location: Akureyri, Iceland
Dates: October 15 – 20, 2023
Highlights: Hiking, waterfalls, hot springs, troll mountains
Each morning will start with a 1.5-hour yoga sequence. Depending on the weather, it may be held indoors or outdoors. Most days yoga is followed by an afternoon excursion. A lot of the excursions will involve hiking – usually 2 to 2.5 hours of hiking.
You will stay in a private or shared bright and spacious apartment in the charming town of Akureyri. The apartments have private terraces and shared Jacuzzis.
6. 8-Day Iceland Ashtanga Yoga Retreat
⭐ New!
Location: Laugarvatn, Iceland
Dates: September 17 – 24, 2023
Highlights: Northern lights, free time during the day for exploring alone or with the group
September is a great time to visit Iceland because the weather is still pleasantly warm and the Northern Lights are starting to appear in the sky.
Traditional Ashtanga Classes will be conducted each morning. During the day will be free time to explore nature and late afternoon you will gather together for a workshop, meditation, and sky gazing. In the past, some retreat participants have opted to rent a car to maximize their free time during the day. I recommend renting through Discover Cars.
Stay at Héraðsskólinn Historic Guesthouse where private and shared rooms are available. This option makes this retreat attainable for all budgets.
Why Iceland is a Surprisingly Amazing Yoga Retreat Destination
Iceland is a unique and beautiful destination for a yoga retreat for several reasons. Here are some reasons why Iceland is a great place to practice yoga and wellness:
- INSANE Natural Beauty: Iceland is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including glaciers, geysers, waterfalls, and hot springs. These natural wonders provide the perfect backdrop for yoga and meditation practices.
- Clean Air and Water: Iceland’s clean air and water are some of the purest in the world. This makes it an ideal location to breathe deeply, detoxify your body, and enhance your yoga practice.
- Sense of Isolation: Iceland’s remote location and vast landscapes create a sense of isolation and tranquility. This can help you disconnect from the stresses of everyday life and find a deeper connection to yourself and your practice.
- Wellness Culture: Iceland has a strong culture of wellness, with a focus on natural and holistic health. This is reflected in the many hot springs, spas, and wellness retreats throughout the country.
- Adventure: Iceland is also known for its adventurous spirit, with a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and horseback riding. These activities can complement your yoga practice and help you feel more connected to the natural world.
As you can see, Iceland has an incredible combination of natural beauty, seclusion, wellness culture, and adventure activities. This makes it an ideal destination for a yoga retreat.
What is the Best Time to Visit Iceland?
The best time to visit Iceland depends on your interests and what you want to see and do while you’re there. Iceland experiences a wide range of weather and daylight hours throughout the year.
If you want to see Iceland’s famous Northern Lights, the best time to visit is from September to mid-April. The peak season for Northern Lights sightings is from November to February.
If you’re interested in outdoor activities like hiking, horseback riding, and whale watching, the summer months (June-August) are the best time to visit. The weather is generally mild, and the days are long, with up to 24 hours of daylight in some parts of the country.
If you’re looking to avoid crowds and save money on accommodations and activities, consider visiting Iceland in the shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) or fall (September-October). The weather can be unpredictable during these times, but you’ll have more flexibility and opportunities to experience Iceland’s natural beauty in relative solitude.
Overall, there is no one “best” time to visit Iceland, as each season has its own unique attractions and challenges. It’s important to plan your trip based on your interests and preferences.
Yoga Retreats in Iceland: FAQ
Yes, yoga is popular in Iceland. Over the past decade, yoga has become increasingly popular in Iceland, with more and more Icelanders discovering its physical and mental benefits.
Yoga studios have sprung up all over the country, and there are many qualified yoga teachers offering a wide range of classes, from gentle Hatha yoga to dynamic Vinyasa flows. Iceland’s stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, glaciers, and hot springs, also make it an ideal location for yoga retreats and outdoor yoga classes.
In recent years, a number of international yoga retreats have set up shop in Iceland, attracting yogis from all over the world who are looking to combine their yoga practice with Iceland’s breathtaking scenery and rejuvenating geothermal pools.
Iceland is home to some of the world’s most stunning natural landscapes, including glaciers, waterfalls, hot springs, and volcanoes. The country’s unique geological features make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers.
It is also one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. Iceland is home to a number of natural hot springs and spas, which are believed to have healing properties. The country is also known for its clean air and water, making it a popular destination for those seeking wellness and relaxation. And, Iceland has a vibrant arts and music scene and has become a model for sustainable tourism.
Yes, English is widely spoken in Iceland. In fact, English is taught as a second language in Icelandic schools, and many Icelanders speak English fluently. It’s also common for signage and menus in tourist areas to be written in both Icelandic and English.
That being said, the official language of Iceland is Icelandic. It is always respectful to learn a few simple words in the official language, like “takk”, meaning thank you.
The amount of time you need to spend in Iceland depends on your interests, travel style, and budget. However, in general, most travelers recommend spending at least 5-7 days in Iceland to truly appreciate the country’s natural beauty and unique culture.
If you’re interested in outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and exploring Iceland’s remote regions, you may want to consider spending 10 days or more in the country.
The average high temperature in the summer (June-August) is around 13-14°C (55-57°F), with lows around 7-9°C (45-48°F). However, temperatures can vary widely and in some parts of the country, temperatures can sometimes reach up to 20°C (68°F) or higher. Always be prepared for the possibility of rain or wind, which are common in Iceland no matter the season.
In July, Iceland experiences the longest days of the year, with almost 24 hours of daylight in some parts of the country. The exact number of daylight hours varies depending on your location in Iceland. It can range from 18-24 hours of daylight in July.
No, there are no polar bears in Iceland. Polar bears are native to the Arctic regions and are found primarily in areas surrounding the North Pole, including Greenland, Norway, Canada, and Russia.
Well, in my humble opinion, I would say that the 8-Day Yoga Holiday and Local Excursions with Sarah Dippen is the best yoga retreat in Iceland in 2023.
Wrap-Up
As you can see, Iceland offers an unparalleled combination of nature, wellness, culture, and adventure, making it the perfect destination for a yoga retreat. Whether you’re looking to unwind in hot springs or challenge yourself with outdoor activities, Iceland offers a supportive environment for your yoga practice and wellness journey.
I hope this list of the best yoga retreats in Iceland has helped you find the perfect retreat to suit your needs and desires.
You’re sure to find a deep sense of relaxation, rejuvenation, and inner peace during your yoga retreat in this truly unique and breathtaking country!
Don’t forget travel insurance! I use SafetyWing.
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