Mystic History
of Reykhólahreppur and in the islands of Breiðafjörður Bay. Perhaps one of the most impressive bird-sighting Reykhólahreppur:OverlookingBreiðafjörðurfromtheWestfjords opportunities in the area is the majestic and here are still hidden pearls to be found Throughout history Reykhólar has been elusive whitetailed eagle (haliaeetus albicilla), in Iceland which have not been over- the residence of many of Iceland’s most that make their nests in the area and can even saturated with tourism. One of these is prominent chieftains and is frequently be seen flying over Reykhólar. Reykhólahreppur County on the southern mentioned in the Icelandic sagas. Reminders coast of the Westfjords peninsula, asw relatively of that time are plentiful – including a boat Uncountable Islands small and peaceful community, but with museum which has a large collection of the The islands of Breiðafjörður Bay are so natural phenomena and a landscape that is as boats which were used in Breiðafjörður Bay. many that some people say that they are grand as it gets. Over a dozen fjords overlook The oldest summer hotel in Iceland, Hótel uncountable, but ca rtographers have the island-dotted mystical Breiðafjörður Bay Bjarkalundur, just outside Reykhólar, can estimated that there are around 3.000 with its beautiful scenery, historical and poetic provide you with quality accommodation, islands in the fjord, most of which belong to references and exceptionally vivid birdlife. good dining and picturesque views. Reykhólahreppur County. You can arrange Looking at a map, you might think it for an island cruise with Eyjasigling at could only be reached by helicopter or Birdwatchers’ Paradise Reykhólar, taking you to inhabited and to special transportation, but the truth is that Birdwatchers are in for a treat as a wide variety islands uninhabited except for the plethora it is just a two and a half hour drive from of species make their nests on both the coastline of birds which make their homes there. Reykjavík – all on an asphalt road.
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A Service Centre with a History
The village of Reykhólar is the centre of Reykhólahreppur County and provides a full range of services for visitors, including a campsite, stores, museums, a unique seaweed spa at Sjávarsmiðjan and a geothermally heated swimming pool named after one of Iceland’s greatest heroes – Grettir the Strong.
The second largest island in Breiðafjörður is called Flatey Island and was once one of the most important cultural sites in Iceland. Perhaps nowhere else in Iceland has the turn-of-the-century atmosphere been better preserved and walking around Flatey in the summertime you’ll almost think you’re back in the year 1900. There you’ll find reminders of past times – including a monastery built in 1172 and Iceland’s first library built in 1864. Reykhólahreppur
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VAG
Reykhólar • 380 Reykhólahreppur
+354 434 7880 skrifstofa@reykholar.is www.reykholar.is
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