Iceland and the Faroe Islands: A Nordic Odyssey

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About the Nordic Odyssey

Iceland and Faroes: A Nordic Odyssey is an adventure through two of the North Atlantic’s most captivating and culturally rich destinations. For nine unforgettable days, you’ll hike across fresh lava fields, explore glacier landscapes, snorkel between tectonic plates, and dine with local families in places where time seems to stand still.

In Iceland, your guide is Sævar (below left), a lifelong farmer deeply connected to the land and traditions of his country. With him, you’ll explore the steaming Gunnuhver Hot Springs, hike the dramatic Sólheimajökull glacier, relax in the geothermal Sky Lagoon, and even snorkel the crystal-clear Silfra fissure, where the North American and Eurasian plates pull apart. You’ll enjoy a ride through the amazing lava fields on small Icelandic horses, known for their smooth gaits and calm demeanors. Meals include a tomato greenhouse lunch at Friðheimar and a Viking-style feast in a turf-roofed hall.

And no worries — both the snorkeling and horse riding are beginner-level activities.

In the Faroe Islands, you’ll be welcomed by Árni {below right), a Tórshavn native passionate about nature and sustainability. Hike the historic trail to Kirkjubøur, visit the hauntingly remote island of Koltur by RIB boat, fish for your own dinner aboard a traditional Faroese boat, and explore the sea cliffs of Vestmanna, home to thousands of nesting seabirds. Dine on monkfish at Áarstova and share coffee and cake with farmers in Gásadalur.

With every detail handled — from boutique accommodations to all logistics — you’ll experience these rugged northern lands in a deeply personal way.

In this May 28, 2025, Facebook livestream, owner Mark Johnson was joined by Hobnail Iceland and Faroe Islands guides, Sævar Þorleifsson and Árni Winther Jákupsson, respectively, along with Reconnect Travel’s Fran López del Carril, who has been helping us with the logistics of this amazing trip. Among other things, the group covered the itinerary, food, lodging, weather, and travel. Enjoy!

Nordic Odyssey

9 days/8 nights

$8,548

Click the date below to register:
June 2-10, 2026
(registration deadline: March 19, 2026)
Sept. 8-16, 2026
(registration deadline: June 25, 2026)

FAQs

What are Iceland and the Faroes, exactly?

Iceland is a large island nation in the North Atlantic Ocean, located just below the Arctic Circle, between Greenland and mainland Europe. It’s known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, glaciers, waterfalls, and geothermal activity. The Faroe Islands, by contrast, are a small, rugged archipelago situated roughly halfway between Iceland and Norway. They’re part of the Kingdom of Denmark but have their own distinct language, culture, and identity.

The two destinations are about 500 miles (800 kilometers) apart. Direct flights between Iceland’s capital, Reykjavík, and the Faroese capital, Tórshavn (via Vágar Airport), take just under 1.5 hours, making it surprisingly easy to combine both in a single, well-planned trip—like this one.

What is the difficulty level of the Nordic Odyssey?

The Iceland and Faroes: A Nordic Odyssey is rated easy to moderate in terms of physical difficulty. This trip is designed for travelers who enjoy light to moderate activity without needing technical skills or high-altitude conditioning.

You’ll hike across lava fields, trek a glacier with expert guides, snorkel in calm, clear water, and walk along scenic coastal trails and historic village paths. Most hikes are 2–3 hours long at a relaxed pace, with breaks built in. Terrain can be uneven, but the routes are non-technical and accessible to anyone in reasonably good health with a spirit of adventure.

If you can comfortably walk several miles on hilly or rocky ground, you’ll be just fine. And of course, everything is guided and fully supported—so you can enjoy the landscapes without worrying about logistics.

Is the water where I'll be snorkeling cold? This is Iceland, after all!

Yes, it’s cold — just a few degrees above freezing. However, you will be nice and comfortable within a dry suit, under which you will be wearing thermal underwear. The water will be the clearest water you’ve ever experienced, most likely, and you will feel as if you’re floating in air!

Is the tap water safe to drink in Iceland and the Faroes?

