Reykjavik: Natural Icelandic Fragrance Creation Workshop

Getting a feel for Iceland’s landscape isn’t just about glaciers, geysers, and volcanic vistas. Sometimes, the best way to connect with a place’s soul is through its scents. The Reykjavik: Natural Icelandic Fragrance Creation Workshop offers a rare chance to craft your own perfume inspired by Iceland’s wild landscapes, from mossy highlands to volcanic soils. This activity is perfect for those curious about the sensory side of travel and wanting a bespoke souvenir that’s truly original.

What we love about this experience? First, the focus on native ingredients, which makes your perfume a genuine piece of Iceland’s environment. Second, the hands-on nature of the workshop, giving you a real sense of how perfumers blend complex scents. And third, the opportunity to take home a personalized fragrance that captures Iceland’s raw beauty. That said, be prepared for a three-hour session – it’s immersive and engaging, but might be a bit long if you’re tight on time. This experience is ideal for aroma enthusiasts and travelers eager to deepen their Icelandic connection through scent.

Good To Know

• Authentic Icelandic ingredients: Use of wild botanicals, volcanic soil, arctic herbs.
• Hands-on experience: Craft your own bespoke 10ml perfume with expert guidance.
• Educational aspect: Learn how top, heart, and base notes interact.
• Unique souvenir: Take home a personally created fragrance and signature collection sample.
• Accessible and inclusive: Suitable for all, including wheelchair users.
• Location: Central Reykjavik at Hafnarhúsinu, Tryggvagata 17.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Introduction to the Icelandic Perfume Experience

This workshop is a wonderful way to gain a sensory appreciation of Iceland. Instead of just sight-seeing, you’re encouraged to smell, blend, and understand the landscapes through scent. Founded by composer and scent alchemist Nicholas Brittain Shaber in winter 2023, Ilmur & Sjór takes you into a playful world where natural ingredients tell Iceland’s story.

The atmosphere is relaxed yet informative, with guidance from knowledgeable instructors who bring a passion for native Icelandic ingredients. Expect to explore scents that evoke moss-covered highlands, smoky birch, arctic herbs, and mineral-rich earth. It’s a creative process that invites curiosity, making it a fun activity whether you’re a perfume aficionado or just a curious traveler.

One of the standout features is the authentic focus on native ingredients sourced directly from Iceland’s landscapes. You’ll learn how these raw materials develop into sophisticated scents, and how they can be balanced for a pleasing perfume. Plus, the workshop’s location at Hafnarhúsinu in central Reykjavik makes it easy to combine with other city explorations.

What’s Included and What to Expect

This three-hour experience offers a thorough, engaging introduction to natural perfumery. The session is designed for small groups, ensuring personalized attention and plenty of time to experiment. Guidance is in English, and the instructor makes complex blending techniques accessible to beginners.

You’ll have access to a curated selection of rare Icelandic ingredients and essential oils, giving your perfume a uniquely Icelandic character. The process involves understanding how top, heart, and base notes work together, with tips from the instructor on creating harmony in your blend.

Throughout the workshop, expect a mix of educational insights and creative experimentation. The instructor explains how scents are layered and balanced, using native ingredients like moss, volcanic earth, and Arctic herbs. Reviewers mention that the guidance “makes you feel like a real scent alchemist,” and appreciate how the instructor shares insider tips on blending.

By the end, you’ll craft your own 10ml bottle of perfume, a personal olfactory expression of Iceland. Plus, you’ll receive a travel-sized signature collection perfume to carry home—an excellent souvenir that’s far more meaningful than a typical tourist trinket.

The Experience at Hafnarhúsinu

Located at Tryggvagata 17, the meeting point is centrally situated, making it easy to reach from most Reykjavik accommodations. The workshop is wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusivity for travelers with mobility concerns. The venue itself is intimate, with a warm, creative vibe that encourages experimentation without pressure.

Participants have praised the atmosphere, describing it as “playful and engaging,” with a sense of discovery that keeps the session lively. The instructor’s enthusiasm and knowledge shine through, making the science behind perfumery understandable and fun.

Snacks and water are not included, so it’s wise to bring a bottle of water and a small snack if you want to keep your energy levels high. The total duration is three hours, which allows plenty of time to relax, experiment, and refine your blend.

Price and Value

At $207 per person, this experience might seem on the higher end for a three-hour workshop, but the value mostly comes from the personalized nature of the activity and the opportunity to create a one-of-a-kind fragrance. You leave with a 10ml bottle of perfume, a signature sample, and a deeper understanding of Icelandic scent traditions.

Compared to typical souvenir shopping, crafting your own perfume offers a meaningful connection to Iceland’s landscapes and culture. You’re not just buying a fragrance; you’re creating a sensory memory that’s entirely your own.

If you’re someone who appreciates artisan products or loves scent-based activities, this workshop offers a luxurious yet accessible way to engage with Iceland’s environment.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This workshop is perfect for travelers interested in aromas, natural products, or DIY activities. It appeals to those who want a more meaningful souvenir than a t-shirt or magnet. It’s also suitable for small groups, couples, or solo travelers looking for a creative break from sightseeing.

The activity’s accessibility and relaxed pace make it suitable for most, including wheelchair users and those new to perfumery. It’s especially attractive for those who love sensory experiences or want to learn more about how native ingredients can tell Iceland’s story.

Final Thoughts

The Reykjavik: Natural Icelandic Fragrance Creation Workshop offers a truly original way to connect with Iceland’s landscape through scent. It combines education, creativity, and cultural insight into a memorable three-hour session in the heart of Reykjavik. Expect to walk away with a personalized perfume that embodies Iceland’s wild beauty, crafted by your own hand.

This experience balances value with uniqueness, making it a worthwhile choice for anyone wanting to deepen their Iceland visit beyond sights and sounds. Whether you’re a fragrance lover or simply curious about Iceland’s native ingredients, this workshop promises a sensory journey you won’t forget.

FAQ

Is this workshop suitable for beginners? Yes, the workshop is designed to be accessible for all, including those new to perfumery. The instructor provides guidance to help you learn the basics and create your own scent.

How long is the workshop? The session lasts approximately three hours, allowing enough time for instruction, experimentation, and blending.

What do I need to bring? Water is recommended to stay hydrated. A small snack can help fuel your creativity, but everything else—like the ingredients and guidance—is provided.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues? Yes, the venue is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility concerns.

What is included in the price? Your own 10ml perfume bottle, access to rare Icelandic ingredients, scent education, and a signature 10ml sample from Ilmur & Sjór.

Where do I meet for the workshop? The meeting point is Hafnarhúsinu at Tryggvagata 17 in Reykjavik’s city center.

Is the workshop available in languages other than English? The activity is conducted in English, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

This perfume workshop offers more than just a fragrant souvenir; it’s a chance to engage your senses and create a tangible piece of Iceland’s wild beauty. Perfect for curious explorers and scent enthusiasts alike, it’s an activity that provides a fresh perspective on Iceland’s landscape—and a beautiful, personal keepsake to take home.

You can check if your dates are available here: