Reykjavik City Guide 2016-2017 by MD Reykjavik

TOURS AND ACTIVITIES

WINING & DINING

THINGS TO DO

SIGHTS

EVENTS

THE OFFICIAL GUIDE TO REYKJAVÍK

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MUSEUMS & GALLERIES

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EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT REYKJAVÍK

GLACIER WALKS AND OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

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ADVENT EP OUTDOOR ES GLACIER WALKS URES HIGHLAN ADVENTS,UR D & GLA HIKING CIER SÓLHEIMAJÖKULL & SKAFTAFELL TOURS

2016 DAY TOURS 2016 GLACIER WALK REYKJAVÍK FROM & CAVING

FROM REYK JAVÍK

2016

AN EXPE MOMENT RIENCE

QUALITY

PROFESSIONALISM

info@mountaingui

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ice lan info@icelandr dro ver .is mountainguides.is s.i s overs.is nguides · Tel: +354 587 9999 mountaides.is info@mountainguides.is 587 9999 · Tel: +354 587 9999 · Tel: +354

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Ministry for the Environment and Natural Resources

2006 For designing and developing Glacier Walks.

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ICELANDAIR PIONEER AWARD

MOUNTAINGUIDES.IS info@mountainguides.is · Tel: +354 587 9999

Take a Walk on the Ice Side

Walk through Ice and Fire

Price: 23.900 ISK.

Price: 31.900 ISK.

Daily departures all year at 8.30

Departures, summer: Daily at 8.30 Winter: Mon, Thu, Sat and Sun at 8.30

Pick up: 08:30 from hotel or guesthouse in Reykjavik. Glacier walk and south shore waterfalls combo tour.

Hot Springs and Lava Cave

Pick up: 08:30 from hotel or guesthouse in Reykjavik. Hot spring hike, glacier walk and south shore waterfalls combo tour.

Price: 25.900 ISK.

South Shore, Glacier Walk & Ice Climbing | Price: 25.900 ISK.

Departures, summer: Mon, Wed, Fri and Sun at 11.30

Departures, summer: Tue, Thu and Sat at 08.30

Pick up: 11:30 from hotel or guesthouse in Reykjavik.

Pick up: 08:30 from hotel or guesthouse in Reykjavik. A fun and Adventurous day with glacier walk and thrill of ice climbing in a accessible way.

Hot spring hike and lava cave adventure.

MAKE SURE ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MOUNTAIN GUIDES

SpĂśr ehf.

*Prices are valid to September 30th 2016

SCAN TO BOOK NOW

Make it’s Eld sure ing!

Call us on +354 519 5000 or visit www.elding.is

SEA ANGLING

PUFFIN WATCHING

EXPRESS WHALE & PUFFIN

VIÐEY ISLAND

WHALE WATCHING From Reykjavík Check out our Akureyri whale watching tours on elding.is. Take part in an adventure at sea with an unforg able trip into the world of whales and sea birds all year round.

Elding Whale Watching schedule – all year round EL-01 / EL-02 / EL-03

Jan-Mar Apr 9:00** 9:00 13:00

May 9:00

Jun 9:00 10:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 14:00 17:00 17:00 20:30*

Jul 9:00 10:00 13:00 14:00 17:00 20:30

Aug Sept Oct Nov-Dec 9:00 9:00 9:00 9:00** 10:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 14:00 17:00 17:00 19:00

* From 15 June **Feb, March, November

Environmental Award Icelandic Tourist Board

www.elding.is

Elding Sea Angling EL-04 – 1 May to 31 August at 11:00 and 15:30 Elding Puffin Watching EL-05 – 15 May to 15 August at 9:30, 12:00 and 15:00 Express Whale and Puffin tour (RIB-boat) EL-06

– 15 April - 31 May at 10:00 and 14:00 – 1 June - 30 June at 10:00, 12:00, 14:00 and 16:00 – 1. July - 31. August at 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00 14:00 15:00 and 16:00. – 1-30 September, two times a day at 10:00 and 14:00.

Check out the Volcano Exhibition & Documentary at the Volcano House! Reviews from tripadvisor “Fascinating geological history of the island.” - David P Mendoza, Argentina, June 2016

“Staff was great, movie was engaging, and the entire experience informed the rest of our trip. ” - Louie R, May 2016

VOLCANO HOUSE

“Intriguing Stuff on Volcanoes, Great for Quick, Rainy Day Visit” - UrbanXplorer, Ontario, April 2016

“As a geologist I found the exhibition on Iceland’s history fascinating.” - Rory H, May 2016

Volcano Documentary and Geological Exhibition in Downtown Reykjavik, next to the Old Harbour. Open Every Day from 10:00-21:00 / Show time every hour, on the hour.

Tryggvagata 11, 101 Reykjavík | (+354) 555 1900 | www.volcanohouse.is

LIST OF CONTENT WELCOME TO REYKJAVÍK

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MUSEUMS & GALLERIES

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WINING & DINING

50-61

DAY TOURS, ACTIVITIES AND ADVENTURES 62-83 THINGS TO DO IN AND AROUND REYKJAVÍK 84-129 EVENT CALENDAR

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GOOD TO KNOW

142-145

NEIGHBORING TOWNS

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MD Reykjavík ehf. Laugavegur 3, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 3600 reykjavik@reykjavikcityguide.is / www.reykjavikcityguide.is

PUBLISHED BY: MD Reykjavík ehf.

Authors have taken all reasonable care in preparing this handbook, information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but make no guarantee about the accuracy or completeness of its content.

EDITOR: Gréta Sigríður Einarsdóttir, greta@whatson.is

PHOTOGRAPHS BY: Stefán Birgir Stefáns, Ari Magg, Lýður Guðmundsson, Vilhelm Gunnarsson, Ragnar Th. Sigurðsson, the Creative Commons community at Flickr & many more.

Printed and distributed in 100,000 copies.

MAPS: © E. Backman

LAYOUT & DESIGN: Stefán Birgir Stefáns, sbs@sbs.is.

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PRINTING: Oddi, Ecolabelled Printing Company.

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B EL

Material and contents property of publisher. All rights reserved. No part of this work covered by the copyright may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means—without the written permission of the authors and the publisher.

MANAGING EDITOR: Hjörtur Atli Guðmunds. Geirdal, hjortur@whatson.is.

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PRINTED MATTER

AIRICELAND.IS

CHOOSE BETWEEN VARIED DAY TOURS Save time and fly. Round trips included in Day Tour prices. Air Iceland is your West Nordic airline, offering scheduled domestic flights and flights from Iceland to the Faroe Islands and Greenland. A variety of Day Tour packages in Iceland and to Greenland, including flight, bus transfer and guidance. A FEW EXAMPLES

Day Tour

WESTFJORD SEAFOOD & CULTURE DAY

LAKE MÝVATN Mývatn ÍSLENSKA/SIA.IS/FLU 79781 05/16

Ísafjörður

Day Tour

REMARKABLE GREENLAND

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE NORTH

Greenland – Kulusuk

Mývatn/Húsavík

CONTACT AIR ICELAND OR TRAVEL AGENT FOR RESERVATION For more Day Tours, look at our website www.airceland.is websales@airiceland.is tel. +354 570 3030

WELCOME TO REYKJAVÍK Reykjavík may be one of the smallest capital cities in Europe, but it still packs a powerful cultural punch. Visitors can enjoy a multitude of events and festivals all year round! With a fascinating history rooted in the Icelandic Sagas and a unique location in a land of diverse landscapes, Reykjavík manages to combine the hip and the wholesome, without the stress that usually follows a cosmopolitan metropolis. Whether illuminated by the unending daylight in the summertime or the spectacular Aurora Borealis at winter, Reykjavík is a great alternative travel destination for all seasons, offering a myriad of adventures and a paradise of possibilities for all who visit! Reykjavík buzzes with creative energy and passion, and the culture is a melting pot of influences, both primal and

sophisticated. Whether it’s the city’s unique spirit that enchants you, the crystal-clear drinking water or the city’s proximity to a host of extraordinary natural phenomena, volcanoes, waterfalls and glaciers, one thing’s for sure, once you’ve been introduced, it’s hard to say goodbye. While Reykjavík’s small population ensures that it maintains its small-town charm, it’s still a modern European capital too, with all the governmental institutions you’d expect in a metropolitan city, with the added bonus of having a unique spa and pool culture. Here, you’ll discover a thriving culinary scene with many outstanding restaurants, and a diverse cultural life, with a variety of interesting museums, theatres, galleries, and sports facilities. However long you stay, for a weekend or forever, we hope you’ll discover the unique energy of Reykjavík and share your adventures with your family and friends!

IN FACTS AND FIGURES

In 2010, a comedian, known amongst other things for a radio show where he regularly prank-called the White House, ran for mayor of Reykjavík. He promised to practice corruption openly, fight for a drug-free parliament and called his party the Best Party. He won by a landslide.

WELCOME TO REYKJAVIK

REYKJAVÍK

Reykjavík’s location, just south of the Arctic Circle mean that on the darkest day of the year, the winter solstice, Reykjavík only gets 4 hours of sunlight. In the summer, however, it never really gets dark, thanks to the midnight sun.

Reykjavík was the first permanent settlement of Iceland, the homestead of Ingólfur Arnarson. This earned him the honour of a statue atop Arnarhóll hill in the centre of Reykjavík

Two thirds of the nation live in Reykjavík or the surrounding area.

Reykjavík is the world‘s northernmost capital of an independent nation.

Laugavegur, the city centre’s main shopping street, started out as a muddy trail for washerwomen carrying heavy loads of laundry to the hot springs in Laugardalur. In the beginning of the 20th century, only 6000 people lived in Reykjavík. The 2014 census counts around 120.000, an increase of 2000%.

A SHORT HISTORY OF REYKJAVÍK According to the Book of Icelanders, the settlement of Iceland began in the year 871 with the arrival of Ingólfur Arnarson to what is now the capital, Reykjavík. When he arrived, steam rising up from a hot spring prompted the name Reykjavík or “Smokey Bay”.

This early period is well documented in the Book of Settlements; however, if you’d like to find out more about why and how the Vikings came to Reykjavík, then a visit to the National Museum and the Settlement Exhibition will tell you all you need to know.

Even if a town was beginning to form, Reykjavík had no claim as a capital for some years yet. Reykjavík only became the seat of Icelandic legislation when the historic Icelandic Parliament, suspended in 1799 AD, was re-instituted in 1844 with Reykjavík as its seat. When Iceland became independent from the Danes a century later, in 1944, Reykjavík became the country’s capital. From then on, Reykjavík went from being a small town, so in sync with the farming community that surrounded it that cows were allowed to graze at the Austurvöllur square in front of the Parliament building, to the modern capital you see today.

Despite Reykjavík being the first inhabitated place in Iceland, it wasn’t until the 18th century that a small town began to grow around Ingólfur’s former homestead. Local hero, Sheriff Skúli Magnússon, opened wool mills in an effort to modernize the Icelandic economy so in a way, it was on the backs of sheep that Reykjavík was able to reach modern urban development.

Fortunately, the past isn’t lost. Reykjavík offers some great museums that bring you face to face with its colourful past, from recreating Viking heritage to uncovering the lives of everyday Icelanders in years gone by. But of course the best way to discover the city’s history is to combine your trip to the museum with a walk around Reykjavík’s historical sights on your own.

REYKJAVÍK FOR THE SEASONS SUMMER

AUTUMN

With almost 24 hours of daylight during the summer, Reykjavík becomes a city that never sleeps. Popular summertime activities including whalewatching, seaangling, horseback-riding and trips to the many natural wonders just outside the city limits.

Reykjavík’s calendar of events kicks into high gear during the fall with many important international conferences and big cultural festivals taking place. Starting dramatically at the end of September is the Reykjavík International Film Festival, which highlights independent filmmaking and showcases the work of up-andcoming filmmakers.

Perhaps one of the more remarkable summer destinations within Reykjavík city is the geothermal beach at Nauthólsvík, where you can spend the afternoon enjoying a picnic or swimming in a heated ocean lagoon. Sea-swimmers can enjoy the cooler waters of the Atlantic and warm up afterwards in the sauna or the two giant hot tubs. One of the best things about Reykjavík is its abundance of exceptional coffee houses, staffed with talented baristas. On a hot sunny day, the thriving coffeeculture often spills out onto the streets – particularly around the Austurvöllur square area, where coffee-loving crowd can be found sipping frappe-lattes while soaking up the sun.

Fans of peace, love and John Lennon won’t want to miss Yoko Ono’s annual Imagine Peace Tower ceremony in October, where she invites residents and visitors to join her for the illumination of a super-beam of light on Viðey Island in celebration of both John Lennon’s vision of peace and his birthday. In late October/early November you can experience the Icelandic music scene’s crowning glory - Iceland Airwaves, the coolest music festival of them all. The fiveday music extravaganza regularly draws top performers, countless festivalgoers and media attention from around the globe.

SPRING

There’s never a dull day in Reykjavík during the wintertime, even if they are dark! Apart from the occasional fall of luminous snow and regular displays of Northern Lights, there’s also a full calendar of cultural events with festivities galore, concerts, plays and many seasonal exhibitions.

In between the sunshine, showers and dustings of snow, the first blooms peek out at the Botanical Gardens in early April, and the new generation of farm animals arrives at the Reykjavík Family Park & Zoo.

Winter-sports enthusiasts will find many of exciting winter tours available from Reykjavík including monster jeep tours, horseback riding, dog sledding and snowmobiling on a glacier etc. Christmas season is always celebrated with great splendour. The city’s buildings, trees and streets are decorated with countless fairy lights, ornaments and Christmas displays. In February you can enjoy the tasty Food & Fun festival, followed closely by the Winter Lights Festival, which always delivers a packed program full of special events for the whole family.

WELCOME TO REYKJAVIK

WINTER

As the ice-melts on Reykjavík’s Tjörnin pond you’ll also notice the nation getting back to their outdoor routine, donning their jogging shoes, climbing back on their bikes and firing-up their grills for outdoor BBQs. It’s a great time to visit the outdoor areas of Reykjavík, and after a long day of activities, Reykjavík’s geothermal swimming pools are relaxing and soothing for tired travellers. March is dedicated to Icelandic design, with the Design-March Festival taking place, transforming the city into one big venue for exhibitions, fashion shows and other design-related events. There’s also plenty of other events on the festival calendar, including the Children’s Culture Festival, the Reykjavík Horse Festival, and the prestigious Reykjavík Arts Festival.

FAMILY FRIENDLY REYKJAVÍK Families will find plenty of interesting activities in Reykjavík. Whether it’s splashing around in a geothermally heated swimming pool, trying on Viking armour or viewing some of the largest mammals on Earth at close range, there’s fun to be had for all ages in the city. Visiting families will be relieved to discover that Reykjavík is particularly family friendly, with a safe and clean city, that’s simple to navigate on foot with easy access to nature. Local businesses are very accommodating of families with young children; even in the hippest of coffee shops and restaurants you’ll find high-chairs and play-areas set aside for the kids. Reykjavík has much to offer visitors at affordable prices – sometimes even for free! Below are our top ten recommendations for active families and curious kids to enjoy while visiting Reykjavík.

TOP TEN FAMILY ACTIVITIES Splash & play in any of the 18 swimming pools in the Reykjavík Capital Area. Make friends with the resident ducks, geese and swans of Tjörnin Lake. Experience Viking times at one of the capital area’s many museums. Visit the animals at the Reykjavík Family Park & Zoo. Try delicious Icelandic food – hot dogs, soft ice cream, skyr and black liquorice. Climb to the very top of majestic Mount Esja. Go horse riding through pastoral valleys and rocky lava fields. See whales and puffins on a boat trip from the old harbour.

TOP FAMILY FRIENDLY EVENTS

Children’s Culture Festival (April), First Day of Summer (April), Festival of the Sea (June), Independence Day (June 17), and Reykjavík Culture Night (August).

Watch bubbling hot springs and roaring waterfalls on a day trip from Reykjavík. Revel in a Reykjavík winter – be dazzled by the multi-coloured Christmas lights, visit the Hafnarfjörður Christmas Village, skate on Tjörnin Lake or simply start a snowball fight.

HIGHLIGHTS OF REYKJAVÍK THE SUN VOYAGER A beautiful sculpture of a Viking ship located by the ocean on a small peninsula by Sæbraut, close to the Reykjavík centre. The sculpture, by Jón Gunnar Árnason, symbolises the Viking past of the Icelanders and an ode to the sun. It serves as reminder of our history and heritage when the first Viking settlers came sailing to Iceland. An ideal opportunity to see Sólfarið is when the sun is setting.

REYKJAVÍK CITY HALL The building, with its impressive, modern design, was completed in 1992 and sits right on the northern shore of Lake Tjörnin. Its main purpose is to house offices for the mayor and city’s excutive officials but it’s still open to visitors and the reception area features exhibition halls where exhibitions and cultural events take place. The three dimensional map of Iceland is also always a favourite with visitors to the country.

HALLGRÍMSKIRKJA

The majestic church is one of Reykjavík’s most iconic buildings and is visible from almost anywhere in the city. The tower of the church is among the city’s highest buildings and offers a fantastic view of the city. It’s named after the Icelandic poet and clergyman Hallgrímur Pétursson, author of the Passion Hymns. The architect, Guðjón Samúelsson, designed the church to resemble the basalt columns of Iceland’s landscape.

PERLAN Perlan is one of Reykjavík’s most striking buildings. It’s a stand-out piece of architecture for its modern construction. On the fourth level is a 360° viewing platform where you can get the best panoramic views of Reykjavík. When the sun sets, it’s a spectacular spot for the Northern Lights. You can dine at the Perlan restaurant. It rotates slowly, so you get to see the whole city without even having to turn your head.

The descriptive name comes from the fact that it’s the first lasting harbour in Reykjavík. The most visited area is the eastern pier where you’ll find a community of shops, galleries, electric bike and scooter rentals and guided tours in Reykjavík and whale watching companies. Ever since the majority of the Reykjavík fishing industry moved to the new harbour, the area is filled with excellent restaurants and coffee houses, shops, galleries and museums.

WELCOME TO REYKJAVIK

THE OLD HARBOUR

TJÖRNIN – THE POND Lake Tjörnin is the heart of Reykjavík. People go to the pond to feed the birds and enjoy one of the most amazing views that Reykjavík has to offer. A walk in the adjoining park, Hljómskálagarður is delightful on a sunny summer’s day. The lake freezes over in winter, although hot geothermal water is pumped in to defrost an area for the birds. If you’ve brought your skates, skating on Lake Tjörnin is a popular pastime, especially when the city is adorned with Christmas lights.

VIÐEY ISLAND

More info on page 106

Apart from its ancient ruins and rich historical background, other attractions include impressive works of art. With an extensive network of trails and a population of resident horses, the island can be explored both on foot and by horseback. No matter what path you take, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the surrounding mainland, and to the west, you’ll be able to see the impressive outline of the Snæfellsnes peninsula.

