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CONTENTS AND INDEX OF ADVERTISERS
Page
Alphabet 12
Accommodation 33
Art gallery, Ceramic Workshop 36, 46
Birdlife 109, 111
Blue Lagoon 51
Car rental firms 44, 66
Cheese store 90
Conversions, Clothing sizes 30, 69
Duvet store 4
Distance in km – Drivng in Iceland 67
Embassies of Iceland 19
Flora of Iceland 105, 107
Furrier 28
Gift – souvenirs and woollens 26, 34, 42, 46, 60, 68
Hotels and guesthouses 11, 22, 25, 32, 39, 61
Iceland 3, 4, 43, 45, 47, 49
Iceland – Southwest – South part 51, 113
Iceland – West – West Fjords 115, 117
Iceland – North part – East part 119, 121
Iceland – Westman Islands 123
Icelandic names 63
Icelandic food 79, 81, 85, 87, 89, 91, 93
Icelandic horse and sheep 54, 55
Jewelry and watch maker 20, 24, 38, 56, 71
Map of Iceland 6, 7
Map of Reykjavík center 125
Map of Reykjavík 126, 127
Museums in Reykjavík 52, 53
National costumes 57
Northern Lights 37
Restaurants 70 - 128
Transportation Taxi tours 10, 14
Tourist Information and Booking Office 16
Swimming pools - Health Spa 48, 50, 64, 65
Travel facts 27, 29, 31, 33
Whale watching 58, 59
Websites in Iceland 18
Weather and volcano in Iceland 21, 23
Published annually by Útgáfa og hönnun, Úthlíð 8, 105 Reykjavík, Iceland, Tel. +354-553 5088/899 0778
e-mail: icelandinfo@internet.is, www.internet.is/icelandinfo Publisher/Editor: Erlendur Guðmundsson Advertising:
Ingunn Stefánsdóttir Production manager: Ragnheiður Ingunn Ágústsdóttir Cover Photo: Northern lights,
Kleifarvatn lake South West Iceland by Kristjan U. Kristjansson Other Photos: Gréta Gudjónsdóttir, Friðrik Jóelsson,
Jóhann Águst Hansen Printing: Oddi hf. – 2012 – 28th year of publication

NOTES
1

2
A message from the publisher
of Iceland Information Guide
Dear Visitor
I would like to welcome you to Iceland,
hoping that this publication will give you
some idea about Iceland, its geography,
history, culture and its people.
Iceland Information Guide is published annually by “Útgáfa og
Hönnun” an independent publishing company, and this pocket
guide is in the 28th year of publication, and it is aimed to help you
make your stay in our country as pleasant, effective and rewarding
as possible. In this pocket guide you will find addresses of Icelandic
Embassies where you can obtain further information concerning Iceland.
In our pocket guide we print various travel information various travel
facts, hints and things to see and do in Iceland.
We take pride in recommending our selected advertisers, such as hotels
and shops that sell various Tax-free items.
It is my pleasure to recommend the variety of restaurants that advertise in
our pocket guide as I have dined in the fast food restaurants and the ethnic
restaurants: Icelandic, Indian, Mexican, Spanish, Italian, Asian etc. In reality
you can expect to find good food and services in all these restaurants.
We publish some pages about Icelandic food, the flora of Iceland and the
birdlife in our country.
Dear reader, Iceland is an experience not to be missed, the opportunity to
see things you have never dreamed of, to see a land of striking contrasts
where the elements of ice and fire are always present.
I wish you a pleasant stay in Iceland and hope it will leave you with
memories to treasure for a livetime.
Erlendur Guðmundsson
Publisher

The repu blic of Iceland
Just as Iceland was the last country in Europe to be physically
born, it was also the last to be settled by man, by Vikings in
the ninth century at the start of a great era of
navigation and exploration which would
take the Icelanders as far as the shores
of the New World.
The settlers of Iceland brought with
them the ancient Nordic language
which has been preserved remarkably
intact – and still very much alive – right
up to the present day.
Iceland, a nation-state num ber ing
over three hundred thousand people,
has an import ance that be ars little
relation to its size. This is most ly due to its
cultural herita ge, especi ally the medi eval Sa gas
and Eddas.
Iceland’s greatest literary achievement describe the events
leading up to and during the settlement period written down
three hundred years later, to make the Icelanders the only people
in Europe to have detailed historical records of their origin as a
nation and its geograp hical location as a stepp ing sto ne from
Europe to the New World.
Iceland ers pride themselv es on the old est ex ist ing parli ament
in the world, the Alt hing, founded in 930 A.D., some sixty ye ars
af t er the country was first settled. Since 1944 Iceland has been
a repu blic with a pres i dent el ect ed for four ye ars by plebiscite, a
63-mem ber parli ament which is el ect ed for four ye ars from eight
el ect oral districts, and a cabinet, led by the Prime Mini st er, which
wi elds the ex ecuti ve power. The standard of living is comparable
to that of the other Nordic countries, with extensive social
security, health services and free education at all levels.
3

ON MAP NO 1

THE COUNTRY – GEOGRAPHY
Iceland is one of the largest is lands in the North Atl ant ic, lies between
latitu de 63°24’N and 66°33’N and between longitu de 13°30’W and
24°32’W. Iceland has a total area of 103.000 sq km, or 39.756 sq. miles.
From north to south the greatest distance is about 300 km or 185 miles,
from west to east about 500 km or 305 miles. The coast line is 6000 km
or 3700 miles and the shortest distance to other countries are 286 km
or 180 miles to Green land, 795 km or 495 miles to Scotland and 950 km
or 590 miles to Norway.
The Arct ic Circle touches the is land of Gríms ey off the north coast of
Iceland.
Iceland stradd les a submar ine ridge conn ect ing Scotland with
Green land and has one of the Earth’s major geolog ical faults – the mid-
Atl ant ic rift – runn ing through it.
Iceland is one of the most act i ve volcan ic countries in the world, and
ne ar ly all types of volcanoes formed on earth can be found in Iceland.
Geolog ically Iceland is a very young country still in the progress of its
formation. The app e ar ance of the is land of Surts ey, cr eated by
submar ine er uption off the south coast 1963, is one example.
Ten ye ars la t er, in 1973, the is land of Heima ey in the West man
Is lands had a volcan ic er uption. The entire population of some 5200
were moved to the main land in a matt er of ho urs luckily wit hout any
accidents occ uring. Eart hqu akes are frequent in Iceland, but they are
rar ely harm ful.
5

1 BLUE LAGOON
2 ÁLAFOSS SHOP
3
HOTEL KEFLAVÍK
HOTEL EDDA
HILTON REYKJAVÍK NORDICA
3
1
2

16 rental locations
Reservation Tel.(354) 461 6000
Book on line: www.holdur.is
50 km

ON MAP NO 14
wE‘ll taKE
yOu thErE!
all thE mOst EXciting
PlacEs in icEland
EXPEriEncE
a grEat day
with us!
discover all the magical places not
to be missed when in iceland:
Beautiful nature, multicolored
mountains, fertile farmlands,
stunning views, plummeting
waterfalls, natural wonders and
geological phenomena.
Book now at your reception
Book now by calling 580 5450
Book now on www.re.is
Travel Agency
Authorised by
Icelandic Tourist Board
O R
Free wiFi hotspot
on board our coaches.
BSÍ Bus Terminal • 101 Reykjavík • 580 5400 • main@re.is • www.re.is
EXPO · www.expo.is

MINISTER FOR THE ENVIRONMENT
Iceland is a rough gem, a world in the making.
Probably nowhere else is it possible to see nature´s
forces so actively at work. This fact hardly needs
advertising now, as the volcanic eruption at
Eyjafjallajökull has made the news worldwide for
hurling up a massive ash cloud formed by the mix of
hot lava and glacial ice.
Iceland´s many active volcanoes can cause trouble,
but they are well monitored by scientists and civil
protection authorities respond quickly to events to
ensure safety. The Eyjafjallajökull eruption showed
that the system works well, as people were quickly
evacuated from areas of potential danger. Tourists
can feel safe in Iceland, enjoying the awesome
spectacles of nature´s power without being put in harm´s way.
Iceland is one of the most active volcanic spots on the planet, but even in between
eruptions there is no shortage of great shows on play, courtesy of Mother Earth.
Visit Þingvellir, a World Heritage Site, where the land is ripped apart by tectonic
forces, evidenced by a swarm of canyons. Visit the National Park at Snæfellsnes
with its magnificent coastline, pounded by Atlantic waves and overlooked by
the perfect snow-capped cone of Snæfellsjökull. Stop by Dettifoss in the North,
Europe´s most powerful waterfall, or nearby Lake Mývatn with its rich bird life and
warm natural baths. Go see colourful rhyolite mountains and vast lava plains in the
desolate centre – or some of the world´s biggest bird cliffs in the Westfjords or the
Westman Islands, vertical megacities of the avian world.
Or come visit the Vatnajökull National Park, Europe´s biggest and one of the
newest. Covering over a tenth of Iceland, it is centered around the island´s biggest
ice cap, which sits on top of its most active volcanic spot. Here is a microcosm
of all the forces building and sculpting the Earth: Fire and ice, raging glacial rivers
and steaming geothermal fields. Here is the longest row of volcanic craters on the
planet and thriving remnants of Iceland´s once extensive birch forests.
We humans can look small in such a theatre of natural forces, but Iceland´s
magnificent nature requires respect and good caretaking by authorities and
visitors. The fragile vegetation of the highlands is easily damaged. Off-road
driving is strictly forbidden and hikers should stay on footpaths as much as
possible. Centuries of soil erosion are being countered by revegetation and
afforestation. Nature conservation efforts are being strengthened, in part because
a growth in tourism. It is the duty of authorities to protect the natural environment
so we can enjoy it for generations to come – this we can only do in cooperation
with visitors. Please enjoy our wealth of natural wonders and please help us
conserving and improving our environment. Have a great stay in Iceland!
Svandís Svavarsdóttir,
Minister for the Environment.
9

ON MAP NO B
ORGANIC LUXURY
Astonishing Spa with warm indoor pool, sauna,
steam bath and hot tub. Using exclusively
Sóley Oganics products, naturally pure
skin care products from Iceland.
INSPIRED
BY ICELANDIC NATURE
SIGNATURE TREATMENTS
SÓLEY complete body scrub.
Massage 50 min. and 80 min.
SÓLEY Luxury Facial 2 hrs.
....and more
Mon. - Fri. 07:00 - 21:00*
Sat. 08:00 - 20:00*
Sun.12:00 - 18:00*
*Last entry 30 minutes before the closing time.
Our spa is located near the city center.
www.soleynaturaspa.is
Hotel Reykjavik Natura
tel. +354 444 4085 to book.

Iceland’s Premier Hotel Chain
Your Gateway to Iceland
Discover Iceland via 8 luxury hotels
at convenient locations around
the country.
For information
and bookings:
www.icelandairhotels.com
or by telephone:
(+354) 444 4000.
REYKJAVÍK NATURA REYKJAVÍK MARINA in KEFLAVÍK FLÚÐIR KLAUSTUR HÉRAÐ AKUREYRI HAMAR
ENNEMM / SÍA / NM50586

ÁáÐðÉéÍ
THE ICELANDIC ALPHABET
Aa Áá Bb Dd Ðð Ee Éé Ff Gg Hh Ii Íí Jj Kk
Ll Mm Nn Oo Óó Pp Rr Ss Tt Uu Úú Vv
Xx Yy Ýý Þþ Ææ Öö
The icelandic alphabet has several special characters not
found in English:
ð - This letter is pronounced like th in the English word father.
It is called "eð".
þ - No, this is not a p! This letter is pronounced like th in the
English word think and is called "þorn".
æ - is pronounced like the i in life.
ö - sounds similar to i in bird and shirt.
á - é - í - ó - ú - ý - The accent over the vowels does not
mean they are stressed. The letters a and á represent different
sounds, as do e and é, etc.: á sounds like ow in the English
word how, é is pronounced like ye in yes, ó like the o in no, ú
like ou in you, í and ý are pronounced alike and sound like ee
in tree, while i and y both sounds like i in this. The letters au
together sound like the vowel in the French feuille.
Try to pronounce some common Icelandic words; bók (book),
þú (you), móðir (mother), bátur (boat), ís (ice), tré (tree), nýr
(new), brauð (bread), öl (ale), sæti (seat), fiskur (fish), dyr (door).
ýÞþÆæÖö

NORSE MYTHOLOGY
The Norse people lived from about A.D. 200 to 700 in Scandinavia.
After A.D. 700, the Norse migrated in search of new lands, settling in
parts of the British Isles, Iceland, Greenland and East into Russia. From
this period on, the Norse are known as Vikings. The mythology of this
region is grim, shadowed by long, sunless winters. But the darkness is
laced with gleams of grandeur and sparks of humor. The myths depict a
universe in which gods and giants battle among themselves in a cosmic
conflict fated to end in the destruction of the world.
The Vikings idea of heaven was Valhalla, Warriors only. You had to die
in battle ,to be escorted by beautiful female Valkyries to Valhalla. There
you could clash in battle all day long, your cleft limbs and cleavagings
miraculosly restored at the close of play. Then you spent all night
carousing, feasting, getting roaring drunk and discussing the day’s fun.
A major source of information about Norse mythology is a book called
the Poetic Edda, sometimes known as the Elder Edda. It consists of
mythological and heroic poems, including Voluspa, an overview of Norse
mythology from the creation to the final destructive battle of the world, called
Ragnarok. The unknown author who compiled the Poetic Edda in Iceland
around 1270 drew on materials dating from between 800 and 1100.
Around 1222, an Icelandic poet and chieftain named Snorri Sturluson wrote
the Prose Edda, or Younger Edda, which interprets traditional Icelandic
poetry for the audiences of Snorri’s time. Icelandic people maintained a
strong interest in their heritage even after becoming Christian.
Norse mythology inspired the stirring poems and sagas that were written
down during the late Middle Ages, and it has inspired more recent artists
as well. German composer Richard Wagner used the legend of Sigurd
as the basis for his cycle of four operas, known collectively as Der Ring
des Nibelungen (The Ring of the Nibelung).
Some modern writers of fantasy have drawn on Norse stories and
creations such as elves and dwarfs in their work. The best known of
these is J.R.R. Tolkien, whose Lord of the Rings features many themes
from Norse mythology. 13

VIKING-AGE
The word Viking is a collective designation of Nordic peoples,
Danes, Swedes, Norwegians and Icelanders, who ranged
abroad during a period of dynamic Scandinavian expansion
in the Middle Ages, from about AD 800 to 1100. Called the
Viking Age, the period has long been popularly associated
with unbridled piracy, when freebooters came swarming out
of the northlands in their predatory long ships to burn and
pillage their way across civilized Europe. This, however, is
now recognized as a gross simplification. Modern scholarship
emphasizes the achievements of the Viking Age in terms
of Scandinavian art and craftsmanship, marine technology,
exploration, and the development of commerce, the Vikings as
traders, not raiders.
In 2001 archaeological remains were excavated in Aðalstræti,
which turned out to be the oldest relics of human habitation in
Reykjavík, from before AD 871 ± 2. The finds included a hall or
longhouse, which is now preserved in its original location as the
focal point of the exhibition about life in Viking-Age Reykjavík.
The exhibition aims to provide insight into the enviroment of the
Reykjavík farm at the time of the first settlers. Exhibits include
artefacts from archaeological excavations in central Reykjavík.
The construction of Viking-Age buildings is explained using
multimedia technology. Computer technology is used to give
an impression of what life was like in the hall.
15

ON MAP NO 26
WE
MEMORIES
CREATE
NO
BOOKING
CHARGE
SEE WHAT ICELAND HAS TO OFFER
- ALL KINDS OF TOURS -
LOW CAR RENTAL PRICES
- ALWAYS GOOD OFFERS -
Trip
Booking Office & Tourist Information
Laugavegur 54, Reykjavík
Tel. +354 433 8747
Mobile +354 861 5229
trip@trip.is
www.trip.is

he Coat of Arms of the Republic of Iceland
An old story embodied in The Seal of Iceland
This story is embodied in The Seal of Iceland, where the Dragon represents
the Eastern part, the Bird the Northern part, the Bull represents the Western
part and the Rock Giant the Southern part.
The four Guardians of Iceland, are described in an old tale telling of a magician
who was sent by King Harold Gormsson of Denmark to investigate the country
prior to invasion.
The magician swam to Iceland in the form of a whale, and when he reached the
country he saw that all hills and mountains were full of spirits, large and small.
He came to Vopnafjörður (Fjord of Weapons) on the East coast and
a huge dragon approached him, accompanied by reptiles, worms
and lizards.
He then swam north to Eyjafjörður (Fjord of Isles) and was
approached there by a bird so huge, that the wings touched the
mountains on each side of the valley. The bird was accompanied
by numerous other birds of all sizes, large and small.
He went west and south and came to Breiðafjörður (Wide Fjord),
where he was approached by a huge bull which waded into the
sea and made loud noises, the bull was accompanied by by a
large number of spirits.
He went from there and south of Reykjanes (Smoke Peninsula) and
wanted to take land at Víkarsskeið (The Sands of Vikar), but was
approached by a huge rock giant whose head was higher than the
mountains and carried a large iron staff, and he was accompanied
by a host of other giants. Then the magician went east along the south coast,
where he could find no landing places. Thus the intentions of the King of the
Danes came to naught due to the efforts of the Guardian Spirits of Iceland.
17

18
USEFUL WEBSITES IN ICELAND
Ministry for Foreign Affairs www.mfa.is
MFA Overseas Business Service www.vur.is
Government Offices of Iceland www.government.is
Parliament of Iceland www.althingi.is
Statistics Iceland www.statice.is
Directorate of Customs www.tollur.is
Directorate of Immigration www.utl.is
Supreme Court www.haestirettur.is
A Gateway to Iceland www.iceland.is
Permanent Mission of Iceland to the United Nations www.iceland.org/un/nyc
Permanent Mission of Iceland to the International Organizations
in Geneva
www.iceland.org/efta
Icelandic Delegation to NATO www.iceland.org/nato
Central Bank of Iceland www.sedlabanki.is
Trade Council of Iceland www.icetrade.is
Invest in Iceland Agency www.invest.is
Iceland Chamber of Commerce www.chamber.is
Iceland Stock Exchange www.vi.is
Federation of Icelandic Industries www.si.is
Information Centre of the Ministry of Fisheries www.fisheries.is
National Energy Authority www.os.is
Icelandic Federation of Labour www.asi.is
Confederation of Icelandic Employers www.sa.is
CultureNet Iceland www.menning.is
Icelandic Literature www.bokmenntir.is
SagaNet www.sagnanet.is
Reykjavik Arts Festival www.artfest.is
National Museum of Iceland www.natmus.is
Icelandic National Gallery www.listasafn.is
Reykjavik Art Museum www.reykjavik.is/listasafn
National and University Library of Iceland www.bok.hi.is
Iceland Symphony Orchestra www.sinfonia.is
Icelandic Film Centre www.icelandicfilmcentre.is
University of Iceland www.hi.is
Iceland Academy of the Arts www.lhi.is
Marine Research Institute www.hafro.is
Icelandic Research Council www.rannis.is
Icelandic Fisheries Laboratories www.rfisk.is
Icelandic Tourist Board www.icetourist.is
Iceland Naturally www.icelandnaturally.com

ICELANDIC EMBASSIES IN EUROPE,
NORTH AMERICA AND ASIA
AUSTRIA
Botschaft von Island
Naglergasse 2/3/8
AT-1010 Wien
Austria
Tel: (1) 533 2771
Fax: (1) 533 2774
emb.vienna@mfa.is
BELGIUM
Ambassade d’Islande
Rond Point R. Schuman 11
BE-1040 Bruxelles
Tel: 238 5000
Fax: 230 6938
emb.brussel@mfa.is
DENMARK
Islands Ambassade
Strandgade 89
1401 København
Tel: 3318 1050
Fax: 3318 1059
icemb.coph@utn.stjr.is
FAROE ISLANDS
Consulate General of Iceland
Gongin 5, Torshavn
Tel: (298 ) 308 100
Fax: (298) 308 109
icecon.torshavn@ utn.stjr.is
FINLAND
Islands Ambassad
Pohjoisesplanadi 27C
Fin-00100 Helsinki
Tel: (9) 612 2460
Fax: (9) 6122 4620
www.islanti.fi
Icemb.helskinki@utn.stjr.is
FRANCE
Ambassade d’Islande
52 ave. Victor Hugo
FR-75116 Paris
Tel. (1) 4417 3285
Fax (1) 4067 9996
icemb.paris@utn.stjr.is
GERMANY
Isländische Botschaft
Rauchstrasse 1
DE-10787 Berlin
Tel: (30) 5050 4000
Fax: (30) 5050 4300
www.botschaft-island.de
infoberlin@mfa.is
NORWAY
Islands Ambassade
Stortingsgata 30
NO-0244 Oslo 1
Norge
Tel: 2323 7530
Fax: 2283 0704
emb.oslo@mfa.is
RUSSIAN
FEDERATION
Skatertny pereulok 34 Bld 4
115127 Moscow
RU-121069 Moskva
Tel: 956 7604
Fax: 956 7612
icemb.moscow@utn.stjr.is
www.islandia.ru
SWEDEN
Islands Ambassad
Kommendörsgatan 35
SE-114 58 Stockholm
Sverige
Tel: (8) 442 8300
Fax: (8) 660 7423
icemb.stock@utn.stjr.is
www.iceland.is/se
SWITZERLAND
Permanet Mission of Iceland
Ave Blanc 49 6th floor
cp 86, CH 1211 Geneva
Tel: 22 716 1700
Fax: 22 716 1707
UNITED KINGDOM
Embassy of Iceland
2AHans Street,
London SW1X OJE
United Kingdom
Tel: (20) 7259 3999
Fax: (20) 7245 9649
emb.london@mfa.is
www.iceland.is/uk
UNITED STATES
Embassy of Iceland
House of Sweden
2900 k street NW #509
Washington D.C.
20007-1704
Tel: (202) 265 6653
Fax: (202) 265 6656
icemb.wash@utn.stjr.is
www.iceland.is/us
Consulate General
of Iceland
800 Third Ave 36th. fl.
New York, N.Y. 10022
U.S.A.
Tel: 646 282 9360
Fax: 646 282 9369
icecon.ny@mfa.is
CANADA
Embassy of Iceland
360 Albert Street
Suite 710
Ottawa, Ontario
ON K1R 7x7
Tel: (613) 482 1944
Fax: (613) 482 1945
icemb.ottawa@utn.stjr.is
Consulate General
of Iceland
One Wellington Crescent
Suite 100
Winnipeg
Manitoba R3M 3Z2
Tel: (204) 284 1535
icecon.winnepeg@utn.stjr.is
CHINA
Embassy of Iceland
Landmark Tower 1, #802
8 North Dongsanhuan Road
Bei Lu 100004
Tel.: (10) 6590 7795
Fax: (10) 6590 7801
icemb.beijing@utn.stjr.is
INDIA
Embassy of Iceland
10 Munirka Marg. Vasant Vihar
New Delhi 110057
Tel.: 91 11435 30300
Fax: 91 11424 03001
emb.newdehli@mfa.is
JAPAN
Embassy of Iceland
4-18-26 Takanawa,
Minato-ku
JP-108 0074 Tokyo
Tel: (3) 3447 1944
Fax: (3) 3447 1945
icemb.tokyo@utn.stjr.is
EMBASSIES
19

ON CENTER MAP NO 7

THE WEATHER IN ICELAND
Iceland enjoys a much milder climate than its name
and location adjacent to the Arctic circle would imply.
A branch of the Gulf Stream flows along the southern
and the western coast greatly moderating the climate.
In coastal areas the monthly average temperatures
range from approximately -5°C to 15°C, with
temperatures varying around 0°C ± 5°C in wintertime
and 10°C ± 5°C in summertime. The winter temperatures are approximately
15°C warmer than in other areas located at the same latitude (63-67°N),
and the summertime average temperatures are approximately 5°C lower.
Due to the Gulf Stream, mild Atlantic air is brought in contact with colder
Arctic air resulting in a climate that is marked by frequent changes in weather
and storminess. Furthermore this leads to more rainfall in the southern and
western part than in the northern part of the island.
The summer tourist season is from late May to early September. During the
first half of this period the sun stays above the horizon for almost 24 hours
and the interplay of light and shadows on mountains, lava fields and glaciers
yield an ever changing landscape. However, even during the middle of
summer the sky is frequently cloudy or overcast and the sunshine does not
warm the air much. Hence, during daytime, the air is usually cool (“refreshing”
is the local euphemism) and cold during nighttime. Also, by the coast
the inhabited area, summertime warming is often capped by sea-breeze,
resulting in temperatures around 12°C.
The winter season is the abode of long nights, and severe winter storms.
However, the silence of the frozen expanse and the dance of the Aurora
Borealis on a clear night sky draws an increasing number of tourists.
During summertime tourists should bring a windbreaker, rainwear, a thick
pullover (wool or fleece) and sturdy walking shoes. Travelers who are
camping or heading into the interior will need warm underwear and socks,
rubber boots and a warm sleeping bag.
During wintertime tourist should bring warm clothing, warm coat, mittens etc.
Iceland has many swimming pools, usually with geothermally heated water.
Hence, in either season a visitor should bring a swim suit.
On the web-site of the Icelandic Meteorlogical Office (www.vedur.is)
information about weatherforecast, cloud forecast, climate, seismic acitivity,
hydrology and avalanche can be found among many other things. Information
about temperature (= hiti in icelandic) distribution over Iceland can be found
on: http://vedur.is/vedur/vedurfar/kort/manadarmedalhiti/
And information about precipitation (= úrkoma in icelandic) distribution is
found at: http://vedur.is/vedur/vedurfar/kort/medalurkoma_arsins/.
Have a nice stay in Iceland,
with regards from
the Icelandic Meteorological Office
21

LOCATED NO 3 ON MAP PAGE 6
Hotel Keflavik is a first rate four star
hotel, located in the center of Keflavík
town only five minutes drive from
Keflavík airport. The hotel offers free
transport to or from the airport
Hotel Keflavik
Vatnsnesvegur 12, 230 Reykjanesbær
Tel.: 00 354 420-7000 • Fax: 00 354 420-7002
www.hotelkeflavik.is

Jóhann Ágúst Hansen
THE ERUPTIONS AT THE EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL
VOLCANIC SYSTEM IN 2010 AND IN GRÍMSVÖTN 2011
Volcanic eruptions occur in Iceland every 3-4 years, with over 50% occurring
within glaciers. The eruption in Grímsvötn in Vatnajökull glacier 21-28 May
2011 (see location on map page 7) produced 20 times more ash than the
Eyjafjallajökull eruption in 2010 (see location on map page 6). However, the
impact on air traffic was small compared to the extensive impact on trans-
Atlantic and European air traffic during the Eyjafjallajökull eruption.
The Eyjafjallajökull volcanic system in South Iceland erupted twice in spring
2010, first on the flank of the volcano and then at the summit. The flank eruption
was located on Fimmvörðuháls, an approximately 2 km wide pass of ice-free
land between Eyjafjallajökull ice cap and the neighbouring Katla volcano with its
overlying Mýrdalsjökull ice cap. Lava flowed north into two gullies, on either side
of Heljarkambur ridge, blocking the popular Fimmvörðuháls hiking trail which
leads to the outdoor area Þórsmörk. The eruption lasted from 20 March to 12
April. On 14 April 2010, another much bigger eruption began at the summit of
the volcano. It was preceded by intense earthquake activity at shallow depth
beneath the ice-topped crater of the volcano.
Sub-glacial eruptions progress into explosive eruptions when lava comes in
contact with ice, causing at the same time melt water flow. The Eyjafjallajökull
volcanic system has erupted three times before in historical
time, i.e. in the last 1100 years, ca. 920, 1612 and 1821-23.
The Grímsvötn volcano erupts regularly, the last time in 2004.
23

ON CENTER MAP NO 12

ON MAP NO 19
A cozy place to stay, Hótel Frón is
located on Reykjavík’s main
downtown shopping street.
This four floor, hotel, with elevator,
provides its guests with a selection
of 90 rooms and apartments.
All rooms have a bathroom,
minibar, telephone, television
and a safe.
All apartments have kitchen
facilities, a refrigerator, and a
cooking stove.
The hotel offers a remote internet
connection and facilities for
meetings.

