What's On in Reykjavik - May 2016 by MD Reykjavik

MAY 2016

IN REYKJAVIK

REYKJAVIK’S LEADING GUIDE TO INFORMATION, EVENTS, MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES.

24 48

thermal pools Reykjavík city museum Reykjavík art museum #reykjavikloves

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

WHAT’S ON

CONTENTS MAY 2016

ON THE COVER MAY IN REYKJAVIK

EXPERIENCE 6-37

WHAT’S ON

38-41

REYKJAVIK CITY MAP 42-43

MUSEUM WALK

44-45

EVENT CALENDAR

46-61

ART & CULTURE

62-67

NIGHTLIFE 68-69

SHOPPING & STYLE

70-73

FOOD & DRINK

74-79

PRACTICAL INFO

80-83

After a few false starts, as usual, spring has finally come to Iceland. Also as usual, there’s a sense of elation in the air. We’ve survived yet another long, dark winter and we’re getting ready to be rewarded for our patience! While winter in Iceland can be charming, with the Northern Lights and starry night skies over crisp white snow, it also tends to be cold, wet, windy and above all, dark. The long nights compel most people to spend most of their time curled up under a blanket with a hot drink in their hands and the weather is a further deterrent from venturing outside. It’s a time for poring over books, educational or otherwise, and catching up on TV shows. Come spring time, Icelanders understandably get a serious case of spring fever. Everything seems so new and fresh and green and exciting, people all over Iceland tear off their blankets, trade in their teas and hot cocoas for cold beer and lemonade and jump in the nearest swimming pool to bask in the sun. In the towns and cities, schools are letting out students after a gruelling exam season, and in the countryside, it’s lambing season, a fittingly symbolic marker of the start of summer. The reason for this extreme amount of excitement is of course tied up with the fact that summer in Iceland is short, a fleeting moment of camping, music and midnight sun (as depicted on our cover) all accompanied by the perpetual smell of grilling. In the memory it’s always over as soon as it’s begun, which makes it all the more important to enjoy it as much as you can, while you can.

Layout & design: Stefán Birgir Stefáns, sbs@sbs.is Content writers: The What’s On Team

Editor: Hjörtur Atli Guðmunds. Geirdal, hjortur@whatson.is, Tel.: 847-4153. Assistant Editor: Gréta Sigríður Einarsdóttir, greta@whatson.is

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Volume 34 – Issue 5. Published by MD Reykjavik ehf. Tryggvagata 11, 101 Reykjavik. Publisher: Sigurþór Marteinn Tel.: 899-2255. E-mail: sm@whatson.is

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Map: Kári Gunnarsson

Printing: Oddi, Ecolabelled Printing Company WHAT‘S ON IN REYKJAVIK is published monthly covering events and happenings in and around Reykjavik. Opinions expressed in WHAT‘S ON IN Reykjavik 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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THE WHAT’S ON

You can find checklists from past months at whatson.is/writings/

MAY CHECKLIST

There are loads of things to do for entertainment in Reykjavik this month! Here are a few “must-do’s” you can try out. As always, we encourage you to tag your photos using #WhatsOnRvk, as proof that you did all those things you’re boasting of!

Go swimming! See some art at the Reykjavík Art Festival The puffins are here! Go see them! Watch Iceland win the Eurovision song contest (probably). Get out of the city, enjoy spring in Icelandic nature. While you’re there, go lambspotting! It’s lambing season on Icelandic farms. Ride the majestic Icelandic horse (in a horseriding tour). If you're not tired of animals yet, take a whale watching tour. CHECK OUT OLDER CHECKLISTS AT WHATSON.IS/CHECKLIST

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THE REYKJAVIK Reykjavik 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.

1 | HALLGRÍMSKIRKJA Hallgrímskirkja church is one of Reykjavík’s most iconic buildings and is visible from almost anywhere in the city. The church tower is among the city’s highest buildings and offers a fantastic view of the city for the small price of 900ISK for adults, 100ISK for children. Hallgrímskirkja is the largest church and the sixth tallest architectural structure in Iceland. 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 flows of Iceland’s landscape. Construction started in 1945 and was finished in 1984.

2 | PERLAN Standing at 25 metres, Perlan is one of Reykjavík’s most striking buildings. Although it was opened to the public in 1991, its modern construction still makes for a stand-out piece of architecture. Up on the fourth level, there is a 360 degree viewing platform where you can get the best panoramic views of Reykjavík. When the sun sets, it’s also a spectacular spot to watch the Northern Lights. During the day, the Perlan café is a nice place to get coffee or ice cream. If you come in the evening, the Perlan restaurant has some of the finest cuisine in the city. The restaurant rotates slowly so you get to see the whole city without even having to turn your head.

Check out our map on p. 42 for the locations of these sights.

3 | TJÖRNIN

Tjörnin (the pond) is the heart of the city centre and offers some of the most amazing views Reykjavík has to offer. 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.

4 | AUSTURVÖLLUR When the sun is shining and the air is hot, Austurvöllur is the place to be. Surrounded by cafés and restaurants on Vallarstræti and Pósthússtræti, this public square is a wildly popular spot for locals to dine outside, soak up some sunshine or recline in the grass with picnics. In fact, whatever the season, Austurvöllur is the place to be. It’s used for celebrations on holidays, the city’s biggest Christmas tree is located there and due to its close proximity to the Parliament building, Austurvöllur has also a popular gathering place for political protests. At the center of it all stands a statue of Jón Sigurðsson, the renowned figure who led Iceland to independence.

5 | KOLAPORTIÐ Whether you want to sample dried fish and fermented shark, purchase a bag of Icelandic candy or browse through thrifted clothing, Kolaportið, an indoor flea market that is open during the weekend between 11am-5pm. should be the destination of your choice. The atmosphere is very unique and the old industrial building is usually filled with people hunting for books or antiques, grocery shopping at the food court, selling their old garments, buying music and DVD’s or digging through piles of stuff in search of hidden treasures. We recommend bringing cash, as the majority of stalls don‘t accept cards.

6 | HARPA The whole 28.000 square meters of Harpa stand at the edge of the Reykjavik 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 occasionally 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. Harpa was designed by a Danish firm in co-operation with Ólafur Elíasson, an Icelandic artist, and opened to the public in 2011.

7 | THE OLD HARBOR It’s the first lasting harbour in Reykjavik, although it’s no longer the city’s busiest one. 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. You will find numerous whale watching companies willing to take you out to sea on unforgettable excursions.

EXPERIENCE

SIGHT EXPERIENCE

The area is filled with excellent restaurants (sushi and other seafood, tapas, burgers, etc.) and cafés. The atmosphere at the old harbour is friendly, the air is fresh and salty and there’s plenty of interesting activities to check out.

8 | THE SUN VOYAGER A beautiful sculpture of a Viking ship located by the ocean on a small peninsula by Sæbraut, close to the Reykjavík center.

Sólfarið looks its best is when the sun is setting, at whatever time that may be. The unforgettable view of the sculpture with a backdrop of the ocean and mount Esjan is every photographer’s dream.

9 | CITY HALL The Reykjavík City Hall is an impressive, modern building, opened in 1992, that sits right on the Northern shore of lake Tjörnin. Not only does it house the offices of the mayor and other city officials, it‘s also open to visitors and offers stunning views of the water, bird life, nature and city surrounds. Inside the City Hall, you‘ll find a room-sized relief map of Iceland that took four men several years to make. There are also exhibition halls that regularly host a steady stream of new and exciting art exhibitions, book fairs, arts and crafts fairs and other events.

10 | LAUGARDALSLAUG Every country has traditions when it comes to leisure. Iceland’s big thing is swimming pools. Laugardalslaug is the city’s largest pool with extensive facilities, 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. Right outside you will find a hot dog stand where you can buy traditional Icelandic hot dogs.

Find these places on the centerfold map.

Check out our map on p. 42 for the locations of these sights.

The sculpture by Jón Gunnar Árnason symbolises the Viking past of the Icelanders and is an ode to the sun. It serves as reminder of our history and heritage when the first Viking settlers came sailing to Iceland.

The 1783-4 eruption of Laki was history’s biggest volcanic eruption. When it erupted, the ash darkened the sky over all of Europe for years. The ash’s toxicity caused widespread crop failures and the resulting famine all over Europe was almost certainly one of the causes of the French revolution in 1789, ultimately resulting in the first modern democracy as we know it. You’re welcome…

NOT JUST ONE, BUT TWO OF THE BIGGEST ERUPTIONS IN THE RECORDED HISTORY OF THE WORLD, OCCURRED IN ICELAND! Not only was Laki the biggest eruption in recorded history, measured by volume of lava, but 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. It still isn‘t close to matching Laki. That eruption produced 370 km2 of lava, the size of the Gaza strip, in only 50 days!

All photos provided by the Volcano House

For more information on Icelandic volcanoes, check out www.volcanohouse.is

AN ICELANDIC VOLCANO IS THE REASON FOR DEMOCRACY AS WE KNOW IT

EXPERIENCE

5 FACTS YOU (PROBABLY) DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT ICELANDIC VOLCANOES

EXPERIENCE For more information on Icelandic volcanoes, check out www.volcanohouse.is 14

1/3 OF ALL THE EARTH’S FRESH LAVA ORIGINATED IN ICELAND! When you’re discussing volcanoes, all concepts that have something to do with time get a bit skewed. For instance, fresh lava means lava emissions on earth since the year 1500. The reason for this impressive amount of liquid rock spewing to the surface is because not only does Iceland sit on a crack between two tectonic plates, it’s also on top of a geologic hotspot. Even so, for such a small island, that’s a pretty impressive amount of lava.

ICELAND HAS A VOLCANIC ERUPTION EVERY 4-5 YEARS! This isn’t surprising considering the island has somewhere around 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. Not all the eruptions are on the

WANT TO GET UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH THE VOLCANOES OF ICELAND? For more information on volcanoes and geothermal activity in Iceland, go visit the Volcano House by the old harbour. Its attractions include a mineral exhibition and an hour-long documentary on volcanoes, which is shown every hour, on the hour. As an added bonus, the What’s On staff is also currently residing at the Volcano House due to construction at the Laugavegur What’s On office.

same scale as the Eyjafjallajökull eruption though; some are small enough to be considered tourist attractions and some happen underneath glaciers and never even see the light of day.

ICELAND HAS THE ONLY ISLAND SCIENTISTS HAVE BEEN ABLE TO OBSERVE AND DOCUMENT FROM THE MOMENT OF ITS CREATION: SURTSEY Surtsey 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 no one was allowed to set foot on the island. 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, and the information gained has been invaluable to scientists.

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EXPERIENCE 8 THINGS YOU DIDN'T KNOW ABOUT THE PUFFIN 1

THEY MATE FOR LIFE

Puffins uphold the bird version of conservative family values, they mate for life, raise their single puffling over the course of the summer and return every year to their same nesthole. THEY’RE EASY PREY FOR PREDATORS ON LAND, WHICH IS WHY THEY USUALLY NEST ON ISLANDS. Predators like foxes, weasels, cats and dogs don’t reach them on the islands around Iceland or out at sea during the wintertime. Actually, the puffins’ most threatening natural predator is homo sapiens. Puffin is still hunted for food and eaten, fresh or smoked. If you're curious to try it, many restaurants in Reykjavík serve puffin.

THEY’RE GREAT SWIMMERS, BUT CLUMSY FLYERS

THEY SPEND MOST OF THEIR LIFE AT SEA.

You know how penguins look like they’re flying when they swim while their attempt at walking can best be described as a waddle? It’s like that with the puffins as well, they look like they’re ready to fall out of the sky at any moment, flying with jerking motions and crash-landing.

The puffins are pelagic birds which means that they spend more than half the year far out at sea. They are well suited to life on the sea and mostly eat fish. They only return to their holes to breed from April to August.

Find more articles like this at whatson.is/writings/

EXPERIENCE

Puffins are seabirds and tend to live where trees don’t. They dig holes instead, up to a metre deep. They sometimes even use old rabbit holes if there are any rabbits in the area. THEIR BEAKS ARE IMPRESSIVE

The multic-coloured beaks that the puffins sport for the mating seasons have, in some parts of the world, earned them the nickname of sea parrot or even sea clown. In Iceland they have a more dignified moniker, they’re called provosts after senior church officials.