HARPA Harpa is Iceland’s biggest concert hall, suitable for a broad range of concerts and cultural events. Looking out over the Reykjavík harbour and glorious mt. Esjan on the other side, Harpa also hosts promotions, plays, and public events. It’s open to everyone, always, and you should definitely visit Harpa, whether it’s for a show, to buy souvenirs, a concert or a lovely dinner in one of the fabulous restaurants. The attention-grabbing building was designed by a Danish firm in co-operation with Ólafur Elíasson, an Icelandic artist.

HÖFÐI HOUSE Höfði House, built in 1909, is considered to be one of the most beautiful and historically significant buildings in the Reykjavík area. It’s best known as the location for the 1986 summit meeting of presidents Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev, a historical event that effectively marked the end of the Cold War. During this meeting images of the house were broadcast all over the world. The sculpture in front of the house symbolises the pillars from the chieftain’s seat of the first Norwegian settler in Reykjavík. More info on page 108

NAUTHÓLSVÍK

More info on page 104

The golden-sanded geothermal beach at Nauthólsvík in Reykjavík is a little piece of paradise. It was opened in 2001 to the delight of residents and tourists alike and now attracts an estimated 530.000 guests each year. The creation of the geothermal beach was an ambitious, but very successful, project involving the construction of a lagoon with large sea walls, where cold sea and hot geothermal water blend together to ensure comfortable temperatures.

LAUGARDALUR Laugardalur is a charming neighbourhood, containing a youth hostel, a campsite, and the largest outdoor thermal pool in Reykjavík, Laugardalslaug. There’s also a skating hall, a family park/petting zoo, making it perfect for a family day out. Laugardalur also boasts a beautiful botanical garden featuring an impressive selection of arctic flowers and plants as well as a lovely café.

More info on page 110

IMAGINE PEACE TOWER Yoko Ono is the artist behind this beacon to world peace, dedicated to her husband, John Lennon. The work is designed in the form of a wishing well from which a powerful tower of light beams. The light tower is composed of a number of individual lights that join together to form a single beam. The strength, intensity and brilliance of the light tower continually changes as particles in the air fluctuate with the changing weather and atmospheric conditions of Iceland. The beam is visible from all over Reykjavík. More info on page 106

LAUGARDALSLAUG

Every country has traditions when it comes to leisure. Iceland’s favourite pastime is going swimming. Every town has at least one geothermally heated swimming pool and Laugardalslaug is the Reykjavík’s largest, located in Laugardalur Valley. Its facilities include a 50m outdoor pool, outdoor children’s pool and paddling pool, two waterslides, numerous hot tubs, steam bath, gym and mini golf course. There really is no better place to be on a sunny day, or a cold one for that matter.

More info on page 117

Delicious Milk Chocolate from Iceland’s oldest confectioner, all wrapped up in the beauty of Iceland. NET WEIGHT: 100g

You’ll find directions inside the packaging on how you can download the image that adorns each of these irresistible treats. sweetmemories.is

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GET THE PHOTOS FOR FREE

REYKJAVÍK EXPERIENCE WINING & DINING Visitors will be pleased to learn that Reykjavík is fast becoming one of the best locations to sample quality new Nordic cuisine. The talented local chefs spend all their waking days conjuring up new ways to showcase the fresh, seasonal ingredients that Iceland is so famous for, such as fresh seafood, organic lamb and wild game! We recommend visitors try out the Icelandic cuisine, which is characterized by an imaginative use of local ingredients; but be sure to try the fabulous Icelandic hotdog and ice cream too! Apart from the great food available in Reykjavík, the city also boasts a remarkable café culture, where trained baristas serving quality coffee are the rule rather than the exception. For an even greater surprise we encourage our guests to give their taste buds a treat by sampling some

the various award-winning local beers available. There’s even a school of beer run by the city’s oldest brewery for those who like a little history to go with their beer tasting!

SHOPPING & DESIGN For the best shopping experience in Reykjavík we recommend you go downtown, where most of the shops and boutiques are concentrated on Laugavegur and Skólavörðustígur. Whether you’re looking to get a gift or souvenir, something unique from one of our many talented designers or even a midnight snack, the city centre is well supplied with brand names, obscure fashion shops, quality art studios and convenience stores. If you prefer the mall experience and those global brands, you can take a trip to Kringlan – home to around 150 shops, restaurants and services under one roof.

Shopping hours in Reykjavík can vary but most places are open between the hours of 10am and 6pm during the week with shorter opening hours on weekends. Remember to reclaim your 15% VAT (value added tax) refund from your purchases.

ARTS & CULTURE WELCOME TO REYKJAVIK

Reykjavík is the place to be for those with an interest in the world of arts and culture, and is home to the majority of our most prestigious cultural institutions and talented performers and artists. Designated as a UNESCO City of Literature, Reykjavík is also the core of Iceland’s literary heritage where you’ll discover a treasure of literary works and a wealth of talented poets and authors. In recent years, Reykjavík has become well known for its prolific music and performing arts scene – the city is a breeding ground for musical talent and hosts several highly active theatre companies. Adding to the city’s reputation for creativity are a number of wellestablished musicians such as the legendary Björk, the indefinable Sigur Rós, indie darlings Of Monsters And Men and Sóley.

HEALTH & WELLNESS Reykjavík´s clean energy and proximity to nature ensure a vacation guaranteed to replenish your wellbeing and give you a boost of energy that will last long after your return home. Concentrated mainly in the green spaces and areas are some of the city’s best facilities and services promoting “health & well-being” where you can try out a multitude of healthy outdoor activities and experience the feel-good energy that comes with all that fresh clean air! Apart from all those invigorating outdoor activities, where you can indulge in anything from seaswimming in Nauthólsvík thermal beach to horseback-riding in the red hills of Heiðmörk, visitors are also thoroughly encouraged to experience Iceland’s greatest source of well-being by trying out one of our numerous thermal pools and spas – not only an important part of our culture but also a wonderful tonic for the body and mind.

NIGHTLIFE You could blame it on those long winter nights, the endless summer days, or maybe exceptional quality of the locally produced beer and Icelandic schnapps; whatever the reason, Reykjavík’s legendary nightlife (“djammið” as the locals refer to it) has a reputation as one of the hottest places in the world to party! If you’ve spent the day absorbing all that green energy in the great outdoors and you need to spend it somewhere, then it’s time to trade those waterproofs and walking boots for your glad-rags and party shoes and see if you have enough stamina to stay up as long as a local! We’ve got pubs, clubs and lots of live venues to suit a multitude of different party moods! On weekdays most bars are open until 1am, but on weekends, the bars can stay open until 4.30 am. Bars and clubs do not charge an entrance fee; however, expect to pay a small charge for entrance to some live music venues. If you look younger than the minimum drinking age which is TWENTY, then make sure you bring your ID out with you.

ICELANDâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;S SECRET TO HEALTHY LIVING

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IT’S ALL HAPPENING IN REYKJAVÍK CITY!

REYKJAVÍK WINTER LIGHTS FESTIVAL

Iceland can get dreary during the darkest months, especially February. The Winter Lights Festival was created to stimulate the city life in mid-winter, and was intended not only to combat the darkness but to celebrate the unique subarctic nights. Over the years the Winter Lights festival has evolved into an incredibly fun four-day festival with an array of great events, such as the Museum Night and Pool Night.

WELCOME TO REYKJAVIK

festivals

Reykjavík City is full of activity all year round. A number of annual festivals and seasonal events attract festivalgoers from all around the world. Apart from the city’s superb official events, such as the Winter Lights Festival and Culture Night, there’s also a host of film festivals, design events, music festivals, and other events celebrating everything from the arrival of summer to the city’s wealth of culture!

FOOD & FUN

Outstanding culinary skills, fresh local ingredients, Icelandic outdoor adventures and the worldfamous Reykjavík nightlife is the ultimate recipe for fun. The festival features world-acclaimed chefs collaborating with Reykjavík’s finest restaurants. Each chef is assigned to a restaurant, where they prepare a special menu crafted around Icelandic ingredients. The menus are presented at all the restaurants for an entire week.

DESIGN MARCH

A celebration of Icelandic design, showcasing the best creations of the Reykjavík design scene. The scene is small and intimate, which means you’ll get the chance to meet all the stars of local design. From fashion to furniture, architecture to food design, the festival presents the best of the local designers alongside exciting international names. For four days Reykjavík is transformed into a mega venue hosting hundreds of openings, events, exhibitions and parties.

ILLUMINATION OF THE IMAGINE PEACE TOWER ON VIÐEY ISLAND

Yoko Ono’s Imagine Peace Tower is an extraordinary dedication to John Lennon and his vision of world peace. Installed on Viðey Island on October 9th 2007, this stunning work of art is lit annually on Lennon’s birthday. The powerful super-beam of light reaches approximately 400 metres into the sky on a clear night and illuminate the skies above Reykjavík nightly until the anniversary of Lennon’s death on 8 December. Every year, Yoko invites visitors on a complimentary ferry trip to the island to take part in the beautiful illumination ceremony.

REYKJAVÍK CHILDREN’S CULTURE FESTIVAL

A week-long arts and culture festival dedicated to children and youth. Children’s culture, culture for children and culture with children, these are the three main aspects of the festival. Dedicated exclusively to children and young people in Reykjavík up to the age of 16, this annual festival strives to introduce a wide range of art disciplines to Icelandic youth, through the medium of workshops and performances.

REYKJAVÍK ARTS FESTIVAL

RAF focuses on new commissions and the creative intersection of the arts. It brings together major cultural venues and unconventional spaces throughout the city in exhibitions and performances of contemporary and classical works, presented to the widest possible audience. The Festival is one of Northern Europe’s oldest and promotes Icelandic and international culture in all fields of art, bringing together the best in local and international theatre, dance, music, and visual art.

REYKJAVÍK PRIDE This colourful event brings tens of thousands of people into the city centre every year to show solidarity and have fun with the LGBT+ community of Reykjavík. People of all genders, friends, relatives, and a fast growing number of tourists, come together to celebrate and support universal human rights. Our cosy little pride parade, originally visited by some fifteen hundred onlookers, has blossomed and evolved into a colourful six-day celebration that attracts up to 100 thousand guests from all over the world.

REYKJAVÍK CULTURE NIGHT

Takes place all across Reykjavík with celebrations in city streets and squares, in museums, businesses and even in residential gardens! The event’s slogan “come on in!” is a reference to those good old fashioned customs of hospitality. Culture Night is a permanent fixture in the annual calendar of events in Reykjavík and marks the start of the city’s cultural year, when museums, theatres and other cultural institutions launch their annual programme of events.

ICELAND AIRWAVES

A critically acclaimed international music festival showcasing the hottest new international bands and the best up-and-coming Icelandic artists. It started out as a one-off gig in an airplane hangar back in 1999, with only 5 bands, but now it has established itself as one of the hippest events on the international music festival calendar. The festival attracts thousands of visitors from around the world, who come in search of some fresh audio dynamite and an adventure at edge of the Arctic Circle.

For more information about the festivals in the city check out www.visitreykjavik.is

PROBABLY THE

WORLDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S SMALLEST WATCH MANUFACTURER

Our Master Watchmaker never loses his concentration With his legendary concentration and 45 years of experience our Master Watchmaker and renowned craftsman, Gilbert O. Gudjonsson, inspects every single timepiece before it leaves our workshop.

All the watches are designed and assembled by hand in Iceland. Only highest quality movements and materials are used to produce the watches and every single detail has been given the time needed for perfection.

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re always happy to assist and we provide a friendly and reliable service where our customers speak directly to the designers and manufacturers of the brand.

Gilbert Watchmaker, Laugvegur 62, 101 Reykjavik, tel + (354) 551 4100, www.jswatch.com

24 48 72

Choose a card that suits your stay: 24, 48 or 72 hours

Reykjavík is a cosmopolitan city, bustling with energy. There are plenty of things to see, do and experience and the Reykjavík City Card is the easiest and most inexpensive way to experience our favourite city! The Reykjavík City Card offers free entry to a great selection of museums and galleries, all swimming pools in Reykjavík and free unlimited travel by bus within the Reykjavík Capital Area. In addition, the card also gives you a free ferry trip to Viðey island and discounts on various tours, in shops and on services. The card is available for 24, 48 or 72 hours. On the next page, check out our guide to a day out with the Reykjavík City Card. Get to know our favourite city the easy way and save money!

INCLUDED IN THE REYKJAVÍK CITY CARD IS FREE ADMISSION TO: FREE ADMISSION TO: REYKJAVÍK CITY BUSES Free unlimited travel by bus within the Reykjavík Capital Area. For schedule, visit www.bus.is or download the Strætó mobile app. REYKJAVÍK CITY THERMAL POOLS For information about the pools, visit www.itr. is or check out our page on them (124). MUSEUMS For a list and information about the museums included, please refer to our museum pages. For information on where to get the city card, check out www.visitreykjavik.is

CHILDREN’S CITY CARD

Admission to the museums is free for those under 18 years of age; however, there are fees for children on city bus services, swimming pools, the Reykjavík Park and Zoo and on the ferry to Viðey Island. In order to accommodate families, we offer a special Children’s City Card, at a significantly reduced fee. Cards are valid for same duration: 24 hours, 48 hours and 72 hours. For more information, check out www.citycard.is or contact the Tourist Information Centre or check out page 124..

Tourist Information Centre Aðalstræti 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 590 1550 info@visitReykjavik.is www.citycard.is www.facebook.com/visitReykjavík Instagram – visitReykjavík Twitter - @visitReykjavík

Meet some of Icelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest designers Epal Harpa / Epal Skeifan 6 / Epal Design Kringlan / Epal Icelandic Design Laugavegi 70

www.epal.is

A DAY WITH

THE REYKJAVÍK CITY CARD THE HISTORY BUFF SETTLEMENT EXHIBITION If you want go get to know Icelandic history and culture, there’s no better place to start than at the beginning. Excavations have revealed ruins from the 10th century, just a few decades after the first permanent settlement of Iceland. You can visit the ruins at the settlement exhibition.

NATIONAL MUSEUM From the Settlement exhibition, it’s a short walk to the National museum, past the old Reykjavík cemetery. The permanent exhibition at the National gallery titled “the making of a nation” offers a sense of the evolution of the Icelandic nation through the centuries.

ÁRBÆJARSAFN By now you’ve spent enough time inside a dark museum, it’s time to jump on

the bus no. 6 and head to the Open air museum – Árbæjarsafn. It’s a collection of historical buildings that have been moved there, mostly from the centre of Reykjavík. Árbæjarsafn will give you a sense of what life was like in the farming community in days gone by.

SWIMMING Finish up a day of immersing yourself in Icelandic history by immersing yourself in a hot tub. They’re usually populated by several generations of Icelanders discussing politics, culture, the news, their cats and whatever else they can think of.

IF YOU HAVE AN EXTRA DAY... ...We recommend checking out the Reykjavík Maritime Museum, which gives insight into an integral part of Icelandic culture and economy. Visit the Culture House, where historical artefacts and works of art are exhibited together, for a new perspective on what it is to be an Icelander.

FAMILY DAY OUT

NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND

REYKJAVÍK ZOO AND FAMILY PARK

Start the day off by getting to the National gallery, down by lake Tjörnin. The focus is on 19th and 20th century artists and with no permanent exhibition, there‘s always something new to see!

Is there a better way to start a family day than to watch the reindeers of the Reykjavík zoo eat their breakfast? The Reykjavík zoo doesn’t contain any lions or elephants, but rather common Icelandic barnyard animals, and Icelandic animals, such as arctic foxes, seals and reindeer. The family park is a great playground with rides.

REYKJAVÍK ART MUSEUM The Reykjavík Art museum is located in three separate buildings so now it’s time to choose. Do you head down to Hafnarhús, where modern and experimental art is kept, along with a permanent exhibition of pop artist Erró’s work? Or are you more interested in exhibitions of paintings and sculptures, and a permanent exhibition by one of Iceland’s most celebrated painters, Kjarval, at Kjarvalsstaðir? Perhaps you’d like to get to know the life work of sculptor Ásmundur Sveinsson at Ásmundarsafn?

MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY If you chose Hafnarhús, the Reykjavík Museum of Photography is only next door, in the same building as the Reykjavík library. The exhibitions at the museum of photography are a diverse bunch, artistic, historic and journalistic photography all get a chance to adorn the walls of their gallery.

IF YOU HAVE AN EXTRA DAY... ...Check out the locations of the Reykjavík Art Museum you missed, or head down to The Culture House, where historical artefacts and works of art are exhibited together, for a new perspective on what it is to be an Icelander.

WELCOME TO REYKJAVIK

THE ART LOVER

A TRIP TO VIÐEY OR ÁRBÆJARSAFN Depending on your interests (and/ or seasickness), you could either take the ferry out to Viðey, (for attractions in Viðey, check out page 105) or head over to the Árbær open air museum. The old buildings, the costumed staff and the toy exhibition are sure to keep the whole family entertained.

GO SWIMMING After a day of entertainment, there’s nothing better than relaxing in the hot tub while the kids splash in the pool and play in the waterslide. If you are in Árbæjarsafn, hop on bus no. 5 and head to Árbæjarlaug swimming pool.

IF YOU HAVE AN EXTRA DAY... ...Head to the Reykjavík Maritime Museum for a chance to board Óðinn, the former coast guard vessel, used during the cod wars. The national museum is another great option, with interactive exhibitions and areas dedicated specially to kids.

Kolabrautin is on 4th floor Harpa

Reservations

+354 519 9700 info@kolabrautin.is www.kolabrautin.is

For a special evening with a view like no other A dinner at the elevated fourth floor of Harpa concert hall is a destination in itself. Relax and enjoy the best Icelandic produce complemented with a spectacular panoramic view of ReykjavĂk and the surrounding horizon.

MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES

MUSEUMS &

GALLERIES

For such a small city, Reykjavík abounds with museums. It’s no wonder, since the country’s history is unique and the artistic spirit of its inhabitants is almost like a force of nature. You can discover a quirky, young artist at the Living Art Museum, get a look at Iceland’s outlandish national costumes at the National Museum, and finish up the day with a lesson on how to properly milk an Icelandic cow at Árbær Open Air Museum. 35

ÁRBÆR OPEN AIR MUSEUM A Family Friendly Museum Standing in the middle of Árbær Open Air Museum is like going back in time, with only the distant sound of traffic as a reminder of modern times. The museum has collected household items, costumes and even entire houses to reconstruct this open air, living museum. The grounds are roughly divided into a town square, a village and farm, with staff in period costumes walking around and interacting with the guests. There are also special demonstrations that highlight certain activities like various crafts, farming methods or even how to properly milk a cow. The Árbær Open Air Museum collects and conserves objects from the cultural history of Reykjavík and carries out research on them, in order to further and spread knowledge of the history and living conditions of the people of Reykjavík from the settlement Age to the present day.