ON MAP NO 25
JANUS
woolen underwear
is made of the finest
Merino wool wich is
soft and comfortable!
Visit our stores in
Reykjavík or Akureyri !
www.janus.no
Hafnarstræti 99-101
Akureyri
tel. 461-3006

HOW TO GET TO ICELAND BY AIR
Air line fares are subject to con stant change, so check with the air lines
or your tra vel agent for the best fare when you plan a visit to Iceland.
In addition to normal one-way and re turn fares a num ber of attract i ve
excursion and family fares are availa ble, as well as group fares for vari ous
sizes of groups. Air fares also differ between sea sons. For full details of
fares and services contact your local tra vel agent or any air line office.
The following companies operate flights to Iceland, Icelandair, Iceland
Express, Air Iceland, WOW Air, Air Greenland, Austrian Airlines, Lufthansa,
Air Berlin, Niki Luftfahrt, SAS, Hamburg International, German Wings,
Transavia France, Finnair, Delta Airlines, Edelweiss Air, Travel Service
from the foll owing cities:
AMST ER DAM
BARCELONA
BERGEN
BERLIN
BOSTON
BREMEN
BUDAPEST
COLONE
COPEN HAGEN
DORTMUND
DÜSSELDORF
FRANK FURT
FREDRICHSAFEN
GLAS GOW
HALIFAX
HANNOVER
HELSINKI
LONDON
MADRID
MANCHESTER
MIL AN
MUNICH
NEW YORK
NUUK
APP ROX IMA TE FLYING TIMES FROM SEVER AL CITIES
Amst er dam Reykja vík 3 ho urs 15 min.
Copen hagen Reykja vík 3 ho urs 20 min.
Frank furt Reykja vík 3 ho urs 45 min.
London Reykja vík 3 ho urs 5 min.
Hamburg Reykja vík 3 ho urs 15 min.
Paris Reykja vík 3 ho urs 25 min
New York Reykja vík 5 ho urs 30 min.
Nars ar su aq Reykja vík 2 ho urs 30 min.
Or lando Reykja vík 7 ho urs 10 min.
Zurich Ak ur eyri 3 ho urs
OR LANDO
OSLO
PARIS
PRAQUE
SEATTLE
STAVANGER
STUTTGART
STOCK HOLM
TORONTO
VIENNA
ZURICH
TRAVEL FACTS
27

ON MAP NO 23
Skólavörðustígur 38
Tel.: 551 1121 - Fax 551 1355
eggert@furrier.is

BEFORE YOU GO
LIST OF SCHENGEN COUNTRIES: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic,
Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Ger many, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy,
Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal,
Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. The standardized
Schengen visa will be valid for travelling to all the Schengen States. Thus, a
special visa for visiting Iceland Will not be necessary.
Iceland embassies no longer issue visas. On the occasion when Iceland
is the main destination, it is possible to apply for visa in the embassies
of other Schengen States, in over 100 places in the world, which issue
visas on behalf of Iceland.
Citicens of following States are exempted from visa obligation when
entering Iceland for stay up to three months (in total in the Schengen
area): Valid from March 25th 2001, Andorra, Argentina, Austria, Australia,
Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Cyprus,
Croatia, The Czech Republic, Denmark, Ecuador, El Salvador, Estonia,
Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Holy See, Honduras, Hong
Kong,*** Hungary, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania,
Luxembourg, Macao,**** Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Netherlands,
Nicaragua, Norway, New-Zealand, Panama, Paraguay, Portugal, Poland, San
Marino, S-Korea, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, Sweden,
United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay, Venezuela.
ARRIVAL IN ICELAND
DUTY-FREE ALLOWANCES: The duty-free store at Keflavík Airport is
open to coincide with flight departures and arrivals. Tourists may bring the
following duty-free goods into Iceland: 1) 1 litre of spirits (up to 47% alcohol
content). 2) 1.5 liters of wine (up to 21% alcohol content.) or 6 litres of beer 3)
3 liters of wine and 4) 200 cigarettes or 250 gr. of other tobacco products.
AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION / BUSES:
Flybus Arrivals
Operated all year daily from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik in connection with all
arriving flights. The Flybus brings passengers to Reykjavik Excursions and the
Flybus terminal at BSÍ, near to the capital´s center. From there passengers are
brought to some of the major hotels and guesthouses in Reykjavik.
Flybus departure
Operated all year daily from the BSÍ Bus Terminal to Keflavik Airport in
connection with all departing flights. A free pick-up service is available from
some of the major hotels and gueasthouses in Reykjavík.
Duration: 40 - 50 minutes. The fare apx 13 EUR
AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION / TAXIS: Taxis are always waiting at the
rank outside the arrival hall. Cab fare to Reykjavík for 4-passenger taxi is
equivalent to approximately apx. 90 EUR. Reykjavík taxis offer the same price
for the drive from Reykjavík to Keflavík airport.
TRAVEL FACTS
29

30
USEFUL CONVERSIONS
Imperial Equivalents
Length
1 inch = 2.5400 cm
1 foot = 12 inches = 0.3048 m
1 yard = 3 feet = 0.9144 m
1 furlong = 220 yards = 201.17 m
1 mile = 1760 yards = 1.6093 km
1 nautical mile = 6080 feet = 1.8532 km
1 centimetre (cm) = 10 millimeters = 0.3937 in
1 metre = 100 cm = 1.0936 yard
1 kilometre (km) = 1000 m = 0.6214 mile
Surface or area
1 sq cm (cm 2) = 100mm 2 = 0.1550sq in
1 sq metre (m 2 ) = 10.000 cm 2 = 1.960 sq yd
1 are (a) = 100 m 2 = 119.60 sq yds
1 hectare (ha) = 100 are = 2.4711 acres
1 sq km (km 2 ) = 100 hectares = 0.3861 sq miles
1 sq inch = 6.4516 cm 2
1 sq foot = 114. sq inches = 0.0929 m 2
1 sq yard = 9 sq feet = 0.8361 m 2
1 acre = 4048 sq yards = 4046.86 m 2
1 sq mile = 640 acres = 259.0 hectares
Capacity
1 cu cm (cm 3 ) = 0.0610 cu in
1cu metre (m 3 ) = 1000 dm 3 = 1.3080 cu yd
1 litre = 1 dm 3 = 1.7598 pint
1 hectolitre = 100 litres = 2.7497 bushels
cu inch = 16.387 cm 3
cu foot = 1728 cu inches = 0.0283 m 3
cu yard = 27 cu feet = 0.07646 m 3
pint = 4 gills = 0.5683 litre
quart = 2 pints = 1.1365 litre
gallon = 8 pints = 4.5461 litres
Weight
Avaoirdupois
1 ounce = 437.5 grains = 28.35 gm
1 pound = 16 ounces = 0.4536 kg
1 stone = 14 pounds = 6.6503 kg
1 hundredweight = 112 pounds = 50.802 kg
1 ton = 20 cwt = 1.0161 tonne
Temperature
32 40 50 60 70 75 85 95 105 140 175 212 ˚F
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 60 80 100 ˚C

CLIMA TE Thanks to the Gulf Str eam, Iceland enjoys a cool tempera te
oce an clima te: cool in sum mer and rather mild in wint er. However, the
we ather is very un pred ict a ble and tourists should be prepared for the
unex pect ed.
Avera ge Tempera t ure and Precipita tion 1961–1990
Tempera t ure C Precipita tion mm
PLACE JAN JULY JAN JULY
Reykja vík -0.5 10.6 75.7 51.8
Stykk is hólm ur -1.3 9.9 67.5 42.1
Ak ur eyri -2.2 10.5 55.5 33.0
Teig ar horn -0.3 8.8 129.0 83.8
Kirkju bæj ar klaust ur -0.4 11.2 145 120.0
West man Is lands 1.3 9.6 158.3 94.9
CLOT HING When tra vell ing in Iceland you should bring along light-weight
woollens, a swea t er or car dig an, a rain proof (water-proof) coat and sturdy
walking shoes. Also bring your swimm ing suit. Tra vell ers who are camp ing or
hea d ing into the int er ior will need warm und erwe ar and socks, rubber boots
and a warm sleep ing-bag.
MIDNIGHT SUN During sum mer the nights are bright in all of Iceland. In the
month of June the sun never fully sets in the north. There are even special
exc ursions to the is land of Gríms ey on the Arct ic Circle where you can
ex perience the midnight sun, that is to say if it is not clou dy! Keep in mind,
however, that the sun at midnight is not as warm as midday, so bring along
a swea t er.
RELIGION The esta bl is hed religion in Iceland is Luther an. There are many
Luther an churches in Iceland and services usu ally held ev ery Sunday at
11:00 or 14:00. There is also a Cat holic church in Reykja vík, and a num ber of
churches for other groups. Holy Mass in Eng lish is
of fer ed in the Rom an Cat holic Cathedral ev ery Sunday at 20:00.
LANUGA GE Iceland ic is a Teuton ic langu age of the Nor dic group. It is believed
to have changed little from the orig inal ton gue spo ken by the
Nor se settlers. Eng lish and Dan ish are widely spo ken and und er stood.
Iceland ic has two lett ers of its own: þ/Þ pronounced like th in „thing“ and ð/Ð
pronounced like th in „them“.
DIN ING Restaurants in Iceland of fer a wide vari ety of dis hes, rang ing from
Iceland ic seafood and mounta in lamb to Indi an or Japenese cuisine. There
are also places that of fer pizza, hamburgers and other less ex pensi ve
dis hes. The avera ge cost of Iceland ic meals (wit hout wine or liquor) is as follows:
Break fast EUR 10-20, lunch EUR 15-25, dinn er EUR 30-40 .
TIPP ING Service and VAT are in vari ably inclu ded in prices in Iceland.
TRAVEL FACTS
31

ON MAP NO 20
A modern hotel with all hotels facilities
in central Reykjavík. All rooms with bath, TV,
radio telephone and free wireless Internet access.
Excellent service and reasonable prices with
breakfast included. A conference room and a
restaurant on the groundfloor.
Brautarholt 29, 105 Reykjavík, Iceland
Tel: +354 568 0777
Fax: +354 568 9747
info@hotelorkin.is
www.hotelorkin.is

TOURIST INFORMATION
Icelandic Tourist Board Iceland
Lækjargata 3, Gimli - IS-101 Reykjavik Iceland. Tel: (+354) 535-5500
Fax: (+354) 535-5501 Email: info@icetourist.is / www.icetourist.is
Icelandic Tourist Board USA
655 Third Avenue, New York, NY.100017 USA, Tel: 212 885 9700 Fax: 212 885 9710
Email: usa@intertourist.is / www.icelandtouristboard.com
Icelandic Tourist Board Germany
City Centre, Frankfurter Str. 181 D-63263, Neu-Isenburg, Germany
Tel: (6102) 25 4484 Fax: (6102) 25 4570 Email: info@icetourist.de / www.icetourist.de
HOTELS AND GUESTHOUSES
There are hotels and guesthouses to suit all tastes and budgets, from the most
luxurious in Reykjavík, to the simple and sufficient throughout the country. Several
travel agencies and airlines have special accommodation offers which can only be
purchased outside Iceland. Children’s discounts are also widely available. Contact your
booking office for further information. The Icelandic Hotel and Restaurant Association
publishes a yearly brochure with a list of all major hotels and guesthouses in Iceland.
Contact their office at Hafnarstræti 20, IS-101 Reykjavík, tel.: +354-511 8000
ICELANDAIR HOTELS
Icelandair operates eight first-class hotels around the country under the name
ICELANDAIR HOTELS. www.icehotels.is Icelandair also runs the EDDA Summer Hotel
Chain. Both bed and breakfast and sleeping-bag accommodation are offered in the
EDDA hotels. www.edda.is
FARMHOUSE ACCOMMODATION
Icelandic Farm Holidays is a chain of farmhouses around Iceland offering
accommodation and various activities to travellers in their homes,
guesthouses, country-hotels and cottages.For a new brochure or booking,
contact Icelandic Farm Holidays, Síðumúla 2, IS 108 Reykjavík, Iceland, tel:
+354 5702700, e-mail: ifh@farmholidays.is Webside: www.farmholidays.is.
YOUTH AND FAMILY HOSTELS
There are various youth and family hostels around Iceland and all people
are welcome regardless of age. Almost all hostels have family rooms (rooms
with 2 to 4 beds). A few hostels are open all year, others operate in summer
only. For further information contact the Icelandic Youth Hostels Association,
Sundlaugavegur 34, IS-105 Reykjavík; tel.: +354-553 8110, fax: +354-588
9201. Homepage: www.hostel.is, E-mail: info@hostel.is.
CAMPING
There are approx. 130 campsites in Iceland. Camping grounds are normally
open from the beginning of June until the end of August or middle of
September depending on location.
ACCOMMODATION IN ICELAND
33

