south iceland
Transcription
south iceland
numbers refer to facility lists: 428 Swimming pool 428 Camping 428 Accommodation symbols SOUTH ICELAND brúarhlöð The South Iceland was in ancient times marked by Skeiðarársandur in the east to Herdísarvík in Reykjanesskagi in the west. Geologically the southern part of the East Country is part of the South Country and that division is used here. Austur-Skaftafell district extends from Lónsheiði to the black sands of Skeiðarársandur. Two fjords, Lónsfjörður and Papafjörður, cut into the coast towards the east, but the rest of the shore is harbourless, with lagoons behind sand reefs. Many glacial tongues creep down from the Vatnajökull cap and onto the lowland. There are many fast rivers, but few lakes. Basalt is the main rock type, but rhyolite occurs in many places, along with plutonic rock such as gabbro and granophyre. West of Breiðamerkursandur, palagonite takes over. The only geothermal spring is at the foot of Jökulfell by the Bæjarstaðarskógur forest. Öræfajökull, a glacier with the highest mountain peak in Iceland, is an active volcano. Most of the lowland is sands and glacial outwash, which offer little scope for vegetation, but there are wetlands in much of Hornafjörður and Suðursveit. Agriculture is the main occupation in this rural district, and a thriving town has developed at Höfn around fishing and fish processing, commerce and services. Once isolated by glacial rivers, this district has been linked up to the Ring Road with bridges and now enjoys excellent communi-cations. 180 AROUND ICELAND Vestur Skaftafell includes the lowland shore extending from Jökulsá á Sólheimasandi river to Skeiðarársandur, and the hinterland up to the glaciers. Harbours are nonexistent except in the very west of the district, where the Mýrdalsfjöll mountain range reaches the sea. Typically, broad lowland gives way to steep but low hills, where moorland takes over as far as Vatnajökull glacier cap. Mýrdalur valley, however, is narrow with steep mountainsides etched with deep gullies. Rivers abound, many of them powerful. There are no lakes in the inhabited areas, but Grænalón and Langisjór are two large ones in the uplands. Following warmer temperatures after 1920 there were great changes in the area and a lagoon, Jökulsárlón, began to form between Breiðamerkurjökull glacier and the sea. The lagoon is very deep and most of it was created after 1950. Large icebergs which have broken off the glacier float on the lagoon, giving it a majestic look. Jökulsárlón lagoon has become a popular tourist spot and has been used as a film location. Palagonite is the main rock type, but basalt also occurs. Lava is widespread from numerous central volcanoes, including Eldgjá (erupted 10th century), Lakagígar (1783) and Mt. Katla, which has erupted 16-20 times since the settlement. The only geothermal springs are at Hitulaug near Torfajökull glacier. The scant lowland vegetation is mainly lyme grass, with moss on the lava and marshland in many places. The main woods are at Núpsstaðarskógur, but shrub land is widespread. Communities have largely developed around services to agriculture, the main activity in the district. Rangárvellir lies between Jökulsá á Sólheimasandi and Þjórsá rivers. Its coastline is low and harbourless, but more mountainous contours emerge farther inland. The famous active volcano Mt. Hekla is the largest mountain in the district. Rivers are common, and are harnessed for hydroelec- Tourist Information in South Iceland Höfn-Hafnarbraut 36 T. 478-1500 Skaftafell-Skaftafellsstofa T. 470-8300 Kirkjubæjarklaustur- Kirkjuhvoll T. 487-4620 Vík-Brydebúð Víkurbraut 28 T. 487-1395 Hvolsvöllur-in Saga Centre - Hlíðarvegur T. 487-8043 Hella-Þrúðvangur 2 T. 487-5165 Þingvellir-Service Centre T. 482-2660 Selfoss-Publ.Library Austurvegur 2 T. 480-1990 Hveragerði –Tourist Information Centre in Shopping Centre Sunnumörk T. 483-4601 Þorlákshöfn-Publ. Library Ölfuss T. 480-3830 Vestmannaeyjar-the Museum House T. 481-3555 tricity towards the interior. Lakes are rare in the lowlands, but the Veiðivötn and Þórisvatn cluster inland rank with the biggest in Iceland. Palagonite and dolerite are the main rock types, and rhyolite and obsidian also occur. There are numerous Holocene central volcanoes and lava fields, which have flowed down to the lowland. Intense geothermal fields are found around Torfajökull glacier, but there are few hot springs in inhabited areas. The grassy lowlands of Rangárvellir strike a contrast with the scant upland vegetation, which has been severely eroded in places. Sheep farming predominates in the rural areas, with some horse breeding and potato cultivation.Two small towns have evolved around a variety of activities. Árnessýsla extends from Þjórsá to Herdísarvík, on the boundary with the southwest Reykjanes peninsula and across Mosfellsheiði heath as far north as Langjökull and Þórisjökull glaciers. Its north-ern boundary is at the watershed on the Highland route Kjölur.The shore has few bays. Lava has flowed into the sea in many places, creating skerries.Although good natural harbours are non-existent, a number of beaching points have been used since times of old. Continuous lowland characterizes the coastal parts of the district, with small hills, occasional mountains and low ridges and bluffs extending from the interior. Its many lakes include Þingvallavatn, the largest natural lake in the country. Palagonite and dolerite predominate, and rhyolite oc-curs too in Mt. Kerlingarfjöll, a popular interior skiing area. Most of its Holocene central volcanoes are in the interior, and lava covers large areas. Both high- and lowtemperature geothermal fields are widespread. Almost continuous vegetation covers the lowlands, with a great deal of marshland. Moorland and grass occur at higher altitudes, with shrub on the slopes. Marked erosion has taken place in the uplands, and a large stretch of sand lies from the Ölfusá estuary to Selvogur. Traditional farming predominates in rural areas, with greenhouse cultivation in geothermal parts. Several towns have developed, and three fishing villages are on the coast. - Hornafjörður Höfn is located on the headland between Hornafjörður and Skarðsfjörður fjords, and along with neighbouring communities forms the municipality of Hornafjörður. Settlement began late in the 19th century when Ottó Tuliníus moved his store from Papaós to Höfn. That building has now been restored and turned into a museum. Höfn has long been the trading centre for Austur-Skaftafellssýsla county.Within town limits is Ósland, a protected leisure area. Population 1,614. Facilities in Hornafjörður Police: Hafnarbraut 36, ( 470-6145. Tourist Information: Hafnarbraut 30, ( 478-1500, access to the internet, (also in library), [email protected] www.hornafjordur.is Accommodation: ***Hótel Höfn, Víkurbraut 24, ( 478-1240. Gh Hvammur, Ránarslóð 2, ( 478-1503, [email protected] www.hvammurinn.is Guesthouse Ásgarður, Ránarslóð 3, ( 478-1365. Youth Hostel Nýibær, Hafnarbraut 8, ( 478-1736. Náttból, chalets, Hafnarbraut 52, ( 478-1606. [email protected] www.campsite.is Birdlife in the South The South has many possibilities for birdwatchers. Extensive wetlands, seabird colonies, highland oases and wide, unusual beaches. The Westman Islands have the largest puffin colony in the world. There, nearly all seabirds nesting in Iceland, can be observed. Seabird colonies are also located at Dyrhólaey and Reynisfjall. At the mouth of Ölfusá river are the Ölfusforir mudflats and the Natural Reserve Flói, cared for by Fuglavernd - Birdlife Iceland. The shore at Stokkseyri and Eyrarbakki is not only the edge of the biggest lava flow which has occurred on earth after the Ice Age, but also a popular outdoor recreation area with rich birdlife all year round. Sogið river has unusually diverse birdlife. The Barrow’s Goldeney comes there in winter and Harlequin ducks are frequently seen there in summer. The Common loon nests at Lake Þingvallavatn. There are diverse wetlands in Biskupstungur at Tunguey, Pollengi and Hrosshagavík. Laugarvatn and Apavatn lakes are among the best places for observing ducks in the South. Other good wetland sites are at Grenlækur river and Steinsmýrarvötn in Meðalland, Skúmsstaðavatn lake in Landeyjar along with Oddflóð and Lambhagavatn in Rangárvellir. Two great highland oasis belong to the south, Þjórsárver under Hofsjökull glacier and Veiðivötn in Landmannaafréttur. Pink footed geese nest in both places, along with Common loons, Longtailed ducks, Scaups, Purple sandpipers, Snow buntings and other highland birds. 182 AROUND ICELAND Black-tailed Godwit. Great Skua. Experience the wonders of the Vatnajökull Region in Southeast Iceland. Largest glacier in the world outside the artic regions, and Europe’s largest National Park. Diverse possibilities of accommodation in the area. Delicious local food and the famous lobster of the region. Endless possibilities of recreation and adventure tours all year around • Snomobile and superjeep tours on Vatnajökull Glacier • ATV tours • Glacierwalks • Iceclimbing and icecave-excursions • Glacierwalks on glacier outlets • Glacier lagoon boat trips and excursions • Þorbergssetur Cultural center • Farm zoo at Hólmur • Birdwatching spring, summer and fall • Reindeer excursions, winter, spring and fall • Northern light tours www.visitvatnajokull.is Hafnarnes, ( 426-751/844-6175, [email protected] www.hafnarnes.is 750. Árnanes, Nesjar, ( 478-1550. 751. **Hótel Edda, Nesjaskóli, Nesjar, ( 444-4850, 752. ***Fosshótel Vatnajökull, Nesjar, ( 478-2555/562-4000, [email protected] www.fosshotel.is 753. Hoffell, Nesjum ( 478-1514/898-5614, [email protected] www.hoffell.com Camping Site: By Hafnarbraut 52, ( 478-1606, [email protected] www.campsite.is Restaurants/Snack Bars: Ósinn, Hótel Höfn, Víkurbraut 24, ( 478-1240. Humarhöfnin, Hafnarbraut 4, ( 478-1200/846-1114, [email protected] www.humarhofnin.is Hótel Edda, Nesjaskóli, Nesjar, ( 444-4850. Restaurant Nesjar, (summer only). Hafnarbúðin, Ránarslóð 2, ( 478-1095. Restaurant Víkin, Víkurbraut 2, ( 478-2300. Kaffi Hornið, Hafnarbraut, ( 478-2600. Fosshótel Vatnajökull, Nesjar, ( 478-2555. Bakery: Hornabrauð, Litlabrú 1, ( 487-2161. Leisure and Sport: Swimming pool, Víkurbraut 9, ( 470-8477. Golf, Silfurnesvöllur, 9 holes, ( 478-2197. Health Care Centre: Víkurbraut, ( 478-1400. Pharmacy: Lyfja, Hafnarbraut 29, ( 478-1224. For Motorists: Filling stations, garage, tyre repair. Car Rentals: Hertz/Icelandair Car Rental, ( 478-1250. Bílaleiga Akureyrar-National Car, ( 840-6071. Banks: Landsbankinn, Hafnarbraut 15, ( 410-4172, ATM also in Landsbankinn, Miðbær shopping mall. Sparisjóður Hornafjarðar, Hafnarbraut 36, ( 470-8700, ATM. Post Office: Hafnarbraut 21, ( 478-1100. State Alcohol Store: Miðbær, Litlabrú, ( 478-1977. Local Handicrafts: Handraðinn, Hafnarbraut 34, ( 478-1540. Museums/Exhibition: Byggðasafn Austur-Skaftfellinga, Hafnarbraut, ( 478-1833, folk museum, Maritime museum, open daily June 1- Sept. 1. The Glacier Vatnajökull - Exhibition, Hafnarbraut 30, ( 478-2665, open daily May 1-Sep. 30 from 9-21, internet-access, [email protected] www.is-land.is Culture Centre and Library, Litlabrú 2, ( 470-8050, access to the internet. [email protected] www.rikivatnajokuls.is Places of Interest in Höfn and vicinity: Hiking trails around Höfn. Ósland, nature reserve, bird life. Hoffellsjökull glacier, and nearby pearls of nature. Haukafell, a shrub-covered mount near a glacier. Coastal trips, Fjöruferðir, cruises around Hornafjörður and ATV trips on Suðurfjörur, [email protected] Sightseeing and Excursions: Glacier Jeeps, ( 478-1000/894-3133, Snowmobile and snowscooter tours to Vatnajökull. [email protected] www. glacierjeeps.is Vatnajökull Travel. ( 894-1616, daily trips Höfn, Jökulsárlón, Vatnajökull, June 1 –Aug. 31. Flugfélagið Ernir ( 562-4200, sightseeing flights June-August. [email protected] www.ernir.is Transportation: Flugfélagið Ernir ( 562-4200, scheduled air service to Reykjavík. Sterna, ( 551-1166, daily trips to Reykjavík in summer and 3 times weekly in winter, and to Egilsstaðir daily June 1-Aug. 31. www.sterna.is Events: July 3-4, Höfn in Hornafjörður, Lobster feast. A R O U N D I C E L A ND vatnajökull OPEN MAY - SEPT. - Tel: 478 2555 www.fosshotel.is - e-mail: [email protected] - In the kingdom of Vatnajökull z Lón (Lónssveit) is the easternmost area of Austur- Skaftafellssýsla and south Iceland. It is hailed for its great natural beauty. Mountains reach the sea on both sides; Austurhorn and Vesturhorn and Lónsvík lie between them. Long sandy rifts enclose the inlet and therefore Papafjörður and Lónsfjörður. The eastern part of Lónsfjörður is called Lón. The connections between Papafjörður and Lónsfjörður lie through Papós. Just south, there used to be a merchant village in 1863 but just before 1900 the shop moved to Höfn. Above the lagoons are far-stretching lowlands, mostly silt and mud brought by glacial river Jökulsá á Lóni.The river divides the district into Suður-Lón and Austur-Lón. Grassy valleys hide between barren and rugged mountains. From Lón you get to Hornafjörður through Almannaskarð. It features one of the most beautiful views in the country and currently a tunnel is being constructed there. The inhabitants of Lón were many at the end of the 19th century, almost 300, but now they count less than 50. Granite is the main rock type but in many places you can see liparite, gabbro and other rare rock types which bring a mysterious look to the mountains, making the area a true paradise for tourists. The colourful mountains in the innermost part of Lón are due to volcanic eruptions which occurred there some 9 million years ago.There is a road from Stafafell along the eastern part of the Jökulsá river up to the camping grounds at Smidjunes. The landscape is beautiful, featuring colourful rocks and trees. There are many summerhouses along this road. From Smidjunes lies a popular hiking trail up to Lónsöræfi and a walking bridge was constructed over Jökulsá in 2002 at Eskifell. A jeep trail runs from the highway up the muddy sands south of Jökulsá into Lónsöræfi. HAFNARNES GUESTHOUSE G 1 www.hvammurinn.is 50 0.2 2 G Ránarslóð 2 - 780 Hornafjörður 478 1503 - [email protected] www.campsite.is shore east of Vatnajökull glacier, with dramatic mountains gouged out by gullies and chasms. Vegetation is fertile and the landscape is richly coloured, dominated by rhyolite, and minerals are found in many places. Reindeer frequently enter Lónsöræfi from their habitat in the interior. A very interesting place to hike, with a hut on the route from Kollumúli to Snæfell. Protected area since 1977. z Borgarhöfn in Suðursveit. Just east of Borgarhöfn 0,5 www.humarhofnin.is [email protected] Hafnarbraut 4 · Höfn Tel. 478 1200, 846 1114 Open daily from May 1 - Oct 1 12-22 184 AROUND ICELAND 0,5 náttból Hafnarbraut 52 - 780 Höfn 478 1606 - Fax 478 1607 - [email protected] is Hálsaós estuary, where Hestgerðislón drains into the sea. Hálsar, the low cliffs at the estuary, were once an important fishing centre; people are said to have walked right across the glacier from north Iceland to work there. Fishing largely stopped in the area in 1575 when almost 100 men from 17 boats drowned in a single day. RESTAURANT guesthouse hvammur z Lónsöræfi. Extensive uninhabited area stretching in- z Vestrahorn. Mountain (454 m.) between Skarðsfjörður and Papafjörður, one of the few plutonic gabbro formations in Iceland. The name HUMARHÖFNIN means ‘the langoustine harbour’. All ingredients on the menu are locally sourced and couldn’t be any fresher. 2 781 Hornafjörður 426 7515, 844 6175 [email protected] www.hafnarnes.is 10 z Hali in Suðursveit. The birthplace of author Þórbergur Þórðarson (1889-1974). An educative centre has been set up here on his life and work. Miðbær 478-1800 Open weekdays 10-19 Sat. 10-18 Sun. 12-18 G hoffell travel service Hoffelli II - 781 Hornafjörður - 478 1514 898 5614 - [email protected] - www.hoffell.com 185 AROUND ICELAND z Öræfajökull. Iceland’s highest mountain, Hvannadals hnúkur (2119 m.), projects 300 m above this glacier on the southern side of Vatnajökull. It is a rhyolite formation and was first climbed, as far as is known, by a Norwegian surveyor and Jón Árnason from Fagurhólsmýri in 1813. Öræfajökull is a central volcano with a caldera 12 km in area, from which the glacier creeps down to the lowlands. The volcano is active and has erupted twice in historical times, in 1362 and 1727. Icelandic Mountain Guides organise walks to Öræfajökull glacier and other nearby areas. kvísker. z Jökulsá on Breiðamerkursandur. A short glacial Air tour of Vatnajökull AVAILABLE JUNE TO AUGUST Bookings & Information 478 1270 | Höfn Airport glacier river, only 1500 m long but very powerful. It drains from the Glacier Lagoon (100 m deep), where icebergs calve from Breiðamerkurjökull, part of the Vatnajökull glacial cap. Cruising among the icebergs is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the whole of Iceland. Jökulsá was a major obstacle to travel in the area and many people on foot opted to skirt the side of the glacier instead. A bridge was built in 1966-1967, but is in danger of being eroded by wave action. Due to climate changes and warmer temperatures this area went through great changes after the 1920ís. A lagoon, known as Jökulsárlón, began to form between the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier and a glacial ridge by the ocean. The lagoon is very deep and the greater part of it was formed after 1950. Large icebergs have broken off the glacier and these float on the lagoon, making it very impressive. Jökulsárlón has become a popular tourist spot and has been used as a location for Hollywood films, including James Bond. z Ingólfshöfði. Headland (76 m.) directly south of Eagle Air [email protected] www.eagleair.is Öræfajökull glacier, easy to reach from the northwest but blocked by sheer mountains elsewhere. It is named after Ingólfur Arnarson, the first settler of Iceland, who made land there and spent his first winter before moving along the coast to live in what is now Reykjavík. A teeming bird colony, especially puffin, is found on and around Ingólfshöfði, and there is a beautiful panoramic view along the shore. You can visit it from Fagurshólsmýri on a tractor with a hay wagon. GLACIER JEEPS WE ORGANIZE YOUR INCENTIVE TRIP • Exciting tours on the glacier Vatnajökull • Many years experience • Day trips offered 3-31/2 hours at 9:30 and 14:00, reservations necessary • The mountain hotel Jöklasel es located 840 m a.b.s. • Restaurant for 80-90 pers., sleeping bag acc. for 20 pers. • Magnificent view from the highest hotel in Iceland. HEIMUR HF. Bjarni S. Bjarnason Silfurbraut 15 • 780 Hornafjör›ur • Tel. 478-1000, 894-3133 www.glacierjeeps.is • [email protected] 186 AROUND ICELAND z Öræfi. District extending across the black glacial outwash sands from Breiðamerkursandur to Skeiðará river, and deep into the glacial interior. Its flourishing farming community was destroyed by a catastrophic eruption beneath Öræfajökull glacier in 1362. At least 24 farms were abandoned after the eruption and the resulting flood. The landscape in Öræfi is majestic and vegetation is richer and more diverse than in most parts of the country. With no harbours, Vatnajökull glacier behind it and roaring glacial rivers on either side, the district was relatively isolated until the rivers were bridged in 1967 and 1974, thereby completing the Ring Road around Iceland. Glacier Hiking Ice Climbing & Mountain Biking Tours Daily From Skaftafell National Park z Vatnajökull National Park, Skaftafell. Skaftafell was an ancient assembly site, first mentioned in Njál’s Saga. Skaftafell is a masterpiece of seemingly impossible contrasts of nature. Towering mountains, imposing glaciers, gulches with clear brooks and beautiful waterfalls, birch woods, a wealth of wild flowers and lush vegetation. The most majestic of its several waterfalls is Svartifoss (ìBlack Fallsî), plunging over a wall of symmetrical columnar basalt that recalls organ pipes. Beyond Mórsárdalur valley lies one of the largest birch forests in Iceland, Bæjarstaðaskógur. Some 210 higher plant species have been identified in Skaftafell, which is renowned for its frequent good weather. Excellent facilities for travellers at one of the countryís most popular outdoor spots. z Skeiðará is a vast glacial river that runs out from beneath Skeiðarárjökull glacier and spreads out over the eastern Skeiðarársandur sands. The river was a major obstacle in centuries past, and it was not until in 1974 that a bridge across it was constructed and the Ring Road around Iceland opened. Tremendous surges come in the river every few years, carrying large icebergs out onto the sands. The last major glacial surge was in November 1996, reaching its height at a volume of some 45,000 cubic metres per second. The surge destroyed the ring road and took out a bridge over Gígjukvísl, in the western part of the sands. Since then, smaller surges have come in the river, but have not caused substantial damage. Walking paths in Skaftafell. There are no roads in the Skaftafell area, except to the farm; marked paths lead from the car park by the campsite. Visitors are free to explore the park as they please, but are expected to follow marked paths where there are any. Information plaques are next to the paths about the vegetation, and a paved walking path leads up to Skaftafellsjökull glacier, allowing for easy access for disabled people. Park wardens now provide interesting guided tours, advertised in the service centre, Skaftafellsstofa. The centre also houses an interesting 187 AROUND ICELAND www.glacierguides.is [email protected] +354-571-2100 760 60 60 4 exhibition of the nature and life in the area. Some examples of hikes are the gully route to Svartifoss waterfall, which takes 2 hours, and to the rock Sjónarsker or to the rim of Skaftafellsjökull glacier. Worthwhile places to head for on longer hikes (4-8 hours) include Kristínartindar, the source of Skeiðará river, or the Bæjarstaðarskógur forest. - In the kingdom of Vatnajökull - Facilities G S HROLLAUGSSTAÐIR Gerði - 781 Höfn ✆ 846 0641 - 478 1905 - Fax 478 1905 - [email protected] 760 40 30 19 13 km east of Jökulsárlón G gerði Suðursveit - 781 Höfn, Hornafjörður 846 0641 - 478 1905 - [email protected] 763 *42 *42 visit iceland www.hali.is G Tourist Information: Skaftafellsstofa, Skaftafell in Vatnajökull National Park, ( 470-8300, open all year, [email protected] www.vatnajokulsthjodgardur.is/ Accommodation: 780. Mountain Hut, Lónsöræfi, ( 568-2533. 745. Youth Hostel Stafafell, Lón, ( 478-1717. 754. Brunnhóll, Mýrar ( 478-1029. 754. Hólmur, Mýrar, ( 478-1037/478-206/861-5959, 756. Skálafell, Suðursveit, ( 478-1041, 756. Smyrlabjörg, Suðursveit, ( 478-1074. 757. Youth Hostel Vagnsstaðir, Suðursveit, ( 478-1567/1048. 759. Travel Service, Lækjarhús, Suðursveit, ( 478-1517, [email protected] 760. Hrolllaugsstaðir/Gerði, Suðursveit, ( 478-1057/1905/846-0641, [email protected] 761. Brunnavellir, Suðursveit, ( 478-1055/1056. 763. Guesthouse Hali, Suðursveit, ( 478-1073/867-2900. [email protected] www.hali.is 770. Litla-Hof, Öræfi, ( 478-1670. 771. Hof, Frost og funi, Öræfi, ( 478-2260. 771. Vesturhús, Hof, Öræfi, ( 857-2235, [email protected] 775. Fosshotel Skaftafell, Öræfi , ( 478-1945. skaftafell @fosshotel.is www.fosshotel.is 776. Bölti, Öræfi , ( 478-1626. Camping Sites: 745. Stafafell in Lón, ( 478-1717. 754. Haukafell, Mýrar. 760. Hrolllaugsstaðir/Gerði, ( 478-1057/1905. 772. Svínafell, Öræfi, ( 478-1765. 775. Freysnes, Öræfi, ( 478-1945. 11.00 - 18.00 guesthouse hali UniqUE AdVEntUrE bOAt tripS On thE GlACiEr lAGOOn Suðursveit - 781 Hornafjörður 478 1073, 867 2900 - [email protected] Þórbergssetur - Hali Suðursveit JökUlSárlón Cruises on the glacial lagoon at the root of Vatnajökull Europe´s biggest glacier. A unique scenicadventure with outstanding photographic opportunities. Museum – Exhibition – Restaurant Cultural Heritage Museum Restaurant with local food Open May 1 - Oct. 15 from 9-21 Tel. 478-1078/867-2900 [email protected] SALVATION ARMY Guesthouse, Kirkjustræti 2, 101 Reykjavík Tel.(+354) 561 3203 Fax.(+354) 561 3315 50 rooms sleeping bag acc. Family rooms. Breakfast. Open all year. 188 AROUND ICELAND Open daily from May 15th to Sept. 15th Glacier lagoon | tel (+354) 478 2222 [email protected] | www.jokulsarlon.is A R O U N D IC EL A N D skaftafell OPEN FEB. - NOV. - Tel: 478 1945 www.fosshotel.is - e-mail: [email protected] 776. Skaftafell, Öræfi, ( 470-8300. Restaurants: Smyrlabjörg, Suðursveit, ( 478-1074. Hrolllaugsstaðir/Gerði, Suðursveit, ( 478-1057/1905. Þórbergssetur, Hali, Suðursveit, ( 478-1078/867-2900. Jöklasel, Vatnajökull, Suðursveit, ( 478-1000. Jökulsárlón Suðursveit, ( 478-2122. Fosshótel Skaftafell, Öræfi, ( 478-1945. Restaurant/Cafeteria and shop Skaftafell, in the National Park, ( 470-8308. Leisure and Sport: 754. Hólmur á Mýrum, Farmzoo, ( 478-1037/861-5959. For Motorists: Filling station, Skaftafell, ( 478-2242. Museum/Exhibition: Þórbergssetur, Hali, Suðursveit, ( 478-1078/867-2900. The wondrous world of author Þórbergur Þórðarson. Open June 1-Sep. 15 from 9-21 and Sep. 16-May 31 from 12-17. The Service Centre-Gestastofan in Skaftafell, ( 470-8300, open May 1 - Sept. 30, Vatnajökull Exhibition, nature, history, culture, video. Exhibition on the eruption in Vatnajökull in 1996. Places of Interest and Hikes: Stafafell, ( 478-1717, hikes around Lónsöræfi. Cruises on Jökulsárlón, Breiðamerkursandur, ( 478-2222/ 851-1822, Open daily May 15. – Sep. 15.. [email protected] www.jokulsarlon.is Guided hikes from Service Centre, Skaftafell, ( 478-1627. Icelandic Mountainguides, ( 894-2959, guided glacier hikes in June,July and August, www.mountainguide.is Glacierguides í Skaftafelli, ( 659-7000, glacier hikes with guides, [email protected] www.glacierguides.is Öræfaferðir/From Coast to Mountain, ( 899-6488 Daily tours exept Sun. to Ingólfshöfði on tractor and haycart, in June-Aug. ( and hiking tours on Vatnajökull. Kynninsferðir, ( 580-5400, twice daily (June 15-Sept.9) from Skaftafell to Jökulsárlón. Daily tours (July 1-Aug. 31) from Skaftafell to Lakagígar. Daily tours (June 15-Sept.9) to Eldgjá and Landmannalaugar. Staðarfjall í Suðursveit, once home to distinguished author Þórbergur Þórðarson (1889-1974). Marked walking trails from reforestation area beneath the mountain to Klukkugil. Fláajökull, marked hiking trails. Events: June, Midsummer bonfire in Skaftafell National Park. August: Fireworks at Jökulsárlón. GLACIER WALKS DAY TOURS FOR ALL Vatnajokull National Park Iceland’s Highest Summit Magical Surroundings Glacier Adventures Ice Climbing mountainguides.is Vesturhús Hof Öræfasveit Sleeping bag accommodation Tel 474-1200 GSM: 862-0890 email: [email protected] Information and booking: Icelandic Mountain Guides’ sales Cabin Tel: +354 894 2959 Reykjavík Office: +354 587 9999 189 AROUND ICELAND - Skaftárhreppur z Núpsstaður. Old church farm where travellers on horseback used to collect a guide before crossing the sands and lakes. Part of the little turf-built chapel dates