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

CONTENT LIST FROM THE EDITOR

In Iceland, we like to start the summer ahead of others, by having The First Day of Summer in April. This official holiday celebrates the shift of season, from the dark and gloomy days of winter to the endless days of summer, when the warmth of the midnight sun brings joy to the heart of the Icelandic nation. But even if this day is on the calendar, you are still going to need to pack that winter coat.

The actual reason for this is that in the old Norse calendar, there were only two seasons, winter and summer. But it does make sense that we celebrate the summer this early, it is a month after the spring equinox so the days are already getting longer.

It is all about the sunlight! As soon as the days start getting longer, you have more energy to stay out all day and all night, as well as more time to enjoy Iceland’s majestic nature.

The What’s On Information Centre, Laugavegur 5.

WHAT’S ON — VOLUME 43 — ISSUE 4

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

Publisher: Sigurþór Marteinn Kjartansson

Distribution: dreifing@whatson.is Tel: 830-3629

We are not in the season of the midnight sun yet, however. But that is good news, that means you still have a chance of catching a glimpse of the elusive northern lights dancing across the clear night sky.

So, enjoy the wintery spectacle of the northern lights, happy Easter and happy summer!

Map of Reykjavík: Friðrik Bjarnason

Editor: Guðmundur F. Magnússon

Content writers: The What’s On Team

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

Printing: Printall AS

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

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THE WHAT’S ON CHECKLIST

April is the early herald of Icelandic summer. The days are getting longer and brighter, but the nights are still dark enough for some last northern lights sightings of the season! The promise of springtime is wafting through the air, but it’s still wintry enough to strap on your skis or snowboard to carve your way down the slopes. Plus, you can celebrate the traditional first day of summer!

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

Meet an Icelandic horse. Feel the early spring sun on your face during a horse riding tour.

Spot the northern lights. Book a tour before the aurora season ends this month!

Try an Icelandic easter egg with a saying in it (a bit like a fortune cookie, just a chocolate egg instead of a cookie). There is also Icelandic candy inside most of them.

Celebrate “Sumardagurinn fyrsti” (the First Day of Summer) on April 24 with a frosty ice cream.

Go soak up the first warm rays of sunshine at one of the local pools, Laugardalslaug and Sundhöllin in Reykjavík are always great options!

Go for a fresh ocean dip at Nauthólsvík and soak in the first moments of early summer!

Go check out the Icelandic goat farm “Háafell” and meet the cute baby goats!

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

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What’s On

Staff Recommendations

There are countless things to do in Iceland and it can often feel completely overwhelming to even

Here are a few recommendations from our expert staff at the What’s On Tourist Information Offices on

THE GOLDEN CIRCLE

There’s a reason the Golden Circle is the most typical, classical tour in the country. It’s simply outstanding. Sure, you might not be beating the crowds or going beyond the regular hotspots, but you’ll have time to do that on your next visit! If you haven’t been to the Golden Circle, you should. If you haven’t booked your trip yet, you also…should!

Check out the selection of great tours we have on our website, ranging from budget friendly bus tours, to luxurious private experiences with plenty to indulge in!

JÖKULSÁRLÓN GLACIAL LAGOON

is one of the absolute highlights of Iceland for many travelers, with the floating icebergs on the small lagoon making it look like another world. We recommend going for a two day tour there, in order to make use of the daylight and to avoid spending most of the day in the car. This Tour is a great option to take it all in more slowly and enjoy the scenery of the south.

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

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

ACTIVITIES IN REYKJAVÍK

Reykjavík is a simple enough city to navigate and it’s mostly walkable!

In our wonderful city you’ll find plenty of things to do and there are a few attractions in particular that we recommend, that allow you to quickly experience bits and pieces of Iceland.

Great warm up for your explorations outside of the capital area!