ON MAP NO 19
26
34
Blu

TO URS
Iceland of fers a great vari ety of to urs, some cover ing large parts of the
country, others small ar e as at a time. There are tra ditional to urs as well as
to urs quite differ ent from what you have ex perienced el sewhere. There are
nat ure to urs with strik ing landscapes, young lava fields, ro ar ing wa ter falls and
majest ic glaci al ice-caps. Tra vell ing into the un in habited int er ior of Iceland
is limited to the months of July and Aug ust, except for some speci ally
organ ized wint er to urs (see sect ion on open ing of the mounta in tracks).
Wint er to urs in Iceland are un for getta ble: there is ski ing for both beg inn ers
and the ex perienced, ice-climb ing and ice-fis hing. In addition, there are
org an ized day to urs, and week end and holi day to urs all year round with
Iceland ic to uring clubs where the emp has is is on hik ing.
Reykjavík Excursion offer a wide variety of quality day tours all year, spanning
from a two and a half hours sightseeing of the city to whole day tours.
Reykjavík Excursion offer passengers close contact with the many sides of
Iceland, its nature, history, culture and daily life.
Elding Sea Adventrues Company, tel: +354 555 3565 offers daily very interesting
whale watching and sea angling tours from Reykjavík old Harbour.
TAX-FREE SHOPP ING A refund of the local Value Add ed Tax is availa ble to
for eign visitors in Iceland. The refund will result in a red uct ion of up to 15%
of the retail price, provided depart ure from Iceland is wit hin 3 months af t er
the purchase is made. The purchase am ount must be no less than ISK 4,000
(VAT inclu ded) per sales receipt, and all goods (except woollens) must be
packed in sealed bags or containers).
HEALTH INS URANCE Cit izens of Scand in av ia and the U.K. are co ver ed by
national health ins urance. Cit izens of other countries are advised to cover
themselv es with health ins urance while tra vell ing.
VACCINATIONS If arri v ing in Iceland from an in fect ion-free nation as
det ermined by the World Health Org an ization, no vaccinations are required.
EL ECT RIC CUR RENT The el ect ric cur rent in Iceland is 220 volts, 50 HZ AC.
Ple a se note that the prongs on el ect rical equip ment you bring with you may
be differ ent from our stand ards. It is advisa ble to check before us ing such
equip ment.
TRAVEL FACTS
35

ON MAP NO 22

THE NORTHERN LIGHTS
Gréta Guðjónsdóttir
The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, occur
at height of 100 km (62 miles) and take the form of a curtain
fluttering in the wind, or points of light emitting from a single
spot. The phenomenon is a fascinating spectacle, caused by
electrical impulses entering the atmosphere from the sun and
being guided by magnetic fields. When the particles meet
molecules in the atmosphere the Northern Lights are formed and
their colour is determined by the type of molecules. Incidentally,
every occurrance of Northern Lights is ´answered´ a fraction of a
second later, by Southern Lights over the Antarctic. In Greenland
it was once believed that the Northern Lights were caused by
the souls of the dead playing ball with walrus skulls. According
to legend, if you whistled at the Northern Lights, they came
closer before they finally made off with you. However, if you
barked like a dog you could repel them. Feel free to bark!
The Northern Lights appear all year round, but can only be
observed under a clear, dark night sky. In practice this means
that the Northern Lights are most impressive in the autumn
months, but they can also be seen in March and they ´disappear´
in the light summer nights.
37

ON MAP NO 18

Travel is more than just A to B. Travel should open new doors for you.
Step into a world of excitement. The Hilton Reykjavik Nordica welcomes you
to stylish rooms, the trendy VOX Restaurant and the city’s most exclusive
health club NordicaSpa, all just a step away from city center.
To start your journey, travel to hilton.com
Hilton Reykjavik Nordica, Sudurlandsbraut 2, 108 Reykjavik, Iceland,
Tel: +354 444 5000, Fax: +354 444 5001,
E-mail: info.reykjaviknordica@hilton.com
ON MAP NO 2
ENNEMM / SÍA / NM50586

40
REYKJA VÍK
THE WESTERN MOST AND
THE NORTHERN MOST
CAPI TAL IN THE WORLD
This dou ble hono ur of extend ing the limits of ci vi lization rests with
Ingólf ur Arn ar son, with a help ing hand from the gods. He esta bl is hed the
first permanent settlem ent in Iceland in 874, and named the site Reykja vík
– Smokey Bay – not a refer ence to fog, but to the steam from geothermal
springs which heat the city today.
The city is built on the shor es of a shelt er ed in let off the vast Faxa Bay. It’s
full of sur prises and contrasts with its busy harbo ur and the
impos ing peaceful ness of Mt. Esja across the wa ter. Take a walk through
the city centre and see the charm ing blend of old and new where peaceful
grassy slopes and ponds teem ing with bird life are only a sto ne’s throw
from the city’s banks and business offices.
This northernmost capital of the world is a buzzing cultural city where
cosmopolitan currents meet traditional trends. Reykjavík held the title
European City of Culture in the year 2000; a welcome recognition of
the energetic and colourful cultural life of Reykjavík. Reykjavík Art
Museum,consisting of three excellent museums, Reykjavík Municipal
Museum at Árbær, Reykjavík Museum of Photographs, City Archives and
Library, jointly housed in Grófarhús in Tryggvagata – are all good choices
if you want to spend a day enjoying the city’s culture.

But Reykjavík is not only an ultra modern city – its roots date back more
than 1100 years. Recent archaeological discoveries have located a ruin of
a farm from the 10th century right in the city center. It can be seen on an
exhibit about the Settlement time called Reykjavík 871±2 in Aðalstræti 16.
Reykjavík has the best of both worlds; the qualities of a modern, forwardlooking
society are complemented by a close connection to the beautiful
and unspoilt nature in the city’s vicinity. Whether one is in the mood for a
spot of midnight golf, horse trekking or salmon fishing – there is no need
to leave the city as all these choices and much more are within one’s
reach. And the good news for those looking for unbridled fun and an
unforgettable night out – the famous Reykjavík nightlife certainly lives up
to its reputation.
The clean energy, safety and general good quality of life give both Reykjavík’s
inhabitants and guests a treasured sense of wellness and contentment.
Reykjavík’s plentiful sources of green energy ensure clean air, unpolluted
water and fresh food. Fish, seafood and lamb – traditional Icelandic
ingredients are imaginatively prepared by Reykjavík’s high quality
restaurants that offer cuisine from all four corners of the world. The
geothermal baths in Reykjavík are not to be missed either by anyone
visiting our friendly city. One of the best ways to meet the people of
Reykjavík is to visit one of the seven baths, as going to the thermal pools
is very much a way of life for Icelanders. Another geothermal gem is a
manmade beach with warm water in Nauthólsvík – only 15 minutes walk
from the city centre.
41

ON CENTER MAP NO 12
Pure Icelandic woolens. Traditional Icelandic silver.
Great variety of souvenirs.
ALL PROFITS GO TO CHARITY.
The Thorvaldsensbazar was opened in June 1901. It is run by the
charity foundation Thorvaldsenssociety (est.1875).
The society´s members have through the years served as voluntary
workers in the Bazar. In the earlier times it became a boom to many
households to sell their homemade items in the Bazar ( wood & wollens).
But in later years the Bazar is run in the customery way. All
profits are used for beneficiary work, mainly for sick children.
THORVALDSENS BAZAR
AUSTURSTRÆTI 4
Tel.: 551 3509
email: thorvaldsens@isl.is
www.thorvaldsens.is
SINCE 1901

HI STORY
The country may have been settled by some Christ i an monks
from Ireland al r ea dy in 700 A.D. The first Iceland ic settler is
said to be the Norweg i an, Ingólf ur Arn ar son, who came to
the country in 874. He res ided where the capi tal is now, and
gave it the name Reykjavík. Half a cent ury la t er, or in 930, the
Iceland ic parli ament in anci ent times, ”Alt hingi“ was founded,
which is consider ed the old est parli ament in the world. The
meet ings were held at the beauti ful place, Thing vell ir, located
at Iceland’s big gest lake, Lake of Thingvell ir, 50 km from
Reykja vík. Thing vell ir is now a national park.
The Norweg i an people who settled in Iceland were he athen. In
the year 1000, through an act of law, Christ i anity was adopted.
Such an ev ent has not happ ened in any other country in the world.
Late in the 14th cent ury the Dan ish king came to power in
Iceland. The Iceland ers could never submit to the Dan ish
authority and struggled firmly to rega in their independence. In
1918 Iceland became a sovereign state with the same king as
Den mark. On the 17th of June, 1944, the Repu blic of Iceland
was founded and, Iceland ers got their comp lete independence
aga in. Since then, that day has been Iceland’s national day.
43

Explore Iceland
on your own
terms.
With so much to see and do, why not rent
a car and hit the road in comfort and style
with Budget?
+354 562 6060
www.budget.is

HOT SPRINGS – SOLFATARAS
Iceland is richer in hot springs and sol fat aras or natural heat
than any other country in the world. Two main types of thermal
ar e as are ”high-tempera t ure fields“, tota l ing 14 ar e as located
in the new volc an ic medi an zone. They are charact er ized by
steam ho les and mud pools, and the aston is hing magnitu de of
colour that they project.
”Low tempera t ure fields“ are the other kind of ar e as
charact er ized by hot springs found all over Iceland tot all ing
800 in num ber.
The wa ter in these springs reaches the surface with the
tempera t ure close to boil ing point and some of these springs
are geysers. The most famous being the Great Geys ir in
Hauka dal ur in South Iceland, from which the international word
geys ir is derived. The natural hot wa ter is now widely used to
heat hou ses and green hou ses in Iceland.
The wa ter from hot springs is used to heat hou ses (more than
75% of the population now enjoys this type of heat ing in their
homes). Over 10 hect ares of green hou ses are heated in the
same way all owing many types of vegeta bles and flowers to
be grown in commerci al qu an tities.
45

ON CENTER MAP NO 5
EACH PIECE IS
ONE OF A KIND
KERAMIK – STUDIO – GALLERÍ
VESTURGATA 5 – TEL./FAX 552 6036
kogga@vortex.is
www.kogga.is

RIVERS AND LAKES
Rivers are nu mer ous and relati vely volu minous, but none of
them is naviga ble due to swift cur rents. The largest are tur bid
glaci al rivers. Cle ar-wa ter rivers are harnessed for
hydro-el ect ric power prod uct ion and abound in salmon, which
are caught in great num bers. Charact er ist ic of the yout h ful
landscape are the many im pressi ve wa ter falls, the most not ed
being Gull foss (32 metres), Detti foss (44 metres), the largest in
Europe and Skóga foss (60 metres). There are countless lakes
in Iceland, many of them rich in trout and char, the big gest
being Thing valla vatn (83 squ are kilo metres). There are also
many rivers in Iceland rich in salmon.
The famous smoked North Atlantic salmon delicatessen,
is available in supermarkets and Islandica store at Keflavik
International airport.
47

ON MAP NO 4
Laugar opening hours:
Monday - Friday 06:00 - 23:30
Saturday 08:00 - 22:00
Sunday 08:00 - 20:00
Enjoy
a relaxing holiday
at Laugar Spa
Situated in Laugardalur,
the Laugar Spa offers a center of wellness
for your whole family.
Feel seven heavens, enjoy our health spa
and ensure your body and soul feel the best.
Laugar´s outdoor and indoor thermal pools,
beauty and massage clinic, unique fitness center
combined with luxury spa will help you breeze
into a wonderful and relaxing holiday.
Laugar - Sundlaugarvegur 30a - Tel +354 553 0000 - www.laugarspa.is - laugar@worldclass.is

Breiða merk ur jök ull forms part of the Vatna jök ull, largest icecap in Europe.
The glaci er has for med a lagoon, on which Icebergs and floes can be seen.
GLACI ERS AND ICE-CAPS
The glaci ers are one of the most dist inct i ve and excit ing
feat ures of Iceland’s scenery. Almost all types of glaci er are
found in Iceland, ranging from small cirque glaci ers to extensi ve
icecaps. By far the largest of the glaci ers is the Vatna jök ull in the
south-east with an area of 8.400 squ are kilometres and reaching
thickness of 1.000 metres.
One of the small er glaci ers, the cone-shaped Snæ fells jök ull
(made famous by Jules Vern e in his “Jo ur n ey to the Centre of
the Earth“), may be seen across the bay from Reykja vík and
af fords a fascinat ing sight at sundown.
Taxi station Hreyfill on page 14 offer a well approved sightseeing
private trips to this part of Iceland.
49

LOCATED NO 1 ON MAP PAGE 6
Free
aperitif
with LAVA's lunch
buffet or when
ordered from
evening
menu
Lunch buffet at restaurant LAVA at Blue Lagoon
Icelandic tasting experience
www.bluelagoon.com

LOCATED NO 1 ON MAP PAGE 6
THE SOUT HWEST HIDDEN POWER - Blue Lagoon
For the visitor who arri ves by air, this area will give the first im pression of
Iceland. Af t er customs forma lities and out on the open road he will be confronted
with a rugged moon like landscape. Lava fields stretch out to distant
mounta in ridges. There are no trees, no rivers, no val leys. Volcan ic act i vity formed
this peninsula and act i vity is evident in fissures spout ing steam and in the
rich potenti al being realised at the Svarts engi geothermal power station with its
un ique technology. At Svartsengi the famous Blue Lagoon is located, Iceland’s
most unique and popular attraction, located only 40 minutes from Reykjavík
and 20 minutes from Keflavík International Airport.
Blue Lagoon offers spa treatments and massages that take place both indoor
and in the lagoon itself, based on the geothermal seawater’s active ingredients:
minerals, silica and algae. Guests bathing in the milky waters of the lagoon
have easy access to the famous white silica mud, an essential part of the spa
experience. The Exclusive Bath & Lounge is an option for guests looking for
more privacy. This novelty features private changing rooms, a modernly designed
lounge with a fireplace and a reserved indoor lagoon. Light refreshments are
served and certain dishes from Lava Restaurant can be ordered.
Lagoon Bar serves guests bathing in the lagoon and offers light refreshments.
On the second floor a relaxing area awaits guests with comfortable seats and
beautiful view of the Blue Lagoon.
Lava Restaurant offers a unique icelandic dining experience. It is built into the
cliff so it features a natural lava wall, adding to its uniqueness. The meals are
delicious, inventive and the menu ranges from light dishes to gourmet meals.
Blue Lagoon skin care products are based on a unique blend of Blue Lagoon
geothermal seawater active ingredients: minerals, silica, and algae. Blue
Lagoon skin care products are available at our shops located at the Blue
Lagoon, Keflavík International Airport, Laugarvegur 15 in Reykjavík city
center, and at the online shop www.bluelagoon.com
51