THEY’RE STILL NOT AS IMPRESSIVE AS THE TUFTED PUFFIN

The puffin, or more accurately the Atlantic puffin, has a cousin known as the tufted puffin. It’s beak hasn’t got the same range of colours, but it more than makes up for it with yellow tufts of feathers, streaming back from its head like luscious blond locks.

THEY’RE NOT OUR NATIONAL BIRD.

That honour belongs to the infinitely more graceful, if less likable, gyrfalcon. For a while the falcon was even represented in the national crest. The national order of Iceland is also named for the falcon.

Find more articles like this at whatson.is/writings/

You can find checklists from past months at whatson.is/writings/

THEY DON’T MAKE NESTS, THEY DIG HOLES

Pre-booking is required. Book online at bluelagoon.com

PRE-BOOKING IS REQUIRED Book online at bluelagoon.com

EXPERIENCE WHAT TO DO IN ICELAND

IF YOU ONLY HAVE ONE DAY If you only have one day in Iceland, the first advice I will give you is to change your flight and stay for at least a week more. If that’s not an option, my next suggestion would be to use the time you have to the fullest, since Iceland is a unique destination. IF ICELANDIC GEOLOGY INTERESTS YOU

It’s no coincidence that The Golden Circle is the most popular day tour from Reykjavík. There are three stops on the way that just happen to be three of the most captivating destinations in Iceland, and as an added bonus, the tour doesn’t take up more than half of your day. The stops are Þingvellir, the national park where the Icelandic Parliament congregated since Viking times, Gullfoss, the aweinspiring waterfall which lends its name to the Golden Circle, and Geysir, an erupting hot spring, guaranteed to wow visitors.

Nobody does volcanoes like Iceland, there’s a reason it’s called the land of Ice and Fire. The Reykjavík Erupts! volcano hike takes you to a geothermally active area where the effects of the extreme heat underground are clearly visible on the surface. The colours of the earth are akin to a rainbow and there are bubbling cauldrons of mud everywhere. Lava Tube Caving tour, on the other hand, allows you to visit a cave that was formed during a volcanic eruption. The rock formations alone make this tour worth the trip.

Find more articles like this at whatson.is/writings/

IF YOU JUST WANT TO SEE THE HIGHLIGHTS

EXPERIENCE

IF YOU WANT TO SEE A GLACIER Since you’re visiting ICE-land, you might want to check out some icy tours and it doesn’t get any icier than hiking on a glacier. Glacier hikes are relatively easy and the professional gear is provided so it should be accessible for most people. You get to walk on a glacier, along with guides that know everything there is to know about glaciers and Iceland in general. IF YOU’RE IN THE MOOD FOR A LITTLE LUXURY Even if you’re only in Iceland for a short time, that doesn’t mean you have to spend all your time on a bus. If a day of luxurious pampering is more appealing, look no further than the Blue Lagoon. The turquoise blue waters make for a divinely soothing and relaxing experience. It doesn’t hurt that you can book all sorts of massages and treatments and get drinks straight to the lagoon. The Lava restaurant at the Blue Lagoon is also first class.

Find more articles like this at whatson.is

IF YOU PREFER CITY STREETS TO HIKING TRAILS

You don’t have to leave the city to experience Iceland. Not only does Reykjavík offer a variety of great museums, restaurants, cafés, and shops, it also has spectacular views of the mountains surrounding the city, right from the city centre. If you’re staying in the city and want to get the most out of your time, invest in the City Card. It gives you access to all the city’s museums for free, as well as access to the thermal pools of Reykjavík, the Reykjavík Family Park and Zoo in Laugardalur, and allows you to use the Icelandic Bus (Strætó) within the Capital Region. IF YOU READ MOBY DICK AND LIKED IT Marine life abounds in the ocean around Iceland. Of all the creatures that live in these waters, the most spectacular ones have to be the whales. If you’re interested in seeing these immense creatures for yourself, take a whale watching cruise. Even the smallest Icelandic whale you could spot is still the size of a full grown man, and the largest can reach

up to 30 metres in length! 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 for some extra information on these gentle giants. Whether you are going on tours or staying within city limits, you can be sure of one thing: you won’t have seen enough of what Iceland has to offer. The next time you’re in Iceland (and we’re pretty sure you’ll be back) stop by the What’s On office, or send us an email, and ask the staff to help you plan an unforgettable vacation.

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THE WHAT’S ON

ICELAND‘S SECRET TO HEALTHY LIVING Legend has it that the Vikings introduced Skyr to Iceland when they settled in the country some 1.100 years ago. Travel back in time to any farm and Skyr would be on the table – essential nourishment for young and old. Generations past may not have been able to measure the nutritional content in the way we can now, but the life-expectancy of the average Icelander was proof enough that something good was going on. Icelanders have ever since loved the smooth texture of this incredibly healthy dairy product and today it plays a big role in the modern lifestyle

diet. Skyr is high in protein and a virtually fat-free dairy delight. Thick and creamy in consistency, it is also rich in calcium and other nutrients. Skyr can be found at almost every home and workplace. Enjoyed at breakfast, lunchtime, pretty much anytime, it has also become a healthy „fastfood“ for active people on the go. Delicious in smoothies or energy-boosting drinks, it even features on the dessert menus of many top restaurants, which are bringing a contemporary twist to this established favourite.

For more information on skyr, visit skyr.is

SKYR EXPERIENCE

EXPERIENCE

Skyr is available in many different varieties, both flavoured and plain, in small containers and large. For an easy on-the-go treat, a spoon comes with the smaller ones. Below are some of the flavours available.

MS SKYR – PLAIN Skyr was originally only available as plain and was made at every farm in Iceland. Nowadays, there is a huge variety of flavours available but many still prefer the plain one. It can be enjoyed with berries and cream and perhaps a little bit of honey or sugar. In the fall many Icelanders pick fresh berries and enjoy it with skyr. Plain Skyr is also a good base for all sorts of cold sauses.

KEA SKYR WITH VANILLA Kea skyr comes from the northern part of Iceland and this is one of the most popular flavours available. The taste is full and creamy with zero fat. It’s mild and creamy flavour also makes it popular as a base for desserts.

For more information on skyr, visit skyr.is

MS SKYR.IS WITH BAKED APPLES

Skyr producers have been experimenting with new flavours in skyr while still keeping it as nutritious as possible. One of the more recent additions is the baked apple flavour. As with other skyr, it is high in protein and fat free as well as being low-carb. Even though it is low in carbohydrates, it’s not lacking in flavour and the texture is reminiscent of a creamy dessert.

MS SKYR.IS WITH BLUEBERRIES This is a long-time favourite of the Skyr.is varieties. Blueberries are among the few summer fruits that grow in Iceland so eating Skyr with fresh blueberries has a long tradition in Iceland. The taste is very rich and full of blueberries.

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THE ICELANDIC

Although beer and ale have been brewed in Iceland for a long time, beer production was limited during the 20th century, as beer was illegal in Iceland until 1989! Icelanders have more than made up for lost time and the growth in beer production in recent years has been amazing. In just a few years, we‘ve seen many great breweries emerge, filled with ambition and ingenuity, and beer is now the most popular alcoholic beverage in Iceland. It’s no wonder, as Icelandic beer is delicious, in no small part thanks to the Icelandic water; renowned for its purity and quality.

VÍKING CLASSIC Víking Classic is a Vienna style beer with golden amber colour and taste of roasted malt. It has a good body and medium bitterness with balancing sweetness and a hint of caramel. The name might seem a bit presumptuous as this classic has only been in production for a few years, but it’s in fact named after the Danish “Classic” style of beer. Víking Classic is available in draught, bottles and cans and is part of the Víking beer family which is the most popular beer brand in Iceland.

EINSTÖK WHITE ALE A clean and crisp start with a smooth mouthfeel thanks to the oats. Citrus and spice round out a refreshing finish.

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Einstök beer is brewed up north, just 60 miles south of the Arctic Circle. You wouldn’t know it when you taste this summery, citrusy white ale. It has the complex flavours of a classic witbier, all brewed with pure Icelandic water for a cool smoothness that is deliciously refreshing. Don’t forget to ask for a slice of orange!

KALDI Kaldi is a very mild and comfortable pilsner, dry, fresh, slightly bitter, with notes of roasted barley and hops, and has 5% ABV. You might detect a hint of sweetness as well. The brewery on Árskógssandur, makers of Kaldi beer, was the first microbrewery that opened in Iceland, back in 2006. The regular Kaldi is a pure pilsner, with all the ingredients, except the Icelandic water, coming from the Czech Republic. Even their brewmaster is Czech! Following its success, the brewery opened Kaldi bar in the centre of Reykjavík, where all the varieties of Kaldi beer are available. Kaldi bar is, of course, the best place to get Kaldi, but it’s available in other bars as well, and in bottles at the liquor stores.

KALDI DARK A dark pilsner, it‘s similar to the regular Kaldi, but the main difference is the use of burnt malt, which provides the beautiful, distinctive dark colour and deepens the flavour. Most Icelanders are used to drinking light lagers and are even a bit wary of dark beers, at least until they taste Kaldi Dark. As mentioned – the Kaldi beers are brewed by Czech traditions, dated from 1842. Kaldi Dark is brewed using 3 different types of Czech hops. Kaldi Dark is unpasteurized with no added sugar or preservatives. You can get Kaldi Dark in all liquor stores as well as some bars, but the best place to get it is of course the Kaldi bar in the centre of Reykjavík.

These are our favourites, don’t leave Reykjavík without stopping by a pub or a bar and tasting at least one (or all) of them!

BRÍÓ Brío uses German hops, giving the beer a very distinctive taste and a sweet aroma. Along with the hops, it uses Pilsen malt and under-fermented yeast. Bríó is the first beer produced by Borg Brugghús, a brewery that now produces several popular beers all year round along with seasonal beers for summer, Christmas and Easter. Bríó is a pilsner, a style of beer named after the city of Pilsen in the Czech Republic. This style of brewing first emerged in the middle of the 19th century and became so popular that the majority of beer drunk today is a relative of the original pilsner. Brío was originally brewed as the house beer for Ölstofan but due to its popularity, it’s now available in liquor stores as well as most bars in town.

EXPERIENCE

BEER EXPERIENCE

ÚLFUR The aroma is of fresh citrus fruits, especially grapefruit, which can also be found in the flavour, along with a strong bitterness that makes you crave another sip. Úlfur was the first Icelandic IPA (India Pale Ale) on the market. It’s in the same calibre as the best produced on the West Coast of the Unites States and surprised many Icelanders with its distinct flavour and aroma. Only American hops are used in the beer and they are added when boiled and after fermentation; a so called “dry hopping” technique. Icelanders took to the beer immediately and it helped clear the way for smaller breweries to try new things.

Viking stout is pitch black, reminiscent of cocoa and coffee with a smoothly roasted aftertaste. This is one of the first stouts made in Iceland. Only brewed from the finest ingredients, Víking stout is unfiltered and has a distinctly smoky aftertaste. It’s recently had its look revamped along with the other Víking craft beers. The labels now carry graphic designs that interpret events and traditions from the Viking age. The pitch black stout’s label fittingly evokes images of the ravens of Flóki, the Viking traveller who named Iceland.

PILS ORGANIC Víking Pils Organic has a distinctive floral hoppiness, medium bitterness and a nice balance. Pils Organic took the Bavarian production tradition head on and emerged unquestionably victorious. A member of the same Viking inspired line of beers as the Víking Stout, Pils Organic is decorated with a pattern based on the snake’s heads that used to adorn the ships of the Vikings. Contrary to popular belief, these weren’t meant to intimidate opponents in battles on sea, but rather to frighten sea monsters.