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

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

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

If you just want to see the highlights

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

If you want to visit the newest lava field

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

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

If you want to see a glacier

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

If you want a little luxury

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

If you want an adrenaline rush

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

If you want to hit the high seas

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

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

Taste the best of iceland

ICELANDIC GOURMET FEAST

Starts with a shot of the infarmous Icelandic spirit Brennivín

late night dining

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

Followed by 7 delicious tapas

• Smoked puffin with blueberry “brennivín” sauce

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

• Lobster tails baked in garlic

• Pan-fried blue ling with lobster sauce

• Grilled Icelandic lamb tenderloin with beer-butterscotch sauce

• Minke Whale with sweet potato mash and malt sauce

And for dessert:

• White chocolate "Skyr" mousse with passion coulis

12.900 kr.

How to Travel Safely in Iceland

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

1. Familiarise yourself with Iceland’s emergency numbers

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

2. Follow updates on Safetravel.is

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

3. Be extra careful when visiting geothermal areas

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

WHAT’S ON

4. Keep a safe distance from the ocean

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

5. Stay on the path

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

6. Let someone know where you’re going

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

Location: Opening hours:

Show:

Price:

Harpa Concert Hall (-2 / K2)

Every day from 10:00 AM

Running every 15 minutes 2.990 kr. / $20

7 FACTS YOU (PROBABLY)

DON’T KNOW

ABOUT VOLCANOES

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

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

2. And in second Place…

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

3. Enter the Volcano

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

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

4. New Earth

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

5. SuperFresh Lava

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

6. Icelandic volcanoes are on the move!

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

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

7. Iceland has had volcanic eruptions every year since 2021

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

The Northern Lights

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

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

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

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

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

Different ways to see the northern lights:

Going by coach:

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

Going by boat:

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

Top 8 tips for the northern lights

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

GET OUT OF TOWN

The city lights block the northern lights!

MAKE SURE IT’S DARK

Daylight and northern lights don’t go hand in hand

MAKE SURE THE SKY IS CLEAR

The northern lights appear way above the clouds!

GIVE IT TIME AND BE PATIENT!

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

SIGHTINGS CAN NEVER BE GUARANTEED

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

WEAR SOMETHING WARM

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

KNOW YOUR CAMERA!

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

ENJOY IT!

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

Going by super-jeep:

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

NORTHERN LIGHTS PHOTOGRAPHY DO s AND DON'Ts

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HOW TO READ THE NORTHERN LIGHTS FORECAST

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

Going on a tour?

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

The Colours

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

The numbers

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

WELCOME TO PARADISE

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

MAMMA MIA! (2008)

Friday April 4 @9pm

The story of a bride-to-be trying to find her real father told using hit songs by the popular ’70s group ABBA. Join the party and sing-along with us!

EVENT HORIZON (1997)

Friday April 11 @9pm

A rescue crew is tasked with investigating the mysterious reappearance of a spaceship that had been lost for seven years. Infinite space, infinite terror!

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

JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR (1973)

Good Friday April 18 @9pm

A true classic film version of the musical stage play, presenting the last few weeks of Christ’s life. A musical masterpiece filled with hit songs!

MOULIN ROUGE! (2001)

Friday April 25 @9pm

A poor Bohemian poet (Ewan McGregor) in 1890s Paris falls for a beautiful courtesan and nightclub star (Nicole Kidman) coveted by a jealous duke.

PARTY SCREENINGS IN APRIL

TASTY LOCAL CUISINE

By The Old Harbour

Let’s Celebrate March in April

Rekjavík’s annual celebration of progressive design and innovation is back for the 17th year with a lineup of events, exhibitions and happenings to inspire the masses.

Organised by Iceland Design and Architecture, this year’s DesignMarch festival takes place from Apr 2-6, featuring more than 100 events or exhibitions showcasing the latest innovations in architectural design, fashion design, industrial and product design and more. And leafing through this year’s program makes it abundantly clear that all forms of design will be alive and well in 2025 Iceland.

ADJUSTING TO REALITY

As its name suggests, DesignMarch was originally held each year in March – adding some muchneeded colour to the lull between the holiday season and Reykjavík’s traditionally eventful summer festival season. However, when COVID-19 became a household name, the festival shifted to April or May, depending on the year.