ON CENTER MAP NO 21
The Settlement exhibition Reykjavík 871±2 is in the heart of Reykjavik.
The exhibition is based on the archaeological excavation of Viking Age ruins and findings from the other
excavations in the city centre. The Settlement exhibition is located in Reykjavik old centre, on the corner of
Adalstraeti. The exhibition is open daily from 10 - 17

54
THE ICELANDIC SHEEP
When Viking settlers first arrived in Iceland in AD 874, they brought
with them two breeds of domestic livestock, the Icelandic Horse and
Icelandic Sheep. In time, both would have almost as much impact
on the history and development of the country as man himself.
From the very beginning, Icelanders have found themselves
engaged in a relentless struggle to come to terms with the rugged
environment in which they live. While the horse served for transport
and labour, sheep were the key to the nation´s survival, providing
generations of Icelanders not only with food but also with wool
as protection from the biting cold of the harsh northern climate.
Without sheep, Iceland would have been uninhabitable.
Although the medieval sagas may have been inspired by deeds of
heroism and feats of bravery, they also tell of the activities around which
daily life revolved, among them shearing, spinning and carding - skills
and crafts which became traditions and altered little through the ages.
As a breed, the Iceland Sheep is unique - the purity of the strain
has been protected by centuries of isolation and of isolation and a
total absence of contact with others. By the same token, the wool
it produces has no counterpart anywhere.
Evolving over 1.100 years of exposure to the sub-Arctic climate,
Icelandic wool has a distinctive combination of inner and outer
fibres. The outer fibres are long, glossy, tough and water-resistant,
while the inner ones are fine, soft and insulating, providing a high
resistance to cold.

THE ICELANDIC HORSE
The history of the Icelandic
horse can be traced all the
way back to the settlement
of the country in the late 9th
century. When the Vikings
brought with them their
horses. Clearly the horse was
the catalyst that allowed the
settlement of Iceland to go
forward and prosper. Since
no other breed of horse
has ever been imported to
Iceland, this special animal is a pure-bred "Viking-Horse".
For centuries the horse was the only means of transportation in Iceland,
as well as being the most important working animal in the days before
machinery. The horse was used for everything. They worked tilling the
farmlands from dawn to dusk and provided transportation between the
farms as they were settled. They went on scouting expeditions into this
new territory in search of everything from water to grazing areas. Strong
and sure footed, the Icelandic horse adjusted and adapted to this new
land certainly as fast and most likely faster than the new settlers.
Viking battles were fought on horseback and the animal quickly
adjusted to any situation that was presented to it. Is it any wonder that
many of the slain Vikings warriors of the many battles in earlier times
were often buried with their horses as a sign of honor and respect?
The Icelandic horse has many characteristics unique unto itself.
Perhaps the most noticeable would be its intermediate size and the
mane of shaggy hair. The five gaits of the horse are also one of the
special features that sets it apart from all other horses. These gaits are
the "fetgangur" the walk or step, the "brokk" or trot, the "tölt", which is
a faster type of walk, the "skeið" or the pace and the "stökk", or gallop.
Today there are around 80.000 horses in Iceland, and around 100.000
Icelandic horses abroad, most in Europe but also a growing number
in the United States and Canada. Growing popularity of the Icelandic
horse has made horse breeding and exporting a valuable business,
boosting agriculture and industry in many areas.
55

ON MAP NO 16

ICELANDIC NATIONAL COSTUME
Þjóðbúningurinn is the collective native term for the Icelandic National costumes.
The national costume has enjoyed various levels of popularity since the term was
coined in Iceland in the 19th century, during the fight for independence.
Women’s costume
The following types of costume are all recognized as Icelandic National
costumes. However both the kyrtill and skautbúningur were designed in the 18th
century from scratch as ceremonial costumes, while the faldbúningur, peysuföt
and the upphlutur are traditional daily wear of Icelandic women in olden times.
The Faldbúningur is an older type of costume worn by women in since at
least the 17th century and well into the 19th. In its most recongnized form it
incorporated a hat decorated with a curved sheet-like ornament prodruding
into the air and exists in two variants.
The Peysuföt are black woolen clothes commonly worn by women in the
18-19th century. They usually consisted of a twill skirt and a jacket of fine
knitted woolen yearn with a black tail cap. It is believed that this costume was
invented when women, desiring simpler working clothes than the faldbúningur.
The Upphlutur is a woman’s costume, consisting of bodice that can be
coloured in bright colours such as red or blue, but often black. Its headpiece
is a tail cap. The costume is basically the undergarment of the faldbúningur.
The Kyrtill was designed to look like Viking-age costumes. It however incorporates
a hat similar to the one on the skautbúningur.
The Skautbúningur was conceived as a modernized variation of the faldbúningur,
which had fallen out of use by the middle of the 19th century. It incorporates a
complicated hat inspired by the ones traditionally used with the faldbúningur.
Men’s costume
Mens costume exists in three radically different versions. It is the only direct
descendant of traditional daily wear of Icelandic men, while the other two
were designed from the start as ceremonial costume.
The one considered most traditional consists of woolen breeches or trousers,
a usually double buttoned vest and a double buttoned jacket called treyja.
Sometimes a peysa with a single row of buttons is used in lieu of the vest and
treyja. On the head is a tail cap. This costume was usually black, navy blue or
dark green, although the vest, which was usually brighter was sometimes red.
It is identical to the clothing Icelandic men commonly wore from the 17th until
the 19th century.
57

ON CENTER MAP NO 30
Make sure
it’s Elding!
Make sure
it’s Elding!
Take part in an adventure at sea with an unforgettable trip
into the world of whales and sea birds all year round.
Take part in an adventure at sea with an unforgettable trip
into Elding the Whale world Watching of whales schedule and sea – all year birds round all year Other round. adventures at sea
EL-01 / EL-02 / EL-03
Puffin Watching
Elding Jan-Mar Whale Apr Watching May Jun schedule Jul – Aug all year Sept round Oct-Dec Other 15 May - adventures 15 August at 9:30 at and sea 15:00
EL-01 / EL-02 9:00 / EL-03 9:00 9:00 9:00 9:00 9:00 Puffin Watching
10:00 10:00 10:00
Jan-Mar Sea Angling
13:00
Apr
13:00
May
13:00
Jun
13:00
Jul
13:00
Aug
13:00
Sept
13:00
Oct-Dec
13:00 15 May - 15 August at 9:30 and 15:00
9:00 9:00 9:00
14:00
9:00
14:00
9:00
14:00
9:00 1 May - 30 September at 11:00
17:00*
10:00
17:00
10:00
17:00
10:00
17:00 17:00* Sea Angling
13:00 13:00 13:00 13:00
20:30**
13:00
20:30
13:00
20:30**
13:00 13:00
1 May - 30 September at 11:00
14:00 14:00 14:00
* From 15 May 17:00* to 15 September 17:00 17:00 17:00 17:00*
** From 15 June to 15 August 20:30** 20:30 20:30**
* From 15 May to 15 September
** From 15 June to 15 August
Call us on +354 555 3565
Call
or visit
us on
www.elding.is
+354 555 3565
or visit www.elding.is
ELDING WHALE WATCHING
ELDING WHALE WATCHING
from Reykjavík
from Reykjavík
www.elding.is
www.elding.is
Environmental Award
Icelandic Tourist Board
Environmental Award
Icelandic Tourist Board
Tour Operator
Authorised by
Icelandic Tourist Board
Tour Operator
Authorised by
Icelandic Tourist Board
ENNEMM / SÍA / NM51115
ENNEMM / SÍA / NM51115

The Whale
Whales are the largest members of the animal kingdom and at the same time
one of the most mysterious. Little is known about these majestic creatures
and their behaviour. Due to excessive whaling, many species of whales were
on the brink of extinction late in the 20th century, and despite a worldwide
ban on whaling, many of the species are still regarded as very endangered.
One of those is the Blue Whale, but according to estimates there are only
10–15.000 animals existing worldwide. Here are a few points about some of
the whales we are likely to see in Iceland Whale Watching Cruises:
The Blue Whale is the largest creature that has ever lived on this planet, usually
24–27 meters long and up to 190 tons.This is also one of the rarest animals,
as according to estimates, there are only a few thousand Blue Whales
existing in the World. The waters of the coast of Iceland are among the best
in the world to watch these magnificent animals.
The Fin Whale is the second largest whale, usually 18–22 meters long and
weighing up to 80 tons. This whale is fairly common far out to sea, but is not
frequently close to the shore.
The Humpback Whales are famous for their spectacular aerial displays, and can
often be seen jumping, slapping the water with the tail and flipper-slapping.
They are usually 12–15 meters long and weigh 25–30 tons, The Humpback
Whales are also famous for their singing, which is the most complex and
beautiful in the animal kingdom.
The Sperm Whale is the largest of all the toothed whales, up to 16 meters long
and weighing up to 50 tons. They live in deep waters and are believed to dive
deeper and longer than any other animal.
The Dolphins are the smallest and most common of the whales. They are
frequently seen on whale watching tours all around the country. They are
often entertaining to watch, leaping high into the air.
The Orca Whale is frequently seen in the Icelandic waters all around the country.
These whales have the reputation of being aggressive and dangerous as their
other name ”killer whales“ reflects. They can be up to 10 meters long and
weigh up to 9 tonnes.
The Minke Whale is the most common whale in the seas around Iceland.They
are up to 10 meters long and can weigh up to 10 tonnes.
WHALE WATCHING IN ICELAND
59

ON MAP NO 18
Happy smiling Headwear
Skólavörðustígur 18, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
hufur@mmedia.is - Tel. +354 552 6466
Online shop: www.hufursemhlaeja.is

HÓTEL EDDA
BROSANDI
ALLAN
HRINGINN
12 HÓTEL ALLAN HRINGINN
• Veitingastaðir á öllum hótelum
• Alltaf stutt í sund
• Vingjarnleg þjónusta
• Gjafabréf fáanleg
• Eddubiti í ferðalagið
1 ML Laugarvatn • 2 ÍKÍ Laugarvatn • 3 Skógar • 4 Vík í Mýrdal • 5 Nesjum • 6 Neskaupstaður
7 Egilsstaðir • 8 Stórutjarnir • 9 Akureyri • 10 Laugarbakki • 11 Ísafjörður • 12 Laugar í Sælingsdal
Pantaðu allan hringinn á www.hoteledda.is eða í síma 444 4000.
ENNEMM / SÍA / NM50586

TRY IT YOURSELF!
What would your name be if you followed the Icelandic tradition?
What would your father’s and mother’s names be? Just for fun, try
completing the form for your family members.
This is done in the following manner:
1. First, fill in the blanks at the top with the names of your paternal
and maternal grandparents.
2. Then write your father’s and mother’s names, with their
patronymics, as they would be if you followed the Icelandic
tradition, in the blanks below. Whose son and daughter are
your parents?
3. In the blank space at the bottom of the page you add your
name, in the Icelandic fashion. Whose son or daughter are you?
FATHER’S FATHER:
FATHER’S MOTHER:
FATHER: MOTHER:
MOTHER’S FATHER:
MOTHER’S MOTHER:
MY NAME ACCORDING TO THE ICELANDIC CUSTOM:

ICELANDIC NAMES
Most Icelanders still follow the ancient tradition of deriving
their last name from the first name of their father.
If a man is called Leifur Eiríksson his name is Leifur and he
is Eiríksson (the son of a man called Eiríkur). A woman called
Þórdís Haraldsdóttir has the personal name Þórdís and is
Haraldsdóttir (i.e. Harald´s daughter).
If Þórdís Haraldsdóttir marries Leifur Eiríksson she does not
become Eiríksson, like her husband. She continues to be
Þórdís Haraldsdóttir.
If Þórdís and Leifur have a son, he would have Leifsson as a last
name, and their daughter would have Leifsdóttir as her last name.
We have to keep in mind that Eiríksson, Leifsson and
Haraldsdóttir are not really names as such, but patronymics,
which refer to their fathers. For this reason Icelanders always
have to be referred to by their given names. The patronymic is
never used alone.
Icelanders say for example, the President of Iceland, Ólafur
Ragnar Grímsson, or even President ÓIafur Ragnar but never
President Grímsson. There is a limited number of Icelanders
who do have family names.
63

REYKJAVIK
THERMAL POOLS
There is no better way to recharge your mind and body
then to visit one of reykjavík’s outdoor swimming pools
www.itr.is ı tel.: 411 5000

– have a refreshing swim or simply lounge
in the warm waters and relax.