Yes — absolutely. In fact, the tap water in both Iceland and the Faroe Islands is among the cleanest and purest in the world. It comes straight from natural springs, glacial melt, and deep underground sources, often requiring little to no treatment.

Locals drink it straight from the tap, and you can too. There’s no need to buy bottled water—just bring a reusable bottle and fill up at your hotel or during daily activities. In many places, especially in Iceland, you can even refill from streams while hiking (your guide will let you know when it’s safe to do so).

Not only is the water safe — it’s delicious.

Will I easily be able to communicate with Hobnail between booking and departure?

Absolutely! Hobnail provides exceptional pre-departure support to ensure you feel fully prepared for your trek. You’ll receive:
✔️ A comprehensive gear list to help you pack
✔️ A custom mobile app with itinerary details, packing tips, and FAQs
✔️ A welcome box with Hobnail-branded apparel
✔️ Access to video chats with your guide to discuss any concerns
✔️ Direct access to Hobnail owners Mark and Holly Johnson, who are always happy to answer questions

What should I pack for this trek?

You won’t need technical mountaineering gear, but you will want to be prepared for wind, rain, and fluctuating temperatures. Here’s a basic packing guide:

Clothing:

Waterproof rain jacket (essential!)
Waterproof hiking pants or quick-dry trousers
Insulating layers like fleece or down jacket
Moisture-wicking base layers (tops and bottoms)
Casual clothes for dinners (comfortable, nothing fancy)
Warm hat and gloves (yes, even in August)
Swimsuit (for Sky Lagoon and potential hot springs)

Footwear:

Comfortable, waterproof hiking shoes or boots (well broken-in)
Light shoes or sandals for hotels

Gear:

Daypack (20–30L) for hikes and daily outings
Reusable water bottle
Sunglasses and sunscreen (yes, even in cloudy weather)
Small travel towel (optional but useful)
Camera or phone for photos—it’s photogenic out there!

We’ll send a more detailed packing list after registration, but the key is layers, waterproof outerwear, and comfortable hiking gear. Better to pack light and versatile than bulky and specific.

Are meals included?

With one or two exceptions, yes.

What type of currency is used in countries? Will I need cash?

In Iceland, the local currency is the Icelandic króna (ISK). In the Faroe Islands, the official currency is the Faroese króna (DKK), which is a localized version of the Danish krone and used interchangeably with Danish currency.

That said, cash is rarely necessary in either country. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted — even for small purchases like coffee or public restrooms. You likely won’t need to exchange much, if any, physical currency.

If you do want a few local bills or coins as souvenirs, you can withdraw cash from ATMs upon arrival. Just be sure to let your bank know you’ll be traveling to both countries so your card works smoothly.

Is altitude an issue on this trip?

No, not at all! Both Iceland and the Faroe Islands are coastal and relatively low in elevation. Most of your activities will take place at or near sea level, with some hikes reaching a few hundred feet of elevation gain—nothing that would cause altitude-related issues.

This makes the trip ideal for travelers who want stunning landscapes, physical activity, and cultural immersion without the challenges of high altitude. You’ll breathe easy the whole way.

What will the weather be like?

In August, both Iceland and the Faroe Islands enjoy their mildest weather of the year—but it’s still important to pack for variety.

Expect daytime temperatures between 50–60°F (10–15°C), with cooler mornings and evenings. While you’ll likely have some sunshine, both countries are known for rapid weather changes, so it’s wise to dress in layers and always have a waterproof jacket handy. Light rain and wind are common, but not usually severe.

In Iceland, you may enjoy clear skies during glacier hikes or strolls along black sand beaches—then need a rain shell an hour later. In the Faroes, fog can roll in quickly, giving the cliffs and coastal trails a moody, mystical vibe.

Bottom line: pack layers, sturdy shoes, and a sense of humor, and you’ll be ready for whatever the North Atlantic throws your way.

Will we see the Northern Lights?

Unlikely—August is not the season for Northern Lights in Iceland or the Faroe Islands.

The Aurora Borealis requires dark, clear skies to be visible, and during August, both countries experience long daylight hours, including late sunsets and extended twilight. This makes it nearly impossible to see the lights, even if solar activity is high.