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VÍKING STOUT

THE STEAK HOUSE

Steikhúsið simply means „The Steak House” and that underlines our goal, to focus solely on steaks. The Steak house is in the middle of Reykjavík, opposite the old harbor which has recently formed into a lively neighborhood of restaurants, cafes and artisan stores and work shops. When you wisit us, remember to try our “28 days” tendered meat. The heart of the place is a coal oven from Mibrasa, Spain. It is only fitting that we use coal for grilling and baking The Building housed a blacksmith and metal works in years gone by. THE KITCHEN IS OPEN FROM 17:00 TILL LATE — VISIT WWW.STEAK.IS

Booking: +354 561 1111 & steik@steik.is

EXPERIENCE WHITSUN AT HALLGRÍMSKIRKJA

The Whitsun is always lavishly celebrated in Hallgrímskirkja, this year being no exception. At lunchtime on Saturday May 14th, organist Hörður Áskelsson of Hallgrímskirkja plays the huge organ, glorious Whitsun-related music by organ giants like J.S. Bach, Grigny and Buxtehude. On Sunday morning, at 11 am, there is a festive mass with organist Björn Steinar Sólbergsson and the Hallgrímskirkja Motet Choir performing under the conduction of Hörður Áskelsson. Right after mass, at 12.15 pm, there is the opening of the summer exhibition of local artist Hulda Hákon that is known for her bas-reliefs. The exhibition is called On an Island by the Arctic Sea: People, Fire and Birds and will spread from the vestibule out on to the church square. Last but not least, at 5 pm that same day, the Motet Choir sings an a cappella concert in the church, a selection of favourite works ranging from Rachmaninov, Bruckner, Duruflé, Messiaën and Frank Martin to contemporary compositions written for the choir by Iclelandic composers Hreiðar Ingi and Halldór Hauksson. Conductor is Hörður Áskelsson.

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Hallgrímskirkja, the monumental church on the hill in Reykjavík, is not only a magnificent piece of architecture and a beautiful place of worship, but also a blooming centre of religious art. All year round there are ambitious concerts with religious music in the church, which houses not only the largest instrument in Iceland, the impressive Klaisorgan, but also two of the very best choirs in the country. The Friends of the Arts Society in Hallgrímskirkja additionally holds exhibitions by some of Iceland’s most renowned pictorical artists.

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A GUIDE TO READING THE SAGAS OF THE ICELANDERS The Sagas of the Icelanders, written in the 12th and 13th century and telling the stories of the early settlers of Iceland from the 10th century, are an amazing treasure trove of historical knowledge about the early years of settlement in Iceland. Better yet, they’re also impressive examples of literary excellence that still hold their own when it comes to enthralling storytelling. The sagas might be several centuries old and originate in a society with completely different values to our own, but the stories they tell are universal and timeless. Just like modern literature, they deal with love, loss, honour, adventure and everything in between. If you want to start reading the sagas but you’re just not sure where to begin, here’s our guide to reading the sagas. IF YOU LIKE ROMANCE NOVELS AND SOAP OPERAS – START WITH LAXDÆLA SAGA Laxdæla is the thrilling story of bonds of friendship torn asunder for the love of a woman. The love triangle of the formerly inseparable friends Kjartan and Bolli and the beautiful and

clever Guðrún has far-reaching consequences in this heartwrenching story of honour, destiny, love and betrayal. Will Guðrún follow her heart or her pride? Are they all mere pawns of fate? Will her efforts to overturn destiny prove fruitful? …or fatal!? IF YOU’RE A FAN OF LEGAL DRAMAS AND THE GREEK TRAGEDIES – START WITH BRENNUNJÁLS SAGA Njála, as it is affectionately known, is the most revered of all the sagas in Iceland and its main character, Gunnar of Hlíðarendi is probably the most idealised hero in all Icelandic literature. Familial obligations, honour and, most importantly, love, throw him, his best friend Njáll and everyone they hold dear into a whirlwind of theft, lawsuits, murder and punishments. His fate is marked from the moment he lays eyes on the woman he loves and not even Njáll’s sage advice can save him. As an added bonus, Gunnar’s wife, Hallgerður, also happens to be arguably the best female character in all medieval literature.

Völsunga saga has it all, dragons, sleeping beauties, magical swords, revenge and a dash of incest. It’s basically Game of Thrones for the 13th century! Its the story of the Völsungs, a dynasty of kings and heroes. The best known story from the saga is the story of Sigurður, the slayer of the dragon Fáfnir. After he kills the dragon, he eats his heart because magical birds told him to do it. What more do you need to know?

IF YOU LIKE ACTION MOVIES AND ADVENTURE STORIES – START WITH EGIL’S SAGA Egil’s saga tells the story of the fascinating antihero Egill Skallagrímsson and his adventurous travels all over the north of Europe. A fierce fighter and clever poet with severe anger management issues, Egil’s saga weaves the stories of the first time he killed a man (at the tender age of 7), his impending beheading which he escapes with the aid of some seriously great poetry, and a drunken feast turned massacre (where our hero at one point cuts off a man’s head before vomiting down his neck), to name a few.

EXPERIENCE

IF YOU’RE INTO FANTASY – START WITH VÖLSUNGA SAGA

THE ICELANDIC SAGAS are the backbone of the Icelandic cultural heritage. We recommend reading them all, of course, but if you’re having a hard time getting started, get ready to get excited! Icelandic sagas – Greatest hits, premiering May 4th, is a 75-minute show, performed in English, promises to give the audience all the information they never knew they needed about the sagas, all with a healthy dash of humour, of course. Gréta Icelandic Sagas – Greatest hits is the perfect way to get to know all 40 of the sagas, in 75 laughter-packed minutes.

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EXPERIENCE 5 REASONS WHY THE STREETS OF REYKJAVÍK EMPTY DURING EUROVISION

Iceland first took part in 1986 with the aggressively bedazzled and shoulderpadded Gleðibankinn (Bank of Joy). Icelanders considered it a certain winner and were gutted when the Icy trio only came in 16th. Ever since, the Eurovision song contest in Iceland has follow the same recipe; a completely bonkers buildup of expectations of victory followed by a night of heavy drinking and a hangover of both body and soul while the last of the glitter is scrubbed from the floor. Whatever reception our Eurovision hopefuls receive from the rest of Europe, one thing’s for sure: Every living soul in Iceland is going to be watching it happen. SOME PEOPLE GENUINELY LOVE THE MUSIC/ COSTUMES/SPECTACLE While some might claim that a lobotomy is required in order to fully enjoy the musical offerings of Eurovision contestants, there’s no denying that crowd-pleasing, unchallenging pop music and attention-grabbing costumes, set design and light shows make for good TV. While the music is not

exactly ground-breaking, it requires some skill to write and perform an instantaneously addictive pop song and the ones that grace the Eurovision stage are the crème de la crème. SOME PEOPLE WATCH IRONICALLY Let’s face it, the Eurovision Song Contest is many things, but cool is not one of them. If you need proof, this is the event that launched the international career of ABBA. So what’s a cool cat to do when Eurovision rolls around? Claiming you love it is out of the question, but making fun of it is fine, even preferred. That’s where ironically watching Eurovision comes in. Of course, doing things ironically has been done to death and is totally last year so if you want to be with it, genuinely loving things is in again, preferably with costumes. Being cool can be so confusing!

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May is here and we all know what that means, it’s time for the Eurovision Song Contest! Usually referred to as simply Eurovision (or even júróvisjon), the musical extravaganza is many things. To its fans, it’s glorious spectacle of lights, music, dancing and glitter, while others consider it an astonishingly tasteless affront to music. There’s one thing we can all agree on; it makes for great TV.

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SOME PEOPLE ARE IN IT FOR THE COMPETITION

Of course the Eurovision song contest is about so much more than just the music. It’s right there in the title, it’s a contest! Much like you would cheer on your national football, handball or basketball team, cheering for the Icelandic entry every time it gets the coveted douze points (twelve points) combines the joy of sportsmanship and mild nationalism. What’s not to love? A variation of the competitive type is a more realistic one. Instead of cheering for his country, he will meticulously research which song is most likely to win, factoring in things like European politics and instant likeability vs slow-burn qualities.

SOME PEOPLE JUST LIKE TO PARTY Politics and music aside, watching Eurovision with a bunch of people is a great recipe for a party. In fact, playing a drinking game is probably the best way to watch Eurovision. There are plenty of versions out there but popular iterations encourage drinking for excessive use of wind machines, mid-song costume changes and key changes. After the contest is over, we recommend dancing to the Eurovision classics of years gone by along with this year’s hits. THE REST JUST HAVE NO CHOICE Finally, even if you hate the music, you don’t feel the need to mock it by ironically watching it, the competition element doesn’t excite you and you hate parties, odds are you’re still going to end up watching the contest anyway. What else are you going to do, move to the mountains? Lock yourself in the basement? Read a BOOK? Let’s face it, there’s not even anything else on TV.

The Eurovision Song Contest starts off with the semi-finals on the 10th and 12th of May and the final competition takes place Saturday 12th of May.

TOURIST INFORMATION

& BOOKING CENTRE

HAS MOVED, DUE TO RENOVATIONS, TO THE

VOLCANO HOUSE

TRYGGVAGATA 11, NEXT TO THE OLD HARBOUR SEE YOU THERE!

Party Every Night. Cocktails! Live Music Every Night! 50 different kinds of beer. Live Sports Coverage Kitchen open from 11.00. Ribs, burgers, chicken wings!

LIFE IS SHORT - DRINK EARLY AUSTURSTRAETI 8 â&#x20AC;˘ REYKJAVIK

WHATSON.IS On our website, whatson.is, the What’s On Team works hard to consistently deliver fresh and fun stuff for everyone to read. Here is a sneak peek at some of the exciting subjects featured on our website.

MAGICAL MÝVATN By Ásdís Ólafsdóttir Mývatn is a magical place, just ask Ásdís! The beautiful lake, surrounded by stunning landscapes, amazing birdlife and geothermally active areas, will not disappoint.

WHAT’S ON

WRITINGS FROM

ICELAND EXPLAINED By Gréta Sigríður Einarsdóttir Have you ever wondered what exactly is so special about the Icelandic horse? Who Jón Gnarr is and why exactly he is so famous? How Alþingi got started? Look no further, we’re here to tell you all about how Icelandic culture works.

By Gréta Sigríður Einarsdóttir You probably know it as the delicious protein-filled, fat-free dairy snack available all over Iceland. But did you know that it also has a political history?

READ ALL THE BLOG POSTS AT WHATSON.IS/WRITINGS/

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PROTESTING WITH DAIRY

WHAT’S ON

REYKJAVIK ARTS FESTIVAL NOTABLE EVENTS

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VLADIMIR ASHKENAZY AND THE ICELAND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Vladimir Ashkenazy, one of the founders of the Reykjavík art Festival returns to the Arts festival after 37 years to conduct the Iceland symphony orchestra in Beethoven’s Pastoral symphony. Ashkenazy’s longtime collaborator, celebrated pianist JeanEfflam Bavouzet, will also be performing.

THE SAN FRANCISCO BALLET HELGI TÓMASSON’S HOMECOMING Helgi Tómasson has held the post of artistic director and principal choreographer of the San Francisco ballet since 1985. During RAF, the dance troupe will perform selected chapters from their most celebrated works during his career.

FLEXN FlexN dancing has its roots in Jamaican Brukup and surfaced on the streets of Brooklyn in the 90s. Eighteen dancers from Brooklyn and Manchester will be premiering FlexN in Iceland during the festival, directed and choreographed by Reggie „Regg Roc“ Gray.

The Reykjavik festival of the arts first took place more than 40 years ago, in 1970. Since then, the festival has grown and flourished, attracted some of the top artists in the world and generally enriched the cultural life of Reykjavík. This May, The RAF puts on a show for the 30th time (The festival was a biannual event until 2004 and takes place annually since then). There’s a sense of excitement in the air as Reykjavík prepares to be invaded by music, dance, theatre and every other art form imaginable. This year’s festival marks a certain return to the roots as pianist and conductor Vladimir Ashkenazy, one of the founders of the Reykjavík Art Festival will be returning to the festival after a break for 37 years. As usual, there are several events, guaranteed to peak your interest. For more information check out whatson.is/art.

