What's On in Reykjavík - March 2025 by MD Reykjavik

CONTENT LIST FROM THE EDITOR

In many countries, March means that spring is around the corner. We have to wait a little bit longer for it to reach all the way up to the subarctic north but the day we are really looking forward to is March 20, the equinox!

Iceland is a dark place during winter. We have been getting a little more sun every day since December when at best, you could hope for four hours of sunshine. It always feels good when the sun starts rising before you have to go to work and by the time the equinox rolls around, it is nothing but the sunny days (and nights) of summer for the good people of Reykjavík!

To mark the occasion, the Imagine Peace tower is lit on the night of the equinox and for the following week, so make sure to look up at the night sky to see if you can spot the single beam of white light reaching towards the stars. Otherwise, the locals do not really celebrate but you will be sure to notice a little more spring in people’s steps and perhaps even a sunnier attitude.

WHAT’S ON — VOLUME 43 — ISSUE 3

Published by: MD Reykjavík ehf. Laugavegur 5, 101 Reykjavik. Tel.: 551-3600

Publisher: Sigurþór Marteinn Kjartansson

Distribution: dreifing@whatson.is

Tel: 830-3629

Luckily, no matter the season, there is always something going on in the city. At the beginning of the month, children of Reykjavík celebrate carnival (öskudagur) by singing for candy in shops and other companies. The people of Reykjavík will be flocking to the city’s restaurants for the Food & Fun festival, where international chefs join Icelanders in the kitchen to produce creative feasts with local ingredients. Just remember to get out of the city as well, that is where they keep those impressive landscapes your Instagram is begging for!

Welcome to Reykjavík!

Map of Reykjavík: Friðrik Bjarnason

Editor: Guðmundur F. Magnússon

Content writers: The What’s On Team

Ad sales: Reynir Elís Þorvaldsson, reynir@whatson.is

Printing: Printall AS

WHAT‘S ON IN REYKJAVÍK is published monthly, covering events and happenings in and around Reykjavík. Opinions expressed in WHAT‘S ON IN REYKJAVÍK are those of the individual authors. While every effort has been made to ensure the information presented is accurate, prices, times, dates and other information may be subject to change.

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Yes, it is still cold. And the last remnants of darkness remain. But there are still plenty of wintery things to do before spring finally turns up! Don‘t miss out on having a great time in Reykjavík!

Here are What’s On’s tips for this month:

Head to one of the Spas around town and soak your cold and tired bones. That is the true Icelandic way to survive the winter!

Go and indulge in some ice cream after your trip to the pool, just like the locals. (And no, ice cream in the winter actually makes a lot of sense!)

Go skiing! The Bláfjöll mountains are only a 30-minute drive from the city centre!

Eat some traditional Icelandic food – why not try plokkfiskur (fish stew) or íslensk kjötsúpa (lamb meat soup)?

Head to the Reykjavík Food & Fun Festival for some delicious treats.

Book a Northern Lights tour and experience some magical aurora right above you. March is one of the last months of the season!

While you’re checking things off the list, snap some photos and tag #whatsonrvk on Instagram.

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Staff Recommendations

JÖKULSÁRLÓN GLACIAL LAGOON is one of the absolute highlights of Iceland for many travelers, with the floating icebergs on the small lagoon making it look like another world. The lagoon is located quite far from the capital though, and driving there takes five hours without taking stops into account, meaning it is too far for a day trip for most people, especially in the winter with limited daylight. We recommend going for a two day tour there, in order to make use of the daylight and to avoid spending most of the day in the car. This 2-day South Coast Tour including Jökulsárlón is a great option to take it all in more slowly and enjoy the scenery of the south, including an ice cave in Vatnajökull, waterfalls Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Gljúfrabúi and Írafoss. Skaftafell and the Diamond Beach will be observed on the second day as well as the glacial lagoon.

The bay is also full of birdlife. Surrounding landscapes offer a beautiful contrast to the vast sea, with stunning mountains on the horizon creating a picturesque backdrop.

It is well worth exploring restaurants outside the downtown area, although many of the best restaurants are in downtown for sure. Another great restaurant we could recommend is 27 mathús & bar in Kópavogur, nearby Heiðmörk forest area. You could go for a walk in the beautiful forest surroundings of Elliðavatn followed by a delicious meal at 27 mathús & bar, where the cuisine is Spanish and Mediterranean, but of course the main ingredients are local.

NORTHERN LIGHTS are a reason for many to visit Iceland in the winter, a natural phenomenon that you need to see to believe. This small group tour includes complimentary wool blankets, hot chocolate and traditional pastries. The maximum number of guests on each tour is 19 in order to keep it a personal, crowd-free experience.

LAUGARDALSLAUG is the biggest geothermal swimming pool in Reykjavík, where people go to relax, socialize and of course exercise. After a refreshing visit to the pool, visit the nearby restaurant Indó-Italian, offering excellent food based on Indian and Italian traditions. The service is absolute top and the atmosphere is laid back.

& Treat your taste buds at two historical food halls: Hlemmur 101 and Grandi at the old harbour.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU ONLY HAVE ONE DAY TO SPEND IN ICELAND

Our first piece of advice if you have just one day to spend in Iceland is to change your flight and stay for at least a week. If that’s not an option, here’s what we suggest to get the most out of this unique destination in such a short time.

If you just want to see the highlights

The Golden Circle is the most popular day tour from Reykjavík – and it’s easy to see why. The classic route includes three stops that also happen to be three of the most captivating natural wonders in Iceland. Tour operators may add their own twists, but you’re sure to stop at Þingvellir, a national park straddling the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates; Gullfoss, an awe-inspiring waterfall that lends its name to the Golden Circle (gull translates to gold); and the Geysir geothermal area, with an erupting hot spring guaranteed to impress. You can complete the Golden Circle in half a day (depending on the tour you book), leaving you time to squeeze more into your short stay.

If you want to visit the newest lava field

The Reykjanes peninsula continues to remind us why Iceland is known as the Land of Ice and Fire. There have been eruptions on and off on the peninsula since 2021. The eruption sites are approximately an hour drive from Reykjavík and some of the recent lava fields are accessible to people that can handle hiking for up to five hours or so. Another option is seeing the lava fields from

the birds-eye by choosing a helicopter tour over the area. Seeing these freshly made lava fields first-hand is a spectacle and a reminder of nature’s fury. Please do not walk on the young lava fields, because lava takes years to fully cool down. There may be molten lava beneath the seemingly solid surface. Check out safetravel.is for the latest safety information regarding the Reykjanes peninsula.

If you want to see a glacier

There’s no better way to get a feel for the latter half of Iceland’s “Land of Fire and Ice” moniker than to go on a glacier hike. Glacier hikes are relatively easy and accessible for most, especially because professional gear is provided. You get to walk on a glacier with guides who know everything there is to know about glaciers and Iceland in general. What’s cooler than that?

If you want a little luxury

What’s better than a spa day? Visiting a geothermal spa fed by Europe’s most powerful hot spring, Deildartunguhver. At Krauma Natural Geothermal Baths, the water from the hot spring is mixed with cool glacial water for a perfect temperature. It has five hot tubs and one cold bath, plus a relaxation room, two steam baths and an infrared sauna. Alternatively, if you don’t want to leave the capital area, book the seven-step “Ritual” at the Sky Lagoon for a luxurious afternoon of soaking, steaming, scrubbing and other soothing activities.