That said, August offers its own magic: lush green landscapes, blooming wildflowers, puffins still nesting on cliffs, and comfortably cool weather for hiking and exploring. If seeing the Northern Lights is high on your bucket list, consider joining a Hobnail trek to Iceland in late fall, winter, or early spring, when the skies are dark enough to catch nature’s most famous light show.

Nordic Odyssey Details

Please read all of these carefully!

Hike Fresh Lava Fields
Walk across still-warm volcanic terrain near Grindavík, where Iceland’s recent eruptions have reshaped the land beneath your feet.

Glacier Trek on Sólheimajökull
Strap on crampons and hike a frozen wonderland of crevasses, ridges, and ancient ice with expert guides.

Snorkel Between Continents
Float in the crystal-clear waters of Silfra, where you’ll drift between the tectonic plates of North America and Eurasia.

Farm-to-Table Icelandic Fare
Enjoy meals in greenhouses, turf-roofed halls, and cozy countryside homes featuring local produce and traditional recipes.

Puffins and Sea Cliffs
Scan the towering bird cliffs of Dyrhólaey and Vestmanna, home to puffins, razorbills, and other seabirds in peak nesting season.

Cross the Ocean to the Faroes
Take a quick flight into a different world of dramatic sea stacks, remote villages, and Viking legends.

Hike to Gásadalur Village
Follow an old farmers’ path to this hidden gem, where turf-roof homes overlook the majestic Múlafossur waterfall.

RIB Boat to Koltur Island
Explore this rarely visited island while learning about its groundbreaking regeneration and sustainability efforts.

Catch and Cook Your Own Dinner
Join a Faroese fisherman aboard a traditional boat and end the day by enjoying the fruits of your labor.

Hobnail Trekking Co. long-sleeve trekking shirt and ball cap
Custom Hobnail mobile app
Opportunities to get to know your fellow trekkers include an invitation to a private WhatsApp group for your trek, group training hikes if trekkers live in proximity to each other, and other local social gatherings
8 nights in 3-4* hotels
Daily breakfast buffet at the hotel
Local hosts/guides at your disposal
All transfers, entrance fees as per itinerary, and hiking fees
7 lunches and 8 dinners (8 lunches if you choose the optional food tour)
All activities described in the itinerary
All national park fees, entrance fees, taxes, and permits
Local, English-speaking leader and guide(s)
The company of new friends and the experience of a lifetime

Travel insurance (See the Travel Insurance section on this page for details)
International and domestic flights (we’ll give you guidance on this)
Beverages
Services not mentioned in the itinerary
Meals not included in the itinerary
Tips for drivers, guides, etc.
Spending money, including for souvenirs
Personal trekking equipment (hiking boots, clothing, etc.)
Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, room service, extra hotel nights, extra meals, etc.)
All expenses associated with nonscheduled departure or transportation

OK, here’s where we get serious. Hobnail requires that all trekkers purchase travel/medical insurance that covers them properly for all trekking activities.

There are a lot more details you need to know about travel insurance than we want to put in this limited space — including stuff about trip cancellations and what company we recommend — so when you’re ready, pop over to our Travel Insurance page.

We consider our trips to be adventures, not vacations. We’re not Hobnail Vacation Company, after all! Don’t get us wrong; we like vacations as much as the next person, but with our treks, you need to be physically and mentally ready. Here’s what we ask of you:

You thoroughly read all the information we send you prior to departure.
You get yourself an accountability partner and train properly. This doesn’t mean doing a few squats two weeks before departure. (Read more in the “Training” tab.)
You familiarize yourself with your gear prior to leaving. Practice adjusting your backpack, filtering water if necessary, etc.
If you purchase new boots, they are broken in well in advance of departure.
When on the trip, you treat your guide and the locals you encounter with the utmost respect. We are guests in their country and very grateful to be there.

All of these things may seem like common sense — and they are — but we feel that we must mention them. Hobnail’s goal is to provide you with the best experience possible, and you have an important role in achieving that goal.

