The Icelandic Horse

The Icelandic Horse

The Icelandic horse is rather small, its height usually being about 140 cm. It is sturdy and hardworking and has greater endurance than its foreign cousins. It has a characteristic varied colouring that breeders have attempted to preserve rather than eliminate. As a riding animal, the Icelandic horse is exceptional in that it has five gaits, called fet, skeið, tölt, brokk and stökk in Icelandic. It has become famous internationally for its various gaits and smooth movement.

Icelandic horses are considered energetic and ready to run, and they are also admired for their even and friendly disposition. Icelandic farmers have traditionally been interested in the strength and endurance of horses.

The Icelandic horse has been a trusted companion for Icelanders throughout history. Its origins can be traced back to the Vikings, who arrived in Iceland more than a thousand years ago, bringing their small Nordic horses with them. Due to isolation and strict rules, the breed has remained pure and has maintained its unique characteristics.

Despite its small size, the Icelandic horse is well known for being strong and hardy, with great stamina and speed. It is surefooted enough to handle the rough Icelandic terrain and is renowned for its five gaits, and the unique” tölt”, a four beat gait with light flowing movement, which is easy and comfortable to ride. The other gaits are walk, trot, gallop and flying pace. The Icelandic horse has a wide colour palette, varying from black to palomino, to silver dappled and a range of colours in between. It is intelligent, faithful and a friendly companion that is able to carry riders across grassy plains, up and down rocky slopes, through rivers and over fields of rough lava. This is the ideal way for travellers to enjoy the excellent Icelandic nature and therefore horse riding is highly recommended for visitors during their stay in Iceland. Horse rentals offer tours both for beginners and more experienced riders, ranging from 2 hours to full day tours. These are ideal for horse lovers and enthusiasts, as there is no better way to experience the magnificent nature of Iceland, than galloping through the countryside on the back of an Icelandic horse. Eldhestar tour around Hekla Eldhestar near Hveragerði, a company specializing in horseback riding tours. Offer various longer tours for 2-7 days, such as the Volcano Contrasts (2d), Þórsmörk (4d) and Around the Glaciers (7d). All transport and accommodation as well as safety gear is included in the price. Eldhestar has experienced guides who speak a variety of languages. www.eldhestar.is

Icelandic Horse. Photo by Olga

The horse rental, which is located in Reykjavík, is placed as the number one thing to do in Iceland on the travelling website TripAdvisor. The service is provided by Begga Rist and her staff and highly praised by the customers. Begga is an educated tour guide which speaks seven languages. Understandably they are very pleased to receive these fantastic comments. Begga says that it touches her to read that the visitors have written things like; “Memories for a lifetime“ -“A truly unique experience, highly recommended“ – “The highlight of my trip, an absolute must do“ – “Experienced riders loved this place“.

Icelandic Horses: Red skwebald, Black, Dark Bay, Grey mare with a foal, Red-dun, Light black, Bay-roan, Bay skewbald, Pale dun, Dun, Palamino, Buckskin, Blue dun, Silver dapple, Chestnut, Dapple grey, Black skewbald, Silver dapple, skewbald, Yellow dun, Dark roan stud mare with a foal, Chestnut with white socks, Buckskin, light.

ÍSLENSKI HESTURINN – THE ICELANDIC HORSE. islenskihesturinn.is · info@ islenskihesturinn.is · Surtlugata 3 · 110 Reykjavík · Tel. 434 7979

VOLCANIC LANDSCAPE · MOUNTAIN VIEW · 10 MIN FROM DOWNTOWN REYKJAVIK THE HORSE RENTAL IN REYKJAVIK. Nr 1 to do in Iceland RIDING TOURS EVERY DAY

Get to know the Icelandic horse in the spectacular wild and volcanic landscape surrounding Reykjavík. Begga Rist licensed guide PICK UP from hotels and guesthouses in Reykjavík.

VIKING HORSES is a family run business which focuses on small groups and personalized experience. Viking Horses strives to make our guests wishes come true and create the experience of a lifetime. Located on the outskirts of Reykjavik, surrounded by green nature, mountains, lakes and lava. One of our favorite treks goes through the spectacular volcanic landscape of the Red Hills, which are 5,200 years old red lava formations. We have a great selection of well tamed quality horses for kids, beginners and more experienced riders.

“Bathing in a natural hot spring after horse riding is one of those feeling no words can describe – you just have to experience it !” Included All our tours start with a riding lesson and end with a Icelandic meal. Meal can include #latbread with smoked lamb, or as we call it, “#latkaka með hangikjöti”, deep fried sweetbread „kleinas“, Skyr with fresh berries, beverages and traditional Icelandic vegetable- or meatsoup. The company provides riding gear, warm outerwear and helmets..

Tel. (+354) 537 9590 or (+354) 660 9590 // Almannadalur 19, Reykjavik www.vikinghorses.is

Iceland Tourist board Private tours, picnics, Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle, Icelandic food, natural baths, unique experience and much more. SMALL GROUPS – BIG ADVENTURES

North West Iceland

North West Iceland

North west Iceland is a part of the country that Icelanders themselves are discovering more and more.

This area is the setting for many Icelandic sagas, the most important of which is the saga of Grettir-The-Strong. North west Iceland is also the setting for the book Burial Rites by the Australian writer, Hanna Kent, which was published in 2014.

This is an historical novel based on the famous murder case in 1828 of Agnes and Friðrik. They were condemned to death for murder and were the last culprits to be executed in Iceland. The book has enjoyed much popularity worldwide.

Please note that there are quite a few gravel roads in this area, e.g. Road 711 around Vatnsnes peninsula. Over the winter months, it is essential to check weather and road conditions before setting off on your journey. Some places are closed over the winter but it is possible to get information from the information centres or on the website www.northiceland.is

Countless natural wonders can be found all over this area, such as Hvítserkur A, the troll of the Northwest rising proudly from the ocean waves and Kolugljúfur B, a magnificent gorge and waterfall named after a troll called Kola.

The hidden pearls are:

1Hvammstangi is the first stop around the Vatnsnes peninsula coming from the south, only 197 km from Reykjavík. This is a charming little village with 550 inhabitants and the biggest seal colony in Iceland. The Icelandic Seal Centre has a very interesting exhibition on seals, their biology and co-existence with humans. Seal watching tours are offered from Hvammstangi.

It is easy to forget oneself in the Bardúsa Gallery which is a shop and museum selling quality souvenirs. Kidka is one of the biggest wool factories in Iceland where it is possible to buy top quality fashionable woollen clothes.

Icelandic Geysers. Photo by Olga

Other tourist services in Hvammstangi include guesthouses, good restaurants, a sheltered camping site and a swimming pool.

2 Illugastaðir is the setting for Burial Rites, which was mentioned earlier. It is an excellent location for seal watching.

On most days of the year, seals can be seen swimming or just lounging on the skerries close to land. There is a good camping site at Illugastaðir with facilities for camper vans.

