SOUTHWEST, ICELAND \ RITUAL & RENEWAL \ Apr 18-23, 2023
SOUTHWEST, ICELAND \ RITUAL & RENEWAL \ Apr 18-23, 2023
RITUAL & RENEWAL - We are returning to the land of fire + ice! Join us on the New Moon Solar Eclipse for an elemental exploration of Iceland: a celebration of spring and the new beginnings that it brings. Thermal spas, Ritual Workshops & MORE!
OVERVIEW
RITUAL + RENEWAL
In Iceland, the power of Nature is raw, powerful and uniquely accessible. Fire and ice flow form the earth as waterfalls, geysers and lava, and rainbows seem to light your path.
Join us on the NEW MOON SOLAR ECLIPSE for an elemental exploration of Iceland: a celebration of spring and the new beginnings that it brings.
There is no better place than Iceland to slow down and connect with the energy of Earth, Water, Air and Fire.
When we connect with the elements, rhythms and cycles of the Earth, our energetic frequency recalibrates to that of our True Nature; we are naturally brought into health, alignment, peace and joy. This state of flow can be accessed by regularly consuming wild and high vibration teas and other medicinal plants of the Earth. We can also access it by spending time in Nature.
Join us for a perfect balance of renewal and adventure in the land of fire and ice, finding a new daily ritual routine and indulging in relaxation, while exploring stunning landscapes, pure botanicals, and extreme elements nature.
Daily yoga class, as well as a meditation time of either a ritual workshop, tea-ceremony, or just breathing in nature, will be part of each day. Adventures through Iceland’s magical wonders, healing time in the thermal waters, and time to connect will be incorporated throughout the itinerary. Guests will leave with an understanding of tea as a plant, a lifestyle and a divine beverage. They will be taught a personal tea ritual: a hand-blended tea and a daily practice to turn the mundane into meditation and tap into the bliss of the present moment.
This retreat is led by Sarah Scarborough of Tea Huntress. Sarah has devoted the last twenty years of her life to discovering the culture and agriculture of tea, sourcing the finest varieties. As a registered yoga teacher, she offers vinyasa classes rooted in the Ashtanga tradition, as well as Yin yoga to compliment the power of tea ceremony to connect and change us.
HOTELS
We will split our retreat between two uniquely Icelandic boutique hotels - both in and outside of the city center of Reykjavik. That way we can experience the various landscapes and cultures of this amazing country.
We’ll start out our time in the heart of downtown Reykjavik at the Hotel Borg, a Reykjavik icon. From its elegant facade to the Art Deco interiors, Hotel Borg combines sophisticated comfort, excellent service and a superb location. Located in the heart of the city center, ideally located next to the main shopping district and famed sites of this compact city.
Then after our time in the city, we’ll head to the countryside to one of Iceland’s most prized and talked-about design hotels: the Ion Adventure Hotel.
“Nestled in the magical lava landscapes of the UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park, this unique design hotel is constructed very much with nature in mind. It features a slick restaurant and bar, an outdoor hot tub and spa, and comfortable, high-end rooms.” —Telegraph
Fire and ice. Hot and cold. An abandoned inn turned boutique hotel in Iceland. Ion Adventure Hotel is where modern design meets Iceland’s incomparable natural landscape. Situated in the south-western town of Selfoss - near a national crossroad, making the hotel accessible to various parts of the country - Ion is conveniently located to offer guests the best of Iceland. From the volcanic marvels of Mount Hengill to the urban sophistication of Reykjavik nearby, the unique landscape plays a pivotal role in the rich design of the hotel, which leans heavily on sustainable practices and the natural features of the island. In the guest rooms, one can expect a mellow mix of concrete chic and earthy ambiance, combined with the warm accents of locally salvaged driftwood and lava, all deftly handled by design studio Minarc. Beyond this, the farm-fresh cuisine at Silfra Restaurant & Bar, view-heavy Northern Lights Bar, and partially exposed Lava Spa all ensure that visitors have the ultimate Icelandic experience before even stepping foot outside.