Kistuhylur 4, 110 Reykjavík +354 411 6300 www.Reykjavíkcitymuseum.is citymuseum@Reykjavik.is Open:

Jun—Aug | Daily 10-17 Sep—May | Guided tours only.

Adults (18+): 1800 ISK

Guided tours at 13:00 all year round.

NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND The National Gallery of Iceland, established in 1884, is the principal art museum of Iceland. Its art collection consists mainly of works of 19th and 20th century art. In its possession are many of the keystones of Icelandic art history, as well as a growing collection of works from other countries. The National Gallery’s main role is to collect, preserve, research and exhibit Icelandic art and offer education about it. A considerable emphasis is also laid on showing Icelandic art in context with international art. The museum sees it as one of its priorities to educate visitors about exhibitions and single art works, by means of texts, guidance, meetings with artists and a databank which is accessible through computers in the National Gallery’s education centre.

Special guided tours and guidance in foreign languages by agreement.

Fríkirkjuvegur 7, 101 Reykjavík +354 515 9600 www.listasafn.is Open:

Jun—Aug | Daily 10-17 Sep—May | Tue-Sun 11-17

Adults (18+): 1500 ISK

Hönnun: Marknet ehf.

1000+ reviews

Bankastræti 2, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 551 4430 info@laekjarbrekka.is www.laekjarbrekka.is

Let’s be friends!

/laekjarbrekka

THE SETTLEMENT EXHIBITION A Family Friendly Museum At The Settlement Exhibition in Aðalstræti visitors can experience the settlement of Iceland in late 9th century through two remarkable exhibitions. The Settlement Exhibition revolves around an excavated site, the actual remains of a Viking Age longhouse that have been preserved in situ. The exhibition gives an invaluable insight into the life and times of the first people to inhabit the Reykjavík area and the ways in which they adapted to their new environment. The exhibition is founded on archaeological and other scientific research and introduces visitors to the latest facts and interpretations forwarded by a range of experts who have concentrated on this period of our history.

Aðalstræti 16, 101 Reykjavík +354 411 6300 www.Reykjavíkcitymuseum.is citymuseum@Reykjavik.is

The exhibition is suitable for all ages and includes an activity center for children.

Guided tours at 11:00 on Mon, Wed and Fri from Mid-Jun to Aug.

Open: Daily 9-20 Adults (18+): 1500 ISK Combined ticket for both the Settlement Exhibition and Sagas: 2200 ISK.

THE SETTLEMENT SAGAS A Family Friendly Museum Settlement Sagas comprises some of the nation’s most renowned documents, many of them written in the twelfth century but relating events that go back as far as 874 AD, when the first settlers are said to have come to Iceland. These Icelandic manuscripts are recognised by UNESCO as having outstanding cultural value.

These two exhibitions hosted by the Reykjavík City Museum afford an unprecedented view into the origins of Icelandic culture. One is based on archaeological findings from the Settlement times and the other on manuscripts documenting the same period. This is also the first time Iceland’s literary heritage and archaeological history have been placed side by side for the general public. In addition, the preservation of these precious manuscripts is one of the reasons why UNESCO officially designated Reykjavík as a City of Literature in 2011.

Aðalstræti 16, 101 Reykjavík +354 411 6300 www.Reykjavíkcitymuseum.is citymuseum@Reykjavik.is Open: Daily 9-20 Adults (18+): 1100 ISK Combined ticket for both the Settlement Exhibition and Sagas: 2200 ISK.

SEAFOOD

BUFFET Every day from 17:30

Tel +354 552 3030 restaurant@restaurantreykjavik.is www.restaurantreykjavik.is Vesturgata 2 – 101 Reykjavík

REYKJAVÍK MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY A Family Friendly Museum Reykjavík Museum of Photography is the only museum of photography in Iceland. The aim of the museum is to shape a unique vision and to be leading in its field. The museum preserves various photo collections from professional and amateur photographers, around 5 million photographs from the period around 1870 to 2002. The collection´s themes are diverse. One can find family photographs, photos from portrait studios, industrialand advertising photographs, press photography, landscape photographs and more.

EXHIBITIONS The museum’s exhibitions focus on Icelandic photography, works from Collection and works of foreign photographers. The museum exhibits both historical and contemporary photography in artistic- social- and cultural context.

Tryggvagata 15, 101 Reykjavík +354 411 6300 www.Reykjavíkcitymuseum.is citymuseum@Reykjavik.is Open:

Mon-Tue 12-19 Fri 12-18 Weekends 13-17

Offices and Museum Shop Open: Mon-Fri 10-16 Free admission.

REYKJAVÍK MARITIME MUSEUM A Family Friendly Museum The museum is situated in Reykjavík’s picturesque active fishing harbour, only a 10-minute walk from the city centre. Enjoy the fantastic view of the boats, fishermen and birdlife before entering the museum. For centuries, Icelanders depended heavily on fishing and the sea for survival, and as a result the country has a long and rich maritime history. In the Reykjavík Maritime Museum you can explore this history, including beautiful ship-models, realistic scenery as well as both dried and live fish! The magnificent Coast Guard Vessel Óðinn, who took part in all three cod wars, is a part of the museum, docked outside in the beautiful harbour. A wonderful place for a fun day out with family or friends!

Guided tours of the ship: 11 (June 8thAugust 24th), 13, 14 and 15.

Grandagarður 8 101 Reykjavík +354 411 6300 www.Reykjavíkcitymuseum.is citymuseum@Reykjavik.is Open: Daily 10-17 Adults (18+): Museum: 1500 ISK Óðinn: 1200 ISK Combined Ticket: 2200 ISK

GLJÚFRASTEINN – LAXNESS MUSEUM

Gljúfrasteinn was the home and workplace of Halldór Laxness and his family for more than half a century. In 2004 it was opened to the public as a museum, unchanged from when Laxness lived there. In the reception building you can watch a multimedia presentation dedicated to Laxness’s life and work. Tickets for admission, books and souvenirs are also sold there. In the beautiful countryside around Gljúfrasteinn, visitors can take walks as part of their visit, to see where Laxness spent his childhood and later in life sought his inspiration. Audio tours of the house are available in Icelandic, English, German, Swedish and Danish and a folder in French. Gljúfrasteinn is only in about 25 minutes

distance from Reykjavík city center and is on the way to Þingvellir National Park Closed for repairs until autumn 2016.

Gljúfrasteinn, 270 Mosfellsbær +354 586 8066 www.gljufrasteinn.is Open:

MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES

Halldór Laxness was one of Iceland’s most respected authors and was prolific in his writing, producing 62 books over 68 years. He was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1955.

Jun—Aug | Daily 9-17 Sep—May | Tue-Sun 10-17

After years of study, strings of awards and having led kitchens of some of Reykjavík’s most esteemed restaurants, Gústav still sees him self as just a kid from up north, with a lifetime passion for fish.

1100

SKÓLAVÖRÐUSTÍGUR 14 - 101 REYKJAVÍK - TEL: +354 571 1100 41

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND The National Museum of Iceland is the oldest museum in the country and celebrated its 150th birthday in 2013. At the museum you can explore the permanent exhibition, Making of a Nation - Heritage and History in Iceland, which is intended to provide insight into the history of the Icelandic nation from the Settlement to the present day. The exhibition is conceived as a journey through time: it begins with the ship, in which medieval settlers crossed the ocean to their new home; it ends in a modern airport, the Icelanders’ gateway to the world. The museum caters to all ages and you can find games, play dress up and explore the museum via interactive touch screens and audio-guides which complement the exhibitions. Guided tours in English are offered at 11 o‘clock, Wed, Sat and Sun from May to Mid-Sep.

Suðurgata 41, 101 Reykjavík +354 530-2200 www.nationalmuseum.is Open:

May—Mid-Sep | Daily 10-17 Mid-Sep—May | Tue-Sun 11-17

Wheelchair Accessible. Adults (18+): 1500 ISK

THE CULTURE HOUSE Built as a library in the beginning of the 20th century, the Culture House is one of the most beautiful houses in Reykjavík. It has had many roles through the years, but today it houses the permanent exhibition “Points of View”. Points of view is a unique exhibition as it focuses, not on art or history separately, but rather an exploration of the aesthetic vision of Iceland and the Icelanders through the years. The exhibition is not chronological, but instead mixes modern art and media with historical artefacts, photographs, documents and other objects and the result is a unique snapshot of the cultural history of Iceland. The exhibition is a collaboration between six Icelandic cultural institutions, The National Museum of Iceland, The National Gallery of Iceland, The National Library of Iceland, The Árni Magnússon Institute of Icelandic Studies, The National Archives and the Museum of Natural History.

Hverfisgata 15, Reykjavík +354 530 2210 www.culturehouse.is Open:

May—Mid-Sep | Daily 10-17 Mid-Sep—May | Tue-Sun 10-17

Adults (18+): 1200 ISK

HEIM

ILISMATUR

Tasty & fresh

Icelandic Ready Meals

HEATING TIME GUIDE: Heating in a microwave: 2,5 –3,5 min. · Heating in a pot: 5 –7 min. · Heating in an oven: 15–20 min.

VOLCANO HOUSE Iceland is one of the most interesting places in the world, geologically speaking. The island is constantly changing, and on average there is a volcanic eruption every 4-5 years, occasionally even threatening inhabited areas. Along with a mineral exhibition, the Volcano House has an hourly Volcano Show, featuring two documentaries on two of Iceland’s biggest eruptions. The first is about the eruption in the Vestmannaeyjar Islands in 1973. The small fisherman community was suddenly under attack in the middle of the night, without warning, forcing nearly 5,000 locals away from their homes. The second film documents the infamous eruption in Eyjafjallajökull 2010. This massive eruption caused thousands of flight cancellations, leaving millions of people stranded. The film shows gripping, Emmy-nominated footage of the eruption, allowing you to experience those momentous eruptions from the comfort of the in-house cinema.

The mineral exhibition gives an overview of Iceland’s geological history and volcanic systems. A large collection of semi-precious rocks and minerals, as well as ash and lava, is also on a display.

Tryggvagata 11, 101 Reykjavík Center of Reykjavík, by the Old Harbour +354 555 1900 | www.volcanohouse.is Total Showtime of the films is 53 min. English: 10-21 (every hour on the hour)

AURORA REYKJAVÍK Take a walk through history and learn how people and cultures around the world saw the Northern Lights via legends and myths connected to this amazing phenomenon. There are interactive displays as well as a specially equipped ‘photo booth’ where you can learn how to adjust your camera’s settings should you want to try your hand at capturing the auroras yourself. The high point of your visit to the center will certainly be their theatre where a continuously running HD film is playing throughout the day. Projected onto a 7 metre wide screen, you can sit back and enjoy this 13 minute film that features some of the most magnificent auroral displays seen over Iceland. The film is accompanied by soft music in surroundsound, making this a therapeutic and restful experience. You’ll feel like you have just come back from a blissful holiday!

Their knowledgeable and friendly staff are on hand to answer any questions you may have about the lights and

about Northern Lights photography. The gift shop stocks a unique selection of high quality handmade items by young Icelandic designers, photographers and artists.

Grandagarður 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 780 4500 www.aurorareykjavik.is Open: Daily 9-21 Adults (18+): 1600 ISK

Organic bistro

Creating a tradition

Tryggvagata 11 - Volcano house Tel:5111118 www.fishandchips.is

GERÐARSAFN Gerðarsafn is an ambitious modern and contemporary art museum in Kópavogur. It’s dedicated to the memory of Gerður Helgadóttir (1928-1975) and opened in 1944, the first museum in Iceland to be dedicated to the life work of a woman. Gerður focused on sculptures and was a pioneer in three-dimensional abstracts and glasswork in Iceland. The museum’s collection contains 1400 works by Gerður as well as collections of the works of Barbara Árnason, Magnús Á Árnason, Valgerður Briem and several other contemporary artists. The museum’s exhibitions are diverse, with the works of Icelandic as well as international contemporary artists regularly on display along with exhibitions from the museum’s collection. The giftstore features souvenirs specially made for the museum, which are based on the works of Gerður Helgadóttir, as well as books on art and other subjects.

Hamraborg 4, 200 Kópavogur +354 441 7600 www.gerdarsafn.is Open: Tue-Sun 11-17 Adults (18+): 500 ISK

KÓPAVOGUR CULTURAL CENTRE The cultural heart of Kópavogur lies in the Hamraborg area. Not only is it home to the Kópavogur art museum, Gerðarsafn but several other cultural institutions as well.

KÓPAVOGUR NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM The Kópavogur Natural History Museum is one of the leading natural science institutes in Iceland. The museum hosts exhibitions, with an emphasis on geology and Icelandic wildlife, including the arctic fox and numerous species of fish and birds. It also has an “extraordinary” (as described by David Attenborough, when he visited in 2005) exhibition of Japanese style “Marimo” lake balls.

SALURINN

The Kópavogur Concert hall is the first one in Iceland to be specifically designed to host concerts. The building is one of a kind, with roots in Icelandic nature, partly clad with driftwood, collected at Langanes in the northeast of Iceland, and the hall is equipped with two grand pianos, a Steinway and a Bösendorfer.

THE KÓPAVOGUR LIBRARY In the same building as the Museum of Natural History is the Kópavogur Library. The library is open to everyone and is a sort of a community centre for the town, where people have a chat over a cup of coffee, read the papers and get the newest books.

Day Tours Golden Circle Whale Watching

Puffin Tours Horse Riding Diving & Snorkeling

We are also online

Traditional french cuisine with a Nordic twist

Lobsterhouse

www.torfan.is - Amtmannsstígur 1, 101 Reykjavík Reservations via tel.: +354 561 3303 or info@torfan.is

OTHER MUSEUMS AND GALLERIS MUSEUMS EINAR JÓNSSON MUSEUM

Eiríksgata, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 3797 | lej.is Open: Jun—Mid-Sep | Tue-Sun 13-17 Mid-Sep—May | Sat-Sun 13-17 Closed Jan and Feb

GERÐUBERG CULTURE CENTRE Gerðuberg 3-5, 111 Reykjavík +354 575 7700 | gerduberg.is

HAFNARBORG CENTRE OF CULTURE AND FINE ART Strandgata 35, 220 Hafnarfjorður +354 585 5790 | hafnarborg.is Open: Fri-Mon, Wed 12-17, Thu-12-21

HANNESARHOLT CULTURAL HOUSE Grundarstíg 10, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 1904 | hannesarholt.is

HOFSSTAÐIR HISTORIC PARK VIKING LONGHOUSE Kirkjulundur, 210 Garðabær +354 525 8500 | gardabaer.is

MUSEUM OF DESIGN AND APPLIED ART Garðartorgi 1, 210 Garðabær +354 512 1525 | honnunarsafn.is Open: Tue-Sun 12-17

MUSEUM OF HAFNARFJÖRÐUR

Vesturgata 8, 220 Hafnarfjorður +354 585 5780 | visithafnarfjordur.is

NATIONAL ARCHIVES

Laugavegur 162, 105 Reykjavík +354 590 3300 | archives.is

NATIONAL FILM ARCHIVE OF ICELAND Strandgata 6, 220 Hafnarfjorður +354 565 5993 | kvikmyndasafn.is

NORDIC HOUSE

Sturlugata 5, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 7030 | nordice.is Open: Tue-Sun 12-17

NUMISMATIC MUSEUM

Einholt 4, 105 Reykjavík +354 569 9600 | cb.is Open: Mon-Fri 13.30-15.30

THE LIVING ART MUSEUM

Völvufell 13-21, 111 Reykjavík +354 551 4350 | nylo.is Open: Tue-Fri 12-17 Sat-Sun during exhibitions 13–17

REYKJAVÍK ART MUSEUM ÁSMUNDARSAFN

Sigtún, 105 Reykjavík +354 553 2155 | artmuseum.is Open: May—Sep | Daily 10-17 Oct—Apr | Daily 13-17

REYKJAVÍK ART MUSEUM HAFNARHÚS

Tryggvagata 17, 101 Reykjavík +354 590 1200 | artmuseum.is Open: Fri-Wed 10-17, Thu 10-20

REYKJAVÍK ART MUSEUM KJARVALSSTAÐIR

Flókagata, 105 Reykjavík +354 517 1290 | artmuseum.is Open: Daily 10-17

Grandagarði 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 1517 | sagamuseum.is Open: Apr—Sep | Daily 10-18 Oct—Mar | Daily 12-17

THE CULTURE HOUSE

Hverfisgata 15, Reykjavík 545-1400 | safnahusid.is Open: Daily 11-17

THE ICELANDIC PHALLOLOGICAL MUSEUM Laugavegur 116, 101 Reykjavík +354 561 6663 | phallus.is Open: Jun—Sep | Daily 10-18 Sep—May | Daily 11-18

GALLERY FOLD

Rauðarárstígur 12-14, 105 Reykjavík +354 551 0400 | myndlist.is

MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES

SAGA MUSEUM

GALLERY KOGGA CERAMIC-STUDIO Vesturgata 5, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 6036 | kogga.is

GALLERY KOLBRUN S. KJARVAL CERAMIC STUDIO Skólavörðustígur 22, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 1197

GALLERY LANA MATUSA ART CERAMCI STUDIO

Skólavörðustígur 41, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 5799 | svetlanamatusa.com

GALLERÍ LIST

GALLERIES 101 ART GALLERY

Hverfisgata 18b, 101 Reykjavík +354 511 6999 | 101hotel.is

7 FACTORY GALLERY

Bergstaðastræti 10, 101 Reykjavík +354 561 8193 | 7factory-design.com

CRAFTS AND DESIGN

Aðalstræti 10, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 7595 | handverkoghonnun.is

GALLERY 16C

Dalvegur 16C, 201 Kópavogur +354 896 6234 | facebook.com/ Gallery16c

GALLERY I8

Tryggvagata 16, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 3666 | i8.is

GALLERY ÁGÚST

Baldursgata 12, 101 Reykjavík +354 578 2100 | galleriagust.is

Skipholt 50a, 105 Reykjavík +354 581 4020 | gallerilist.is

GALLERY ÓFEIGUR

Skolavordustigur 5, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 1161 | ofeigur.is

GALLERY SHANKO SILKI

Skólavörðustígur 22c, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 0661 | shankosilk.com

GALLERY SMIÐAR OG SKART

Skólavörðustígur 16, 101 Reykjavík +354 561 4090

GALLERY STUDIO UMBRA

Lindargata 14, 101 Reykjavík +354 552 8889 | studioumbra.com

GALLERY TEXTILL

Lokastígur 28, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 3584 | textil.is

GALLERY TUKT

Pósthússtræti 3-5, 101 Reykjavík +354 411 5500 | hitthusid.is

WINING & DINING

WINING &

DINING

The impressively ambitious Reykjavík restaurant scene is a great example of the irrepressible energy of Icelanders. It’s always easy to find something great to eat; Icelandic ingredients, fresh and seasonal are at the forefront and the chefs of Reykjavík are always trying to think of new ways to prepare them, some simple and others more complex. We recommend trying everything from plokkfiskur (a fish and potatoes casserole) and kjötsúpa to the delicate Icelandic langoustine and the finest steaks of lamb, horse or beef. 51

Have you tried... New Nordic food, Icelandic style? For a long time, Icelandic food had a terrible reputation as it mostly consisted of boiling stuff (fish, potatoes, lamb, and so on). Then New Nordic happened. The delicious products of Icelandic nature are finally getting the attention and care they deserve and taste better than ever, especially when prepared by the food wizards of Dill restaurant.