Photo: Álfrún Pálsdóttir

WHAT’S ON

“WHERE CHAOS IS THE NORM AND THE BALANCING ACT IS AN ART.”

The theme of the festival this year is “Where chaos is the norm and the balancing act is an art.” Designers, architects and creative thinkers push the boundaries of the possible with exciting exhibitions, events, workshops, guided tours and openings all over town during DesignMarch. Playing with materials, the interactivity of nature and technology, the use of discarded raw materials and new creative solutions for society are among the things that see the light of day.

TALKING DESIGN

In addition to exhibitions and pop-up events, DesignMarch is an opportunity for the public to engage in discussion about design and the importance of innovation and sustainability with designers from Iceland and around the world.

The festival’s signature event, the international conference DesignTalks kicks off DesignMarch on Wednesday, April 2nd in Harpa. This year’s main focus is the Source. A diverse mix of designers, architects and creatives both international and local will take the stage and tackle the theme from different angles. They’ll share insights on their thoughts on architecture as an “Archaeology of the Future”, radical fashion imagery and new messaging in advertising, AI art, society’s connection with soil, fashion as a portal to other realities, craft heritage, indigenous communities, scent and multisensory storytelling of the past in the now.

EXPERIENCE DESIGN

This year 100+ exhibitions and events are happening in nearly as many locations throughout the city. Check the full program on DesignMarch.is and plan to take in the abundance of innovation and inspiration on display this April.

Photos: Álfrún Pálsdóttir

This

Grab Your Popcorn, Stockfish is back

Stockfish Film Festival 2025 returns to Reykjavík, showcasing the best in arthouse cinema from April 3 – April 13 at Bíó Paradís, with selected events at Hafnar.Haus, Tónlistarmiðstöð, and The Nordic House.

Stockfish offers a platform for filmmakers, industry professionals, and cinephiles, featuring award-winning films, masterclasses, panels, and networking opportunities. This year the festival introduces a ‘Pay What You Can’ model for accessibility, along with free events. A special Italian Corner will celebrate Italian cinema, food, and wine.

The festival opens with Storm Alerts (Veðurskeytin) by Bergur Bernburg, a gripping docu-drama on mental health and creativity. Highlights include The Art Life (USA), Rumours (Canada/Germany/ Hungary/USA), To a Land Unknown (UK/Palestine/ France/Greece/Netherlands/Germany/Qatar/Saudi Arabia), and Luca Guadagnino’s Queer (Italy/USA). The Shortfish competition will spotlight emerging Icelandic filmmakers.

Industry Days & Networking

Stockfish’s Industry Days provide masterclasses, workshops, and discussions featuring BAFTAnominated director Tina Gharavi, panels on Icelandic cinema, on opportunities and benefits of inclusion and an exploration of David Lynch’s surrealist influence. Special events include the Opening Ceremony & Party, the Women in Film & Television (WIFT) Reception, and the Closing Ceremony with the Eva-Maria Daniels Awards.

About Stockfish

Founded in 2015, Stockfish fosters collaboration between Icelandic and international film communities. The festival is supported by The Icelandic Film Centre, The Film Directors’ Guild of Iceland, and other key industry organizations.

For updates and the full schedule, visit StockfishFestival.is

ONE OF THE FOOD WONDERS OF THE WORLD

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

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

HURRAY FOR SUMMER!

You wouldn’t think summer would come to a country as far north as Iceland as early as April. But Sumardagurinn Fyrsti (The First Day of Summer) is a public holiday every year on the Thursday after April 18, which in 2024 falls on April 25, giving schoolchildren and office workers a day off to welcome the season.

Wait. April?

While April is decidedly a spring month even in more southern climes, and there may still be snow on the ground in Iceland, it is the month when summer is celebrated.

The tradition dates back to the old Icelandic calendar, in which the year is divided into two seasons – winter and summer. So, Sumardagurinn Fyrsti is, in fact, the first day of the Norse month of Harpa, the start of the summer season.

