Reykjavik: Natural Icelandic Fragrance Creation Workshop

If you’re visiting Reykjavik and looking for a unique, sensory experience that captures the spirit of Iceland, this Natural Icelandic Fragrance Creation Workshop from Ilmur & Sjór might just be the sort of thing that sticks with you long after your trip ends. It’s not a typical sightseeing tour—it’s a chance to step into the world of Icelandic perfumery, blending native ingredients to craft your own perfume.

What we love about this experience is how it marries the natural beauty of Iceland with a creative, personal activity. First, the opportunity to work with rare Icelandic ingredients like volcanic soil, arctic herbs, and moss from the highlands makes it feel both authentic and special. Second, the hands-on nature of blending your own perfume gives you a tangible souvenir that truly embodies the island’s wild landscape.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is that this workshop runs for about 3 hours, which might feel a bit long if you’re pressed for time or prefer quick, high-energy activities. It’s a relaxed, educational experience best suited for those curious about scents and natural ingredients. If you’re a traveler who appreciates sensory experiences or wants a personal gift or keepsake, this could be right up your alley.

This experience is perfect for adventurers who enjoy learning new skills and want a meaningful, creative way to remember Iceland. It’s especially well-suited for adults, those interested in natural or artisanal products, and anyone looking for a break from traditional tours.

Key Points

• Authentic Icelandic ingredients like volcanic soil and Arctic herbs are used in crafting your perfume.
• The workshop offers hands-on guidance from a scent alchemist, making it accessible for beginners.
• You get to create a personalized perfume in a 10ml bottle, plus a signature Icelandic scent to take home.
• The experience is 3 hours long, providing ample time to learn and experiment.
• It’s a small group setting, ideal for personal attention and interaction.
• The cost of $207 reflects the quality of ingredients and craftsmanship, offering good value for a lasting souvenir.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Workshop

Walking into the Hafnarhúsinu in Reykjavik, you’ll find a space that feels both creative and welcoming. The workshop is run by Ilmur & Sjór, a brand founded in winter 2023 by composer and scent alchemist Nicholas Brittain Shaber, who guides you through every step. From the start, you’ll get a sense that this isn’t just about making perfume; it’s about capturing Iceland’s elemental soul through scent.

Introduction to Icelandic Perfume

The session begins with a brief talk about Icelandic perfumery, highlighting how the landscape influences the fragrances. Expect to learn about top, heart, and base notes—the fundamental building blocks of perfume—and how they interact. We loved the way this part demystified perfume creation, turning it into an accessible, fun puzzle rather than a mysterious art.

Exploring the Ingredients

Next, you’ll be introduced to a curated selection of rare Icelandic ingredients. This includes wild botanicals, volcanic soils, moss from the highlands, and smoky birch. The guide explains the origins and unique characteristics of each, giving you a sense of place and nature in every scent. Many reviews mention how stunning the views and aromas are—the mixture of earthy, herbal, and mineral notes truly evokes Iceland’s landscape.

Blending Your Perfume

The core of the experience is the hands-on blending. With guidance, you’ll experiment with different combinations to create a fragrance that’s personal and evocative. The instructor emphasizes balance and harmony, encouraging you to trust your nose. Many guests have shared that they appreciated the patience and expertise of the guide, which makes the process approachable even if you’re new to perfume-making.

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Crafting Your Bottle

Once you’ve settled on your perfect blend, you’ll fill a 10ml bottle with your creation. It’s a satisfying finale to a creative journey. You also receive a small sample from Ilmur & Sjór’s signature collection, allowing you to compare your scent to their curated Icelandic fragrances. Several reviews note the quality of the final product—a true personal keepsake that captures Iceland’s raw beauty.

The Experience and Its Highlights

Beyond the actual perfume-making, the workshop offers a few notable touches that make it worthwhile. The scenic setting at Hafnarhúsinu adds to the atmosphere, with views of the harbor and Reykjavik’s artistic vibe. The small group size means you get plenty of personal attention and can ask questions freely—something many visitors value.

The educational component is well-structured, with clear explanations and tips. The instructor is described as friendly and knowledgeable, making the process less intimidating and more like a shared creative endeavor. Many reviews express surprise at how much they learned about scent layering and Icelandic ingredients’ origins.

Value and Price

At $207 per person, this isn’t the cheapest activity in Reykjavik, but compared to other artisanal experiences, it offers solid value. You leave with a custom perfume and a deeper understanding of Iceland’s natural aromas, which is a memorable and tangible souvenir of your trip. If you’re into artisanal crafts, natural products, or simply want a personalized experience, this price is justifiable.

Accessibility and Practicalities

The workshop is wheelchair accessible and conducted in English, making it accessible for most visitors. You’re encouraged to bring water and a snack if needed, as the process is relaxing but can be a touch lengthy. The flexible cancellation policy—up to 24 hours in advance—adds peace of mind if your plans change.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you enjoy creative activities and want to connect with Iceland’s landscape in a personal way. It suits adults more than children, unless they’re particularly interested in scents and natural ingredients. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers looking for something memorable and different from usual sightseeing.

If you’re someone who appreciates small, intimate classes and values quality over quantity, you’ll find this workshop rewarding. It’s also a fantastic gift idea—creating a custom perfume is both thoughtful and unique.

Final Thoughts

This Reykjavik Natural Icelandic Fragrance Creation Workshop offers a genuine peek into Iceland’s elemental essence via scent. It’s not just about making perfume; it’s about capturing a moment in time, a landscape, a feeling—and turning it into a wearable keepsake. From the stunning views and native ingredients to the personalized craftsmanship, it delivers an experience that’s both educational and deeply personal.

While the price might seem high for some, the quality of ingredients and the chance to craft your own fragrance justify the cost. It’s a chance to slow down, observe, smell, and create—a different kind of Icelandic adventure that appeals to your senses and your creativity.

If you’re looking for a meaningful activity that leaves you with a tangible memory of Iceland, this workshop is well worth considering. It’s especially suited for those who value craftsmanship, natural beauty, and a bit of aromatic magic.

FAQs

Do I need any experience to participate?
No, this workshop is designed to be accessible for beginners. The instructor provides guidance throughout, making it easy to learn and enjoy the process.

What should I bring?
Just bring some water and maybe a snack if you’re hungry—everything else, including materials and ingredients, is provided.

How long does the workshop last?
It runs for about 3 hours, giving enough time to explore different blends and enjoy the process at a relaxed pace.

Is it suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the workshop is wheelchair accessible, but it’s always good to confirm with the provider if you have specific needs.

What do I get at the end?
You leave with your own 10ml bottle of personalized perfume and a small signature scent sample from Ilmur & Sjór.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility for your trip planning.

This experience is a wonderful way to bond with Iceland’s landscape on a personal level, through scent. If exploring your senses sounds appealing, it’s likely to be a highlight of your Reykjavik trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: