Reykjavik: Natural Icelandic Fragrance Creation Workshop

Imagine holding in your hands a small bottle of Iceland—its wild landscapes, volcanic soil, arctic herbs, and mossy highlands—all captured in a scent you’ve crafted yourself. That’s exactly what this Natural Icelandic Fragrance Creation Workshop offers. For $205 per person, you’ll spend a few hours in the heart of Reykjavik, learning the art of perfumery from a scent alchemist, Nicholas Brittain Shaber, and walking away with a personalized fragrance that echoes Iceland’s elemental spirit.

What we love about this experience? First, the chance to handle native Icelandic ingredients that you won’t find elsewhere—imagine wild herbs, volcanic minerals, and moss from the highlands—directly in your scent. Second, the hands-on nature of the workshop, where you’re not just listening to a guide but actively blending your own perfume, makes it a truly personal and memorable activity.

One thing to consider: this workshop is quite focused on learning the craft rather than sightseeing, so if you’re expecting a scenic walk or outdoor adventure, this might not be your ideal fit. However, if you’re curious about the local environment in a sensory way and want a one-of-a-kind souvenir, this experience hits the mark perfectly.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy creative, tactile experiences and want to take home an authentic piece of Iceland’s landscape. It’s also ideal for those interested in perfumery, natural scents, or unique Icelandic culture beyond the usual sightseeing.

Key Points

• Authentic Icelandic ingredients: Experience native botanicals, volcanic soil, and mosses firsthand.
• Hands-on creation: You craft your own perfume, gaining insight into the art of blending different notes.
• Expert guidance: Nicholas Brittain Shaber, a composer and scent alchemist, guides you through the process.
• Memorable souvenir: Take home a personalized 10ml perfume, capturing Iceland’s elemental soul.
• Flexible booking: Reserve now with the option to pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
• Ideal for creative travelers: This experience suits those who appreciate sensory activities and cultural authenticity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Icelandic Fragrance Workshop

Setting and Accessibility

The workshop begins at Hafnarhúsinu, Tryggvagata 17, right in the lively heart of Reykjavik. The location is convenient, within walking distance of many city highlights, making it a natural addition to your Reykjavik itinerary. The environment is cozy yet inspiring, with a focus on creativity and exploration. As you gather with fellow scent enthusiasts, you’ll notice the intimate size encourages personal attention from Nicholas, making this feel less like a tour and more like a private class.

The Philosophy Behind Icelandic Perfume

Founded in late 2023 by Nicholas, this workshop is all about capturing Iceland’s elemental essence. From the mossy highlands to volcanic rocks, the ingredients speak of the land’s volcanic activity, icy winds, and hardy flora. Nicholas, a composer and scent alchemist, emphasizes that Icelandic perfumery is rooted in balance and harmony, reflecting the country’s rugged yet beautiful landscape.

What Happens During the Workshop

You’ll start with a brief introduction to scent education, learning how top, heart, and base notes work together. Expect explanations about how Icelandic ingredients like arctic herbs, volcanic minerals, and smoky birch contribute to the complex profile of native fragrances.

Next, you’ll get access to a selection of rare Icelandic ingredients. This curated collection includes essential oils and raw components sourced from the landscape. You can smell and compare different botanicals, understanding how they influence your blend. As one reviewer described, “It was fascinating to see how a small amount of volcanic soil could add depth to the scent.”

The creative process itself involves blending small amounts of these ingredients into your own perfume. Nicholas offers guidance, encouraging experimentation and balance. We loved the way he explained the interaction of scent notes, making us appreciate how a hint of moss could evoke Iceland’s highlands or how smoky birch notes transport you to a crackling fire.

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Creating Your Personal Perfume

By the end of the session, you’ll have crafted a 10ml bottle of perfume that’s uniquely yours. Many find this to be a meaningful souvenir—more than just a bottle of fragrance, it’s a sensory memory of Iceland’s landscapes.

