A quick guide to Reykjavik
A mystical island, where the hand of nature shapes an ever-changing, diverse and magical landscape of stark contrasts. Mountains, volcanoes, glaciers and fjords, guises, hot springs and mud pools. Will you witness the splendour of the spectacular aurora borealis? An awe-inspiring kaleidoscope of verdant hues. Perhaps you will take a long relaxing soak in the thermal pools of the Blue Lagoon. Will you opt to smooth restorative “mud” (silica deposits) over your skin or rejoice in the splendour of witnessing “Geyser” the original hot water spout after which all other geysers are named?
However you decide to spend your time in Reykjavik, the world’s most northerly capital, be sure to sample the salted liquorice! If visiting during the Christmas period, warm up with a jolaglogg, a vodka infused mulled wine!
Check out our SNAPSHOT quick guide to Reykjavik to help get you started.
What are “huldufolk?”
Elves, or Huldufolf, meaning hidden people, are an intrinsic and beloved part of Icelandic folklore. They feature in many traditional folk tales which stress the importance of strong moral values and upholding harmony with nature. These “elves” reside within little houses within the rocks and have been known to “borrow” things from their human friends. The belief that peace should be kept with the elves, is of high priority and importance. Building projects have been known to be diverted and “compromises” reached between contractors and elves with the help of a “seer” who acts as an intermediary.
Hafnarfjordur, elf capital of Iceland
If you are interested in finding out more about Huldufolk, you can take a public bus, route 1, from Reykjavik to Hafnarfjordur (approx 20 minutes) Hafnarfjordur is renowned for being the elf capital of Iceland. For a unique experience, join “Sibba” (Sigurbjorg Karlsdottir) for a “Hidden World Walking Tour.” Sibba, is a storyteller and expert in all things elf.
Alternatively, purchase a map from the tourist information, which details the whereabouts of the famous “elf” spots. You could lead your own little tour and although won’t get to ask a myriad of questions you will discover where the best place is to spot an elf.
We, unfortunately, did not get to see an elf… or the Northern Lights! So have 2 excellent reasons to return to Iceland another day…
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