from the 17th century. The farm and meadow are a splendid example of the old landscape in which the Icelanders lived and worked before the mechanical age. The farmland includes Núpsstaðarskógur, an area of thick shrub on the slopes of Mt. Eystrafjall, near Lake Grænalón. z Dverghamrar “Dwarf Cliffs” are peculiar twin co- lumnar basalt cliffs forming a horseshoe shape in AusturSíða, just east of the farm Foss down from the Ring Road. The Dverghamrar landscape was formed by wave action when the sea level was higher at the end of the Ice Age. The cliffs are a protected natural site. z Kirkjugólf. Rock formation near Kirkjubæjarklaustur was once thought to be the floor of an ancient church, as its name indicates. Geologists believe that this is the top of a columnar basalt cluster, exposed by the action of the sea, to give the appearance of a tiled floor. Protected natural site. - Kirkjubæjarklaustur Kirkjubær is a village on a farm and church site in Síða, previously called Kirkjubæjarklaustur. According to the Book of Settlements, Irish monks were the first settlers. There was a convent at the site from 1186 until the Reformation. Various folk tales are associated with the convent, such as the one about Systrastapi (ìSistersí Rockî), located near the west hay-field at Kirkjubær. There was a church at Kirkjubæjarklaustur until 1859, and the local cemetery contains the grave of Jón Steingrímsson (1728-1791), the local vicar at the time when the Skaftá eruption occurred. On 20 July 1783 he delivered his famous sermon that is believed to have convinced God to stop the flow of lava before it reached Systrastapi. In 1974 a new chapel was consecrated in his memory. Kirkjubæjarstofa is a new cultural and research centre. Population 125. kirkjubæjarklaustur. www.klaustur.is Kirkjubæjarklaustur - Facilities Police: Iðjuvellir 7b, ( 488-4110. Local Tourist Information: Kirkjuhvoll Community Centre, Information all year, ( 487-4620, fax 487-4842, [email protected] [email protected] www.klaustur.is Accommodation: ***Icelandair Hotel Klaustur, ( 444-4000/487-4900, Community Centre Kirkjuhvoll, ( 487-4621/4840. 800. Youth Hostel Hvoll, ( 487-4785, [email protected] www.hvoll.net 801. Islandia Hotel Núpar, ( 517-3060, 802. Hörgsland I Travel Service, ( 487-6655. 803. Hotel Geirland, ( 487-4677, [email protected] www.geirland.is 804. Hótel Laki, Efri-Vík, ( 487-4694, [email protected] www.hotellaki.is 807. Hunkubakkar, ( 487-4681/865-2652, [email protected] www.hunkubakkar.is 808. Eldvatn, Meðalland, ( 557-6100. 811. Hólaskjól við Fjallabaksleið North, ( 855-5812/855-5813/487-1447, [email protected] 812. Community Centre Tungusel, ( 487-1427/487-1354, [email protected]. 813. Flaga, ( 487-1368. 814. Hrífunes, ( 770-0123, cottages. 816. Nonna and Brynjuhús, Þykkvabæjarklaustur, ( 487-1446/849-7917, [email protected] 816. Community Centre Herjólfsstaðir, ( 487-1390/4840. Camping Site: Kirkjubær, ( 487-4612. 802. Hörgsland, ( 487-6655. 806. Kleifar, ( 487-4675, near Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Restaurants/Snack Bars: Icelandair Hotel Klaustur, ( 487-4900. Systrakaffi, Klausturv. 13 ( 487-4848, [email protected] www.systrakaffi.is Skaftárskáli, ( 487-4628, [email protected] Leisure and Sport: Swimming pool, ( 497-4856 in summer, ( 487-4840 in winter. Golf, Efri-Víkurvöllur, 9 holes, ( 487-4694. Hótel Laki, Efri-Vík, fitness centre, sauna. Information on angling, hiking and sightseeing at the Tourist Information Centre, ( 487-4620. Hiking maps available. Health Care Centre: Skriðuvellir 13, ( 480-5350/5355. For Motorists: Filling station, ( 487-4628. Garage, tyre repair, ( 487-4630. Banks: Arion Bank, Klausturvegur 13, ( 488-4070, ATM. Post Office: Klausturvegur 13, ( 487-4616. Food Store: Kjarval, Klausturvegur 13, ( 487-4616. Local Handicrafts: Klausturhólar at Klausturvegur, ( 487-4767/867-2915. Museums/Exhibition: Kirkjubæjarstofa, ( 487-4645, [email protected] www.kbkl.is Efri-Vík, ( 487-4694, old farm machinery, barn museum. Sightseeing and Hiking: Kynnisferðir, ( 580-5400, daily trips to Lakagígar July 1–Aug. 31, to Eldgjá and Landmannalaugar June15 –Aug. 31. Transport: Sterna, ( 551-1166, daily scheduled coach service to Reykjavík and Höfn, www.sterna.is Events: Aug. 6-8, Chamber Music Festival. 190 AROUND ICELAND SKafTárHrEPPur KIrKjubæjarKLauSTur WHEN you WaNT To ENcouNTEr THE ELEmENTS; THE EarTH, WaTEr, aIr aND fIrE Did you know that in London 476.100 people have to share each 100 km2? If you want something different, how about visiting Skaftárhreppur, where the same amount of land is shared by only 7 people? We offer you our services in local farms and in the village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Here you will find some of Iceland´s natural treasures, Eldgjá, Langisjór and Lakagígar, to name only a few. It´s an area where earth and people have been shaped by fire, wind and water. Skaftárhreppur is a gateway to the southeast and a part of Vatnajökull National Park, the largest National Park in Europe. The place to be when you´re in your element. Travel service Geirland 880 Kirkjubæjarklaustur accommodation, restaurant. Tel. 487 4677. [email protected] Hotel Laki Efri-Vík 880 Kirkjubæjarklaustur accommodation, restaurant. Tel. 487 4694. [email protected] | www.hotellaki.is Travel service Hunkubakkar 880 Kirkjubæjarklaustur accommodaton, restaurant. Tel. 487 4681. [email protected] | www.hunkubakkar.is Skaftárskáli by Skaftárbrú 880 Kirkjubæjarklaustur Petrol, restaurant. Tel. 487 4628 | [email protected] Nonna og Brynjuhús Þykkvabæjarklaustri 880 Kirkjubæjarklaustur | Accommodation Tel. 487 1446 | 849 7917 [email protected] Restaurant Systrakaffi Klausturvegur 13 | 880 Kirkjubæjarklaustur Tel 487 4848 | [email protected] www.systrakaffi.is Icelandair Hótel Klaustur Klausturvegur 6 - 880 Kirkjubæjarklaustur accommodaton, restaurant. Tel. 487 4900. [email protected] | www.icehotels.is Youth Hostel Hvoll 880 Kirkjubæjarklaustur Accommodation, cooking facilities. Tel. 487 4785. [email protected] www.hvoll.net Kirkjubæjarstofa Klausturvegur 2, 880 Kirkjubæjarklaustur Museum/Exhibition. Tel. 487 4645. [email protected] | www.kbkl.is - Vík í Mýrdal Vík, a trading post since 1887. The natural surroundings in Vík are exceptionally beautiful and the climate is relatively mild. The bird life is diverse and there are good conditions for bird watching. A vast variation of flowers and herbs grows to the east of Mt. Reynisfjall. The area is perfect for exploration and there are many lovely walking and hiking paths in Vík and the surrounding areas. Population 311. z Hjörleifshöfði “Tuff island” (221 m) on the south- west of Mýrdalssandur. This was a coastal headland until the 14th century, when the shore began to advance as deposits piled up after glacial floods from Mt. Katla. Hjörleifshöfði (“Hjörleifur’s Headland”) is named after first settler Ingólfur Arnarson’s foster-brother, who was killed by his slaves during their first year in Iceland. Hjörleifshöfði, the product of a submarine eruption during an Ice Age interglacial, was inhabited up until this century. z Mýrdalsjökull Glacier 595 km2 in area, 1493 m. Glacial tongues creep down from it to the lowlands, the most prominent being Sólheimajökull, close to the Ring Road. Under the south eastern side of the glacier is Katla, an active central volcano with a caldera up to 10 km in diam-eter. On average, Katla has erupted at intervals of 40-80 years, melting the glacial cap and causing catastrophic floods that sweep glacial debris across the entire sands. Some 16 Katla eruptions have been recorded in historical times, but there have probably been 20 in all.The last eruption of Katla was in 1918, but did not cause significant damage. z Dyrhólaey Sheer promontory (120 m). It rises towards the sea west of Reynishverfi, the southernmost point of the mainland and home to rich bird life. A narrow point called Tóin juts out into the sea, with an opening in it large enough to be passable by boats. Dyrhólaey is thought to have been formed during a later interglacial period in a submarine eruption resembling that which created Surtsey. Off the promontory are several rock stacks, the highest of which is Háidrangur (56 m). Facilities in Vík Police: Ránarbraut 1, ( 488-4310/853-5876/854-0961. Tourist Information-Vík: Brydebúð, Víkurbraut 28, ( 487-1395, [email protected] Accommodation: ***Hótel Edda Plus, Vík, Klettsvegur, ( 444-4840. Hótel Vík by Klettsvegur, ( 487 1480. Hótel Lundi, Víkurbraut 26, ( 487-1212, [email protected] Gh. Ársalir, Austurvegur 7, ( 487-1400. Gh. Norður-Vík, Suðurvegur 5, ( 487-1106. Hötturinn, cottages by Klettsvegur, ( 487-1345. Camping Site: By Klettsvegur, ( 487-1345. Restaurants/Snack Bars: Halldórskaffi, Víkurbraut 28, ( 487-1202. Víkurskáli, restaurant Ströndin, Austurvegur, ( 487-1230. Ársalir, ( 487-1401/1400. Hótel Lundi, ( 487-1212. GISTINGAR - ACCOMMODA TION - U NTERKU NFT Leisure and Sport: Golf, ( 862-5111. Sport Centre/Swimmingpool, Mánabraut 3, ( 487-1174. Katratrack – Travel service, at Víkurskáli, ( 849-4404, glacier hikes a.m. Information on angling, horse rentals and more at the Tourist Information Centre, ( 487-1395. Health Care Centre/Pharmacy: Hátún 2, ( 480-5340/480-5344. For Motorists: Filling station, garage, tyre repair. Bank: Arion banki, Ránarbraut 1, ( 488-4050. Post Office: Austurvegur 15, ( 487-1100/487-1510. State Alcohol Store: Víkurskáli, ( 487-5730. Local Handicrafts: www.hofdabrekka.is Víkurprjón, Austurvegur 20, ( 487-1250. Leirbrot og gler, Bakkabraut 6, ( 487-1231/849-1224. Museum/Exhibition: 62 Brydebúð, Culture124 Centre, ( 487-1395. Sightseeing and Hiking: The Church in Vik, ( 487-1118. Marked hiking trails, Tourist Information, ( 487-1395. 5 Transport: Sterna, ( 551-1166, daily scheduled coach service to Reykjavík and Höfn, www.sterna.is utiFul SurroundingS Family Friendly Village in Bea TOURS 0,5 22 14 DAY TOURS FOR ALL ÁRSALIR Austurvegur 7 - 870 Vík Glacier í Mýrdal G on Myrdalsjokull 487 1400, 866 7580 - [email protected] www.hoteledda.is Glacier Walks Ice Climbing Wonderland of Ice Sculptures 62 31 Höfðabrekka - 871 Vík í Mýrdal 487 1208 - Fax 487 1218 - [email protected] H 25 0,3 COUNTRY HÓTEL HÖFÐABREKKA 31 31 0,1 20 HÓTEL EDDA VÍK Í MÝRDAL 1 VÍK Í MÝRDAL ADVENTURE 16 Aning_P054-067 -´08 9.12.2008 14:03 H v/Klettsveg - 870 Vík 444 4840 - Fax 444 4841 - [email protected] Page 59 1 4 1 hótel lundi Víkurbraut 26a - 870 Vík 487 1212 - [email protected] H GISTINGAR - ACCOMMODATION - UNTERKUNFT 820 GISTIHÚSIÐ GÖRÐUM Garðar, Mýrdal - 871 Mýrdalshreppur 487 1260 www.hofdabrekka.is 124 mountainguides.is 62 5 country hotel höfðabrekka Mýrdalshreppur - Vestur-Skaftafellssýsla - tel.: 487-1210 - www.vik.is 192 AROUND ICELAND Höfðabrekka - 871 Vík í Mýrdal H 487 1208 - Fax 487 1218 - [email protected] Information and booking: Information Center Fossbúð, Skógar Tel: +354 894 2956 Reykjavík Office: +354 587 9999 www.south.is 193 AROUND ICELAND 59 - Mt. Eyjafjöll - Facilities in the countryside Accommodation: 820. Hotel Höfðabrekka, ( 487-1208, [email protected] www.hofdabrekka.is 823. Guesthouse Garðar, ( 487-1260. 823. Guesthouse Reyni, ( 487-1434. 825. Hótel Dyrhólaey, ( 487-1333/1420. 827. Travel Service Vellir, ( 487-1312/849-9204, 827. Travel Service Steig, ( 487-1324/868-7651. 829. Travel Service Eystri- Sólheimar, ( 487-1316. 829. Sólheimahjáleiga, ( 487-1320. Camping Site: 819. Þakgil in Höfðabrekkuheiði, ( 853-4889, cottages. Leisure and Sport: Travel Service Vellir, ( 487-1312/849-9204, horse rental Sightseeing and Excursions: Arcanum, Ytri-Sólheimar, ( 487-1500, snowmobile trips onto Mýrdalsjökull glacier, ATV vehicle, www.snow.is Dog sledding, on Mýrdalsjökull glacier, ( 487-7747. Katratrack – Travel Servie, at Víkurskáli, ( 849-4404, clacier hikes a.m.. Dyrhólaey Tours, ( 487-8500/893-6800, boat tours on sea and land, with a guide, www.dyrholaey.com Ferðafélagið, ( 869-0170, guided hikes. Ferðaþjón. Höfðabrekka, ( 487-1208,jeeps tours. Camping Site Þakgil, ( 853-4889, guided hikes. The Fagradalsbleikja Fish Farm, ( 487-1105, tourists are welcome to visit the fish farm. z Skógar. Beautiful natural surroundings, summer accom-modation facilities and one of the finest folk museums in Iceland, with an outstanding collection of old farm implements and household articles in a new exhibition building and turf-built houses. Skógafoss waterfall, 60 m high, is one of the most impressive in the country and the final in a series of 20 on Skógaá river from its source at Fimmvörduháls on the mountains overlooking the area. According to legend, the first settler at Skógar, Þrasi, hid a chest of treasure in a cave beneath it. z Eyjafjallajökull Glacier. A capped volcanic cone (1666 m) with a crater 3-4 km wide, produced by numerous eruptions from the middle of the Ice Age to the Holocene. The glacier covers an area of 100 km2. During the last eruption, in 1821-23, the ice melted and caused a glacial burst which flooded the entire lowland between Eyjafjöll and Fljótshlíð. z Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfurárfoss. Seljalandsfoss is a narrow but high waterfall, plunging over the mountainside of West Eyjafjöll. A path lies at the bottom of the cliff where it cascades down, offering a safe and easy opportunity to walk behind the waterfall and out the other side. Just north of it the river Gljúfurá (Hamragarðsá) cascades over the mountainside in another waterfall. Welcome to the Skógar Folk Museum Opening hours: Summer: daily 09:00-18:00 Winter: daily 11:00-16:00 194 AROUND ICELAND numbers refer to facility lists: 428 Swimming pool 428 Camping 428 Accommodation symbols Folk Museum • Transport Museum • Museum Shop • Café Skógar ( 487 8845 - www.skogasafn.is - [email protected] 195 AROUND ICELAND - Rangáþing Eystra - Eyjafjöll - Facilities Accommodation: 830. **Hotel Edda, Skógar, ( 444-4830, 830. Youth Hostel Skógar, ( 487-8801/899-5955. 