Icelandic Magic & Witchcraft


25 March - 5 April 2027

As the birthplace of the Icelandic Sagas and the Prose Edda, the source text of Nordic Mythology, this Nordic country is steeped in magic, mythology, and folklore. Recent surveys suggest that more than half of native Icelanders believe in the existence of elves, and the otherworldly surroundings of Iceland's natural wonders might make a believer out of you, too!

Our journey begins in Iceland's capital of Reykjavik, where we will explore the city and meet with a local historian to earn our diplomas in Icelandic Folklore. We then head out on a private guided tour bus around Iceland's famous Ring Road to visit with locals and hear their stories of the Huldufólk, or hidden people, of Icelandic Folklore. Along the way, we will explore amazing sites famous for sightings of trolls, elves, and even a sea monster! We will visit black sand beaches, volcanoes, ice caves, glaciers, geysers, waterfalls, Icelandic ponies, and more!

Our trip will also take us to filming locations for popular movies and TV shows such as Thor: The Dark World, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, Journey to the Center of the Earth, Captain America: Civil War, and Game of Thrones.

Chase the Aurora Borealis on a magical springtime retreat in Iceland

Retreat Highlights

Hæ! I’m Randall Ulyate, and I will be leading our retreat in Iceland! I am a Humanities professor and a 500-hour advanced Yoga Alliance Certified Yoga Instructor with a PhD in Mythology. My research focuses on haunted historic and archaeological sites and the practical function and application of folklore.

With a daily schedule combining mythology, movement, history, and witchcraft, participants will gain a deeper understanding of Nordic mythology, learn local folklore, and build community with the group. Iceland is one of my favorite places to visit, even though eg tala ikki Islensku (I don’t speak Icelandic!)

-Randall, PhD, RYT500

Have an idea or request for a tour destination or looking to craft a custom retreat? Contact us at hello@FernwehCollective.org

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