If you want an adrenaline rush

Are you looking for a thrill? Go on a buggy ride. A buggy is a fast, sturdy and stable ATV, perfect for anyone who loves to get their blood pumping in the great outdoors – and who doesn’t mind getting a little dirty in the process. Driving a buggy through rough Icelandic terrain, over mud puddles, dirt roads or snow, makes for an exhilarating day.

If you want to hit the high seas

Marine life abounds in the water around Iceland, and you can see everything from harbour porpoises and white-beaked dolphins to minke and humpback whales on a whale watching tour. Tour boats depart Reykjavík’s old harbour throughout the day, cruising to the spots where sightings are most likely. Nothing beats the thrill of seeing a massive whale breach or watching one slap its enormous flukes on the water’s surface. If you have a few hours to spare before or after the cruise (or if you get seasick and a cruise is out of the question), check out the Whales of Iceland exhibition to learn more about these gentle giants.

Stop by the What’s On information centre, or send us an email, info@whatson.is , and ask the staff to help you plan an unforgettable vacation.

Taste the best of iceland

ICELANDIC GOURMET FEAST

Starts with a shot of the infarmous Icelandic spirit Brennivín

late night dining

Our kitchen is open until 23:00 on weekdays and 24:00 on weekends

Followed by 7 delicious tapas

• Smoked puffin with blueberry “brennivín” sauce

• Icelandic arctic char with candy beets salad, asparagus and elderflower-hollandaise

• Lobster tails baked in garlic

• Pan-fried blue ling with lobster sauce

• Grilled Icelandic lamb tenderloin with beer-butterscotch sauce

• Minke Whale with sweet potato mash and malt sauce

And for dessert:

• White chocolate "Skyr" mousse with passion coulis

12.900 kr.

How to Travel Safely in Iceland

With a subarctic climate and a tiny population, Iceland is a little different from other popular travel destinations. Desolate landscapes, extreme weather, mountain roads, geothermal areas, and the ocean can all catch the unprepared off-guard. Keep the following six safety guidelines in mind when planning your trip to Iceland.

1. Familiarise yourself with Iceland’s emergency numbers

The emergency number in Iceland is 112. You can dial it free of charge to reach emergency services like ambulances, rescue teams, and the police, and there is also a 112 app that can send your information to emergency services at the press of a button.

2. Follow updates on Safetravel.is

Icelandic weather is infamously fickle, and extreme weather is not uncommon. In wintertime, high wind speeds and snow can frequently limit visibility. Safetravel.is offers up-to-date road condition maps, weather alerts, and plenty of helpful tips and information on the best and safest way to travel around the country. There’s an app for that, too. It’s well worth downloading and checking regularly throughout your travels.

3. Be extra careful when visiting geothermal areas

The water in geothermal areas can reach temperatures upward of 100°C. Falling in or slipping can result in severe burns. Safe paths are clearly marked, so stick to them, and never walk on ground that is steaming.

WHAT’S ON

4. Keep a safe distance from the ocean

Sneaker waves – disproportionally large waves that encroach farther onto shore than regular waves – are frequent occurrences at the Reynisfjara and Kirkjufjara beaches in South Iceland. Sneaker waves are more powerful than people expect, and accidents have proven fatal in the past. Keep a safe distance from the water and observe nearby signs.

5. Stay on the path

Whether visiting a waterfall, a geothermal area, or hiking in the mountains, staying on the marked footpath is imperative. Respect when paths are closed and heed all signs. It’s closed for a reason, either to protect you or fragile nature.

6. Let someone know where you’re going

If you’re planning on hiking or hitchhiking, let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll be back. You can also upload your travel plan to www.safetravel.is.

7 FACTS YOU (PROBABLY)

1. Liberty, Equality, Fraternity... Volcanicity?

DON’T KNOW

ABOUT VOLCANOES

The 1783-4 eruption of Laki was the biggest eruption in recorded history. An estimated 42 billion tonnes of poisonous gases and dust darkened the skies. Haze from the eruption floated east as far away as India, disrupting the monsoon season and leading to drought and crop failures. The famine that hit Egypt in 1784, was a result of the eruption, and killed roughly one-sixth of its population. Back in Iceland, an estimated 20–25% of the population died from famine, and over half the livestock was poisoned or killed by giant hailstones. Food shortages contributed to social unrest across Europe and contributed to the French Revolution of 1789 that gave birth to western democracy.

2. And in second Place…

Iceland was also the site of the second biggest emission in recorded history: the 2014 eruption of Bárðarbunga. In just 6 months, Bárðarbunga produced enough lava to cover the island of Manhattan - 85km2

3. Enter the Volcano

In Jules Verne’s Journey to the Centre of the Earth, the heroes climb down a crater on the Snæfellsnes peninsula to find vast oceans filled with extinct prehistoric creatures. While an encounter with a herd of mastodons is unlikely, a trip to Þríhnúkagígur (Thrihnukagigur) still feels pretty Jules Verne. Þríhnúkagígur is the only volcano in the world

where you can descend into the magma chamber. Discovered in 1974 and opened to the public in 2012.

4. New Earth

Surtsey, Iceland’s most southern point was formed by a volcanic eruption at the bottom of the ocean and emerged from the water on November 14, 1963. It was immediately granted protection by law, and to this day, only scientists are allowed to go there, and even they have to get special permission. This means that we have been able to monitor how life settles on a brand-new land from the beginning, which has, of course, been invaluable to scientists.

5. SuperFresh Lava

Iceland has a third of the world’s fresh lava. ‘Fresh’ is a relative term that may need defining. When discussing Arctic Char, it’s best measured in hours. In geological time fresh lava means lava that’s less than five hundred years old. Iceland is full of these ‘Here’s one I prepared earlier’ landscapes offering snapshots of geological time and processes.

6. Icelandic volcanoes are on the move!

Due to changes in on the tectonic level of the earth, Iceland’s volcanoes are actually moving east. Veeeeeeeery slowly. If you visited Iceland 20 million years ago, the volcanoes would all have been situated in the West Fjords. Fifty million years ago, during the Eocene epoch, you would find our volcanoes living happily in Greenland, and 70

million years ago, our volcanoes would have been terrorising dinosaurs somewhere in Canada.

7. Iceland has had volcanic eruptions every year since 2021

The island has somewhere between 150-200 volcanoes, split into different volcanic systems. About 30 different systems are still considered “active” in Iceland, and 13 of them have erupted since the Viking Settlement in 874. The current “wave” of eruptions began in Fagradalsfjall on the Reykjanes peninsula in 2021. Geologists believe this current phase could last decades, if not centuries - a powerful reminder of nature’s might!

The Northern Lights

Now that the darkness of night has returned in full, Icelanders and tourists alike can be seen craning their necks and watching the sky for the magnificent Aurora Borealis. The northern lights are actually the results of sun flares caused by magnetic storms on the sun‘s surface. These flares send bursts of charged particles (electrons, ions, atoms) into outer space through the Sun’s corona.

If this burst is in the direction of Earth, these charged particles can cause northern lights to appear near the Earth’s poles. Oxygen and nitrogen particles in the Earth’s atmosphere can collide with charged particles from the Sun’s atmosphere.

