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

August 2025

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CONTENT LIST FROM THE EDITOR

Welcome to Iceland!

Visiting Reykjavík in August is an experience brimming with excitement and vibrant events. The city comes alive this month, offering a rich tapestry of cultural and outdoor activities that will leave you enchanted.

One of the highlights is the annual Culture Night, a city-wide celebration that transforms Reykjavík into a hub of artistic expression and community spirit. Streets are filled with music, dance, art installations, and performances, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display that lights up the night sky. It’s a perfect way to immerse yourself in Icelandic culture and mingle with locals.

August also hosts the Reykjavík City Marathon, an event that attracts runners from around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a casual jogger, the picturesque route through the city’s streets and along the coastline offers stunning views and an exhilarating atmosphere. It’s a fantastic opportunity to get active while enjoying Reykjavík’s scenic beauty. The Reykjavík Pride Parade is another event not to miss, celebrating love, diversity, and equality. The colorful parade and associated festivities create an inclusive and joyous environment, welcoming everyone to join in the celebration.

The What’s On Information Centre, Laugavegur 5.

WHAT’S ON — VOLUME 43 — ISSUE 8

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

Publisher: Sigurþór Marteinn Kjartansson

Distribution: dreifing@whatson.is

Tel: 830-3629

When the weather is nice, Reykjavík’s outdoors beckon. You can explore the city’s many parks and squares, take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the waterfront, or even enjoy a picnic with breathtaking views of the mountains and sea. Don’t miss out on the geothermal pools, where you can relax and unwind in naturally heated waters, soaking in the beauty of your surroundings. With its dynamic events and stunning natural scenery, visiting Reykjavík in August promises an unforgettable adventure filled with culture, excitement, and outdoor fun!

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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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!

REYKJAVÍK WHALE WATCHING

gives you the chance to see humpback whales, minke whales and white-beaked 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.

PUFFIN WATCHING

Only 15 minutes sailing from the harbour of Reykjavík, you will find small islands Lundey and Akurey. On a specially designed boat, you can get close to the islands despite the shallow draft and observe the puffins with the engine of the boat off. A licensed guide will inform you about puffins and other birds observed, such as Northern Fulmars, Gulls and Arctic Terns.

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!

PERLAN

FLYOVER

LAVA SHOW

LAGOONS

Day trip to the Icelandic highlands

Experience Kerlingarfjöll, Hveradalir geothermal valley and the Golden Circle in one day.

Book your day trip

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.

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

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:

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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!

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW FOR REYKJAVÍK PRIDE 2025

From August 5-10, Pride is back and erupting onto the streets, parks, and bars of Reykjavík. Celebrate diversity and identity with an agenda that’s full of singing, dancing, ukuleles, and synchronised swimming. Alongside the party, Reykjavík Pride is also convening the Rainbow Conference, a program of talks, workshops and sharings addressing issues and challenges that face the LGBTQ+ community in Reykjavík and farther afield.

Reykjavík Pride has been a staple annual event since 1999, with the first parade held in August 2000. Its roots trace back to 1993, when Icelandic gays and lesbians gathered in downtown Reykjavík to demand freedom and human rights, a protest repeated in 1994. What began as a cozy gathering with around fifteen hundred spectators has flourished into a vibrant, nearly week-long celebration that draws over 100,000 visitors from around the globe.

Reykjavík Pride has become Iceland’s largest annual event, often dubbed “the world’s biggest small Pride!” Organized by the non-profit Hinsegin dagar í Reykjavík – Reykjavík Pride, any profits or surplus funds are reinvested to enhance the events and support LGBT+ communities.

HÖRÐUR’S EXILE

In 1975, Hörður Torfason, an up-and-coming singer, scandalised the country when he admitted to being homosexual in an interview in the magazine Samúel. His coming out was groundbreaking for the LGBTQ+ community, but society’s reaction was less than stellar. Faced with hostile reactions and threats, Hörður eventually left the country for a few years while the commotion died down.

EVERY VICTORY WAS HARD EARNED

Much like Hörður Torfa was the “first (openly) gay man” in Iceland, Anna Kristjánsdóttir was the “first (openly) trans person” in Iceland. Anna didn’t get the support she needed from the Icelandic medical system, so she went abroad to finish the transition and came out as trans while she lived in Sweden in the 90s. Amazingly, Anna was the only out trans person in Iceland and faced an uphill struggle to gain acceptance.