3 Geitafell is a perfect stop for the hungry on Vatnsnes. It offers fresh seafood on the menu with a deilicious fish soup topping the list. A countryside surprise.

4 Borgarvirki, also known as The Citadel is a volcanic plug that was used by the Vikings as a fortress during

times of strife. A wonderful view from the top at 177m, but it is not an easy walk. Be careful.

The entire central part of Iceland is uninhabited highlands, with unbound glacial rivers, black sands and the hardy arctic flora. This region has long been a barrier for travellers between the north and south. Two main roads lie across the highlands. The shorter and easier one, Kjölur, runs between the glaciers Langjökull and Hofsjökull while the more demanding one, Sprengisandur, lies between Hofsjökull and Vatnajökull. In earlier times those roads were said to be severely haunted by the ghosts of people that were lost on the way.

The highland roads have improved much but are still only open in summer to well equipped vehicles, since they run through rough terrain and over unbridged rivers. Although the nature and travelling conditions of the highlands are rough, the area contains many wonderful sites, such as the hot springs and natural baths at Landmannalaugar and Herðubreiðarlindir.

5 Þingeyrarkirkja is an impressive ancient stone church which gives a sense of grandeur to the area. It took thirteen years to build, using unusual methods which are attributed to its pristine condition still today. The interior of the church is no less grand with valuable artifacts and features.

6 Spákonuhof in Skagaströnd is the Museum of Prophecies where futures, pasts and presents come together. Focusing on Þórdís, the famous soothsayer and first inhabitant of the area, this museum is full of surprises, both for adults and children. The Árnes Museum is the oldest house in Skagaströnd and depicts the living conditions of early 20th century. Skagaströnd Golf Course is a 9–hole course with spectacular views over the fjord.

7 Reykir, a campsite with a difference. It is host to a seaside hot tub (about 40°C) called Grettislaug. A remote location with superb views of surrounding mountains and the ocean. It is also the place from which the boat tours to Drangey Island depart. Drangey Island, just off the Skagaströnd coast, is a birdwatcher‘s paradise as it is the nesting colony for a wide variety of birds, the main star being the puffin. Drangey island also served as a place of refuge for the longest-surviving Icelandic outlaw, Grettir-The-Strong.

8 Glaumbær farm and museum offers a wonderful opportunity to experience conditions in a turf home and gain insight into the harsh living conditions of Icelanders in the past. Besides the turf farmhouse dating back to the mid 18th century, there are also two 19th century timber houses which are good examples of the first timber houses built in the area.

9 Hólar in Hjaltadalur was the centre of religion and education for centuries, and is one of two Episcopal seats in Iceland. Today, it is home to the oldest stone cathedral in the country, a university college and a thriving tourism service.

10 Hofsós is a quaint little village with 146 inhabitants. It is one of the oldest trading centres in Iceland and boasts a visible heritage in its renovated buildings. Vesturfarasetrið is the Icelandic Emigration Centre which has information on the Icelandic diaspora to America. The Hofsós swimming pool could be seen as the forerunner to the infinity pool, situated on a hilltop with magnificent views over the ocean, you can be forgiven for being awestruck.

11 Siglufjörður in North Iceland has 1200 inhabitants and was the capital of herring fishing up to the late 60’s. These glory days have been immortalized in an impressive award winning museum called The Herring Era Museum, which is housed in five historical buildings and occupies a large part of town. The magnificent luxurious Sigló Hotel dominates the waterfront and together with two popular restaurants, Hannes Boy and Kaffi Rauðka, form a colourful backdrop to the marina village, which is a popular outdoor area in the summer.

Reykjavík for the Seasons

Reykjavík for the Seasons

Summer

In the days of the midnight sun, Reykjavík becomes a city that never sleeps. Popular summertime activities include whale-watching, sea-angling, horseback-riding and trips to the many natural wonders just outside the city limits.

Perhaps one of the more remarkable summer destinations within Reykjavík city is the geothermal beach at Nauthoslvik, where you can spend the afternoon enjoying a picnic or swimming in a heated ocean lagoon. Sea-swimmers can enjoy the cooler waters of the Atlantic and warm up afterwards in the sauna or the two giant hot tubs.

One of the best things about Reykjavík is its abundance of exceptional coffee houses, staffed with talented baristas. On a hot sunny day, the thriving coffee culture often spills out onto the streets – particularly around Austurvöllur square, where coffee-loving crowd can be found sipping coffee, hot or iced, while soaking up the sun.

Autumn

Reykjavík's calendar of events goes into high gear during the fall, with festivals, conferences, and other cultural events taking place. Kicking off the season at the end of September is the Reykjavík International Film Festival, which highlights independent filmmaking and showcases the work of up-and-coming filmmakers. The biannual Reykjavík International Literary festival in September as well, hosting Icelandic writers as well as international guests.

Fans of peace, love and John Lennon won't want to miss Yoko Ono's annual imagine Peace Tower ceremony in October, where she invites everyone to join her for the illumination of a superbeam of light on Videy Island. The work of art is dedicated to Lennon's vision of peace and is lit every yearon his birthday.

In early November, you can experience the Icelandic music scene's crowning glory, Iceland Airways – the coolest music festival of them all. The five-day music extravaganza draws top performers, countless festivalgoers and media attention from around the globe.

Winter

There's never a dull day in Reykjavík during the wintertime, even if they are dark! Apart from the occasional fall of snow and regular displays of Norther Lights, there's also a full calendar of cultural events and festivities; concerts, plays and many seasonal exhibitions.

Christmas season is always celebrated with great splendour. The city's buildings, trees and streets are decorated with countless twinkly lights, ornaments and Christmas displays and Christmas concerts and events are popular.

Winter-sports enthusiasts will find many of exciting winter tours available from Reykjavík including super jeep tours, horseback riding, dog sledding and snowmobiling on a glacier, etc.

In February, you can enjoy the tasty Food & Fun Festival, followed closely by the Winter Lights Festival, which always delivers a packed program full of special events for the whole family.

Yachts in the port of the capital. Photo by Olga

Spring

In between the sunshine, showers and dustings of snow, the first blooms peek out at the Botanical Gardens in early April, and the new generation of farm animals arrives at the Reykjavík Family Park & Zoo.

As the ice melts on lake Tjörnin, you'll also notice the nation getting back to their outdoor routine, donning their jogging shoes, climbing back on their bikes and firing-up their grills for outdoor BBQs. It's a great time to visit the outdoor areas of Reykjavík, and after a long day of activities. Reykjavík's geothermal swimming pools are relaxing and soothing for tired travellers.

March is dedicated to Icelandic design, with the Design March Festival transforming the city into one big venue for exhibitions, fashion shows and other design-related events. Other events on the festival calendar include the Children's Vulture Festival. The First Day of Summer Celebrations and the Reykjavík Horse Festival.

Reykjavík for the whole family

Families will find plenty of interesting activities in Reykjavík. Whether it's splashing around in a geothermally heated swimming pool, trying on Viking armour or viewing whales at close range, kids of all ages will find something to enjoy.