This collision causes the Earth’s particles to get into a high-energy state, and when they return

to their normal state, they release a photon, causing them to light up. This light is a form of electromagnetic radiation, reaching the Earth along with radio waves. When billions of these collisions occur, the oxygen and nitrogen in the atmosphere emit enough light for the eye to detect them, resulting in bright green, white, red and purple colours to dance across the sky.

Seeing the lights is a magical experience, and we recommend seeking them out while you’re in Iceland. However, there are a few things every northern lights hunter should keep in mind. The northern lights aren’t a reliable attraction and seeing them can be a matter of being in the right spot at the right time. It’s not all down to luck, however, as there are a few things you can do to maximise your chances of seeing the ethereal lights.

Different ways to see the northern lights:

Going by coach:

Cheap and effective. A northern lights tour by bus or minibus is a good way to see the lights if you’re not too concerned about being surrounded by a lot of people and simply travelling by bus. Perhaps not the best time if you don’t see anything – but it’s the cheapest option to see the lights, and it gets the job done.

Going by boat:

A great experience regardless of lights. Going by boat is a very good choice for those who want to ensure they get something out of their tour even if no lights are found. Being out at sea and viewing the city lights from the water is in itself a great experience.

Top 8 tips for the northern lights

Lie down on the ground. Look up. Enjoy! 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

GET OUT OF TOWN

The city lights block the northern lights!

MAKE SURE IT’S DARK

Daylight and northern lights don’t go hand in hand

MAKE SURE THE SKY IS CLEAR

The northern lights appear way above the clouds!

GIVE IT TIME AND BE PATIENT!

The northern lights don’t come out by order – be patient and you might get lucky!

SIGHTINGS CAN NEVER BE GUARANTEED

So we’d recommend a tour that includes some great activity as well as northern lights hunt – so you won’t feel disappointed!

WEAR SOMETHING WARM

It can get seriously cold, especially when the sky is clear and you’re waiting for a long time.

KNOW YOUR CAMERA!

Taking photos with a flash won’t work. Ever. A tripod and long exposure are your friends!

ENJOY IT!

Book your northern lights tour now online or at the What’s On tourist information centre, at Laugavegur 5.

Going by super-jeep:

Exclusive and thrilling. Going on a hunt for the lights with a specially modified superjeep is a thrilling experience that’s fun and exciting. Sights can of course never be guaranteed, but the off-road action of a superjeep makes for a great adventure, the lights are just an added bonus.

NORTHERN LIGHTS PHOTOGRAPHY DO s AND DON'Ts

DO have a relatively good camera with you that allows for easy and quick change of settings.

DON’T rule out taking a photo on your phone’s camera.

DO have your ISO set to at least 800 and your aperture as low as it goes.

DON’T forget your tripod. However little you think you move while waiting for your camera to take your picture, believe me, you always move and it’s enough to make your photos blurry.

DO keep your shutter speed anywhere between 5 to 30 seconds, although the optimal would be between 5 and 20 seconds (30 seconds is only for very faint lights, basically).

DON’T forget to plan ahead when booking your northern lights tour- finding a stable surface on a boat is difficult, and large group tours might make your photography session more difficult.

DO consider using continuous shooting, so that while shooting the lights, you don’t have to keep staring at them through your camera.

DON’T focus solely on your photographs and forget to be in the moment. You don’t see the northern lights every day!

If you need any more information, check out www.whatson.is or stop by the What’s On information office at Laugavegur 5.

HOW TO READ THE NORTHERN LIGHTS FORECAST

The northern lights forecast can be found on en.vedur.is/weather/forecasts/aurora/, but it is a little hard to decipher if you’ve never seen it before. Our handy-dandy guide should make things a little bit easier.

Going on a tour?

There are many tours taking you far from the bright city lights for a better chance of seeing the aurora. These tours will be cancelled if there is no chance of seeing the lights. All major operators can be trusted to do this, first of all, because there is a high standard of professionalism in Iceland, but more importantly, because they lose money if they take you out needlessly – most of them promise to take you out again for free if you don’t see anything.

The Colours

White means no clouds while dark green means very cloudy. The different shades of green then mean more, or less, cloudy.

The numbers

The numbers are a combination of how likely it is for the lights to be active and how active they will be. Don’t be discouraged if the number is low, it’s actually very rare for the number to be higher than five. Also, take the scale with a grain of salt; a low number doesn’t mean that they won’t come out or won’t be impressive, and a high number isn’t a guarantee that they will be glorious all through the night.

WELCOME TO PARADISE

Bíó Paradís is Iceland’s first and only art-house cinema, located in the heart of downtown Reykjavík. We screen the latest independent movies from around the world, as well as classic cult films and local Icelandic filmsmany with English subtitles.

We provide a warm, cozy environment for film lovers of all kinds, both in our three-screen cinema and in our well-stocked bar & café. Join our legendary weekly Party screenings - sometimes we Sing-Along. You can also just drop in for drinks and snacks, our ice-cold beer is on Happy Hour every day between 5-7 pm. A true haven for those seeking thoughtprovoking films and vibrant social gatherings!

PARTY SCREENINGS IN MARCH

ZOOLANDER (2001)

Friday March 7 @9pm

At the end of his career, a clueless fashion model is brainwashed to kill the Prime Minister of Malaysia. Ben Stiller, Owen Wilson & Will Ferrell, need we say more!

SCOTT PILGRIM VS. THE WORLD (2010)

Friday March 14 @9pm

In a magically realistic version of Toronto, a young man must defeat his new girlfriend’s seven evil exes one by one in order to win her heart.

FRIDAY (1995)

Friday March 21 @9pm

Craig and Smokey are two guys in Los Angeles hanging out on their porch on a Friday afternoon, smoking and drinking, looking for something to do.

FRIGHT NIGHT (1985)

Friday March 28 @9pm

wwA high school student, accidentally discovers the true and creepy nature of his dashing and enigmatic new neighbor; but no one seems willing to believe him.

TASTY LOCAL CUISINE

By The Old Harbour

SKÁL! TO BEER DAY!

There are all sorts of novelty holidays you could observe if you were so inclined. There’s Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day in January, while World UFO Day is in July, and Talk Like a Pirate Day comes around every September.

But our favourite unofficial holiday – though still far more official than anything listed above – is Beer Day, which thirsty Icelanders observe every March 1.

BEER DAY? REALLY?

Yes, really! Beer was banned in Iceland for decades, but the kegs started pouring forth their frothy amber liquid once more on March 1, 1989, and a holiday was born!

THE WHOLE STORY

Beer wasn’t the only adult beverage banned in Iceland. In fact, in 1908, Icelanders voted in favour of prohibition, which came into effect at the start of 1915.

But total prohibition was short-lived, and not only because home brewing and the black-market were booming. It was actually pressure from Spain that resulted in some alcohol being reintroduced

to Iceland. At that time, Spain was buying a lot of Iceland’s number one export (cod), but Iceland wasn’t reciprocating by importing Spanish wine.

So wine was back on Iceland’s shelves in 1921.

Then the legislation was amended again in 1933 to allow for the sale of spirits. But not beer, as the temperance lobby was worried that allowing the sale of inexpensive beer in the country would result in a nation of dribbling drunkards. Instead, Icelanders would toss back “bjórlíki”, or “imitation beer”, made by mixing stronger spirits with low- or no-alcohol pilsners. They say hindsight is 20/20, but that really doesn’t strike us as a more sensible alternative to just permitting beer.

But Icelanders were fine with the status quo for another 56 beer-free years. By the time the 80s rolled around, Icelanders were travelling abroad and soaking up Europe’s beer culture, and soon longed to import that experience.

It wasn’t a clear-cut case, though. Some MPs thought allowing beer would cause young people to start drinking earlier and that people would be drinking beer at all hours of the day, even getting drunk at work. One MP even raised her concerns that beer would replace coffee as the nation’s drink of choice.

Still, on March 1, 1989 Icelanders could walk into their local pub and order a beer.

Today Beer Day is celebrated by drinking a beer or two, with some bars even offering select suds at 1989 prices. Skál!

CELEBRATING BEER DAY

Reykjavík’s beer culture has been booming in recent years, with a handful of craft breweries popping up and churning out some solid brews, which also appears to be inspiring some of the old dogs to learn a few new tricks and produce some more creative seasonal offerings.

HERE’S WHERE TO GRAB A DRINK THIS BEER DAY.

Session Craft Bar (Bankastræti 14) occupies a prime perch right over the junction where Laugavegur, Bankastræti and Skólavörðustígur meet, so you can do some primo people watching while sampling from their truly impressive offerings. This place boasts a cooled keg room to guarantee the best quality pours and a motto of “If we don’t sell it, it’s because it’s not good enough…” These guys know their beer.

Skúli Craft Bar (Aðalstræti 9) was possibly the first bar in Reykjavík to really celebrate craft beer culture. There’s always an interesting selection of beers on the white-board menu above the bar, so whether you’re hankering for a sour, an IPA or a saison, you’ll find something to wet your whistle.

Kaldi Bar (Laugavegur 20B) is a popular bar serving up their own line of Kaldi beers in their cosy but always lively atmosphere. There are around a dozen beers in Kaldi’s arsenal, from light to dark and everything in between. It’s a cosy place to start the night.

BrewDog (Frakkastígur 8) is a Scottish import that put down roots in Reykjavík some years back to bring a taste of international beer culture to Iceland. The lively bar slash restaurant slings BrewDog’s own line of craft beers, plus a rotating selection of guest beers and ciders from Icelandic breweries.

Einstök Bar (Laugavegur 10) is the new home to one of Iceland’s most successful breweries. Born in 2011 and brewed in Akureyri in the north of Iceland, Einstök quickly gained the attention of consumers and critics alike. Their ales have won international beer awards, and their distribution has brought Icelandic beer arguably further across the globe than any other company. Stop in and quench your thirst with an unbeatable beer.

This

HALLGRÍMSKIRKJA

What does it look like?

It looks like a giant white …finger. Yes. Finger. The Hallgrímskirkja church is probably the best-known landmark in Reykjavík, along with Perlan. It’s the last work of architect Guðjón Samúelsson, one of the most prolific architects of Iceland. His work usually drew inspiration from Icelandic nature in some way and Hallgrímskirkja is no exception, conjuring the mountains and glaciers of Iceland along with the iconic columnar igneous rock. Guðjón started sketching the church in 1937 and they started building it in 1945. It wasn’t completely finished until 1986, although parts of the church had been ready for a long time at that point, even consecrated so the unfinished church could be put to use.

Why is there a Viking statue in front of the church? It’s thanks to the Americans, actually. They gave us the statue to commemorate the thousand-year anniversary of Iceland’s parliament, Alþingi. The statue is a likeness of Leifur Eiríksson, or Leif the

lucky, the Norse Viking that is rumoured to have been to America centuries before Christopher Columbus. It might seem strange to place a Viking statue in front of a church, but actually, it was the other way around. The statue got there in 1932, but they didn’t start building the church until 1945. Another thing about the location of the statue, it is in the heart of Reykjavík today, in front of Reykjavík’s most famous landmark, but in 1932, the churchless hill was on the outskirts of Reykjavík, most of the town’s inhabitants lived down by the pond.

How

I get to the top of the tower?

You take the elevator! For a small fee, you’ll be rewarded with a view to die for. Hallgrímskirkja is the second tallest building in Reykjavík and seeing the rows of the multi-coloured houses in the centre all laid out neatly like doll’s houses, and further away, the bright blue sea and mount Esja, is really something you shouldn’t miss.

ONE OF THE FOOD WONDERS OF THE WORLD

ICELANDIC LAMB IS THE FIRST ICELANDIC FOOD PRODUCT TO BE PDO-MARKED

Icelandic lamb has acquired the PDO label, the highest level of geographical indication in Europe, placing it in the company of the world's best-known and most sought-after quality products.

FOOD AND FUN LARGER THAN EVER

Food and Fun is an annual culinary festival in downtown Reykjavík. This year’s event will be the 24th edition of the city’s most enticing events and will take place from March 12 to 16. Food and Fun brings chefs from all over the world to Reykjavík. There, they get the chance to work with local restaurants and Icelandic ingredients. Many local restaurants participate in the event. During the festival, Reykjavík is the place to be for foodies and food lovers!

HISTORY

In 2003, when February and March were still off-season months in Iceland, the idea was born to organise a competition between Icelandic and

foreign chefs to brighten up Icelandic winter. In this competition, culinary professionals from all over the world work together with Icelandic restaurants. From the very beginning, foreign chefs have shown the project great interest, and fewer have been able to participate than wanted. This has thus become an internationally renowned gastronomical festival that attracts chefs and guests from all over the world to Reykjavík to join up with the local restaurant scene and participate in a cooking event.

The goal is to develop exciting menus based on surprising combinations and flavour experiments. Bringing more people to Iceland in the dark winter months to enjoy a food festival has been a success. The festival has thousands of visitors each year!

ICELANDIC INGREDIENTS

As the main purpose of the Festival has been to attract tourists to Iceland and gain media coverage of different aspects of the country‘s agricultural and seafood products, the guest chefs are required to use only Icelandic material for the centrepiece of their dishes. The emphasis of the festival, then, lies on Icelandic ingredients, like fresh fish, freerange lamb and organic dairy products. All are grown sustainably in the clean surroundings of the Icelandic countryside and the Atlantic Ocean.

The best Icelandic basics are mixed with exotic ingredients, like Icelandic wasabi, resulting in exciting new creations. Culinary professionals from

all over the world have shown great enthusiasm for working with Icelandic produce. Because of the festival, Icelandic skyr is now also used as an ingredient in several savoury recipes, where it was originally only viewed as a sweet dessert or breakfast item. New viewpoints, angles, and outlooks bring professional cooking to a higher level.

During the festival, famous chefs are invited to rate the recipes and food that have been designed for the festival. From all the finalists, three are chosen to compete for the Food and Fun Chef of the Year Award.

THIS YEAR

Several of Reykjavík’s most exciting restaurants will pair up with internationally renowned chefs. Among the Icelandic restaurants are Apotek Kitchen Bar, EIRIKSSON Brasserie, Fiskmarkaðurinn, OTO and Sushi Social. An exciting lineup of chefs from around the world is expected!