BUT IT’S GETTING BETTER

Ever since 1940, the year ’gay sex’ stopped being a punishable offence in Iceland, there has been glacially slow but steady (they have power, those glaciers) progress towards acceptance in Iceland. Rigid gender roles and strict heteronormativity have slowly made way for a more liberal attitude towards sex, love and life from the general population.

THERE HAVE BEEN MILESTONES…

The LGBTQ+ community in Iceland today has many legal rights that seemed unthinkable just a few decades ago. Confirmed cohabitation, a substitute for marriage with some of the legal rights, came first, followed by the right to adopt, and finally, in 2010, individuals of the same sex could get married, a ruling that’s given birth to a thriving wedding industry.

Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir has been a prominent politician in Iceland for decades. In 2009, she made international news when she not only became the first female prime minister of Iceland, but also the first openly lesbian prime minister in the world. Her wife, Jónína, is a writer and in 2013, she published their love story after having to keep their private life private for decades.

BUT THINGS AREN’T PERFECT YET

When Hörður Torfa returned to Iceland after his informal exile, he and some other enterprising people founded Samtökin ’78 (that simply translates to The ‘78 Organisation), Iceland’s most prominent LGBTQ+ rights association. Samtökin ‘78 have spent decades educating the public in Iceland and fighting for the rights of their members. Unfortunately, there’s still a need for Samtökin – the fight for equality isn’t over yet and there has been some backlash in recent years, internationally as well as in Iceland.

For more information, visit www.hinsegindagar.is/en.

Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir

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.

A GUIDE TO GEOTHERMAL SPAS

Hot springs, saunas, plunge pools, and steam rooms have been part of Icelandic culture for centuries. If you’re hiking, there’s no better way to soothe tired muscles and achy joints than a relaxing soak. But where to soak?

KRAUMA

Krauma is a natural geothermal spa next to Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring. It’s located in West Iceland, in the valley of Reykholtsdalur, a 90-minute drive from Reykjavík. Krauma has five hot tubs, one cold bath, a relaxation room, and two steam baths. The perfect water temperature is reached by mixing glacial water with water from the hot spring. When you’re in the pool, you can order drinks that are brought to you straight in the hot tubs. If you’re longing for a bite to eat after bathing, there’s also a restaurant. Both the baths and the restaurant are open daily from 11 AM – 9 PM.

SKY LAGOON

Just fifteen minutes from downtown Reykjavík, Sky Lagoon has become an increasingly popular alternative to the Blue Lagoon in recent years, especially given the seismic and volcanic unrest on the Reykjanes peninsula. The vibe is stylishly luxurious, and as the only bathing lagoon within the city limits, it’s also the one that’s easiest to access.

Sky Lagoon

Fontana

A traditional herringbone turf facade gives way to an elegant and modern interior and a great sea view from the sauna through (probably) the biggest window in all of Iceland. The spa’s experience is built around a seven-step ritual, including a cold plunge, salt scrub, sauna, cold mist, and more. After enjoying this vitalizing ritual, there’s a cafe, bar, and restaurant should the spirit move you. For those looking to skip the ritual, you can also get a ticket for just the general bathing area. Booking in advance is advised.

BLUE LAGOON

The wildly popular and photogenic Blue Lagoon is located 50 minutes west of Reykjavík and 20 minutes from Keflavik airport. It all started in 1981 when people started bathing in the curious turquoise-coloured run-off pools of the Svartsengi geothermal power station. The Blue Lagoon is located on an 800-year-old lava field on the Reykjanes Peninsula and is so popular that reservations are required. The water, a combination of fresh and seawater from the nearby geothermal plant, is about 98 degrees, slightly cooler than your average hot tub. There are grottoes, steam rooms, and several on-site restaurants (one which recently won a Michelin star), so spending at least a half-day at the lagoon is recommended. Note: operations at the Blue Lagoon have been affected by the recent volcanic activity in the area. It is best to check their website for the latest information, but we also recommend having a backup plan and staying up to date with safetravel.is.

HVAMMSVÍK

Hvammsvík is a family-owned estate consisting of 1200 acres of land, situated in the middle of Hvalfjörður, a historic fjord in the southwest of Iceland. The bathing spot is right on the water, with rustic pools overlooking the surrounding farmland and the sea. Mentioned in the Book of Settlements as an early settlement, it also became an important location during the Second World War when the Allies occupied Iceland. Hvammsvík is only a 45-minute drive from Reykjavík city centre and an easy drive to many of Iceland‘s biggest attractions, such as the Golden Circle, Glymur, Þingvellir, Esjan, and many more. The spa offers 8 geothermal pools built by the sea, and tough ones can prepare for a cooling polar plunge in the ocean! They are open 9 AM – 9 PM year-round. You will also find a bistro and accommodation, and there is a direct bus transfer that can take you from Reykjavík to Hvammsvík. It is recommended to book your tickets in advance!

LAUGARVATN FONTANA

Located in the middle of the Golden Circle, Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths offers several hot pools, a steam room, and more. Locals have been enjoying the healing power of the natural steam baths by Lake Laugarvatn since 1921. You will find three pools – Lauga, Sæla, and Viska – that are connected to outdoor mineral baths that vary in temperature, depth, and size. Around the pools is the playful stone artwork by Icelandic artist Erla Þorarinsdóttir. Fontana also has an authentic, Finnish-style sauna, perfect for relaxing after a long day of hiking and sightseeing. For a truly Icelandic experience, you can move between the hot pools and the icy waters of Lake Laugarvatn, as the cold temperature is believed to have beneficial health effects. Next to the spa, there is a geothermal bakery where they bake their bread using the natural heat from the earth! Laugarvatn Fontana is open every day year-round. In the summer, it’s open from 10 AM - 9 PM, and in the winter from 11 AM - 9 PM.

SECRET LAGOON

Created in 1891, Secret Lagoon – known in Icelandic as Gamla Laugin (the old pool) – is one of the oldest swimming pools in Iceland. It was abandoned for years but was renovated and reopened in 2014 with brand-new showers and changing rooms. The pool is a comfortable 38-40 °C (100-104 F) and may not be as much of a secret as it once was. Located next to a spouting geyser, the Secret Lagoon is a much quieter, simpler (and cheaper) alternative to the Blue Lagoon and other geothermal baths. Nearby is a geyser, bistro, and a beautiful geothermal area. During the summer, the Secret Lagoon is open daily from 10 AM - 8 PM. During the winter, it’s open daily from 10 AM - 7 PM.

Blue Lagoon

Taste the best of Iceland ICELANDIC GOURMET FEAST

Starts with a shot of the infamous 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 elderflowerhollandaise

• Pan-fried line caught blue ling with lobster sauce

• Icelandic foal with truffle mashed potatoes and Spanish chorizo sauce

• Lobster tails baked in garlic

• Grilled Icelandic lamb tenderloin with beer-butterscotch sauce

And for dessert

• White chocolate "Skyr" mousse with passion coulis

TAPASBARINN | Vesturgata 3B Tel: 551 2344 | tapas.is

Under the Midnight Sun

There are not many places in this world that offer the spectacle of midnight golf, a joy any golf enthusiast has to try at least once in his life. The near 24 hours of sunlight in the summer months allows golfers from around the world to experience this phenomenon. Iceland has golf courses situated in the most picturesque parts of the country, surrounded by untouched wildlife.

ODDUR

Far away from the noise of the city, Oddur Golf Club is one of the gems in the flora of Icelandic golf courses, surrounded by the beautiful valley area of Urriðavatnsdalir. Playing the course is a unique experience. Urriðavöllur, the main course, is one of the few 18-hole golf courses in Iceland, somewhat of a rarity within this young golfing nation. A challenging par 71, Urriðavöllur amounts to a total of 5,900m. Opened in 1997, it is recognised as one of the finest courses in the country, having been honoured with hosting multiple Icelandic championships as well as the European Ladies Team Championship in 2016. Oddur Golf Club also sports an easier-going ninehole practice course named Ljúflingur (Beloved Course), for those looking for a nice day out. Only a short 20-minute drive away from the city centre, Oddur is the perfect getaway from the city for some golf in the midnight sun.