Reykjavík is particularly family-friendly. It's safe and clean city, simple to navigate on foot, with easy access to nature. Local businesses are very accommodating of families with young children; even in the hippest of coffee shops and restaurants, you'll find high-chairs and play areas set aside for the kids. Reykjavík has much to offer visitors at affordable prices – sometimes even for free! Below are our top ten recommendations for active families and curious kids to enjoy while visiting Reykjavík.

Top Ten Family Activities in Reykjavík

Splash & Play in any of the 18 swimming pools in the Reykjavík Capital area.

Make friends with the resident ducks, geese and swans of Tjörnin Lake.

Go back in time to the Viking age at one of the capital area's many museums.

Visit the animals at the Reykjavík Family Park & Zoo.

Try delicious Icelandic food – hot dogs, soft ice cream, skyr and black liquorice.

Climb the majestic Mount Esja.

Ride an Icelandic horse through rocky lava fields.

See whales and puffins on a boat trip from the old harbour.

See bubbling hot springs and roaring waterfalls on a day trip from Reykjavík.

Revel in a Reykjavík sinter – be dazzled by Christmas lights, visit the Hafnarfjördur Christmas Village, skate on Lake Tjörnin or simply start a snowall fight.

Family Friendly Events

Children's Culture Festival (April) – A festival celebrating the music, literature and arts of children of all ages.

First Day of Summer (April) – The First Day of Summer is an official holiday, celebrated with parades and family-friendly fun all over the city.

Festival of the Sea (June) – The area around the old harbour in Reykjavík bustles with life during this festival, which celebrattes the ocean around Iceland and the men and women who spend their days fishing and sailing.

Independence Day (June 17) – Iceland became an independent country in 1944 and every year since, June 17th is celebrated with a festival in evert town in Iceland.

Reykjavík Culture Night (August) – Culture night actually mostly takes place during the day, with plenty of events, concerts, street theatre, and other events to keep the whole family entertained.

Varma – the Warmth of Iceland : Varma is dedicated to maintaining Icelandic tradition in developing. Designing and manufacturing quality garments and accessories from the best Icelandic wool and sheepskin shearling. Varma is available in various tourist shops around Iceland.

Festivals Guide in the Countryside of Iceland

Festivals Guide in the Countryside of Iceland

April – Easter Weekend (Fri-Sat) – Aldrei fór ég suður Music Festival Ísafjörður.

May – Middle of May – The Icelandic Museum Day – open museum – All over.

First weekend of June (Fri-Sun) – The Merry Seaman Festival – Grindavík.

Second weekend of June – The Lamb Chop Festival (Selfoss), the National Day (June 17) – All over.

Third weekend in June – Borgarness – Brákarhátið – Borgames.

Fourth week of June (Tue-Mon) Sunset Festival at Gardaskagi Peninsula – Garður (S).

Fourth weeked of June (Fri-Sun) Lobster Festival at Höfn – H^fn in Hornafjödur.

Fourth weeked of June (Thu-Sun) Lummudagar Fest in Skagafjördur – Skagafjördur.

July

First week of July (Wed-Sun) The Folk Music Festival in Siglufjördur Skagafjördur.

First week of July (Thu-Sun) The Irish Days (The Most Redheade Icelander Competition) – Akranes.

First week of July (Thu-Sat) All Tomorrow’s Parties. Asbrù (NATO Base).

First weekend of July (Fri-Mon) Dyrafjardardagar Viking Festival Pingeyri.

Second week of July (Wed-Sat) Eistnaflug Festival – Neskaupstadur.

Second weekend of July (Wed-Sat) – Home to Budardalor – Budardalur.

Third week of July (Sun-Sun) LungA Festival – Seydisfjördur.

Third week of July (Fri-Sun) Triathlon Festival in the Westfjords – Isafjördur.

Third week of July (Sat) — Fin in Kjos – Kjos.

Third week of July (Sat-Sun) – Skalholt Festival (Pilgrim-walk of 6 days ends) – Skalholt.

Fourth week of July (Wed-Sun) Fire in Hunaphing (The Great Seal Count) – Hvammstangi.

Fourth week of July (Sat-Sun) – Braedslan Festival – Borgarfjördur eystri.

Fourth week of July (Thu-Sun) – Reykholtshatid Festival – Reykholt.

Fourth week of July (Fri-Sun) – Maerudagar in Husavik – Husavik.

Fourth weekend of July (Fri-Sun) – A godri stund Festival – Grundarfjördur.

Fourth weekend of July (Fri-Sun) – French Days in Faskrudsfjördur – Faskrudsfjördur.

Iceland's Mountains. Photo by Olga

August

First weekend of August (Thu-Mon) – Þjóðhátíð í Eyjum Fest – Vestmannaeyjar Islands.

First weekend of August (Fri-Mon) – Verslunarmannahelgin um land allt – All over (Bank Holiday).

Bank Holiday weekend.

First weekend of August (Fri-Mon) – The Herring Festival – Siglufjördur.

Second weekend of August (Wed-Sun) – The Great Fish Day – Dalvik.

Second weekend of August (Wed-Sun) – Act Alone – Sudereyri.

Second weekend of August (Thu-Sun) – Arctic Handcraft and Design Iceland -Eyjafjardarsveit.

Second weekend of August (Sat) – Jökulsa Run (13K, 21K, 33K) – Dettifoss to Asbyrgi.

Second weekend of August (Sat) – Olafsdalshatidin Fest in Gilsfjordur – Gilsfjördur.

Second weekend of August (Sat) – Danskir dagar – Stykkisholmar.

Second weekend of August (Sat) – 1900 Millennium Festival at Eyrarbakki – Eyrarbakki.

Third weekend of August – Turtle Filmfest – Holmavik.

Third weekend of August (Thu-Sat) – Gaeran – Saudarkrokur.

Third weekend of August (Thu-Sun) – Berjadagar Art Festival -Olafsfjördur.

Third weekend of August (Fri- Sun) – Djupavikurdagar Festival – Djupavik.

Third weekend of August (Fri- Sun) – Tödugjöld Rangarpingi ytra – Hella.

Third and fourth week of August (Fri-Sun-10d) – Lagaarfjots Worm Festival – A Héradi.

Fourth weekend of August (Fri-Sun) – Blueberry Festival – Sudavik.

Fifth weekend of August (Thu-Sun) – Sandgerdi Days – Sandgerdi.

Fifth weekend of August (Fri-Sun) – I tuninu heima (Seven Fell Run) – Mosfellsbaer (Capital).

Fifth weekend of August (Fri-Sun) – Akureyraarvaka – Akureyri.

September

First weekend of September (Thu – Sun) – The Night of Lights – Reykjanesbaer.

First weekend of September (Sat) – The Arctic Run (12K, 24K) – Grimsey Island.

Fourth week of September (Sat-Sat) – Cultural Week at Rufathöfn & Ram Lamb Day – Raufahröfn.

October

First weekend of October (Fri-Sun) – Glod Poem Festival – Neskaupstadur.

Second week of October (Thu-Sun) – Women’s Pampering Day – Akureyri.

Third week of October (Mon-Sun) – Northern Wave Filf festival – Grundarfjördur

Reykjavík City Card

Reykjavík loves its city card

Reykjavík is a cosmopolitan city bustling with energy. There are plenty of things to see and do and the the city card is the easiest and most inexpensive way to experience the Icelanders favorite city. The Reykjavík city card offers free entry to a great selection of museums and galleries as well as the thermal pools in Reykjavík. It also provides free unlimited travel by bus within the Reykjavík Capital area. In addition, the card gets you a free ferry trip to Videy island and discounts on various tours, in shops and on services. The card is available for 24, 48 or 72 hours. So you can choose the card that suits your stay!

Get to know the city the easy way and save money.

Included in the Reykjavík City Card is admission to :

Reykjavík City Buses: Unlimited travel by bus within the Reykjavík Capital Area. For schedule, visit the site bus.is or download the Straeto mobile app.

Reykjavík city thermal pools: For information about the pools, visit swimminginiceland,com or check out the page on them.

Museums: For a list of museums included in the City Card, head to citycard.is (Tourist Information Center). You check out the same site for information on where to get the City Card.

Children’s City Card: Admission to the city museums is free for those under 18 years of age. However, there are fees for children on city bus services, swimming pools, the Reykjavík Park & Zoo and on the ferry to Videy Island. To accomodate families, the city offers a special Children’s City Card for a significantly reduced fee. Cards are valid for the same duration 24 hours, 48 hours and 72 hours. For more information check out the official Tourist Information Center.

A day with the Reykjavík City Card

Family Day out

Start the day by watching the reinders of the Reykjavík Family Park and Zoo eat their breakfast. The Reykjavík zoo doesn’t have lions or elephants, but rather common Icelandic barnyard animals and Icelandic animals, such as arctic foxes, seals and reindeer.

If the weather is nice, take the ferry out to Videy Island where you’ll find many attractions.

Head over to the Arbaer Open air Museum. The old buildings, the costumed staff and the toy exhibition are sure to keep the whole family entertained.

After a day of entertainment, there’s nothing better than relaxing in the hot tube while the kids splash in the pool and play in the water slide. If you are in the Arbaer Open Air Museum, hop on bus number 5 and head to Arbaejarlaug swimming pool.

If you have an extra day… Head to the Reykjavík Maritime Museum for a chance to board Odinn, the former coast guard vessel used during the cod wars. The National Museum is another great option, with interactive exhibitions and areas dedicated specially to kids.

Reykjavík City Card helps you see the city. Photo by Olga

The History Bluff

If you want to get to know Icelandic history and culture, start at the beginning. Excavations have revealed ruins from the 10th century, which you can visit at the Settlement Exhibition.

From there, it’s a short walk to the National Museum. This collection of historical buildings will give you a sense of what life was like in the farming community of days gone by.

Finish up a day of immersing yourself in Icelandic history by immersing yourself in a hot tub. They’re usually populated by several generations of Icelanders discussing politics, culture, their cats and whatever else they can think of.

… Check out the Reykjavík Maritime Museum or the Culture House, where historical artifacts and works of art are exhibited together, for a new perspective on what it is to be an Icelander.

The Art Lover

Start the day off by getting to the National Gallery, down by lake Tjornin. The focus is on 19th and 20th century artists and with no permanent exhibition, there’s always something new to see!

The Reykjavík Art Museum is in three separate building. Do you want to see modern art at Hafnarhus, paintings at Kjarvalsstadir, or sculptures at Asmundarsafn?

If you chose Hafnarhus, the Reykjavík Museum of Photography is right next door. The exhibitions at the museum of photography are diverse – artistic, historic, as well as journalistic photography.

Check out the locations of the Reykjavík Art Museum you missed, or head down to the Culture House, where historical artifacts and works of art are exhibited side by side, for a new perspective on what it is to be an Icelander.

Don’t forget that included in the City Card is unlimited travel on the city buses while the card is valid. Taking the bus between attractions is a convenient way to get around

Wining and Dining in Iceland

Wining & Dining in Iceland

It’s always easy to find something great to eat in Reykjavík. Fresh and seasonal Icelandic ingredients are popular and the chefs of Reykjavík are always trying to think of new ways to prepare them, some simple and others more complex. We recommend trying everything from plokkfiskur (a fish and potatoes casserole) to delicate Icelandic langoustine and the finest steaks of lamb, horse or beef.

Have you tried:

New Nordic food, Icelandic style?

The delicious products of Icelandic nature are finally getting the attention and care they deserve and taste better than ever, especially when prepared by the food wizards of Dill restaurant. Iceland’s first Michelin-starred restaurant.

Something adventurous? Reykjavík’s restaurants tend to have at least one dish that’s a bit surprising. If you’ve never tried horse, whale, or puffin, now’s your chance.

Plokkfiskur? 

Decidedly non-glamourous but consistently delicious, this fish and potato stew is usually served with dark and sweet rye bread.

Langoustine? 

If plokkfiskur is not glamorous enough for you, try Icelandic lobster. Delicious in soups, sandwhichs or just served on its own with heaps of garlic butter.

Shark? 

You’ve probably heard of this one; despite its reputation (and the smell), the shark meat is neither rotten nor putrid, but rather fermented.

Icelandic lamb?

Icelandic lamb is in a league of its own, tender and succulent.

The Icelandic hot dog?

It’s a cultural institution so get one with everything – ketchup, mustard, remoulade and two kinds of onion, fresh and fried.

Kjötsupa?

Icelandic meat soup at its most basic is a clear broth with whole pieces of lamb and vegetables, but every Icelander has his own (or his mother’s) recipe.

Icelandic craft beer? 

Stop by Kaldi bar for a taste of Kaldi beer. Microbar focuses on craft beers from microbreweries all over the world, and Bryggjan bar and restaurant has an on-site brewery.

Ice cream?

The classic is soft serve ice cream, served with all the sauces and toppings you can imagine, but gelato-style ice cream is also gaining in popularity.

Fishermen port. Photo by Olga

Eating Out In Reykjavík

The tastes and smells of another country are often what stays with you long after you’ve forgotten everything you’ve learned at the museums. But finding something great to eat in a new place can often be difficult. Here are some helpful tips to remember when dining in Reykjavík, if you want to make every meal count.

Traditional Food

Traditional Icelandic food is usually centred around fish or lamb. There’s a fair share of dishes that owe their existence to a time before refrigeration; smoked, salted, and fermented food. Many of these dishes are an acquired taste, such as the famous fermented shark and pickled ram’s testicles, and are usually only trotted out for special occasions. Others, such as hardfiskur (fish jerky) or hangikjöt (smoked lamb) are delicious all year round.

Then there are the slightly more modern classics, such as plokkfiskur (fish and potato casserole), fish balls (like meatballs, only with fish), and kjötsupa (clear-broth lamb and vegetable soup). These are simple dishes, regularly served in most Icelandic homes, but they taste delicious. For desserts, the most iconic dish is probably Icelandic pankakes (crêpe-like pancakes served plain with sugar or stuffed with jam and cream).

Fine Dining

Since traditional Icelandic cooking is relatively light on technique (it involves a lot of boiling), a popualr way to approach modern Icelandic cuisine is to focus on quality local ingredients but seek inspiration from other parts of the world on how to prepare them. The result is a melting pot of different influences. For instance, one of the most established restaurants in Reykjavík is a Tapas restaurant, but their most popular dish is cured Icelandic lamb in a liquorice sauce.

Icelandic lamb and seafood are some of the best you’ll ever taste so be sure to try them at least once while you’re here. Langoustine, or Icelandic lobster, is another thing most Icelandic restaurants have on their menu and it is some of the most delicate and delicious seafood you’ll ever taste.

Recently, restaurants like Dill and Matur og Drykkur, inspired by the new Nordic cuisine, have been making waves in the Icelandic restaurant scene, experimenting with unconventional Icelandic ingredients and rediscovering forgotten methods of cooking. Dill was even recently honoured with Iceland’s first Michelin star! Don’t be surprised to see unfamiliar ingredients on menus, such as whale, puffin, horse or even reindeer.

Light Meals

For less formal meals, there’s plenty of nice restaurants in Reykjavík that won’t break the bank but still serve delicious food. The city centre has a high concentration of bistors, cafés and gastropubs serving sandwiches, salads, soups and other delights, perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

Even though Iceland is famous for its lack of McDonald’s, we still have fast food chains, such as Subway, Domino’s and Dunkin’s Donuts, as well as a few of our own. Hamborgarabullan restaurants serve great burgers and Serrano sells delicious Ice-Mex food, to name a few. Lemon, a juice and sandwich place and Local, a chain of salad bars, is perfect if you’re looking for a healthier option.

Finally, Iceland has great sushi places in varying price ranges, perfect as this is one of the few places in the world that rivals Japan for access to fresh fish.

Restaurant Etiquette of Reykjavík

• Reservations are recommended, especially for fine dining and for weekends and the summer season.
• In bistros and cafés, reservations aren’t necessary or even possible in some places, but it never hurts to ask, especially for larger groups.
• Tipping is not the custom in Iceland and there is no service fee. If you want to reward exceptional service financially, that’s fine and no one will be offended, but it’s not required.
• Icelandic tap water is not only safe; it tastes the same or even better than bottled water.
• In Iceland, dinner time is usually around seven or eight pm. Upscale restaurant kitchens are usually open from six to ten or eleven pm and a little later on the weekends, although some are open even longer.

Eating Vegetarian in Reykjavík and in Iceland

Eating Vegetarian in Reykjavík

Due to the climate and the resulting difficulties of growing a bounty of vegetables, Icelandic cuisine through the centuries has been mostly animal-protein based. Nowadays, however, there’s a growing number of vegetarians and vegans, especially among the younger generations, and restaurants are responding to the change in diet.

Since the market is still a relatively small one, there are not many restaurants with a completely meat-free restaurants, there are several others that cater to a mixed crowd, with an abundance of vegetarian food but meat options as well. Bistros, casual restaurants and fast food places.

When it comes to fine dining, you probably won’t find any vegetarian/vegan-onoy kitchens but most restaurants in Reykjavík will have vegetarian options on their menu and they’re usually prepared to accommodate special requests, especially when notified in advance.

Mention your dietary preferences when you book the table and you’ll have a lovely meal waiting for you. Most restaurants also have their menus online so check it out if you want to be prepared.

Cafés usually have a range of dairy free options, such as soy or oat milk lattés and if you have a sweet tooth, there are some vegan ice cream stores and others that always have some vegan options.

If you have access to a kitchen, self-catering is an easy and reliable option. Supermarkets in Iceland usually have some range of vegan products, although in the low budget supermarkets, options might be scarce. The vegetable section might also be a little more limited than what you’re used to, due to our northerly location. If you don’t have access to a kitchen, you can find some prepared vegetarian dishes in the supermarkets as well.

Eat vegetarian. Photo by Olga

Coffee in Iceland

Just ten drops for me, thanks

Iceland is known for the Northern Lights, the midnight sun, glaciers and… coffee? Yes, really! The Nordic nations are some of the biggest coffee drinkers in the world and Icelanders are no exception. The Icelanders’ love of the magic beans is evident by the sheer number of cafés in Reykjavík.

The first written documentation of coffee in Iceland is from the 18th century when the tradtion was brought to Iceland by way of Denmakr, our overlords at the time. For some years, coffee drinkers were limited to the elite who had conections to Denmark but in the 19th century most average Icelanders had had their first taste of coffee (although it was still a luxury item). By the 20th century however, coffee was an integral part of the household and every farm in Iceland was roasting and every farm in Iceland was roasting their own coffee beans and grinding them.

Serving strong coffee and lots of it was a point of pride, especially since coffee beans were relatively expensive, categorised as colonial goods and revered appropriately as such. Any offer of coffee was likely to be met with a polite and humble « sure, just ten drops, please. »

In 1958, Café Mokka opened its doors on Skolavördustigur in Reykjavík, when the city was just beginning to blossom into the cosmopolitan city it is today. It was a turning point in Iceland’s coffee culture, as it was the first café in Reykjavík to serve Italian-style espresso drinks. Today, of course, most cafés have a large gleaming espresso-maker, although some coffeee aficionados swear by the more traditional methods ob brewing.

Speaking of Italian-style coffee drinks, the caffé latté is surprisingly controversial in Iceland, in some ways as a direct result of café Mokka. Mokka has, ever since it opened, allowed artists to display their works on the walls and attracyed an accordingly with the experimental, modern art of the time it opened, which was hugely controversial for the newly independent nation. To this day, the caffé latté is a symbol of the rift between the image of the nardworking, drip-brewed coffee-drinking farmer and the cerebral, latté-slipping artist.

Whichever group you identify more with, coffee in Iceland, whether it’s in the morning, afternoon or after dinner, is highly recommended (and don’t be afraid to get a latté if you want one).

A calm street in the heart of the capital city. Photo by Olga. 

Coffee & Something with It

Coffee is good on its own, but coffee and something sweet to go with it is even better. Getting invited to coffee to someone’s home usually means that you get a spread of pastries to go with your cup.

Traditional Icelandic pastries are usually on the simpler side but that doesn’t make them any less delicious! Try kleinur (a cardamom-flavoured twisted donut), pönnukökur (crèpe-like pancakes served either plain with sugar or stuffed with whipped cream and jam) or waffles (that also get the jam/cream treatment). Most cafés also serve slices of Hnallbora (fancy cakes named for a character from Icelandic Literary history famous for serving a multitude of huge cales at coffee time) that go great with a cup of coffee

Going Out in Iceland: Beer, Bars & Booze

Going Out in Iceland: Beer, Bars & Booze

The Reykjavík nightlife is famous, even infamous, depending on your point of view. While Icelanders have always known how to party, the Reykjavík bar scene has done a lot of growing up in the last few years, with several dedicated beer bars opening their doors, as well as ambitious cocktail bars, serving up delicious concoctions.

