Iceland with Silent Book Club

Dates

Nov 8–14, 2026

Group Size

8–14 Travelers

Duration

7 days, 6 nights

Activity Level

Exploration

About This Trip

Silent Book Club's Iceland Reading Retreat is all about the quiet magic of a Nordic winter: thick wool sweaters, steaming cups of coffee, good books, and even better company. We’ve designed this trip to be slow and intentional, opting out of the rush of typical tours and embracing the rhythm of Jólabókaflóð—the Icelandic tradition of gifting books and reading by the fire. Our journey starts in Reykjavik, a UNESCO City of Literature, wandering through historic bookstores and coffee shops. From there, we’ll escape to the countryside to seek out the Northern Lights during the new moon, when the sky is at its darkest for the best chance of catching the aurora. This is an itinerary custom designed for adventurous introverts and women seeking a balance of breathtaking nature and cozy refuge. We’ll explore waterfalls, volcanic black sand beaches, and the bright blue ice of the Vatnajökull glacier, returning to the warmth of well-appointed boutique hotels with hot tubs, saunas, and stunning views. We’ve made sure there is plenty of time to soak in geothermal pools, browse local Bókakaffið (book cafes), and simply sit in silence with your book. This isn’t just a sightseeing trip; it’s a chance to settle into a different pace of life. You’ll be surrounded by fellow readers who understand the need for both connection and solitude, coming together for meals and adventures, then drifting back into the comfort of your own story. It is a week to breathe deeply, explore softly, and experience the raw beauty of the North with kindred spirits. All lodging, daily activities, local transportation and guide, breakfasts, and 5 out of 6 dinners are included in the price, so you can invest up front and then relax and enjoy the journey with worrying about your wallet. Your host, Guinevere, has planned and hosted reading retreats in Costa Rica, Hawaii, and Italy. This is our inaugural Iceland trip.
Get Notified
Sign up for email updates

Meet Your Host

Silent Book Club
Silent Book Club

I'm Guinevere, co-founder of Silent Book Club and host of SBC Reading Retreats! Before starting SBC in 2012, I spent more than a decade in book publishing and startups. I'm the author of I'd Rather be Reading: A Library of Art for Book Lovers, and I've been a guest on Oprah, the TODAY Show, NPR, and more. Let's travel the world and read together!

View Full Profile

Trip Activities

  • Welcome Drink at Mál og Menning

  • Selfoss

  • Bókakaffið - The Book Coffee

  • Northern Lights Spotting (weather dependent)

  • Seljalandsfoss Waterfall Walk

  • Skogafoss Waterfall Walk

  • Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach Visit

  • Vatnajokull Glacier Hike

  • Sky Lagoon

Included in Your Trip

  • Double occupancy in 3-star hotels and a guesthouse (limited single rooms available)

  • Local Guide throughout trip

  • All city transfers

  • 6 Breakfasts and 5 Dinners

Not Included

  • Flights (except as noted)

  • Food & Alcohol (except as noted)

  • Visas & Travel Insurance

  • Airport Transfers

  • Tips & Gratuity

What's included by Your Host

Reykjavik, UNESCO City of Literature

Informal Gathering
Embark on an optional walking tour of Reykjavik’s famous bookstores. Start at Bókin, an antiquarian bookstore that smells of old paper and history. Visit Eymundsson (the oldest bookstore chain in Iceland) to stock up on Icelandic Sagas or Nordic Noir, and pop into Bókabúðin Bergstaðastræti for a curated collection of illustrated art and design books, cookbooks, and more.

Book Swap Royale

Informal Gathering
Bring along a book to swap (or hand off one you've finished on the trip) at our Book Swap Royale! This "Yankee Swap" take on a standard book exchange has become an SBC Reading Retreat tradition. Get ready to trade, steal, and bargain to get your book pick... and may the odds be ever in your favor!

Itinerary

*All durations are approximate

Day 1

Welcome to Iceland!

Welcome! Please be prepared to meet in the lobby at 5:30pm to depart for your welcome dinner. The dinner reservation time will be finalized closer to your trip date. If you plan on arriving today, we recommend flying into KEF.

dinner

Get to know the group. Your welcome dinner at a local restaurant is included. Toast to an exciting trip ahead! Your meal tonight will either be a set menu or a la carte. Only tap water is included. The water in Iceland is in fact one of the cleanest and most delicious drinking water in the world.