Harpa is the first month of the calendar. Since a person’s age was measured by how many winters they had lived (or survived), its arrival meant you could tell people you’re a year older. Counting winters is still how Icelanders determine the age of horses.

Freezing together

It may seem contradictory, but the superstition in Iceland is that if winter and summer “freeze together” – that is, if there is frost on the eve of Sumardagurinn Fyrsti – the summer ahead will be a good one, with an ideal mixture of sun and rain for crops to flourish.

WHAT’S ON

While more urban-minded Icelanders today are less concerned with the weather from a farming perspective, we still pay attention to the weather conditions, looking for frost and hoping (usually foolishly) for Iceland to suddenly be graced with a Mediterranean climate in the months ahead. One can dream.

Any excuse for presents and a party

The arrival of summer has always been a big deal in Iceland, and it was often celebrated with a nice dinner and giving small gifts to children (known as summer gifts). These treats predate Christmas gifts by several centuries.

Today the holiday is marked by parades, with Scout troops and brass bands marching and Icelanders donning their shorts and t-shirts while looking out the window and sobbing. Well, the parades happen, but the attire and outlook of individual Icelanders may vary.

There are typically school-based events for kids and their families to get together and have fun. Some Icelanders go for an ísruntur (ice cream), while others sleep off the fun they had the night before –hey, it’s like a bonus Friday night on a Wednesday!

Pancakes for all!

Unfortunately, the weather gods rarely get the message that summer has arrived, so the temperature usually hovers somewhere between 0 and 5 °C on Sumardagurinn Fyrsti. If that’s too cold for heading outside to watch a parade, just stay in and eat pancakes.

Iceland’s crepe-like pancakes, served with jam and whipped cream, are a classic First Day of Summer treat.

Gleðilegt sumar!

The Fish & Chips Shop is a family-run restaurant. Our ﬁsh is freshly caught on our own boat and processed in our plant, ensuring an unbroken chain of quality.

THE ONLY PENIS MUSEUM IN THE WORLD

and the most visited museum in Iceland

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

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

Enjoy food and drinks at the Phallic Café bistro

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

DayTours

FOR ALL LEVELS OF RIDERS

EXPERIENCE THE UNIQUE ICELANDIC HORSE

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

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

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

Beginners & Experienced riders welcome

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

Sörlaskeið 26, Hafnarfjörður

354-555-7000

www.ishestar.is

info@ishestar.is

HOW TO CELEBRATE EASTER IN ICELAND

Easter in Iceland is a big deal. Not only is it a fiveday weekend, it is also celebrated with big Easter eggs made of chocolate and filled with wise sayings and candy. In order to celebrate Easter the Icelandic way, here are some Easter essentials to make your experience as authentic as possible.

Easter vacation

Easter celebrations are usually much more casual than Christmas, for example. Since Easter is a five-day weekend in Iceland, many people use the opportunity to travel, in Iceland or internationally. Ski trips are popular and Aldrei fór ég suður, a music festival in Ísafjörður, attracts a huge crowd annually. Because these days are the official holidays, some businesses might be closed, especially on Good Friday and Easter Sunday.

Easter chickens

There is one motif that is especially popular in Easter decorations, not the Easter bunny but rather the Easter chick. Easter chick ornaments can be bought everywhere where decorations are sold and every home with children usually has a few homemade, misshapen lumps that are supposed to represent baby chickens. The Easter chick that is most people’s favourite, however, is the one that tops the chocolate Easter egg in the nearest grocery store.

Easter eggs

Easter eggs do not have a particularly long history in Iceland. They only arrived in the beginning of the 20th century but have since become so popular that more than a hundred tonnes of chocolate in Easter egg form is sold annually, stuffed to the gills with candy. The Easter eggs come in all sizes (some are gigantic!) and are available in different kinds of chocolate, but there is one part of the Easter egg’s anatomy that never changes. Each egg contains a small note with a wise Icelandic saying or a proverb on it. Despite the lure of the candy, that is probably the first thing most people look for when they crack their eggs open.