INFORMATION ABOUT ALL THE EVENTS AT THE REYKJAVIK ARTS FESTIVAL CAN BE FOUND ON WWW.WHATSON.IS/ART/

WHAT’S ON

ABOUT THE FESTIVAL

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PHOENIX Why settle for a traditional piece of art when you can experience an emotional journey of installations, sound sculptures and texts? Phoenix – Reykjavík edition requires you to get an appointment at the Snarfari harbour and be lead through this adventure in sounds and experiences by a GPS-controlled audio guide.

PERSONA The Icelandic Dance company will perform pieces by three Icelandic choreographers, Hannes Þór Egilsson, Halla Ólafsdóttir and Lovísa Ósk Gunnarsdóttir. The pieces are focused on the dancer and dance itself but approach the subject in completely different ways.

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The first opera of composer Anna Þorvaldsdóttir, directed by Þorleifur Örn Arnarson will be premiered at the Reykjavík Arts Festival. The chamber opera is nothing if not ambitious, taking on the creation of the world. Based on Greenlandic creation myths, the opera deals with man’s search for his roots and his relationship with nature. The Iceland symphony Orchestra will accompany the dancers.

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ON HOUSE

Check out the article The Reykjavik Sight Experience on pages 10-11 for more information about the places numbered here.

REYKJAVIK CITY MAP

10 10 10 10

WHAT’S ON

THE REYKJAVIK MUSEUM WALK Reykjavík’s history reaches back for more than a thousand years and the city is rich with culture. This heritage can be experienced in the museums scattered throughout the city. To make life easier for you, here is a proposed Museum Walk that covers the best ones in downtown Reykjavik, all within a walking distance. 1

VOLCANO HOUSE

The museum gives visitors an idea of the life in Iceland, where volcanoes a n d e a r t h q u a ke s a re a constant threat. Icelandic n a t u re i s i n a st a te o f constant flux, earthquakes occur daily somewhere in Iceland, and volcanic eruptions are always a possibility. Volcano House lets you experience the world of Icelanders by coming as close as possible to experiencing an eruption or earthquake for yourself. They also have an in-house cinema where they offer two back-toback documentaries on historical volcanic eruptions.

REYKJAVÍK MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY

The museum’s main objective is to present both historical and contemporary photography in an artistic, social and cultural context, as well as nurture public and scholarly interest in photography and its culture. The collection’s themes are diverse, you can find family photographs, photos from portrait studios, industrial- and advertising photographs, press photography, landscape photographs and more.

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THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND

The nation’s most precious treasures are kept and displayed at The National Museum of Iceland. The museum was established on the 24th of February in 1863 and it’s aim is to increase and relay knowledge of Icelandic cultural heritage from the country’s settlement until now. In the museum you will find a permanent exhibition of objects that provide insight into Icelandic history and culture as well as temporary exhibitions highlighting specific eras or aspects of the Icelandic cultural heritage.

THE NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND

The principal art museum of Iceland, established in 1884. Its art collection consists mainly of 19th and 20th century art works. 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. There is also a considerable emphasis laid on showing Icelandic art in context with international art.

REYKJAVÍK ART MUSEUM

Hafnarhús serves as the m u s e u m ’s i n s t i t u t e o f contemporary art, where new developments in art are explored through d i ve r s e ex h i b i t i o n s o f Icelandic and international artists. An exhibition of paintings by well-known pop artist Erró is a permanent feature. Don’t forget to stop by the Hafnarhús shop for postcards, art posters and books published by the museum.

THE SETTLEMENT EXHIBITION

Archaeological remains were excavated in Aðalstræti in 2001, which turned out to be the oldest relics of human habitation in Reykjavík.The relics are now preserved at their original location and are the focal point of the Settlement Exhibition. The construction of Viking Age buildings is explained using multimedia technology and computer technology is used to give an impression of what life was like in the hall. This one is open late, until 8 pm.

The Wonders of the Volcanoes Volcano House features two documentaries that focus on the most famous eruptions of Iceland, including Vestmannaeyjar in 1973 and Eyjafjallajökull in 2010, as well as talking about the causes and effects of Icelandic volcanology in general. The Volcano House includes a FREE “hands on” geology exhibition featuring many different mineral samples, such as lava from the 2014 eruption of Bárðabunga and ash from the eruption of Eyjafjallajökull. Reviews from tripadvisor “Must-go when touring the museums of Reykjavik”

- Nikeflies, Connecticut, November 22, 2015

“A must stop for geology buffs!” - sfrarymt, Montana, October 3, 2015

“Volcano eruptions are a way of life for Iceland”

- FastEd1972, Texas, November 21, 2015

“Highlight of our time in Reykjavik!” - alexa011, Wisconsin, October 2, 2015

VOLCANO HOUSE

Volcano Cinema 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

XMAS EXPERIENCE

With so much to see and do, why not rent a car with audio guided day tour GPS system?

Perfect day tours for the independent traveller My Way is your own audio day tour consisting of a suitable car for you and your friends together with an audio guide programmed into the GPS system. Sold in cooperation with Avis and Budget car rentals.

My Way audio guided daytours exsamples: Reykjanes Peninsula

Reykjavík – Gardskagi, Hafnir, Blue Lagoon, Kleifarvatn – Hafnarfjördur Volcanic wonders and some of our country’s most unforgettable sights. The Reykjanes peninsula tour offers an extreme variety of landscapes, lava fields and geothermal activity,

MIN: 4HRS

APX: 180KM

Golden Circle

Reykjavík – Gullfoss & Geysir Iceland’s most popular day tour, The Golden Circle, a route which encompasses many of Iceland’s most famous landmarks. This tour includes some of the best known historical sites and natural phenomena in Iceland.

MIN: 5HRS APX: 250KM

Only available from: &

To book your own day tour • Contact Avis, tel. 591 4000 or Budget, tel. 562 6060. • Ask the hotel or next information centre to book it for you. • Visit the My Way website mywayiniceland.is

South Shore

Reykjavík – South Shore to Vík – Reykjavík You drive along the south coast of Iceland passing by glaciers and volcanoes, black sand coastline and moss-covered lava fields as far as the charming village Vík í Mýrdal.

MIN: 8HRS

APX: 400KM

EVENT CALENDAR

VOLCANO HOUSE WONDERS OF VOLCANOES The Volcano House includes a FREE “hands on” geology exhibition featuring many different mineral samples, such as lava from the 2014 eruption of Bárðabunga and ash from the 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajökull. A documentary in English, with Emmy-nominated footage, is screened every hour, on the hour, from 10am to 9pm. It focuses on some of the most famous eruptions of Iceland, as well as talking about the causes and effects of Icelandic volcanology in general. The movie is also available in different languages by prearrangement »» The Volcano House is fun and educational for people of all ages, and kids are especially welcome. (Free for 0-12) »» A fantastic place to start your stay in Iceland, so you know what you’re looking at as you travel around (or at the end of your visit, to make sense of everything you’ve seen).

WONDERS OF VOLCANOES

»» The Volcano House is a great stop on your Museum Day. After standing and reading for hours, it’s nice to sit down and watch a movie.

For more information see www.volcanohouse.is.

SIGURJÓN ÓLAFSSON MUSEUM FEMALE IDOLS To mark the centennial of women in Iceland winning the right to vote, Sigurjón Ólafsson Museum has created an exhibition of classical portrait sculptures of women, produced

FEMALE IDOLS

by Sigurjón. Along with those works, other works by the artist are on display. The works are carved in stone and wood and they focus on the female image in Sigurjón Ólafsson’s art – Das Ewig-Weibliche – taking on the image of the goddess. Sigurjón Ólafsson (1908−1982) is among the best known portrait sculptors in the Nordic countries. He created over 200 portrait sculptures, mostly of

men who held important roles in society. Ólafsson’s female portraits are less well known, apart from a portrait sculpture of the artist’s mother, Guðrún GísladÓttir, created in 1938. For this work he was awarded the much sought after prize; Eckersberg Medal in 1939. Copies of the portrait belong to the collections of three state museums located in the Nordic countries.

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»» Volcano House is a great late-night activity (last show at 21:00), a good replacement if your tour is cancelled, or if the weather is bad (it’s always nice and warm inside). Drop by any time!

EVENT CALENDAR

MUSEUM OF DESIGN AND APPLIED ART KEEPERS Museum collections are collections made up by a number of collected objects and sources that have some meaning to the museum. But how are the objects collected? What reasons lie behind certain objects being collected and where do the

boundaries lie when collecting objects for a collection? The exhibition KEEPERS focuses on the Museum of Design and Applied Art’s collection. It will display the diversity that defines the collection while highlighting the fact that the museum’s collection is almost entirely composed of gifts. The title KEEPERS refers both to the objects themselves, the ones worth keeping, as well as the

Read more about these exhibitions at whatson.is/museums

KEEPERS casts a light on the constant work carried out by the museum staff; to collect samples from Icelandic design history. The exhibition will not remain the same but rather change along with the museum as its collection of keepers continues to grow.

TRIAD Jewelry artist Helga Ragnhildur Mogensen, ceramic artist Bjarni Viðar Sigurðsson and fashion designer Anita Hirlekar have received deserved attention for their works in recent years. The designers’ common denominator is their unique way to explore the very limits of the medium they work in, often resulting in very powerful pieces where surface and texture play key roles.

KEEPERS

people who preserved them, kept them and eventually so generously gave them to the museum for safekeeping.

REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM ÁSMUNDARSAFN DISRUPTION

TRIAD

DISRUPTION

It often falls to artists to challenge old and stagnant attitudes. Ásmundur Sveinsson (1893-1982) spoke of trying to make people “aware that they are not just mindless beasts.” According to Elín Hansdóttir (b. 1980), art should “cut the ground from beneath your feet and make you re-evaluate your rigid ideas.” In Disruption, Elín takes on Ásmundur's artworks, searching for new viewpoints. Elín and Ásmundur work with perspective in different ways, he uses his material to capture the form, while she redefines the space. The contrast between Elín´s recent work and Ásmundur´s heritage opens up a new world for the viewer. Their generations are wildly incompatible, which creates interesting tension, although they also have some powerful attributes in common.

Reykjavík´s Thermal Pools

A source of health

Therm al swi m m i ng pools

Ho t t ub s an d ja cu zz i

Sa un as st ea mb at hs an d showers

For healt h and well-bei ng

Thermal pools and baths in Reykjavik are a source of health, relaxation and pureness. All of the city´s swimming pools have several hot pots with temperatures ranging from 37° to 42°C (98°-111°F). The pools are kept at an average temperature of 29°C (84°F).

Se ve n loc at i on s op en ea rl y un t il lat e

Tel.: + (354) 411 5000 www.spacity.is

THE MAKING OF ERRÓ 1955-1964 An exploration of the development of the artist during the years 1955- 1964, a complex and spectacular period, both in his art and in European art history, when he was the first artist to create “collage paintings.” The exhibition illustrates in broad terms how Erró gradually moved away from expressionism and started to make collages, which he then reproduced in paint on canvas. At that time he also made various visual experiments with painting, text-collages, assemblages and happenings. The works were made against a background of the colourful culture and art world of Paris, and later New York, where he became familiar with the consumer/media society of the United States, and its stimulating art world.

MAKING OF ERRÓ

EVENT CALENDAR

REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM – HAFNARHÚS

MONIKA GRZYMALA

REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM – KJARVALSSTAÐIR MIND AND THE UNIVERSE

BACK TO THE SANDBOX

ASÍ ART GALLERY HREINN FRIÐFINNSSON AND JOHN ZURIER - ONCE WE WERE NEXT-DOOR NEIGHBORS The poetics of perception, place, time, and memory create the common emotional thread between the transformed found objects and installations

of Hreinn Friðfinnsson and the abstract paintings of John Zurier. For the Reykjavík Arts Festival, these artists will exhibit new artworks created specifically for the rooms of Listasafn ASÍ.

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A new exhibition of the works of famed Icelandic painter Jóhannes S. Kjarval. The exhibition comprises two parts: the principal content of rarelyseen works from the unique private collection of Þorvaldur Guðmundsson (1911-98) and his wife Ingibjörg Guðmundsdóttir (1908-2004), and pieces from the Reykjavík Art Museum’s own collection. The exhibition offers an excellent opportunity to see key works from the artist’s career and to gain insight into the recurrent themes which are characteristic of his oeuvre. The themes include Icelandic nature in all its diversity as well as the life and symbolism the artist sensed in his surroundings – perceived by the mind as much as it is seen by the eye.