THE ONLY PENIS MUSEUM IN THE WORLD

and the most visited museum in Iceland

The Icelandic Phallological Museum, the worldʹs only penis museum, is located in the heart of Reykjavik, right by the old harbor.

The family friendly museum sports the largest penis collection on Earth, which even includes a cast of Jimi Hendrix from the late Cynthia ‘Plaster Caster’ Albritton. Visitors get a unique tongue-in-cheek opportunity to engage in comparative anatomy with the organs of hundreds of different species.

Enjoy food and drinks at the Phallic Café bistro

The museum also has a penis themed bistro where we serve our famous penis waffles, handcrafted local beers, penis themed cocktails and amazing coffee and tea from small batch local companies.

DayTours

FOR ALL LEVELS OF RIDERS

EXPERIENCE THE UNIQUE ICELANDIC HORSE

Íshestar has been offering horseback riding tours in Iceland since 1982, welcoming riders of all levels to explore Icelandic nature on our friendly Icelandic horses. Ride through stunning lava fields, rolling hills, and breathtaking landscapes just 15 minutes from Reykjavík city centre.

Established in 1982 – We have over 40 years of experience providing horseback riding adventures.

We offer a wide range of short rides, like the Lava Tour through lava fields, the Horses and WafflesTour with a sweet treat afterward, the Viking Tour for a powerful adventure, and Private Rides.

Beginners & Experienced riders welcome

Experienced Guides – Our knowledgeable, multilingual guides ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all riders.

Sörlaskeið 26, Hafnarfjörður

354-555-7000

www.ishestar.is

info@ishestar.is

In countries where Lent is observed, the holiday is usually preceded by a carnival. Most Icelanders are not Catholic and therefore do not observe Lent, but that’s no reason not to have a holiday or three. The Icelandic version is, however, not what you’d expect.

BOLLUDAGUR - CREAM PUFF DAY,

March 3

Bolludagur, which roughly translates to “Cream Puff Day” in English, is the first in a row of three peculiar holidays that constitute the Icelandic Carnival. Bolludagur is celebrated on the Monday six weeks before Easter, so the actual date is different every year. It’s believed that bakers from Denmark or Norway introduced the custom to Icelanders in the middle of the 19th century. It’s those people we have to thank for bringing the delicious bolludagsbolla to Iceland.

Bolla is the Icelandic word for all sorts of circular pastries. The bolludagsbolla, however, is something special. It’s a choux pastry bun traditionally filled with jam and whipped cream and topped with a

day revolves around so much more. According to tradition, you cannot buy your own bolla – someone has to buy it for you. And if you manage to spank someone before they get up in the morning, they owe you a bolla. Children all over Iceland arm themselves with a bolludagsvöndur (a paper paddle specially made for the occasion) on the Sunday before Bolludagur. When they wake up the following day, they creep into their parents’ room and spank them repeatedly while yelling “Bolla!” over and over again. Doesn’t that sound like a great way to start your Monday morning?

SPRENGIDAGUR - SHROVE TUESDAY, March 4

Sprengidagur (literally: Bursting Day), is Iceland’s version of Shrove Tuesday, which Icelanders

celebrate by eating as much as they can of boiled, corned (salt-preserved) lamb (or horsemeat) and split pea soup. It’s delicious! This holiday falls on the Tuesday after Bolludagur. On Sprengidagur, every Icelandic home, as well as most restaurants, is flooded with the aroma of salted meat and peas. Why is it called Bursting Day? You should eat until you feel like you’re going to burst (think Monty Python’s Mr Creosote). Remember, this comes just after a day dedicated to stuffing your face with a huge amount of cream puffs.

Lent is not something Icelanders actually observe, not anymore at least, but for some reason, there’s still a special day for filling up on treats before Lent. It’s basically a celebration of gluttony, so enjoy it!

ÖSKUDAGUR - ASH WEDNESDAY, March 5

WANT TO MAKE YOUR OWN BOLLUR? HERE’S A RECIPE!

Ash Wednesday is, in most countries, a solemn day. It’s the first day of Lent, a time of fasting and prayer, in which people give up something they enjoy to remember Jesus’s 40 days in the desert. In Iceland, however, children dress up in costumes and sing songs for candy. It’s sort of like the Icelandic version of Halloween, without the pagan undertones. The children only beg for candy in shops and businesses (in Reykjavík and the bigger towns, at least), so Laugavegur and the shopping malls are filled with kids of all ages in costumes of all shapes and sizes. The children are expected to earn their candy by singing a song, a tradition that excites the young ones and at least a part of the older generations as well.

If by any chance you are travelling to Iceland with a child, you might want to look into this. If not, keep

BOLLUR - Cream puffs

4dl water

160g butter

250g flour

¼ teaspoon baking powder

5 eggs

We start by mixing water with butter in a pot, bringing it to boil. Add the flour and baking powder and mix fiercely, until the mixture gathers up in a ball of dough when you stir it. Remove from heat and let cool for a while. Add the eggs, one by one, stirring well in between each one. Pipe the dough on a baking sheet (or spoon it on if you’re not that fussy about their shape) and be careful to keep a good space between them – the puff part of the name is there for a reason. Bake for 30-35 minutes at 210°C or until golden brown. Be careful not to open the oven before you think the puffs are ready! The outer crust must be well baked, so the puffs hold their structure and don’t collapse in on themselves.

For the perfect Icelandic bolla, fill the puff with jam and whipped cream and top it with a chocolate glaze. If you’re feeling adventurous, fill it with whatever you like! Caramel pudding, ice cream, and Nutella all spring to mind.

Good luck!

Our service team is on duty 24/7 and will happily assist you at any time. Check out our tours and prices on our website.

wonderland

Even though Iceland doesn’t have high mountains like Switzerland, it is a ski paradise – if you know where to go. Bláfjöll is a popular ski area situated just half an hour outside of Reykjavík. It’s the largest ski resort in Iceland, with runs of varying difficulty levels. Hlíðarfjall in North Iceland is Akureyri’s topnotch ski resort. Floodlit slopes guarantee skiing in the dark winter months. Iceland also has a lot to offer for cross-country skiing and heli-skiing enthusiasts.

On a clear day, glacier hiking is one of the most amazing things you can do in wintry Iceland! The glacial tongue Sólheimajökull offers excellent options for short, easy, and beautiful hikes, with a breathtaking view over the glacier and the south coast of Iceland. Glaciers are beautiful but tricky; that’s why it’s only safe to go on a hike with an

If hiking isn’t your thing, you can also go snowmobiling, which is possible on the glaciers Langjökull, Mýrdalsjökull, and Vatnajökull. You will

be brought to the snowmobile starting point on top of the glacier by either glacier truck or super jeep. After putting on a warm overall and helmet, you are ready to go on an exhilarating ride over the ice. It’s the coolest way to enjoy the beautiful view of the glacier and its surroundings.

SNORKELLING IN SILFRA

Iceland offers great opportunities for underwater adventures, as you can snorkel between two tectonic plates. Snorkelling or diving in the Silfra fissure in Þingvellir National Park is a fantastic experience; the lava-rock filtered glacier water is some of the cleanest in the world and provides impressive visibility. The water is 2-4°C all year round, but don’t worry, a dry or wet suit will protect you from (most of) the cold.