ON MAP NO 27

DISTANCES IN KM
Vík Sel foss Rvík Borg ar- Ísa - Akur- Eg ils- Höfn
nes fjörður eyri stað ir
Akranes 220 91 49 38 422 353 617 493
Akureyri 561 432 389 315 567 1336* 265 512
Blönduós 416 287 244 170 423 145 410 657
Borgarnes 246 117 74 1336 384 315 580 519*
Breiðdalsvík 430* 560* 617* 662 915 347 82 166
Búðardalur 326 197 154 80 304 281 546 599*
Dalvík 585 456 412 339 591 44 309 555
Djúpivogur 368* 497* 554* 614 979 411 146 103
Egilsstaðir 511* 640* 698* 580 832 265 1336 247
Eiðar 525* 654* 668 594 846 279 14 261
Eskifjörður 542* 671* 702 628 881 313 48 278
Flókalundur 513 384 341 267 116 468 733 786*
Grindavík 229 99 52 118 502 433 698 501*
Grundarfjörður 357 228 185 111 416 389 654 630*
Gullfoss 176 71 125 184 569 499 687* 449*
Hallormsstaður 515* 644* 680 606 858 291 26 251
Hella 93 36 94 153 537 468 604* 366*
Hólmavík 445 316 273 199 224 344 609 718*
Húsavík 652 523 480 406 659 91 220 467
Hvammstangi 370 239 197 123 376 203 468 642*
Hvolsvöllur 80 49 106 166 550 481 591* 353*
Höfn í Hornafirði 273* 402* 459* 519* 902 512 247 1346
Ísafjörður 630 500 457 384 1973* 567 832 922*
Keflavík 226 97 48 116 500 431 696 499*
Kirkjubæjarklaustur 71 201 258 318 702 633 440* 201*
Laugarvatn 169 39 93 153 538 468 680* 441*
Ólafsvík 367 239 195 121 443 416 681 640*
Reykjahlíð v/Mývatn 660* 531 488 414 667 99 165 412
Reykholt um Stafholtst. 255 126 84 43 387 318 583 528*
Sauðárkrókur 492 362 319 246 498 119 384 631
Selfoss 129 1336 57 117 500 432 640* 402*
Seyðisfjörður 538* 667* 681 607 859 292 27 274
Skaftafell 141* 270* 327* 387* 771* 639 374 136
Skógar, Eyjafjöllum 32 97 154 214 598 529 543* 305*
Stykkishólmur 345 215 172 98 390 363 628 617*
Vík í Mýrdal 1336 129 187 246 630 561 511* 273*
Vopnafjörður 684* 665 622 548 800 233 173 420
Þingvellir 174 45 49 95 479 410 675 447*
Þórshöfn
(*) via Skeiðarásand road.
754* 672 629 555 808 240 243 490
DISTANCES IN KM
67

LOCATED NO 2 ON MAP PAGE 6
Álafoss
Álafossvegur 23
Mosfellsbær
C.a 16 km from Reykjavík
on the road to Þingvellir
Open:
Mon. - Frid. 9:00 -18:00
Sat. 9:00 - 16:00
Tel: 566 6303
Þingvellir
Mosfellsbær
Grafarvogur - Bridge - Grafarholt
Since 1896
Reykjavík
www.alafoss.is
Wool & Souvernir Souvenir Shop
alafoss@islandia.is
www.alafoss.is
Design: Sjáaldur auga míns 2008

CLOTHING SIZES
For older children sizes usually correspond with their ages
Ameriacan British and Continental sizes are the same
¾5 8
½8
¾ 7 8
¾ 7 8 ½8
¾5 8
69

ON CENTER MAP NO 7
PIZZA PRONTO
Delicious Italian oven- baked
pizza at resonable price
PIZZA PRONTO
Bankastræti 14
tel. 517 5445

ON MAP NO 26

ON CENTER MAP NO 10

RESTAURANT
ON CENTER MAP NO 21
Taste the freshness
of a farmer’s market
Housed in one of the city’s oldest buildings, Fish
Housed in one of the city’s oldest buildings, Fish
Market uses ingredients sourced directly from
Market uses ingredients sourced directly from
the nation’s best farms, lakes, and sea to create
the nation’s best farms, lakes, and sea to create
unforgettable Icelandic dishes with a modern twist.
unforgettable Icelandic dishes with a modern twist.
GO LIST
GO LIST
2008
2008
AÐALSTRÆTI 12 | +354 578 8877 | FISHMARKET.IS
AÐALSTRÆTI 12 | +354 578 8877 | FISHMARKET.IS
LUNCH WEEKDAYS 11:30 - 14:00 | EVENINGS 18:00 - 23:30
LUNCH WEEKDAYS 11:30 - 14:00 | EVENINGS 18:00 - 23:30

ON CENTER MAP NO 12

ON CENTER MAP NO 18
After years of study, strings of awards and having led kitchens
of After some years of Reykjavík’s of study, strings most esteemed of awards restaurants, and having Gústav led kitchens still sees
him of some self of as Reykjavík’s a kid from most up north, esteemed with restaurants, a life long passion Gústav still for sees fish.
him self as a kid from up north, with a life long passion for fish.

ON MAP NO 16

ÞRÍR FRAKKAR
Café - Restaurant
Specialities: Fresh seafood
and whale meat
Open daily for lunch and dinner
except Sat./Sun. for dinner only
Baldursgata 14
Reservations tel. 552 3939
Fax 561 3939 • frakkar@islandia.is
www.3frakkar.com
ON MAP NO 24

78
FISKUR:
Ýsa (ný, nætursöltuð
eða reykt)
Þorskur
Lúða (smálúða, stórlúða)
Sandhverfa
Skarkoli (rauðspretta)
Karfi
Skata (ný eða kæst)
Skötuselur
Ufsi
Steinbítur
Langa
Rauðmagi
Grásleppa (söltuð eða sigin)
Síld
Saltfiskur
Lax, villtur, eldislax
(nýr, reyktur og grafinn)
Silungur
Bleikja
Áll
Hörpuskel
Kræklingur
Beitukóngur
Humar
Rækja, úthafsrækja
LIST OF PRODUCTS
LISTE DE PRODUITS • WARENVERZEICHNIS • PRODUKTFÖRTECKNING
Icelandic Fish
FISH:
Haddock (fresh,
half-salted or smoked)
Cod
Halibut (small, large)
Turbot
Plaice
Redfish
Skate, ray (fresh or
fermented and salted)
Monkfish
Saithe
Catfish
Ling
Lumpfish
Lumpfish (salted
or half-dried)
Herring
Salt cod
Salmon, wild, farmreared,
(fresh, smoked
and dill-cured)
Trout
Arctic Charr
Eel
Scallop
Mussel
Whelk
Lobster
Shrimp, (deep-water) prawn
POISSON:
Églefin (frais,
demi-sel ou fumé)
Cabillaud
Flétan (petit, grand)
Turbot
Plie au carrelet
Sébaste (Rascasse du Nord)
Pocheteau gris (frais
ou fermenté et salé)
Lotte
Colin, lieu noir
Loup (de mer)
Lingue
Lompe
Lompe
(salée ou demi-séchée)
Hareng
Morue salée
Saumon sauvage, d’élevage,
(frais, fumé, mariné
à l’aneth)
Truite
Omble Chevalier
Anguille
Coquille St. Jacques
Moule
Buccin
Langoustine
Crevette rouge
FISCH:
Schellfisch (Frisch leichtgesalzen
oder geräuchert)
Kabeljau, Dorsch
Heilbutt (klein, groß)
Steinbutt
Scholle, Goldbutt
Rotbarsch
Rochen (frisch oder
fermentiert)
Angler
Seelachs, Köhler
Katfisch
Leng
Seehase
Seehase
(gesalzen oder halbtrocken)
Hering
Gesalzener Kabeljau
Lachs, wild, gezüchtet,
(frisch, geräuchtet,
in Dill eingelegt)
Forelle
Seesaibling
Aal
Kamm-Muschel
Miesmuschel
Wellhornschnecke
Hummer, Languste
(Tiefsee)garnele

FISH
The rich fishing grounds around Iceland are the country’s most
valuable natural resource; marine products in fact account for
70% of the nation’s exports. Icelandic fish, caught in the fresh
and unpolluted waters of the North Atlantic, has established a
reputation for its superb quality and delicious taste world-wide.
Fish is the mainstay of the Icelandic diet, and fresh fish can be
had all the year round. In Icelandic restaurants, one discovers
the astonishing number of ways in which local chefs use fresh
fish as the means for creating the most imaginative gourmet
dishes. A special feature of Iceland are the many small fish
shops, though many supermarkets also offer a wide selection
of fresh fish. Wild salmon and trout can also be had over the
summer months, due to the popularity of angling as a sport.
ICELANDIC FOOD
79

ON CENTER MAP NO 9
CAFE HAITI BISTRO is a friendly and warm little
coffee house by the old Harbour in Reykjavík
Soup of the day - light meals
Quality coffee roasted on the premises
Live Music on weekends
CAFE HAITI BISTRO by the Old Harbour
Geirsgata 7b, 101 Reykjavík
tel: 661 5621 / 588 8484
www.cafe-haiti.com
Opening hours: 8.00 – 23.00

ON CENTER MAP NO 9
AUTHENTIC ICELANDIC FOOD
Our award winning Icelandic chefs renowned for
unique culinary handling of Icelandic seafood and meat
We welcome you to our romantic harbour-side restaurant
The Harbour restaurant • Geirsgata 7c, 101 Reykjavík
Tel. +354 511 2300 • www.hofnin.is

ON CENTER MAP NO 11

ON CENTER MAP NO 5
ON CENTER MAP NO 9

ON MAP NO 25
Seafood & Steakhouse
feast
Klappastíg 38 - 101 Reykjavík
Tel. 565 1188 - Fax. 565 5130
Vesturgata 4 - 220 Hafnarfjörður
Tel. 565 5522 - Fax. 565 5130
www.gamlavinhusid.is

FRUITS & VEGETABLES
Icelanders grow a lot of tasty garden vegetables, e.g. rhubarb,
cabbage, cauliflower and potatoes, of which people here eat
a lot. Vegetables and tropical fruits are also imported, making
a wide choice all the year round. In the autumn, Icelanders
like to gather wild berries, mainly crowberries and blueberries,
which are eaten fresh and also used to make jams and juices,
in particular the former. Geothermal energy is used to heat
greenhouses, especially for the growing of cucumbers,
tomatoes, green and red peppers, mushrooms and beautiful
garden flowers.
The diet of Icelanders has undergone rapid changes in recent
years. The consumption of fruit and vegetables has steadily
risen in line with increased information about their nutritional
value. The Iceland Nutrition Council keeps track of these
developments and confirms that Icelanders now consume
more than 32kg of fresh vegetables per inhabitant annually.
The figure for fresh fruit is nearly 45kg per person.
ICELANDIC FOOD
85

KJÖT:
LAMB
NAUT
SVÍN
FOLALD
HREINDÝR
LIST OF PRODUCTS
LIST OF PRODUCTS
LISTE DE PRODUITS • WARENVERZEICHNIS • PRODUKTFÖRTECKNING
Icelandic Meat
Læri
Lærissneiðar
Hryggur
Kótilettur/rifjur
Frampartur
Frampartsneiðar
Hamborgarhryggur
London lamb
Kjötfars
Kjöthakk
Lundir
Hryggvöðvi (filé)
Smásteik (gúllas)
Súpukjöt
Afturhryggsneið (T-bein)
Hamborgarar
Rifjasteik
Skinka
Beikon (flesk)
Saltkjöt
Reykt kjöt
Kálfasneið (schnitzel)
Hangikjöt
HÁLF- OG FULLUNNIN
KJÖTVARA
Pylsur og bjúgu
Niðursoðið kjöt
MEAT:
LAMB
BEEF
PORK
HORSEMEAT (FOAL)
REINDEER
Leg
Slices of leg
Saddle/rack
Cutlets/chops
Shoulder
Shoulder slices
Smoked saddle of pork
Lightly smoked lamb
Sausage meat (f. me atballs)
Minced meat
Tenderloin
Fillet
Boneless stewing meat
Pot stew meat (with bones)
T-bone steak
Hamburgers
Rib steak
Ham
Bacon
Salted meat
Smoked meat
Veal schnitzel
Smoked lamb
PREPARED MEAT
PRODUCTS
Sausages
Canned meat
VIANDE:
MOUTON (AGNEAU)
BOEUF
PORC
CHEVAL (POULAIN)
RENNE
Gigot
Tranches de gigot
Selle/Échine
Côtelettes
Épaule
Tranches d’épaule
Selle de porc fumée
Mouton légèrement fumé
Farce
Viande hachée
Filet
Faux-filet
Viande à ragoût
Viande à soupe
Côte de boeuf
Steak haché
Plat de côtes
Jambon
Lard fumé
Petit salé
Viande fumée
Escalope de veau
Viande de mouton fumée
PRODUITS À BASE
DE VIANDE
Saucissesetsaucissons
Viandes en conserves
FLEISCH:
LAMM
RINDFLEISCH
SCHWEIN
FOHLEN
RENTIER
Keule
Keulenscheiben
Rücken
Koteletts
Schulter
Schulterscheiben
Gerächerter
Schweinerücken
Leichtgeräuchertes Lamm
Wurstfleisch
Hackfleisch
FIlet
FIlet
Gulaschfleisch
Suppenfleisch
T-bone Steak
Hamburger
Rippenbraten
Schinken
Geräuchertes Speck
Salzfleisch
Geräuchertes Fleisch
Kalbsschnitzel
Geräuchertes Lamm
FLEISCHPRODUKTE
KJÖTTPROTUKTER
Wurstwaren
Fleischkonserven

MEAT
Iceland of fers a fine vari ety of meats: lamb, pork and beef,
as well as a limited am ount of hor se meat and reindeer. Meat
dis play counters are alwa ys well stocked with qu ality fresh
meat, handled by top class butchers. Shop refri ger ators and
freez ers carry a wide vari ety of con veni ent ly packa ged meat
prod ucts.
Iceland has strict reg ul ations relat ing to the hand ling and
stora ge of meat and the use of hor mo nes is strict ly for bidden.
Due to the risk of contam inations, the import of meat is
prohi bited. Sheep breed ing in Iceland goes back to the time
of settlem ent, which ex pla ins the nation’s high consum ption
of lamb. In keep ing with tra dition, sheep are all owed to graze
freely in mounta in ar e as over the sum mer, feed ing on the grass
and wild herbs that give Iceland ic lamb its dist inct i ve fla vo ur.
ICELANDIC FOOD
87