Icelandic lamb? Icelandic lamb is in a league of its own. If you haven’t tried Icelandic lamb you haven’t lived.

Something adventurous? Reykjavík’s restaurants tend to have at least one dish that’s a bit less traditional, especially for foreign eyes. If you’ve never tried horse, whale, or puffin, now’s your chance! Plokkfiskur? Decidedly non-glamourous but consistently delicious, this fish and pototo stew is usually served with dark and sweet rye bread Kjötsúpa? Icelandic meat soup is essentially a clear broth with lamb and vegetables, but every Icelander has his own (or his mother’s) recipe.

Shark? You’ve probably heard of this one; despite its reputation (and the smell) the shark meat is neither rotten nor putrified, but rather fermented. Matur og Drykkur? Reykjavík’s coolest new shops and restaurants are the ones popping up in the old harbour area (Grandi). Matur og Drykkur is one of the most interesting ones, focusing on old Icelandic recipes and, updated for modern palates. The World Famous Hot Dog? The Icelandic hot dog is a cultural institution and it’s at its best served with “everything”, ketchup, mustard, remoulade and chopped onions, fresh and fried.

THE NEW LEGEND NEW VERSIONS OF THE ICELANDIC HOT DOG

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EATING OUT IN REYKJAVÍK One of the best things about travelling is eating in a foreign place. The tastes and smells of another country are often what stays with you long after you’ve forgotten everything you’ve learned at the museums. But finding something great to eat in a new place can often be difficult. Here are some helpful tips to remember when dining in Reykjavík if you want to make every meal count.

TRADITIONAL FOOD Traditional Icelandic food is usually centred around fish or lamb. There’s a fair share of dishes that owe their existence to a time before refrigeration; smoked, salted, and fermented food. Many of these dishes are an acquired taste, such as the famous fermented shark, and are usually only trotted out for special occasions, but others, such as harðfiskur (fish

jerky) or hangikjöt (smoked lamb) are delicious all year round. Then there are the slightly more modern classics, such as plokkfiskur (fish and potato casserole), fishballs (like meatballs, only made of fish), and kjötsúpa (clear-brothed lamb and vegetable soup). These are the dishes that are regularly cooked in most Icelandic homes and are available in some version at many of Reykjavík’s restaurants.

FINE DINING Fancy restaurants in Iceland are diverse and varied, but the overall quality is high. Since traditional Icelandic cooking is traditionally relatively simple (a lot of boiling), a popular way to approach modern Icelandic cuisine is to focus on the fresh and local, quality ingredients but seek inspiration from other parts of the world on how to prepare them, resulting in a melting pot of different influences. For instance, one of the most established restaurants in Reykjavík is a Tapas restaurant, but their most popular dish is Icelandic lamb in a liquorice sauce. Recently, restaurants like Dill and Matur og Drykkur, inspired by the new Nordic cuisine, have been making waves in the Icelandic restaurant scene, experimenting with unconventional Icelandic ingredients and rediscovering forgotten methods of cooking. Don’t be surprised to see unfamiliar ingredients on menus, such as whale, puffin, horse or even reindeer.

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VEGETARIAN/VEGAN

For less formal meals, there’s plenty of nice restaurants in Reykjavík that won’t break the bank but still serve delicious food. The city centre has a high concentration of bistros, cafés and gastropubs serving sandwiches, salads, soups and other delights, perfect for lunch or a light dinner. While Iceland is famous for its lack of McDonalds, we still have fast food chains, such as Subway, Domino’s and Dunkin’ Donuts, as well as a few of our own. Hamborgarabúllan restaurants serve great burgers and Serrano sell delicious Ice-Mex food, to name a few. Lemon, a juice and sandwich place and Local, a chain of salad bars, is perfect if you’re looking for a healthier option. Finally, Iceland has great sushi places in varying price ranges, perfect as this is one of the few places in the world that rivals Japan for access to fresh fish.

Due to the climate and the resulting difficulties of growing a bounty of vegetables, Icelandic cuisine through the centuries has been mostly animal-protein based. Nowadays, however, there’s a growing number of vegetarians, even vegans, and restaurants are responding to them. Most restaurants in Reykjavík have at least one meat-free dish on their menu, if not more, and they’re usually prepared to accommodate special requests, especially when notified in advance. There’s also an increasing number of restaurants, such as Gló, Krúska, Kaffi Vinyl, Garðurinn, and a few others that focus mostly or solely on vegetarian dishes. Self-catering is also an option, although it‘s possible that in supermarkets outside the city limits, the selection might be more limited.

WINING & DINING

LIGHT MEALS

RESTAURANT ETIQUETTE OF REYKJAVÍK • Reservations are recommended, especially for fine dining and especially for weekends and the summer season. • In bistros and cafés, reservations aren’t necessary, or even possible in some places, but it never hurts to ask, especially for larger groups. • Tipping is not the custom in Iceland and there is no service fee. If you want to reward exceptional service financially, that’s fine and no one will be offended, but it’s not required. • Icelandic tap water is not only safe; it tastes the same or even better than bottled water. • In Iceland, dinner time is usually around seven or eight pm. Upscale restaurant kitchens are usually open from six to ten or eleven pm and a little later on the weekends, although some are open longer.

“JUST TEN DROPS FOR ME, THANKS” Iceland is known for the Northern Lights, the midnight sun, glaciers and … coffee? Yes, really! The nordic nations are some of the biggest coffee drinkers in the world and Icelanders are no exception. The Icelanders‘ love of the magic beans is evident in the sheer number of cafés in Reykjavík. The first written documentation of coffee in Iceland is from the 18th century but it wasn‘t until the 19th cantury that it had become an everyday drink for the average Icelander. By the 20th century, coffee had become an integral part of every household and every farm in Iceland was roasting their own coffee beans and grinding them. Serving strong coffee and lots of it was a point of pride, especially since coffee beans were relatively expensive. Any offer of coffee was likely to be met with a polite “sure, just ten drops, please”.

In 1958, Café Mokka opened its doors on Skólavörðustígur. It was a turning point in Iceland’s coffee culture, as it was the first café in Reykjavík to serve Italian-style espresso drinks. Today, of course, most cafés have a large gleaming espressomaker, although some coffee aficionados swear by the more traditional methods of brewing. Speaking of Italian-style coffee drinks, the caffé latté is surprisingly controversial in Iceland, in some ways as a direct result of café Mokka. Mokka has, ever since it opened, allowed artists to display their works on the walls. It became synonymous with the experimental, modern art of the time and caused a rift between the image of the hardworking, drip-brewed coffee-drinking farmer and the cerebral, latté-sipping artist. Whichever group you identify more with, coffee in Iceland, whether it’s in the morning, afternoon or after dinner, is highly recommended.

COFFEE AND SOMETHING WITH IT

Coffee is good and everything, but coffee and something sweet to go with it is even better! Traditional Icelandic pastries like kleinur (a cardamom-flavoured twisted donut) pönnukökur (crèpe-like pancakes served either plain with sugar or stuffed with whipped cream and jam) or waffles are delicious but most cafés also serve slices of Hnallþóra (fancy cakes) that go great with a cup of coffee.

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GOING OUT IN ICELAND:

BEER, BARS AND BOOZE The Reykjavík nightlife is famous, even infamous, depending on your point of view. While Icelanders have always known how to party, the Reykjavík bar scene has done a lot of growing up in the last few years, with several specialty beer bars opening up, as well as ambitious cocktail bars, serving up delicious concoctions.

BARS Whether you want to have a beer in the afternoon, head out for a drink in the evening, or dance till the morning comes, the liveliest bar scene in Reykjavík is in the city centre, on and around Laugavegur and Austurstræti. Many bars double as cafés and bistros (and even triple as venues for concerts and other events), simply turning up the music as the night progresses. Closing times differ depending on the atmosphere of each

drinking establishment but the rule of thumb is that bars have to close at 1 am on weekdays and 4.30 on the weekends. The most popular drink is beer and there’s plenty of good beer to be had, but Reykjavík is also having a cocktail renaissance, with several ambitious cocktail bars opening up.

BEER Believe it or not, but beer was banned in Iceland for most of the 20th century. It was legalised 1st of march in 1989, a date which is now the unofficial holiday of Beer Day! Ever since that fateful day in 1989, Icelanders have been making up for lost time and beer is now the most popular alcoholic beverage in Iceland. Perhaps more importantly, Icelanders also started brewing their own (delicious) beer. In the past few years, microbreweries have been popping up as well and specialty beer

as Black Death) but in fact it can actually be considered an aquavit and much like its Scandinavian cousins, can be quite pleasantly sipped with smorrebrod. It’s distilled from potatoes and flavoured with caraway seed. Apart from the traditional brennivín, new creations, like liqueurs made with Icelandic blueberries, crowberries and rhubarb, even birch, are inspiring bar tenders all over Reykjavík and Icelandic gin, vodka, even whiskey, is being produced. Reyka vodka in particular has a lot of admirers from all over the world. Finally, Icelanders are liquorice BOOZE Í SLEN SKhasn’t I BAR INN RE YKJAV lovers 1A and if101 you shareÍKthat love, be Icelandic liquor, which really INGÓL F SSTRÆTI sure to check out vodka-based www.islenskibarinn.is postur@islenskibarinn.is sími:the 517 6767 been known for finesse through Ópal and Tópas shots, available at the years, is also being reinvented. most bars in Reykjavík. Brennivín, the most famous Icelandic liquor, gets a bad rap (it’s also known

WINING & DINING

bars have opened up. Have a Kaldi beer at the Kaldi bar downtown or stop by Microbar and taste some of their extensive selection of microbrews. Einstök beer is good and widely available and the small-batch brews of Borg brewery are always interesting. Danish brewery Mikkeller runs a beer bar with several of their most delectable products for sale and Bryggjan brewery is a restaurant/bar/ brewery where the beer is made on site!

Fish • Lamb • Whale • Icelandic cuisine with a twist Icelandic music and nightlife Mix with the locals . .and all the Icelandic beers in one awsome place!

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DAY TOURS, ACTIVITIES AND ADVENTURES

DAY TOURS

& ACTIVITIES FROM REYKJAVÍK Reykjavík is a great city and we wholeheartedly recommend spending some time there… just not all your time. Icelandic nature is spectacular, with erupting hot springs, majestic glaciers and thundering waterfalls, all within a few hours’ drive from the city. There’s so much to do, see and experience, it would be a shame to miss it. 63

INTERESTING PLACES AND ACTIVITIES NEARBY REYKJAVÍK 7 90

60 km

9 30 km

30 km

11 14

12 6

1 WHALE WATCHING

8 DEILDARTUNGUHVER

2 BLUE LAGOON

9 GLYMUR WATERFALL

3 ÞINGVELLIR

10 SECRET LAGOON

4 GULLFOSS

11 LAUGARVATN FONTANA

5 GEYSIR

12 REYKJADALUR VALLEY

6 KRÝSUVÍK

13 FÁKASEL HORSE PARK

7 HRAUNFOSSAR/ BARNAFOSS

14 SKÁLHOLT

Golden circle Super truck tour & snowmobiling

Tel. (+354) 580 9900 ice@mountaineers.is | www.mountaineers.is

Your Ticket to Adventure

A DAY FROM REYKJAVÍK:

THE GOLDEN CIRCLE

This is the most popular day tour in Iceland and for good reason. Not only do you get to see some of the most amazing natural and historical wonders of Iceland, it’s also a convenient distance from Reykjavík. The Golden Circle is a 300 km loop that opens and closes in Reykjavík. It covers three main locations: Þingvellir National Park, the waterfall Gullfoss and the erupting geyser Strokkur in Haukadalur.

ÞINGVELLIR Þingvellir (pronounced thing-vet-leer) is a historical and geological marvel. Situated right where the tectonic plates separate, the rift between continents is clearly visible in the dramatic cliffs on either side of the valley. This makes for stunning landscapes, with cascading waterfalls, majestic cliffs, and fissures, filed with icy blue, clear water. Þingvellir are of great historical importance as well. For centuries, it was the meeting place of the Icelandic parliament, founded in 930. It was at Þingvellir that the Icelandic chieftains decided that Icelanders would convert to Christianity, it was where they decided to give up their independence in 1262 and where they declared independence from Denmark seven centuries later.

Þingvellir

GULLFOSS Next up is Gullfoss waterfell (Icelandic for golden waterfall). It’s a magnificent reminder of the awe-inspiring power of nature, with a huge amount of water thundering down into a jagged canyon. The power of the waterfall was enticing to 66 entrepreneurs in the early 20th century,

Þingvellir

south of Iceland. Go swimming in a warm pool surrounded by nature, go snowmobiling on a glacier or have a delicious langoustine dinner in a tiny fishing village by the shore.

GEYSIR Haukadalur valley is a geothermally active area as is clearly noticeable at our next stop, the Geysir area. Geysir is an erupting hot spring (it’s actually the erupting hot spring, lending its name to geysers around the world) although these days it doesn’t do a lot of erupting. It’s neighbour, Strokkur, however, gladly puts on a show every 8-10 minutes, in an impressive spectacle of a burst of hot water. The area also has several pools of water ranging in temperature from too-hot-to-touch to boil-you-alive-inseconds, some bubbling, others still and impossibly clear. After Geysir, it’s time to head back to Reykjavík, or continue exploring the

DAY TOURS, ACTIVITIES AND ADVENTURES

and plans were made to harness it and convert it to electricity. Fortunately, there were people that spoke up and protested against destroying such an impressive natural wonder, one of them even going so far as to threaten to throw herself in the waterfall. The State of Iceland acquired the waterfall in 1940 and it has been on the state preservation list since 1979.

Geysir

A DAY FROM REYKJAVÍK:

THE BEAUTIFUL SOUTH COAST The south coast is one of the most popular places for a sightseeing day tour from Reykjavík. The area has a high concentration of diverse natural phenomena, with long stretches of black sand beaches and deserts, verdant farming communities, striking mountains, glaciers, waterfalls and so on. The road south from Reykjavík, passes the Hellisheiði heath, where you can stop at the Hellisheiði power plant and geothermal energy exhibition and tour the plant. From the heath you will travel down into the valley around Hveragerði, a town built on a geothermal hot spot. There are columns of steam rising up from the ground, a clear sign of the geothermal heat underground, there’s even a restaurant called Kjöt & Kúnst there which cooks food with the steam from the ground! Moving on, you’ll drive past amazing mountains and valleys along the coastline until you get to the magical Seljalandsfoss waterfall which falls in the mouth of a cave so that you can walk

Reynisfjara

the whole way around it. Close by is the Iceland Erupts exhibition, a memorial to the 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajökull which halted all air transport in Europe for a while. This is followed by Skógafoss, an even larger, more powerful waterfall, right by the tiny community of Skógar, which has a fascinating local museum and a couple of hotels. This is also where the mountain trail of Fimmvörðuháls starts off, though you should be careful to check the conditions and get advice before the hike. Further along is the town of Vík, where you can walk along the Reynisfjara black-sand beach with a view over

Seljalandsfoss

vík r 11 Reykja Laugavegu Reykjavík Kringlan 7

GLACIER HIKING the strange rock formations of the coast. (IMPORTANT: Stay far away from the water, the rip tide is EXTREMELY dangerous and tourists have drowned because they weren’t careful enough). Katla and Eyjafjallajökull volcanoes and Mýrdalsjökull glacier watch over the south coast of Iceland and you could easily throw in a hike or a guided tour of the glacier to spice up your journey. If you decide to do that, just be careful and take precautions, ask advice, always let someone know where you’re going, keep your phone charged, bring warm clothes and make sure you have good shoes!

You shouldn’t leave Iceland without experiencing the wonders of its glaciers. Glacier hiking is the best way to get up close and personal with one of Iceland’s many elements. Visiting the glaciers under the guidance of a professional glacier guide is a safe way to explore the rugged ice crevasses, sink holes, jagged ridges, ice walls and amazing ice formations. Whether it’s glacier hiking on Europe’s biggest glacier Vatnajökull, at Jules Verne’s centre of the earth, Snæfellsjökull, or the ash-covered Sólheimajökull – glacier hiking is a must.

THE GLACIAL LAGOON ON THE SOUTH COAST

The otherworldly Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon, surrounded by black sand, is a sight well worth the trip. The ice cold water is filled with icebergs that have broken off the vast Vatnajökull glacier, the largest glacier in Europe. The blue and black chunks of ice look great from afar, but even better up close, so a boat tour of the lagoon is recommended.

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REYKJANES PENINSULA The Reykjanes peninsula is the first thing most people see when they visit Iceland. While the road from Keflavík is long-maligned as the most uninteresting part of Iceland, Reykjanes contains a host of interesting attractions and beautiful nature that’s too often overlooked by travellers. The peninsula landscape is dramatic, with endless lava fields and mountains in the distance, geothermal areas and cute little villages. Starting out from Reykjavík, you’ll drive through the town of Hafnarfjörður, the home of the Viking Village. After a short stop there, we recommend leaving the main road to Keflavík and heading through the lava fields towards Kleifarvatn, a beautiful lake and a perfect place for a walk if the weather is nice. This way leads you to Krýsuvík, a geothermal hot spot where you’ll find numerous bubbling mud pools and steaming fumaroles. From here, you might head east to Strandakirkja church, which according to legend was built by a sailor who stranded just off the coast but was rescued by an angel on the promise he would build a church where he washed ashore.

After this, travelling west along the peninsula and passing through Grindavík, you can stop by the Gunnuhver fumarole, where legend has it the murderous ghost Gunna was lured by a priest with a ball of yarn. In the same area you can visit Reykjanesviti lighthouse and walk along the dramatic rocky coastline, with a view over the unique island Eldey. Traveling north from here, stop by the bridge between the continents at Sandvík before passing through Keflavík on your way to relax in the Blue Lagoon spa on your way back to the city.

The Blue Lagoon

THE BLUE LAGOON

The luxurious Blue Lagoon spa is one of the most recognized landmarks in Iceland. What most people don’t know is that the characteristic turquoise blue waters are in fact the result of a happy accident. While drilling for hot water, a way opened for naturally hot water from deep underground, to flow to the surface. The underground water, naturally rich in minerals, mixed with cold seawater, creating a pool of milky blue water of the perfect temperature for bathing. Since the water keep streaming from underneath the ground, the water is completely replenished every 40 hours, making chemical cleaners unnecessary, keeping the water naturally clean.

