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Reykjavik Holidays, Hotels & Travel Guide
Travel guide to hotels & holidays in Reykjavik
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Reykjavik Holidays Overview
A guide to holidays in Reykjavik - Back in the first century AD legendary Viking,
Ingolfur Arnarson, named the settlement he founded on a northerly
Atlantic peninsula Reykjavik, meaning 'Smokey Bay'. The smoke he
found wafting over the area, however, had nothing to do with
pollution, but rather the bubbling, boiling natural geysers and
geothermal springs that now underlie the modern capital of Iceland.
This source of heat and water has ensured that Reykjavik has no
need to burn fuels to warm its heart, and the crisp, clean air is
as beguiling as its clear blue skies.
The sky is
not always blue, however: the city receives more than its fair
share of rainy weather blown in from the sea, and during the long,
bleak winter its northern latitude ensures that the sun makes no
more than a brief appearance. Despite this, the
capital of Iceland is definitely a hot spot, renowned for its
lively pubs and clubs, which draw hundreds of merry-making
visitors, particularly during the long, light, bright summer
nights. It's growing reputation as a fun tourist destination is
enhanced by its fiery, friendly inhabitants, relaxed pace of life,
many cultural attractions and dozens of opportunities for
fascinating day trips, not to mention the novelty of bathing in one
of the steamy public geothermal swimming baths.
Reykjavik's setting on the southwest corner of Iceland on
Faxaflói Bay is another drawcard. All around are panoramic views of
the majestic Mount Esja, which rises up behind the bay, and vistas
across the Atlantic as far, on a sunny day, as the crystalline
Snaefellsjokull glacier to the west. The city
has a small town atmosphere, its centre easily explored on foot,
the quaint white-washed wooden buildings and colourful houses
interspersed with plenty of open space. Even
those who come to indulge mainly in the hedonistic nightlife cannot
fail to leave Reykjavik feeling refreshed and
rejuvenated.
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Reykjavik
holidays - Top Places To Go
1. Hallgrimskirkja
Skólavörðustígur
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What is it? The landmark church, the tallest building in
Iceland, dominates the city from its highest point, and is visible
on a sunny day from up to 10 miles (16km) away. Named for 17th
century Icelandic poet, hymn composer and clergyman, Hallrimur
Petursson, the church's unusual design represents volcanic basalt
columns flanking its towering steeple. It took nearly 40 years to
build the edifice, which was finally completed in 1986. In front of
the church stands a statue of Leif Eriksson, donated to Iceland by
the United States.
Hours of Operation: 9am to 6pm in summer, 9am to 5pm
winter
Phone: |
2. National Museum
Suðurgötu 41
www.natmus.is |
What is it? The recently refurbished National Museum of
Iceland is the best place to become acquainted with the folklore,
history and culture of this fascinating nation. The museum contains
around 3,000 artefacts, including medieval settlers' tools,
agricultural and nautical implements, ancient carvings and Viking
relics.
Hours of Operation: Tuesday to Sunday 11am to 5pm (16 September to 30
April); daily 10am to 5pm (May to 15 September)
Phone:530 2200 |
3. Botanical Gardens
Laugardalur 104
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What is it? The lush, green Botanical Gardens are a haven
for strollers and planted with a large collection of Icelandic
indigenous plants. Besides walking trails and water features, the
gardens have a greenhouse café open during the summer months, a
children's park and a zoo.
Hours of Operation:
Phone:553 8870 |
Reykjavik
holidays - Top Events
1. Reykjavík Marathon
From
To
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What is it? The event goes hand-in-hand with the
Reykjavik Cultural Night and although international attendance at
the marathon is still small, the overal cultural experience is
increasing in popularity every year. Apart from the marathon there
is a half-marathon, a six-mile (10km) run, and a two-mile (3km) fun
run.
Where is it? |
2. Reykjavík Cultural Night
From
To
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What is it? Throughout the night, the sun never sets on
the cities cultural celebrations in the form of music, live
performance and exhibitions. Shops and bars stay open later to
cater for the thousands who attend. The Reykjavik Marathon is run
in the morning and visitors from abroad are treated to a double
dose of what Reykjavik has to offer.
Where is it? |
3. Reykjavik Jazzfestival
From 2007-09-27
To 2007-10-01
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What is it? The Reykjavik Jazzfest is one of the most
popular for jazz enthusiasts, as the city itself, appears so well
suited to the bustling genre. Local and international acts populate
the city for the five days bringing in a variety from different
styles and various eras.
Where is it? |
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