830. Hótel Skógar, ( 487-8988. [email protected] www.hotelskogar.is 832. Drangshlíð I, ( 487-8868. 836. Guesthouse Edinborg, ( 487-8011. 837. ***Country Hotel Anna, Moldnúpur ( 487-8950/ 899-5955, [email protected] www.hotelanna.is 837. Skálakot, ( 487-8953. 837. Ásólfsskáli, ( 487-8952. 841. Stóra Mörk III Travel Service, ( 487-8903. 842. Básar, Þórsmörk, ( 562-1000/893-2910. 842. Húsadalur, Þórsmörk, ( 562-1011, [email protected] www.thorsmork.is Langidalur, Þórsmörk, ( 893-1191/568-2533. Camping Site: 830. Skógar, ( 487-8824. 833. Skálagisting Fimmvörðuháls, ( 562-1000. 838. Hamragarðar, ( 487-8920. 842. Húsadalur, Þórsmörk, ( 552-8300/894-1506, [email protected] www.thorsmork.is 842. Básar, Þórsmörk, ( 562-1000/893-2910. 842. Langidalur, Þórsmörk, ( 893-1191/568-2533. Restaurants/Snack Bars: Hótel Edda, Skógar, ( 444-4830. Drangshlíð1, ( 487-8868. - Önnuhús, Moldnúpur, ( 487-8950. Skógakaffi, Folk Museum Skógar, ( 487-8845. Fossbúð, Skógar. Húsadalur, Þórsmörk, ( 552-8300/894-1506. Leisure and Sport: Details on angling, horse rentals etc. at the Tourist Information at the Saga Centre, ( 487-8043. For Motorists: Filling station at Steinar, pay at the pump. Museums/Exhibition: Byggðasafnið in Skógar, Folk Museum, ( 487-8845. Open June - August from 9-18, in winter from 11-16, [email protected] www.skogasafn.is Museum of Communication, Skógar, ( 487-8845. Anna frá Moldnúpi, Önnuhús, Moldnúpur, ( 487-8950. Sightseeing and Excursions: Icelandic Mountainguides, at the parking lot by Sólheimajökull Glacier, ( 894-2959, guided glacial hikes in June, July and August, [email protected] www.mountainguide.is South coast adventure, ( 867-3535. Interesting hiking trails in Þórsmörk, in Goðaland, Fimmvörðuháls, Réttarfell, Útigönguhöfði and to the Laugarvegur hiking trail. 830 www.hotelskogar.is 1.5-1.10 24 z Þórsmörk. Beautiful nature reserve partially hid- den among Eyjafjallajökull, Mýrdalsjökull and Tindfjallajökull glaciers. There are countless small valleys, fine birch woods, glacial rivers, crystal-clear brooks and magnificent mountain scenery. Some tourist huts are available, along with a camping ground and endless opportunities for hiking. Note that Þórsmörk cannot be reached except by crossing the powerful and deceptive Krossá river, which can never be done in an ordinary car. Even drivers of big 4WD vehicles should not try unless they are very experienced. Taking a coach is the safest way. z Fljótshlíð - Hlíðarendi. Northern side of the valley where Markarfljót drains from Þórsmörk; very grassy and sheltered. Fljótshlíð was the home of Gunnar Hámundarson, one of the most memorable characters of Njál’s Saga. According to tradition, he was buried in the large mound in the meadow up from the farm, named Gunnarshaugur. z Bergþórshvoll. Centre of the action in Njál’s Saga, where Njáll, his family and household were attacked by his enemies in 1011 and burned alive. Njáll’s son-in-law, Kári Sólmundarson, escaped from the conflagration and his revenge forms the main theme of the latter part of the Saga. z Signs of ancient fencing can be seen on the part of the farmland known as Línakrar, a protected site where flax was probably grown in ancient times. Hvolsvöllur, the population centre of Hvolhreppur district, began developing in the late 1930s. After the main rivers in the area were bridged it grew rapidly. Most of the residents work in industry, trade and services for the surrounding communities. An exhibition devoted to the settlement years and Njálís Saga has been set up, and tours around this Sagaís historical sites have been organized. Information signs have been placed at the various Saga sites. Population 847. Facilities in Hvolsvöllur and vicinity Police: Hlíðarvegur 16, ( 488-4111/852-3265. Tourist Information: at the Saga Centre, Hlíðarvegur, ( 487-8043, open in summer. Information [email protected] all year, [email protected] • www.hotelanna.is Accommodation: Vestri-Garðsauki, ( 487-8078. Country Hotel Anna [email protected] • www.hotelanna.is Country Hotel Anna H hótel skógar Skógum - 861 Hvolsvöllur 487 4880 - Fax 487 5701 - [email protected] Country Hotel Anna - Small but elegant - Personal service Amazing natural beauty - Renowned restaurant. Tel. 487-8950 / 899-5955. 196 AROUND ICELAND Volcanic Eruption on fimmvörðuháls. Hotel Hvolsvöllur, Hlíðarvegur 7, ( 487-8050, [email protected] Ásgarður, Stórólfshvoll, ( 487-1440. 839. Búðarhóll Travel Service, A-Landeyjum, ( 487-8578. 843. Youth Hostel Fljótsdalur, ( 487-8498. 843. Fell, ( 487-5557, mountain hut, open in summer. 846. Smáratún Travel Service, ( 487-8471. 846. Hótel Fljótshlíð, ( 487-8471. 846. Húsið, ( 487-8448. 847. Breiðabólsstaður Travel Service, ( 487-8010/893-2526. 848. Hellishólar, ( 487-8360. Camping Site: Austurvegur, ( 487-8043. Ásgarður, Stórólfshvoll, ( 487-1440. 840. Grandavör, Hallgeirsey, ( 893-6707. 846. Smáratún Travel Service, ( 487-8471. 847. Kaffi Langbrók, ( 487-8333. 848. Hellishólar, ( 487-8360. Restaurants: Hótel Hvolsvöllur, Hlíðarvegur 7, ( 487-8050. Hlíðarendi Service Centre, ( 487-8197. Björkin, Austurvegur 10, ( 487-8670. Gallery Pizza, Hvolsvegur 29, ( 487-8440. Eldstó, café, Austurvegur 2, ( 482-1011. Kaffi Langbrók, ( 487-8333. Hellishólar, ( 487-8360. Hótel Fljótshlíð, ( 487-8471. Leisure and Sport: Swimming pool, ( 487-8607. Golf, Strandarvöllur, between Hvolsvöllur and Hella, 18 holes, ( 487-8208. Grandavör, Hallgeirsey, ( 893-6707, coastal tours on a barge a.m. Hellishólar, ( 487-8360/660-7600, golf 9 holes, fishing, hikes with or without guidance. Details on angling, horse rentals etc. at the Tourist Information at the Saga Centre, ( 487-8043. Health Care Centre: Öldubakki, ( 480-5330. Pharmacy: Lyf og heilsa, Austurvegur 15, ( 487-8630. For Motorists: Filling stations, garage, tyre repair. The Saga Center Open daily Njáls-saga exhibition 09:00 - 18:00 Gallery Ormur The Coop mercantile museum Hlíðarvegur 14 • 860 Hvolsvöllur www.njala.is • [email protected] Tel. 487-8781 • 895-9160 197 AROUND ICELAND Bank: Landsbanki, Austurvegur, ( 410-4182. ATM. Post Office: Austurvegur 2, ( 487-8100. State Alcohol Store: at Hlíðarendi service centre, ( 487-8198. Museums/Exhibition: The Saga Centre: The Saga of Njáll, ( 487-8781/895-9160, [email protected] Söguskálinn: The Co-op Museum; Gallery, souvenirs. Gallery Lambey, ( 487-8321. Uppstoppaða búðin, Ásgarður, ( 487-1440/899-4600. Places of Interest/Sightseeing: The Saga Centre, ( 487-8781/895-9160, guided tours to the setting of Njáll´s Saga. Gyðjuhof by Kaffi Langbrók, 487-8333, a temple of the Norse pagans. Details on jeeptours, ATV tours, etc. at the Tourist Information at the Saga Centre, ( 487-8043. Transport: Sterna, ( 551-1166: Daily scheduled coach service: Reykjavík -Selfoss –Hella - Hvolsvöllur – Skógar – Vík Kirkjubæjarklaustur - Skaftafell and Höfn, May 15- Sep. 15. www.sterna.is Kynnisferðir, ( 580-5400, daily trips to Þórsmörk June 1Sep. 13. Flugfélag Vestmannaeyja, ( 481-3255. Air service to Vestmannaeyjar from Bakki, info. at Information office, ( 487-8043. Herjólfur, ( 481-2800, from July 1, daily scheduled sailings to Vestmannaeyjar from Landeyjahöfn. - Rangáþing Ytra z Keldur. Ancient farm and church site in Rangárvellir, mentioned in Njál’s Saga and elsewhere. It is located on the edge of a lava flow where there is a natural spa, which is what the name means. The present iron-clad timber church was built in 1875 and contains many interesting items. The main hall of the turf-built farm at Keldur is of ancient origin, the only one of its kind now preserved. Old household utensils and agricultural implements are also on exhibit at Keldur. z Oddi. Home of one of the leading families in the 12 and 13 centuries and a major centre for learning and culture. A church has been on the site since the introduction of Christianity, although the present one only dates from 1924. Oddi was the home of many important cultural and political figures in the past, including Sæmundur the Wise, the subject of many folk tales in which he consistently outwits the devil. His grandson, Jón Loftsson (1124-1197), was the most powerful man in Iceland in his day and fostered the great historian and Saga writer Snorri Sturluson (1178-1241). z Mt. Hekla. Iceland’s most famous volcano and still very active. The mountain is 1,491 m high and towers impressively above the lowlands of the south. For centuries, Hekla was thought to be the gateway to Hell, where the souls of the damned burned in eternal flame. Hekla is a central volcano that has been piled up along a 40 km fissure, and studies of ash strata reveal that it has been active for at least 6,600 years. Some 20 eruptions in Hekla have been witnessed since the settlement, and another 8 in the vicinity. Leisure Activities For the family The best approach for walking on Hekla is from the north or northwest. The explorers Eggert Ólafsson and Bjarni Pálsson were the first men to climb the mountain in 1750. An exhibition featuring Mt. Hekla has been set up at the Hekla Centre, at Leirubakki á Landi near Mt. Hekla, in which the nature of the volcano and the ìrelationship between the mountain and the Icelandic nation over 11 centuriesî is explored. The Hekla Centre also provides information about the best route to Mt. Hekla, and hands out certificates to those who hike up the mountain. Mt. Hekla. One of the easiest ways to ascend volcanic Mt. Hekla is by driving from Landmannaleið on the west side of Nýjahraun, and stopping at the parking spaces at Rauðaskál, where the peak can be reached by walking along the ridge. The walk is 7 km each way, so a whole day should be set aside for the trip. Hella stands on the eastern bank of Ytri-Rangár river. Settled in 1927 when a store was opened, the community has grown ever since. Residents provide a variety of general services for the surrounding area. On the west bank of the river, facing Hella, are caves dug into encrusted sand. Other such examples are in the vicinity, for example, at Árbær, Áshverfi and Hellar. Some have indecipherable inscriptions, but one hypothesis is that they are relics from the time of Irish monks over 1,100 years ago. Population 787. Facilities in Hella Tourist Information-Hella: Þrúðvangur 24, Hekla handverkshús, ( 487-5165, [email protected] Accommodation: Gh. Árhús, Rangárbakkar, ( 487-5577, fax 487-5477, [email protected] www.arhus.is Fosshótel Mosfell, Þrúðvangur 6, ( 487-5828, 562-4000, fax 487-5004, [email protected] Gh. Brenna, Þrúðvangur 37, ( 487-5532. Hellir-Inn, Ægissíða 4, ( 487-5871/868-3677, [email protected] www,hellirinn.is. Camping Site: On the banks of river Rangá, contact Árhús Hella, ( 487- 5577. Restaurants/Snack Bars: Café Árhús, Rangárbakkar, ( 487-5577. Restaurant Kristján X, Þrúðvangur 34, ( 487-5484. Kanslarinn, Dynskálar 10c, ( 487-5100. Bakery Kökuval, Þingskálar 4, ( 487-5214. Leisure and Sport: Swimming pool, Útskálar, ( 487-5334. Golf, Strandarvöllur, between Hvolsvöllur and Hella, 18 holes, ( 487-8208. Details on angling, horse rentals, etc: contact the Tourist Information Centre, ( 487-5165. Health Care Centre: Suðurlandsvegur 3, ( 480-5320. Pharmacy: Lyf og heilsa, Suðurlandsvegur 3, ( 487-5030. For Motorists: Filling stations, garage, tyre repair. 30 52 152 86 www.hotelhvolsvollur.is 21 86 0,5 3 7 guesthouse árhús hella Rangárbakkar - 850 Hella 487HÓTEL 5577 - Fax 487HVOLSVÖLLUR 5477 - [email protected] - www.arhus.is Hlíðarvegur 7 - 860 Hvolsvöllur 487 8050 - Fax 487 8058 - [email protected] H 851 www.hotelranga.is H 104 52 www.hotelranga.is H hótel rangá HÓTEL RANGÁ Suðurlandsvegur - 851 Hella - 487 5700 H - 851 Hella Fax 487Suðurlandsvegur 5701 - [email protected] 487 5700 - Fax 487 5701 - [email protected] 868 10 11 Shorter and longer riding trips. www.herridarholl.is G Accommodation. herríðarhóll Ásahreppur - 851 Hella - 487 5252, 899 1759 Fax 487 5252 - [email protected] 30 H G 30 0,4 8 Welcome to Rangárþing Power and Purity www.hvolsvollur.is www.eyjafjoll.is 198 AROUND ICELAND www.hellirinn.is AR O U N D I C EL AN D mosfell OPEN ALL YEAR - Tel: 487 5828 www.fosshotel.is - e-mail: [email protected] 199 AROUND ICELAND HELLIRINN Ægissíða 4 -Rangárþing ytra - 851 Hella 487 5871 - 868 3677 - Fax 487 5171 - [email protected] Galt Hekla Leirubakki Landmannalaugar Taxi: ( 862-1864/860-2802. Bank: Arion Bank, Þrúðvangur 5, ( 488-4000, ATM. Post Office: Þrúðvangur 10, ( 487-5800. Local Handicraft: Handverkshúsið Hekla, Þrúðvangi 35, ( 487-5532/864-5531/862-2757, [email protected] Places of Interest/Sightseeing: Toptours, snowmobiletours to Hekla, Þrúðvangur 39, ( 487-5530, [email protected] Hekluferðir, Heiðvangur 18, ( 487-6611. Transport: Sterna, ( 551-1166: Daily scheduled coach service Reykjavík -Selfoss –Hella - Hvolsvöllur – Skógar – Vík Kirkjubæjarklaustur - Skaftafell and Höfn, May 15- Sep. 15. www.sterna.is Events: In the middle of August: Harvest Festival, ( 487-5165. Facilities in the vicinity Accommodation: 849. Hótel Rangársel, Stokkalækur, ( 487-8780/5700. 850. Efri Rauðalækur, ( 487-5046. 851. ****Hotel Rangá, ( 487-5700, fax 487-5701, [email protected] www.hotelranga.is 852. Hestheimar, ( 487-6666. 853. Austvaðsholt, ( 487-6598. 14 854. Gh. Hrólfsstaðahellir, ( 861-2290. 