Welcome Drink at Mál og Menning

1 Hour

After dinner, enjoy a welcome drink at Mál og Menning, a lively literary café surrounded by books and music.

Skuggi Hotel

Night 1/1

Overnight in Reykjavik.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 2

Selfoss and The Book Coffee

Morning is free to enjoy at your own pace before setting out on a scenic drive from Reykjavík through the South Iceland countryside towards Selfoss. In the afternoon, stop to visit Bókakaffið, a charming book café where you can browse shelves of books while enjoying coffee and homemade treats in a relaxed, cozy setting.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style.The exact breakfast will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Selfoss

1 Hour

Stop in one of South Iceland’s growing towns, set along the banks of the Ölfusá River and surrounded by wide open landscapes. Take time to stroll through the town centre, admire the colourful buildings and views of the river, and enjoy a relaxed walk while getting a feel for everyday life.

Bókakaffið - The Book Coffee

Visit Bókakaffið - The Book Coffee. This charming book café is filled with shelves of books covering a wide range of topics and languages, creating a library-like atmosphere. Wander through the collection, browse old and new titles, and take time to sit among the books while enjoying the calm, creative surroundings that make this place a favourite local meeting spot.

dinner

Dinner at the hotel is included. Your exact meal offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Northern Lights Spotting (weather dependent)

1 Hour

Lucky visitors will have the opportunity to gaze up at the beautiful dancing waves of light that stretch across the sky. Please note: The Northern Lights are only visible during certain times of the year and weather conditions. They may not be visible for all groups.

Reykjavik, UNESCO City of Literature

Embark on an optional walking tour of Reykjavik’s famous bookstores. Start at Bókin, an antiquarian bookstore that smells of old paper and history. Visit Eymundsson (the oldest bookstore chain in Iceland) to stock up on Icelandic Sagas or Nordic Noir, and pop into Bókabúðin Bergstaðastræti for a curated collection of illustrated art and design books, cookbooks, and more.

Aurora Lodge Hotel

Night 1/1

Overnight in Hvolsvöllur.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 3

Iceland’s Southern Coast

Your epic adventure continues with a road trip through Iceland’s spectacular South Coast, where the forces of nature continue to dramatically shape the island. Keep your camera ready to record the breath-taking scenery you’ll pass along the way. After breakfast you will be privately transferred to visit Seljalandsfoss Waterfall and Skogafoss Waterfall. From there you will continue to the Black Sand Beach Reynisfjara for scenery unlike no other. You will then be taken into town for lunch on your own. Lastly, you will be transferred to your new accommodations where you will have the remainder of the evening at your leisure. Today is filled with many stops and walking to different viewpoints so we recommend you wear comfortable shoes and dress warm today.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall Walk

1 Hour

This morning you will be privately transferred 30 minutes to Seljalandsfoss Waterfall. A short hike will take you to the magnificent falls, also one of the most popular sites in Iceland. The 200 foot cascade is fed from a volcanic glacier and thunders over steep granite walls. A pathway behind the falls will allow you to experience the power of the falling water. You will get wet from the mist created by the waterfall, so plan to bring suitable clothing, like a waterproof jacket. The path to the falls is unpaved gravel so please be prepared for mud in some places.

Skogafoss Waterfall Walk

1 Hour

You will be transferred 25 minutes to explore the Skogafoss Waterfall. There are two viewpoints for this waterfall, one is ground level while the other is at a higher point requiring stairs to reach it. The height is similar to walking up 5 floors. Walking over emerald green landscapes, beside rugged canyons and countless waterfalls, you’ll be surrounded by giant rainbows as you approach Skogafoss. Keep your camera handy, this is said to be the most breathtaking hike of your visit. The path to the falls is unpaved gravel so please be prepared for mud in some places.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach Visit

1 Hour

From the falls you will be transferred 30 minutes to a place like no other. You’ll be enchanted by the mystical Reynisfjara black sand beach. The panorama of basalt caves, black beach sand and giant stacks of basalt rock overlooking the Atlantic Ocean could be mistaken for a completely different planet. The waves are dangerous so there will be no swimming but you will be able to walk up and down the beach taking in the scenery. As it will be windier on the coast, please be sure to bring layers to bundle up for this experience. From here you will be transferred into town for lunch on your own.

dinner

Dinner at the hotel is included. Your exact meal offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Northern Lights Spotting (weather dependent)

1 Hour

Lucky visitors will have the opportunity to gaze up at the beautiful dancing waves of light that stretch across the sky. Please note: The Northern Lights are only visible during certain times of the year and weather conditions. They may not be visible for all groups.