LIST OF PRODUCTS
LISTE DE PRODUITS • WARENVERZEICHNIS • PRODUKTFÖRTECKNING
Icelandic Specialities
88
ÍSLENSKUR
MATUR;
Svið
Sviðasulta
Hangikjöt
Blóðmör
Lifrarpylsa
Ýmis súrmatur
(blóðmör/lifrarpylsa/
hrútspungar/bringukollar/selshreifar)
Saltkjöt
Flatkökur, flatbrauð
Seytt rúgbrauð
Hákarl
Harðfiskur
Skyr
Ávaxtaskyr
ICELANDIC
SPECIALITIES:
Singed sheep heads
Sheep-head jelly
Smoked lamb
Bloodpudding
Liver pudding
Various soured meats
(bloodpudding/liver
pudding/ram Testicles/
breast of lamb/seal flippers)
Salted lamb
Rye pancakes
Cooked rye bread
Greenland shark
Dried fish
See description
Skyr with fruit
SPÉCIALITÉS
ISLANDISES:
Têtes de mouton roussies
Fromage de tête
Viande de mouton fumée
Boudin
Boudin de foie
Mets surs variés (boudin/
boudin de foie/testicules
de bélier/poitrine de mouton/
nageoires de phoque
Petit salé de mouton
Galettes de seigle
Pain de seigle cuit à la vapeaur
Requin du groënland
Poisson séché
Voir description
Skyr aux fruits
ISLANDISCHE
SPEZIALITUATEN:
Gesengte Schafsköpfe
Kopfsülze
Geräuchertes Lamm
Blutwurst
Leberwurst
Sauerspeisen (Blutwurst/
Leberwurst/Widderhoden/
Lammbrust/Robbenflossen)
Gesalzenes Lamm
Fladenbr. (Roggenpfannk.)
Gekochtes Pumpernickel
Haifisch
Trockenfish
Siehe Erklärung
Skyr mit Früchten

TRADITIONAL ICELANDIC FOOD
Iceland has age-old food traditions, associtated with the
autumn slaughtering season and the limited possibilities for
preserving the meat. Some of these traditions are still very
much alive today. The unique „súrmatur“ or whey-pickled
foods make up the so-called „thorramatur“, relished by
Icelanders, especially in the period from January to March.
„Seytt rúgbrauð“ (cooked rye bread), „harðfiskur“ (dried
fish) and „slátur“ (blood pudding) are common fare, while
„hangikjöt“ (smoked lamb) on „flatbrauð“ (rye pancakes) is
delicious at any time.
Do try some of these national specialities when in Iceland!
ICELANDIC FOOD
89

ON MAP NO 18
• Great selection of Icelandic cheese
• Taste the cheese and choose the best
• Selection of international cheese
• Catering services for all occasions
• Accompaniments and sundries
• Choice of cheese pies, soups at lunchtime
• We do catering services for all occations
Open: Mon. - Thu. 11:00 - 18:00, Fri. 10:00 - 18:30 and Sat .11:00 - 16:00
Seating on Lower Floor our Lunch offer Delicious
Icelandic Dishes and Soups from 11:30 - 13:30
Welcome to the Gourmet
and Cheese Store,
Skólavörðurstígur 8,
where the best of the
contemporary blends
deliciously with the
best from the past.
Skólavörðustígur 8
Tel: 562 - 2772
ostabudin@ostabudin.is
www.ostabudin.is

CHEESE AND BUTTER
The wide selection available is proof that cheese- and
butter-making is now a well-established and thriving art in
Iceland. Today there are over 89 types of cheese to be had,
including Icelandic variations of many internationally famous
cheeses. The rapid and very successful development of the
past decades now mean that the nation’s cheeses are equal
to, if not better than, foreign cheeses. Some Icelandic cheeses
have gone on to win international acclaim. Icelandic butter and
butter spreads come in various forms. In addition to butter
there is the popular “Smjörvi“ and “Létt og laggott“, which has
a mere 40% fat content (not suitable for frying). The success of
Icelandic cheese and butter is due no doubt to the high quality
standards and the fact that Icelandic milk is produced in a
natural environment untouched by pollution.
ICELANDIC FOOD
91

92
LIST OF PRODUCTS
LISTE DE PRODUITS • WARENVERZEICHNIS • PRODUKTFÖRTECKNING
Icelandic Birds
FUGLAR:
Rjúpa
Lundi
Reyktur lundi
Svartfugl
Villigæs
Aligæs
Kalkúni
Villiönd
Aliönd
Kjúklingur
Kjúklingabringa/ur
Kjúklingalæri
Unghæna
Unghani
Hænuegg
Svartfuglsegg
Andaregg
Gæsaregg
BIRDS:
Ptarmigan
Puffin
Smoked puffin
Guillemot
Wild goose
Farm-reared goose
Turkey
Wild duck
Farm-reared duck
Chicken
Breast of chicken
Leg of chicken
Young hen/pullet
Cockerel
Hen’s eggs
Sea-bird eggs
Duck’s eggs
Goose eggs
OISEAUX:
Perdrix des neiges
Macareux
Macareux fumé
Guillemot
Oie sauvage
Oie domestique
Dinde
Canard sauvage
Canard d’élevage
Poulet
Blanc de poulet
Cuisse de poulet
Poularde
Coquelet
Oeufs de poule
Oeufs de guillemot
Oeufs de canard
Oeufs d’oie
VÖGEL:
Schneehuhn
Papageientaucher
Geräucherter
Papageientaucher
Alke
Wildgans
Mastgans
Pute
Wildente
Mastente
Hähnchen
Hähnchenbrust
Hähnchenkeule
Junghuhn
Junghahn
Hühnereier
Alkeneier
Enteneier
Gänseeier

BIRDS & EGGS
Poultry farming is considerable in Iceland. The most common
types of bird reared are chicken, duck and turkey. National
consumption of poultry has been on the increase, no doubt the
result of the rapid growth in number of fast-food and oriental
restaurants. Over the centuries, Icelanders have acquired
a taste for sea birds, in particular guillemot and puffin,
which are caught on the steep cliff faces along the coasts.
In the spring the colourful eggs of these birds are collected
for consumption. Slightly larger than a hen’s egg, they are
considered a delicacy. Needless to say, your ordinary hen’s
egg is available at any time of the year.
ICELANDIC FOOD
93

ON CENTER MAP NO 18
THE BEST ORIGINAL CHICKEN OR BEEF
NOODLE SOUP IN ICELAND
Open daily 11.00 - 22.00
Skólavörðustíg 21a, 101 Reykjavík
Phone: 551 3199

Grensásvegur 12, 108 Reykjavik
Tel: +354 568 1919
www.tianmatur.is
Opening hour:
Monday - Friday 11 - 22
Saturday - Sunday 17 - 22
ON MAP NO 13

ON MAP NO 1
Visitors_guide_augl_97x130.fmx 5/11/06 9:58 AM Page 1

TRYGGVAGATA 14,
DOWNTOWN REYKJAVÍK
PHONE: 561 0039
ON CENTER MAP NO 9
RESTAURANT AND TAKEAWAY
AUTHENTIC THAI
FOOD SINCE 2001
LIKE THAI FOOD?
YOU’LL LOVE KRUA THAI
HOME DELIVERY
AVAILABLE!
www.kruathai.is
BÆJARLIND 14 - 16
KÓPAVOGUR
PHONE: 552 2525

ON CENTER MAP NO 17

Restaurant for over 30 years
Icelandic Cuisine
ON CENTER MAP NO 8
R e y k j a v í k
C e n t r e
Bankastræti 2 - 101 Reykjavík - Tel. 551 4430 info@laekjarbrekka.is - laekjarbrekka.is

HEALTH PRODUCT
GROWING IN THE PURE
ENVIRONMENT OF ICELAND
Dried Icelandic seaweed -
Sugar kelp, Kombu Royal -
Dulse, Palmaria palmata.
Icelandic Herbal Tea, blend of Angelica,
Birch and Iceland Moss -
Icelandic berry juice.
Icelandic organic herbal oils and bath product.
All our products are 100% natural with
no extra substances.
Our products are sold in Supermarkets,
Health Stores and Inspired by Iceland
at Keflavik Airport, Iceland
Our company has received an award from
The Federation of Icelandic Industries
for innovative and
orginal products
Íslensk hollusta
Skutahraun 7, 220 Hafnarfjordur, Iceland
Tel: 571 2512 / 864 4755 / 822 0512
islenskhollusta@islenskhollusta.is
www.islenskhollusta.is

The Vegetation of Iceland
The vegetation of Iceland is in many aspects
more different from that of other countries of
Europe than the flora. The nakedness of the
country is a very striking feature and great
areas may be characterized as deserts or
semi-deserts. After the settlements the
woods were cut for fuel and housing and
heavy grazing, often overgrazing, by the
livestock damaged the vegetation.
The only indigenous tree of importance is
the Birch (Betula pubescens), represented
by a subspecies. Here and there in the
Birch woods, however, individuals of Rowan (Sorbus acuparia) are found
scattered and Tea-leavedWillow (Salix phylicifolia) is common.
Due to the destruction of the woods large areas in the lowlands and
on the lower parts of mountain slopes are covered with heath and
grass vegetation of varius types. The grass vegataion often includes
herb species with beautiful flowers like the Lady’s Bedstraw (Galium
verum), the Alpine Cinquefoil (Potintilla crantzii), the Meadow Buttercup
(Ranunculus acris), The White Clover (Trifolium repens) and the
Autumnal Hawkbit (Leontodon autumnalis). Wood Cranisbill (Geranium
sylvaticum), Angilica (Angilica archangelica), some species of Lady’s
Mantle (Alchemilla),Dandelion (Taraxacum) and Hawkweed (Hieracium)
are usually dominating and a number of other species are often found
such as the Water Avens (Geum rivale), the Meadow –sweet (Filipendula
ulmaria) and the Wilde Angelica (Angelica silvestris).
The costal vegetation is very variable in accordance with the
heterogeneity of the substratum, ranging from clay to sand, pepples,
boulders and rock walls. Some of the costal species of vascular plants
are common around the coasts, like the Scurvy-grass (Cochlearia
officinalis), the Sea Sandwort (Honkenya peploides) and the Northern
Shore-wort (Mertensia maritima). The vegetation around hot springs and
in and along the courses of the warm water flowing from them is very
characteristic, as the Adder´s Tounge (Ophioglossum azoricum), the
Red Shank (Polygonum persicaria), the Marsh Pennywort (Hydrocotyle
vulgaris), the Water Speedwell (Veronica anagallis-aquatica ) and the
Marsh Cudweed (Gnaphalium uliginosum) are in Iceland only found
growing in warm soils and water. Iceland, situated on the boundary
of the Arctic and the Boreal Regions, has extremely interesting
phytogeographical position.
THE VEGETATION OF ICELAND
103

ON MAP NO 6
Open: Sun. - Thurs. 11:oo - 22:oo and Fri. - Sat. 11:oo - 23:oo

Wood crane’s bill. Daisies.
The flora of Iceland
The flora of Iceland includes about 470 species of indigenous
and naturalized species of vascular plants, including 37 species
of vascular Cryptogams, 1 Gymnosperm, nearly 290 species of
Dicotyledons and 145 species of Monocotyledons which is a rather
high percentage like in many northern countries. The character of
the Icelandic flora is distinctly North European or Scandinavian.
The western element of vascular plants in the Icelandic flora, or the
group of species with their main area of distribution west of Iceland
and not reaching the British isles or the European continent, is very
small, comprising only 8 species. The eastern element in the flora,
or the species with Eurasian area of distribution is about nine times
as big as the western one. Far the biggest element in the Icelandic
flora, however, is the circumpolar element.
Even if Iceland is often regarded as an Arctic country, it is situated
practically entirely south of the Arctic Circle, and the climate is
not an arctic one but a cold-tempered oceanic climate, Iceland
being an island in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. The paucity
of species of the flora of Iceland is therefore no reliable reflection
of the present climate of the country, but is mostly due to its
isolation and accordingly limited possibilities of dispersal of plants
from other countries during the relatively short time since the last
Pleistocene glaciation.
THE FLORA OF ICELAND
105

BONE
ON MAP NO 26
SURF’N TURF
LAMB
WHALE
RIB-EYE
PUFFIN
RIBS
WHALE
LAMB
SEAFOOD
T- BONE
FOIE GRAS
LOBSTER
LOBSTER
FOIE GRAS
Laugavegur 53b • 101 Reykjavík • Tel.: 511 3350 • www.hereford.is

Cuckoo flower. Violet.
The flora of Iceland
About half of these 470 species are regarded by most Icelandic
botanists as survivors of at least that last glaciation. Plants of
special interest to visitors from other European countries are those
western species indigenous to Iceland but not found in the British
isles nor on the European continent. Among the most conspicuous
of these plants are the following species: The Arctic Fireweed,
or River-beauty, (Epilobium latifolium), The Northern Green
Orchid (Platanthera hyperborea), The Broad-leaved Willow (Salix
callicarpaea) and the Lyngbye´s Sedge (Carex lyngbyei).
Plants of special interest to visitors from American countries,
on the other hand, are consequently the European and Eurasian
species of Iceland not found in the western hemisphere; some
of them do reach as far west as western Greenland while others
have their westernmost occurence in Iceland and only a few can
be mentioned: The Birch (Betula pubescens), The Rowan (Sorbus
aucuparia) and The Angelica (Angelica archangelica).
On the whole, Iceland, situated as it is in the Atlantic Ocean
between America and the European continent and on the boundary
of the Arctic and the Boreal Regions, has an extremely interesting
phytogeographical position.
THE FLORA OF ICELAND
107