855. Hotel Leirubakki, ( 487-8700/862-8005, [email protected] www.leirubakki.is 18 2 14 18 2 3 chalets for 6 people, each with cooking facilities, and barbecue. GALTALÆKUR II Galtalækur II - Rangárþing ytra v/ veg 26 - 851 Hella ✆ 487 6528, 861 6528 - [email protected] GALTALÆKUR II 856. Galtalækur II, chalets, ( 487-6528, [email protected] 857. Rjúpnavellir, ( 892-0409, sleeping-bag acc. 916. Hótel Háland, Hrauneyjar, ( 487-7750, at road F26, [email protected] www.hrauneyjar.is 858. Gh. Heimaland, Holta-og Landssveit, ( 487-5787. 868. Herríðarhóll, Ásahreppur, ( 487-5252/899-1759, herridarholl@ herridarholl.is www. herridarholl.is Camping Site: 855. Áning, Stóra Klofa, ( 487-6611. 855. Leirubakki, ( 487-6591. 856. Galtalækjarskógur. 867. Laugaland, ( 487-6543. 894. Þykkvibær, ( 895-7680, campers. Restaurants/Snack Bars: Leirubakki, ( 487-6591. Hótel Háland, Hrauneyjar, ( 487-7750, at road F26. Hestheimar, ( 487-6666. Leisure and Sport: 867. Laugaland, swimming pool, ( 487-6543. Horse Rentals: Leirubakki, ( 487-6591. Herríðarhóll, ( 487-5252/899-1759. Hestheimar, ( 487-6666. Hekluhestar, ( 487-6598. Áshestar, ( 487-5064. Horse Riding: Kálfholt, ( 487-5176/861-7385. Information on angling and more at the Tourist Information Centre, Hella, Hekla handverkshús, ( 487-5165. Local Handicrafts: Hlutverk frá Dóru, ceramics, Hákot, Þykkvibær, ( 487-5618. Gallery Guðfinna, Saurbær, ( 869-6135/487-6560. Gallerý Kambur, Ásahreppur, ( 487-6554/899-1124. Museums/Exhibition: Keldur, Rangárvellir, ( 487-8452. Folk Museum in one of the Þrjú sex-manna oldest buildings in Iceland, open daily June - Sept. smáhýsi, öll með The Hekla Centre, Leirubakki, ( 487-8700, Modern and eldunaraðstöðu og kolagrill fyrir informative multi-media exhibition about Mt. Hekla, utan hvert hús. its history and impact on the Icelandic people, Skógur í kring. from the Settlement to the present day. Places of Interest/Excursions: Þrjú sex-manna smáhýsi, öll með Dog sledding, Bolholt, 487-7747/863-8864. eldunaraðstöðu Hellar á Landi, ( 487-6583, Man-made caves can be og kolagrill fyrir explored summer, admission fee. utan hvert in hús. Skógur í kring. Transportation: Flugfélag Vestmannaeyja - Westman Islands Airline, ( 481-3255, flights from Bakki to the Westman Islands. Charter flights to all points in Iceland. 200 AROUND ICELAND Hekla Are you on your way to Landmannalaugar or planning to come see the volcano Hekla? If so, then Leirubakki is definitely the place for you to stop! Leirubakki is on Route 26, on the way to Hekla and Landmannalaugar. There you will find the Hekla Center, with exhibitions about Hekla and information and advice for travelers to Landmannalaugar and all of the other most important sites in southern Iceland. Lan dmanna laugar Leirubakki has a hotel, a guesthouse with sleeping bag accomodation, a campsite, hot tubs and the Vikingpool, a restaurant with a diverse menu, a shop, a gas station, good hiking trails, horse rental for both the experienced and inexperienced, short and long horseback trips, evenings of storytelling, and cultural walks in the Leirubakki vicinity. Leirubakki is known to tourists and nature lovers from all parts of the world for its excellent, personalized service, stable weather conditions, beautiful landscapes, outstanding mountain scenery, and more than 1000 years of history. Leirubakki is situated in the center of southern Iceland. It is only 100 km from Reykjavík, with easy access both by car and bus. All of the most outstanding natural gems of this part of the country, as well as the Icelandic highlands, are within an hour’s drive. Leirubakki is a natural and unmissable stop for anyone traveling in southern Iceland and who has an interest in the country’s natural wonders and history. Volcanoes and glaciers. Hot springs and pools. Lava and sand. Icelandic forests and green landscapes. Diverse bird-life. Leirubakki welcomes you, all year round! The Pool at Leirubakki Hotel Leirubakki and The Hekla Center, Leirubakki, 851 Hella, Iceland. Tel: +354 4878700. - www.leirubakki.is - [email protected] Photo: RthSig. hella. Kertasmiðjan, candle factory, Brautarholt, ( 486-5518/897-2612. Horse Rental: Land og hestar, Húsatóftir, ( 486-5560. Places of Interest: 872. Vorsabær II, ( 486-5522/861-9634, open farm, Events: Mid September. Skeiðaréttir and Stafholtsréttir, sheep round-up. - ÁRNES - ÞJÓRSÁRDALUR Árnes is a hamlet that has been developing in Gnúpverja hreppur in recent years. During summer the community centre provides food and refreshments.There is also a guest house, swimming pool and sports facility. þjórsárdalur. - skeiða- & gnúpverjahreppur z Þjórsá. The longest river in Iceland, whose source is at Bergvatnskvísl on Sprengisandur in the Highland interior. On its way past Hofsjökull glacier, the river runs through the extensive Þjórsáver wetlands, a protected natural site which is the worldís main breeding site for the pink-footed goose. Þjórsá is 230 km long and drains a catchment area of 7,530 km2. Typical summer flow in the river is 350-700 m3/ sec. at the Urriðafoss waterfall. Many other waterfalls are on its course seawards, especially towards the Highlands, and a number of hydroelectric power stations have been built to harness it and its tributaries. The Búrfell, Sigalda and Hrauneyjarfoss power stations harness the river itself, while reservoirs have been created for others at Lake Þórisvatn and Sultartangi. z Þjórsárdalur Valley. Traversed by Þjórsá river and three other rivers as well, a landscape of sharp contrasts such as flourishing birch woods, sandy lava fields, rivers and waterfalls. Gjáin is a stunning ravine with lush vegetation, numerous springs, bizarre rock formations and a picturesque little waterfall, Gjárfoss. Other remarkable waterfalls in the valley are Hjálparfoss and Háifoss. A flourishing farming community lived in Þjórsárdalur after the settlement, until the valley was swamped by ash from an eruption of Mt. Hekla in 1104. One of the ruined farms, Stöng, has been excavated and served as the model for the nearby Saga-Age Farm reconstruction (Þjóðveldisbærinn). Facilities Accommodation: 871. Hótel Hekla, ( 486-5540. 872. Brautarholt, ( 486-5500. 872. Hestakráin, Húsatóftir, ( 486-5616/895-0066. 872. Vorsabær II, ( 486-5522/861-9634. Camping Site: 872. Brautarholt, ( 486-5500/897-2612. Restaurants/Snack Bars: Hótel Hekla, ( 486-5540. Hestakráin, Húsatóftir, ( 486-5616. Swimming Pool: 872. Brautarholt, ( 486-5500. Local Handicrafts: Facilities Accommodation: 860. Hólaskógur, ( 661-2503/661-2504. 864. Steinsholt, ( 486-6069/863-8270. 866. Gh. Árnes, ( 486-6048/861-2645. Camping Site: 862. Sandártunga, Þjórsárdalur, ( 486-6062/893-8889. 866. By Árnes, ( 486-6048. Restaurants: Árnes, ( 486-6048. Árborg, ( 486-6006. Leisure and Sport: 866. Neslaug, swimming pool, Árnes, ( 486-6117. 861. Þjórsárdalslaug, ( 661-2503/2504, swimming pool, Óbyggðaferðir, ( 661-2503/2504, ATV tours, obyggdaferdir.is Steinsholt, horse rental, hot tubs, ( 486-6069. Vestra-Geldingaholt, riding school, yoga ( 486-6055/ 861-7013. Fossnes, riding tours ( 486-6079/ 895-8079. For Motorists: Árnes, ( 486-6089. Museum/Exhibitions: Þjóðveldisbærinn in Þjórsárdalur, ( 488-7713. Saga-Age Farm, replica of original farm found by archaeologists, www.thjodveldisbaer.is - Flúðir Flúðir is a hamlet developed around its proximity to the Hellisholt geothermal field. An important greenhouse industry is operated at Flúðir, including Icelandís largest production of mushrooms. In 1899 geologist Dr. Helgi Pétursson (1872-1949) found palagonite tuff formations at Hellisholt, which led to new theories about the duration of the Ice Age. Population 381. Flúðir 486-6633 Open weekdays 9-22 Sat. 10-22 Sun. 10-20 Restaurants/Snack Bars: Hótel Flúðir, ( 486-6630. Útlaginn Kaffihús, Flúðir, ( 486-6425. Verslunin Strax, Flúðir, ( 486-6633. Kaffi-Sel, at the Golf Course, ( 486-6454. Golfskálinn Snússa, ( 486-6601/896-6683. Kaffihúsið Grund, ( 552-6962/ 663-7771. Leisure and Sport: Swimming pool, ( 486-6790. Golf, Selsvöllur, 18 holes, nearby Flúðir, ( 486-6454/891-7811. Ásatúnsvöllur, 9-hole golfcourse near Flúðir, ( 486-6601 / 898-6683. Syðra-Langholt, ( 486-6774/894-8974, horse rental. For Motorists: Filling station, garage, tyre repair, 486-6769. Museum/Exhibition/Local Handicrafts: Safn Emils Ásgeirssonar, Gröf, ( 486-6635/6634/6636. Cattle shed and barn housing collection of old farm articles. Open by arrangement. Glass Workshop, Rut Sigurðardóttir, ( 486-6770/847-3485. Places of Interest: Sólheimar, ( 486-6590/865-8761. open farm, a small museum. Transport: Sterna, ( 551-1166: Daily scheduled coach service to Selfoss. Events: Mid September. Hrunaréttir, sheep round-up. - Bláskógabyggð Bláskógabyggð is a municipality in upper Árnessýsla district, west of the Hvítá river. To the south is the district of Grímsnes and Grafningshreppur and to the west it borders with Mosfellsbær, a community east of Reykjavik. The municipality was formed in 2002 through the merger of Þingvallahreppur, Laugardalshreppur and Biskupstungnahreppur districts. Residential centres have formed in Laugarás, Reykholt and Laugarvatn. The name of the municipality is taken from an area around Lake Þingvallavatn known as Bláskógar, or Blue Forests. Population 937. 873 30 Facilities Accommodation: *** Icelandair Hotel Flúðir, ( 444-4000/486-6630, 873. Syðra-Langholt, ( 486-6574/861-6652, [email protected] Dalbær, ( 486-6770/847-3485. Gistiheimilið Grund,( 552-6962/ 663-7771. Camping Site: 873. Álfaskeið, ( 486-6774. Flúðir camping site, ( 486-6535. 202 AROUND ICELAND 1 10 5 guesthouse syðra langholt G Syðra-Langholt - 845 Flúðir 486 6574 - 861 6652 - [email protected] 203 AROUND ICELAND - Biskupstungur Reykholt and Laugarás are two hamlets in Biskupstungur where there are large reserves of geothermal water, used to heat numerous greenhouses. There is a health-care centre and domestic animal zoo at Laugarás, and a swimming pool, store and accommodation facilities at Reykholt. Combined population 306. z Gullfoss. “Golden Waterfall” on the glacial river Hvítá, renowned for its breathtaking beauty and one of Iceland’s main sightseeing attractions.This mighty two-tiered cataract creates a majestic spectacle as it thunders 32 m over a fault into a gorge measuring 2.5 km in length and up to 70 m deep in places, which the river has cut into the strata over the past 10,000 years. The waterfall can be viewed close up, as well as from a good vantage point overlooking the chasm where a Gullfoss centre has been built, named Sigríðarstofa in memory of local woman Sigríður Tómasdóttir from Brattholt. She campaigned earlier last century against plans to develop a hydroelectricity plant there. z Geysir. Another “must” for sightseers, which has lent its name (meaning “Gusher”) as the generic term for this strange phenomenon of spouting hot springs. A smaller, adjacent hot spring, Strokkur, is a popular attraction, erupting at 5-10-minute intervals. The Geysir geothermal field contains a variety of hot springs and bubbling pools. The area is protected. Geysisstofa, an educational and information centre, was opened in the summer of 2000, and is concerned with volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, glaciers, hot springs, waterfalls and vegetation. There is also a technological exhibition on geology in Iceland. z Skálholt. Bishopric from 1056-1801, for centuries one of the main cultural, educational and political centres in Iceland. Skálholt is located in a geothermal area at a fine vantage point in Biskupstungur with a commanding view of the surrounding countryside. In all, 44 bishops served at Skálholt during its almost 700 years as the centre of religious life in south Iceland: 31 Catholic bishops until the Reformation in 1550, and 13 Lutheran after that. In the year 1796 the bishopric was moved to Reykjavík, but in 1801, Skálholt and the northern see of Hólar were merged to form the present single bishopric which is based in Reykjavík. Among the many important historical events taking place at Skálholt was the execution of the last Catholic bishop, Jón Arason (b. 1484), and his three sons in 1550. The present cathedral was consecrated in 1963 but visitors can still see much older relics, including a tunnel which linked it to the nearby houses and school, and the sarcophagus of Bishop Páll Jónsson, who died in 1211. Facilities in Reykholt and Laugarás Accommodation: Hótel Hvítá, Laugarás, ( 486-1300. Húsið, Bjarkarbraut 26, Reykholt, ( 486-8680, [email protected] www.aratunga.is Camping Site: Hótel Hvítá, Laugarás, ( 486-1300. Laugagerði, Laugarás, ( 486-8809. Reykholt, ( 893-1434/897-5728. Restaurants/Snack Bars: 48 24 10 www.geysircenter.is H [email protected] 480 6800 801 Geysir 23 12 0,2 Guesthouse Geysir & Geysir Golf Course G guesthouse geysir Haukadalur 3 - 801 Selfoss - 486 8733 893 8733 - [email protected] - www.geysirgolf.is www.aratunga.is 21 10 0,6 20 G Restaurant in the vicinity húsið Bjarkarbraut 26 - Reykholt Biskupstungur - 801 Selfoss 486 8680, 897 5728 - [email protected] Kaffi Klettur www.kaffiklettur.is A friendly café and restaurant in a beautiful environment. home-made local food. Open daily April 15 - Sept 15 and at weekends in winter Kaffi Klettur | Skólabraut 1 | 801 Reykholti | Tel. 486-1310 Café Klettur, Reykholt, ( 486-1310/857-5057. Hótel Hvítá, Laugarás, ( 486-1300. Slakki, Laugarás, ( 486-8783. Leisure and Sport: Reykholtslaug, swimming pool, ( 486-8807. Farm animals at Slakki, Laugarás, ( 486-8783/868-7626. Health Care Centre: Laugarás, ( 480-5300. For Motorists: Garage, tyre repair at Iða, ( 486-1250. Bank: Landsbanki, Reykholt, ( 410-4151. Places of Interest: Garðyrkjubúið Engi, Laugarás, ( 486-8913, open fram, greenery. Garðyrkjustöðin Espiflöt, Reykholt, open farm, blómarækt 486-8955/896-8720 Transport: Sterna, ( 551-1166: Daily scheduled coach service Reykjavík-Reykholt-Geysir-Gullfoss. www.sterna.is Facilities in the countryside Accommodation: 875. Hótel Gullfoss, ( 486-8979. 