ICELAND MOUNTAIN BIKE
EXPLORER | 6 DAYS, 5 NIGHTS
TREKTRAVEL.COM | 866-464-8735
This is the knobby-tired, two-wheeled journey of a
lifetime. Ride for 6 days through the rolling volcanic
wonderland that is the Icelandic backcountry.
Pedal along rolling hills and mossy lava fields; soak in mystical hot springs and peer into
steaming fumaroles. Soak in a mid-ride bath on your way to the remote Álftavatn Lake.
Explore the singletrack of hidden river valleys while gazing up at ancient towering glaciers.
And stay in a couple of magical mountain huts as you discover all the hidden treasures of
Iceland in the best way possible: on a mountain bike.
From
$4199pp
Rider Type
Active
Hotel Style
Explorer
Duration
6 days | 5 nights
Start | End
Reykjavík, Iceland
Dates
2017/Jul
TRIP WOWS
Soak in mystical hot springs and peer into steaming fumaroles
Enjoy an incredible scenic tour along the remote and rugged
south coast of Iceland
Ride along Eldgjá, the largest volcanic canyon in the world
Ride through the lava fields, fissures and moss of the majestic
Blafjoll mountain range
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DAILY ITINERARY
2017
DAY 1
Today's Ride:
Hengill Volcano
Approximately 10 miles with 700
feet of climbing and 1,700 feet of
descending
Description:
This morning you will meet your guides at the Hotel Reykjavik Marina in Reykjavik at 9:00 AM. After a short
round of introductions, you guides will discuss the rules of bike safety and specific cycling tips for riding in
Iceland before familiarizing you with your Trek bicycle and ensuring a comfortable fit. Today we'll ride the area
surrounding Hengill, a volcano that lies in Iceland’s western volcanic belt, last erupting two thousand years ago.
We'll pedal along Ölkelduhnjúkur Mountain on some seriously sweet singletrack and down through Reykjadalur
valley towards the village of Hveragerði. Don’t forget your bathing suit as this region is renowned for its hot
springs and natural warm rivers which you'll sample post-ride. Dry off and hop in the van for a late afternoon
drive along Iceland’s fantastic South Coast to your first night's stay at the mountain hut Hólaskjól, Hungurfit or
Hvanngil. This evening, get to know your fellow travelers during social hour and a typical Icelandic dinner at the
hut prepared by your guides.
Hotel:
Alternate Hotel on Select Dates:
Included Meals:
Mountain Hut Hólaskjól
Hungurfit or Hvanngil Mountain Hut
Lunch | Social Hour | Dinner
www.eldgja.is/en
VIEW MEETING AND DEPARTING INFORMATION»
DAY 2
Today's Ride:
Langisjór to Eldgjá
Approximately 20 miles with 2,000
feet of climbing and 3,100 feet of
descending
Description:
Hopefully you turned in early, because we've got a big day ahead. After breakfast and a short transfer to
Landisjor, you’ll start riding on a fantastic singletrack trail along the Skaftá River, continuing through the
Skaftárhraun lava to grassy Skælingar tuff ridges. From Skælingar, you'll head to Eldgjá, the largest volcanic
canyon in the world. Formed in a volcanic eruption in 934 AD, Eldgjá is 270m deep and 600m wide at its
greatest. End today's ride right at the front door of our mystic mountain hut. Tonight you'll enjoy a hearty, familystyle Icelandic meal prepared by your guides.
Hotel:
Alternate Hotel on Select Dates:
Included Meals:
Mountain Hut Hólaskjól
Hungurfit or Hvanngil Mountain Hut
Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
www.eldgja.is/en
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DAY 3
Today's Ride:
Strútstígur
Approximately 30 miles with 2,370
feet of climbing and 2,270 feet of
descending
Description:
Today’s singletrack is one of the best rides in all of Iceland. Pedal along the banks of the river Syðri-Ófæra and
the hills of Svartahnúksfjöll Mountain ridge. Along the route you'll have a chance to take a relaxing dip in a
natural hot spring in the middle of the unspoiled nature. After the bath, get back in the saddle and ride along the
mountainous singletrack that leads to the Álftavatn Lake and your cabin. Savor a delicious home-cooked dinner
and be sure to get some rest this evening before another adventurous day of mountain biking tomorrow.