A DAY FROM REYKJAVÍK:

CMY

A DAY FROM REYKJAVÍK:

BORGARNES & WEST OF ICELAND If the crowds on the south coast and the Golden Circle are not your thing, a tour of the west of Iceland might be just the ticket. The area has its share of natural wonders, with majestic waterfalls and deep lava caves, but it also has a rich historical heritage. It’s the setting of some of the most famous sagas of the Icelanders. About an hour north of Reykjavík is Borgarnes, a charming little town with all basic facilities; restaurants, swimming pool and of course, museums: the Settlement Centre – a museum about the Viking times in the area, and the Borgarnes museum, with permanent exhibitions focussed on children’s lives through the 20th century and the birds of Iceland. In the Borgarfjörður area is Deildartunguhver, the most powerful hot spring in Europe. You can see boiling hot water come straight up from the ground, powerfully bubbling and steaming. A little further along, are Hraunfossar, the Lava Waterfalls. These are remarkable – the waterfall comes straight out from underneath a solid cliff! This is because

the glacial water flows underneath the lava field for many miles without seeing the light of day. A short walk from here is the chance to witness the amazing force of the waterfall Barnafoss. Víðgelmir, Iceland’s biggest lava cave by volume, is a lava tube formed during a volcanic eruption, when the magma started to cool on the surface, but there was still a hot “river” of magma flowing beneath it. Then the magma flow stopped, leaving a hollow cave beneath the cool crust on the surface. Nearby Surtshellir, similar in nature, is Iceland’s longest lava cave. Finally, if you’re travelling with a specially outfitted vehicle and guide, you can kick the adrenaline into gear and drive onto Langjökull glacier, where summer never comes. If you’re particularly adventurous, you can even travel Into the Glacier, in a recently opened man-made glacier cave, equipped with a chapel, bar and movie theatre. If you want a longer day, skip the tunnel under Hvalfjörður bay and take the scenic route back to Reykjavík. There, you can see the old whaling station, visit a museum dedicated to Iceland’s occupation during World War II as well as a working farm or even hike to the tallest waterfall in Iceland, Glymur.

A RARE, ONCE-INA-LIFETIME OPPORTUNITY Around, on and deep within the awesome Langjökull ice gap glacier. Into the Glacier offers various tours to the World's largest ice tunnel. The ice tunnel and caves are located high on Iceland’s second largest glacier, Langjökull. Daily departures from Klaki base camp, Húsafell center and from Reykjavik.

You can choose from various tours and book online at www.intotheglacier.is Tel: +354 578-2550

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ACTIVITIES FROM REYKJAVÍK Reykjavík and the surrounding area offer a multitude of activities as well as standard day tours. Many of these activities can be added onto the tours, making for a fuller day with more than just enjoying the breathtaking nature, while other require a longer time or more dedication. Then there are even a few things that you can do on a whim, and don’t even have to take too much time! Whatever it is, you can trust that there’ll be plenty of things to do!

SNORKELLING AND DIVING IN SILFRA Snorkelling – it’s not just for the tropics anymore! Good news for everyone, from experienced divers to novice adventure-seekers; the fissure Silfra is not only a world class diving location but ideal for snorkelling tours unlike anything you have seen before. The crystal clear water offers over 100 meters of visibility so those not experienced enough for diving can

easily enjoy this hidden gem. The location offers the chance of floating along the fissure and seeing first-hand the amazing world underneath ours. Silfra is also a world renowned diving site, for those who want to experience it full-force and have the necessary permits! A number of tour operators offer day tours in this location all year.

DAY TOURS, ACTIVITIES AND ADVENTURES

HORSEBACK RIDING Not only is Iceland’s breed of steed a horse of a different colour, it’s a horse of an entirely different genetic make-up. Having been bred in almost perfect isolation for over 1000 years, the Icelandic horse is unique in many respects. They are relatively small (if you fall, you won’t fall far) and notably well-tempered, though they are probably most famous for their unusual fifth gait: the tölt. Tölt is a way of walking unique to the Icelandic horse, which keeps the rider stable while manoeuvring easily over Iceland’s uneven landscape.

CAVING Underneath the mountains and lava fields is an incredible subterranean realm that just begs to be discovered. Iceland has 500 known lava caves, a mere 5% of the estimated total of 10.000. Exploring these caves is a great way to experience first-hand how the land formed from the molten lava, cooling and freezing time forever. It’s a great adventure and everyone should try it!

WHALES, PUFFINS AND SEA ANGLING

traveler: the hills and mountains normally only accessible to off-road vehicles.

The ocean surrounding Iceland is a fantastic place to go Whale Watching. The most frequently seen cetaceans are minke and humpback whales and watching these giant creatures is an amazing experience. It’s also easy to take a dedicated Puffin Watching tour, which takes you out to the puffin colonies of the islands outside Reykjavík in the season, from mid-May to mid-August. Finally, if you’d rather taste the inhabitants of the sea than look at them, Sea Angling boat tours abound at the Old Harbour in Reykjavík.

ICELAND’S VOLCANOES: ABOVE, ON TOP OF OR UNDER

ATVS IN ALL TERRAINS! ATVs, four-wheelers, quad bikes… whatever you call them, they’re guaranteed to keep you entertained! Just a stone’s throw outside Reykjavík, you can take your road-rage to the lava fields where these powerful machines eat up the terrain. Quad bikes open up a world that’s normally hidden from the average

Iceland is one of the most volcanically active places on earth with more than 30 active volcanoes. The most famous one of these is probably Mt. Eyjafjallajökull, which temporarily halted Europe’s air traffic in 2010. Other notable volcanoes include Hekla, widely held to be the entrance to Hell in the middle ages, and Bárðarbunga, which erupted in 2014. There is a great abundance of Super Jeep Excursions, Scenic Flights and Helicopter Tours which will take the curious out to these wonders of nature to enjoy their raw power and grotesque beauty. Last but not least there is Þríhnúkagígur, the only place on earth you can go inside an empty volcano.

GEOTHERMAL POWERPLANTS The columns of steam rising from the geothermal plants at Nesjavellir and Hellisheiði are a magnificent sight. You can actually take a tour of the Geothermal Energy Exhibition at Hellisheiði, a state-of-the-art geothermal power plant. The plant shows how geothermal energy is harnessed in a sustainable manner in Iceland, a showcase for the rest of the world. The area is also an excellent hiking and outdoor destination with trails which vary in length and difficulty and trail maps in place on site.

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ICELAND’S GLACIERS The surface of Iceland is 11% Glacier. Iceland is home to the largest ice cap in Europe, Vatnajökull, in addition to other formidable ones such as Langjökull, Mýrdalsjökull and Snæfellsjökull. You can barely go anywhere in Iceland without spotting one of these ivory behemoths in the distance, but if you want to get up close and personal, there’s no better way than a guided Glacier Hike, Ice Climbing, Glacial Snowmobiling Excursion or even a unique tour Into the Glacier. Don’t try to go on a glacier without a certified guide!

FOOD & CULTURE TOURS Iceland’s cuisine is unique and fascinating. Smoked, cured, dried, salted – meat, fish or bread, there are many unusual and delicious combinations to choose from. One great way to experience this is by taking a guided Food Tour which samples the different flavours of the local cuisine in chosen locations. Smoked lamb is delicious and dried fish chips will surprise you, but the fermented shark and accompanying shot of brennivín schnapps is an acquired taste!

CITY TOURS Reykjavík is a fantastic little city, different from other capitals of Europe. There are many guided tours of different kinds – paid or unpaid – which focus on major sights, culture and history, the city’s less-known secrets or even good places to party. There are tours on foot, bike or Segway, to name just a few. Keep your eyes peeled for the tour that appeals to you or just turn over to page 94 for some of our self-guided walking tours.

JEEP TOURS Iceland’s rugged and untamed nature can be hard to navigate in a regular vehicle. This is why you will see so many

modified Super Jeeps around, capable of traversing un-bridged rivers, drive up on mountains and generally get around without roads. It’s easy to take such a tour up onto volcanoes and glaciers, into the untouched wilderness of the highlands, or to caves, waterfalls and other inaccessible natural phenomena.

SCENIC FLIGHT TOURS There’s nothing like taking scenic flights by plane or helicopter over the grand vistas of Icelandic nature. You get to experience natural wonders that aren’t easily accessible by land, get the bird’seye view of mountains, glaciers and waterfalls, all in just a fraction of the time it would take you to make the trip by car. Whether you take a scenic flight or a helicopter tour, it’s going to give you a unique sense of the scale and power of this wild and untamed land.

SNOWMOBILING For those who aren’t content to just look at this island’s magnificent nature, one of the most exciting ways you can experience it first-hand is snowmobiling on a glacier. These adventure excursions will take you on an adrenaline filled ride while allowing you to experience the glacial landscapes in a unique and wonderful way.

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THINGS TO DO IN REYKJAVIK

THINGS TO DO

IN AND AROUND

REYKJAVÍK

Reykjavík and the surrounding towns, are home to two thirds of Iceland’s population of 330.000. This city is vibrant and bubbling with artistic creativity, rich with history and at the same time very close to nature. Whether you’re visiting landmarks like Hallgrímskirkja church, Harpa concert hall and city hall, bathing in Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach or enjoying some of the local parks and nature reserves, one thing is certain – you won’t be bored in Reykjavík! 85

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THINGS TO DO IN REYKJAVIK

RED PATH HISTORICAL SITES Duration: About 2.5 hours with refreshment stops. Distance: 1.6 km/1 mile.

[1] REYKJAVÍK’S OLDEST STREET

Excavations on Aðalstræti street have revealed ruins dating back to Viking era, when the first settlers came to Iceland. In 1752, the enterprising Constable Skúli Magnússon, often called the father of Reykjavík, decided it should be a site for various factory

workshops called the “Innréttingar,” which eventually grew into the core of what we now call downtown Reykjavík.

[2] THE OLDEST TIMBER BUILDING Aðalstræti 10 is considered the city’s oldest timber house. In olden times it was the residence of Bishop Geir Vídalín (1761-1823), whose hospitality was infamous, to say the least. He was so generous that he became bankrupt and a committee had to be formed to control his finances.

[3] THE FALCON HOUSE

[2]

On the corner of Hafnarstræti and Aðalstræti you’ll find the Falcon House. Icelandic Falcons (Falco Rusticolus) were kept in a house on this site before being shipped to buyers overseas, namely European aristocracy. Statues of falcons adorn the house today reminding us of its former role.

[2] [4] THE HOUSE OF PARLIAMENT

While Iceland’s Alþingi might be the world’s oldest living parliament (founded in 930 AD it predates Great Britain’s parliament by 777 years, the US Congress by 851 years and Russia’s Duma by 976 years), Iceland’s House of Parliament was only built in 1881. Before this time the Alþingi assembled outdoors at Thingvellir National Park.

[5] GOSSIP LEDGE

[8] GOVERNMENT HOUSE

Completed in 1771, this was Iceland’s first proper prison, designed to hold 16 felons and 54 misdemeanants—serving as such until 1816. Today it houses the Prime Minister’s Office and serves as the meeting place for the state council consisting of Iceland’s 12 ministers. Some like to say that while they closed the prison, the criminals still haven’t left the building.

On the corner of Skólavörðustígur and Bergstaðastræti is a place called “Gossip Ledge”. In olden times it was customary for people in Reykjavík to gather here and swap gossip. The party has since been moved to the Reykjavík city hot tubs, where all of Iceland’s most important discussions are had.

[6] THE PUNISHMENT HOUSE

One of the city’s oldest buildings is the Hegningarhúsið jail (literally, “The Punishment House”) built in 1874. At the time it was considered a humane alternative to physical punishment but by the time the 21st century rolled around, its lack of a gym and a cafeteria, among other shortcomings, rendered it outdated. It still functioned as a prison until very recently, spring 2016.

[5]

[7] LAUGAVEGUR

Now crowded with boutiques and cafés, Laugavegur wasn’t always so glamorous. The street gained its name (Lauga+vegur = pool+road) from the washerwomen who would tread through the mud carrying heavy loads of laundry down to the geothermal pools in Laugadalur valley.

[6]

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THINGS TO DO IN REYKJAVIK

[1]

BLUE PATH PARKS AND STATUES Duration: About 4.5 hours with refreshment stops. Distance: 3.2 km/2 miles.

[1] AUSTURVÖLLUR PARK

Arguably the true heart of the city, Austurvöllur is where the locals flock to soak up the sun when the weather is nice. It’s also where the locals gather to hurl skyr at parliament and bang pots and pans in protest when they’re not happy with the government.

[2] JÓN SIGURÐSSON

(1811-1879) Born June 17, 1811, Jón Sigurðsson became the beloved leader of Iceland’s struggle for independence and separation from Danish rule in the 19th century. In commemoration for his efforts Iceland celebrates its independence day on Jón’s birthday. You’ll also find this handsome fellow on the 500 kr. note. Sculptor: Einar Jónsson

[4] SKÚLI MAGNÚSSON

(1711-1794) Although many Icelanders cringe at the idea of bringing heavy industry to Iceland today, it was Sheriff Skúli Magnússon, dubbed the “Father of Reykjavík,” who first brought factory production to Reykjavík with the so-called “Innréttingar” industrial workshops. Sculptor: Guðmundur Einarsson

[3] TRYGGVAGARÐUR GARDEN

Named after Tryggvi Gunnarsson (1835 – 1917), a renowned entrepreneur and prime minister of Iceland, this garden dates back to 1893. It’s known as a place where the nation’s leaders come to make important decisions, since it’s located directly behind the House of Parliament.

[4]

[7] [5] FÓGETAGARÐURINN PARK

The site of Reykjavík’s first cemetery dating back to the time of Iceland’s settlement, used for over 800 years. It is believed to contain the remains of 30 generations of Icelanders. Spreading its limbs across the park is Reykjavík’s oldest tree: A rowan tree dating back to 1884.

[6] HÓLAVALLAGARÐUR CEMETERY

[10] PAVILION PARK

(Hljómskálagarðurinn) With a cinderellalike rags-to-riches transformation, what used to by the city dump for the most part of the 19th century is now a popular place to picnic by the lakeside. The park is named for the octagonal, tower-like structure, built in 1923 to house the Reykjavík marching band.

The green space on the west side of the pond is a cemetery. It was first used in 1838 and for a long time it was the main cemetery of Reykjavík. It isn’t used anymore, but is a nice place for a walk on a sunny day.

[7] THE LAKESIDE

The past meets the present on the banks of lake Tjörnin where Reykjavík’s modern palace of a city hall is flanked by some of the city’s loveliest houses from the turn of the century on both sides of the lake.

[8] BJARKARGATA GROVE

[8]

In 1914 there were 400 birch trees planted on this spot, marking Iceland’s first concerted effort towards reforesting the island. As you might have noticed, we still have a long way to go.

[9] BERTEL THORVALDSEN

(1770-1844) The humble son of an Icelandic woodcarver settled in Denmark and became one of the most sought after sculptors in Europe, working for royalty, aristocrats and renowned collectors. 92 Sculptor: Bertel Thorvaldssen

[9]

Reykjavik

Est. 2012

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[11] [11] JÓNAS HALLGRÍMSSON

(1807-1845) If the pen is mightier than the sword, then this man was a Sherman tank. His sweeping romantic poetry on Icelandic nature and beauty coincided with the nation’s battle for independence. In fact, many consider his words to be one of the driving forces behind Icelanders insistence on independence from the Danish crown. Sculptor: Einar Jónsson

[12] COURT GARDEN

(Hallargarðurinn) Originally a private garden, in 1955 it became the first large recreation area in Iceland to be specifically designed by a landscape architect. The building in the park was built by famed businessman Thor Jensen and is by many considered among the most beautiful houses in Reykjavík.

[13] MOTHERS’ PARK

(Mæðragarðurinn) One of the city’s first playgrounds. In 1925 the area was declared a public park and dedicated to mothers with young children, hence the statue of mother with child. The statue is by famed Icelandic sculptor Nína Sæmundsson, whose work “the Spirit of Achievement” also adorns the Park Avenue entrance to the Waldorf Astoria in New York.

[16] appointed to the Danish Cabinet as the Minister for Icelandic Affairs, and later, Iceland’s first prime minister. He was also a poet and, perhaps fittingly for an Icelander, his most famous poem is a loving ode to the storm. Sculptor: Einar Jónsson

[15] INGÓLFSBREKKA HILL

Probably one of the best-preserved sections of old Reykjavík’s landscape. In 1806, it marked the eastern boundary of the city.

[16] KING CHRISTIAN IX

Ruled Denmark from 1863 to 1906, known as the “Grandfather of Europe” as many of his descendants married into other royal houses. In 1874, he issued a new constitution for Iceland, a compromise between Iceland’s demand for sovereignty and Denmark’s interest in maintaining the monarchy. Sculptor: Einar Jónsson.

[14] HANNES HAFSTEIN

(1861-1922). In 1904, Hannes, a farmer’s

94 son, became he the first Icelander to be

[12]

[20] [19] LEIF THE LUCKY

[19] [17] ARNARHÓLL HILL

This grassy hill in the middle of the city has narrowly escaped building plans through the years. It’s always been left alone and serves as a gathering spot for the city on celebrations such as June 17th and the Gay pride festival.

[18] INGÓLFUR ARNARSON

Christopher Columbus who? Icelanders will happily explain that it was their own Leifur Eiríksson who discovered America some 600 years before Columbus. As a “thanks for finding us” present to Iceland, America gave the nation this heroic statue of the Leif the Lucky, which now perches on the highest hill in downtown Reykjavík. Sculptor: Alexander S. Calder.

[20] EINAR JÓNSSON SCULPTURE GARDEN

Behind the Einar Jónsson Museum is a garden exhibiting casts of Einar’s sculptures. The fierce Icelandic national spirit is captured in these boldly rendered, allegorical figures.

According to Iceland’s Book of Settlement, the first permanent settler, Ingólfur Arnarson, threw his two wooden chieftain poles overboard, believing that wherever they washed ashore was where he was fated to build his settlement, which later became Reykjavík. Archaeological excavations at Aðalstræti and Suðurgata streets have revealed evidence of an ancient settlement that supports this story. Sculptor: Einar Jónsson.

[18]

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OPEN i ng SUMMER 2016

Hákon Már Örvarsson, a Bronze medalist at the prestigious Bocuse d'Or competition in Lyon, France and former Chef of the year in Iceland, invites you to visit his two restaurants in downtown Reykjavík: Essensia and Kitchen & Wine.

“I bring my lifelong passion for cooking to these two beautiful but diﬀerent restaurants. Sourcing the best available ingredients, I pour my heart into each dish and, along with my staﬀ, wish to create a top class food and wine experience in an enjoyable, casual atmosphere.

”

Gourmet bistro-style restaurant and bar, located at the chic 101 hotel, emphasizing local sourced ingredients and hand made cocktails. Langoustine specialities, catch of the day, lamb. Lounge-Bar-Restaurant. Hverfisgata 8-10, 101 Reykjavík, +354 580 0103 – kitchenandwine.is

REYKJAVÍK ON TWO WHEELS While biking culture in Reykjavík isn’t as prevalent as its continental counterparts like Copenhagen and Amsterdam, it’s becoming more popular, both as a hobby and as a way of transportation. The city has plenty of green spaces and there’s plenty of wilderness as well, just outside the city limits.