Bars

Whether you want to have a beer in the afternoon, head out for a drink in the evening, or dance till the morning comes, the liveliest bar scene in Reykjavík is in the city center, on and around Laugavegur and Austurstraeti. Many bars double as cafés and bistros (and even triple as venues for concerts and other events), simply turning up the music as the night progresses.

Closing times differ depending on the atmosphere of each drinking establishment but the rule of thumb is that bars must close at 1:00 on weekdays and no later than 4:30 on the weekends. Some bars close earlier. The most popular drink is beer and there’s plenty of good beer to be had, but Reykjavík is also having a cocktail renaissance, so ask your bartender about the bar’s specialities before ordering.

Beer

Believe it or not, but beer was prohibited in Iceland for most of the 20th century. It was legalised March 1st, 1989, a date which is now the unofficial holiday of Beer Day! Ever since that day, Icelanders have been making up for lost time and beer is now the most popular alcoholic beverage in Iceland. Perhaps mor importantly, Icelanders also started brewing their own (delicious) beer.

For the first few years, easily drinkable lager beers ruled the roost but in the past few years, Icelanders have gotten a taste for a wider range of beers. Have a Kaldi beer at the Kaldi bar downtown or stop by Microbar and taste some of their extensive selection of microbrews. Einstök beer is good and widely available and the small-batch brews of Borg brewery are always interesting. Danish brewery Mikkeller runs a beer bar with several of their most delectable products for sale and Bryggjan brewery is a restaurant/bar/brewery where the beer is made on site!

A desert parking in the capital. Photo by Olga

Booze

Icelandic liquor, which hasn’t really been known for finesse through the years, is also going through a renaissance. Brennivin, the most famous Icelandic liquor, gets a bad rap (it’s also known as Black Death) but in fact, it’s brewed like an aquavit and much like its Scandinavian cousins, can be quite pleasantly sipped with smorrebrod. It’s distilled from potatoes and flavoured with caraway seed.

Apart from the traditional Brennivin, new creations like liquors, crowberries and rhubarb, even birch, are inspiring bartenders all over Reykjavík. You can also try Icelandic gin, vodka, and even wisky. Finally, Icelanders are liquorice lovers and if you share that love, be sure to check out the vodka-based Opal and Topas shots, available at most bars in Reykjavík

Golden Circle in Iceland

The Golden Circle – One-day delight in Iceland

Golden Circle – This is the most popular tourist route and day tour in Iceland departing from Reykjavík and covering a vast area of geological and historical attractions. And for good reason! The three main points of interest are Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and seat of the first parliament; the waterfall Gullfoss and the erupting geyser Strokkur un Haukadalur. So not only do you get to see some of the most amazing natural and historical wonders of Iceland, at a convenient distance from the capital. The Golden Circle is a 300-km looped route.

Þingvellir

Þingvellir (pronounced thing-vetleer) is a historical and geological marvel. Situated right where the tectonic plates separate, the rift between continents is clearly visible in the dramatic cliffs on either side of the valley. This makes for stunning landscapes, with cascading waterfalls, majestic cliffs and fissures,filed with icy blue, clear water.

Þingvellir are of great historical importance as well. The names translates to Parliament Fields as for centuries, it was the meeting place of the Icelandic Parliament, founded in 930. Some of the biggest decisions in Icelandic history were made at Þingvellir. It was here that the Icelandic chieftains decided that Icelanders would convert to Christianity, it was where they decided to give up their independence in 1262 and where they declared independence from Denmark seven centuries later, in 1944.

Gullfoss

Next up is Gullfoss waterfall (Icelandic for the golden waterfall). It’s a magnificent reminder of the awe-inspiring power of nature, with a huge amount of water thundering down into a jagged canyon.

The power of the waterfall was enticing the entrepreneurs in the early 20th century, and plans were made to harness it and convert it to electricity. Fortunately, there were people who spoke up and protested against destroying such an impressive natural wonder, one of them even going so far as to threaten to throw herself i the waterfall. The State of Iceland acquired the waterfall in 1940 and it has been on the state preservation list since 1979.

Waterfalls in Iceland. Photo by Olga

Geysir

Geysir is an erupting hot spring (it’s actually the erupting hot spring, lending its name to geysers around the world) although these days it doesn’t do a lot of erupting. It’s neighbour, Strokkur, however, gladly puts on a show every 8-10 minutes, in an impressive spectacle of a burst of hot water. The area also has several pools of water ranging in temperature from too-hot-to-touch to boil-you-alive-in-seconds; some bubbling, other still and impossibly clear.

After Geysir, it’s time to head back to Reykjavík or continue exploring the south of Iceland. Go swimming in a warm pool surrounded by nature, go snowmobiling on a glacier or have a delicious langoustine (Icelandic lobster) dinner in a tiny fishing village on the shore.

This beautiful area with its lake, natural vegetation and visible tectonic fissures, which are popular amongst divers and snorkelers. This area is also a delight to walk around, soaking in history, geology and nature with every step. Another major stop is the Geysir Geothermal Area, Iceland‘s very own pressure valve with Strokkur letting off steam every few minutes in a 30m high aquatic burst. This hot geothermal area is fascinating with its colours, smells and energy. The third classic stop on the Circle is the mesmerising Gullfoss Waterfall. Seen from a dizzy height, this waterfall is two-tiered and plunges 32m down into the Hvítá River. Its beauty is illuminated by sunshine and rainbows but also in its winter coat of icicles and frozen spray.

There are a number of other attractions in the area to visit that would put a personal touch to your own Golden Circle tour. They are Laugarvatn on the banks of a warm lake and sheltered by a birch-covered mountain, Kerið, a volcanic crater that has hosted floating music concerts, Flúðir, home of the Secret Lagoon and Icelandic button mushroom farming.

Reykjadalur near Hveragerði, is a valley of geothermal hot springs ready for soaking in.

Conscious Tourism

As with everywhere in Iceland, the nature here is very sensitive and is not used to being trampled on by thrill seekers from all over the world, so please take care to stick to marked trails and walking paths, be sure to take your rubbish with you and leave any pieces of Iceland where you found them. International driving rules apply to Iceland as well. Stopping on the road to take pictures is not only forbidden but highly dangerous and can cause accidents.

Exist the city, enter teh adventure with Geysir Car Rental. It is located in the Harpa Concert Hall within Geysirland Tourist Info. Get free CDW insurance cover and Unlimited Milage on all rentals. No one way fees and great prices. Free GPS or extra driver.

Riding in Iceland with Eldhestar : Greatest Variety of Riding Tours just Outside Reykjavík.