Easter decorations

Many people decorate their houses for Easter in shades of yellow and green. The decorations are connected with the coming of spring and a popular way to decorate is to cut a bouquet of branches from a bush or a tree, and put in a vase with water. The branches will start sprouting leaves in the warmth inside, even though the trees outside will remain dark and bare for a few weeks yet.

Easter lamb

The traditional Easter Sunday dinner is lamb. That is a lucky coincidence since Icelanders love lamb. Considering the quality of the Icelandic lamb, that is really no wonder. There is no specific lamb dish that is designated Easter food, but a roast leg of a lamb is popular. The delicious Icelandic lamb is a welcome, savory relief after a day spent gorging on chocolate and candy.

Easter hours

The times have been changing as more and more tourists visit Iceland year round, so more and more shops, attractions and restaurants are open for Easter. Still, Good Friday, Easter Sunday and Easter Monday are “red days” (official holidays) on the Icelandic calendar, so some places may be closed. It is always wise to check ahead of time, rather than walking or driving somewhere only to be greeted by a CLOSED sign.

With all this in mind, you’re ready to celebrate Easter

Visit the Lava Centre

Are you curious about the latest eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula?

Learn more about the activity near Grindavík and the Blue Lagoon at Lava Centre

7 Things to Know About

relaxed attitudes may just be a result of the horses’

The Icelandic horse is also unique for being the only breed in the world that can perform five gaits (ways of walking). Other breeds can only perform

The three common horse gaits are walk, trot, and canter, but the Icelandic horse can also pace and tölt. Tölt is a four-beat lateral gait that’s entirely unique to the Icelandic horse. It’s a sped up version of walking, but much more impressive as the horses lift their front legs up high, with only one hoof

Tölt is a very useful gait for Iceland’s often uneven ground, providing a steady ride. It was presumably the gentlest on the riders’ backside back when horses were the main mode of

That said, not all Icelandic horses can tölt, and those that can are usually trained to do it properly. So when you take a riding tour, be sure to ask for a horse that can tölt so you get to experience a truly unique trait of the Icelandic horse.

They’re guaranteed purebred

Following an unsatisfactory attempt to crossbreed Icelandic and oriental breeds, Iceland’s Viking parliament moved to prevent degradation of their horses’ genes by forbidding horse imports to Iceland as far back as the year 982.This is the kind of thing you can do when you live on an island.

That means Iceland’s horses have been purebred for over 1000 years. As a result, there are also remarkably few livestock diseases in the country –and authorities keep it that way by even prohibiting riders bringing their own saddles or riding boots with them to Iceland.

The Icelandic horse’s forefathers first arrived with Viking settlers from the British Isles, between 860 and 935 AD. While they’re known ancestors of Shetland, Highland and Connemara ponies, they also have some genetic similarities to the Mongolian horse, which arrived in Scandinavia through Russia.

They can never come home again

They’re part of Iceland’s heritage

Icelandic horses feature heavily throughout the country’s history books. In the Book of Settlement of Iceland, chieftain Sela-Þórir established his settlement at the place where his mare Skálm decided to rest. Meanwhile in Hrafnkel’s Saga, Njál’s Saga, Grettir’s Saga, and others, horses play important roles in fights, as status symbols, and as plot devices. For example, when the epic hero Gunnar á Hlíðarenda falls to the ground when his horse trips he looks at his beautiful country and decides to stay rather than be outlawed, which ultimately leads to his death.

No, Icelandic horses don’t spend their days reading Thomas Wolfe, rather those same restrictions that prevent the import of other breeds from abroad also apply to any Icelandic horse that leaves the island. They can’t return to Iceland.

As a result, Icelanders participating in international riding competitions never take their best horse along, since they will likely sell it before heading home. The crème de la crème of Icelandic horses are kept in Iceland to compete domestically or breed.

In Norse mythology, the most famous equine is, of course, Óðinn’s eight-legged steed Sleipnir. Icelandic horses have the standard four legs, but it can look like eight when they’re zipping along at flying pace.