Hotel:
Alternate Hotel on Select Dates:
Included Meals:
Alftavatn Hut
Ho?laskjo?l or Hvanngil Mountain
Hut
Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
www.nat.is/fjallaskalareng/skalar_fi_alftavatn_midve
gur.htm
DAY 4
Today's Ride:
Hungurfit
Approximately 10 miles with 1,800
feet of climbing and 1,620 feet of
descending
Description:
The day starts with a magical ride from Lake Álftavatn past Torfahlaup Canyon. Dig deep for a few challenging
singletrack sections that characterize the great canyons of the Markarfljot River, then make you’re way on a
remote and breathtaking trail that leads to a hidden valley behind the glacier of Tindfjallajökull. The day ends
with a night's stay in the mountain hut, situated in the middle of the Icelandic back country.
Hotel:
Alternate Hotel on Select Dates:
Included Meals:
Alftavatn Hut
Ho?laskjo?l, Hvanngil or Hungurfit
Mountain Hut
Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
www.nat.is/fjallaskalareng/skalar_fi_alftavatn_midve
gur.htm
DAY 5
Today's Ride:
Þórsmörk
Approximately 18 miles with 1,500
feet of climbing and 2,300 feet of
descending
Description:
Today's dirt is seriously awesome. Gaze up at the cone-shaped Storasula Mountain on your way to our riding
port-of-call: the singletrack of the Laugavegur route. Ride a mesmerizing black sandy trail under the looming
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shadow of the Mýrdalsjökull glacier, all the way to Þórsmörk. This is a truly mythical valley. Birch trees blanket
the ravines and hillsides of this landscape while steep mountains and grumbling glaciers stand guard toward the
sky. Tonight, after a 2 hour shuttle to Reykjavik, we will raise a glass and enjoy a delicious meal while
reminiscing about our incredible adventures among newfound friends.
Hotel:
Included Meals:
Hotel Reykjavik Marina
Breakfast | Lunch | Social Hour |
Dinner
www.icelandairhotels.com/en/hotels/marina
DAY 6
Today's Ride:
The Bláfjöll Mountains
Approximately 13 miles with 400
feet of climbing and 1,130 feet of
descending
Description:
Today is the perfect way to finish off your Icelandic adventure. A quick shuttle from downtown Reykjavík will set
you against a backdrop of the lava fields, fissures and moss of the majestic, truly astounding Bláfjöll mountain
range. This trail is an exciting descent characterized by both technical sections and sweet flowing singletrack. It'll
take you through the heart of the tranquil Heiðmörk Natural Reserve and ends right back in Reykjavik. We'll stop
in Reykjavik for one last meal in Iceland at a local bistro. This afternoon, say farewell to your guides at 1:00 PM
at the Hotel Reykjavik Marina in Reykjavik, and start dreaming of a return trip back to this amazing island nation.
Included Meals:
Breakfast | Lunch
VIEW MEETING AND DEPARTING INFORMATION»
WHAT'S INCLUDED
We Include More
Every moment of a Trek Travel bike trip has more than you could have ever dreamed. More romance. More scenery. More choice. It's
the little additions to every Trek Travel cycling vacation that make it truly special. And that’s how we help you create more
memories. See more
Activities
Gratuities for all scheduled special events, restaurants, hotels, local guides and transportation during your trip.
Private tours
Entrance fees to all group events/activities
All transportation during the trip, including private coaches
Lodging
5 nights of accommodation
In every region we travel, we uncover the area’s best, and most delightful accommodations. On our Iceland Mountain Bike trip,
you will stay in one urban hotel and two remote backcountry lodges. Expect a rustic atmosphere at the backcountry lodges.
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Rooms at the lodges vary from smaller six person rooms to rooms that will accommodate the entire group. You'll be provided a
toasty warm sleeping bag and a soft sleeping pad to rest for the nights at the lodge. These remote lodges include running water
and restroom facilities, but do not have electricity.
Dining
Daily breakfast, 6 lunches, 2 social hours, 5 dinners, and all snacks and drinks for each day
On our Iceland Mountain Bike trip, you’ll be experiencing a variety of hearty Icelandic cuisine, including lamb, fish, and potatobased dishes.