EVENT CALENDAR Read more about these exhibitions at whatson.is/museums 52

HAFNARBORG UMGERÐ A collaboration of two artists, Ingunn Fjóla Ingþórsdóttir and Þórdís Jóhannesdóttir, but they have worked in collaboration since 2008. The exhibition Umgerð is site specific for the Hafnarborg main gallery but was originally installed at the Akureyri Art Museum – Ketilhús. Various materials mixes with painted surfaces and photographs that along with lighting bring forward countless different perspectives. While the viewer moves through the gallery he is encouraged to capture interesting compositions on his camera or smart phone and by that be a participant in the piece. By sharing photos of the exhibition on social media the viewer has a say on the development of the piece where photos are projected simultaneously into the installation and as part of it.

president of Iceland took the generosity as a gift to the nation. Following this unique decision of both women the bust was consigned to the NGI in 1988. It has been shown more often abroad than in Iceland and it is considered to be among the artist’s most unusual portraits.

PHOTO PAINTING An attempt to explore various forms of how painting is used, reflected or referred to in photography as part of contemporary art in Iceland. Traditional idea of the two media is that they are totally separate and that their character makes them unique in itself. The connection between photography and painting, however, has, from the invention of the camera obscura, been complex but by no means clear in terms of ideas and influence by the visual representation of reality. Media is often defined opposite each other, with reference to

their physical properties. That what seems to characterize the relationship between media in contemporary society, the question of either painting or photograph, is no longer in the foreground. The territory of the media and their attributes melt together when painting occurs in the photograph, and which simultaneously eliminates both and elevates them

UDSTILLING AF ISLANDSK KUNST In 1927, Icelandic art was presented to the public in Copenhagen for the first time. Seven years earlier, in 1920, the Danish-Icelandic Society held the first joint exhibition of Icelandic art, Fem islandske malere (Five Icelandic Artists), showcasing 160 works by five artists in the Kleis Gallery. The present exhibition at the National Gallery of Iceland looks back at a portion of the works that were presented at these watershed events.

REYKJAVIK MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY MOOD Friðgeir Helgason was born in Vestmannaeyjar, the small archipelago just off the south coast of Iceland, but lived in Louisiana for a long time. The exhibition focuses on photos taken in Iceland and Louisiana from 2008-2013. He shoots film on a 6×7 Medium Format Camera and a 4×5 Large Format Camera. He prints in both colour and black and white.

PABLO PICASSO

MOOD

NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND PABLO PICASSO IN THE COLLECTION OF THE NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND Picasso’s widow, Jacqueline Roque Picasso, gave the portrait of herself to Mrs Vigdís Finnbogadóttir, who as a

MIND AND THE WORLD

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Elding Sea Angling EL-04 – 1 May to 31 August at 11:00 and 15:30

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Elding Puffin Watching EL-05 – 15 May to 15 August at 9:30, 12:00 and 15:00

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TREASURES FROM THE COLLECTION It was the magnificent donation from entrepreneur and patron of the arts, Ragnar Jónsson í Smára, to The Icelandic Workers Association that brought about The ASI Art Museum in 1961. The collection included many of the treasures of Icelandic art with paintings by: Ásgrímur Jónsson, Jón Stefánsson, Jóhannes Sveinsson Kjarval and Svavar Guðnason to name a few. Since its beginning the museum has grown and flourished.

and trading centers, and over the years, Reykjavík Harbor grew to become Iceland’s largest port.

FROM POVERTY TO ABUNDANCE The exhibition portrays the Icelandic fisheries at the turn of the 20th century, and realistically depicts the lives

of Icelandic fishermen. During this time, tenant fishermen resided in modest coastal cottages during the fishing season. On display is Farsæll, an original four-person rowboat built around 1900 in the Westman Islands.

THE CINEMA There’s a cosy little movie theatre on the Old Harbour waterfront in the Reykjavik Centre that’s simply called The Cinema. It offers a wide variety of documentaries, made by the renowned Icelandic filmmaker Valdimar Leifsson, on everything from volcanoes to the Northern Lights and glaciers. It has an impressive selection of scheduled shows and it’s also possible to book specially a number of others, including films in German.

UMGERÐ

EVENT CALENDAR

ASÍ ART GALLERY

REYKJAVÍK MARITIME MUSEUM

This exhibition recounts Iceland’s maritime history and the growth of Reykjavík Harbor. Iceland’s settlement can be traced to Nordic seafarers sailing the North Atlantic. The first settler, Ingólfur Arnarson, chose the area that is now Reykjavík to make his home. It was a natural haven, with the inlet at Grandagarður being well sheltered for pulling boats safely ashore. For centuries, this natural harbor was one of the country’s main fisheries

THE CINEMA

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THE HISTORY OF SAILING

FIELDS OF LAVA

EVENT CALENDAR Read more about these exhibitions at whatson.is/ec 56

THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND THE MAKING OF A NATION - HERITAGE AND HISTORY IN ICELAND The National Museum of Iceland’s permanent exhibition, Making of a Nation - Heritage and History in Iceland, is intended to provide insight into the history of the Icelandic nation from the Settlement to the present day. The aim is to cast light on the Icelanders’ past by placing the cultural heritage preserved by the National Museum in a historical context, guided by the question: What makes a nation?

BREEZE EN PLEIN AIR

The exhibition includes about 2,000 objects, dating from the Settlement Age to the present, as well as about 1,000 photographs from the 20th century. 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.

ÁSGRÍMUR JÓNSSON COLLECTION EN PLEIN AIR - ALONG THE SOUTH COAST Upon completion of his studies at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Copenhagen, Ásgrímur returned to Iceland as soon as possible, grateful to be free again. He was determined to reconnect with the land and put his new knowledge to work by painting Icelandic nature and thus expressing his love for nation and country – to capture the moment, the ever-shifting light, and paint outdoors en plein air in the style of the French and the painters of the Danish Golden Age. On his return home in 1909, Ásgrímur went to his native South Iceland, traveling east through the Skaftafell districts in 1910, 1911 and 1912. These travels are

MAKING OF A NATION

documented in numerous oil paintings and watercolours where the artist interprets the pure light with masterful skill. The exhibition includes numerous oil paintings and watercolours from 1909–1928.

NORDIC HOUSE THE WEATHER DIARIES Explore the influence of traditions and the natural environment on Nordic creativity. The exhibition is created by artist duo Sarah Cooper and Nina Gorfer, and it features both poetic photographs and installations created in close collaboration with twelve artists

and designers from Iceland, Greenland and the Faroe Islands. Over the course of two years, Sarah Cooper and Nina Gorfer visited the Faroe Islands, Greenland, and Iceland to explore the influence of traditions and the natural environment on local artists and fashion designers. As opposed to traditional anthropologists, who use their cameras to capture communities and their culture in a scientific manner, Cooper & Gorfer transform their observations into poetic stories told through images. They turn their impressions into staged photographs, adding layers of color, textures and symbolism.

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POINTS OF VIEW The exhibition offers visitors a chance to delve into the collections of six different cultural institutions, the National Museum of Iceland, National Gallery of Iceland, Natural History Museum, National Archives of Iceland, National and University Library of Iceland and Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic Studies. Points of view offers an innovative guide to a nation’s cultural history exhibiting thousand-year-old treasures, e.g. manuscripts, along with the latest in Icelandic art.

EINAR JÓNSSON MUSEUM A museum in the heart of Reykjavík that houses the work of Iceland's first sculptor Einar Jónsson. The museum contains close to 300 art works spanning a 60 year career: carvings from the artist´s youth, sculpture, paintings and drawings. A beautiful tree-clad garden adorned with 26 bronze casts of the artist´s works is located behind the museum. The task of the museum is to colloect, preserve and display the work of Einar Jónsson as well as to conduct research on his life and art.

thirteenth centuries, the settlement sagas look back to life in Iceland from the ninth century through to the period of Iceland’s conversion to Christianity (in 1000 AD). They tell of settlers from Norway and the British Isles and the regions where they settled, detailing their family origins and noteworthy descendants and sometimes giving their reasons for leaving their homelands.

their plots are intricately interwoven. The annual assembly or Alþingi is often a meeting point for characters and storylines alike. The Settlement Sagas exhibition is open daily until 20:00.

Some sagas are composed in the style of a history, such as Íslendingabók (Book of Icelanders), compiled by Ari the Learned in the 1120s, and Landnámabók (Book of Settlements), preserved in two manuscript versions from ca. 1300. Others belong to a group of narratives known as the Icelandic sagas. Although regional in their settings, EINAR JÓNSSON

EVENT CALENDAR

THE CULTURE HOUSE

SETTLEMENT SAGAS

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THE SETTLEMENT EXHIBITION SETTLEMENT SAGAS The central feature of this new exhibition are the nation‘s greatest treasures, ancient manuscripts that are usually kept under lock at The Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic studies. This is a temporary exhibition and a rare opportunity to see these culturally valuable manuscripts that describe the Settlement of Reykjavik. Written in the twelfth and

POINTS OF VIEW

EVENT CALENDAR Read more about these exhibitions at whatson.is/ec 60

NOTABLE FESTIVITIES & RECURRING EVENTS NOTABLE DAYS IN MAY

EVENTS FROM WHATSON.IS/EC

HVÍTASUNNUDAGUR MAY 15TH

BEERPONG TOURNAMENT

ANNAR Í HVÍTASUNNU MAY 16TH

EUROVISION LEGENDS STEBBI & EYFI

For more information about Icelandic holidays, check out www.whatson.is.

ADELE TRIBUTE CONCERT

May 4th @ Danish Bar

RECURRING EVENTS AND FESTIVALS IN MAY

May 6h @ Salurinn May 7th @ Café Rosenberg ICELAND SYMPHONY: THE FIREBIRD

May 7th @ Harpa BRYAN FERRY

ICELANDIC SAGAS: THE GREATEST HITS MAY 4TH, 5TH, 8TH, 9TH, 10TH, 12TH, 15TH, 16TH, 17TH, 23RD, 28TH, 29TH & 30THW More information on www.whatson.is

May 16th @ Harpa

RAFLOST FESTIVAL ICELANDIC FESTIVAL OF ELECTRONIC ARTS MAY 25TH-28TH More information on www.whatson.is

May 21st @ Harpa

REYKJAVIK ARTS FESTIVAL MAY 21ST - JUNE 5TH More information on pages 41-42 and on our website, www.whatson.is

May 26th @ Café Rosenberg

EMILIANA TORRINI & THE ICELAND SYMPHONY

May 19th & 20th @ Harpa

SONGS OF LIFE - STEVIE WONDER MINI-WORKSHOP FOR FAMILIES

May 21st @ Kjarvalsstaðir

MEZZOFORTE IN CONCERT SAN FRANCISCO BALLET

May 30th @ Harpa SIMPLY RED

May 31st @ Harpa HAVOK CONCERT

May 31st @ Húrra

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND EVEN MORE EVENTS, VISIT US ONLINE AT WHATSON.IS/EC SEND US YOUR EVENTS AT WHATSON.IS/EC/ADD OR EVENTS@WHATSON.IS

ART & CULTURE

ÁRBÆR OPEN AIR MUSEUM

REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM This unique museum was founded in 1957 in order to give visitors a tangible sense of Reykjavík’s past. It comprises a village-like collection of over twenty “homes,” each creating a very interesting exhibition in itself. Kistuhylur, Reykjavik 411-6304 | reykjavikcitymuseum.is Hours: The museum opens at 13:00, for guided tours only.

VIÐEY ISLAND

REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM Unspoiled nature reigns on island of Viðey, which has a unique place in Icelandic history. Birdlife abounds on the island, while outstandi ng works of modern art also make their mark.