You can ride one any time

Possibly the best thing about the Icelandic horse from a visitor’s perspective is that you can ride one just about any time. There are riding centres all over the country offering riding tours so visitors can experience Iceland’s uniquely beautiful nature from the back of Iceland’s uniquely wonderful horses.

Thanks to their aforementioned temperament and size, the Icelandic horse is ideal for inexperienced riders taking a shorter tour, and their smooth gaits make them comfortable for more experienced riders looking to spend a whole day in the saddle.

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

Our Tours

Laxnes Special

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

Laxnes Private Tour

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

Laxnes Combo Tours

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

ACCESS TO 18 GYMS AND 8 SWIMMING POOLS

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

BEST WHALE WATCHING SPOTS AROUND ICELAND

Do you want to have a whale of a time? Then go on a whale safari while you’re in Iceland! The waters around Iceland are the natural habitat of these gentle giants, so this is the perfect place to spot them. Baleen whales are a migratory species, and most travel long distances to tropical waters in winter and back to polar regions in summer. The best season for whale watching in Iceland is, therefore, between April and October. Going on a whale watching tour and actively searching for whales is an exciting and unique experience!

Whale watching in the Capital Area

You don’t have to travel far to go on a whale safari, as Reykjavík offers good options for whale watching. Different whale watching companies have regular departures from the Old Harbour area. White-beaked dolphins and harbour porpoises are seen year-round in Faxaflói bay, a large bay next to Reykjavík, stretching from Reykjanes to Snæfellsnes. In the summertime, there are regular sightings of humpback whales and minke whales. You can choose to go on a bigger boat with a refreshment bar, or on a small RIB. The bigger boats have snug inside areas that offer shelter from bad weather, but the small boats have the advantage that you can get very close to oceanic wildlife. At the ticket offices, you can ask for complimentary

motion sickness pills, but don’t worry, tours are cancelled if the waves are too high.

Whale watching outside the Capital Area

You can also see whales outside of the Capital Area. In wintertime, the fishing town Grundarfjörður is where it’s all at. The bay is filled with herring feeding on phytoplankton. Now, seeing breaching herring is probably not the reason why you travelled to Iceland. However, this herring aggregation attracts all kinds of cetaceans, like dolphins, porpoises, and most importantly, killer whales! Can you think of anything more spectacular than seeing a pack of killer whales swim by? There are also excellent whale watching opportunities in North Iceland. The town Húsavík is also known as the whale watching capital of Iceland, because of the many whales in its bay, Skjálfandi bay. Humpback whales, blue whales, minke whales, pilot whales, and sperm whales are often sighted. Because of the deep waters in the bay, there is also a higher chance of seeing rare species like the basking shark, the northern bottlenose whale, and the beluga!

Combo tours – whales and puffins

In summer, puffin colonies are found all around Iceland. The first small flocks arrive in April, and the last ones leave in September, but the best months to see puffins are between May and August. Most whale watching companies offer whale and puffin combination tours. For puffin spotting, it’s best to be on a small boat and to bring binoculars. Puffins are tiny, and the closer you can get to them, the better the experience will be! These puffin tours are possible from Reykjavík. Just off the coast of the city, puffins breed each year on three small islands. Next to puffins and whales, common sights during these tours include arctic terns and the great skua.

Whales of Iceland exhibition

Whales of Iceland is an exhibition in the Grandi area of Reykjavík. It showcases 23 man-made life-size models of whale species that occur in Icelandic waters, like a 25m long blue whale and a full-size sperm whale. It offers a great opportunity to see the actual sizes of these whales (they are even bigger than you think!) and to learn interesting facts about each whale at the same time by reading plaques and watching videos. Educational and fun!

COMMON SIGHTS

Minke whale: a small baleen whale measuring 7m to 8m in length, weighing between 5 to 10 tonnes. It’s black and grey, has a dorsal fin, and will live for 30 to 50 years. It’s not likely to breach, so look for its back and dorsal fin during a tour. Also called “stinky minkes” because they smell of rotten fish.