EXPLORE THE WORLD BENEATH

An ice cave tour is a great winter activity. You can only visit natural ice caves in the wintertime since they are unsafe in summer. You can find ice caves in different areas of Iceland, even (an artificial one) in Reykjavík! The longest man-made ice tunnel in the world is available any time of year. It’s in Langjökull glacier and offers a unique glimpse of the insides of a glacier!

SPOT THE NORTHERN LIGHTS

Northern lights can be seen everywhere in Iceland in winter, but you need to be far away from the city lights dimming your view to get a good look at them. Northern lights tours take you away from the city on

a night when the auroras are active. Remember to wrap up and be patient; it might take a while for them to show. If the northern lights don’t cooperate on the night of your tour, you can usually try again for free.

KEEP YOUR PLANS FLEXIBLE

The weather in Iceland is fickle, and the most important thing is to stay safe. By all means, make plans, but be prepared to change them if the weather is acting up. Check the weather forecast before you set off, and don’t risk driving far if the weather is bad! If you’re not used to driving in wintry conditions or feel uncomfortable, take a guided tour instead.

For more information, check out the link or visit the What’s On Information Centres on Laugavegur.

Laxnes Horse Farm is a family owned and operated business with our horses being part of the family and treated as such. We offer a variety of day tours, combo tours and daily private tours. Please visit our site www.laxnes.is for further information and frequently asked questions.

Our Tours

Laxnes Special

A trek on the hardy, sure-footed Icelandic horse is an experience to remember. Whether you are a beginner or expert, old or young, these friendly horses, with their alert and willing nature are indeed a pleasure to ride in their natural surroundings.

Laxnes Private Tour

The private tour is a variation of our Laxnes Special tour and will have daily departures by summer 2023. You´ll be able to tailor your tour time to up to two hours and enjoy the farm surroundings at your own pace.

Laxnes Combo Tours

Combine our Laxnes Special tour with a variety of different activities in one booking for a full day of adventure. Puffin or Whale watching or the Golden Circle combinations with our riding tours are just a click away on our site.

ACCESS TO 18 GYMS AND 8 SWIMMING POOLS

World Class o ers bright, spacious, and fully equipped gyms across Iceland. Enjoy a wide variety of classes and access to 8 thermal pools.

GET OUT OF THE COLD!

There really isn‘t a bad time to visit Iceland. Of course in the winter, the weather can be bad and has the potential to turn dangerous. The good news is that there is plenty to do in Reykjavík on a nasty winter day.

Many visitors to Iceland come specifically to try and see the northern lights. But, the aurora can be tricky to predict and even harder to see if it‘s cloudy or stormy. Thankfully, we have Aurora Reykjavík, an exhibition focused solely on the northern lights. You will learn about the myths and legends held by different cultures in ages past, the science behind what you are actually seeing, and a dark cinema to watch a 30-minute timelapse video of the northern lights from different spots around Iceland. You can even experience the northern lights in virtual reality!

Perlan

One of the biggest attractions in the city is Perlan, which is worth a visit even on a sunny day. The museum offers insight into Iceland’s wildlife, but the big attractions are the interactive video on volcanoes, the northern lights film inside the planetarium, and the man-made ice cave. Perlan’s unique architecture also gives visitors a 360-degree view of Reykjavík on its observation deck, and an amazing view from inside the café on the top floor.

FlyOver Iceland

If you can’t get out into nature because of bad or cold weather, FlyOver Iceland has got you covered. Experience all of Iceland’s wild beauty - glaciers,

Card, you can visit all of them free of charge! But we recommend two in particular for a cold winter day: The National Gallery and Kjarvalsstaðir. The National Gallery isn‘t just home to the best and most treasured works of art created by Icelanders but also to international artists as well. Kjarvalsstaðir is named after celebrated Icelandic artist Jóhannes S. Kjarval. The museum sits on the edge of Klambratún park for a picturesque experience. We recommend viewing Kjarval‘s paintings and grabbing a coffee in the café for a relaxing winter day.

Find A Good Café

Nothing warms you up on a frigid day like a hot cup of coffee or hot chocolate. There‘s perhaps no better way to get familiar with Icelandic culture than by getting a book by an Icelandic author – we recommend Yrsa Sigurdardóttir‘s true crime novels – and curling up in a café to people watch. Reykjavík Roasters, Kaffihús Vesturbæjar, Café Babalú and Mokka Kaffi are just a few cosy spots for a tasty cup of joe and a comfy atmosphere.

Warm Up with a Drink!

volcanoes, waterfalls, and more - from inside a building in Reykjavík! This interactive experience makes it feel like you are really flying over Iceland. Suspended from a seat in front of a gigantic screen, you will feel the cold wind in your hair, feel the mist and smell the moss as you journey around Iceland.

Walk through the National Museum

Why not get warm inside the National Museum where you can learn about Iceland’s long and fascinating history? The main exhibition is Making of a Nation, which takes you from the Viking Age through the fight for independence into modern Iceland. The National Museum displays objects that provide insight into Icelandic cultural historydisplays that encourage visitors to dwell on the past, present and future. The museum aims to nurture knowledge and innovation while maintaining a wide perspective and sense of community. Get the Reykjavík City Card for free entry to the National Museum and other museums around the city!

Art Museums

Reykjavík is home to several different art museums and galleries. If you purchase the Reykjavík City

With only 4-5 hours of daylight, it feels like it‘s always 5 o‘clock (or later) – so why not have a drink?! Whether it‘s a tall glass of red, a tasty Christmas lager, a fancy cocktail, or a bitter IPA, Reykjavík has you covered. Ölstofa is a cosy bar in the heart of downtown where it‘s easy to chat with the locals. For a delicious cocktail, head down to Slippbarinn in the old harbour. Skúli offers a wide variety of craft beers, from sours to barrel-aged porters to double IPAs. Warm up with a glass of wine in Vínstúkan Tíu Sopar, a cosy wine bar in a basement on Laugavegur. Or head to Lebowski Bar for a classic White Russian.

Take a Dip

Yes, we go to the pool in winter. If you can stomach the walk from the changing rooms to the water, it is worth it. Once you plop down in the steaming hot water, you will forget the cold of winter. The pool is a great place to meet and chat with locals. But if you are looking for a more luxurious experience, just head over to Kópavogur and visit the Sky Lagoon and relax with their 7-step ritual, complete with sauna and mud mask. And who knows, if you go in the evening and the skies are clear, you may even see the northern lights from the warmth of the geothermally heated water!

THE SITUATION ON THE REYKJANES PENINSULA

At the time of writing, the most recent eruption on the Reykjanes peninsula began on November 20 and finished on 9 December. While the string of eruptions that began in Iceland in 2021 first proved to be a largely harmless tourist attraction, the effect on the town of Grindavík has been a reminder to take these forces of nature seriously.

Grindavík was opened to the public again on 21 October after being closed with exceptions for residents and other relevant people for over a year. Visitors still need to exercise caution. Lava that appears dry and cool can still be molten just below the surface.