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Viðey Reykjavik 533-5055 reykjavikcitymuseum.is

REYKJAVIK CITY LIBRARY

FREE ENTRY Looking for a place to hang out, browse the internet, get access to Wi-Fi or meet the Reykjavik locals? Then Reykjavik City Library is the perfect place to visit. Have a seat and dip into the latest magazine or relax while checking out their great selection of books. Tryggvagata 15, Reykjavik 411-6100 | borgarbokasafn.is Hours: Mon-Thu 10-19, Fri 11-18, Sat & Sun 13-17

THE SETTLEMENT EXHIBITION

REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM Experience Viking-Age Reykjavik at the Settlement Exhibition. Multimedia techniques bring Reykjavik’s past to life, providing visitors with insights into how people lived in the Viking Age, and what the environment looked like to the settlers. Aðalstræti 16, Reykjavik 411-6370 | reykjavikcitymuseum.is Hours: Daily 9-20

REYKJAVIK MARITIME MUSEUM

REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM It is impossible to truly get to know Iceland without getting to know its fishing history. The museum’s main exhibitions illustrate the development from rowing boats to m o d e r n t raw l e r s a n d t h e construction of Reykjavik harbour. Grandagarður 8, Reykjavik 411-6340 | reykjavikcitymuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-17

REYKJAVIK MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY

THE EINAR JÓNSSON MUSEUM

Tryggvagata 15, Reykjavik 411-6390 | reykjavikcitymuseum.is Hours: Mon-Thu 12-19, Fri 12-18, Sat & Sun 13-17

Hallgrímstorg 3, Reykjavik 551-3797 | www.lej.is Hours: Sat-Sun 13-17

REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM/ FREE ENTRY The aim of the museum is to shape a unique vision and to be leading in its field. The museum preserves various collections from professional and amateur photographers.

HAFNARBORG

FREE ENTRY Hafnarborg has a collection of Icelandic art and regular exhibitions presenting leading Icelandic and international artists. Collection exhibitions are a regular part of the program. Around exhibitions are workshops and guided tours. Strandgata 34, Hafnarfjörður 585-5790 | www.hafnarborg.is Hours: Wed-Mon 12-17

A museum with indoor and outdoor exhibitions dedicated to the work of Einar Jónsson, Iceland’s first modern sculptor (1874-1954). The museum was built in the early 1900’s when Einar Jónsson offered all of his works as a gift to the Icelandic nation.

THE NUMISMATIC MUSEUM

FREE ENTRY A selection from the numismatic collection is on display on the ground floor of the Central Bank’s main building in Kalkofnsvegur 1, Reykjavik. Kalkofnsvegur 1, Reykjavik 569-9600 www.sedlabanki.is Hours: Mon-Fri 13:30-15:30

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The National Gallery of Iceland has come a long way from its origins. To begin with, the collection consisted of donated artwork, mainly by Danish artists. Today the museum stands at Frikirkjuvegur in central Reykjavik, displaying both Icelandic and International art. Fríkirkjuvegur 7, Reykjavík 515-9600 | www.listasafn.is Hours: Mai 1st-14th: Tue-Sun: 11-17 from Mai 15th: Tue-Sun: 10-17

ASÍ ART GALLERÝ

FREE ENTRY This museum was founded in 1961 when industrialist and book publisher Ragnar Jónsson donated his personal art collection to the museum, which consisted of paintings by Iceland’s most renowned painters. His wish was to establish an art museum that would bring art to the working class.

Offers a state-of-the-art exhibitions on the cultural history of Iceland. The permanent exhibition, Making of a Nation - Heritage and History of Iceland, gives a comprehensive picture of Iceland’s cultural history through the ages to the present day. Suðurgata 41, Reykjavik 530-2200 | nationalmuseum.is Hours: Tue-Sun 10-17

THE ICELANDIC PHALLOLOGICAL MUSEUM

Probably the most unique museum you’ll visit on your trip, the Icelandic Phallological Museum is a one of a kind. Here you’ll find a collection of more than two hundred penises and penile part belonging to almost all land and sea mammals that can be found in Iceland. Laugavegur 116, Reykjavik 561 6663 | www.phallus.is Hours: Daily 10-18

HANNESARHOLT

VOLCANO HOUSE

Grundarstígur 10, Reykjavik 511-1904 | www.hannesarholt.is Hours: Daily 11-17

Tryggvagata 11, Reykjavik 555-1900 | www.volcanohouse.is Hours: Daily 10-21

Cultural center and historic home of Hannes Hafstein, Iceland’s first Minister of State, now houses the non-profit Hannesarholt, dedicated to retrieving cultural memory, and revitalizing cultural roots. Bordstofan Bistro open daily from 11am – 6pm. Short doc on Hannes Hafstein and early Reykjavik Guided historic city walks Tue and Thu at 1 pm by appointment.

Shows documentaries that give a good idea of real life in Iceland, where volcanoes and earthquakes are a constant threat. There’s also a geological stone exhibition, which gives a brief overview of Iceland’s geological history and volcanic system, and a boutique, with Icelandic designs, artwork, lava rocks, pumice, bottles of ash and Lava Jewellery.

SIGURJÓN ÓLAFSSON MUSEUM

A museum that Icelandic sculptor Sigurjón Ólafsson’s wife founded as a tribute to his life and work in 1984. She had his studio in Laugarnes converted to an exhibition space to house his collection of works, including sculptures, sketches, drawings and biographical material. Laugarnestangi 70 553-2906 | www.lso.is Hours: Sat-Sun 14-17

MUSEUM OF DESIGN AND APPLIED ART

Its objective is to collect, study and present Icelandic design and crafts from 1900 to the present day. This young museum, the only one of its kind in Iceland, holds regular exhibitions of Icelandic and international design during the year. Exhibitions from the museum‘s own collection are regularly held. Garðatorg 1, Garðabær 512-1525 | www.honnunarsafn.is Hours: Tue-Sun 12-17

AURORA REYKJAVIK

The Northern Lights Center, Aurora Reykjavik, allows you to experience the Northern Lights in a completely different way, both if you saw them, but as well if they escaped you while in Iceland. The center features information, education and of course stunning visuals of the elusive lights that’ll get your heart racing. Grandagarður 2, Reykjavik 780-4500 | aurorareykjavik.is Hours: Daily 9-21

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Freyjugata 41, Reykjavik 511-5353 | www.listasafnasi.is Hours: Tue-Sun 13-17

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND

ART & CULTURE

NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND

ART & CULTURE

KJARVALSSTAÐIR

Mainly devoted to paintings and sculpture by well established Icelandic and international artists. Kjarvalsstaðir offers a permanent exhibition of key works by one of Iceland’s most beloved landscape painters, Jóhannes S. Kjarval, as well as changing exhibitions that explore various thematic and historical aspects of Icelandic art. Flókagata 24, Reykjavik 411-6420 | www.artmuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-17

GLJÚFRASTEINN LAXNESS MUSEUM

Halldór Laxness is arguably the most famous Icelandic writer of all time, and the only Icelander to have won a Nobel Prize, which he received for literature in 1955. Gljúfrasteinn was his home until his death, and today it is a museum dedicated to his life and work.

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Gljúfrasteinn, Mosfellsbær 586-8066 | www.gljufrasteinn.is Closed for repairs in Mai

ÁSMUNDARSAFN

Opened in 1983, the collection is housed in a unique building designed and constructed mostly by the artist himself from 19421950. The original building served Sveinsson as studio and home; behind it he built a crescent-shaped structure as a work- and exhibition space. Sigtún, Reykjavik 411-6430 | www.artmuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-17.

THE CULTURE HOUSE

Artifacts and works of art from the varied collections of six institutions provide a reflection of Iceland’s visual art history and cultural heritage in the exhibition Points of View, a journey through the Icelandic visual world of past and present. There are seven points of view to be found in as many wings of the house, connecting what you’ll see, independent from the medium or time. Hverfisgata 15, Reykjavik 545-1400 | www.culturehouse.is Hours: Daily 10-17

GERÐARSAFN

SAGA MUSEUM

Hamraborg 4, Kópavogur 441-7600 | gerdarsafn.is Hours: Tue-Sun 11-17

Grandagardur 2, Reykjavik 511-1517 | sagamuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-18

Gerðarsafn is a progressive modern art museum in Kópavogur. It’s dedicated to sculptor Gerður Helgadóttir and it’s the only museum in Iceland dedicated to a woman. The museum collection consists of more than 1400 works by Gerður, as well as the works of the most celebrated Icelandic artists of the 20th and 21st century.

From the time of the earliest settlers, history is brought to life in a unique and exciting way. The Saga Museum intimately recreates key moments in Icelandic history, moments that have determined the fate of our people and which give a compelling view into how Icelanders have lived for more than a millenium.

HAFNARHÚS

The Reykjavik Art Museum took p o ss e ss i o n o f i t s p o r t i o n o f Hafnarhús (Harbour House) in 2000. Hafnarhús was built in 193239 for the offices and warehouses of Reykjavik Harbor and was at that time one of the largest buildings in the country. Tryggvagata 17, Reykjavik 411-6410 | www.artmuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-17, Thu 10-20

ÁSGRÍMUR JÓNSSON COLLECTION

One of the pioneers of Icelandic art and the first Icelander to take up painting professionally. Having died in 1958, he bequeathed all his works, as well as his studio home to the Icelandic nation. Bergstaðastræti 74, Reykjavík 515-9625 | www.listasafn.is Hours: Mai 1st-14th: Sun 14-17; from Mai 15th: Tue, Thu, Sun 14-17

WHALES OF ICELAND

The largest whale exhibition in Europe (and perhaps even the world), where guests can learn about the giants of the sea in a calm and modern environment. The permanent exhibition features whales like guests have never seen them before. It is truly a giant experience. Fiskislóð 23-25, Reykjavik 571-0077 | whalesoficeland.is Hours: Daily 10-17

SOUVENIR SHOP S HOP OF T H E Y E A R 2 0 1 2

The viking:info Laugavegur 1 · Reykjavík Hafnarstræti 1 - 3 · Reykjavík Hafnarstræti 104 · Akureyri Adalstræti 27 · Ísafjördur e:info@the viking

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Two Icelandic themed villages

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Restaurant & Lodging

The Viking Village is a unique place and it is the only Viking theme Hotel and restaurant in Iceland. We have step by step been developing our facilities over the last 24 years and will hopefully continue to do so in the future. We offer Hotel accommodation and Viking houses. Good for families and groups.

The Fisherman´s village, our newest accommodation is Hlið in Álftanes only few minutes drive from the Viking Village. Like a country home by the seaside. Such an idyllic place to visit. The restaurant is open for groups in the evenings. Close to the president´s residence.

ve ri re d nt es ce ut ty in ci m e 15 th to

Viking feasts - Souvenirs - Live entertainment most nights “You haven't been in Iceland if you haven't been to us“ Don’t miss it! Booking: www.vikingvillage.is | +354 565 1213

Welcome to Gló Restaurant AT LAUGAVEGUR Gló is Iceland’s most popular health food restaurant in Reykjavik. Gló offers different set menu everyday: Raw food, chicken, a vegetarian dish and soup. Tasty desserts, coffee, tea and delicious juices are offered as well.

Laugavegur 20b · Open every day 11–22 Tel 553 1111 · www.glo.is · #gloiceland

Austur is one of the hottest clubs in downtown Reykjavik, and has been since it first opened in 2009. Austur is located in Austurstraeti, one of the main bar- and shopping streets downtown, and even though the surrounding area is filled with clubs and bars, Austur seems to be the center of attention. Austurstræti 7, Reykjavik 568-1907

HÚRRA

Dark and raw, this large bar/club opens up its back room to make a concert venue, with live music or DJs most nights. They’ve got six Icelandic microbreweries on tap and happy hour runs till 21:00. One of the coolest and hipster friendly places in town and your best bet of catching the next big thing from Iceland.

KAFFIBARINN

Best known as Damon Albarn’s hangout place back in the days, this most famous bar in Iceland is a popular destination for the artsy and univer sity crowd. During the week it‘s more of a café, but on the weekend the volume rises and KB becomes one of the hottest bars in Reykjavik. Bergstaðastræti 1, Reykjavik 551-1588 www.kaffibarinn.is

AMERICAN BAR

Laugavegur 20b, Reykjavik 581-2200

Austurstræti 8, Reykjavik 571 9999

DEN DANSKE KRO

One of the coolest bars in Reykjavik these days is Kaldi Bar. In close cooperation with north-Icelandic micro-brewery of the same name, Kaldi offers you a selection of craftbrewed beers on tap. Great happy hour and great fun, Kaldi is a place not-to-be-missed!

