Rebecca’s Journey: from traveler to guide to Gravel Travel Leader

If exploring Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes, hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path adventures is your dream, Gravel Travel is the perfect partner to make it a reality. Specializing in small-group tours that showcase Iceland’s raw beauty and unique culture, Gravel Travel offers unforgettable experiences for adventurous souls. From traversing dramatic volcanic landscapes and ancient lava fields to visiting remote highlands and stunning black-sand beaches, their tours are designed for those who crave immersive, authentic journeys.

Feel like an explorer in Iceland’s wilderness

Gravel Travel’s tours balance thrilling activities with plenty of opportunities to soak in Iceland’s awe-inspiring scenery. Imagine traveling through Iceland’s majestic highlands, delving into the Landmannalaugar region, or experiencing the rugged beauty of Þórsmörk (Thorsmork) Valley. Their carefully curated itineraries often feature lesser-known locations, so you’ll feel like a true explorer in Iceland’s wilderness.

Gravel Travel boasts an impressive 5-star rating on TripAdvisor. The reviewers appreciate the company’s attention to detail and ability to cater to small groups, ensuring a more intimate and flexible experience. Guests also highlight the guides’ expertise in geology, history, and Icelandic culture.

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Gravel Travel is one of my partners. That means my subscribers enjoy an exclusive 10% discount on Gravel Travel tours by signing up for the Stuck in Iceland newsletter. It’s free, and along with your discount code, you’ll receive expert travel tips, local insights, and exclusive deals to make your Iceland adventure even more affordable.

Rebecca Kent is the General Manager of Gravel Travel, and I wanted to hear more about her journey to Iceland and get her travel advice.

Hey Rebecca, can you tell me your story? Why did you come to Iceland and are now the general manager of Gravel Travel?

Hi Jón, Thank you for asking! Long story short, originally from the UK, I always wanted to visit Iceland after studying the Vestmann Island eruption at school. I got to work as a scuba instructor and guide for a summer. During this summer, I got to not only work at the iconic crystal clear fissure Silfra but also explore a lot of the country. After my summer contract came to an end, I still had so much more I wanted to explore, so I trained as a driver guide and got paid to explore the country! I studied for a master’s in Responsible Tourism Management in Iceland, which fueled my passion for sustainable tourism, and I now use that every day in my role as General Manager.

Becoming Icelandic

Iceland is now my home. I married an Icelander and have an Icelandic daughter. I miss guiding, but I needed something that fits around my family and found Gravel Travel, which I love. We are a small company. My role is very diverse and exciting, and my daily tasks include marketing, product development, managing customer experience, and operations.

What can those who join Gravel Travel on your tours expect?

Gravel Travel is a family-owned and operated company with three generations of Icelanders at the helm. When you join a Gravel Travel tour, you really feel like you are guided by family and friends who are passionate about sharing their country with you. You can expect comfortable vehicles, tours that take you off the beaten path, and really special encounters with nature.

What are your favorite Gravel Travel tours?

I love the highlands. It is my favorite part of the Icelandic summer to drive into the mountains and explore the dramatic colors, lava fields, river crossings, and breathtaking hiking paths. Therefore, the Thorsmork and Landmannalaugar tours are my favorite. You can only access these areas with 4 x 4 vehicles, so our modified vehicles and expert guides have your back to get you to the best places.

Can you share a memorable story or experience from past Gravel Travel tours?

I recently joined our South Coast and Katla Ice Cave tour and had a fantastic time. This tour is perfect for photography, and I got so many beautiful shots of the Ice Cave glittering in the sun and the Black Sand Beach at sunset. Iceland is beautiful, but when the sun shines, it takes your breath away.

What’s next for Gravel Travel? Are there any exciting new tours or projects in the pipeline?

We will shortly be launching multi-day tours to take you on the perfect adventure around Iceland. Gravel Travel is partnering with Katla Geopark to launch citizen science tours. We are really excited about this project as guests will learn in-depth about the Katla area and collect real data for the Geoparks scientists.

What are your favorite activities and places in Iceland?

I love hot springs. You will catch me in my local pool several times a week. My favorite private hot springs are Hvammsvik, as you have a stunning view of the whale fjord and can jump in and out of the sea. One of my favorite places to visit is my husband’s hometown of Djupivogur in the east. I love exploring the surrounding valleys and beaches

What advice can you give to those visiting Iceland for the first time?

My top tip would be to bring a bottle and fill it up. You don’t need to buy bottled water in Iceland as the tap water is better quality.