Contact: afgreidsla@oddur.is - +354 565-9092, www.oddur.is

Oddur

The very first impression is the stunning views and great food in the modern clubhouse. The golf club also has a quaint 9-hole course in the hills of the valley Mosfellsdalur called Bakkakot. The 18-hole Hlíðavöllur championship course offers a spectacular view of the cold beauty of the North Atlantic, overlooking Mt. Esjan, as well as the pristine Snæfellsjökull glacier. It will challenge any golf course in the world in terms of dramatic landscape. Situated in nearby Mosfellsbær, Hlíðavöllur is an ambitious course with lush fairways and clean greens which golfers of all skill levels can enjoy. Like many courses in Iceland, Hlíðavöllur is close to the breeding grounds of local birds. The birds haven’t been taught golfing etiquette yet though, so they’ll be the only thing to distract you while trying to sink that putt for a birdie. The spectacular views are the perfect backdrop to enjoy midnight golf on this course, which was designed to flow perfectly with the natural surroundings. A rough ocean and coarse lava fields surround the course as the integrity of the site was placed above any preconceived notions of hole sequences, yardage, or par. Mosfellsbær is only a short 10-minute drive away from Reykjavík’s city centre. After the round, the modern clubhouse, featuring local favourite BLIK Bistro & Grill, offers a respite.

Contact: Hlíðavöllur, golfmos@golfmos.is+354 566 6999, www.english.golfmos.is

KEILIR

Keilir Golf Course is one of the top-ranked golf courses in Iceland, increasingly drawing attention from international guests. It’s a links golf course in Hafnarfjörður, a small town that’s just a 15-minute drive from downtown Reykjavík. The design of the course follows the curves and contours of the land. When playing the Keilir Golf Course, you need to adjust your game to its challenges. Focusing on skill and accuracy will take you farther than power and distance, particularly when dealing with the lava field in the front nine! The toughest hole on the card is the 14th hole played over a small bay. Your drive must be accurate and have some distance to make it to the fairway. The course accommodates both beginners and advanced golfers. Recently, the club opened three new holes on the back nine, which puts more coastline into play. Keilir is a golf course not to be missed! Contact: budin@keilir.is - +354 565-3360, www.keilir.is

How to Have Fun during Verslunarmannahelgi

Verslunarmannahelgi (Merchant’s Weekend for non-Icelandic speakers) is a three-day weekend at the beginning of August. It’s the biggest travelling weekend in Iceland and in many places, it’s celebrated with an útihátíð (outdoor festival).

On Merchant’s Weekend, a steady stream of cars flows out of Reykjavík stuffed with tents, guitars, and Icelandic sweaters, headed for various festivals around the country. People of all ages flock to these outdoor events, which usually feature familycentred activities during the day and concerts and dances at night. It’s a great time to experience Icelandic nature, get to know Icelanders, and most importantly, have some fun!

HERE ARE SOME OF THE MOST POPULAR FESTIVALS AROUND ICELAND:

THE CLASSIC ONE

The ultimate útihátíð is also the oldest one, Þjóðhátíð í Eyjum. It has taken place every year since 1874 (apart from 1914 and 1915) in the Westman Islands, just off the south coast of Iceland. It’s got everything an Icelandic festival needs: camping, bonfires, fireworks, people of all generations getting together and Iceland’s most popular musicians keeping the crowd dancing. It’s also steeped in traditions – a festival song has been commissioned for the festival every year since 1933 and on the last night of the festival, all the people on the island, young and old, get together for a sing-along (Brekkusöngur

in Icelandic, which literally means hill singing, as people are gathered in a hill).

THE HIPSTER ONE

For some people, a festival outside in nature sounds super fun. For others, the camping aspect sort of ruins it. The solution? A festival in downtown Reykjavík! Innipúkinn (literally “the indoor imp”, an Icelandic term for couch potato) is where the coolest people of Reykjavík will be spending their long weekend, far from any sort of rural setting. You can hear some great music, have fun and still be in your own bed (and your own shower) come morning. It may not be the ultimate overnight festival experience, but it’s clean, dry, and painfully hip.

THE UNDERGROUND ONE

Norðanpaunk is like a good-old-fashioned country party, but for the metalheads and punks out there. Held at Laugarbakki (located on the road from Reykjavík to Akureyri, about 2.5 hours from Reykjavík), Norðanpaunk is a fun weekend of hanging out and wild music. Check out the lineup on their Instagram, or at www.nordanpaunk.org/

THE FAMILY-FRIENDLY ONE

Neskaupsstaður is a small town in the east of Iceland and its yearly Neistaflug festival is perfect for family fun. The small town is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and the festival is a celebration of colours and children’s entertainment. The programme is designed so that everyone in the family - kids, teens, and adults - can have fun and enjoy themselves.