A few days after registering for a trek, we will give you a call (if you’re available) to say hello and answer any initial questions you may have. If you use WhatsApp, we will also invite you to join a private group page just for your trek. This is a great way to interact with your fellow trekkers – and possibly your guide – before departure. You can post questions in the group anytime you’d like, talk about the cool gear you’re planning to take with you, organize group hikes if you live near each other, and generally just get to know those who will be sharing this incredible experience with you.

Within the first weeks after your trek is confirmed, you will receive a Welcome Box from us. It contains stuff that you can use during training as well as on the trek itself, and some other fun things to get you (even more) excited about your trip.

You’ll also receive a link to your Hobnail app, which is full of great information, including a day-by-day schedule, gear list, beautiful photography, and a bunch of interesting and important information. It will also provide you with yet another way to contact us – through its messaging service. As your trip gets closer, we will load your flights and accommodation information into the app so you’ll feel even more secure in knowing where you’ll be staying. You’re in good hands.

The closer you get to your trek, the more you’ll hear from us — but of course, you can reach out any time you have a question.

Like all of our adventures, you need to have achieved a good level of fitness prior to departure for this trek. Remember, these are not simply vacations that incorporate a little bit of walking. On the contrary, these are active adventures! In most cases, you will be on your feet for several hours each day, and in some cases, hiking along rough trails and possibly, steep inclines. It is your responsibility to train, practice, and have yourself in the best condition possible by the time you depart.

So, if you are expecting a 10-mile day of hiking on your trip, emulate that hike at home — repeatedly. If you expect consecutive days of hiking on your trip, complete consecutive days of hiking at home. Same with biking. Do more and more of this as your departure approaches so that when you’re actually there, your muscle memory will kick in. Train hard at home so that things will be easy during the actual trip.

Trust us — your adventure will be infinitely more fun if you are physically prepared for it. If you need help or suggestions with training, feel free to call or email us!

What happens if my trek is not confirmed?

If the minimum number for the trek you booked is not reached before the 60-day booking deadline, you will be eligible for either a refund or to transfer your deposit to another trek. See details HERE.

Packing for Iceland? Watch this.

And no worries — we will give you a more detailed gear list when you book.

Our Mobile App

When you book, we send you the login credentials to your own, customized app. By departure, your app will contain your flight info, passport, and travel insurance docs, as well as your full itinerary, points of interest, and other amazing stuff.

TREK ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival and Lava Hike

Welcome to Iceland, the land of fire and ice. Over the next few days, you’ll understand why Iceland has earned this nickname.

Your Icelandic journey begins on the dramatic Reykjanes Peninsula with your guide, Sævar, a local host rooted in farming traditions and deep knowledge of the land.

Explore the bubbling Gunnuhver Hot Springs, visit the historic Reykjanesviti lighthouse and nearby Valahnjúkur bird cliffs, and marvel at the lava-carved Brimketill rock pool.

In Grindavík, a fishing town shaped by recent eruptions, hike through fresh lava fields and witness Iceland’s dynamic geology.

Then, learn about the country’s renewable energy at the Hellisheiði Geothermal Plant.

End the day with a Viking-style dinner at Ingólfsskáli and overnight at The Greenhouse Hotel.

Whew! What an incredible start to this trip.

Highlights:
Reykjanes Peninsula
Lava Hike
Viking-style Dinner

Accommodations: The Greenhouse Hotel or similar
Meals included: Packed lunch, dinner

Day 2: Waterfalls and Ice

Today, you’ll set out along Iceland’s stunning South Coast, beginning with the majestic waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss.

Then lace up for a private glacier hike on Sólheimajökull, where you’ll trek among crevasses and icy formations with expert guides.

After trail refreshments and a packed lunch, you’ll visit the puffin cliffs of Dyrhólaey, the dramatic black sands of Reynisfjara, and the charming village of Vík, with a coffee stop at School Beans Café.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, you’ll end the day with a delicious three-course dinner at Rangá Restaurant before returning to your hotel.

Highlights:
South Coast
Glacier Hike

Accommodations: The Greenhouse Hotel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner

Day 3: Golden Circle and Snorkeling the tectonic plates

Today, you’ll encounter some of Iceland’s most iconic sights, including the vibrant Kerið Crater, the thundering Gullfoss waterfall, and the erupting Strokkur at the Geysir geothermal area.