HEAVEN ON WHEELS

Most cyclists are drawn to the less busy paths outside of Reykjavík’s centre. There are a number of paths along the coast that will take you around the Seltjarnarnes peninsula, such as Sæbraut to the north and Ægissíða to the south. Another popular area is Elliðaárdalur valley, a lush, green nature preserve centred around the Elliðavatn lake and the streams that run from it along the valley. If you really feel like getting lost in the great outdoors, then hit the much larger Heiðmörk wilderness preserve next to Elliðaárdalur. The cycling path brings you all sorts of landscapes from evergreen forests (a rarity in Iceland, you might have noticed) to scrub and lava fields.

IN THE CITY…

Bikes are a great way to get around Reykjavík and to get to know the city. Be aware that many drivers are not used to sharing the road with cyclists, so take care. The city has made enormous strides in introducing bike lanes, and you can also 98 bike on sidewalks, walking paths and the

street, as long as you don’t interfere with traffic or pedestrians. Bike tours are organized year round (bikes and helmets provided) where you’ll get beyond the city centre to discover some of the city’s extensive green spaces. If you’re up for a real adventure, rent a scooter to zoom along the coast and the wilderness on the outskirts of town.

BICYCLING TOUR ACROSS THE CAPITAL

Start out by the charming old harbour of Reykjavík and head toward City Hall to look at the huge topographical map of Iceland inside. Next, ride along the coast to Nauthólsvík bay, the only artificially heated beach in the world. Then pedal up Öskjuhlíð hill, a great lookout spot, to see the city in panorama. There’s also a replica of the Geysir hot spring on the way. Next, stop for some refreshments at a café near Reykjavík’s iconic Hallgrímskirkja church, and then circle back to end up at the harbour where you started. Altogether this trip should take about 3-4 hours and is also available as a guided tour.

www.reykjaviksegwaytours.com Segway tours in Reykjavik. Scheduled tours in summer every day at 13:00, and private tours available all year. Call/text Stefan: + (354) 897 2790.

www.reykjavikbiketours.com Bicycle tours all year, RENT-A-BIKE, morning tours, evening tours, bicycle and van combination - Golden circle and more. Call/ text Ursula & Stefan: + (354) 694 8956.

NAUTHÓLSVÍK More often than not, Icelandic beaches, with their jet-black sand and lethal rip tides, have nothing in common with their counterparts closer to the equator. The goldensanded geothermal beach at Nauthólsvík in Reykjavík is the exception that proves the rule; a little piece of paradise. The North-Atlantic Ocean around Iceland is much too cold to bathe in, but we do have an impressive amount of geothermal energy. Some enterprising minds saw a possibility in our situation and the Nauthólsvík geothermal beach was opened in 2001 to the delight of residents and tourists alike. The creation of the geothermal beach was an ambitious project involving the construction of a lagoon with large

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sea walls, where cold sea and hot geothermal water blend together for the perfect temperature. The locals have welcomed this chance to bathe in the ocean and still avoid hypothermia and on sunny days, the beach fills up with people of all ages enjoying the warm water. The main objective of creating the geothermal beach was to establish the bay of Nauthólsvík as a diverse outdoor area and haven for recreational activities, such as sunbathing, swimming and sailing. No matter the season, there are people enjoying the use of the hot-tubs, steambath and changing facilities and showers, even when the water drops below freezing.

SEA SWIMMING

One activity in particular has become surprisingly popular all year round; sea-swimming. Cold-water swimming might sound crazy, especially in a country like Iceland, however this extreme activity dates all the way back to the age of settlement. The oldest recorded sea-swimming feat was performed in the year 1030, when Grettir Ásmundarson (of Icelandic Saga legend) swam a distance of 7km across a bay in North Iceland to the island of Drangey.

BEAUTIFUL FOOD

IN BEAUTIFUL SURROUNDINGS enjoy nature and fresh food in the capital's most popular recreational area

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VIÐEY AND THE PEACE TOWER Enjoy a short trip with the Elding ferry service to the lovely island of Viðey, situated in Kollafjörður just off the coast of Reykjavík. Apart from its ancient ruins and rich historical background, other attractions include impressive works of art by Yoko Ono (the Imagine Peace Tower) and Richard Serra (the Milestones project). Fans of architecture will also be interested to learn that the church in Viðey is one of the oldest in the country and that Viðey House is the first building in the country to be constructed with stone. With an extensive network of paths and a population of lovely resident horses, the island can be explored both on foot and on horseback. No matter which path you take, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the surrounding mainland, and on a clear day you’ll be able to see the impressive outline of the Snæfellsnes peninsula.

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In summertime, there are daily ferry departures both from Skarfabakki pier and Ægisgardur harbour, by the Harpa concert hall. The winter service runs on Saturdays and Sundays from Skarfabakki to Viðey. Note that trips to Viðey are free with the Reykjavík City Card.

IMAGINE PEACE TOWER The Imagine Peace Tower is a work of art that represents a beacon of world peace by the legendary artist, musician and peace advocate, Yoko Ono. The work is designed in the form of a wishing well from which a powerful tower of light beams. The words IMAGINE PEACE are inscribed on the well in 24 different languages. The light tower is composed of a number of individual lights that join together to form a single beam. Six of the lights travel through corridors across a platform that surrounds the well and are reflected upwards to the sky with mirrors. An additional nine lights shine

straight up to the sky, strengthening the tower of light. The strength, intensity and brilliance of the light tower continually change as particles in the air fluctuate with the changing weather and atmospheric conditions unique to Iceland. The inauguration of the IMAGINE PEACE TOWER took place during a private ceremony on 9 October 2007 on Viðey Island, Reykjavík, Iceland. The artwork was dedicated to the memory of John Lennon on what would have been his 67th birthday.

Since then, it lights up the evening sky annually from 9th October to 8th December. It is also lit during the winter solstice for one week, on New Year’s Eve and on Spring Equinox for one week. The electricity for the light comes entirely from Reykjavík Energy, which produces the electricity from geothermal power. The construction and installation of the IMAGINE PEACE TOWER was done by Yoko Ono, in collaboration with the City of Reykjavík, the Reykjavík Art Museum and Reykjavík Energy.

THINGS TO DO IN REYKJAVIK

Island History Nature Art videy.com Summer Schedule from 15 May to 30 September From Ægisgarður

11:50 12:00

From Harpa From Skarfabakki

10:15

11:15

To Skarfabakki To Ægisgarður / Harpa

14:50 15:00

12:15

13:15

14:15

15:15

16:15

17:15

12:30

13:30

14:30

15:30

16:30

17:30

11:30

14:30

18:30

17:30

Winter Schedule on weekends from 1 October to 14 May From Skarfabakki To Skarfabakki

13:15

14:15

15:15

14:30

15:30

16:30

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HÖFÐI HOUSE Höfði House, built in 1909, is one of the most beautiful and historically significant buildings in the Reykjavík area. It’s best known as the location for the 1986 summit meeting of presidents Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbatsjov, a historical event that effectively marked the end of the Cold War. During this meeting images of the house were broadcast all over the world. A Japanese millionaire even had an exact replica of the house built in his country. The sculpture in front of the house depicts pillars from the chieftain’s seat of the first Norwegian settler in Reykjavík. Höfði was initially the house of the French consul in Iceland and still bears many signs of its original purpose, such as the letters R.F (the abbreviation of the French

Republic), the name of the consul and the year of its construction above an inside door. Among renowned guests of Höfði House are celebrities and heads of state, amongst them the Queen of England, Winston Churchilll and Marlene Dietrich. In addition, the house is believed to be occupied by a ghost, “The White Lady”, witnessed by a former British Ambassador who once occupied the house. She caused so much distress that he persuaded the British Foreign Office to sell the house. Höfði is owned by the the City of Reykjavík and is currently used for official receptions and meetings. Although the house is unfortunately not open to the public, visitors are welcome to explore the house from the outside. Höfði House is located on Borgartún in the 105 area of Reykjavík overlooking the waterfront.

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animal park

If you’re looking for a souvenir to take back home after a trip to Iceland, you’re in luck! Icelanders have a creative spirit that can’t be curbed and one of their creative outlets happens to be design. Whether it’s clothes, jewellery, lifestyle products or design items for your home you’re after, you’ll find what you’re looking for, probably along with a few items you didn’t know you needed.

UNIQUE INGREDIENTS

Icelandic nature has a number of unique sources of materials for Icelandic designers to work with. The Icelandic wool is an interesting material, as the Icelandic sheep are a very specific breed, descendant of the first sheep brought to Iceland by the settlers. Bred in isolation for a millennium, the Icelandic sheep have two layers of wool, one soft and insulating and another tougher and water-repellent. This leads to a warm, light and waterproof fabric, that can be knitted, felted or woven into several different creations. Check out the products of Vík Prjónsdóttir and Farmer’s Market. For hardier materials, Iceland does not have a lot of wood (the Icelandic forests are few and far between) which forces Icelandic designers to be creative. Pieces made

THINGS TO DO IN REYKJAVIK

SHOPPING FOR ICELANDIC DESIGN of lava rock, animal horns or bones, fish leather and driftwood are sure to envoke envy when you bring them back.

TRADITIONAL ICELANDIC

Another common thread inherent in a lot of Icelandic design is the Icelandic cultural heritage, folklore, superstitions, and traditional craft. The most famous Icelandic design item is of course the Icelandic woollen sweater, or the lopapeysa. Although it was only first made in the 20th century, it has kept generations of Icelanders warm in the harsh Icelandic nature, quickly earning itself a place in Icelanders hearts. If you’re looking for one for yourself or as a gift, stop by the Icelandic Handknitting Association and get one that’s handmade in Iceland. Not only are there several different variations

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of the lopapeysa available, but the traditional patterns have also inspired designers and is available on everything from t-shirts to candles and plates. Another popular motif in Icelandic design is the raven. In many cultures, the raven is an ominous creature, but in Iceland, he is considered a wise creature and a loyal friend. Farmers like to feed ravens scraps during the winter, as there are several folk tales of ravens saving the lives of their benefactors, warning them of avalanches and leading them home when they’re lost.

INSPIRED BY NATURE

It’s impossible to live on a glacier-covered volcanic island that has a volcanic eruption or a major earthquake every few years and not be affected by it. Icelandic designers often get inspiration from the majestic nature around them, whether it be from the glaciers, volcanoes, mountains or moss-covered lava. The Herðubreið pillow is a beautiful example of Icelandic design, inspired by the mountain Herðubreið. There’s another factor of Icelandic nature that also tends to inspire designers; the weather. The good people of 66°North have been making outerwear intended to overcome the natural forces of the weather ever since they started out making waterproof clothes for Icelandic fishermen, for whom

THE MUSEUM OF DESIGN AND APPLIED ART

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If you’re interested in learning more about Icelandic design and how it has developed, stop by the Museum of Design and Applied Art in Garðabær. They have a collection of Icelandic design items and put on exhibitions that are a feast for the eyes. They also have a beautiful Museum Giftshop selling Icelandic design items, jewellery, books, furniture and decorative items for the home.

warm and waterproof clothing was a matter of life and death. The Icelandic lopapeysa, woollen hats and mittens originate from that same desire, to keep warm in the unpredictable Icelandic nature.

ICELANDIC INGENUITY

Of course, not all Icelandic design can be traced to elements of Iceland, some just spring fully formed from their creator’s minds. Icelandic design owes a lot to Scandinavian design, its simplicity, clean lines and colours inspiring many. If you step into Icelandic design stores, you’ll find for example items like the Pyropet candle, an animal-shaped, pastel coloured candle, that will, when it burns, reveal a metal skeleton, or the NotKnot pillow, a knotted tube of stuffed wool that results in a pretty pillow.

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STEIKHÚSIÐ THE STEAKHOUSE

The Steak house is in the middle of Reykjavík, opposite the old harbor, which has in recent years transformed into a lively neighborhood of restaurants, cafes and artisan stores and work shops.

Try our local seafood or feast on a Black Angus steak from the charcoal oven

Steikhúsið Tryggvagata 4-6 (+354) 561 1111 www.steik.is

MT. ESJA Dominating the Reykjavík city skyline and providing a stunning backdrop to the capital area is the majestic Mount Esja. It’s a popular destination for hikers, which is no wonder because the view from the top of this 914-metre-high mountain is breathtaking. There are different routes up and around the mountain, varying in terms of difficulty. The path is divided into sections, marked with signs along the way. Each sign gives an indication of the difficulty of the path ahead with a grade system ranging from 1 boot (easy) to 3 boots (challenging). Approximately 200 from the top, there’s a point marked with a big rock called “Steinn”. Most inexperienced climbers choose to stop here and take in the view before going down again, as the path

THINGS TO DO IN REYKJAVIK

OUTDOOR AREAS IN REYKJAVÍK becomes increasingly difficult from there on. If you do get to the top, don’t forget to sign the guestbook! Please remember to take care when climbing. It can be steep in places and large quantities of snow are often present on the upper slopes. Follow your chosen route closely and check what the weather conditions are like before attempting a climb. Mt. Esja is located in Kjalarnes, past the town of Mosfellsbaer east of Reykjavík. It is accessible by the number 15 bus from Hlemmur bus station. Get off at Háholt in Mosfellsbaer, then take the number 57 to the foot of Esja at Esjuskáli.

ELLIÐAÁRDALUR VALLEY Elliðaárdalur Valley is a lush recreational area, popular with walkers and cyclists alike. Located within the city limits of Reykjavík, the valley features a fishing river populated with a remarkable number of Arctic char, salmon and brown trout. Fishing licenses are available during the summer fishing season, which is opened annually by the Major of Reykjavík on June 1st. The season ends on August 31st. Note it’s also possible to fish in the nearby Elliðavatn Lake and Reynisvatn Lake.

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LAUGARDALUR VALLEY Laugardalur is a major centre for sports and recreation in the capital. In Laugardalur, you will find a youth hostel, a campsite, and the largest swimming pool in Reykjavík, Laugardalslaug. Having a chat with the locals in the hot tub is essential for a trip to Iceland. Laugardalur also boasts a beautiful botanical garden featuring an impressive selection of Arctic flowers and plants. Beneath the branches of a leafy grove in the gardens you’ll find the lovely Café Flora. The Family Park and Zoo in Laugardalur is open all year. The Zoo includes most Icelandic animals, both wild and domesticated, from foxes, reindeer and seals to cattle, horses and sheep. In summer, the Family Park offers rides and play equipment for children of all ages. At the edge of the Laugardalur valley, not far from

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Laugardalur Arena, is a strangely shaped, domed white building, that houses Ásmundarsafn, the former studio of Ásmundur Sveinsson (18931982), a pioneer of Icelandic sculpture. Reykjavík’s main sports stadium, Laugardalsvöllur, is also located in Laugardalur valley and mostly used for football (soccer) matches in the summertime. Close to the stadium is the Laugardalshöll arena, a multipurpose indoor venue built in 1965. In addition to large pop and rock concerts, trade shows, exhibitions and the 1995 World Championship of Handball, the Laugardalshöll hosted the famous 1972 World Chess Championships, where American Bobby Fischer defeated Russian Boris Spassky. Other sports facilities in the valley include running tracks, football fields and an indoor ice rink.

Try Póló today!

Póló is one of Iceland’s most popular chocolate biscuits. It’s rich chocolate flavour harmonizes perfectly with the exotic taste of coconut. The Póló Biscuit has been a favourite traveling companion to Icelanders since 1926 – try for yourself. Buy Póló, it fits perfectly in your bag or glove compartment – not that it will stay there for long! You’ll find the delicious Póló biscuit at your nearest store.

Iceland ‘s favourite travel companion since 1926 A Part of Icelandic History for 90 Years

HEIÐMÖRK NATURE RESERVE

ÖSKJUHLÍÐ

Situated on the southeast outskirts of Reykjavík city is Heiðmörk – a wonderful recreational area with hiking trails leading through a vast expanse of bushy vegetation and lava rock formations. Some of the parks most notable features are Rauðhólar or ‘Red Hills’ – the remnants of a cluster of pseudocraters in Elliðaárhraun lava field. Heiðmörk is a favourite with the locals, especially for sports enthusiasts, those with children and couples looking for a romantic retreat!

Öskjuhlíð is a beautiful woodland area surrounding the Pearl – one of Reykjavík’s stunning landmark buildings. Conveniently located right in the heart of the city, this gorgeous place makes for a popular quick getaway from city life, where visitors can cycle or walk along the various paths, that weave through a dense forest of pines and birch trees.

Heiðmörk became a conservation area in 1950. More than four million trees have been planted there since then and the already existing vegetation has thrived since the area was fenced-off. The most prominent of the 26 species of trees planted is the Sitka spruce. Those fascinated by the feathery residents of Reykjavík will be pleased to discover that 30 species of breeding birds have also been spotted.

The paths around Öskjuhlíð join an extensive network of well-maintained footpaths in Reykjavík, leading through the scenic shores of Nauthólsvík and around the coastline to Seltjarnanes. Another option is to take the southeast trail to the recreational areas and valleys of Fossvogsdalur and Elliðaárdalur and on to the Heiðmörk heath nature reserve.

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GRANDI Over the centuries, the waterfront of Grandi has been anything but grand. The harbour area was home to the fishing industry with such impressive buildings as fishermen’s dwellings, boathouses, fish-working facilities and so on. Generally, people wouldn’t go there except for fish-related reasons. In recent years, ever since the bulk of the fishing industry moved to the new harbour, this has been rapidly changing. The whole area seems to be caught in an upswing that shows no signs of letting up. It still retains its dockside charm and more than a whiff of the fishing industry’s presence but a steadily growing number of museums, hip restaurants and artisan’s workshops have made their home in the vacaded industrial buildings, making Grandi one of the hottest spots in the city. It would be hipsterish if it weren’t so authentic, with real-life fishing boats on land for repairs and out in the bay as they bring in the catch of the day.

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MUSEUMS Some of the bigger fishing companies have left buildings with grand halls perfect for impressive museums and exhibitions. One such museum is directly tied in with the history of the area, the Reykjavík Maritime Museum. It features exhibitions on the evolution of fishing in Iceland through the ages, highlighting how integral it was to the structure of society, some temporary exhibitions as well as Óðinn, the Coast Guard vessel used in the Cod wars. Another museum with maritime connections is the Whales of Iceland exhibition. The full-size models of the whales that populate the waters around Iceland, complete with an oceanlike atmosphere will remind you of the magnificence of nature. If you’re more interested in history than oceanography, don’t fret, the Grandi has got something for you too. The Saga Museum is an exhibition of wax sculptures bringing the events of the settlement of Iceland to life. There’s also an exhibition dedicated to the Northern Lights, The Aurora Museum. It’s the only place where you can see the Northern Lights all year round.

