Romantic Weekend in Iceland

Day 1: After our morning arrival into Iceland we were transported to The Retreat, checked in, deposited our luggage and headed off to the Lava Cove which we booked for 6 hours. This private oasis within the blue lagoon was a large private suite with fruit trays, chocolates and champagne. We ordered lunch, relaxed on heated spa chairs, had scheduled massages(some of us had the in-water massage, a highlight of the spa) and floated in the Blue Lagoon while enjoying each other's company and the fireplace. We had the option of floating into the public areas as well as trying out the body treatments available to anyone who purchases a ticket to the spa portion of the Blue Lagoon(the spa entry was included with our stay at The Retreat, but we opted to upgrade to this private suite). It was heavenly. After a wonderful relaxing day we headed to an early dinner where we toured the wine cellar and then enjoyed a multi course set menu at Moss, a Michelin-starred restaurant located on the grounds of The Retreat. Off to bed, with a romantic viewing of the stars and our fingers crossed for a late night call that we would see the northern lights (the hotel will call your room if requested if the lights are making a showing).

Images courtesy of @dinewithdana

Day 2: After a fabulous breakfast (included at The Retreat) we headed out for a Lava Tunnel tour at Raufarhólshellir. The lava tube formed during a volcanic eruption and is one of Iceland's longest caves and is easily accessible from both Reykjavik and the Blue Lagoon. The guides walking us through this naturally formed tube were fabulous and the opportunity to wear hard hats and learn about this natural occurrence was a highlight of our weekend. If the Lava Tunnel is not what you are looking for there are local hikes (even in the winter), ice cave tours, helicopter sightseeing tours, as well as tours of the golden circle all easily accessible from The Retreat. After a day out in the tunnels we relaxed at afternoon tea/coffee in the lobby and then changed into our city nightlife clothes and headed to Reykjavik for a fabulous dinner at Sumac Grill. Truly Reykjavik is a foodies city — so many options to choose from! Once again fingers crossed for the call from the hotel to come out for the northern lights.

Day 3. Hard to believe we will be heading home late this afternoon. We relaxed this morning at the spa again and then a fabulous lunch at the spa restaurant! Sadly we needed to leave paradise and head back home to the U.S. I guess the lack of northern lights viewing means I will be back and I can’t wait!

Images courtesy of @dinewithdana

There are multiple nonstop flights from the US (Washington D.C., New York, Boston, Orlando, Chicago, Denver, Detroit, Minneapolis, Portland, Raleigh-Durham and Seattle). For a quick weekend trip, it is doable and completely relaxing and enjoyable but you can also explore the country by extending it to 7-10 days. My Key takeaways for Iceland if I had to sum it up in a few words: Romance, Food, Friends and Fun!

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Iceland. In need of further inspiration? Check out Rabia Malik’s guide, 5-Day Itinerary to Explore Iceland’s Natural Beauty.