876. Kjóastaðir, 2 chalets, ( 486-3333/848-0969. 876. Skálinn, Myrkholt, sleeping bag acc., ( 486-8757/867-3571. 877. Hótel Geysir, ( 480-6800, [email protected] www.geysircenter.is 877. Gh. Geysir, ( 486-8733/893-8733. 878. Úthlíð, ( 486-8770. 880. Sveitasetrið, cottage, ( 691-3661. 881. Hrosshagi, chalets, ( 486-8905/861-1915. 884. Skálholt, ( 486-8870, [email protected] www.skalholt.is Camping site: 874. By Faxi, ( 486-8710/898-1594. 877. Geysir, ( 486-6800. 878. Úthlíð, ( 486-8770. Restaurants: Skálholt, ( 486-8870. Hótel Geysir, ( 480-6800. Geysir kiosk and snack bar, ( 480-6800. Réttin, Úthlíð, ( 486-8770. Gullfosskaffi, ( 486-6500/899-3014. Gh. Geysir, ( 486-8733/893-8733. Swimming Pools: 877. Geysir, ( 480-6800. 878. Hlíðarlaug (Úthlíð), ( 486-8770. Leisure and Sport: Golf; Úthlíð, Biskupstungur, 9 holes, ( 486-8770. Kjóastaðir, riding tours, ( 486-3333/848-0969. Horse farm Friðheimar, horse shows ( 897-1915. Paintball, Rauðaskógur, ( 770-7830. Activity Tour, ( 580-9900, river rafting on Hvítá, ATV in Haukadalsheiði and snowmobile tours on Langjökull glacier. Arctic Adventures, (562-7000, various leisure activities, river rafting, conoeing, climbing, snorkeling, caving etc. www.arcticrafting.is www.explore.is [email protected] Museums/Show: Geysisstofa museum and multimedia show, ( 480-6800. Places of Interest: Hrosshagi, ( 486-8905/861-1915, open farm. Arnarholt, ( 486-8621/696-9824, open farm. Events: July 17 - 18, Skálholtshátíð Festival; Summer Concerts in Skálholt in July and August, on Saturdays at 15 and 17 and on Sunday at 15 followed by a church service at 17, www.skalholt.is July 30 - Aug. 2, Úthlíð, Family Festival. Mid September. Tungnaréttir, sheep round-up. 204 AROUND ICELAND GISTINGAR - ACCOMMODATIO 884 25 36 18 10 - Laugarvatn - www.skalholt.is Built-up around the local schools, Laugarvatn is a longestablished hamlet in Laugardalur valley, sitting above huge quantities of geothermal water. Legend says that after their execution at Skálholt in 1550, the bodies of the last Catholic bishop, Jón Arason, and his sons, were washed in a warm pool, Vígðulaug, by the lake before being sent north for burial. Several rocks by the pool have been named Líksteinar (Corpse Rocks). Population 2186. FA skálholtsskóli Skálholt - 801 Selfoss 486 8870 - [email protected] G www.efstadal.is 256 www.brekkukot.com 33 28 10 Mt. Laugarvatnsfjall. An ideal place for a panoramic view of the many trails that can be followed around Lake Laugarvatn. The easiest approach is up the shoulder by the ski lift. The mountain is wide and flat at the top, so it is worth walking right around it for a complete view. Gullborg, also offering a panoramic view, can be approached by car from Miðdalur. Facilities Accommodation **Hótel Edda, College, ( 444-4810. **Hótel Edda, Sportgymnasium, ( 444-4820. Gh. Dalsel, ( 899-5409. Sport Centre, ( 899-5409. 882. Efsti-Dalur, ( 486-1186/862-1626. Camping Site: The Camping centre, facilities for RVS, ( 862-5614. Restaurants/Snack Bars: Restaurant Lindin, ( 486-1262/898-9599, [email protected] www.laugarvatn.is Resturant Bláskógar, ( 486-1155. Samkaup Strax, ( 486 1126. Hótel Edda, College, ( 444-4810. Hótel Edda, Sportgymnasium, ( 444-4820. Leisure and Sport: Swimming pool and hot tubs, ( 486-1251. For opening hours see advertisment. Boat rental, ( 486-1151/897-6351. Húfa, ( 866-4896, various leisure activities for groups. Laugarvatn Adventure, ( 862-5614, various leisure activities, cave exploration, canoeing a.m. [email protected] Jogging tracks, sports fields and putting green. Golf, Dalbúi, 9 holes, ( 894-1169. A new Natural Steam Bath will open in summer 2008. Health Care Centre: ( 480-5290. For Motorists: Filling station, garage, tyre repair. Post: Samkaup Strax, ( 486-1126. Local Handicraft: Gallerí Laugarvatn, ( 486-1016. Transport: Sterna, ( 551-1166. Daily scheduled coach service Reykjavík-Selfoss-Hella-Hvolsvöllur-Vík. www.sterna.is 8 5 5 G G BREKKUKOT, Efstidalur GISTIHEIMILI Bauernhof II Sólheimar í Grímsnesi - 801 Selfoss Efsti-Dalur II - 810 Selfoss 898 4483 - 480 4483 - [email protected] 486 1186, 862 1626 - Fax 486 1086 - [email protected] www.minniborgir.is SUMAR / SUMMER mán/mon - fös/fri 10:00 - 22:00 lau/sat - sun/sun 10:00 - 18:00 257 26 0,5 4 10 Vetur / Winter mán, mið, fös /mon, wed, fri 17:00 - 20:00 lau/sat 13:00 - 17:00 þri, fim, sun MINNI BORGIR /tue, thu, sun Minni-Borg, Grímsnesi - 801 Selfoss Lokað/closed 840 -Laugarvatn 868 3592 486 1500 - Fax 486 1515 - [email protected] swimming pool hí laugarvatn 258 486 1251 www.efstadal.is TAURANT LINDIN RES 26 28 10 H 5 5 G WW W.LAUG BÆNDAGISTING EFSTA-DAL II . ARVATN Efsti-Dalur II - 801 Selfoss IS 486 1186, 862 1626 - Fax 486· 1086 - [email protected] RestaurantCafé - Bistro INTERNET C@FÉ New Banquet Hall · [email protected] ( 486-1262 898 9599 H During the “The Golden Age of Iceland,” Þingvellir was the site of many events related in the Icelandic Sagas. Most of these sagas were written in the 13th century and are the cornerstone of Icelandic civilization. After 1262, Iceland became a part of the monarchy of the Norwegian King, and later of the Danish King. The Alþingi nevertheless continued to convene in Þingvellir as a legislative assembly and judicial court up to the end of the 18th century. Signs can also be seen of general festivals being held during this period. Thus, Þingvellir, as in earlier times, was a centre of national life at the time of assembly each year. þingvellir. - Þingvellir z Icelanders gathered at the Öxará River in Þingvellir for the first time in 930 AD. From then until 1798 (continuously for 868 years), Þingvellir was the nation’s meeting place. The first part of this period has been named “The Golden Age of Iceland.” These words refer to the Icelandic Commonwealth that lasted from 930 to 1264. All this time, Iceland was an independent nation. The Alþingi (Icelandic Parliament) in Þingvellir held the supreme authority of the country. The Alþingi was both a legislative and judicial assembly. There, disputes from all over the country were resolved. In ancient times, the Alþingi convened each year at the end of June for a period of approximately two weeks, but in later centuries, the period was for one week at the beginning of July. In the 19th century, several gatherings were held in Þingvellir. The most outstanding one was the National Celebration of 1874 when Iceland acquired its constitution. Poets then wrote poetry about Þingvellir, and the site became a symbol for all that Iceland is. In the 20th century, Icelanders have held national celebrations in Þingvellir attended by a great many people. The most remarkable one was the Dedication of the Republic on 17 June 1944 when the Republic of Iceland was founded. From this occasion and others, Þingvellir has become, as the Act of 1928 on the Protection of Þingvellir states, “the sacred site of all Icelanders”. In addition to the above, Þingvellir is remarkable for reasons of natural science. The site of the ancient Alþingi (Parliament) lies in a rift valley. The basin is part of the Great Atlantic Rift that runs through Iceland from the Southwest to the Northeast. The rift valley basin in Þingvellir today has been formed over the last 10,000 years. Lake Þingvellir is the largest lake in Iceland and teems with life. Þingvellir has been protected for less than 70 years and is the oldest national park in Iceland. The Þingvellir National Park is under the management of the Alþingi. Source: www.kristni.is/ A member of the World Heritage family Welcome to Þingvellir National Park Find out more on www.thingvellir.is 206 AROUND ICELAND Þingvellir has been a nature reserve for almost eighty years and is Iceland’s oldest nature reserve. The reserve is under the management of the Parliament Þingvellir Committee. In summer 2004, Þingvellir was registered on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It is the first place in Iceland to be featured on the list - which features only the rarest pearls of nature. Places of Interest: Sesselja House Eco-centre, ( 480-4483, Conference Centre, Auditorium, Sculpture Park. Events: Aug. 7, “Grims-adventure“ in Borg. Performances and art exhibitions in Sólheimar, www.solheimar.is - Flóahreppur - Facilities at Þingvellir Tourist Information-Þingvellir: Service Centre in Þingvellir, ( 482-2660/3606, [email protected] www.thingvellir.is Accommodation: 902. Skógarhólar, ( 899-7052. Camping Site: 901. National Park, Þingvellir, ( 482-2660. 902. Skógarhólar, ( 899-7052. Restaurants/Snack Bars: Service Centre, ( 482-3606. Leisure and Sport: Marked hiking trails in the National Park. Museum/Exhibition: The Nationalpark´s Info-centre, Multimedia-Show, open daily in summer from 9-19. Free entry, www.thingvellir.is Flói is the name of the area defined by Ölfusá, Hvítá, Merkurhraun, Þjorsá and the coast.Vegetation is diverse and birdlife thrives. In the easternmost part is the community Flóahreppur which is inhabited by about 550 people living off agriculture. - Grímsnes & Grafningshreppur - the top of the area you’ll see evidence of massive earthquakes, which occurred on June 21, 2000. There was great damage to property in the quake, which measured 6.5 on the Richter scale. Sólheimar Eco-village, founded in 1930 a charming village of about 100 inhabitants, renowned for its international, artistic and ecological atmosphere, which prides itself on its varied cultural, social and sporting activities. Facilities Accommodation: 883. Minni Borgir, Minni Borg, ( 486-1500/868-3592. 885. Sel, ( 486-4441. 886. Gh. Brekkukot, Sólheimar, ( 480-4483/4476/898-4483, 900. Hótel Hengill, Nesjavellir, ( 482-3415, Camping Site: 883. Borg, Grímsnes, ( 486-4402/863-7139. 888. Þrastaskógur, Grímsnes, ( 482-2010. Restaurants/ Snack Bars: Hotel Hengill, ( 482-3415. Gamla Borg, Grímsnes, ( 486-4550/482-2670. Þrastarlundur by River Sog, ( 482-2010. Café Græna kannan, Sólheimar, ( 480-4483. Swimming Pools: 883. Swimming pool Borg, ( 486-4402. 889. Swimming pool Hraun (Hraunborgir), ( 486-4414. Leisure/Sport: Golf, Kiðjabergsvöllur, Grímsnes, 9 holes, ( 486-4495. Golf, Öndverðarnesvöllur, Grímsnes, 9 holes,s. 482-3380. Adrenalíngarðurinn, ( 567 8978/511-1140, diverse leisure activities, treasure hunts, group motivation, tours and more. www.adrenalin.is Útilífsmiðstöð skáta, Úlfljótsvatn, ( 550 9800, jungle gym, boats and diverse leisure activities for groups, www.ulfljotsvatn.is ATV tours from Borgir, ( 486-1500/868-3592. Local Handicrafts: Vala, gallery, Sólheimar, Grímsnes, ( 486-4489. z Þjórsá is the longest river in the country at 230 km and the most voluminous, similar to Ölfusá at 360 m/s. The water comes from under Hofsjökull and Vatnajökull. The amount of clay carried along with it is enormous: 4.5 million tonnes per year. z Earthquakes have caused havoc in past centuries. On Facilities Information: www.floahreppur.is Accommodation: 891. Þingborg Community centre, ( 482-1027. 892. Þjórsárver, Villingaholtshreppur, ( 898-2554, groups, family reunions, www.thjorsarver.is 892. Egilsstaðir 1, ( 567-6268/862-3628. 893. Gaulverjarbæjarskóli, youth hostel, ( 551-0654/865-2121. Camping Site : 892. Þjórsárver, ( 898-2554. 893. Gaulverjarbæjarskóli, youth hostel, ( 551-0654/865-2121. Leisure and Sport: Krían á Kríumýri, country inn, ( 899-7643/897-7643. Egilsstaðir 1, ( 862-3628, guided riding tours. Local Handicrafts: Ullarvinnslan Þingborg, near Selfoss, ( 482-3093, [email protected] Country Store Sóley, Tunga, ( 566-8191. Tré og list, Forsæti III, ( 868-9045/486-3335, open Sat.and Sun. from 13-17 and by arrangement. 