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RESTAURANTS Some of the most interesting new restaurants are opening up in the Grandi area. The scene is distinguished by smaller, innovative, and often more nature-focused eateries. Matur og Drykkur is where the past and future of Icelandic cuisine meet. Inspired by the 20th century cooking bible of most Icelandic homes, the eponymous Matur og Drykkur (it means, simply, Food and Drink), the restaurant focuses on overlooked and forgotten Icelandic ingredients and cooking techniques, updated for the modern palate. The family run restaurant Coocoo’s Nest, has many faces. During the day, it’s a deli with sandwiches, soups and salads but during the evening, there are themed nights, taco Tuesdays, Pizza Nights and Italian nights. The weekend brunch menu is one of the city’s most popular! Not all the restaurants are brand-spanking new. Kaffivagninn started serving hungry and thirsty sailors in 1935 and, although it’s been updated for the 21st century, it still focuses on serving filling breakfast and lunch plates, mostly fish-based, and coffee to hungry patrons. The area is a haven for seafood fans as Bergsson RE and Bryggjan also focus on fresh delicacies from the ocean. At Bryggjan, you’ll be able to try some homemade beer as well, as the restaurant doubles as a brewery. For those with a sweet tooth, the Valdís ice cream shop churns out some delicious gelato and sorbet, while cake shop 17 sortir serves all the scrumptious confectionaries you can imagine; cupcakes, slices, cookies and even whole cakes if you’re feeling festive!

SHOPPING Amongst this interesting flora of culture and cuisine is a smattering of small workshops and quirky stores, such as the clothing design workshops of

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Steinunn, who worked with the likes of Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein and Gucci for many years, Krínólín and Sifka, which honours the history of the area with clothing and designs made of fish-leather. Farmer’s Market, confusingly enough is not a farmer’s market, but a fashion label working with natural fabrics. If it’s food you’re after, check out Delicatessen Búrið, which offers cheeses, jams, cured meats and olives from around the world, not to be confused with recently opened Matarbúrið, a specialty store with farmtraceable meat. There’s also goldsmith Jens Gullsmiður, cycle workshop Kría and public art piece Þúfan (the Hillock) where you can climb up for an awesome view. These are just a few examples of the interesting new businesses of the Grandi area. It will be exciting to see how the waterfront will develop as these quirky and creative places gain traction, what kind of store or workshop will pop up next, and how its history will affect its future. But in all this one thing seems certain – Grandi is certainly worth stopping by and strolling around, and it will definitely continue to be so for years to come. So stop by, try some innovative food, pick up some unique design and take in a fantastic museum, you won’t be bored on a day at Grandi.

POOLS & SPAS Geothermal water is one of Iceland’s greatest natural resources. It’s used to heat houses and produce electricity, but most importantly, Icelanders love to swim in it. Pools and spas are a huge part of the Reykjavík lifestyle. The country has over 170 pools—spread around the country and throughout all of the capital region’s neighbourhoods. Most swimming complexes include a lap pool, a hot tub or five and at least one steam room. If you’d like to treat yourself to Reykjavík’s loved spa culture, indulge in a trip to the local pool or spa.

THERMAL POOLS INCLUDED IN THE REYKJAVÍK CITY CARD ÁRBÆJARLAUG Fylkisvegur 9, 110 Reykjavík | 411 5200 Open: M-T 6:30-22, F 6:30-20, Sat-Sun 9-18 BREIÐHOLTSLAUG Austurberg 3, 111 Reykjavík | 557 5547 Open: M-T 06:30-22:00, F 6:30-20, Sat-Sun 9-18 GRAFARVOGSLAUG Dalhús 2, 112 Reykjavík | 510 4600 Open: M-T 06:30-22:00, F 06:30-20:00, Sat–Sun 9-18

OTHER THERMAL POOLS IN THE REYKJAVÍK CAPITAL AREA SUNDHÖLL HAFNARFJARÐAR Herjólfsgata 10, Hafnarfjörður | 555 0088 ÁSVALLALAUG Ásvellir 2, Hafnarfjörður | 512 4050 SUÐURBÆJARLAUG Hringbraut 77, Hafnarfjörður | 565 3080 KÓPAVOGSLAUG Borgarholtsbraut 17, Kópavogur | 570 0470 SALALAUG Versalir 3, 201 Kópavogur | 570 0480

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LÁGAFELLSLAUG Lækjarhlíð 1a, 270 Mosfellsbær | 517 6080

KLÉBERGSLAUG Kjalarnes, 116 Reykjavík | 566 6879 Open: M-F 15-22, Sat-Sun 11-15 LAUGARDALSLAUG Sundlaugarvegur, 104 Reyk. | 411 5100 Open: M-F 6:30-22, Sat-Sun 8-22 SUNDHÖLL REYKJAVÍKUR Barónstígur, 101 Reykjavík | 411 5350 Open: M-T 6:30-22, F 6:30-20, Sat 8-16, Sun 10-18 VESTURBÆJARLAUG Hofsvallagata, 101 Reykjavík | 411 5150 Open: M-T 6:30-22, F 06:30-20, Sat-Sun 9-18

VARMÁRLAUG 270 Mosfellsbær | 566 6754 GARÐABÆJARLAUG Ásgarður, 210 Garðabær | 565 8066 ÁLFTANESLAUG Bjarnastaðir, 225 Álftanes | 550 2350 SUNDLAUG SELTJARNARNESS Suðurströnd, 170 Seltjarnarnes | 561 1551 LOFTLEIÐALAUG Loftleiðir hotel, 101 Reykjavík | 444 4085 NAUTHÓLSVÍK Nauthólsvegur, 101 Reykjavík| 511 6630 For a complete listing of Iceland’s pools, visit www.swimminginiceland.com

50 MINI ATURE ESSAYS ON THE QUIRKS AND FOIBLES OF THE ICELANDI C PEOPLE

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THE NORTHERN LIGHTS If you’re coming to Iceland in the winter, chances are you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of the elusive Aurora Borealis. The Northern Lights are a magnificent natural phenomen and watching these sheets and ribbons of light glide slowly around the winter night sky is an ethereal experience. While the lights look magical, in fact they have an impressive scientific explanation. Particles released from the sun during solar storms travel through space and burn up when they hit earth’s atmosphere. The colour of the lights depends on where in the earth’s atmosphere the particle’s burn up. The lights appear high in the sky, which means that clouds can cover the lights. It’s best to look for them on a clear night. The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon so they’re not dependable. Sometimes they come out early in the evening, clear and bright, but sometimes they don’t appear until the middle of

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the night or just appear as blurry lights. While their appearance or intensity is never guaranteed, the meteorological institute of Iceland publishes an aurora forecast, updated every day. So what is the best way to see the lights? Check the forecast and on a clear night, get out of the city. While the aurora are sometimes visible in the city, they are obscured by the city lights, just like the stars. Most tour companies offer Northern lights tours by bus, boat or jeep and if you don’t see any lights you can take the tour again the next night for free. From Mid-april to September, the lights can’t be seen because the nights are too bright.

CHECK OUT www.whatson.is/Northern-Lights for a great list of useful tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your Northern Lights hunt!

AURORA REYKJAVÍK THE NORTHERN LIGHTS CENTER

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Grandagarður 2 - 101 Reykjavík. Near the old harbour. Tel: (+354) 780 4500 - www.aurorareykjavik.is

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SUMMER 2016 FESTIVAL OF THE SEA

June 4th-5th Fishermen’s Day, celebrated the first Sunday of June, reminds us of how important the sea and the sailors are to our history, our economy and our people. Every ship in Iceland is in harbour and the sailors have a day off. It’s light-hearted occasion with lots of fun for the whole family.

THE COLOR RUN

11th June Run through five kilometres of exploding coloured powder, ending your run in a colourful outdoor party. The aim of this event is to bring Color Running mania to the world!

VIKING FESTIVAL IN HAFNARFJÖRÐUR

June 12th-17th The Viking Village in Hafnarfjörður hosts a Solstice Festival with Viking clothing, instruments, jewellery, crafts, and of course food and drink. On the programme are Viking fights, storytelling, archery and so much more!

REYKJAVÍK MIDSUMMER MUSIC

June 16th-19th Reykjavík Midsummer Music is an award-winning chamber music festival founded by pianist Víkingur Ólafsson in 2012. The festival’s goal is to bring some of the best musicians of the world together in Reykjavík to play great music from past and present under the Arctic midnight sun.

NATIONAL DAY

June 17th The National Day of Iceland has been celebrated on June 17th since Iceland’s independence in 1944. The festivities in Reykjavík include colourful parades, street theatre, music, and dancing.

EVENT CALENDAR

SECRET SOLSTICE FESTIVAL

June 19th-21st First taking place in June 2014, the Secret Solstice festival received unanimous praise from both Icelandic and foreign guests. As the name suggest, the festival takes place during the solstice meaning the sun stays up, all night long!

GRÓSKA – MIDSUMMER DAY FESTIVAL

June 22nd A local association of visual artists exhibit visual art outdoors on Midsummer day, along with musical performances and all sorts of happenings take place on the beautiful footpath along the seaside in Garðabær.

MIDSUMMER NIGHT WALK

June 22nd A mid-summer night walk, campfire, song and refreshments takes place every year on the peninsula of Seltjarnarnes. Fun for the whole family,

INTERNATIONAL ORGAN SUMMER

June - August Hallgrímskirkja church hosts a series of organ concerts on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays, all summer. Various musicians perform various pieces of organ music on the beautiful Klais organ.

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June - August The Reykjavík classics concerts take place at noon every day for the whole summer in the beautiful Eldborg music hall in the iconic Harpa concert hall by the harbour. The concert is specifically designed to meet the demands of those who wish to listen to live performances of classical music, performed by artists of the highest calibre.

INGÓLFSHÁTÍÐ VIKING FESTIVAL

July 9th Hljómskálagarður Park is transformed from modern to medieval as the Einherjar Vikings, dressed in full costume and character invite fellow Vikings from all over the world to enjoy a day of celebrating the fascinating cultural heritage of the Vikings!

REY CUP 2015 INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL FESTIVAL July Football and Fun! A number of international teams participate in the Rey Cup, from the UK to the other Nordic countries at the Laugardalur Sport Center.

INNIPÚKINN FESTIVAL

August 1st-4th Innipúkinn is an annual music festival, held in Reykjavík on the August bank holiday weekend. Past guests include Cat Power, Blonde Redhead, Mugison, Raveonnettes, Hjálmar, Mínus, Dikta, FM Belfast, Televison, and many more.

REYKJAVÍK PRIDE

August 2th-7th Tens of thousands of people flock to the city centre every year to show solidarity and have fun with the gay community in Reykjavík and to celebrate and support human rights for all.

REYKJAVÍK BACON FESTIVAL

August 13th On this tasty day, fans of bacon are invited to follow their noses to the Bacon Festival and sample a

wide variety of bacon and baconinspired treats.

ICELANDIC CHAMBER MUSIC FESTIVAL

August 4th-14th The aim of the festival is for young musicians to participate in chamber music and to get a chance to perform and interact. Located in Kópavogur, Salurinn concert hall serves as perfect venue for over a hundred musicians and music students from all over the world.

EVENT CALENDAR

REYKJAVÍK CLASSIC CONCERTS

REYKJAVÍK JAZZ FESTIVAL

August 9-14th The annual Reykjavík Jazz Festival is an increasingly prestigious event on the international jazz scene. It features many acclaimed international jazz players as well as Icelandic leading jazz musicians.

REYKJAVÍK CULTURE NIGHT

August 20nd Reykjavík Culture Night has become an essential part of cultural life in Iceland with thousands of people enjoying everything from traditional shows and exhibitions to more unusual happenings.

REYKJAVÍK MARATHON

August 20th This annual event involves thousands of participants from Iceland and abroad, and includes the marathon proper, half marathon, a 10 km run and the 3k Fun Run.

REYKJAVÍK DANCE FESTIVAL

August 24th-28th A series of events bringing together numerous choreographers and dancers from the Icelandic dance scene. The festival features a diversity of energetic events, all aiming to expand the notion of choreography through innovation and expression with numerous seminars, dinners, workshops, publications, cyberpunk dance sessions, and epic performances.

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REYKJAVÍK GUITARAMA

October 1st Several of the world’s greatest guitar players join the host, Björn Thoroddsen, on stage in Háskólabíó to show audiences all the tricks the guitar has to offer.

MOORLAND INT. CHILDREN’S AND YOUTH LITERATURE FESTIVAL

WINTER 2016-17 BEARS ON ICE

September 1st – 4th Organised by volunteers to spice up the local gay scene and introduce gay-friendly Iceland to guests. It is one of Iceland’s three biggest gay events, and in recent years, Iceland´s only men-only events.

ICELANDIC TATTOO EXPO

September 2nd – 4th Tattoo artists from all over the world gather in Reykjavík for one weekend, showing off their skills in the art of tattooing.

RUSSIAN FILM DAYS

September 15th – 18th The best of Russian cinematography is showcased at the downtown Reykjavík arthouse cinema, Bíó Paradís. Films are screened in the original Russian with English subtitles. A selection of award-winning films mixed with current Russian cinema.

TANGO ON ICE

September 22nd – 25th The Reykjavík Tango Club was founded by a few tango enthusiasts who wanted to promote Argentine tango in Iceland. The festival offers dance workshops with some of the best tango dancers in the world.

NORDIC MUSIC DAYS

September 29th - October 1st The festival showcases excellent contemporary music performances by Nordic composers, performed by leading ensembles and soloists from the Nordic region. This year, Reykjavík will host the festival.

REYKJAVÍK INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL - RIFF

September 29th-october 9th RIFF was founded in 2004 with the aim of enriching and enlivening the local film culture. It has since become an international attraction, showcasing every year some of the most interesting films produced all over the world. RIFF’s grand prize is the Golden 134 Puffin.

7th – 9th October The festival includes readings, workshops, seminars and art exhibitions for both adults and children. All events are free of charge.

IMAGINE PEACE TOWER

October 9th A work of art by Yoko Ono dedicated to the memory of John Lennon. A wishing well, from which a strong and tall tower of light emerges. Every year the Imagine Peace Tower stays lit between Lennon’s birthday and the day of his death.

JAPANESE FILM DAYS

October 16th – 30th The festival offers a great selection of anime films for children of all ages, as well as Japanese games and cards. Entry is free and films are screened in Japanese with English subtitles.

REYKJAVÍK COMEDY FESTIVAL

October 21st – 23rd An international stand-up comedy festival hosted in Harpa Music Hall and Conference Centre.

CYCLE MUSIC AND ART FESTIVAL

October 27th – 30th The festival is a new platform for exploring and exhibiting the meeting point of creative worlds, and producing and presenting works that reach outside the traditional boundaries of discipline, craft and process.

THE GHOST TOWN HAFNARFJÖRÐUR

October 27th – 31st The municipality of Hafnarfjörður turns into an eerie ‘ghost town’ in celebration of Halloween.

ICELAND AIRWAVES

Nov 2th-6th The festival started as a showcase for local DJs but has evolved into an international music festival that presents the hottest new bands from the USA, Europe and Iceland. The festival attracts thousands of international visitors annually to sample the freshest sounds, foreign and domestic.

UNGLIST (YOUNG ART FESTIVAL)

November This festival week is packed with a multitude of performers and spectators. The program consists of music, design, fashion, photography, paintings and theatre. The festival reflects current trends in young people’s art.

LIGHTING OF THE REYKJAVÍK CHRISTMAS TREE

November 27th The lighting of the Reykjavík Christmas tree at Austurvöllur is always a joyous event on the first Sunday of the advent. Families gather to sing Christmas carols and join in the festivities, and the Icelandic Yule lads make an appearance.

ADVENT AND CHRISTMAS

December The main day of celebration for Icelanders is Christmas Eve but the Christmas season starts late November, when streets and buildings are adorned with Christmas lights and people start frequenting Christmas buffets. Shop for some unique gifts in Reykjavík city centre, visit the quaint Christmas Village in Hafnarfjörður town, check out the Christmas-themed museum exhibitions and explore the winter landscape around Reykjavík. On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day you can enjoy a traditional Icelandic Christmas dinner at the restaurants in Reykjavík.

NEW YEAR’S EVE

December 31st Shops are open and visitors can dine at one of Reykjavík’s many restaurants. Join in the celebrations by taking a New Year’s Eve tour or by

finding your own way to one of the city’s huge bonfires. At midnight, we set off a great amount of fireworks. Traditionally, it’s one of the year’s biggest parties and all the bars, pubs, music halls, clubs and entertainment establishments are open for business. The action doesn’t really start downtown until well after midnight, but the party will still be jumping at 6am.

ÞRETTÁNDINN (TWELFTH NIGHT)

January 6th The last day of Yule is celebrated with another round of bonfires and possibly some elfin dances. Many of the magical events associated with New Year’s Eve are also supposed to occur on our twelfth night. This is also traditionally when Icelanders set off whatever fireworks we didn’t fire off on New Year’s Eve.

ICELANDIC PHOTOGRAPHY FESTIVAL

January An exciting festival with photography exhibitions, artist talks and lectures, portfolio reviews and a photo-book evening.

REYKJAVÍK INTERNATIONAL GAMES

January The city of Reykjavík will for the eigth time welcome sports participants to a multi-sport competition in Laugardalur, the Valley of Sport.

DARK MUSIC DAYS

January The annual contemporary music festival Dark Music Days is becoming an increasingly popular music event. The Iceland Composer Society holds the festival in collaboration with most of Iceland’s finest performers.

ÞORRINN

Every winter, Icelanders celebrate the annual Þorrablót, a lively festival celebrating the Icelandic heritage.There’s singing, dancing, and, of course, the consumption of traditional Viking food: smoked lamb, singed sheep heads and fermented shark, all topped off with Brennivín (Icelandic schnapps).

WINTER LIGHTS FESTIVAL

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February This event is intended to stimulate and enliven city life in midwinter. It celebrates both the winter and the growing light after a long period of darkness. All the major cultural and educational institutions participate and clubs, galleries, artists, shops, restaurants and many more join in the fun.

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PENIS MUSEUM The only one of its kind in the world!

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DAS ISLÄNDISCHE PHALLUSMUSEUM

Eine einzigartige Sammlung und die einzigste ihrer Art auf der Welt!

LA PHALLOTHÈQUE D´ISLANDE Une collection unique, une première mondiale!

No pornography or offensive material in the museum.

Laugavegur 116 • 105 Reykjavík • Tel.: +354-561-6663 phallus@phallus.is • www.phallus.is

MUSEUM NIGHT

February Reykjavík’s museums stay open past midnight and offer special events, including theatre, street performances, dance, visual arts and more. A special Museum Night bus travels between the museums and entrance is free.

REYKJAVÍK COCKTAIL WEEKEND

February The goal of the festival is to bring choirs from around the world to sing together in union for peace on earth. Every voice in the world is asked to join and sing John Lennon’s song, ‘Love’.

