Tucked away in the heart of Europe lies one of its most breathtaking hidden gems—SLOVENIA. A land of dramatic alpine peaks, emerald lakes, turquoise rivers, and charming villages that feels almost too beautiful to be real.

On this unforgettable women's adventure, we'll paddleboard across pristine alpine lakes, trek through the majestic Julian Alps, spend a night in a mountain hut, raft and kayak down the turquoise Soča River, explore stunning waterfalls and picturesque towns, and e-bike in the wine country of Slovenia. It's the perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and moments to slow down and soak it all in.

Gina Woods @driftwoodsphotography is a freelance photographer, adventurer and sailor based on Vancouver Island, Canada, where she lives with her family of four. She is happiest setting off on an adventure with camera in hand. Whether sailing her boat along the west coast of Canada or exploring a new global destination, Gina is always in search of epic views, beautiful light and people to share the moment with.

For Gina, travel has always been about expansion. It expands our perspectives and deepens our sense of connection to the world around us. Most importantly, travel helps us grow into a version of ourselves that embraces change, possibility and inner growth.

Over the years, Gina’s passion for exploration has led her and her family to travel to more than 40 countries and spend extended time at sea aboard their sailboat. She has joined multiple YLA trips as a photographer, and now, as a soon-to-be empty nester, she’s excited to channel her energy into leading women on their own adventures. She looks forward to helping women say YES to adventure and new experiences, step outside their comfort zones, and experience the growth that comes along the way.

Touch down in Reykjavík, Iceland’s vibrant capital city and the starting point of our unforgettable adventure! After settling into our accommodations in central Reykjavik, you’ll have time to relax, explore the colorful streets, browse local shops, or grab a bite at one of the city’s cozy cafés.

We’ll kick things off with a welcome dinner at a cozy local restaurant—gathering around the table to toast new friendships, Slovenian flavors, and the unforgettable adventure that lies ahead.

*Please plan to arrive at Reykjavik Airport (KEF) no later than 3PM local time on July 9th.

Start the day with a relaxing soak in the famous Blue Lagoon, surrounded by steaming, mineral-rich geothermal waters and dramatic volcanic landscapes. Afterward, we'll explore Reykjavík, Iceland's colorful capital, including a stroll down the iconic Rainbow Street and a visit to the impressive Hallgrímskirkja Church. In the afternoon, we'll leave the city behind and head into the beautiful countryside of southern Iceland, where we'll spend the next two nights at a lovely guesthouse.

Get ready for one of Iceland's most spectacular hiking experiences! Today, we'll venture into the remote Highlands to explore Landmannalaugar, famous for its colorful rhyolite mountains, steaming geothermal vents, and otherworldly volcanic landscapes. Led by experienced local guides, we'll hike approximately 5–6 miles (8–10 km) through rugged terrain, taking in incredible views of the vibrant mountains, lava fields, and geothermal valleys. Expect a moderately challenging hike with some elevation gain.

After our hike, we'll have the chance to soak in Landmannalaugar's natural geothermal hot springs, surrounded by the incredible beauty of the Icelandic Highlands. The perfect way to relax after an adventurous day! This is sure to be one of the most unforgettable experiences of our trip!

Today is all about experiencing the magic of Iceland's South Coast! We'll begin at Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind a towering waterfall, followed by a visit to the hidden Gljúfrabúi waterfall, tucked inside a moss-covered canyon. Next, we'll explore the powerful Skógafoss and the enchanting Kvernufoss, another hidden waterfall surrounded by dramatic green cliffs.

In the afternoon, we'll head to Vík for a memorable horseback ride (optional add-on) along a stunning black sand beach on Icelandic horses. We'll also take time for a peaceful mindfulness practice surrounded by the beauty of the coastline.

And for those who want to experience a little extra magic, we'll have the option to return to Skógafoss late in the evening, just minutes from our accommodations, to experience this magnificent waterfall in the soft, golden light of Iceland's midnight sun!

We'll start the morning exploring the dramatic coastline around Vík, including the famous Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, with its towering basalt columns and striking sea stacks. We'll also visit Dyrhólaey, where we'll hopefully spot adorable puffins nesting along the cliffs, and take in the picturesque views of Vík's iconic hillside church.

After some time for reflection by the ocean, we'll continue east to Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, one of Iceland's most breathtaking natural wonders. Here, we'll enjoy an easy-to-moderate 2-mile (3 km) hike along the canyon rim, with incredible viewpoints overlooking the winding river and dramatic moss-covered cliffs below.

Afterward, we'll continue our scenic drive east, passing through some of Iceland's most spectacular landscapes, before arriving at our cozy guesthouse near Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where we'll settle in for the next two nights. This beautiful area will be our home base for exploring Iceland's incredible glaciers and ice-filled lagoons!

Today is packed with once-in-a-lifetime adventures! We'll begin with a guided glacier hike and ice climb excursion in Skaftafell, where we'll strap on crampons and explore the incredible ice formations, crevasses, and rugged blue-white landscapes of one of Iceland's magnificent outlet glaciers. No previous glacier hiking experience is necessary, and our experienced guides will provide all the essential safety equipment and instruction.

Afterward, we'll visit the famous Diamond Beach, where chunks of glacial ice wash ashore against the black volcanic sand. Then we'll head to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon for an unforgettable kayaking experience, paddling among floating icebergs with breathtaking views of the surrounding glaciers. If we're lucky, we may even spot seals swimming nearby!

We'll wrap up our Iceland adventures with one of the most spectacular hikes of the entire trip! Múlagljúfur Canyon is a hidden gem featuring towering moss-covered cliffs, dramatic waterfalls, and breathtaking panoramic views. This moderately challenging 4–5 mile (6–8 km) hike includes approximately 1,200–1,500 feet (365–460 m) of elevation gain, with some steep, rocky, and uneven sections.

The reward is an incredible viewpoint overlooking one of Iceland's most beautiful canyons. After our hike, we'll make our way back to Reykjavík (approx 4 hour drive), where those who wish can enjoy an optional evening visit to the beautiful Sky Lagoon, soaking in warm geothermal waters overlooking the North Atlantic Ocean. We'll also take time to celebrate our final evening together, reflecting on the incredible adventures we've shared, the friendships we've made, and the memories we'll carry home with us!

After an unforgettable week of exploring Iceland's breathtaking landscapes, chasing waterfalls, hiking through incredible canyons, and sharing once-in-a-lifetime adventures, it's time to say goodbye! We'll head to Keflavík International Airport for our flights home, taking with us so much more than photos and memories. We'll leave with new friendships, meaningful connections, and a renewed sense of adventure. Until next time, Iceland!