B5 bar/bistro has become a very popular establishment with the locals of the capital. With its very contemporary and stylish interior, b5 is laid back during the day, while as night falls, the lights dim and the atmosphere changes accordingly. Bankastræti 5, Reykjavik 552-9600 www.b5.is

American Bar is named appropriately since it’s an American Bar in Reykjavík, of the kind you’re probably familiar with from other countries: there are dudes, chicks and random university students partying to the latest MTV tunes. They specialize in American culture and entertainment.

There is live music playing every night at Den Danske Kro and sometimes there are live football games, pub quizzes, beer bingo, darts and happy hours. Den Danske Kro is a casual place in the heart of Reykjavik where everyone is welcome. Ingólfsstræti 3, Reykjavik 552-0070 www.danski.is

BAR ANANAS

THE ENGLISH PUB

Klapparstígur 38, Reykjavik

Austurstræti 12, Reykjavik 578-0400 www.facebook.com/enskibarinn

Ten seconds from Laugavegur, you´ll find Iceland’s one and only Beach-Bar/Tiki Bar in downtown Reykjavík. There, most things are made in the shape of a pineapple. Pillows, glasses, chandeliers, candlesticks and more. At weekends city´s best DJs will make guests feel sunny while they enjoy the strangest cocktails in town. Go for the Flamingophant cocktail!

In the mood for a pint? English Pub offers over 35 brands of beer and Whiskey. Whatever your preference – you will find it here. This is also a great place if you would like to catch some football (soccer). Inside they have 3 big screens and 2 TV’s so that you can catch all the action as it happens.

Find more recommendations at whatson.is

Naustin, Reykjavik www.hurra.is

KALDI BAR

NIGHTLIFE

AUSTUR

SHOPPING & STYLE Find more recommendations at whatson.is 70

ANNA MARÍA DESIGN

For over twenty years, jewelry designer Anna Maria has created her things of gold and silver, a design that is both pure and timeless. Exceptional attention to detail and craftsmanship create the elegant simplicity that shines through Anna Maria’s products. Skólavörðustígur 3, Reykjavik 551-0036 www.annamariadesign.is

LISTVINAHÚSIÐ

The oldest ceramic workshop in Iceland established 1927. Three generations of artistic potters. U n i q u e h a n d m a d e ce ra m i c s , Viking masks and various ceramic potteries decorated with lava, made by Gudmundur Einarsson. Located right next to Hallgrímskirkja and the statue of “Leif the Lucky”. Skólavörðustígur 43, Reykjavik 551-2850 www.listvinahusid.is

FJALLAKOFINN

At Fjallakofinn you can find top quality clothing and good equipment at a fair price. They offer good advise on all backpacking and outdoor related things and offer basic things like backpacks, sleeping bags and tents for rent. A licensed retailer of many big brands, you’ll find everything for your outdoor needs. Laugavegur 11, Reykjavik 510-9505 | www.fjallakofinn.is

ÁLAFOSS

One of Iceland’s major woollen industry shops, the Álafoss store. Situated in old factory premises that for decades were the leading manufacturers and exporters of Icelandic woollens, Álafoss is a company that strives towards offering the newest wares along with the traditional Icelandic wool sweaters. Laugavegur 8, Reykjavik 566-6303 | www.alafoss.is

LISTASELIÐ

IGLÓ&INDÍ

Skólavörðustígur 17b, Reykjavik 551-5675 | www.listaselid.is Hours: Mon-Fri 12-18, Sat 11-16

Skólavörðustígur 2, Reykjavik 445-2020 | www.igloandindi.com

Six energetic women design and create exclusive art, while also running and working in the gallery. The gallery offers gift vouchers, issued by the store or by the Centrum organization that can be redeemed within most shops on Laugarvegur and Skólavörðustígur in downtown Reykjavik.

Loved by parents and children alike and praised in the media for boldness and creativity, Ígló&Indí has offered both parents and children an ever growing collection of clothes with a fresh take on children’s fashion since 2008— representing the best childhood has to offer.

THE LITTLE CHRISTMAS SHOP

On Laugavegur, in the heart of Reykjavík, you’ll find the very unique Little Christmas Shop— which is dedicated to the spirit of Christmas, all year round. There you’ll find Icelandic decorations and everything needed for that festive spirit. Should not be missed as it is definitely one of the most special and fun stores to visit. Laugavegur 8, Reykjavik 552-2412

METAL DESIGN

The jewellery forms which Metal design is known for are inspired by the Icelandic flora. But what stands out the most is the shape “The Coast” that is inspired by the waves of the Icelandic coast.”The coast silver jewellery line is for ladies and gentlemen. Skólavörðustígur 2. Reykjavik 552-5445 www.MetalDesignReykjavik.is

CINTAMANI

Nowhere in the populated world does the weather change as fast, or as often as here. Thus Icelandic d e s i g n e r s h ave to m e e t t h e requirements of consumers who have to go out all year long in harsh conditions. That‘s where the label Cintamani comes to the rescue. Their goal is to keep us warm, dry and comfortable, whatever the weather may bring. Bankastræti 7, Reykjavik 533-3800 | www.cintamani.is

WHALE WATCHING AND OTHER WILDLIFE ADVENTURES FROM REYKJAVIK

“Special Tours is the best!” Reviewed Apr 19, 2015

WHALE WATCHING

Whale Watching Andrea: 09:00, 13:00, 17:00 Whale Watching Express: 10:00, 14:00, 21:00

APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

09:00

09:00 10:00 13:00 14:00 17:00*

09:00 10:00 13:00 14:00 17:00 21:00**

09:00 10:00 13:00 14:00 17:00 21:00

09:00 10:00 13:00 14:00 17:00

09:00 10:00 13:00 14:00 17:00*

09:00

13:00

*From 15th May-15th September Price: Adults: 9900 ISK Children (7-15) 50% OFF - Children (0-6) FREE

13:00

**From June 15th

SEA ANGLING

PUFFIN EXPRESS* MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP

08:30 10:30 12:30 14:30 16:00

08:30 10:30* 12:30* 14:30* 16:00*

17:00

10:30 12:30 14:30

PRICE: Adults 5.500 Children (7-15) 50% OFF Children (0-6) FREE *Daily until 20th August

17:00

17:00 17:00

GLING

PUFFIN EXPR

17:00*

PRICE: Adults 12.500 Children (7-15) 50% OFF Children (0-6) FREE

*Daily until 15th September

Hotel pick-up/drop-off:

SEA AN

Adults: 2000 ISK / Children 7-15 1000 ISK / Children 0-6: FREE Pre-booked pickup service starts 1 hour before departure

WE GO THE EXTRA MILE! Book online www.specialtours.is / info@specialtours.is Call us +354 560 8800, or visit our ticket sale at the old harbour

ESS

SHOPPING & STYLE

GULLKÚNST HELGU

With its wide open spaces and beautiful treasures displayed in glass casting, Gullkúnst Helgu feels more like a gallery than a jewelry shop. Located on central Laugavegur, Reykjavik´s busiest shopping street, this family owned shop is not to be missed. Laugavegur 13, Reykjavik 561-6660 www.gullkunst.is

STUDIO STAFN

At Studio Stafn you will be able to look at art, purchase art and have your art framed! Great works and historical paintings by Iceland’s most famous artists could become all yours if you pay them a visit. If you’re not looking to buy art, at least stop by and take a look.

Find more recommendations at whatson.is

Ingólfsstræti 6, Reykjavik 552-4700 www.studiostafn.is

THE HANDKNITTING ASSOCIATION OF ICELAND

Renowned for its excellent products and quality. Offering the widest selection of traditional hand knitted Icelandic sweaters, the range of products also includes special designs and a variety of woolen products from leading Icelandic manufactures. Skólavörðustígur 19, Reykjavik 552-1890 | www.handknit.is

MICHELSEN

KRAUM

Laugavegur 15, Reykjavik 511-1900 | www.michelsen.is

Aðalstræti 10, Reykjavik 517-7797 www.kraum.is

HILDUR HAFSTEIN

GEYSIR

Inside their spacious shop in downtown Reykjavik, Michelsen Watchmakers offer you to browse one of Iceland’s best selection of watches. Along with their own design they also have a wide selection of well-known brands including Rolex, Armani, Dolce & Gabbana, Diesel, Movado, Swiss Military and more.

A wonderful little workshop, where Hildur Hafstein creates her handmade Icelandic jewelry line, KORA. Inspired by different elements, such as Buddhism and the flower power, a visit to Hildur Hafstein will be a pleasant experience. Although the store is technically on Laugavegur, you walk in from Klapparstígur! Laugavegur 20b, Reykjavik 771-1177 www.HildurHafstein.is

EPAL

Their main goal has been to increase Icelanders interest and respect for fine design by introducing and providing top quality design products from all over the world, particularly Scandinavia. Epal has always been very supportive of Icelandic designers and done what they can to help them promote their design around the world. Skeifan 6, & Harpa Reykjavik Keflavík Airport 568-7740 | www.epal.is

Natural light floods the wooden floors and the fresh white walls of this stunning design hub and retail outlet, which already attracts some of Iceland´s top talents. More than 70 designers are contributing to a huge selection of products that include children’s puzzles, fish skin lamps and exquisite jewellery.

Rustic, vintage interior, intertwined with the latest fashion in outdoor and woolen clothing. Add some puffin, reindeers and other iconic animals and you‘ve got one of the coolest shops in town. This is one place you‘ll have to visit, if only for the experience. Skólavörðustíg 16, Reykjavík 519-6000 www.geysir.com

KRINGLAN

Kringlan Shopping Centre is conveniently located close to downtown Reykjavik. Standing at 50.000 sq.m. and equipped with 150 shops and services, including a multiplex cinema, a seven-outlet food court and three themed restaurants, it has something to suit every need. Kringlan 4-12, Reykjavik 517-9000 | www.kringlan.is

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

Gourmet Experience

- Steaks and Style at Argentina Steakhouse Barónsstíg 11 - 101 Reykjavík Tel: 551 9555 argentina.is

FOOD & DRINK

TORFAN RESTAURANT

This great restaurant combines traditional French cuisine with a Nordic touch. It is traditional but still connects to the present and the outcome is a classical cuisine surprise. Torfan is at Bernhöftstorfa, in one of the cities most beautiful house, built in 1838. Amtmannsstígur 1, Reykjavík 561-3303 | www.torfan.is

AUSTURLANDAHRAÐLESTIN

Find more recommendations at whatson.is

An excellent Indian restaurant, focusing on quality take-away, with the option of eating in. This means that while it‘s technically “fast food”, it’s definitely of restaurant q u a l i t y. T h e m e n u i n c l u d e s everything you could expect from an Indian restaurant, with the Chicken Tandoori being especially recommended.