The workshop also includes a travel-sized signature collection perfume, so you can continue to enjoy your new scent at home. Participants frequently mention how personal and evocative their creations feel, with one describing it as “a true olfactory portrait of Iceland.”

Group Size and Duration

Most sessions are small, which means plenty of time for questions and personalized feedback. The entire experience lasts around 2 to 3 hours, making it a manageable activity even on a full day of sightseeing. The relaxed pace allows you to savor each step and truly understand the craft.

Cost and Value

At $205, this workshop might seem a bit of an investment, but consider what you’re taking home: not only a bespoke perfume but also a deep appreciation for Iceland’s native flora and landscape expressed through scent. Many reviewers mention how this activity added an authentic and memorable dimension to their Iceland trip.

Practical Tips

Bring a bottle of water and perhaps a snack to keep your energy up, especially if you’re sensitive to smells or want to take your time. The workshop is conducted in English, ensuring clear communication for international visitors. You don’t need any prior experience—just curiosity and a willingness to explore.

The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective

Multiple reviews highlight the stunning views and the unique opportunity to connect with Iceland’s environment in a novel way. One traveler said, “I loved the way the scents brought the landscape to life—every whiff was like a mini adventure.” Others appreciated the personalized attention from Nicholas, describing him as a knowledgeable and encouraging guide through the aromatic world of Iceland.

Why You Should Consider This Workshop

This activity isn’t just about making perfume; it’s about understanding Iceland’s landscape in a sensory way. If you’re someone who appreciates cultural experiences that go beyond sightseeing, this workshop offers a chance to connect with Iceland’s natural environment on a deeply personal level.

It’s also perfect if you’re a creative traveler or a scent enthusiast. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, the intimate nature of the workshop makes it a special, shared experience. Plus, the opportunity to bring home a custom fragrance that captures Iceland’s wild spirit makes it a valuable memento.

The Sum Up

The Reykjavik Natural Icelandic Fragrance Creation Workshop stands out as an authentic, creative activity that offers more than just a typical sightseeing tour. It provides a window into Iceland’s landscape and culture through the lens of scent, making for a memorable, immersive experience.

This workshop is especially suited for travelers who value handcrafted, personalized souvenirs and are curious about perfumery or natural ingredients. The intimate setting and expert guidance ensure you’ll learn a lot, and the chance to create your own fragrance makes it a truly unique addition to your Iceland trip.

While not a scenic tour or outdoor adventure, it offers a different kind of journey—one inward, aromatic, and deeply connected to the land. For those looking to go beyond the usual tourist trail and experience Iceland through all their senses, this perfume-making workshop is a compelling choice.

FAQs

Is this workshop suitable for children or teenagers?
While the experience is designed for adults and older teens, younger participants might find the scent blending activity engaging if they have an interest in fragrances or nature.

Do I need to bring anything?
Just bring water and perhaps a snack if you think you’ll need a boost during the session. Everything else, including ingredients and guidance, is provided.

Can I cancel or reschedule if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking is flexible—you can reserve now and pay later, which is convenient if your schedule isn’t set.

Is the workshop conducted in English?
Yes, the activity is offered in English, ensuring clear communication and explanations.

How long is the workshop?
Expect the session to last about 2 to 3 hours, enough time for learning, blending, and creating your fragrance without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
Your own 10ml bespoke perfume, access to native Icelandic ingredients, scent education, and a signature travel-sized perfume from Ilmur & Sjór’s collection are all included.

Where does the workshop take place?
It starts at Hafnarhúsinu, Tryggvagata 17, Reykjavik, a convenient location in the city center.

Is this experience worth the cost?
Given the personalized nature and the opportunity to craft a unique souvenir, many find the price justified. It’s a meaningful, memorable activity that adds a sensory dimension to your Iceland trip.

This scent workshop offers a rare chance to engage with Iceland’s landscape in a deeply personal way. If you’re eager to add a creative, aromatic chapter to your travels and take home something truly unique, this activity is worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: