Eleven Deplar Farm Heli-Ski Pre-Arrival Guide 2024

Let’s Get Planning.

Your Eleven Experience Team is here to help you design the perfect adventure. This guide outlines what to expect during your stay and how to prepare for your upcoming trip. We look forward to meeting you at Deplar Farm, but until then, let’s start making some plans.

Heli-Skiing

Learn what to expect on your Icelandic heli-ski adventure.

FAQs

What is the terrain like and how are the snow conditions?

Iceland features over 200,000 acres of diverse ski terrain with wide open bowls, steep couloirs, and descents highlighting panoramic views that stretch to the Arctic Ocean. Our maritime snowpack means you’ll find very stable snow conditions from smooth, buttery slopes and corn snow to fresh powder.

How much flight time and how many runs can we expect?

An hour and a half of included flight time typically offers a full day of skiing, with runs averaging 2,000-3,000 feet of vertical descent. Mother Nature is boss, so weather conditions may sometimes limit flying. If that occurs, we offer plenty of indoor and outdoor activities so your time is always well spent. Our experienced guides provide a safe and exceptional skiing experience so you can shred happy.

Do you need to be an expert skier to heli-ski at Deplar Farm?

While there’s no shortage of challenging slopes for expert skiers, the terrain in Iceland is a perfect heli-skiing introduction for the intermediate skier, too.

What gear does Eleven provide, and what should you bring?

We provide complimentary access to the best equipment in the industry, including DPS, Wagner, and Blackcrow skis and Jones and Weston snowboards. Plus, we have all the necessary avalanche equipment, including Mammut and Scott airbags. We also equip you with all the gear for your other adventures (with the exception of hiking/waterproof boots). Please note: ski and snowboard boots and helmets are not included or available for rent, so make sure you add those to your packing list.

Other Activities

Sometimes weather gives us a hard pass and we aren’t able to fly. But, as part of our “No Down Days” philosophy, we offer a range of exciting activities to keep the stoke high.

SNOWMOBILING

Picture yourself snowmobiling across the Troll Peninsula. With the Arctic sun serving up endless daylight in spring, get ready for an unmatched adventure with long rides through remote peaks.

SNOWSHOEING

Embark on a serene snowshoeing journey around Deplar Farm, the perfect way to slow down and take in its otherworldly landscape. Traverse over fresh snow with your expert guide, treating yourself to quiet, peaceful beauty with every step.

SNOW SLEDDING

Get back to the days of old fashioned winter fun with our selection of sleds. Zoom down our hills on tubes and steerable Stiga Sleds, with snowmobile shuttles, and just try not to smile.

CROSS COUNTRY SKIING

Dating back nearly 4,000 years as the go-to method for winter travel, the term “ski” comes from the Old Norse “skíð,” meaning “stick of wood.” Embrace this ancient tradition on skinny skis and glide from Deplar Farm through the picturesque valleys of the Troll Peninsula.

FAT BIKING

Traverse Iceland’s frozen landscapes on fat tire bikes, designed to effortlessly float over snowy terrain. This unique biking experience offers a fun and challenging workout, perfect for winter adventure seekers.

SURFING

There’s no such thing as “too cold” around here. With our super thick wetsuits, comfortably ride Iceland’s best right-handers and occasional left breaks. Keep an eye out for local pro Heiðar Logi, master of these North Atlantic waters. If you’re lucky, he’ll offer some pointers.

SEA KAYAKING

Discover Iceland from a unique perspective: the sea. Kayak the stunning Haganesvík area, where dramatic peaks meet the Arctic Ocean. This adventure captures the essence of Iceland’s beauty. You’ll notice tiny details only an intimate paddle can provide.

HIKING

Explore the Troll Peninsula by foot with year-round hiking for all fitness levels. From leisurely walks in Svarfaðardalur Nature Reserve to challenging ascents, there’s a trail for everyone, including serene paths right from Deplar Farm.

HAGANESVÍK GYMNASIUM

Our Haganesvík beach property features a modern gymnasium offering a variety of activities. Get your pickleball, badminton, and basketball game on or test your climbing skills on our varied-pitch climbing wall with crash pads for protection.

HORSEBACK RIDING

Iceland’s shaggy and hardy horses are iconic descendants of 9th Century Viking imports. Saddle up on one of these gentle purebreds and walk, trot, canter, and tölt across Iceland’s rugged landscapes.

WHALE WATCHING

The largest wildlife in Iceland reside in the sea. All winter long, witness their impressive size and playful behavior on a commercial group whale watching tour in Eyjafjörður. From a traditional oak boat, spot dolphins, humpbacks, blues, and orcas swim, spout, and breach.

Want a personalized whale watching experience? With an additional charge, opt for a private whale watching tour.

WHITEWATER RAFTING

Iceland is an outdoor lover’s playground, and no trip is complete without experiencing the East Glacial River, the island’s premier destination for whitewater rafting. This high-adrenaline adventure is suited for participants aged 18 and above.

For families or groups desiring a more tranquil experience, our West Glacial River rafting offers scenic waterfalls with gentle waves for an enjoyable adventure for all. This float is available starting in May.

Wellness

Take relaxation to the next level by adding our renowned wellness treatments to your trip.

ELEVEN LIFE ICELANDIC SIGNATURE MASSAGE

Long, fluid strokes and Tata Harper Decompress massage oil are the basis of this full-body massage. This specialized, focused massage is tailored to your particular needs and preferences. The personalized session will have you feeling relaxed and free of aches and pains.

60 minutes | 90 minutes

FIRE AND ICE MASSAGE

Smooth, warm North Atlantic ocean stones and a cool, delicately-scented lotion bar join with the therapist’s strokes to melt away tension, ease muscle stiffness, and leave the skin soft, supple, and glowing. Enjoy the benefits of contrasting hot and cold therapy to boost the immune system and flush toxins.

60 minutes | 90 minutes

FOOT REJUVENATION THERAPY

Using an Icelandic Angan arctic-thyme soak, Icelandic moss salt scrub, and reflexology-based massage techniques, this treatment stimulates the lymphatic system, improves circulation, and exfoliates the skin, leaving your feet and lower legs energized, silky, and firm.

30 minutes | 60 minutes

JUNIOR MASSAGE

For children aged 11 and under, this treatment offers a gentle to moderate pressure massage for a deeply soothing experience. A parent or guardian is required to attend the session.

30 minutes

SIGNATURE MASSAGE & FACIAL

Enjoy the benefits of our Signature 60-minute full-body massage combined with a 30-minute Tata Harper facial. Your muscles will be left balanced and rejuvenated, while your skin will feel nourished from head to toe.

90 minutes

TATA HARPER WINTER RESCUE FACIAL

Enjoy the subtle yet deeply restorative benefits of this calming restorative treatment. Facial cupping tones the skin while a moisturizing mask leaves your skin plumped and nourished.

60 minutes

TATA HARPER WINTER RÉMODELAGE FACIAL

This intensive facial treatment activates collagen production in skin of all ages. Multiple sculpting massage techniques promote lifting and firming of the skin, while a range of Tata Harper products are used to exfoliate, hydrate, and brighten the face.

90 minutes

TATA HARPER GENTLEMAN’S FACIAL

This treatment targets concerns specific to men’s skin. A regimen focused on reducing congestion and shaving irritation leaves skin refined and nourished.

60 minutes

VIKING SAUNA RITUAL

The Viking Sauna Ritual is an unforgettable experience combining breathing techniques, mindfulness, and immune-boosting contrast therapy by alternating intense heat with icecold water plunges. This guided ritual invites you to tap into your power both physically and mentally while getting out of your comfort zone. Join us for this uniquely Nordic tradition, and enjoy the health benefits while exploring local Icelandic traditions.

60 minutes for 1-4 guests 90 minutes for 5-8 guests

ELEVEN LIFE SOUND BATH

Immerse your body and mind in ethereal sound therapy and experience the healing benefits of crystal bowls, Tibetan singing bowls, gongs, and koshi chimes. This vibrational sequence is paired with guided mindful relaxation, inviting you into a deep sensorial and meditative space to further absorb and enhance your experience at Deplar Farm.

30 minutes | 60 minutes

CUSTOMIZED YOGA SESSION

Choose from a private group class or individual session completely customized to your desires and needs. There are endless ways to practice yoga at Deplar Farm; we invite you to explore what suits you and your body.

60 minutes

I-SOPOD

The I-SOPOD floatation tank combines weightlessness, lack of external stimuli, and absorption of vital trace minerals to provide a range of physical and mental health benefits.

60 minutes

THERAGUN RESERVATION

Book your session with our Theragun device to enhance your performance and speed up your recovery. Experience relief from various ailments, aches, and pains, improve your mobility, and boost both your physical and mental performance.

Subject to availability

Integrated Ski Wellness Program

Enhance your skiing experience with our Ski Wellness Program, tailored to maximize performance, accelerate recovery, and prevent injuries. Prepare for your trip with our comprehensive pre-season training plan. This plan includes detailed guidance on breathwork, stretching, and strength training, complete with photos of various exercises.

POST-TRAVEL YOGA

This expert-led yoga session incorporates Theragun pressure, stretching, breathwork, and nutrition to release built-up tension, restore blood circulation, and improve range of motion after a long travel day.

60 minutes

RECOVERY MASSAGE

Blending the expertise of our therapists with an emphasis on ski-specific recovery, these deep tissue Swedish massages involve the most cutting-edge therapeutic approaches, like lymphatic drainage and Theragun integration.

60 minutes

PRE-TRAVEL YOGA

This class is designed to revitalize the body and calm the nervous system for a heightened sense of ease and energy before travel. Stretch out tense areas, shake out lactic acid buildup, and loosen overused muscle groups with Theragun incorporation.

60 minutes

MORNING SKI STRETCH

This daily stretch session is geared toward peak performance and injury prevention by waking up the quads and calves with gentle pre-ski drills and lengthening the ligaments and tendons with special attention to the ACLs and hamstrings.

30 minutes

Food & Drink

Enjoy an all-inclusive experience that focuses on locally sourced ingredients and traditional Icelandic cuisine.

FOOD INCLUSIONS

Breakfast, lunch, après, and dinner are included—and we’re happy to cater to dietary preferences and restrictions as noted on your guest information form.

Meals are thoughtfully prepared with seasonal ingredients and served at our long Nordic dining table, a proud emblem of our cultural heritage. This tradition, inspired by the old great halls, brings people together to share stories and connect, just like travelers, traders, and warriors of the past.

DRINK INCLUSIONS

We offer an extensive selection of beer, cocktails, spirits, liqueurs, and wine to enhance your stay. House alcohol is included, and we offer a reserve list available for purchase. Each evening, our team thoughtfully pulls wines from our wine cellar to pair with your dinner for a complete gastronomic experience. To add to your culinary journey, you can also book personalized tastings of wine, whiskey, or gin, perfect for unwinding after a day full of adventure.

Preparing for Your Trip

To help you get ready, we’ve gathered some essential information you need to know before you go.

Packing List

DON’T FORGET TO PACK:

Passport

Prescriptions and medication

Phone charger

Camera and charger

Batteries/chargers for devices

Personal toiletries

CLOTHES YOU’LL BE GLAD YOU PACKED:

Comfy clothes for relaxing around the lodge

Casual clothes for dinner and meals

Warm, extra layers for non-ski activities

Bathing suit

Heavy wool socks

Comfortable shoes for inside the lodge

Winter boots and hiking/ waterproof boots

Polarized sunglasses

ADVENTURE GEAR:

Heli-Skiing

Ski or snowboard boots

Helmet

Ski goggles (high- and low-light lenses)

Ski gloves or mittens

Ski jacket and pants that are wind and waterproof

Warm, performance layers for top and bottom: Capilene, wool, fleece

Ski hat

Ski socks

Neck warmer

Getting Here

A VALID PASSPORT IS REQUIRED FOR TRAVEL TO AND FROM ICELAND.

Visitors to Iceland have varying entry requirements based on their nationality, duration of stay, and accompanying items. Everyone must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond their stay, a ticket for return or onward travel, and proof of sufficient funds. For detailed information, please visit the official website: Travel Document Requirements

International flights typically arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), situated 45 minutes from downtown Reykjavik. This airport is serviced by major airlines including American Airlines, Delta, United, and Icelandair. From KEF, you’ll need to transfer to Reykjavik Domestic Airport (RKV) for a 45-minute flight to Akureyri. For your convenience, we can arrange a private ground transport for this transfer at an additional cost.

Once you arrive in Akureyri, you’ll be greeted by an Eleven team member who will drive you to Deplar Farm (~2 hours). We offer one daily shuttle service from Akureyri, timed to align with our check-in and check-out schedules. If you’d like a private transfer or transportation outside these times, we’re more than happy to organize this for an additional fee.

Private airports are located in both KEF and Reykjavik Domestic Airport. Private flights can also land directly in Akureyri. Heli transfers from Akureyri and KEF are also available for an additional fee. Please connect with your Experience Team if you’re interested in booking a heli transfer to Deplar Farm.

By Plane: By Car:

We do not recommend driving yourself to Deplar Farm between November and May due to snow and possible inclement weather.

Departure Day Travel:

To ensure a smooth departure and avoid the risk of missed flights due to unpredictable weather, we recommend planning an extra day for travel, ideally flying out the afternoon following checkout day.

Good to Know

CHECK-IN/CHECK OUT:

• Check-in time at Deplar Farm is 3:00pm and check out time is at 10:00am.

• Please note: access to your room outside these hours is not guaranteed. Please speak with your Experience Team if you are interested in an early check-in or late check-out.

GRATUITIES:

• While gratuities are not expected at our properties, guests wishing to leave a tip for the Deplar Farm Team may consider 10% to 15% of their total stay cost. This amount will be distributed among all staff who have contributed to your stay.

CURRENCY EXCHANGE:

LOCAL TIME ZONE:

• Iceland operates on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

CELLULAR SERVICES:

• Check with your cell phone provider to find out about roaming charges that will apply as well as the option of adding an international data plan. Other options include renting a Wifi hotspot or purchasing an Icelandic SIM card. Wifi will be available at most restaurants and hotels, so communication via Wifi is most efficient.

• The WiFi signal and cell service is strong on the property at Deplar Farm.

• The local currency is the Icelandic Króna (ISK). We advise exchanging Euros, USD, or other currencies before traveling to Iceland. ATMs, or Hraðbanki, are readily available in cities and towns. Banks will advance cash against main debit and credit cards.

CASH AND CREDIT CARDS:

• We recommend carrying Icelandic Króna (ISK) for expenses like taxis and tips, especially if you plan to explore the country beyond Deplar Farm. Most places accept credit and debit cards. Inform your credit card companies about your international travel. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, even for smaller transactions.

• Note that Deplar Farm operates on a cashless basis.

TRAVEL INSURANCE:

• We highly recommend the purchase of trip cancellation insurance. The Eleven Team can help you arrange trip cancellation insurance prior to your trip. Please let us know if you would like us to connect you with our preferred insurance partner, Global Rescue, to provide you with a quote once your trip has been confirmed.

ELECTRICAL CURRENT:

• Iceland uses type F power sockets, with a standard voltage of 230 V and frequency of 50 Hz. Travelers from the United States will need a power plug adapter and voltage converter. Deplar Farm offers converters for an additional cost, subject to availability at the concierge.

LOCAL LANGUAGE:

• Icelandic is the official language of Iceland. English is commonly spoken throughout the country, and by all of our hospitality team and guides.