Support
The knowledge, support, and camaraderie of experienced guides
Daily route support
Paper route guides also available upon request
All luggage transfers
Comprehensive trip literature
Gear
The use of a Trek Fuel Ex 8 27.5 full suspension mountain bike
The use of Bontrager bike helmets and other gear and equipment to make your ride comfortable
Complimentary Bontrager merchandise
Trek Travel water bottles
Coupon valued up to $500 off a new Trek Bicycle. Contact us for details.
Please be sure to bring a Camelback, or similar hydration pack with pockets to carry additional items needed on the trail.
Limited vehicle support means you will want to carry an extra layer, multi-tools, food and water.
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
Thank your Guides, by tipping
Gratuities for your Trek Travel guides are not included in your trip price. We recommend tipping 7.5-10% of your trip price for the guide
team. Local currency is preferred and unless you want to tip separately, guides will divide tips amongst themselves. Please tip your
guides at your discretion, based on their level of professionalism, guest care and service.
What’s Not Included
Airfare and transportation to and from the trip pick-up/drop-off locations
Lodging before and after the trip
Personal items purchased during the trip
Optional activities not scheduled by Trek Travel
Comprehensive bike fit
On select trips some meals are not included. On these trips, Trek Travel invites you to explore the local cuisine at your leisure.
Gratuities for your Trek Travel Guides may be given at your discretion in response to their professionalism and leadership.
Industry standard is for each individual guest to tip the guide team 7.5-10% of the trip price.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Mountain Hut Hólaskjól
Alftavatn Mountain Hut
Icelandair Hotel Reykjavík Marina
Lamskarðshólar, Iceland
Fjallabaksleið Syðri, Iceland
Reykjavík, Iceland
Mountain Hut Hólaskjól
Lamskarðshólar, Iceland Relax in
cozy comfort right outside Vatnajökull
National Park. Hólaskjól is a remote
collection of mountain huts and
cabins located next to the Eldgjá lava
Alftavatn Mountain Hut
Fjallabaksleið Syðri, Iceland The
mountain huts of the Iceland Touring
Association stretch across the remote
valleys and ridgelines of a beautiful
region of southern Iceland. This
Icelandair Hotel Reykjavík Marina
Reykjavík, Iceland Hotel Reykjavík
Marina, just steps from downtown
Reykjavik, is situated in a completely
renovated four-story building that has
become a landmark among local
Alternate Hotel: H
Hut
Hvanngil, Iceland
Alternate Hotel:
Hut Hvanngil, Ice
the The Midvegu
collection of huts
breathtaking view
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field, which last erupted in the years
934-940. It is one of the most
peaceful and beautful accomodations
you'll find in Iceland. Take a 5-minute
stroll from your front porch up the
lavafield to an unnamed waterfall in
Syðri-Ófæra, that many call Silfurfoss
or Litli-Gullfoss. We'll be sleeping
together in the lodge here in sleeping
bags provided by Trek Travel.
particular hut is located on the
halfway mark of the popular
Laugavegur Hiking Trail. Nestled
alongside the deep and mysterious
Lake Alftavatn, you'll tuck into your
sleeping bag for one more night at
this remote refuge.
residents. It is located next to the
historical Slippur dry-dock. Blending
the dynamic, creative atmosphere of
this rapidly developing district with
the country’s strong fishing
traditions, this beautiful property
offers everyone the opportunity to
see and experience the capital at its
best.
and accommoda
people. You will s
hut on select dat
TRAVEL SERVICES
How to get there
We suggest that you arrive at least one day prior to the trip start, which will enable you to adjust to the time zone and minimize the risk
of missing the trip start due to flight-related delays. We recommend that you fly into Keflavik International Airport (KEF).
CenterHotel Klöpp offers airport transfers. Call: 011 354 595 8511 to schedule pickup. Or, choose Gray Line Iceland. They offer
transport to and from the airport with their Airport Express bus. Guaranteed departures 45 minutes after each scheduled flight arrival
and transport to the airport for all scheduled flights. As soon as you get off the plane you will find Gray Line Iceland sale office in the
arrival hall, where agents will arrange for your transportation to the city. The bus ride takes approximately 45 minutes and you can
chose between being dropped off at their bus terminal at Holtagarðar 10 (terminal to terminal) or at your accommodation within the
greater Reykjavík area (door to door). For your return to the airport, please make sure that you book your transfer in advance at Gray
Line sales office in Hafnarstræti 20, at your hotel lobby or book online at www.grayline.is for guaranteed departures. If you have chosen
door-to-door service please wait outside your accommodation 45 minutes before the scheduled departure. For more info, call: 011 354
540 1313 or email: [email protected]
Meeting time and location
Hotel Reykjavík Marina | Reykjavík, Iceland
Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Hotel Reykjavík Marina in Reykjavík at 9:00 AM on the first day of the trip. After a short
round of introductions, you guides will discuss the rules of bike safety and specific cycling tips for riding in Iceland before familiarizing
you with your Trek bicycle and ensuring a comfortable fit. Today we'll ride the area surrounding Hengill, a volcano that lies in Iceland’s
western volcanic belt.
