Iceland is stepping into 2025 stronger than ever, reclaiming its position as one of the world’s most dynamic “coolcation” destinations. With record-breaking tourism numbers on the horizon—Keflavík International Airport expects over 2.32 million international arrivals, surpassing 2018’s high—the “Land of Fire and Ice” is redefining luxury, wellness and adventure.
U.S. travelers accounted for nearly 27.5 percent of arrivals in 2024, making them Iceland’s largest inbound market. From geothermal retreats and hotel debuts to adrenaline-fueled excursions and cultural immersions, Iceland continues to captivate travellers in 2025 with new experiences that go beyond the ordinary.
Hotel Openings and Refurbishments
Höfði Lodge (New in 2025)
Perched above a fjord near Akureyri, this new luxury lodge offers 40 spacious rooms and suites—many with private hot tubs for Northern Lights viewing. On-site amenities include a restaurant, rooftop bar, spa, gym, golf facilities and equestrian options. Advisors can position Höfði Lodge for active clients, with adventures like heliskiing, whale watching, horseback riding and tailored helicopter excursions.
For more information, visit hofdilodge.com.
Hotel Akureyri (Expanded 2024)
Fresh from a four-story expansion, Hotel Akureyri combines boutique charm with added capacity, offering 52 new guestrooms, a refreshed lobby, lounge and bar. It’s an ideal downtown base for clients seeking modern comfort with personalized service.
For more information, visit hotel-akureyri.com.
Skáld Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton (Opening Summer 2025)
The first internationally branded property in northern Iceland, this Curio Collection debut brings 70 guestrooms to Hafnarstræti Street in Akureyri. With an all-day restaurant, outdoor courtyard and innovative social club, the Skáld Hotel blends modern hospitality with cultural storytelling.
For more information, visit hilton.com.
Wellness Openings and Updates
Laugarás Lagoon (Opening September 2025)
Located along the Golden Circle, this two-level lagoon is set to become a must-visit wellness escape. With a cascading waterfall, grotto, forest saunas overlooking the Hvíta River and two swim-up bars, Laugarás Lagoon blends modern design with Iceland’s natural serenity. Guests can also savor seasonal, locally inspired cuisine at Ylja Restaurant, helmed by acclaimed chef Gísli Matt.
Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths
A classic reborn, Fontana has welcomed travelers since 1929 and now shines after a thoughtful refurbishment. Visitors can unwind in geothermal pools, watch bubbling hot springs, and taste traditional rye bread baked underground by natural heat—an authentic Icelandic tradition.
Sky Lagoon
Reykjavík’s oceanfront spa continues to expand its wellness edge. Guests can indulge in the signature seven-step Skjól ritual, now enhanced by a striking new sauna featuring Iceland’s largest single-pane glass window overlooking the Atlantic. The ritual concludes with antioxidant-rich crowberry juice, adding a flavorful finish.
Adventure and Wildlife Experiences
Whale Watching with Friends of Moby Dick (Húsavík)
Family-owned since 1994, this intimate operation sets sail on the oak boat Moby Dick for 2.5–3-hour excursions in Skjálfandi Bay. Guests may encounter humpback, minke, blue and even sperm whales, as well as dolphins and porpoises. Each outing emphasizes sustainability and education, and travelers enjoy perks like discounted entry to the Húsavík Whale Museum.
Heli-Rafting with Arctic Rafting (Markarfljót River)
Adrenaline-seeking clients will be drawn to this helicopter-access rafting adventure. Starting with a scenic flight into the Markarfljót Canyon, travelers then tackle class III rapids with expert guides. Outings include full gear, and seasonal options run mid-June through September.
Water Safaris with Ribsafari (Vestmannaeyjar/Westman Islands)
For a blend of wildlife, history and storytelling, Ribsafari takes travelers by boat to puffin colonies, volcanic landscapes and sea caves. Highlights include acoustic concerts inside a cavern and sweeping views of lava fields from the 1973 eruption. Comfortable boats with indoor/outdoor seating ensure the experience suits a wide range of travelers.
For more information about Iceland, visit visiticeland.com.
