AKUREYRI ON TWO WHEELS W
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hile biking culture in Akureyri isn’t as prevalent as its continental counterparts like Copenhagen and Amsterdam, it’s still a great place to bike because of how much green space the town occupies and how close you are to the great wide open just beyond the town limits. Legally bikes are considered vehicles in Iceland and are meant to be ridden on the right side of the road along with motorists. But bear in mind that most Icelandic drivers are not used to sharing the road with cyclists. You can bike on the sidewalks and walking paths, but only if it doesn’t interfere with pedestrian traffic. It’s also annoying to bike on the sidewalk because most curbs are squared-off instead of sloped, which makes for a bumpy ride. Most cyclists are drawn to the paths outside of Akureyri’s dense, hilly centre.
There are a number of glorious paths along the coast (including Glerárgata to the north and Drottningarbraut to the south) that will take you around the Akureyri area. Another popular attraction is Kjarnaskógur woodlands and valley, a lush, green nature preserve close to the centre. Here you find the first tailor-made mountain bike path in the country inaugurated in the summer of 2008. The round trip is about twelve kilometres. Biking is a great way to get to know Akureyri. Bike tours are organized year round (bikes and helmets provided). Or if you’re up for a real adventure (and less pedalling) then rent a scooter to zoom along the coast and the wilderness on the outskirts of town. Get a tour around the city with a friendly guide and bring your kids along too. To rent a bike, check with Icelandic Adventures in Hafnarstræti 99-101. www.icelandicadventures.is
HOF - cultural pillar
H
of is a cultural building designed for music, other performing arts and conferences. The building was inaugurated in August 2010.
Performers
The hall is the home of the Symphony Orchestra of Northern Iceland, as well as the abundance of great performing artist that you will find in Iceland.
Conferences
The building has two larger conference auditoriums and top-notch facilities for
conferences and meetings, receptions, parties and exhibitions.
Dining & shopping
Hof has a comprehensive restaurant service, Icelandic design & souvenir shop as well as the offical tourist information centre. www.menningarhus.is