207 AROUND ICELAND fiingborg, 8 km east of Selfoss Wollen products - Quality handicrafts. Sweaters, socks, mittens and more made from select lambswool. Carded wool for fulling and spinning. Unspun wool - handspun wool. Tel. 482 1027 / 693 6509 [email protected] - Árborg Árborg municipality is in the west part of Flói district which is the strip of land between the rivers Þjórsá and Ölfusá. The municipality was created when four municipalities merged in 1998. Árborg has three towns, Selfoss, Stokkseyri and Eyrarbakki. Árborg offers diverse and stunning landscapes, beautiful mountain vistas, unique birdlife and shoreline. Árborg has a range of services catering for the citizens of the South and visitors alike—restaurants, places to stay, interesting museums and galleries. Population on 1 December 2009 was 7,810. - Selfoss in Árborg Selfoss falls under the municipality of Árborg. It is the largest residential area in south Iceland and is situated next to the Ölfusárbrú bridge. Selfoss was settled in 1891 when a hanging bridge was built across the Ölfusá river. At the time the bridge was the largest man-made structure in Iceland. Around 1930 the town solidified when the Kaupfélag Árnesinga co-op and Mjólkurbú Flóamanna dairy processing plant began operations. Selfoss is the main centre of trade, services and industry in southern Iceland. It has a Tourist Information Centre, various accommodation options, a campground, restaurants and cafés, a swimming pool with a sauna, art gallery, hospital, two elementary schools, a musical scool and the Fjölbrautaskóli Suðurlands upper secondary school. There are robust sport and leisure activities in Selfoss, among other things a nine-hole golf course nearby, fine walking and hiking paths are located in the area, and there is an exceptional view of the mountains. Population 6,488. Facilities in Selfoss in Árborg Police: Hörðuvellir 1, ( 480-1010. Tourist Information: Library, Austurvegur 2, ( 480-1990, open May 1f- Sep. 15 weekdays 10 – 19, Sat. 11 – 14, access to the Internet, [email protected] http://tourinfo.arborg.is/ Accommodation: ****Hótel Selfoss, Eyrarvegur 2, ( 482-2500, **Gesthús, Engjavegur, ( 482-3585/663-2449, [email protected] Fosstún, Eyrarvegur 26, ( 480-1200, Apartment hotel, Pension, open June 15- Aug.15, [email protected] Gh. Menam, Eyravegur 8, ( 482-4099. B & B Hostel, Austurvegur 28, ( 482-1600/660-6999. Camping Site: ****Gesthús, by Engjavegur, ( 482-3585. Restaurants/Snack Bars: Hótel Selfoss, ( 482-2500. Hrói Höttur, Austurvegur 22, ( 482-2899. Kaffi-Krús, Austurvegur 7, ( 482-1672. Subway, Eyrarvegur 2, ( 482-7877. Golfskálinn, ( 482-2417. Pylsuvagninn, Tryggvatorg, ( 482-2178. Kentucky Fried Chicken, Austurvegur 46, ( 482-3466. Menam, Eyrarvegur 8, ( 482-4099. Sunnlenska Bókakaffið, Austurvegur 22, ( 482-3074. Blómakaffi, Eyravegur 42, ( 482-4802. Selfoss Swimming Pool Höllin, Eyravegur 32, Pizza take-away, ( 482-4422. – open year-round Kaffi Líf, Austurvegi 40b, book store/lunch, 482-1239. Weekdays: 06:45 – 20:45 Hlöllabátar, by the bridge, ( 898-5378. Weekends: 09:00 – 19:00 Grænt og grillað, veg. restaurant, 849-7835/898-8641. Stokkseyri Swimming Pool Pizza Islandía, Eyrarvegur 5, 486-6600. Bakery: June 1 – Aug. 15 Guðnabakarí, Austurvegur 31b, ( 482-1755. Weekdays: 13:00 – 21:00 Vilberg kökuhús, Tryggvagötu 40, ( 482-2644. Weekends: 10:00 – 17:00 Leisure/Sport: Swimming pool by Bankavegur, Aug. 16 – May 31 ( 480-1960. Opening hours: See advertisment. Dyrhólaeyjarferðir, & 893-6800 fax:river, 487-8545 � 487-8500 Weekdays: kl. 17:00 – 21:00 Golf at Svarfhólsvöllur on the banks of Ölfusá - www.dyrholaey.com Weekends: kl. 10:00 – 15:00 9 holes, ([email protected] 482-2417. Angling permits at Veiðisport, Eyrarvegur 15, ( 482-1506. For details on horse rentals and more leisure activities contact Tourist Information, ( 480-1990. Health Care Centre: By Árvegur, ( 480-5100, from 18:00 to 08:00: ( 480-5112. Byggðasafnið að Skógum varðveitir menningararf Pharmacy: Rangárvallasýslu og Vestur-Skaftafellssýslu. Information · Internet · Art · Library Lyf og heilsa, Austurvegur 3, ( 482-1177. Í safninu eru m.a. endurbyggðir gamlir torfbæir Lyfja, Austurvegur 44, ( 482-3000. og Skógakirkja, sem er dæmigerð fyrir stíl kirkjuFor Motorists: bygginga frá miðöldum fram á 19. öld. Filling station, garage, tyre repair. Car Rental: Samgöngusafnið var opnað 2002, þar er sýnt JÞ, Eyravegur 15 b, ( 482-4040/892-6612. yfir þróun ferðalaga og samgangna, Aning_P054-067yfirlit -´08 20.11.2007 17:03 Page Banks: Landsbanki, Austurvegur 861 Hvolsvelli - Opið daglega20, frá (kl.480-1400. 9:00 til 18:30 á sumrin, vegagerðar og vélvæðingar frá upphafi 20. aldar. ATM in Samkaup, Tryggvagata 40. og frá kl. 11:00 til 16:00 á veturna. Heimsækið safnabúðina og veitingaskálann í Arion Bank, Austurvegur 10, ( 480-2800, ATM. Sími: 487 8845 · Fax 487 8858 Íslandsbanki, Austurvegur 9, ( 440-3040, ATM. nýja safninu. [email protected] · www.skogasafn.is 480 1990 Kjarninn, Shopping Center, Austurvegur 3-5, ATM. Austurvegur 2 · 800 Selfoss Post Office: tourinfo.arborg.is · [email protected] Austurvegur 26, ( 482-1100. State Alcohol Store: Vallholt 19, ( 482-2011. Local Handicrafts: 44 22 Gallery Viss, Gagnheiði 39, ( 482-1803. Alvara.is, Eyravegur 3, ( 482-4410, woollens and handicrafts. Guðfinna´s Gallery and Workhop, Eyrarvegur 37, 663-7513. Handverk Jóhönnu, wooden toys, Grashagi 1a, ( 694-5282. Museum/Exhibition: Library, and Listagjáin, showroom, Austurvegur 2, ( 480-1980. 1 Sightseeing/Transportation: www.gesthus.is Sterna, ( 551-1166. Daily scheduled coach service: Reykjavík-Selfoss-Hella-Hvolsvöllur-Vík and ReykjavíkGESTHÚS SELFOSSI Selfoss-Brautarholt-Flúðir, www.sterna.is v/Engjaveg - 800 Selfoss Kynnisferðir, ( 580-540. Daily trips to Landmannalaugar 482 3585, 897 7585 - [email protected] June – August. SBA-Norðurleið, Fossnesti, ( 550-0700/482-1266, scheduled tours to Akureyri via Kjölur in summer. Coach service, Guðmundur Tyrfingsson, Fossnesi C, 72 32 ( 482-1210, all kinds of entertaining tours. Events: May 13-16, Arborg Family Festival. 32 32 August 7, “Summer in Selfoss” a family festival. September 4: Brúarhlaup run UMF Selfoss. 0,5 More information: www.arborg.is Dyrhólaeyjarferðir Árborg Swimming Facilities Ferðir á sjó og landi Eitt sögu Opn 11-1 Á öð Tourist Information Byggðasafnið að Skógum Upplýsingamiðstöð 66 ☎ GISTINGAR - ACCOMMODATIO Guesthouse selfoss Tryggvagata 40 208 AROUND ICELAND 482-2100 Open Mon.-Fri.7:30-23:30 Sat. 8:00 – 23:30 Sun. 9:00-23:30 209 AROUND ICELAND apartment hotel H fosstún Eyrarvegur 26 - 800 Selfoss 480 1200 - [email protected] - www.fosstun.is H - Stokkseyri in Árborg - well as a few private museums. The Flói bird conservation area is located north of Eyrarbakki. The seashore is popular for walks and exploration. Population 564. Facilities Maritime Museum Eyrarbakki. - Eyrarbakki in Árborg Eyrarbakki is an old trading post on the seashore, just east of the Ölfusá river estuary. At Eyrarbakki, history is there at every step.The town’s heyday was from the mid-19th century to the early 20th century. A number of houses from around 1900 exist, many of which have been preserved and renovated in recent years. ‘The House’ in Eyrarbakki, built by Danish merchants in 1765, is one of the oldest buildings in Iceland. It now houses the Árnes Folk Museum. The Eyrarbakki Maritime Museum is located a short distance from The House as HANDLE WITH CARE This Icelandic landscape was handpainted on that cup in Japan 1933 for a posh family in Iceland who served coffee in porcelain on Sundays. The whole handpainted collection travelled through Corea on a mule-train, with the Siberian express to Moscow, through Nazi-Germany to northern Europe, onboard a ship set for Iceland. But now you can see that cup in Húsið museum in Eyrarbakki. The Southcoast Museum daily Sept. from am-18 pm í apríl, maí, Opið milli 11 Open og 18 alla dagaMay í júní,15 júlí- og ágúst15 Opið kl. 11 14-17 um helgar sept.at ogother okt. opið á öðrum tímum eftir samkomulagi sími 483www.husid.com 1504 www.husid.com times by arrangement Tel. 483-1504 Accommodation: Suðurgata Guesthouse, Eyrargötu 37a, ( 898-1197/482-1197. Rein Guesthouse, ( 693-3543. Gónhóll, apartment, ( 842-2550. Camping Site: West of the village. Restaurant/Snack Bars: Rauða húsið (The Red House), Búðarstígur 4, ( 483-3330. Leisure and Sport: Merkisteinn, Eyrargötu 49, ( 483-1385. Angling in Ölfusá river. Gónhóll, Eyrargata 51-53, ( 842-2550/483-1280. Health Care Centre: Eyrargata 36b, ( 483-1115. For Motorists: Filling station ÓB Merkisteinn, Eyrargata 49. Museums/ Exhibitions: Húsið, Regional Folk Museum, ( 483-1504, open daily May 15 - Sept 15 from 11-18. At other times by arrangement. www.husid.com Sjóminjasafnið Eyrarbakka, Maritime Museum, Túngata, ( 483-1504, open daily May 15 - Sep. 15, 11-18 or by arrangement. Óðinshús, Eyrargata, ( 896-2866. Gallery and Artist´s Studio. Gallerí Gónhóll, ( 842-2550. Places of Interest and Hiking: Hiking along the shore. Interesting place for birdwatching. The bird sanctuary in Flói. Events: May 13-16, Spring in Árborg. 6.6. Seamen´s Day Festival.. 17.6. National Day. June 26, Midsummernight. July 10, The Icelandic Museums Day is celebrated in the Regional Folk Museum. 210 AROUND ICELAND Stokkseyri is a seaside town, just east of Eyrarbakki. The Stokkseyri shoreline with its many small pools of water is renowned for its beauty and diverse bird life. A rich artistic and cultural life exists in Stokkseyri. The town has a number of artists’ workshops, as well as strong ties with the nation’s ghost, troll and elf myths. There are also museums, and leisure activities for the whole family. Þuríðarbúð is an ancient renovated dwelling, where seamen slept, ate and dwelt during their days ashore. It is named after “foreman” Thurídur Einarsdóttir (1777-1863). Knarrarósviti lighthouse is east from Stokkseyri village, built in funkis and jugend style from designs by architect Guðjón Samúelsson and is the tallest building in South Iceland. Population 464. Facilities Accommodation: Guesthouse Kvöldstjarnan, Stjörnusteinar 7, ( 896-6307. Guesthouse Southcoast, Eyjasel 2, ( 891-8829/482-1626. Camping Site: In the center of the village. Restaurants/Snack Bars: Við fjöruborðið, Eyrarbraut 3a, ( 483-1550, [email protected] www.fjorubordid.is Shell station, Háteinsvegur 2, ( 483-1485. Leisure and Sport: Swimming pool and hot tubs by Stjörnusteinn, ( 483-1567. Kajakaferðir, Stokkseyri, ( 896-5716, Kayaking on lakes and off the shore, [email protected] www.kajak.is Töfragarðurinn, “The Magic Garden”, ( 483-3800, family and amusement park, [email protected] www.tofragardurinn.is Health Care Centre: Eyjasel 2, ( 483-1340. For Motorists: Filling station, Shell station, ( 483-1485. Local Handicraft: Arts and Culturecentre, Hafnargata 9, ( 486-1600/894-291, artists’ workshops, and a gallery. Sjöfn Har Listaskálinn Stokkseyri, atelier, Hafnargata 6, ( 894-0367/568-0404. Museum/ Exhibition: Þuríðarbúð, ( 483-1302/483-1267, a Bunkhouse and museum on ancient workmanship. The dairy farm at Baugsstadir, ( 486-3369, open by appointment. The Ghost Centre, ( 483-1202, open daily in summer 14-21, in winter on weekends 14-18. Icelandic Wonders Museum, Hafnargata 9, (483-1202/895-0020, dedicated to elves, trolls and the northern lights. The Hunting Museum, Eyrarbraut 49, ( 483-1558, collection of mounted animals, firearms and artifacts, open by arrangement, ( 483-1558. Places of Interest and Hiking: Knarrarósviti (lighthouse) west of the farm Baugsstaðir, ( 486-3369. Events: June 6, Seamen´s Weekend Festival. July 16-18, Pier Festival. July 30-Aug. 2, Faroese Family Days www.stokkseyri.is by the sea and a delicious lobster at Fjöruborðið in Stokkseyri < only 45 minutes drive from Reykjavík Eyrarbraut 3 · 825 Stokkseyri · Iceland · tel. +354-483 1550 fax. +354- 483 1545 · [email protected] · www.fjorubordid.is 211 AROUND ICELAND Sleggjubeinsdalur, by the geothermal water borehole. Rjúpnabrekkur, inland from Hveragerði. Lake Úlfljótsvatn, by the scouts’ huts. Lake Ölfusvatn, by the bridge over Ölfusvatnsá river. Nesjavellir, by Nesbúð. Kýrdalsbrúnir, above Nesjavellir. Botnadalur in Dyrafjöll. Dyradalur in Dyrafjöll. A map of the Hengill area has been published, as well a book describing the topography, geology and hiking paths. z Selvogur. Bays on the south- west coast, tranquil with rich bird life. The original Strandarkirkja church is said to have been built by shipwrecked seamen whose prayers for rescue were miraculously answered. Even today, many people still pledge donations to the church in the hope of help to overcome illness or adversity. z Herdísarvík is an old fishing centre, where poet and campaigner for progress Einar Benediktsson (1864-1940) spent the last years of his life in the small black timber house now owned by the University of Iceland. bergið þorlákshöfn. Places of Interest/Excursions: Hiking paths in the Hengill mountain area, maps available at the Hellisheiði Power Plant, Tourist Information Centre in Hveragerði and at the Municipal Library in Þorlákshöfn. Hiking trails on the coast and to Mt. Geitafell, see map available at tourist information centres. - Þorlákshöfn Þorlákshöfn is a town by the Ölfusá river. It was a seasonal fishing centre for centuries, but after the Westman Island eruption in 1973 major harbour improvements were made, strengthening the town’s fisheries industry. When the Óseyrarbrú bridge was completed a few years ago, communication between Þorlákshöfn and the south-coast communities greatly increased. Population 1,559. Facilities Ölfus Information Centre: Tourist Information, Municipal Library, Hafnarberg 1, ( 480-3830, [email protected] www.bokasafn.is Camping Site: By the sport centre, Hafnarberg 41, ( 483-3807. Restaurants/Snack Bars: Ráðhúskaffi, Hafnarberg1, ( 483-1700. Skálinn, Óseyrarbraut 17, ( 483-3801. Svarti sauðurinn, Unubakki 4, ( 483 3363 Leisure and Sport: Swimming pool, Sport Centre, ( 483-3807. Golf, 18 holes by Óseyrarbraut, ( 483-3009. Benna golf, golf simulator, Hraunbakki, ( 894-1088. Hiking trails and leisure areas north of the town. Health Care Centre: Selvogsbraut 24, ( 480-5240. Pharmacy: Lyf og heilsa, Selvogsbraut 41, ( 483-3868. For Motorists: Filling station, garage, tyre repair. Bank/Post Office: Landsbankinn, Hafnarberg 1, ( 410-4000. ATM in the shop Skálinn, Óseyrarbraut 15. State Alcohol Store: Selvogsbraut 4, ( 483-3585. Local Handicrafts: Blómastúdíó Brynju, Hafnarberg 1, ( 483-3088/690-3915. Museum/Exhibition: Municipal Library, Hafnarberg 1, ( 480-3830, art exhibitions and mounted fishes on display. Places of interest: Þorlákshöfn church, open during summer. Walking paths and information signs in the town. Karlsminni, a monument north of the town. Outdoor photo exhibition in the City Hall Park. Transportation: Sterna, ( 551-1166, scheduled coach service daily to Reykjavík, www.sterna.is Events: April 22, First Day of Summer, opening of outdoor photo exhibition in the City Hall Park. June 4 - 6, Pier Festival. June 6, Seamen´s Weekend Festival. For more information visit www.olfus.is Facilities - Ölfus Ölfus is an area in Árnessýsla district bordered by Ölfusá river in the east, and the Árnessýsla borders in the west. In the far east the land is characterised by marshes and graben, while in the west are mountains and the Hellisheiði heath. Agriculture is prominent in Ölfus, although residents increasingly commute to work in Reykjavík or Selfoss, for example. The residential areas of Hveragerði, Þorlákshöfn and Árbæjarhverfi are considered part of Ölfus, despite the fact that Hveragerði is its own municipality. Mt. Hengill area. The area around the volcanic Mt. Hengill is an ideal place to enjoy outdoor activities. Many interesting paths, covering a total of 125 km, have been marked there by the Reykjavík District Heating Company, which harnesses hot water for the capital’s central heating in the geothermal fields. There are car parks and information posters with maps where the walks start. Paths vary greatly in difficulty, so hikers must get the necessary information before setting off. Walks start at the car parks located in the following places: Accommodation: 895. Ölfusborgir, ( 483-4260. 