Many visitors are also curious about the impact on the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal lagoon on the Reykjanes peninsula, and one of Iceland’s mostvisited tourist destinations. Since the beginning of the volcanic unrest on the Reykjanes peninsula, the Blue Lagoon has had to evacuate several times. At the time of writing, the Blue Lagoon is open, but this can of course change at a moment’s notice. We recommend staying up to date and checking your

reservation online before you go. Check for the latest updates here: bluelagoon.com/seismic-activity

Geologists predict the next eruption could occur with very little notice. The rest of Iceland is not affected by these events and is safe to travel. The airport in Keflavík operates normally and flights are unlikely to be affected, even in case of another eruption.

Please keep yourself informed during your travels in Iceland and exercise common sense.

Good resources in English are:

• Daily news: Icelandreview.com

• Official travel warnings: safetravel.is,

• Icelandic Road Administration: road.is,

• The Icelandic Met Office: vedur.is

• Website of the Department of Civil Protection (https://www.almannavarnir.is/english/).

safetravel.is

road.is almannavarnir.is vedur.is

Kolagata

REYKJAVÍK CITY MAP

REYKJAVÍK sights to see

Reykjavík sightseeing has something for everyone! The city is filled with things to do, places to go, and stuff to see, but some things are just a little bit more important than others.

Check out the map in the centre of the magazine to find the exact location of these Reykjavík sights.

HALLGRÍMSKIRKJA

Hallgrímskirkja church is one of Reykjavík’s most iconic buildings and is visible from almost anywhere in the city. It’s the largest church and the 6th tallest architectural structure in Iceland. The church tower offers a fantastic view of the city. It’s named after the Icelandic poet and clergyman Hallgrímur Petursson, author of the Passion Hymns. The architect, Guðjón Samúelsson, designed it to resemble the basalt lava column flows of Iceland’s landscape. Construction started in 1945 and was finished in 1984.

PERLAN Standing at 25m, Perlan is one of Reykjavík’s most striking buildings. Built on top of the city’s hot water tanks, Perlan is known for its unique architecture. Inside Perlan, you can visit Wonders of Iceland, an exhibition spread over multiple levels. A visit to a real ice cave, planetarium shows, exhibitions on Iceland’s history, glaciers, volcanoes, and water, and a spectacular 360° viewing platform are all included in a ticket. On the top floor, there is a restaurant and coffeehouse for guests in need of refreshment. Surrounding Perlan is the Öskjuhlíð area, one of the many green spaces in Reykjavík, perfect for a walk on a sunny day.

TJÖRNIN Tjörnin (The Pond) is the heart of the city centre and offers some of the most amazing views in Reykjavík. There is no better place in the city to enjoy a beautiful sunset, and you can watch or feed a huge variety of birdlife that calls the lake home while you’re at it. When the lake freezes over in winter, geothermal water is pumped in to defrost an area for the birds and feeding them is a popular family pastime all year round. Those who can handle the cold take to the lake on ice skates.

AUSTURVÖLLUR

When the sun is shining, Austurvöllur is the place to be. Surrounded by cafés and restaurants, this public square is a popular spot for locals to dine outside, soak up some sunshine or recline on the grass with picnics. In fact, whatever the season, Austurvöllur is the place to be. It’s used for celebrations on holidays, and in December, the city’s biggest Christmas tree is located there. Due to its proximity to The House of Parliament, Austurvöllur is also a popular gathering spot for political protesters. At the centre of it all stands a statue of Jón Sigurðsson, the renowned figure who is credited with leading Iceland to independence.

GRANDI

Just off the city centre lies Reykjavík’s old harbour area. Known as Grandi, the land was originally just a stretch of sand connecting Reykjavík to Örfirisey island but has been added to considerably in the years since. For decades, this was simply an industrial neighbourhood with fish processing plants and shipyards, but when the new harbour by Sundahöfn was built, much of the industry was moved there, leaving empty buildings in a popular area waiting to be repurposed. Now Grandi is full of life, with a food hall, popular ice cream parlour Valdís, Omnom chocolate headquarters, FlyOver Iceland, Lava Show and a lot more.

HARPA The whole 28,000m2 of Harpa stand at the edge of Reykjavík Harbour. It houses Iceland’s biggest concert hall, suitable for a broad range of concerts and cultural events, a conference centre with meeting facilities and in-house catering, as well as a couple of fine restaurants. Harpa also hosts promotions, plays, and public events. Harpa was designed by a Danish firm in cooperation with Ólafur Elíasson, an Icelandic artist, and opened to the public in 2011.

THE OLD HARBOUR Though it’s the oldest harbour in its original form, Reykjavík’s Old Harbour is no longer the busiest for freight. Instead, it’s an oft-visited area where you’ll find a community of shops, galleries, electric bike and scooter rentals, and tour operators. You will also find numerous whale watching companies willing to take you out to sea on unforgettable excursions. The area is filled with excellent restaurants (pizza, seafood, burgers, etc.) and cafés. The atmosphere at the old harbour is friendly, the air is fresh and salty, and there are plenty of interesting activities to check out.

THE SUN VOYAGER A beautiful sculpture of a Viking ship located by the ocean on a small peninsula by Sæbraut, close to downtown Reykjavík. The sculpture by Jón Gunnar Árnason symbolises the Viking past of the Icelanders and is an ode to the sun. It serves as a reminder of our history and heritage when the first Viking settlers came sailing to Iceland. The Sun Voyager looks its best when the sun is setting, at whatever time that may be. The unforgettable view of the sculpture with a backdrop of the ocean and Mt. Esja is every photographer’s dream.

HOUSE

PARLIAMENT

Founded in 950 AD, Iceland’s Parliament, Alþingi, is the oldest extant parliament in the world! For centuries, the Parliament gathered in the open air (on the aptly named Þingvellir, Parliament Fields), but in recent years, the members of Parliament have met in Reykjavík. The House of Parliament is a modest classical building of hewn Icelandic dolerite, and it gives Austurvöllur square a dignified look. The Parliament garden behind the building is small but lovely in the summertime.

LAUGARDALSLAUG

Every country has traditions when it comes to leisure. Icelanders’ favourite pastime is going swimming. Laugardalslaug is the city’s largest pool with extensive facilities, located in Laugardalur valley. Its facilities include a 50m outdoor pool, an outdoor children’s pool and a paddling pool, two waterslides, numerous hot tubs, a steam bath, gym, and a mini-golf course. There really is no better place to be on a sunny day or a cold one for that matter. Right outside, you will find a hot dog stand where you can buy traditional Icelandic hot dogs.

is to present both historical and contemporary photography in an artistic, social, and cultural context, as well as to nurture public and scholarly interest in photography. The collection’s themes range from family photographs to photos from portrait studios, industrial and advertising photography, press photography, landscape

THE REYKJAVÍK ART MUSEUM

The Reykjavík Art Museum has three locations: Hafnarhús, Kjarvalsstaðir, and Ásmundarsafn. Hafnarhús serves as the museum’s institute of contemporary art, where new developments in art are explored through rotating exhibitions. An exhibition of paintings by well-known pop artist Erró is a permanent feature. Kjarvalsstaðir is devoted to one of Iceland’s most influential painters, Jóhannes Sveinsson Kjarval, and Ásmundarsafn is the former home and workshop of sculptor Ásmundur Sveinsson.