If you will be late for the meeting time or are going to miss it altogether, please inform your guides. You will receive an email a week
before the trip start with their names and contact details. If you cannot reach them, please call the Mountain Hut Hólaskjól (+354 855
5812), and leave a message with your expected arrival time and contact details.
Departing time and location
Hotel Reykjavík Marina | Reykjavík, Iceland
You will say farewell to your guides at 1:00 PM at the Hotel Reykjavík Marina in Reykjavík after an optional morning ride. For your
return to the airport, please make sure that you book your transfer in advance at Gray Line sales office in Hafnarstræti 20, at your hotel
lobby, or online at www.grayline.is for guaranteed departures.
Before & After: Reykjavík
Cosmopolitan Reykjavík is the worlds northern-most capital city. A hub for those choosing to escape to the rugged Icelandic
backcountry or those wanting to stay close and explore the world renowned urban music and arts scene, Reykjavík is a wondrous city.
Wander into one of numerous museums to learn of a rich Viking heritage, lounge in a quaint cafe, visit Hallgrimskirkja church or journey
into the rotating Perlan glass dome to capture unmatched views of the surrounding mountains and the tempestuous North Atlantic.
Reykjavík is a town to behold. We recommend the following accommodations for your pre-trip hotel:
Alda Hotel Reykjavík
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Stay right in the heart of Reykjavík along famous Laugavegur St. Mingle with friends or locals in the hip lobby "Barber Bar", relax in the
common lounge or indulge in a treat from the hotel's in-house Chocalatier. Choose between a number of spacious and modern rooms,
enjoy a complimentary daily breakfast buffet and kick back before embarking on your mountain bike adventure.
Laugavegi 66-68 101 Reykjavík, Iceland | 011 354 553 9366 | www.aldahotel.is | ~$275
Reykjavík Lights Hotel
Reykjavík Lights offers a great location on the edge of the Reykjavík city center which is within short walking distance. This Nordic style
hotel is an elegant and fascinating property all in the same. Each of the 105 rooms at this award-winning hotel is themed by a specific
day in the ancient nordic calendar and decorated with artwork demonstrating local traditions and experiences distinctive for a particular
season, such as the Northern lights and the midnight sun. Complimentary breakfast and hi-speed wifi are included.
Sudurlandsbraut 12, Reykjavík 108, Iceland | 011 354 513 9000 | www.keahotels.is/en/hotels/reykjavik-lights | ~$175
Best Western Reykjavík
This 85-room, three-star hotel is just a quick walk from Reykjavík's main shopping center. Also conveniently located near a number of
fantastic restaurants, cafes, museums and famous Klambratún Park. Enjoy the in-house lounge, lobby bar, complimentary breakfast
buffet, self-serve laundry and complimentary wifi.
Raudararstigur 37, Reykjavík 105, Iceland | 011 354 514 7000 | www.hotelreykjavik.is | ~$145
FAQS
Trip Changes
Our itineraries are an approximation of our trips. Trek Travel strives to offer each and every guest a vacation of a lifetime on every trip.
At times routes, hotels, activities, etc. listed here may change at the discretion of the trip designer or guides to improve the trip
experience.
What are the daily rides like?
Rider Type | 3
Average Daily Mileage | 17
Terrain | Mountainous
Average Daily Elevation | 1,500 ft
On all of our trips Trek Travel strives to find the most enjoyable but challenging trails, over a variety of terrain, in order to fully
experience the region. Our Iceland Mountain Bike trip is best suited for our Type 3 Riders with at least intermediate technical mountain
biking skills. See Itinerary for specific daily ride distances and mileage options.