895. Hjarðarból, ( 567-4203. 895. Hótel Eldhestar, Vellir, ( 480-4800/483-4884. 895. Akurgerði, chalets, ( 483-4449. 895. Gljúfur, chalets, ( 483-4461. 896. Núpar I-II, ( 483-5066/898-6107. 897. Hótel Hlíð, Króki, ( 483-5444, [email protected] www.hotel-hlid.is 897. Hlíðarskóli (groups only) ( 896-6026/690-8779. 898. T-bær, Selvogur, ( 483-3150. Camping Site: 898. T-Bær in Selvogur, ( 483-3150. Restaurants/Snack Bars: T-Bær in Selvogur, ( 483-3150. Skíðaskálinn, The Ski Lodge, Hveradalir, ( 567-2020. Litla kaffistofan by Road 1, Svínahraun, ( 557-7601. Básinn - Ingólfsskáli, Efstaland, ( 483-4160. Hótel Hlíð, Króki, ( 483-5444. Hafið bláa at Óseyrarbrú, ( 483-1000. Leisure/Sport: Horse Rental Eldhestar, Vellir, ( 480-4800/483-4884. Angling in Hlíðarvatn, Stangveiðifélagið Árblik, ( 483-3848. Angling in Þorleifslækur Creek , ( 557-6100. Local Handicrafts: Ceramics gallery, Hraun, ( 862-5077. 212 AROUND ICELAND 213 AROUND ICELAND Tourist Information Suðurlands Centre Upplýsingamiðstöð Sunnumörk, Verslunarmiðstöðinni Sunnumörk, 810 Hveragerði Hveragerði 810 Tel: 483 483483 4604 Sími: 4834601, 4601,fax Fax: 4604 E-mail: [email protected] Netfang: [email protected] www.southiceland.is www.southiceland.is Swimming pool Laugaskarð Sundlaugin Laugaskarði 810 Hveragerði Hveragerði 810 Tel: 483 Sími: 4834113 4113 The Geothermal Area Hverasvæðið í miðbænum Hveramörk 13, Hveramörk 13,810 810Hveragerði Hveragerði Tel: 483483 5062, 660660 3905 Símar: 5062, 3905 E-mail: [email protected] Netfang: [email protected] www.hveragerdi.is www.hveragerdi.is www.southiceland.is www.southiceland.is Camping SiteReykjamörk Tjaldsvæðið Reykjamörk, 810 Hveragerði 810 Hveragerði Tel: 483483 4605, 660660 3905 9208 Símar: 4605, 3905 The Swimming Pool in Hveragerði. - HVERAGERÐI - Facilities Hveragerði is situated beneath Mt. Kambar in Ölfus. The Varmá river runs alongside and through the town. The State Horticultural College is in Hveragerði.The town’s first house was built in 1929, and the first greenhouses followed shortly thereafter. The economy is based on horticulture, in addition to tourist services. A sanatorium operated by the Icelandic Nature Health Society is operated there. Population 2,302. www.hotel-ork.is 170 85 H HÓTEL ÖRK 85 85 Breiðamörk 1c - 810 Hveragerði ✆ 483 4700 - Fax 483 4775 - [email protected] Tourist Information Centre: South Iceland Information Centre, in the Shopping Centre at Sunnumörk, ( 483-4601/660-3905, fax: 483-4604. Open summer, weekdays 9-17, Sat. 10-14. In winter weekdays 9-16:30, weekend closed. Access to the internet. [email protected] www.hveragerdi.is www.southiceland.is Accommodation: Hotel Örk, Breiðamörk 1c, ( 483-4700, [email protected] www.hotel-ork.is Gh. Frumskógar, Frumskógar 3, ( 896-2780. Gh. Frost og Funi, Hverahamar, ( 483-4959. Camping Site: By Reykjamörk, ( 483-4605/660-9280. Restaurants/Snack Bars: Hotel Örk, Breiðamörk 1c, ( 483-4700. Hverabakarí, Conditorí, Breiðamörk 10, ( 483-4879. Hoflandssetrið, Breiðamörk 2, ( 483-4467. Kjöt & kúnst, Breiðamörk 21, ( 483-5010. Shell station, Austurmörk 22, ( 483-4221. Iðavellir, Austurmörk 25, ( 483-3300. Matstofa NLFÍ, vegetarian restaurant, Grænamörk 10, ( 483-0300, order in advance. Almar´s Bakery, Sunnumörk 2-4, ( 483-1919. Leisure and Sport: Swimming pool, Laugaskarð, ( 483-4113. Hotel Örk, ( 483-4700, swimming pool, pitch, putt and tennis court. 214 AROUND ICELAND 220-volt electricity, toilet waste disposal Rafmagn 220W, losun WC, skolun WC,facilities, flushing drykkjavatns, toilet, refill drinking water,þurrkari washing áfylling þvottavél, machine, dryer. www.hveragerdi.is Golf, Gufudalsvöllur, 9 holes, ( 483-5090. Health Care Centre: Breiðamörk 25b, ( 483-5050. Pharmacy: Lyf og heilsa, Breiðamörk 25, ( 483-4197. For Motorists: Filling stations, garage, tyre repair. Bank: Arion Bank, ( 480-4500, ATM. Sparisjóðurinn ( 480-2200, Sunnumörk 2-4. Post Office: In the Shopping Centre at Sunnumörk, ( 483-4601. Local Handicrafts: Gallerí Smiðja, Kambahraun 57, ( 483-4420, ceramics. Museum/Exhibition: Listasafn Árnesinga, art gallery, Austurmörk 21, ( 483-1727. Places of Interest and Hikes: Fieldtrip to geothermal area, Hveramörk 13, ( 483-5062/ 660-3905, information about the geothermal field and geothermal biology. Illuminated earthquake fissure; earth-quake simulator in the Information Centre at Sunnumörk 2-4. Open in summer, by appoinment in winter. Transportation: Strætó, Shell Kiosk, scheduled coach service daily to Reykjavík. Events: April 22, The First Day of Summer. Invitation to the Garðyrkjuskóli ríkisins “The Agricultural School” at Reykir. June 24.-27. Blóm í bæ. The Garden and Flower Exhibition 2010. August 20-22: “Blooming days,” a local Family Festival. - Westman Islands z The Westman Islands are a group of 15-18 islands, depending on how they are classed, and about 30 skerries and rock pillars, located off the mainland’s south coast. The islands were formed by submarine volcanic eruptions along a 30-km long fissure lying southwest to northeast. The largest and only inhabited island is Heimaey, 13.4 km2. Most of the islands have steep sea cliffs, and are well vegetated. Bird hunting and egg collecting are traditional to the islanders’ culture. The Westman Islands are part of the Icelandic Settlement. Founder Ingólfur Arnarson found his half-broth-er, Hjörleifur, dead at Hjörleifshöfði. He had been killed by his slaves who escaped to the Westman Island. Ingólfur followed them and killed them all. Since then the islands have been associated with the slaves, as they were Vestmenn (Irish and ‘from the west’). The most tragic event in the island’s history occurred when Algerian pirates raided the island in 1627, killing and torturing the people and taking 242 into captivity, eventually selling them into slavery. On 23 January 1973 an eruption began on Heimaey that dramatically affected the lives of the inhabitants. Almost all residents were evacuated to the mainland in one drama- Puffins in Vestmannaeyjar. filled night. The eruption ended in June and many people began returning home. Since then the Westman Islands have been a popular tourist destination. Klettsvík cove in Heimaey was the home of Keiko the killer whale until two years ago when he swam to Norway, where he died of pneumonia in December 2003. In 2000 a Norse timber church, a gift from the Norwegians to commemorate 1000 years since Christianity was accepted in Iceland, was consecrated on Heimaey. The only church of its type in Iceland, it has been situated at the Skanssvæði area where a stone wall, built after the Turkish kidnapping in 1627 occurred, has been rebuilt. Population 4,129. From July 1st from Landeyjahöfn 25 min. 216 AROUND ICELAND 217 AROUND ICELAND H H Post Office: Vestmannabraut 22, ( 481-1000. GISTINGAR - ACCOMMODATION - UNTERKUNFT State Alcohol Store: Facilities Police: Faxastígur 42, ( 481-1666. Tourist Information Centre: Museum House at Ráðhúströð, ( 481-3555, [email protected], [email protected] www.vestmannaeyjar.is Accommodation: ***Hótel Þórshamar, Vestmannabraut 28, ( 481-2900, Gh. Sunnuhóll, Vestmannabraut 26, ( 481-2900, Gh. Hótel Mamma, Vestmannabraut 25, ( 481-2900, [email protected] www.hotelvestmannaeyjar.is Gistihúsið Hamar, Herjólfsgata 4, ( 481-3400, [email protected] www.hotelvestmannaeyjar.is Hótel Eyjar, Bárustígur 2, ( 481-3636/895-8350, Gh. Árný, Illugagata 7, /Fax 481-2082/899-2582. Gh. Hreiðrið, Faxastígur 33, ( 481-1045/699-8945, Gh. Hvíld, Höfðavegur 16, ( 481-1230/898-9673, [email protected] www.simnet.is/hvild Gh. Kirkjuvegur 28, ( 864-4020/ 567-0790. Gh. Heiðarvegur 3, ( 898-6448. RB gisting, Kirkjuvegur 10a, ( 481-1569/2009/897-7539. Smáhýsi, Ofanleitisvegur 2, ( 481-1109/695-2309. Eyjabústaðir, Ofanleiti, ( 864-2064/481-1664. Camping Site: In Herjólfsdalur, ( 692-6952. Restaurants/Snack Bars: Café María, Skólavegur 1, ( 481-3160. Fjólan restaurant, Vestmannabraut 28, ( 481-3663. Lundinn, Kirkjuvegur 21, ( 481-3412/896-3426, groups. Pizza 67, Heiðarvegur 5, ( 481-1567. Skýlið við Friðarhöfn, ( 481-1445/897-1155. 44 Prófasturinn, Heiðarvegur 3, ( 481-3700/896-3426, groups. Toppurinn, Heiðarvegur 10, ( 481-3313. Tvisturinn, Faxastígur 36, ( 481-3141/897-6665. Bakeries: Vilberg kökuhús, Bárustígur 7, ( 481-2664. Bakstur og veisla, Hólagata 28, ( 481-2424. Leisure and Sport: 1 Swimming pool and Sport-Centre, ( 481-2401/2402, www.gesthus.is Hressó gym, Strandvegur 65, ( 481-1482. Golf, Herjólfsdalur, 18 holes, open almost all year, GESTHÚS SELFOSSI ( 481-2363. v/Engjaveg - 800 Selfoss Marked hiking trails, also 482 for beginners. 3585, 897 7585 - [email protected] Hospital: Sólhlíð 10, ( 481-1955. Pharmacy: Lyf og Heilsa, Strandvegur 48, ( 481-3900. For Motorists: Filling station, garage, tyre repair. Car Rentals: Eyjabílar, ( 899-2589. Eyjataxi, ( 698-2038. Bank: Íslandsbanki, Kirkjuvegur 23, ( 440-3000, ATM. Sparisjóður Vestmannaeyja, Bárustígur 15, ( 488-2100, ATM. ATM in the supermarket 11-11, at Goðahraun. 42 14 Strandvegur 50, ( 481-1301. 42 14 Local Handicrafts: 72 32 Gallery Heimalist, Strandvegur 39, ( 481-2250. Gallerí Guðnýjar, Vesturvegur 22, ( 481-3084. Gallerí Steinu, Vestmannabraut 36, ( 481-3208.32 32 1 1,5 Gallerí Prýði, Kirkjuvegur 10a, ( 481-1569. 1 1,5 Aning_P054-067 -´08 20.11.2007 17:03 Page 67 Museums/ Exhibitions: 0,5 1,5 Náttúrugripasafn Vestmannaeyja, Natural History Museum, Heiðarvegur 12, ( 481-1997, open daily May 1 - Sept. 15 from 11-17. Winter at weekends from 15-17 and by arr. ( 899-2540, [email protected], www.vestmannaeyjar.is/safnahus. Herjólfsgata 4 - 900 Vestmannaeyjar FOSSTÚN ÍBÚÐAHÓTEL Folk Museum, ( 481-1194, open daily from May 1 - Sept 15 481 3400 - Fax 481 1696 - [email protected] Eyravegur 26 800 Selfoss from 11-17, in the winter weekends 15-17 480 1200 - [email protected] - www.fosstun.is and by arrangem. ( 863-8963, [email protected], tourist.eyjar.is 22 22 www.vestmannaeyjar.is/safnahus/ 23 25 Volcanic Film Show for tourists at the community centre at 1 1 Heiðarvegur, ( 481-1045/694-8945, daily in summer 0,5 and by appointment in winter. 1,5 Skanssvæðið area: 1,5 0,9 Stafkirkjan (replica of an old Norwegian church) – Aning_P054-067 -´08 17:03 Page 67 Landlyst open 11-17 during 20.11.2007 summer and by arrangement during winter, ( 481-1194/863-8963/481-1149. Sightseeing/Hiking: Viking tours, ( 488-4884/896-8986, daily boat and bus tours. Also special tours for 10 persons or more. Bird or whale GISTIHEIMILIÐ HREIÐRIÐ Vestmannabraut 25 - 900 Vestmannaeyjar watching and angling. Faxastígur 33 - 900 Vestmannaeyjar 481 2900 Fax 481 1696 [email protected] Eyjaferðir, 481-1045/699-8945, sightseeing tours by bus 481 1045 - 699 8945 - Fax 481- 1414 - [email protected] and hiking tours. 67 67 Transportation: www.freewebs.com/kvoldstjarnan tourist.eyjar.is Herjólfur, car and passenger ferry, ( 481-2800, scheduled 42 21 30 30 25 10 23 4 ferry service daily between Þorlákshöfn and Westman Islands until June 30, between Landeyjahöfn and Westman 21 Islands, from July 1, [email protected], www.herjolfur.is 0,5 4 Flugfélag Íslands, ( 481-3300, daily scheduled air service between Westman Islands and Reykjavík. 1 0,2 0,5 0,9 12 Flugfélag Vestmannaeyja, ( 481-3255, flights to Bakki, Hús í fallegu, also Selfoss and Reykjavík, charter flights. 1,5 sögufrægu sjávarþorpi Events: við suðurströndina, LÍTIÐ ÁSTARHREIÐUR 30 mín. frá Reykjavík First weekend in July, The end of the eruption of 1973 in the Westmann Islands remembered in Skvísusund. July 30 - Aug. 2, National holidayHREIÐRIÐ festival (bank holiday). SUÐURGATA GUESTHOUSE GISTIHEIMILIÐ ÁRNÝ GISTIHEIMILIÐ KVÖLDSTJARNAN Vestmannabraut 28b Vestmannaeyjar - 900 Vestmannaeyjar all summer. GolfStokkseyri adventure for kids. Illugagata 7 - 900 Faxastígur 33 900 Vestmannaeyjar Störnusteinar 7 - -825 Eyrargata 37a - 820 Eyrarbakki 482 1197, 898 1197 Golf tournaments 262 22 265 G G H guesthouse HAMAR GISTINGAR - ACCOMMODATIO 27 268 guesthouse hótel mamma G G G G GISTINGAR - ACCOMMODATION - UNTERKUNFT 263 268 266 270 G G G483 1800, 481 1045 - 699 8945- [email protected] Fax 481 1414 - [email protected] 896 6307 H [email protected] - www.sudurgisting.is 21 4,5 15 42 15 21 5 21 0,5 * SUMARHÚS AKURGERÐI II Akurgerði II Ölfusi - 801 Selfoss 893 9814 - [email protected] GH guesthouse hvíld Höfðavegur 16 - 900 Vestmannaeyjar 481 1230 - [email protected] 28 1 30 1 1,5 1 * Scooter rent Vespu leiga 66 29002082 - Fax -481 1696 - [email protected] G 481481 899 2582 - Fax 481 2082 www.simnet.is/hvild 264 218 AROUND ICELAND hótel þórshamar 1,5 guesthouse sunnuhóll Vestmannabraut 28b - 900 Vestmannaeyjar 481 2900 - Fax 481 1696 - [email protected] 219 AROUND ICELAND 42 14 G