You’ll love the tomato soup lunch inside the greenhouse restaurant at Friðheimar, and if time allows, top it off with a stop by the sapphire waters of Brúarfoss.

After a sweet detour to Efstidalur dairy farm, you’ll explore the rift valley of þingvellir National Park. The highlight of the day, of course, is snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters of Silfra, between two continents. On a clear day, you can see as far as two football fields underwater. We’re hoping for a clear day.

After you peel out of your wetsuit and drink some hot chocolate to warm your insides, you’ll check in at Grandi Hótel and enjoy a five-course tasting menu at Fiskfélagið (The Fish Company).

Highlights:
Friðheimar Greenhouse
Silfra Snorkelling Experience

Accommodations: Grandi Hótel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 4: Icelandic horseback riding, Sky Lagoon, and local living

It’s your final full day in Iceland, and you’ll spend it soaking up local life.

You’ll have the morning free in Reykjavík to relax, shop, or explore the area.

*An optional food tour mid-morning includes the famous Icelandic hot dog (really, it’s a thing!).

After lunch (on your own or via the tasty food tour), saddle up for a scenic horseback ride through lava fields on the famous Icelandic horses.

No trip to Iceland is complete without a lagoon visit. You’ll unwind at the oceanfront Sky Lagoon, a geothermal spa where you’ll soak in warm waters with panoramic views. Experience the unique 7-step ritual and feel any remaining tension melt away.

You’ll end this last day in Iceland with a warm, home-cooked Icelandic meal shared with Sævar’s family at his home before heading back to the hotel for your final night’s rest in Iceland.

*Optional food tour is $165 and can be selected at time of registration.

Highlights:
Icelandic Horseback Ride
Sky Lagoon
Dinner at your Guide’s Home

Accommodations: Grandi Hótel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast, dinner (lunch included in optional food tour)

Day 5: Faroe Islands, Hike the Old Path, Faroese home meal

After breakfast, you’ll have a private transfer to the airport, where you’ll catch your flight from Iceland to the Faroe Islands.

Árni, your Faroese guide, will greet you at the airport and take you to the village of Bøur, where you’ll begin a scenic hike to Gásadalur. This historic path was vital for farmers before modern roads were built.

Along the way, you’ll enjoy a packed lunch of Faroese bread while admiring views of Tindhólmur and Drangarnir.

In Gásadalur, you will visit a local farm and enjoy coffee and homemade cake while hearing stories of village life.

In the evening, experience Heimablídni — the Faroese tradition of dining in a private home — where a local host will welcome you with seasonal dishes and stories of daily life on the islands.

After dinner, you’ll head to your hotel for your first night’s sleep in the Faroes. Sweet dreams, indeed.

Highlights:
Old Village Hike To Gásadalur
Múlafossur Waterfall
Heimablídni Dinner

Accommodations: Hotel Vagar or similar
Meals included: Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner

Day 6: Bird Cliffs boat tour, Faer Isles Distillery, farm-to-table meal

Your first full day in the Faroe Islands begins, appropriately, on a boat. In Vestmanna, you’ll hop on board to explore the dramatic cliffs and sea caves, where puffins, razorbills, guillemots, and fulmars nest in the towering rock walls during the summer.

After your boat tour, visit the Faer Isles Distillery to learn about local whiskey production while enjoying Nordic open-style sandwiches paired with craft spirits.

Next, you’ll travel the scenic mountain road to Tórshavn, stopping at breathtaking viewpoints to capture some memories on (digital) film.

In the evening, you will visit a farm in Selatræð, where a local farmer will share insights into sustainable Faroese agriculture. After a farm-to-table dinner featuring local ingredients, you’ll return to your hotel in Tórshavn for the night.

Highlights:
Boat tour
Distillery Tasting
Farm to Table Dinner in Selatræð

Accommodations: Hilton Hotel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 7: Kirkjubøur and Koltur Island

Today, you will hike the historic path from Tórshavn to Kirkjubøur, a route that has connected the Faroese for generations. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by mountain tranquility.