REYKJAVÍK BAR SUMMIT

February An annual event where bars and bartenders from around the world gather to compete in preparing drinks, service, bar set-up, creativity, atmosphere and more.

SÓNAR

February A small and friendly winter pride festival offering a mixture of nature, activities, culture, cuisine, music and nightlife. Website: rainbowReykjavík.com

February 16th-18th An international festival of advanced music and new media art. The festival presents the current electronic musical landscape and its interactions and hybridization with other artistic disciplines. Sónar brings together established artists and emerging talent.

STOCKFISH FILM FESTIVAL

DESIGN MARCH

REYKJAVÍK COFFEE FESTIVAL

FOOD AND FUN

RAINBOW REYKJAVÍK

February The festival screens some of the most up-and-coming arthouse films in the world and invites international filmmakers to discuss the state of filmmaking, the industry and community. February The Reykjavík Coffee Festival is where baristas compete in brewing espressos and making traditional coffee. Visitors enjoy endless free coffee tastings, interactive workshops and demonstrations from world-class baristas.

EVENT CALENDAR

February The Icelandic Bartender Association, in cooperation with many bars and restaurants in Reykjavík, hosts the annual Reykjavík Cocktail weekend. There are several events such as concerts, live music and offers on drinks.

REYKJAVÍK PEACE FESTIVAL

March Design March is a festival celebrating Icelandic design in all its forms. From fashion to furniture, architecture to food design, the festival presents the best of the local design scene alongside exciting international names. March World-acclaimed chefs collaborate with Reykjavík’s finest restaurants. Each chef is assigned to one of the participating restaurants, where they prepare a special menu crafted from Icelandic ingredients. The menus are presented at all the restaurants for an entire week.

REYKJAVÍK FOLK MUSIC FESTIVAL March A three-day musical feast celebrating the diversity and breadth of the Icelandic folk music scene. The festival showcases artists of all ages; you can listen to musical outpourings of woe and wonder from contemporary bands, but then be transported back in time to listen to the wonderful soundtrack and musical stories of times gone by.

REYKJAVÍK FASHION FESTIVAL

March The cream of Icelandic fashion talent has joined forces with bright sparks on the music scene to revitalize the established and popular Reykjavík Fashion Festival. Organizers include E-Label, Nikita, Birna, Thelma-Design, Mundi Design and Faxaflói.

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GERMAN FILM DAYS

March The German Film Days are organised by Bíó Paradís in cooperation with the Goethe Institut Denmark and the German Embassy in Iceland.

REYKJAVÍK BLUES FESTIVAL

March The festival gives young and promising blues artists the chance to perform with legends from both sides of the Atlantic in some of the most unique jam sessions in the northern hemisphere.

ICELANDIC MUSIC EXPERIMENTS

April Iceland’s version of Battle of the Bands, this grassroots music event has produced some of Iceland’s most popular musicians through the years.

21 April The inhabitants of Seltjarnarnes celebrate the summer with a festival for the family in Grótta penisula. This is the only day of the year the light-house is open to the public and you can enjoy the exceptional view from the top.

CHILDREN’S CULTURE FESTIVAL

April Children’s culture, culture for children and culture with children. These are the three main aspects of this festival. The festival features plenty of events aimed at children up to 16 years of age.

REYKJAVÍK BLUES FESTIVAL

April This retreat features small workshops and panels by renowned authors, focusing on the art and craft of writing.

April Blues artists from around the world perform together in some of the most unique jam session in the Northern Hemisphere along with young and promising blues artists of the future.

AT HOME MUSIC FESTIVAL

REYKJAVÍK HORSE FESTIVAL

GARÐABÆR JAZZ FESTIVAL

ART WITHOUT BORDERS

ICELAND WRITERS RETREAT

April A music festival held in private homes centrally located in Hafnarfjörður. Guests stroll from house to house to enjoy live music and meet up with locals at their own homes. April A small annual jazz Festival with some of Iceland’s leading jazz musicians along with young local musicians.

BRIGHT DAYS IN HAFNARFJORDUR

April The Hafnarfjordur arts and cultural festival Bright Days is held annually. The aim of Bright Days is to provide entertainment for locals and visitors, and to promote Hafnarfjordur arts and artists. The varied programme offers something for everyone.

SPRING 2016 EVE FANFEST

April An exciting weekend event inviting countless fans from across the world to celebrate and share their passion for Icelandic video game EVE online.

FIRST DAY OF SUMMER

April 20th This optimistic summer celebration (set in April) is celebrated with parades, family events and smiles all round, regardless of whether it snows or not.

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DAY OF GRÓTTA / GRÓTTUDAGUR

May The Reykjavík Horse Festival is the city’s celebration of the unique Icelandic horse, bred in isolation for a millennium. The focus is on the Icelandic horse and its unique features. May The aim of the festival is to celebrate diversity and participation of people with disabilities. The festival crosses over mixed media of art, music and theatre.

REYKJAVÍK ARTS FESTIVAL

May Iceland’s premier cultural festival brings together the best in local and international theatre, dance, music and visual art, and offers a variety of exhibitions, concerts, dance, theatre and opera performances. Along with its focus on Icelandic culture past and present, the festival hosts many outstanding international artists and performers.

RAFLOST

May The main aim of the festival is to boost the grass root of Icelandic electronic arts by introducing the youngest generation as well as the general public, to the past, present and future of electronic arts. To present the newest in electronic art technology, creation and performance, and therefore be an inspiration for further creativity.

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GOOD TO KNOW

DOMESTIC AIR TERMINAL Air Iceland maintains a domestic network based in Reykjavík with destinations around the island and links to the Faeroe Islands and Greenland. Reykjavík Municipal Airport +354 570 3030 | www.airiceland.is BSÍ-Bus terminal Vatnsmýrarvegur 10, 101 Reykjavík +354 580 5400 | www.bsi.is Take the bus to destinations all around the island. BSÍ is close to the city centre and there should be taxis waiting to take you to your final destination and some hotels provide shuttles from BSÍ.

RIDE-SHARE A free site used both by drivers looking for passengers and passengers looking for rides. Great for getting out of the city (or back) on the cheap. www. samferda.is

FROM & TO THE AIRPORT The airport bus service is the straightforward option. You could also grab a taxi that takes you from door to door. Driving time through the glorious mossy lava fields of Reykjanes peninsula to the capital is about 50 minutes.

Takes you from Keflavík to the centre of Reykjavík.

TAXIS IN REYKJAVÍK Taxis are normally summoned with a phone call or by going to a taxi stand; you can always pay with a credit card.

GOOD TO KNOW

Here you’ll find the nitty-gritty nuts and bolts of life in the city. Although Reykjavík is a relatively small place, it may take some time to figure out how to navigate the city. Most of downtown can be covered by foot, but when you leave the centre things get a little trickier.

Hreyfill-Bæjarleiðir +354 588 5522 Bifreiðastöð Reykjavíkur +354 561 0000

DRIVING IN REYKJAVÍK Speed limits: On city streets the speed limit is generally 50kph/30mph, unless otherwise posted. Seatbelts: Wearing seatbelts is mandatory and children under the age of five must be strapped into an approved child seat. Parking: Free parking can be hard to find in the city centre, and violators are towed away literally within minutes. The city uses both parking meters as well as dashboard slips for metered parking. Cell phones: If you get caught using your cell phone while driving, you’ll get a ticket.

Buy your ticket online or in the arrivals terminal. When departing, buy your seat the day prior. Your hotel or guesthouse can normally help you with this. FLYBUS (flugrútan) +354 562 1011 | www.flybus.is Takes you from Keflavík airport to BSÍ. AIRPORT EXPRESS +354 540 1313 | www.airportexpress.is

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Drunk driving: If you are caught driving with a blood alcohol level of .05 then you will be charged and your car will be impounded. Rush hours: Weekdays: 7:30 to 9:30 and 17 to 18:30. Gas stations: Most gas stations are open every day from 8 to 23:30— many with 24-hour pay at-the-pump facilities.

CITY BUS (STRÆTÓ) Bus maps are available at bus stations and tourist information centres. Most bus stops also include a route map. You can go to www.bus.is or download the Strætó mobile app and get precise directions about which buses to use. Operating hours: Daily from 6:30 / 7 until midnight, except on Sun and most holidays, when it runs from 11:30 / noon until midnight. There is no bus service on Good Friday, Easter, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Fares and tickets: Single trip costs 420 ISK and can be bought from the driver (who does not give change) or the mobile app. If you need to change buses remember to ask for a transfer or “skiptimiði.”

PHONE HOME Dialling: When dialling internationally in Iceland, dial 00 to get out of the country, then select the country code, then the number. When dialling local numbers, you don’t need to include the 354-country code, only the last seven digits. Cell Phones / GSM: Cell phones work almost all over Iceland and you can get an Icelandic pre-paid (“Frelsi) SIM card and use a pre-paid. There are four major service providers in the country: Nova (nova.is), Síminn (siminn.is), Tal (tal.is) and Vodafone (vodafone.is). You can top up your phone through the company’s service number or buy cards from 144 convenience stores.

Phone Centre: There is a phone centre at the tourist office at Aðalstræti 2. Internet Access & Hot Spots: The tourist office at Aðalstræti 2 offers Internet access on their own computers for a fee. If you have your own device, you can use WiFi at almost any café or bar downtown for free (sometimes you have to buy a coffee). Many hotels and guesthouses also offer free WiFi. Phonebook & Online Maps: The Icelandic phone book lists people by their first names and offers an interactive searchable map. www.ja.is Directory information & International assistance: Dial 1818 or 1819 the 24/7 service for information about: names, addresses and numbers, Yellow Pages; be connected to international numbers or make collect calls.

USEFUL NUMBERS The emergency number in Iceland is 112. Use it in any emergency for ambulance, fire department, medical help, police and doctors. Doctors on duty 1770 Dentists on duty +354 575 0505 Weather +354 902 0600 Police – Non-emergency Hverfisgata 113 | +354 444 1000

OPENING HOURS Public institutions: Mon-Fri 10 to 15 or 16. General office hours: Mon- Fri 9-17. Banks: Most banks open Mon-Fri from 9 to 16. The Arion and the Islandsbanki bank branches at Kringlan shopping mall have longer hours and are open on Saturdays. Shops: Vary, but are generally Mon-Thu 10 to 18, Fri 10 to 19 and Sat 10 to 16. Malls usually have extended hours on Thursdays.

KÓPAVOGUR Kópavogur is Iceland’s second largest town. Just a stone’s throw from the centre of Reykjavík, the town boasts a number of remarkable sights and buildings including a modern dome-shaped church, a recital hall, a modern art museum and a natural history museum. Kópavogur is the perfect destination if you’re in the mood to get in touch with nature and we recommend taking some time to experience the coastal ecosystem and birdlife. After a long day of exploring, a visit to one of the capital area’s best swimming pools is the perfect way to relax.

CULTURE Kópavogur’s Culture Houses are a collection of institutions dedicated to art and culture, conveniently located in a cluster of buildings at Hamraborg 4-6. The Kópavogur Art Museum, Gerðarsafn, is a progressive museum focusing mostly on modern and contemporary art. The museum offers temporary exhibitions with works by Icelandic and international contemporary artists as well as displaying works from the museum’s collection. The exhibitions are generally inspired by the museum’s status as the only Icelandic museum built in honour of a female artist, Gerður Helgadóttir (1928-1975). Gerður (1928-1975) was a pioneer of threedimensional abstract art and glass art in Iceland and the museum collection holds over fourteen hundred works by Gerður. Gerðarsafn Art Museum Hamraborg 4 +354 570 0440 | www.gerdarsafn.is Open: Tue-Sun 11-17

Next door to the art museum is the Kópavogur public library. The library has an extensive selection of books and magazines, in English as well as Icelandic.

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Salurinn recital hall was the first concert hall in Iceland to be specifically designed with regard to acoustics. It hosts all kinds of concerts, go to www.salurinn.is for more information.

Natural History Museum Hamraborg 6A +354 570 0430 | www.natkop.is Open: Mon-Thu 10-19, Fri 11-17, Sat 13-17

HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE The Kópavogur swimming pool is well worth a visit. It’s a great place for young families, with an outdoor swimming pool, several hot tubs and a sauna. There is also a Nautilus gym on the grounds. Kópavogur Swimming Pool Borgarholtsbraut 17 +354 570 0470 | sund.kopavogur.is Open: May—Sep | Mon-Fri 6.30-22, Sat-Sun 8-20 Oct—Apr | Mon-Fri 6.30-22, Sat-Sun 8-18

Another great place to make a splash is the Versalir thermal pool and gym. As one of the newest facilities in the capital area, it’s well worth a visit. If you’d rather work up a sweat, you could visit the Nautilus gym onsite. Versalir Thermal Pool and Gym Versölum 3 +354 570 0480 | sund.kopavogur.is Open: May—Sep | Mon-Fri 6.30-22, Sat-Sun 8-20 Oct—Apr | Mon-Fri 6.30-22, Sat-Sun 8-18

NEIGHBORHOOD TOWNS

The Natural History Museum hosts exhibitions, with an emphasis on geology and Icelandic wildlife, including the arctic fox and numerous species of fish and birds. It also has an “extraordinary” (as described by David Attenborough, when he visited in 2005) exhibition of Japanese style “Marimo” lake balls. Science fans will also want to check out the Borgarholt coastal preserve just a short walk away.

In addition to the great facilities Kópavogur has to offer, the town is also rich in green areas, walking paths and bicycle paths, perfect for a day out in nature. Whether you feel like having a day out in nature, taking in some art and culture, going swimming, shopping or to the gym, Kópavogur is the perfect destination. The Hamraborg area is serviced by buses no. 1, 2 and 4. Check out www. bus.is or get the mobile Strætó app for more information.

For more information, check out www.kopavogur.is/en

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HAFNAFJÖRÐUR Hafnarfjörður is known as ‘the Town in the Lava’ because of its proximity to wildly shaped lava formations. About 7300 years ago Búrfell Mountain erupted and the area where the lava flowed from it, hardening on its way to the sea, became known as Hafnarfjörður. Today, Hafnarfjörður is a charming little seaside town, just a few kilometres south of Reykjavík. Despite being part of the capital area, Hafnarfjörður still retains an independent spirit and a sense of identity.

THE BEAUTIFUL SEASIDE Hafnarfjörður is a friendly seaside community that is home to some 28,000 people. Much of the town is made up of charming, colourful houses adorned with corrugated iron, perfect for a pleasant stroll through the centre and the oldest part of town. Hafnarfjörður is a great place to spend the day, beautiful parks, an art museum, a folk museum (free admission, no less!), three geothermal pools, numerous restaurants and a selection of boutiques that focus on Icelandic design, all located in the compact town centre that is only 15- 20 minutes away from central Reykjavík, with bus no. 1. Get the bus app or see www.bus.is.

TOWN FESTIVALS Hafnarfjörður has its own collection of festivals, one of the most popular being the Viking festival in June. The setting of the festival is a Viking times market day, when foreign ships came ashore and set up their tents to sell their wares. Then there’s the art and culture festival 148 “Brighter Days” which takes place around

Iceland’s very own holiday, the First Day of Summer. During December, the town centre is transformed for the festivities into a Yuletide village, with a Christmas market and plenty of live entertainment.

A COLOURFUL TOWN CENTRE Hafnarfjörður has numerous interesting design shops and boutiques, with the harbour waterfront featuring cafés, restaurants, shops and boutiques, a jeweller that makes rune jewellery and a workshop focusing on national costumes. If you’d like to get acquainted with the town on a deeper level, then a trip to the Hafnarfjörður Museum is a must. The main museum houses two permanent exhibitions; one dedicated to the town’s colourful history while the other presents an exhibition of antique children’s toys.

THE HIDDEN PEOPLE Even the Elves wants to live in Hafnarfjörður. This beautiful town is known for its population of elves and hidden people that, legend has it, live in the hills and lava rock formations of the Hafnarfjörður landscape. Some folks in town can be considered experts in these mythical creatures and they even give guided tours. You can also stop by the Hellisgerði elf park and take in the supernatural presence.

TOURIST INFORMATION Town Hall, Strandgata 6 +354 585 5500 Open: Mon-Fri 8-16 Hafnarfjörður Museum, Vesturgata 8 Open: Jun-Aug, Daily 11-17 Sep-May, Sat-Sun 11-17 visithafnarfjordur.is

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winter, the areas around the coastline are perfect for viewing the magnificent Northern Lights! The best known landmark is the old lighthouse on Grótta Ísland, with stunning seaviews and a wealth of birdlife. Note that during the nesting season (May 1st – July 1st) Grótta is closed.

SELTJARNARNES Seltjarnarnes is a small town situated on tip of the Reykjavík peninsula, with remarkable views of the Atlantic Ocean. Since much of the town is located within a beautiful nature reserve, many locals make use of its excellent recreational areas and the extensive walking and cycling paths encircling the entire peninsula. Its unobstructed views, of the setting sun and the impressive Snæfellsjökull glacier, make it a romantic destination and magnet for travellers and photographers alike. During the

A permanent art installation, Kvika by Ólöf Nordal, made of dolomite stone with a round footbath carved into the centre, is located on the northern side of the peninsula next to the shark-curing shed. People visiting are thoroughly encouraged to bring a towel and make good use of it by taking a relaxing footbath out in the open sea-air! In case you’d like to warm-up more than just your toes, the town’s thermal pool comes highly recommended and features a lap pool, several different hot tubs, a slide, a steam bath and toddler pool; all supplied uniquely with geothermal seawater. Serviced by bus no. 11. seltjarnarnes.is

Iceland has a long history of art and design. Some of the creative results have been preserved in the Museum of Design & Applied Art at Garðatorg – the town centre. The museum’s objective is to collect, study and present Icelandic design and crafts dating from the beginning of the twentieth century to the present day.

GARÐABÆR An important part of the capital area, with its own collection of diverse landscapes, stretching from the beautiful Heiðmörk Nature Reserve to the pleasant Álftanes peninsula.

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The town has a rich historic background, which can be explored in great detail at the Hofsstaðir Archaeological Park, where remains of a large farm from the settlement age are on exhibition. The site, dates back to the end of the 9th century, when Norwegian Vikings were first settling this Arctic island. While visiting you can get the official story via their touch-screen display. Free admission and open 24 hours a day.

Situated on a low-lying peninsula just south of the city centre, Álftanes is a small community of about 2,500 people. Apart from it being home to the official presidential residence Bessastaðir—an ancient farmstead housing the nation’s leaders for centuries, one of its major attractions is the swimming pool, featuring the largest waterslide in the country and Iceland’s only wave pool. If you’re a fan of the outdoors, Álftanes is also a hikers’ paradise with trails spanning 9km (5, 1/2 miles) around the unique shoreline. Those who are fascinated by the feathery residents of Reykjavík will also be pleased to discover that the shoreline is filled with clear ponds bustling with migratory birdlife! www.gardabaer.is

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