Terrain in Iceland is mountainous and rugged in nature. Riders can expect 4+ hours per day on their bikes in a remote landscape. You'll
experience a few hike-a-bike sections and a river crossing or two. High adventure!
What are the options for a non-rider travel companion?
On most Trek Travel trips, we offer non-riding options for riders who want to take the afternoon off, or travel companions who want to
spend little or no time in the saddle. Some of these options may need to be scheduled before your trip–please contact one of our Trip
Consultants for more information. Expenses and/or related transportation to these activities may not be included in the trip price. See
Included In The Trip Price for more information. Some non-riding options on this trip are:
Hiking
Swimming
Relaxing in the hot springs
What is weather going to be like?
Iceland can get fairly chilly, even in the heart of summer. Nighttime lows can dip into the 50's F and daytime temps can reach into the
70's F. Weather in the mountains can change quickly, so it is necessary for you to be prepared with appropriate rain gear and cooler
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weather layers. You'll have a number of opportunities to warm up in a trail-side hot spring too!
HOW BIG ARE THE GROUPS?
The average group size on a Trek Travel trip powered by Big Mountain is 4-10 guests. If you wish to find out how many people are on
your specific trip, please contact our Trip Consultant via email at [email protected].
WHAT BIKES WILL WE RIDE?
Specific models depend on the destination. On your Iceland mountain bike trip, the use of a Trek Fuel Ex 8 27.5 full suspension
mountain bike is included in the price of your trip. You will be given one bike for the duration of the trip.
HOW ARE TRIPS POWERED BY BIG MOUNTAIN DIFFERENT FROM OTHER TREK TRAVEL TRIPS?
We have partnered with Big Mountain Bike Adventures to bring our guests closer to some of the best singletrack mountain bike riding
on the planet. On these trips, your guides will be both from Trek Travel and from Big Mountain, combining the expertise of leading
cycling vacations of a lifetime with backcountry experts of mountain biking.
What kind of support do you offer?
Each day your guides will describe the featured ride and your supported options for the day. Those who want more miles and more
technical terrain and those who want less may split into two groups in order to ride different trails or simply go at different speeds. If you
choose not to ride with a guide you will need a thorough understanding of the trail map, adequate food and water, and tools to address
bike repair issues that may arise. Cell coverage is limited in the areas you’ll be riding so you must be self-sufficient.
We will offer shuttles to and from the trailhead some days, but other rides begin and end closer to town, or in town. You are always
welcome to ride directly back to the hotel for more miles on the days that shuttles are offered. Each day, depending on the featured
ride, the weather, and the desires of the group, your guides will decide how best to support the ride with a combination of on the bike
support and vehicle support.
What kind of information is provided?
When a trip is booked, a guest confirmation letter is immediately sent out. One week prior to the trip start you will receive an email
containing a trip start meeting location reminder and any last minute information that you will need to know before your trip. Once you
arrive at your destination Trek Travel staff will brief you on the day-to-day plan for the trip and provide you with a packet containing daily
route guides and a detailed map allowing you to ride with complete confidence and independence.
Can I bring my own bike?
You are more than welcome to bring your own bike, but please keep in mind Trek Travel cannot assume responsibility for the safety of
or damage to your bike that may exceed what and how we maintain the safety and well-being of our own fleet of bikes. You are
responsible for providing the maintenance to your bike and any spare parts that may be used during the trip. You are also responsible
for assembling your bike upon arrival and disassembling it upon departure.
What kind of shape do I need to be in?
You don't need to be a professional athlete to enjoy a Trek Travel mountain bike trip, however due to the level of riding we do
encourage each guest to come with a good level of physical fitness. This vacation is most appropriate for Rider Type 3. Please consult
our Rider Types to find out what type of weekly rides you should be able to complete in order to enjoy this vacation or talk with your Trip
Consultant for more information. We always recommend that guests consult their physician before coming on a cycling vacation.
What if I have to change or cancel my trip?
We understand things happen in life and sometimes you have to cancel or change your bike tour. We want to make it as easy as
possible to do so and below you will find our timeline. If you ever have a question, just give us a call, 866 464 8735. Read our
cancellation policy.
General FAQs
Didn't find what you were looking for? Check out our General FAQs section. You will find answers to all the most common questions
that don't necessarily pertain to a specific trip.
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