Reykjavik’s Best View

From a Bridge in the Sky

w w w . f a l k a k l e t t u r . i s

Only 20 minutes from the city center. Book here

This

REYKJAVÍK CULTURE NIGHT

AUGUST 23

Celebrating all things cultural, Reykjavík opens its studios, galleries, and museums for a night of special events. With so much happening, it’s impossible to see everything, so check out the program and plan your evening—or just head out and explore. Reykjavík boasts a vibrant arts community, and Culture Night reflects this, evolving from a small festival to one of the city’s biggest social events.

The festival embraces culture in its broadest sense, featuring a diverse program that includes popular music, dance, classical, hip-hop, jazz, techno, experimental music, food, theatre, and even sports. The schedule changes annually, but staples like free concerts and an impressive fireworks display remain.

Concerts, Big and Small

Some of Iceland’s most popular musicians perform at outdoor concerts around the city center, including Hljómskálagarður park and Arnarhóll hill near Harpa Concert Hall. In addition to these large events, smaller gigs and performances take place across the city, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

Fireworks Show

The grand finale of Reykjavík Culture Night is the fireworks display. After a day of soaking up culture, crowds gather by Arnarhóll hill to be mesmerized by Iceland’s biggest annual fireworks show, starting at 11:00 PM, when it’s just dark enough. After the display, the city buzzes with revelers and music.

Please note that parts of the city center will be closed to traffic during the festival, so leave your car at home. City buses will be free of charge during the event, though some routes may be disrupted due to street closures.

For more events and information, check out www.culturenight.is.

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.

VAT N N ATURE B ATH S

pre-book online at n a tureb at hs . i s

RUN, REYKJAVÍK, RUN!

Reykjavík Culture Night is one of the city’s biggest annual celebrations, encompassing more than just gallery exhibitions. The Reykjavík Marathon, first established in 1984, has become an integral part of this event.

Originally a humble event for hardcore runners, it’s now a massive event that attracts up to 15,000 participants annually. If a full marathon sounds daunting, there are other options, including a halfmarathon, a 10 km run, a marathon relay, a 3 km run, and a Kids Run. The race starts in the heart of the city center, by the pond and city hall, and takes you through residential areas, public parks, and along the coast, offering a fantastic way to see the city.

The race will be held on Saturday, August 23. Registration fees support a charity of your choice and include a ticket to one of Reykjavík’s geothermal pools. For more information, visit www.rmi.is/en.

HALLGRÍMSKIRKJA

What does it look like?

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

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

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

How do I get to the top of the tower?

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

7 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE ICELANDIC HORSE

home and abroad for being easy-going and friendly. Like well-trained dogs. This is funny, considering how impolite some Icelanders can be – the language does not even have a word for “please.”

Their temperaments can be attributed to nature, since their genetics are so protected (more on that later), or nurture since Icelanders tend to treat their beloved horses like members of the family. So, their relaxed attitudes may just be a result of the horses’

The Icelandic horse is also unique in that it is one of only a few breeds in the world that can perform five gaits (ways of walking), while other breeds can only

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 is entirely unique to the Icelandic horse. It is a sped-up version of walking, but much more impressive as the horses

lift their front legs up high, with only one hoof touching the ground at any time.

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 transportation.

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 can experience this 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 the 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 from bringing their own saddles or riding boots with them to Iceland.

The crème de la crème of Icelandic horses is kept in Iceland to compete domestically or breed.

They’re part of Iceland’s

heritage

The Icelandic horse’s forefathers first arrived with Viking settlers from the British Isles between 860 and 935 AD. While they are 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

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

As a result, Icelanders participating in international riding competitions never take their best horse along

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.

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 are zipping along at a 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. Riding centres all over the country offer riding tours so visitors can experience Iceland’s uniquely beautiful nature from the back of one of Iceland’s uniquely wonderful horses.

Thanks to their temperament and size, the Icelandic horse is ideal for inexperienced riders taking a shorter tour. 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.

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 Visit the Lava Centre

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

WHAT’S ON

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.

A unique contact with nature - come enjoy a steam bath on top of a hot spring and relax in our open air geothermal baths

Experience our Geothermal Bakery, daily at 10:15 (1 Jun - 30 Sept) , 11:45 and 14:30.

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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 films - many with English subtitles.