Once in Kirkjubøur, you’ll have time to explore Roykstovan, the world’s oldest inhabited wooden house, and visit the ruins of Magnus Cathedral.

From there, board a private RIB boat to Koltur, where you’ll learn about its regeneration project and take part in conservation efforts.

After returning to Tórshavn, you’ll enjoy a thoughtfully prepared dinner at Áarstova, featuring Faroese lamb shoulder or monkfish.

Finally, you’ll head back to the hotel for another peaceful night of sleep.

Highlights:
Historical Hike To Kirkjubøur
Exclusive RIB Boat Trip To Koltur Island
Soil Regeneration Project Visit

Accommodations: Hilton Hotel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner

Day 8: Tórshavn and Catch Your Dinner

Your day begins with a guided walking tour of Tórshavn’s old town with Árni, where you’ll explore the world’s oldest parliament, the famous turf-roofed houses of the Faroes, and the vibrant harbor that blends modern life with long-held traditions.

You’ll spend the rest of the day with a local fisherman, learning about traditional fishing techniques while catching your own dinner. The trip takes place in a historic Faroese boat, recognized on the UNESCO heritage list for its cultural significance.

In the evening, you’ll savor the fruits of your labor, an experience that offers not just a taste of the local cuisine but also a deeper connection to the traditions and beauty of the islands.

Highlights:
Torshavn Guided Tour
Faroese Boat Traditions
Catch Your Own Dinner

Accommodations: Hilton Hotel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner

Day 9: Departure

Spend your final morning reflecting on your journey to the Faroes.

Árni will accompany you to the airport, ensuring a warm send-off as you won’t want to leave this special place.

As you depart, you’ll take with you not just memories, but a deeper appreciation for the Faroe Islands—its traditions, conservation efforts, and the beauty of reconnecting with nature and community.

Safe travels back home.

Meals included: Breakfast

GENERAL INFORMATION

Iceland history in a nutshell

Iceland’s history begins in the late 9th century, when Norse settlers—mainly from Norway—arrived on the island, bringing with them their language, livestock, and Viking traditions. Though Irish monks may have visited earlier, it was the Norse who established permanent settlements, founding what would become one of the world’s oldest parliaments, the Althing, in 930 AD. This early form of democracy still exists today, making Iceland a proud cradle of representative government.

In the centuries that followed, Iceland endured harsh conditions, isolation, and foreign rule. It fell under Norwegian control in the 13th century and later passed to Denmark, which ruled for more than 500 years. Despite the challenges—including volcanic eruptions, famines, and the notorious “Little Ice Age”—Icelandic culture and language remained remarkably preserved.

In 1944, Iceland gained full independence from Denmark and quickly modernized. Today, it’s a highly developed nation with deep roots in tradition, especially storytelling, literature, and a powerful connection to the land. From sagas etched in ancient manuscripts to geothermal innovations and environmental stewardship, Iceland’s history is one of resilience, creativity, and a quiet but fierce independence.

Faroe Islands history in a nutshell

The Faroe Islands’ history is a tale of isolation, endurance, and cultural preservation in one of the North Atlantic’s most remote archipelagos. While Celtic monks may have briefly settled the islands as early as the 6th century, it was Norse Vikings who established lasting communities around the 9th century, bringing their Old Norse language and traditions that still shape Faroese culture today.

By the 11th century, the islands came under Norwegian control and later passed to the Danish crown, where they remain today as a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark. Despite centuries of foreign rule, the Faroese people have maintained a strong sense of identity—preserving their own language, flag, and deep-rooted traditions in fishing, wool production, and storytelling.

The Faroe Islands gained home rule in 1948, allowing for greater autonomy in domestic affairs. Since then, they’ve developed a robust fishing economy, a growing tourism industry, and a global reputation for sustainability and resilience. Though modern in many ways, the Faroes still feel timeless—with turf-roofed homes, ancient footpaths, and a culture that prizes community, music, and life in tune with the sea and mountains.

It’s a quiet yet powerful story of survival, sovereignty, and pride in place.

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