Lækjargata 8, Reykjavik 578-3838 | www.hradlestin.is

SNAPS

A new restaurant in Iceland situated at Odinstorg. Snaps is a classic french bistro using local Icelandic ingredients. The location could not be better. Snaps is literally a few steps away from downtown Reykjavik, close to the National Theatre, The National Gallery of Iceland and the two main shopping streets of Reykjavik” Óðinstorg, Reykjavik 511-6677 | www.snaps.is

VEGAMÓT BISTRO

Is a centrally located and affordable restaurant that boasts an extensive international menu with an emphasis on Tex-Mex, Italian, Indian and many light meal options. One thing you can be sure of, when you visit Vegamót is that the place will be crowded. This local hit is usually filled with locals for lunch, dinner and during evenings. Vegamótastígur 4, Reykjavik 511-3040 | www.vegamot.is

GRILLIÐ

Newly renovated in its original unique design, Grillið is one of the city’s best located panoramic viewpoints While you enjoy the view, our chefs will prepare your gourmet meal from extraordinary Icelandic materials. Lead by head chef Sigurður Helgason who represented Iceland in the famous Bocuse d´Or competition in 2015 and with him is Atli Þór Erlendsson, Chef of the Year 2015 in Iceland. Radisson BLU Hotel, Reykjavik 525-9960 | www.grillid.is

ARGENTÍNA STEAKHOUSE

HAMBORGARABÚLLAN – BURGER JOINT

Barónsstígur 11a, Reykjavik 551-9555 | www.argentina.is

Geirsgata 1, Reykjavik 511-1888 www.bullan.is

UNO RESTAURANT

APOTEK

They offer some of the the finest cuisine there is to find in the whole city. Grilling meat and fish of all kinds Argentinian style using wooden coal is what they do better than any other restaurant and frankly, you won‘t believe your own tastebuds

Uno is a relatively new, modern Italian restaurant in downtown Reykjavik, where original Italian culinary customs and Icelandic ingredients come together to form a delightful treat. Hafnarstræti 1-3, Reykjavik 561-1313 | www.uno.is

Since 2004, the Joint has kept it simple, fun and delicious. Sitting right by the Old Harbour, in a small, iconic house, the atmosphere of the Burger Joint is hard to find elsewhere. You can feel the joy of the staff, as they serve you juicy burgers, exploding with great taste.

An exciting restaurant located in one of the most beautiful corners of Reykjavik, Apotek Restaurant is casual-smart, offering delicious food in a vibrant atmosphere and stylish surroundings. The menu is a fun mix of Icelandic and European cuisine and the dishes are designed to share and enjoy together. Austurstræti 16, Reykjavik 551-0011 | www.apotek.is

The concept of the restaurant is "c a s u a l f u n d i n i n g" a n d w e p r e p a r e w h a t w e w o u l d call a simple honest, "feel good", comfort food, where we take on the classics with a modern twist.

S K Ó L AV Ö R Ð U S T Í G U R 4 0 · 1 0 1 R E Y K J AV Í K T E L . +3 5 4 5 1 7 74 74 · I N F O @ K O L R E S TA U R A N T. I S · KO L R E S TA U R A N T. I S

SEAFOOD

BUFFET Every day from 17:30

Salted Cod With almond and chive butter, fig and potatoes

3.855

IKR

+3 5 4 5 1 7 4 3 0 0 geysirbistro.is

AUSTURINDÍAFJELAGIÐ

JÓMFRÚIN

The spices used to season the food at Austur-Indiafjelagid are imported directly from India and blended on the spot by their team of highly experienced chefs. The Tandoori dishes on the menu must be mentioned, as the chefs have truly mastered the art of Tandoori grilling.

An open-sandwich restaurant in the Danish tradition offering authentic Danish smørrebrød along with a selection of hot dishes. The restaurant is located in the heart of the city centre and seats 80 guests. It is a popular lunch venue, especially with people from the business sector.

Tryggvagata 4-6, Reykjavik 561-1111 | www.steik.is

Hverfisgata 56, Reykjavik 552-1630 | www.austurindia.is

Lækjargata 4, Reykjavik 551-0100 | www.jomfruin.is

KOL

THE ICELANDIC BAR

PERLAN

A new restaurant opposite the old harbour that offers traditional steak dishes along with some exciting and fairly unorthodox choices. The pride and joy of The Steakhouse is the Mibrasa charcoal oven, a rare oven that is designed to cook the perfect steak by mixing modern technology with ancient tradition.

Kol describes itself as “casual fine dining with a big bar”. The name comes from the unique charcoal oven which lends a very special, rustic flavour to the dishes. The restaurant offers a wide variety of sophisticated cocktails, mixed with handmade syrups and juices. Skólavörðustígur 40, Reykjavik 517-7474

Located inside Listhusid in Laugardalur valley, Glo is Iceland‘s hottest new organic restaurant. The menu consists of vegetarianand raw food courses, meat dishes, soups and salads. The courses are somewhat modest as they are simple, filling and not flooded with too much spice or ingredients. Laugavegur 20b, Reykjavik 553-1111 | www.glo.is

Ingólfsstræti 1a, Reykjavík 517+6767 | www.islenskibarinn.is

KAFFITÁR

A chain of cafés and espresso bars with over 30 years of experience in serving and roasting high-quality coffee. They operate cafés in 8 locations in Iceland, promising a highly knowledgeable staff and a great cup of coffee procured in a responsible and fair way. Bankastræti 8, Reykjavik 420-2700 www.kaffitar.is/en

For the finest in dining, nothing compares to Perlan Restaurant. While your taste buds delight to superb cuisine, you will enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of Reykjavik and beyond as the restaurant gently completes a full rotation every two hours. Perlan, Reykjavik 562-0200 | www.perlan.is

ICELANDIC FISH & CHIPS

This is not your run of the mill fish and chip shop! Not only do they only use the freshest fish of the day, and serve their fish with delicious skyrbased sauces, this fast-food upgrade is actually much more nutritious than you‘d think! After eating, we recommend visiting the Volcano house, it‘s in the same building! Tryggvagata 11, Reykjavik 511 11 18 | eww.fishandchips.is

Find more recommendations at whatson.is

GLÓ

The Icelandic Bar is very aptly named: it is an Icelandic bar. But more than that, it is a bar that aims to preserve the essence of being Icelandic by combining the historical and cultural heritage of this ancient land with the very hip and cutting edge culture of modern times.

FOOD & DRINK

THE STEAK HOUSE

FOOD & DRINK

KITCHEN AND WINE

Situated inside the stylish 101 hotel downtown, Kitchen and Wine is a luxurious bistro with a relaxed atmosphere. The cuisine is seasonal and focuses on simplicity and finesse. The cocktails are also excellent! Hverfisgata 10, Reykjavik 580-0103 www.kitchenandwine.is

KOPAR

Kopar is a restaurant by the old harbour in Reykjavik which has an emphasis on adventure and experience in a brasserie setting. Their menu is composed of various locally sourced ingredients from sea and land, and aims to give you a taste of Iceland in a single evening.

Find more recommendations at whatson.is

Geirsgata 3, Reykjavik 567-2700 www.koparrestaurant.is

FLJÓTT OG GOTT

One of Reykjavik’s iconic restaurants, located in the main bus terminal, BSÍ. Here you can have the coveted “Sheep’s Head” as well as all the traditional Icelandic food, which is a must-try for all adventurous travellers! Vatnsmýrarvegur 10, Reykjavik 552-1288 | www.fljottoggott.is

MAR - SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

A restaurant in prime location in Reykjavík‘s old harbour. The menu is inspired by South-American and southern-European cuisine and the restaurant designed to deliver fresh and uplifting dining experience, unique to the harbour area. MAR is an interesting choice for individuals and groups alike.

SMURSTÖÐIN

Not only does Smurstöðin have some of Reykjavík’s best new Nordic smørrebrød, it also has the added bonus of being inside the stunning Harpa concert hall. The delicious, beautifully decorated open-faced sandwiches are best washed down with an icy glass of the house-made schnapps.

Geirsgata 9, Reykjavik 519-5050 | www.marrestaurant.is

Harpa Austurbakki 2, Reykjavik 519-9750 | www.smurstodin.is

GRILLHÚSIÐ

73 RESTAURANT

Tryggvagata 20, Reykjavik 527-5000 www.grillhusid.is

Laugavegur 73, Reykjavik 555 7373 www.73.is

FISH COMPANY

KOLABRAUTIN

A fun restaurant, with the look and feel of an American Diner. Reasonably priced, offering delicious food and a very good service, you‘ll definitely get great value for your money here. They put a special emphasis on using only high quality ingredients, making for a terrific meal.

Quality, fusion and fun are the Fish Company’s main characteristics. The interior is stylish and the quirky tableware fits in wonderfully. The menu is a world of adventures from starters to deserts. It’s designed to take you on a seafood journey and not only a journey of the Icelandic culinary waters but a trip around the world. Vesturgata 2a, Reykjavik 552-5300 | www.fiskfelagid.is

Offering a great selection of Icelandic brews and one of the most Epic Burgers this country has ever seen (300gr!), 73, a family-owned and operated restaurant is the place to go for those seeking great food at good prices. Take note that the outdoor seating area is a special treat!

Harpa is not only home to the Icelandic Opera and the Orchestra, it is also the location of one of Reykjavik‘s newest fine restaurants. The kitchen is in the middle of the room, where the fiery furnace gives the dinner guests a warm welcome. An ideal choice for people who appreciate fine cuisine combined with unique architecture and elegant atmosphere. Harpa, Reykjavik 519-9700 | www.kolabrautin.is

Experience real Scandinavian cuisine

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

Let’s be friends!

/laekjarbrekka

vurl.is/i

NICE

GREAT FOODGOOD DRINKS ATMO HAPPY HOUR EVERY DAY 17-19

KITCHEN IS OPEN Weekends 11.30–24 Other days 11.30–23

UNO at Ingólfstorg | Tel. 561 1313 | www.uno.is

Enjoy the freedom of riding ÍSHESTAR offers horseback riding tours through the spectacular Icelandic landscape. Whether you join our tours into the wilderness of the remote highlands, through the lush countryside or, all year round, for a short ride from our Riding Centre near Reykjavik, riding with Íshestar is a great experience. For further information check out our website www.ishestar.is, call +354 555 7000 or be our friend on Facebook.

For over 30 years Íshestar has given people an opportunity to ride the Icelandic horse, the most versatile gait horse in the world. Horses are our partners and our passion.

Got a question about Iceland? Wondering if it’s safe? (It is). Who the president is? (Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson). Maybe you’re wondering about where to find some original Icelandic Igloos? (Just stop. Don’t.). We have the answers to these questions and plenty more at our website: www.whatson.is. If you can’t find your answer there, just visit us on Tryggvagata 11 in Reykjavík, or drop us an e-mail at whatson@whatson.is. MUST KNOW PHONE NUMBERS

IMPORTANT STATISTICS

112 – The only number you need to have in your arsenal. If you get hurt, robbed, set on fire or accidentally set something on fire yourself, this is the number you call. Memorize it. Luckily, it isn’t complicated.

330.000 The population of the country. Yes, we know, it’s not a lot.

5885522 – Thanks to a catchy jingle this company had in the early nineties, every Icelander knows this number. There are other taxi companies, but ask any Icelander for a number for a taxi, this is probably what you get.

0 Number of people living in Igloos in Iceland. 99.5 Percentage of Icelanders who speak English. Although we of course encourage you to check out the beautiful Icelandic language, if only for the always hilarious Eyjafjallajökull joke, you’ll be perfectly safe conversing with locals in a more international language.

11 The street number of the Tryggvagata location of the Volcano House, where the What‘s On staff are currently residing. Stop by in case you have more questions, feel like seeing the Northern lights, or just want to chat! 5 Number of post offices in the Reykjavík area. 220 Number of volts Icelandic electricity uses. Converters are needed for people from the UK and the USA, at least for those who like their phones charged and their hair dry and/ or curled.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: NUMBERS YOU SHOULD KNOW!

1818 – If you forget the emergency number, want to call a different taxi company or you met some nice Icelanders last night and want to call them up, this is the only number you need, the Icelandic phonebook. +354 – The country code to Iceland. Add this to the seven digit phone numbers in Iceland and you can telephone to your heart’s desire, so long as you’re calling people in Iceland.

CHECK OUT MORE ANSWERS TO FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ONLINE AT WHATSON.IS/FAQ

Make a toast with Iceland’s no. 1 beer Pour a glass of the number one beer in the country, raise your glass to a friend and say “scowl fyrewr thyer!” You should fit right in. Skál fyrir þér!

Enjoy responsibly

Álafoss Main Store Álafossvegi 23 270 Mosfellsbær Opening hours: Monday to Friday 9.00 - 18.00 Saturday 9.00 - 16.00

Álafoss - Sweaters & souvenirs Laugavegi 8 Reykjavík City centre Opening hours: All days 10.00 - 21.00

Special opening for groups after closing: tel: 354 5666303

– Visit our stores: Skólavörðustígur & Kringlan, Reykjavík. Hafnarstræti, Akureyri. Geysir, Haukadalur. geysir.com –