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

PARTY SCREENINGS IN AUGUST

BRIDESMAIDS (2011)

Friday August 1 @9pm

Competition between the maid of honor and a bridesmaid, over who is the bride’s best friend, threatens to upend the life of an out-of-work pastry chef.

RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK (1981)

Friday August 8 @9pm

Archaeologist and adventurer Indiana Jones is hired by the U.S. government to find the Ark of the Covenant before the Nazis. A true classic from Steven Spielberg!

GHOSTBUSTERS (1984)

Friday August 22 @9pm

Three parapsychologists forced out of their university funding set up shop as a unique ghost removal service in New York City, attracting frightened yet skeptical customers.

MURIEL’S WEDDING (1994)

Friday August 29 @9pm

A young social outcast steals money from her parents to finance a vacation hoping to find happiness, and perhaps love, instead of wasting her life alone in her room listening to ABBA records and never going on a date.

THE SITUATION ON THE REYKJANES PENINSULA

At the time of writing (16 July), there is an ongoing eruption on the Reykjanes peninsula that started at 4 AM on 16 July. 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 2024 after being closed with exceptions for residents and other relevant people for over a year. At the time of writing, it has been closed again due to the most recent eruption.

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 supposed to open at noon, but opening times can change at a short notice due to volcanic activity. We recommend staying up to date and checking your reservation online before you go. Check for the latest updates here: bluelagoon.com/seismicactivity

New eruptions on the Reykjanes peninsula can 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: ruv.is/english

• 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/).

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.

7 FUN THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS IN REYKJAVÍK

Reykjavík is an amazing place to travel with kids at any time of year. It’s bursting with colourful houses, squares and parkettes, and interactive museums that encourage young (and old) imaginations to flourish.

Here are a few of our favourite things to do with kids in Reykjavík.

Soak up some culture

We’re of the opinion that you’re never too young for museums. Reykjavík has a lot to choose from, but those that we’ve found to be most kid-approved have an interactive element or two.

The Maritime Museum will teach the whole family about Iceland’s fishing tradition from the olden days up to modern times, while allowing kids to dress up like fishermen, go on a scavenger hunt through the exhibit, and try their hand stacking crates of fish with a forklift.

The Settlement Exhibition Reykjavík 871±2 is another family favourite. Built around the remains of a Viking longhouse excavated smackdab in the middle of Reykjavík, the museum tells the story of Reyjavík’s settlement (in the year 871, give or take

a couple years) with interactive screens to learn more about the rocky remains. There’s also a room where kids can dress as Viking settlers and play old games.

Also great for families travelling with younger members are the Árbær Open Air Museum, with its turf houses and olden-day charm, and the National Museum of Iceland, which has a room for families to enjoy.

Meet the ducks

Reykjavík’s central pond, Tjörnin, is home to a healthy population of ducks, geese and swans, in part thanks to its proximity to Vatnsmýri, a protected wetland and bird sanctuary, to the south. A stroll around the pond is a great way to spot the pairs of ducks floating around and doing their thing.

Feeding bread to the ducks is frowned upon – and not allowed at all over the summer when ducklings arrive – but if you happen to have frozen peas or birdseed in your pocket, feel free to toss that for your new beaked buddies.

Expect to see mallards, gadwall, greater scaup, tufted ducks and teal, plus greylag geese and

swans. There’s also a sign on the north end of the pond (by City Hall) with descriptions of some birds you might spot in the area.

Go for a dip

Iceland’s thermal pools are good for swimming laps and lounging around in, but they’re also tons of fun for kids. Many locations have kids’ pools, with fountains and slides for the littlest ones, and bigger kids will get a thrill out of the bigger slides with their twists and turns.

Just remember: shower with soap before suiting up and jumping in.

Ride a horse

Even if you’re not a family of avid equestrians, you can enjoy a day on horseback in Iceland. Icelandic horses are known for their calm and friendly nature, making them perfect for inexperienced adults or children to ride – plus they’re shorter than horses you find in other parts of the world, so climbing into the saddle is less intimidating an experience.

Always check the minimum age requirements before booking a riding tour, but some will welcome kids as young as 7-years old. It’ll be an unforgettable experience for kids of all ages.

Hit the high seas

Introduce your kids to whales while in Iceland. A number of whale watching tours depart from Reykjavík’s old harbour year-round, taking you out on Faxaflói Bay for a chance to spot humpback whales, minke whales, white-beaked dolphins and harbour porpoises.