ON CENTER MAP NO 12
ICELANDIC Fish, Lamb & Chicken in original
PAKISTANI curries,
TANDOORI dishes,
TANDOORI Nan breads,
Kebabs, Samosas,
Vegetarian
specialities specialities
PUNJABI LUNCH & PUNJABI DINNER
every day
P A K I S T A N I
TANDOORI & CURRY CUISINE
AUSTURSTRÆTI 4, 101 REYKJAVÍK 551 0292 WWW.SHALIMAR.IS

Black-tailed godwit. Ptarmigan.
Birdlife in Iceland
For the bird-watcher Iceland has many attract ions. Though,
despite popular op inion, not tru ly Arct ic, it has a fair sprinkling
of birds which come into this category. Another inter est ing
feat ure is that Iceland is the western most out post of a num ber
of Old World bird species and the eastern most of some New
World ones. In all some 300 bird species have been seen in
Iceland at one time or another, but of these only 73 have, up to
recent ly, been nest ing reg ul ar ly in the country.
Ten species have been recor ded breed ing ir reg ul ar ly.
There are 11 comm on passa ge migrants or wint er visitors and
a num ber of reg ul ar drift migrants while the rema in ing species
are accidentals. Bes ide the excit ing Arct ic and Amer ic an
species which can be obser ved in Iceland it is not so much the
num ber of species as the indi vi du al abund ance and tameness
of birds which makes Iceland a para d ise for bird-watchers.
This may be directly attributed to the fact that the size of the
human population is only 290,000 whereas the total area of
the country is 103,000 sq.km. This explains why so much of
Iceland is still unaffected by human activities and also why the
birds there have had greater chances of withstanding human
competition than in more densely populated countries.The
most celebrated of all Iceland ic birds is the Iceland ic falcon,
which in for mer times enjoyed a great reputa tion am ongst
falconers. The huge white-tailed eagle was for merly fair ly
comm on, but now it has been red uced to such an extent that
gra ve concern must be felt for its fut ure.
BIRDLIFE IN ICELAND
109

ON MAP NO 19
Open: Mon. - Tue.: 11am - 6.30pm
Wednesday: 11am - 5pm
Thurs. - Fri.: 11am - 6.30pm
Saturday: 12pm - 5pm
Sunday: closed

Artic tern. Puffin.
Birdlife in Iceland
Two species of owl in habit Iceland. The snowy owl, which
is extrem ely rare, was restrict ed to certa in wild parts of the
central hig hlands. The short-eared owl is found in low-lying
moor land and val leys. The short-eared owl preys on field-mice
and small birds, while the snowy owl, like the falcon,
usu ally preys on the pt ar mig an, which is the country’s only
gall inaceous bird and also its most import ant game bird.
The geese are repres ented in Iceland by two comm on nest ing
species and three passa ge migrants one of which is a rare
breeder.
Iceland has long been known as one of the major breed ing
haunts of wa ter fowl in Europe. The total num ber of breed ing
ducks wit hin limited area has been estimated to be somet hing
of the order of 20.000.
On the tower ing birdcliffs, which are occupied by a mix ed
ass embla ge of colon i al sea birds, the most import ant species
are the comm on guillemot, Brünn ich’s guillemot, the puffin, the
razor bill, the kitt iwa ke, and the fulm ar. The puffin is, however,
by no means strict ly a cliff-breed ing bird as it also forms
huge colon ies on lowlying grassy is lands. It is one of the
most comm on Iceland ic bird species with a population
runn ing into milli ons.
The comm on gull, the herr ing gull, the less er black-backed
gull, and the black-hea ded gull are new immigrants that have
colon ized Iceland in recent ye ars, chi efly af t er 1920.
BIRDLIFE IN ICELAND
111

ON MAP NO 29
Home of the Epic
Café & Restaurant
Laugavegur 73
101 Reykjavik
555-7373
www.73.is

THE SOUTH
– BLACK SAND
AND GLACI ERS
Glaci ers, lava fields, hot springs, black volcan ic sands and
fer tile farm land are all feat ures of the varied landscape of South
Iceland and there is a vast range of recr eational opportunities in
this reg ion which stretches from the hot-spring town of Hveragerði
in the west to the Vatna jök ull glaci er in the east.
Many of the classic tourist attract ions are in South Iceland:
Thing vell ir, the anci ent site of the Iceland ic parli ament, the
Alt hing; the massi ve Gull foss wa ter fall on the Hvítá river; the
Great Geys ir hot spring area; Mount Hekla, one of the world’s
most famous volcanoes, which has er upted three times in
recent ye ars and the anci ent bis hopric at Skál holt. The hot
springs in Hvera gerði and the green hou ses show inter est ing
app lications for geothermal heat.
113

ON MAP NO 25

THE WEST
– A NEW WORLD TO DISCOVER
Varied landscape, a range of geolog ical formations and many
opportunities for recr eation charact er ize this area. It is of
part icul ar inter est to orni t h o log ists, to hi kers, pony trekk ers,
those who want to get onto a glaci er and to anglers for it has
some of the country’s best salmon rivers. Is lands in Iceland’s
widest fjord, Breiða fjörður, which is on the west coast, can be
ex plor ed by boat trip from Stykkishólmur the largest town in the
area. The Snæ fells nes glaci er towers over the peninsula, and
lava fields at the foot of the glaci er tell us that long before the
settlem ent of Iceland there was a massi ve er uption und er the ice
cap. This still act i ve volcano was imm ortalised in Jules Ver ne’s
novel Jo ur n ey to the Centre of the Earth. Snjófell travel service
operates a well approved sightseeing tour to Snæfellsnes
glacier, including a snow scooter or snowmobil tour to the top
of the glacier. From there you will enjoy a spectacular view. A
unique experience. Overall clothing available.
115

ON CENTER MAP NO 9
Tryggvagata, by the old Harbour
in Reykjavík Center
Tel.: 511 1118
www.fishandchips.is

THE WEST FJORDS
– RUG GED BUT FRI END LY
This is very rug ged country and geolog ically one of the old est
parts of Iceland. The peninsula’s uneven coast line is cut by
deep fjords bounded by precipitous cliffs where roads, if they
ex ist, are oft en cut into the steep fjord slopes. The population
here is main ly con fined to the fis hing ports with many farms
hav ing been des erted because of their inacessi bility. Most of
the landscape is compos ed of cliffs and mounta ins with very
little soil, but on the mounta in plateaux and in the val leys the
hardy Iceland ic sheep find the grass and herbs that give the
meat its dist inct i ve fla vo ur. Fis hing ports flourish because of
their prox imity to the rich fis hing grounds off the nort hwest
coast. Comm un ications by sea and air are good and the
stand ard of liv ing in these ports is very high. Ísa fjörð ur bears
wit ness to a strong cultural tra dition. A modern hot el,
swimm ing pool and restaurants are am ong the excellent
facilities availa ble here.
117

ON MAP NO 28
OPEN 11.30-22.00

THE NORTH
– RICH IN CONTRASTS
Para dox ically one can oft en ex pect hig her tempera t ures in the
North in mid-sum mer than in the South. It is a question of wind
direct ion. A north wind over the country means cle ar we ather
in the South and a south wind means first rate weather in the
North and there’s less rain up there.
There are also more extrem es than in the South which
usu ally means more snow in the wint er and ideal conditions for
ski ent husi asts.
Ak ur eyri, the Capi tal of the North, has a fer tile hinter land
part icul ar ly suited to dairy farm ing, which along with sheep
farm ing, di atomite mining and of cour se the area’s
import ant fis hing ports, has made this a hig hly prosper ous and
well developed reg ional comm unity. There are excellent
hot els, top class restaurants, good comm un ications by road,
air and sea, and other public services and facilities. Ak ur eyri
is the centre for commerce and industry. It is also the cultural
centre of fer ing drama, music, art, local hi story museums,
and ed ucation at uni versity level.The rug ged north coast is
indented by a series of broad fjords which are oft en separated
by tower ing mounta ins. Ice floes and solit ary icebergs from
Green land can oft en be seen here close to land in ear ly sum mer
and there have been cases of pol ar be ars drift ing as hore.
119

ON CENTER MAP NO 9
S e a f o o d G r i l l F i e s t a
The Perfect Lobster soup
“The New York Times”
THE BEST BUY IN TOWN
“The Washington Post”
Opening Hours:
Summer 11.00 - 23.00
Winter 11.00 - 22.00
RESTAURANT
A Special Sea Product
BY THE OLD HARBOUR IN REYKJAVÍK CENTER
Verbúð 8, Reykjavík City Harbor · Tel. 55 3 1500 · www.saegreifinn.is

THE EAST
– COAS TAL SPLENDO UR
This is a mounta in ous area of relati vely little volcan ic act i vity with
deep fjords separated by high mounta in ridges. The scenery is
dramat ic with mounta ins reaching all the way to the sea. The
people of the fjord com m unities have relied on fis hing and
tra d ing throug hout the cent uries though there is fer tile farm land in
the broad valley at Eg ils stað ir, a town which has direct scheduled
flights from Germany in the summer and can be reached by air
from vari ous parts of Iceland. You can also get here by sea on
an international car ferry from Den mark and The Faroes, which
berths at Seyðis fjörður, a port only 30 km away from Egilsstaðir.
The area’s popula rity has led to a signi ficant incr e a se in
accomm odation and facilities in recent ye ars. From Eg ils stað ir
one can dri ve down to the in habited fjords where there are
thri v ing fis hing comm unities with modern services, camp ing
sites, comm unity centres, hot els and guest hou ses.
121

ON MAP NO 16
Scandinavian
Smørrebrød & brasserie
A delicious secret in the center of town.
Scandinavian offers a variety of dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
Our emphasis is on Icelandic and Nordic cuisine as well as
selected specialties from continental Europe.
Open mon. - thurs. 11:00 - 22:00, fri. - sat. 11:00 - 23:00, sun. 12:00 - 22:00
Laugavegur 22a, 101 Reykjvaík
Tel: +354 578-4888
info@scandinavian.is
www.scandinavian.is

THE WEST MAN IS LANDS
The West man Is lands are situ ated just off the south coast and
the main is land, Heima ey, has a population of about 5,000.
No port in Iceland reg isters big ger catches than this one and
the is land is simply buzzing with life. Here, there are some
tru ly spectacul ar sights. The is land ers have made their liv ing
from the sea from the days of the first settlers, the per fect natural
harbo ur and tall cliffs ten anted by multitudes of puffin, fulm ar
and guillemot being two import ant fact ors in this comm unity’s
prosperity. To this day local men hop ex pert ly from led ge to
led ge collect ing eggs, attached to a lifeline held by an anchor
man at the top of the cliff. A boat trip round the is lands
with their sheer basalt cliffs and er oded arches ris ing out of
the deep sea ex pla ins to the visitor why only one is land is
in habited.
123

LOACATED ON MAP NO
1. Reastaurant Argentína / Duvet store Dún og fiður
2. Hotel Hilton
3. Shopping Center Kringlan
4. Laugar Spa, World Class
5. Keramik Gallerí Kogga / Restaurant Fiskfélagið
6. Restaurant Hrói Höttur
7. Pizza Pronto / Jewelry Design Metal
8. Restaurant Lækjarbrekka
9.
Restaurant Sægreifinn / Café Haiti- Retaurant Höfnin / Restaurant
Fish and Ships / Restaurant Tapas Húsið,
10. Restaurant Jónmfrúin
11. Café Paris
12.
Restaurant Shalimar / Restaurant Einar Ben / Thorvaldsens Bazar
/ Jewelry Design Óli
13. Restaurant Tian
14. Reykjavík Excursions
15. Restaurant Caruso
16.
Scandinavian Restaurant / Restaurant Falcon / Jewelry Design
Gullkistan
17. Dubliener Bar
18.
Gourmet Store / Jewelry Design Anna María / Restaurant
Sjávargrillið / Gift Store Húfur sem hlægja / Thai Restaurant
19.
Hotel Frón / Restaurant Kaffigarðurinn / The Handknitting
Association Gift Store
20. Hotel Örkin
21. Restaurant Fish Market / Reykjavik City Museum
22. Galleri Fold
23. Eggert Furrier
24. Restaurant Þrír Frakkar
25. Janus búðin / Restaurant Gamla Vínhúsið
26.
Trip Touristinfo / J.S.Watchmaker / Restaurant Hereford /
Restaurant Kitchen Nepal / The Handknitting Association
27. Europ Car Rental
28. Restaurant Askur
29. Restaurant 73
30. Elding Whalewatching

REYKJVAÍK CENTER MAP
9
5
30
12
21 11
17
10
8 15
7
18
25
Frón
19
125

6
Hótel Saga
F
9
E
30
Air Iceland
Reykjavík airport
Reykjavík harbour
14
25 20
18
19 16
23
26
29
1
24
Nauthólsvegur
Hótel Loftleiðir
B
2

22
20
VIÐEY
3
2 28
Hótel Hilton
4
13
27

ON MAP NO 26
Nepalese & Indian Restaurant
THE NORTHERN MOST NEPALESE-INDIAN
RESTAURANT IN THE WORLD
We welcome you to our family restaurant.
Authentic to our roots. Executive Chef Deepak Panday
Laugarvegur 60a, Reykjavík, tel. 517 7795, 578 7788
For our latest offers see our website www.kitchen-eldhus.is

22:30
23:30
22:30
ON CENTER MAP NO 15

ON MAP NO 3
Reykjavík’s Largest
Shopping Centre
Claim your tax-free cash
refund at our service desk
for a refund of up to 15%
Monday to Wednesday 10–18.30, Thursday 10–21, Friday 10–19, Saturday 10–18, Sunday 13–18