In 2001, archaeological remains of a settlement-era hall were excavated, which was inhabited from 930-1000. North of the hall, two pieces of a turf wall were found, which were built before 871. These findings are the oldest relics of human habitation found in Reykjavík. An innovative, interactive exhibition gives an impression of what life was like in those times. Objects from the age of settlement found in central Reykjavík and on Viðey island are also on display.

art collection that mainly comprises 19th- and 20thcentury artworks. The Gallery possesses many of the keystones of Icelandic art history, as well as a growing collection of works from other countries. There is also a considerable emphasis placed on contextualising Icelandic art internationally. The Gallery hosts exhibitions from both contemporary and historical artists, and an exhibition showcasing Iceland’s art history is currently on display in the House of Collections on Hverfisgata.

The nation’s most precious treasures are kept and displayed at the National Museum of Iceland. The museum was established in 1863, and it gives an insight into Iceland’s cultural heritage from the time of the settlement up to modern times. There’s a permanent exhibition of Icelandic history and culture from the settlement era on, as well as temporary exhibitions highlighting specific eras or aspects of Iceland’s cultural heritage.

Jómfrúin stands for quality tradition that is worthy of preservation. Lækjargata 4 | +354 551 0100 | jomfruin.is DANISH THE ICELANDIC WAY

Jómfruin is proud to carefully combine superb Icelandic ingredients with age-old Danish heritage so that guests can enjoy a culinary experience like no other.

BOOKS TO READ BEFORE YOU COME TO ICELAND

An extraordinary amount of books are published in Iceland each year, considering the size of the nation. The Christmas season is the most important period in publishing in Iceland because books are a particularly popular Christmas gift. The majority of books are sold in December and for a few weeks around Christmas, every Icelander is a literary critic! It’s known as the Christmas book flood, so take a dive!

THE SAGAS OF THE ICELANDERS

BY AUTHORS UNKNOWN

You can get a collection with all the sagas, but we recommend starting with the most popular ones, such as the epic Njáls Saga, the adventurous Egill’s Saga, or the romantic Laxdæla Saga. Reading these centuries-old texts is challenging but rewarding at the same time.

THE FISH CAN SING

BY HALLDÓR LAXNESS

Independent People is Halldór’s best-known novel and it is nothing short of a masterpiece, but it’s also a bleak and depressing portrait of a poor farmer’s life complete with domestic violence, class injustice, child labour, and light paedophilia. What we’re saying is that this is no fun summer read. If you think you’re up for it, by all means, go ahead, but for a more palatable taste of Laxness, we recommend picking up The Fish Can Sing, a charming coming-of-age story set in Reykjavík at the turn of the century.

DEVIL’S ISLAND

BY EINAR KÁRASON

Devil’s Island by Einar Kárason tells the story of life in Iceland after World War II, when families were living in barracks left by the US army. The rural community

in Iceland conflicted with American pop culture brought to the country by American troops during the war. The story revolves around one family and reads just like an Icelandic saga. The movie adaption of the book by director Friðrik Þór Friðriksson was released in 1996.

LOVESTAR

BY ANDRI SNÆR MAGNASON

Among Andri’s oeuvre is a book of discount poetry sold in grocery stores, children’s books, and a nonfiction books on the state of Iceland’s industry and its future direction. He also ran for president of Iceland in 2016 and came in third.

LoveStar is a dystopian novel, initially published in 2002, set in a future where a giant corporation controls the lives of people through their personal

data, love is controlled by algorithms matching people to their mates, and people can making a living as influencers by secretly advertising products through their lifestyle. Frightening, isn’t it? An unconventional love story set among Iceland’s stunning landscapes.

I REMEMBER YOU

BY YRSA SIGURÐARDÓTTIR

Yrsa is the queen of Icelandic crime fiction. Despite writing about horrific crimes in a country with statistically less than one murder per year, Yrsa is knwown for writing believable and threedimensional characters as well as a thrilling plot with twists and turns aplenty. Her books about Þóra Guðmundsdóttir, a crime-solving lawyer, are immensely popular, but she’s also written a few more thrilling stories stretching into the realm of ghost stories and the supernatural. I Remember You combines an eerie ghost story with crime fiction and was made into a movie in 2017.

"EastWest provides exceptional small group tours and private tours so you can enjoy the famous Golden Circle, the dramatic landscapes of the South coast, the breathtaking peninsula of Snæfellsnes, or the incredible Northern lights. Our driver-guides deliver travel experiences of the highest quality in a prime fleet of Mercedes-Benz Sprinters with USB connectors and onboard WIFI."

Reykjavík Thermal Pools

a Makesplash

Discover Reykjavík’s Unique Thermal Pools!

Children (0–15* years) Free Young people (16-17 years)* 210 kr.

Adults (18 years and older) 1380 kr.

Thermal pools and baths in Reykjavik are a source of health, relaxation and pureness. All of the city´s swimming pools have several hot tubs with temperatures ranging from 37˚ to 42˚C (98˚–111˚F).

The pools are kept at an average temperature of 29˚ C (84˚ F)

GO SWIMMING!

Whether you visit a thermal pool in Reykjavík, a luxurious spa, or a natural pool in the countryside, swimming in Iceland is a unique experience. Nothing beats relaxing in warm water while breathing in fresh cold air.

Vesturbæjarlaug

BEST KID-FRIENDLY POOL

Swimming pools are one of the most kid-friendly activities you can find in Iceland, so the short answer is – all of them! To be more specific, the centrally located Sundhöll has a great outdoor area, and so does Vesturbæjarlaug, but Árbæjarlaug is a hidden gem, a perfect stop if you’re going out of town anyway, and pairs well with a visit to the Árbær Open Air Museum.

BEST POOL TO CHAT WITH LOCALS

Locals love going to the pool, and chilling in a hot tub is a good way to connect to Icelanders. Often, Icelanders meet in the pool and use this time to chat and catch up on the latest developments. Good options for hanging out with locals are Vesturbæjarlaug, Seltjarnarneslaug, and Árbæjarlaug pools.

BEST POOL FOR SERIOUS SWIMMERS

Laugardalslaug is Reykjavík’s biggest pool and the best one for a long swim. It’s an Olympic-size swimming pool, used for recreational swimming,

Laugardalslaug

exercise, and competitions. The big indoor pool is also used for training and competitions. Laugardalslaug also offers plenty of hot tubs, cold tubs, and steam baths for relaxation after a healthy swim, and to top it off, a fitness centre and spa are located next to the pool.

BEST POOL FOR A DAY TRIP

Basically every town in Iceland has its own pool. Almost all of them are beautifully located next to mountains and overlooking fjords and the ocean. If you plan to make a day tour out of your pool visit, head to the Westman Islands and visit Sundhöllin Vestmannaeyjar on Heimaey island. The ferry ride out to the island is an adventure, and there is a great indoor pool, a large outside pool with hot tubs, and cool waterslides.

BEST LUXURY SPA

In need of pampering? You’ve heard of the Blue Lagoon with its milky blue waters and mud masks, but did you know a brand-new spa opened just 10 minutes by car from downtown Reykjavík? Located at the edge of the bay of Kópavogur, the pool offers amazing coastal views. Sky Lagoon boasts a modern approach to traditional Icelandic swimming culture, making it the perfect spot to relax, enjoy a drink, socialise, and soak in the sun.