There’s a real thrill in the hunt, and the excitement onboard goes through the roof at the sight of a humpback’s mighty fluke slapping the water. Go later in the spring or during the summer to also see puffins, which are not the most graceful of birds –kids and adults will get a laugh as they crash-land on the water’s surface.

Kids that don’t have the patience (or the stomach) for a three-hour tour might opt for a visit to Whales of Iceland, where they can come face to face with the true scale of the gentle giants of the sea, learn about whales and play on the orca-themed climbing structure.

Go inside a glacier

For an activity that your kids will be ooh-ing and ahh-in over long after you’ve departed Iceland, take them inside a glacier. A tour atop Langjökull glacier and into a man-made tunnel dug into it a few years back is a suitable adventure for the whole family. Those travelling with adventurous kids 6-years or older are also able to take a tour of the natural ice cave in Katlajökull glacial tongue, part of the glacier covering the mighty Katla volcano.

Don’t feel like schlepping to a real glacier? Perlan has brought the ice cave experience to Reykjavík. Just catch a shuttle to the glass-domed building on Öskjuhlíð to visit Perlan’s Ice Cave and Glacier Exploratorium, the world’s first indoor ice cave. There’s also an ice cream parlour and cafe at Perlan, which you definitely won’t find atop a real glacier.

Visit Laugardalur

If it’s a nice day to spend outdoors, there are few better places to be than in Reykjavík’s Laugardalur neighbourhood. Take the kids to the Reykjavík Family Park and Zoo to meet Icelandic farm animals, plus foxes, seals and reindeer. Let them run wild and jump on the air trampoline in the park’s expansive play area, and then wind down with a stroll through Reykjavík’s Botanic Garden. It’ll be a day well spent just outside the city centre.

If you’re spending a day or two exploring Reykjavík’s museums and swimming pools, consider buying the Reykjavík City Card. Available for 24hr, 48hr, and 72hr periods for kids and adults, it gives you access to museums, swimming pools, public transport, and more at one low price.

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.

SUMMER BEERS in the city

Did you know that up until 1989, beer was banned in Iceland? Iceland, like so many other countries, went through a period of prohibition, but through a fluke of international trade agreements, anti-Danish sentiment during the fight for independence, and prevailing preferences at the time – wine and strong liquor were made freely available for some 50 years before Icelanders had a chance to drink beer.

We’ve been making the most of this opportunity ever since March 1, 1989, when the ban was lifted. In recent years, Iceland has seen a boom in craft breweries, expanding the selection of beer styles and flavours available in the city exponentially! Most breweries also create seasonal beers, experimenting and creating curious and inventive drinks for summer.

While summer beers are available in the country’s state-operated wine stores, the best way to enjoy them is on a sunny day in the city centre, straight from the tap.

EINSTÖK

Where – Laugavegur 10

What to drink – Einstök Arctic Berry Ale

Why – While Einstök’s white ale is close to the perfect summer drink (especially with a slice of orange), the arctic berry ale just has that extra taste of summer. Flavoured with bilberries, they’ll give any Icelander an immediate nostalgia for the long summer nights of their childhood, when they popped fresh berries in their mouths under the midnight sun

RVK BREWING COMPANY

Where – Skipholt 33

What to drink – RVK Kopar Klassík

Why – RVK Brewing Company runs a micro brewery and a taproom in Skipholt, with the latter located in an old and famous bingo hall. It has become an instant hit since opening last year, with great beers on tap, regular concerts and other events. In some ways, it has filled the vacuum that KEX Hostel left behind when they closed down to add more hotel rooms.

SKÚLI

Where – Aðalstræti 9 (Fógetatorg square) What to drink – Sólrún (Wheat beer)

Why – When was the last time you has a double milkshake IPA with coconut and pineapple? Or a sour beer flavoured with currants and raspberries? There are plenty of less tropical options as well but this should give you an idea of the range available at Skúli craft bar, where there’s always something interesting to try on tap.

KALDI

Where – Laugavegur 20a

What to Drink – Sumarkaldi

Why – While the dark and moody Kaldi bar serves a mean gin and tonic, the real reason to stop by is to taste a fresh glass of Sumarkaldi – a light and refreshing German lager – straight from the tap. No bells and whistles: just an endlessly drinkable beer.

"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.