Book Swap Royale

Bring along a book to swap (or hand off one you've finished on the trip) at our Book Swap Royale! This "Yankee Swap" take on a standard book exchange has become an SBC Reading Retreat tradition. Get ready to trade, steal, and bargain to get your book pick... and may the odds be ever in your favor!

Hotel Kria

Night 1/1

Overnight in Vik.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 4

Vatnajökull National Park

This morning, head toward Vatnajökull National Park and enjoy the views as you make your way into the area. Continue with a glacier walk on Vatnajökull, where you’ll spend a few hours exploring the ice and taking in the surrounding mountain scenery.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Transfer to Vatnajökull National Park

1 Hour 30 Mins

Take a private transfer to Vatnajökull National Park. Stops for the bathrooms will be made as needed.

Vatnajokull Glacier Hike

2 Hours

A glacier hike on Vatnajökull takes you across bright blue ice, shallow crevasses, and rugged frozen ridges. You’ll need to wear ankle‑high boots so the crampons can be fitted securely, making the walk steady and comfortable even for beginners.

Hotel Kria

Night 2/1

Overnight in Vik.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 5

Spa Day

Today you will head towards Hveragerdi. Once you arrive, settle in for a spa day at the Frost and Fire Hotel, where you can unwind in the riverside hot tubs and sauna surrounded by geothermal steam and mountain views. It’s an easy, restorative day designed for pure relaxation.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast will be determined by your finalized hotel.

dinner

Dinner at the hotel is included. Your exact meal offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Northern Lights Spotting (weather dependent)

1 Hour

Lucky visitors will have the opportunity to gaze up at the beautiful dancing waves of light that stretch across the sky. Please note: The Northern Lights are only visible during certain times of the year and weather conditions. They may not be visible for all groups.

Transfer to Hveragerdi

2 Hours

Transfer from Vik to Hveragerdi. Stop for any scenic sight and needed bathroom stops.

Frost and Fire Hotel

Night 1/1

Overnight in Hveragerdi.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 6

Journey Back to Reykjavik & Sky Lagoon

After breakfast, head back toward Reykjavik. But before enjoy one last relaxing soak in the geothermal baths. Upon arrival in Reykjavik you will have free time before meeting up with the group for your farewell dinner.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Transfer to Sky Lagoon

1 Hour

Take a private transfer to Sky Lagoon. Stops for bathrooms will be made along the way as needed.

Sky Lagoon

1 Hour 30 Mins

No journey to Iceland is complete without a soak in the geothermal baths! A visit to Sky Lagoon feels like stepping into a dreamy oceanside spa carved right into the edge of the world. You slip into the warm, steamy water and float toward the infinity edge, where the lagoon seems to spill straight into the Atlantic. The air smells faintly of salt and geothermal steam, and the views stretch out across the coastline in every direction. Please remember to pack your bathing suit.

Transfer to Reykjavik

20 Mins

Take a private transfer to Reykjavik. Stops for the bathrooms will be made as needed.

dinner

Farewell dinner at a local restaurant is included. Toast to a fantastic week exploring with new friends! Your meal tonight will either be a set menu or a la carte. Only tap water is included. The water in Iceland is in fact one of the cleanest and most delicious drinking water in the world.

Skuggi Hotel

Night 1/1

Overnight in Reykjavik.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 7

Wave Goodbye to Your Newfound Friends!