CUISINE
Healthful, vegetarian food is part of the retreat experience, including breakfast and dinner daily, as well as selected lunches. Seafood options are also offered on specific meals during this sea-focused location. We've carefully chosen delicious and fresh meals from renowned restaurants and chefs which will give guests an expansive experience of the cuisine. Our dinners will include a few multi-course tasting menus, emphasizing honest, healthy, and delicious Icelandic food, as well as various meals out in town and on our day trips.
ACTIVITIES
Our day trips will allow us to experience the many unique landscapes and activities that this area has to offer. We will start the week out with a welcome reception and INTENTION SETTING workshop, before a walking tour through the city of Reykjavik and a gourmet welcome dinner. Our next day will be focusing on the EARTH and root chakra: we’ll take a trip to the Reykjanes Peninsula to walk on the dried lava flow and connect with the earth with a walking meditation, before visiting the the famous Blue Lagoon with its healing waters, silica masks, unparalleled views, and luxe spa experience, as well as a chef’s dinner.
The next day will be working with the ideas of the sacral chakra and the FIRE element. We will stop by the continental divide at Thingvellir National Park to see the Silfra gorge and stop at another natural thermal water spa, where we’ll indulge in the waters, as well as see how they make the traditional rye bread in the hot lava sand. That evening, we’ll check in to the Ion Adventure Hotel and have an evening yoga class.
We’ll explore the WATER element of the solar plexus chakra the next day on our trip to the south shore, where we’ll visit a few incredible waterfalls and the Reynisfjara black beach with basalt cliffs. On our final full day together we’ll focus on the element of AIR and the heart chakra: guests will have time to really relax and renew at the hotel with options for relaxing in the thermal pool, taking hikes in the lava fields, or even an option to add on an Iceland horse ride or simply read in a cozy nook. We’ll enjoy yoga and a final TEA CEREMONY that day before our final dinner, and on the last morning we’ll have a closing circle and GRATITUDE ritual.
YOGA
Daily meditation and yoga will be offered in a way to relax, stimulate, and help guests grow in their own personal practice. Classes are open to all levels, beginner to practiced*. Style and class levels will be determined and moulded to fit participating students' needs, and with a small intimate retreat class size, students will be able to get personalized attention and comfortability to deeply explore their practice. Depending on each retreat location, classes will be held in a dedicated indoor yoga space.
* Participation in classes and activities is optional throughout the retreat. All levels welcome!
DETAILS / PRICING
6 days / 5 nights (Apr 18-23, 2024)
Inclusive Retreat Price = $4,345 (shared room*, +$895 for single supplement)
Deposit to hold space = $950
Max # Guests = 12
* Guests traveling alone can choose the shared room and we match up based on guest profile. Rooms are spacious with separate beds and private bathrooms.
** Final balance due 60 days before retreat start date.
Read full cancellation policy in our Terms & Conditions.
INCLUDED*:
Hotel accommodation (spacious bedrooms each with private bathrooms, linens)
Daily Breakfast and Dinner
Selected lunches
Transportation to/from day trips
Daily meditation and/or yoga classes
Meditation / Ritual Workshops / Tea Ceremony classes
Use of hotel amenities (pools, spas, trails, etc.)
Tour guide on various day trips
Welcome Reception
Welcome gourmet tasting dinner with wine pairing
Premium entrance fees to Blue Lagoon
Coursed meal at the fine dining restaurant at Blue Lagoon
Tour of South Shore (waterfalls, Reynisfjara black beach, etc)
Tour of Reykjanes Peninsula
Rye Bread Demo + Lunch
Thermal spa visit
Walking tour in Reykjavik
Thingvellir National Park visit
Taxes
* airfare not included
** all meals are vegetarian. special dietary restrictions can be accommodated
*activities may change based on weather or unforeseen circumstances
TRAVEL:
Airport = Keflavik Airport (KEF), Reykjavik's major international airport
One group transfer will be offered on departure day at 9am from hotel to Reykjavik city center (from there, guests can take the shuttle to the airport at their own convenience). We will provide details for how guests can arrive on their own, either by private taxi or the coach transfer companies which leave regularly from the airport.
SUGGESTED PACKING:
Besides the basic packing and travel needs, here are a few things to think about bringing with you.
Yoga mat
Journaling and workshop supplies will be provided
Bathing suit (thermal spas)
Comfortable outdoor walking shoes
Weather-proof layers
Yoga clothes
Plug adaptors / converters