When we traveled to Iceland from July 9, 2021 - July 16, 2021, we were required to show a negative COVID test to board our plane when traveling back to the US. Make sure to check current requirements as things are changing all the time.
Our negative COVID test had to be within 72 hours of boarding. Our flight left in the morning so I scheduled our tests on the morning of 7/14/21 so about 48 hours prior. That gave us time if our flight was delayed.
I scheduled and paid for the tests before we left for Iceland and all we had to do was arrive at the testing site at the time of our tests. It was a very quick and easy process. We had a rental car so had no issues getting to the testing site which was about a 5-minute drive from our hotel.
Enjoy reading all about Days 5 & 6 of our INCREDIBLE Iceland Adventure!
July 14, 2021 - Day 5: COVID Test, Omnon Ice Cream & Chocolate, and Sky Lagoon
After our typical morning breakfast at our hotel, we went for our required COVID test (requirement to re-enter the US). It was a quick and easy process and we received an email with our (thankfully) negative test results in about 45 minutes.
After our test was done we went to Kogga Pottery which is owned by a local artist. Our hotel has her interesting pieces in the lobby so we wanted to see what else she made. Bob purchased a very pretty vase and coffee mug. We had a nice conversation with the owner about Icelandic life and the process used to make the pottery. Talking to local people during our travels is always a highlight.
Omnom Chocolate Ice Cream Shop was on our list of places to visit. It's a small shop that sells chocolate bars and ice cream. We picked out a few bars for gifts and ordered ice cream to go. I ordered the Panda and Bob had the Swan. I didn't expect how artistic the ice cream was going to be. It was delicious!
Our next two stops were Braud & Co. and Reykjavik Roasters. This was our second visit to Braud & Co. and both times the food was so good! Bob enjoys trying new coffee beans so picked up a bag from Reykjavik Roasters.
Our last stop was Sky Lagoon. It's a similar concept to Blue Lagoon but much more upscale. I was really impressed with the Sky Pass private changing rooms and the amazing views of the ocean while in the lagoon.
Our package included the 7-Step Ritual experience which was relaxing and rejuvenating. Spa time was a great way to unwind after several long day trips.
Sky Lagoon was less crowded than Blue Lagoon and the views were stunning.
July 15, 2021 - Day 6: Day Trip to Snaefellsnes Region, Black Church, and Seal Beach
When selecting our hotel for this trip we looked for one that had breakfast included. Iceland is expensive and this helped save money and time. The breakfast was better than expected. It included a very nice selection of pastries, meat & cheese, eggs, cereal, pancakes, and assorted juices plus coffee & water. Another perk was no waiting for a table or server. It took us about 20 minutes each morning.
After our filling breakfast, we drove to the Snaefellsnes Region. It was a scenic and leisurely drive. This was the least crowded day we experienced. There were very few cars on the road and not many homes or buildings. The landscape was the ocean, mountains, lava fields, trees, sheep and horses...very enjoyable!
Our first stop was the Black Church which was in a picturesque location. Because it was rainy we didn't spend much time here. There is a lovely hotel very close to the church with amazing views that would be perfect for an overnight stay.
The seal beach was next. Unfortunately, we didn't see seals but did take in the gorgeous views. The beach area was a short walk from the parking lot.
N1, one of the local gas stations, was located halfway back to Reykjavik and we stopped for hot dogs, coffee, and ice cream.
Dinner was at a local food cafe, located in Reyjkavik and we each had pizza. The restaurant was in a local neighborhood and we enjoyed watching the people walk and bike around the area.
It was another amazing day in Iceland! #icelandisamazing
The beauty, the people, and the culture of Iceland are forever in my heart.
Day 7, our last day and travel home day coming soon.