Adventurous Iceland as an incentive destination
Over the past 25 years corporate group travel increased enormously, driven on the one hand by aviation, as it is after all increasingly easy to fly from A to B, and on the other hand because companies have a growing interest in engaging their employees or customers with them in ways other than just through good basic employment conditions or purchasing terms.
Corporate staff trips increasingly popular
For employees under 40, salary still comes first, but it must definitely be accompanied by other things, such as the opportunity to broaden their knowledge and, in third place, being surprised by the employer with compliments, whether in words or, preferably, in perks.
That is why the proportion of MICE travel is still increasing, something we at goMICE notice every day. Furthermore, things are allowed to be done differently than before, as companies have often already visited the “regular” destinations such as Barcelona and Rome.
Fortunately, an increasing number of destinations are also becoming possible. Whereas previously we did not suggest destinations such as Croatia, Riga, Kraków, etc., we now do so. These cities are therefore increasingly on the rise, and as goMICE we can also guarantee the quality.
Two destinations that we are increasingly proposing include the wonderful destinations of Iceland and Lapland. In this blog, more about Iceland. Right in the middle of the sea and just below the Arctic Circle lies Iceland. Iceland enjoys a pleasant climate with mild winters and cool summers, something many people do not know! Despite being only a three-hour flight from Amsterdam, in Iceland you find yourself in a completely different world. We at goMICE regularly organise group trips to Iceland and are happy to tell you more about this destination!
A goMICE group trip to Iceland
Iceland lies on a fault line between the Eurasian plate and the North American plate. Because these are constantly moving, the island is gradually getting larger and this also causes a lot of volcanic activity. Iceland has around 330,000 inhabitants, of whom well over 200,000 live in and around the capital, Reykjavik. You can therefore imagine that, outside the capital, it is a very vast and tranquil island.
What makes Iceland so special to us is that it consists of all kinds of different landscapes. On the east and north coasts you will find the familiar high fjords and bays. The south, on the other hand, has many flat sandy plains created by past volcanic eruptions and meltwater. There are also many glacier tongues in the south originating from the large ice cap in the middle of the island. We think Iceland is a fantastic destination for a incentive trip.
How do you explore Iceland?
Icelandic roads are easily passable in and around the city. Ring Road 1 runs around the island and, except for a few short stretches, is fully paved. The roads towards the mountains and the interior of Iceland often consist of loose gravel. The mountain roads are narrow and not made for driving fast a to b to travel. That is why we almost always arrange hire cars for the groups so that they can explore the surrounding area. Most roads are really good and it is difficult to get lost: the signposting is very clearly indicated and goMICE provides a clear route description to the activities. Please note that in Iceland it is compulsory to always driving with lights on, day and night. The Icelandic authorities strictly monitor this too!
Visiting the Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is, alongside Reykjavik, the most visited part of Iceland, and for good reason. In just one day you can see and experience a great deal of beauty. In order to enjoy the surroundings to the full, we plan a visit to the Golden Circle for the end or beginning of the day, when there are a lot fewer tourists.
Gullfoss waterfalls
In our opinion, one of Iceland's most beautiful waterfalls is Gullfoss. At the very least, it is the most impressive! It is very wide, and because of the double waterfall, the water plunges downwards with great force. You can get very close to the waterfall, which makes the experience extra special! In the 1920s, there were plans to use it to generate electricity. Fortunately, that was put a stop to back then, so that we can still enjoy this waterfall today.
Hot springs
Hverir, popularly known as Námaskarö, is the mountain pass between Námafjall and Dalfjall. On the eastern slope, at the foot of Námafjall and right next to the ring road, there are boiling mud pools and sulphur springs. From this mountain you have a lovely view of the surrounding area.
Natural hot springs
You have surely heard before that Iceland is the land of hot springs and natural baths. After a day enjoying the raw nature, you can relax in a warm bath with the most beautiful views you can possibly imagine! The Blue Lagoon is one of the best-known hot springs and is not called Iceland's biggest tourist attraction for nothing: expensive and very busy. We often suggest Mývatn Nature Baths as a much better alternative. It is cheaper and whereas you are never the only one at the Blue Lagoon, it is often wonderfully peaceful at the Mývatn Nature Baths. You have large parts of the pool to yourself, which in turn naturally contributes to a relaxing experience. These baths are located in the north of the country, meaning a visit takes a little more time, but it is definitely worth it.
Did you know that it is better not to wear jewellery when visiting a thermal spring, as the water can turn them black? The same goes for your hair. If you still want to submerge your head, make sure you put conditioner in your hair beforehand and do not rinse it out!
Fjord
During a group tour, we almost always include a visit to the Icelandic mountains and fjords in our programme, such as the Mjóifjördur. This is a long and narrow fjord surrounded by high mountains, steep cliffs and beautiful waterfalls. This fjord is located in the east in the small village of Brekka, which is home to just 42 people. This makes Brekka the smallest village in Iceland, an experience in its own right!
Reykjavík
We practically never skip the Icelandic capital. Reykjavik might not be the first city that comes to mind when you are looking for a group trip or incentive destination. Yet, as far as we are concerned, Reykjavik is a fun and unique destination to spend a few days. There is a lot to see and do, and the surrounding area is truly stunning. We arrange various and varied activities for you here, such as whale and dolphin watching, admiring the unique architecture of Harpa and visiting the Höfði house (known to many from the TV show 'Wie is de Mol').
Overnight stays in Iceland
Our hotel partner in Iceland is the Fossatún Country Hotel. This hotel offers impressive views of the Troll waterfalls and features an extensive collection of more than 3,000 vinyl records! The seasonal restaurant serves typically Icelandic dishes. You have access to hot tubs, there are barbecue facilities and there is a shared lounge where you can listen to (the 3,000) vinyl records. We believe this accommodation is one of the best locations in Iceland. Because there are only eight rooms available, for larger groups we know other unique hotels in the area.
An incentive trip to Iceland?
Iceland guarantees you a wonderful experience; smouldering volcanoes, hot springs, varied landscapes, idyllic buildings and magnificent nature. We would be delighted to take you to this adventurous Scandinavian destination for your corporate group trip or incentive. We will put together a surprising and original programme and arrange the entire trip down to the very last detail. Request a quote, so that we can brainstorm with you about all the possibilities!