A Day from Reykjavík: the South Coast

A Day from Reykjavík: the South Coast

The south coast is one of the most popular places for a sightseeing day tour from Reykjavík. The area has a high concentration of diverse natural phenomena – striking mountains, glaciers, waterfalls – with long stretches of black sand beaches and deserts and verdant farming communities in between.

The road south from Reykjavík, crosses Mt. Hellishedi, where you can stop at the Hellisheldi power plant and geothermal energy exhibition and tour the plant. From there, you travel down into the valley around Hveragerdi, a town built on a geothermal hot spot. There are columns of steam rising from the ground, a clear sign of the geothermal heat underground, and there's even a restaurant which cooks food with the steam from the ground.

Moving on, you'll drive past amazing mountains and valleys along the coastline until you get to the magical Seljalandsfoss waterfall. The waterfall comes down in the mouth of a cave so that you can walk the whole way around it. Close by is the Iceland Erupts exhibition, a memorial to the 2010 eruptions of EyjafjallajÇokull which halted all air transport in Europe for a while.

This is followed by Skogafoss, an even larger, more powerful waterfall, right by the tiny community of Skogar, which has a fascinating local museum and a couple of hotels. This is also where the mountain trail of Fimmörduhals starts off, a popular but long hiking trail leading up to the PorsÇorl preservation area. Be careful to check the conditions and get advice before the hike.

Icelandic waters. Photo by Olga

Further along is the town of Vik, where you can walk along the Reynisfjara black-sand beach with a view over the strange rock formations of the coast (Important: Stay far away from the water, the rip tide is Extremely dangerous and there have been fatal accidents there).

Katla and Eyjafjallajökull volcanoes and Myrdalsjökull glacier watch over the south coast of Iceland and you could easily throw in a guided tour of the glacier of a hike to spice up your journey. If you decide to do that, just be careful and take precautions, ask advice, always let someone know where you're going, keep your phone charged, bring warm clothes and make sure you have good shoes.

Glacier Hiking

You shouldn't leave Iceland without experiencing the wonders of its glaciers. Glacier hiking is the best way to get up close and personal with Iceland's elements. Visiting the glaciers under the guidance of a professional glacier guide is a safe way to explore the rugged ice crevasses, sink holes, jagged ridges, ice walls and amazing ice formations.

The Glacial Lagoon on the South Coast

The otherworldly Jökulsarlon glacial lagoon, surrounded by black sand, is a sight well worth the trip. The ice-cold water is filled with icebergs, that have broken off the vast Vatnajökull glacier, the largest glacier in Europe. The blue and black chunks of ice look great from afar, but even better up close, so consider taking a boat tour of the lagoon.

A Day from Reykjavík: Reykjanes Peninsula

A Day from Reykjavík: Reykjanes Peninsula

The Reykjanes peninsula is the first thing you see in your way from the airport into the city. There’s a lot more to the area than just the airport. The area contains a host of interesting attractions and beautiful nature that’s too often overlooked by travelers.

The peninsula landscape is dramatic, with endless lava fields and mountains in the distance, geothermal areas and cute little villages. Starting out from Reykjavík, you’ll drive through the town of Hafnarfjördur, the home of the Viking Village. After a stop in Hafnarfjördur, we recommend leaving the main road to Keflavik and heading through the lava fields towards Kleifavatn. The lake is very pretty and surrounded by a beautiful landscape, a perfect place for a walk if the weather is nice. Continuing on, this route leads you to Krysuvik, a geothermal hot spot where you’ll find numerous bubbling mud pools and steaming fumaroles, surrounded by multicolored hills, affected by the intense heat. From here, you might head east to Strandakirkja church, which, according to legend, was built by a sailor who stranded just off the coast but was rescued by an angel on the promise he would build a church where he washed ashore.

After this, traveling west along the peninsula and passing through the fishing village of Grindavik, you can stop by the Gunnahver fumarole, where legend has it the murderous ghost Gunna was trapped by a priest using only a ball of yarn. In the same area, you can visit Reykjanesviti lighthouse and walk along the dramatic rocky coastline, with a view over the unique island Eldey. Traveling north from here, you come to the bridge between the continents at Sandvik.

Island stands on the rift between the American and the Eurasian tectonic plate and there are a few places in the country where that rift is visible on the surface.

Next up is Keflavik, a town heavily influenced by its proximity to the US army base which is now vacant. Keflavik was known as the birthplace of Icelandic rock and roll, home to the legendary band Hljomar, the Icelandic Beatles.

Honoring the heritage is the Icelandic Rock’n’roll Museum, which showcases several artifacts from the musical history of Iceland. The highlight of a trip to the Reykjanes peninsula for many people is relaxing in the famous Blue Lagoon spa on your way back to the city.

Icelandic rural landscape. Photo by Olga

The Blue Lagoon

The luxurious Blue Lagoon spa is one of the most recognized landmarks in Iceland. The characteristic turquoise blue waters are the result of a happy accident. While drilling for hot water, way opened for naturally hot water from deep underground, to flow to the surface.

The underground water, naturally rich in minerals, mixed with cold seawater, created a pool of mily blue water of the perfect temperature for bathing. Since the water continuously streams from underneath the ground, the water is completely replenished every 40 hours, keeping the water naturally clean and making chemical cleaners unnecessary

A Day from Reykjavík: Borgarnes & West of Iceland

A Day from Reykjavík: Borgarnes & West of Iceland

If the crowds on the south coast and the Golden Circle are not your thing, a tour of the west coast of Iceland might be just the ticket. The area has its share of natural wonders, with majestic waterfalls and deep lava caves, as well as a rich historical heritage.

About an hour north of Reykjavík is Borgarnes, a charming little town with cosy restaurants, a watery paradise of a swimming pool, and fascinating museums. The Settlement Centre is dedicated to the Viking settlement of the area, telling the story of Egill son of Skallagrimur, the fierce Vikning and clever poet who first settled in the area.

The Borgarnes Museum is just a couple of steps away and is focused on more recent history of the area, with permanent exhibitions on the history of childhood during the 20th century and the bird-life of the area, as well as temporary exhibitions.

The swimming pool is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, complete with an Olympic-sized outdoor swimming pool, an indoor pool, three hot tubs, a wading pool, a steam bath, three waterslides of varying size and a gym.

Close by Borgarnes is Deildartunghver, the most powerful hot spring in Europe. You can see boiling hot water gush from the ground, bubbling powerfully and steaming. A little further along are Hraunfossar, the Lava waterfalls. This remarkable waterfall flos out from underneath a sheet of solid lava. A short walk away is another waterfall, the thundering Barnafoss.

Icelandic volcanic stones. Photo by Olga

Viodgelmir, Iceland’s biggest lava cave by volume, is a lava tube formed during a volcanic eruption, when the magma started to cool on the surface, but there was still a hot “river” of magma flowing beneath it. Then the magma flow stopped, leaving a hollow cave beneath the cool crust on the surface. A tour of the cave can be booked in advance. Nearby Surtshellir, similar in nature, is Iceland’s longest lava cave.