All good things must come to an end, but only until your next adventure! Enjoy a final breakfast and then make your own way onward. If departing directly from the hotel, we recommend flying out of KEF.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Show DetailsHide Details

Airports

Recommended Arrival Airport:

Keflavík International Airport (KEF)

Recommended Departure Airport:

Keflavík International Airport (KEF)

Add-Ons

Private Accommodation

$1,112
Love connecting with your group but also value some solo time to recharge? Opt for a private room and enjoy a little extra space to unwind between adventures. Availability is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

Pre-Trip Accommodation

$255
Ease into your adventure with an extra night at the hotel before your trip begins. It’s the perfect way to settle in, rest up, and start your journey stress-free.

Post-Trip Accommodation

$255
Extend your stay with an additional night at the hotel after your trip ends. Enjoy more time to explore or simply relax before your journey home.

Airport Transfer

Price Depends on Transfer
Skip the hassle and start your trip smoothly with a pre-arranged transfer from the airport to your hotel, arranged through our trusted partner, Transferz. You can add this service in your TrovaTrip Portal once your trip is Closed, about 30 days before it starts.

Insurance Policy

Price Depends on Insurance
Travel has a way of bringing the unexpected—sometimes it’s magic, sometimes it’s where’s my baggage?! You can’t put a price on peace of mind. That’s why you can easily add trip insurance during your TrovaTrip booking, powered by our trusted partner, Travel Insured International. Choose the plan that fits your needs: look for coverage that includes trip or flight cancellations, lost baggage, and reimbursement for losses related to accidents, illness, evacuation, or pre-existing medical conditions.

Physical Activity Level:Exploration

These trips require some movement, but slow and steady is the name of the game. Maybe a mid-length walking tour or at-your-pace sightseeing. No rush.

Cancellation Policy

We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:

Spot Pending

100% refundable
Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.

Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip

Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip
You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.

Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip

Non-refundable
At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind

We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events—from illness to emergencies—that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

Want first dibs on this trip?

Be the first to know when spots open, take advantage of early bird savings, and more!

Join 30,000 Travelers Who've Booked With TrovaTrip

Explore the world with confidence. You're in great company!

Flexible Payment Options

Reserve your spot with just 25% down, pay in full, or apply for a payment plan at booking. Your dream trip, your way.

Trusted Local Experiences

We partner with 50 handpicked Trip Operators worldwide to give you authentic, unforgettable adventures.

Thousands of Reviews

Don't just take our word for it, read what real Travelers are saying on Trova, Trustpilot, and Google.

Here When You Need Us

Questions? We're just a tap away. Get support via Chat or our Help Center.

FAQ

Traveling with TrovaTrip

What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?

Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.

How does a Trova Trip actually work? Who's involved?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your trip to life:

  • The Host is your community leader—the person who brings the group together, sets the vibe, and curates the overall experience. They may lead a workshop or activity during the trip, but their main focus is connection and community, not logistics.
  • The Operator is the certified, independent company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle the logistics like accommodations, transportation, Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to ensure a high-quality travel experience.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform that powers it all. We connect Hosts with trusted Operators, provide the tools to design and manage trips, and support Travelers before and during their journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host shapes the experience and brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:

  • The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
  • The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?

First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:

    • Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
    • Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
    • Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
    • Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
    • We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.

We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”

Can I book solo?

Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.

What if I need to cancel?

We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:

  • Spot pending100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
  • Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your tripPartially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment. 
  • Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your tripNon-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

What's included in the trip cost?

Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.

Does my Host make money from hosting?

TL;DR: Sometimes! Many Hosts earn income from leading trips, but not always.

Every trip on Trova is uniquely shaped by the Host. They choose the destination, curate the itinerary, and rally their community to come along for the adventure. It’s a big effort (and a rewarding one, or so we hear!).

A Host’s earnings depend on the trip price they set and how many Travelers join. Trova provides the tools, support, and platform—but ultimately, income isn’t guaranteed.

Will I have free time?

Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.

What do the activity levels mean?

Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:

  • Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
  • Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
  • Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
  • Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
  • Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)

You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.

Who can I contact with more questions?

Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!

Accommodations

What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?

When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.

Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?

Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.

Trip Operations & Compliance

Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?

Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.

Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?

If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.

General Travel Questions

Do I need any documentation to travel?

It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise. 

Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.

Do I need any vaccines?

It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!

Are flights included in the trip cost?

Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs?

We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.