Humpback whale: a large baleen whale measuring 12m to 16m in length and weighing about 36 tonnes. It has long pectoral fins, a stubby dorsal fin, and a knobbly head. They are known for breaching, their high spouts of water, and for showing off their flukes as they go for deeper dives!

White-beaked dolphin: the most common dolphin in Icelandic waters. It is 2.5m to 3m in length and weighs up to 350kg. They are often spotted in big groups, sometimes hundreds together! They love playing, jumping out of the water, and splashing about.

Book your whale watching tour on WhatsOn.is

Harbour porpoise: the smallest cetacean around Iceland. They are only 1.5m to 2m in length and weigh 55kg to 70kg. They are usually quite shy but sometimes jump out of the water and play with the whale watching boats.

THE SITUATION ON THE REYKJANES PENINSULA

At the time of writing (13 March), the most recent eruption on the Reykjanes peninsula began on November 20 and finished on 9 December. While the string of eruptions that began in Iceland in 2021 first proved to be a largely harmless tourist attraction, the effect on the town of Grindavík has been a reminder to take these forces of nature seriously.

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

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

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

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

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

Good resources in English are:

• Daily news: Icelandreview.com

• Official travel warnings: safetravel.is,

• Icelandic Road Administration: road.is,

• The Icelandic Met Office: vedur.is

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

safetravel.is

road.is almannavarnir.is vedur.is

Kolagata

REYKJAVÍK CITY MAP

REYKJAVÍK sights to see

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

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

HALLGRÍMSKIRKJA

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

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

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

AUSTURVÖLLUR

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

GRANDI

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

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

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

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

HOUSE

PARLIAMENT

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

LAUGARDALSLAUG

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

THE REYKJAVÍK ART MUSEUM

The Reykjavík Art Museum has three locations: Hafnarhús, Kjarvalsstaðir and Ásmundarsafn. Hafnarhús serves as the museum’s branch of contemporary art, through rotating exhibitions. Kjarvalsstaðir is devoted to one of Iceland’s most influential painters, Jóhannes Sveinsson Kjarval. Ásmundarsafn is the former home and workshop of sculptor Ásmundur Sveinsson.

In 2001, archaeological remains of the settlementera hall were excavated, which was inhabited from 930-1000. North of the hall, two pieces of a turf wall were found, which were built before 871. These findings are the oldest relics of human habitation found in Reykjavík.

art collection that mainly comprises 19th- and 20th century artworks. The Gallery possesses many of the keystones of Icelandic art history, as well as a growing collection of works from other countries.

The nation’s most precious treasures are kept and displayed at the National Museum of Iceland. The museum was established in 1863, and gives an insight into Iceland’s cultural heritage from the time of settlement up to modern times.

THE HOUSE OF COLLECTIONS

The exhibition Treasures of a Nation in the House of Collections throws light on the invaluable collections of the National Gallery of Iceland; the art reflects the zeitgeist of each era, for art is in constant dialogue and renewal, in step with society itself.

dedicated to the work of Einar Jónsson Iceland’s first modern sculptor (1874-1954) who offered all of his works as a gift to the Icelandic nation.

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

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

BOOKS TO READ BEFORE YOU COME TO ICELAND

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

THE SAGAS OF THE ICELANDERS

BY AUTHORS UNKNOWN

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

THE FISH CAN SING

BY HALLDÓR LAXNESS

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

DEVIL’S ISLAND

BY EINAR KÁRASON

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

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

LOVESTAR

BY ANDRI SNÆR MAGNASON

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

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

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

I REMEMBER YOU

BY YRSA SIGURÐARDÓTTIR

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

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

Reykjavík Thermal Pools

a Makesplash

Discover Reykjavík’s Unique Thermal Pools!

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

Adults (18 years and older) 1380 kr.

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

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

GO SWIMMING!

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

Vesturbæjarlaug

BEST KID-FRIENDLY POOL

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

BEST POOL TO CHAT WITH LOCALS

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

BEST POOL FOR SERIOUS SWIMMERS

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

Laugardalslaug

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

BEST POOL FOR A DAY TRIP

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

BEST LUXURY SPA

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