Finally, if you’re traveling with a specially outfitted vehicle and guide, you can kick the adrenaline into gear and drive onto Langjökull glacier, where summer never comes. If you’re particularly adventurous, you can even travel into the Glacier, in a recently opened man-made glacier cave, equipped with a chapel, bar and movie theatre.

If you want to take the scenic route back to Reykjavík, skip the tunnel under Hvalfjördur bay and drive around the fjord. On the way you can see the old whaling station or visit a museum dedicated to the American army.s occupation of Iceland during World War II. You can also visit a working farm or hike to the tallest waterfall in Iceland, Glymur

Activités from Reykjavík

Activités from Reykjavík

Reykjavík and the surrounding area offer plenty of activities as well as standard day tours. Many of these activities can be added onto the tours, making for a fuller day with more than just enjoying the breath-taking nature, while other require a longer time or more dedication. Then there are even a few things that you can do on a whim, and don’t even have to take too much time! » Whatever it is, you can trust that there’ll be plenty of things to do!

Snorkelling and Diving in Silfra

Snorkelling – it’s not just just for the tropics anymore! Good news for everyone, from experienced divers to novice adventure-seekers; the fissure Silfra is not only a world-class diving location but ideal for snorkelling tours as well. The crystal-clear water offers over 100 metres of visibility. Don’t miss out on floating along the fissure and seeing first-hand the amazing world underneath ours. Silfra is also a world-renowned diving site, for those who want to experience it full-force and have the necessary permits (a drysuit permit is needed to dive in Silfra, but everyone can snorkel). Several tour operators offer day tours in this location all year.

Horseback Riding

Not only is the Icelandic horse a horse of a different colour, it’s a horse of an entirely different genetic makeup. Having been bred in almost perfect isolation for over 1000 years, the Icelandic horse is unique in many respects. They are notably well-tempered and relatively small (you shouldn’t fall off but even if you do, you won’t fall far), though they are probably most famous for their unusual fifth gait : the tölt. Tölt is a way of walking unique to the Icelandic horse, which keeps the rider stable while manoeuvring easily over Iceland’s uneven landscape.

ATVs in All Terrains!

ATVs, four wheelers, quad bikes… whatever you call them, they’re always a fund ride. Just a stone’s throw outside Reykjavík, you can take your road-rage to the lava fields where tense powerful machines eat up the terrain. Quad bikes open another world normally hidden from the average traveller; driving along a black sand beach or on a seldom travelled mountain road is an unforgettable experience.

Geysers approaching. Photo by Olga

Caving

Underneath the mountains and laval fields is an incredible subterranean realm that just begs to be explored. Iceland has 500 known lava caves, but that’s a mere 5% of the estimated total of 10.000. Navigating these caves is a great way to experience first-hand how the land formed from the molten lava, cooling and freezing time forever. It’s a great adventure and everyone should try it.

Whales, Puffins and Sea Angling

The ocean surrounding Iceland is a fantastic place to go whale watching. The most frequently seen cetaceans are minke and humback whales and seeing these giants of the ocean in the wild is an unforgettable experience. You can also take a dedicated puffin watching tour, which takes you out to the puffin colonies on the islands outside Reykjavík in the season, from mid-May to mid-August. Finally, if you’d rather taste the sea’s creatures than look at them, sea angling boat tours from the Old Harbour let you catch your own fish and have it cooked for you right there on the boat!

Iceland’s Volcanoes

Iceland is one of the most volcanically active places on earth with more than 30 active volcanoes. The most famous one is probably Mt. Eyjafjallajökull, which temporarily halted Europe’s air trafic in 2010. Other notable volcanoes include Hekla, widely considered to be the entrance to Hell in the middle ages, and Bardarbunga, which erupted in 2014. Several Super Jeep excursions, scenic flight tours and helicopter tours will take travellers out to these wonders of nature to enjoy their raw power and grotesque beauty. If seeing the volcanoes isn’t enough for you, there is always Prihnukagigur, the only place on earth where you can go inside an empty volcano.

Geothermal Powerplants

The columns of steam rising from the geothermal plants at Nesjavellir and Hellisheidi are a magnificent sight. You can take a tour of the Geothermal Energy Exhibition of Hellisheidi, a state-of-the-art geothermal power plant. The plant shows how geothermal energy is harnessed in a sustainable manner in Iceland, s showcase for the rest of the world. The area is also an excellent hiking and outdoor destination with trails which vary in length and difficulty, and trail maps in place on-site.

Iceland’s Glaciers

Glaciers cover about 11% of Iceland’s surface. Iceland is home to the largest ice cap in Europe, Vatnajökull, in addition to other formidable ones such as Longjökull, Myrdalsjökull and Snaefellsjökull. You can barely go anywhere in Iceland without spotting anywhere in Iceland without spotting one of these ivory behemoths in the distance, but if you want to get up close and personal, take a guided glacier hiker tour, go ice climbing or snowmobiling or even go on a unique tour Into the Glacier, into a man-made tunnel at the heart of the glacier. Don’t try to go on a glacier without a certified guide.

Food & Culture Tours

Iceland’s cuisine is unique and fascinating. Smoked, cured, dried, salted – meat, fish or bread, there are many unusual and delicious combinations to choose from. Take a guided food tour which samples the different flavours of the local cuisine in chosen locations. Smoked lamb is delicious and dried fish chips will surprise you, but the fermented shark and accompanying shot of Brennevin schnapps are an acquired taste. You can also visit one of Iceland’s many microbreweries and have a tasting session.

City Tours

Reykjavík is a fantastic little city, different from other capitals of Europe. Guided tours focus on major sights, culture and history, the city’s less-knows secrets or even good places to party, depending on each tour. There are tours on foot, bike or Segway, to name just a few. Keep your eyes peeled for the tour that appeals to you.

Jeep Tours

Iceland’s rugged and untamed nature can be hard to navigate in a regular vehicle. This is why you will see so many modified Super Jeeps around, capable of traversing unbridged rivers, drive up on mountains and generally get around on rocky mountain roads. It’s easy to take such a tour up onto volcanoes and glaciers, into the untouched wilderness of the highlands, or to caves, waterfalls and other inaccessible natural phenomena.

Scenic Flight Tours

There’s nothing like taking scenic flights by plane or helicopter over the grand vistas of Icelandic nature. You get to experience natural wonders that aren’t easily accessible by land, get the bird’s-eye view of mountains, glaciers and waterfalls, all in just a fraction of the time it would take you to make the trip by car. Whether you take a scenic flight or a helicopter tour, it’s going to give you a unique sense of the scale and power of this wild and untamed land.

Snowmobilling

For those who aren’t content to just look at this island’s magnificent nature, one of the most exciting ways you can experience it first-hand is snowmobiling on a glacier. These adventure excursions will take you on an adrenaline-filled ride while allowing you to experience the glacier landscapes in a unique and wonderful way