UNDER THE SKIN O F ICELAND

UNDER THE SKIN O F ICELAND

AN INTRODUCTION

UNDER THE SKIN OF ICELAND There are some places that no matter how many times you visit, there s always more to explore. Home to dramatic landscapes, the Northern Lights, adrenalin-pumping activities and creative cuisine Iceland is a land of endless possibilities. Culturally it blazes its own path; its people are makers, creators, explorers, and live with a deep connection to the raw nature that surrounds them. While the inspirational scenery makes travelling through Iceland feel like moving through a Hollywood film set. This guide gets you under the skin and immersed in the undeniable magic of this location. Here we ve given you an edit of the best things to do and places to go with all of the must-sees, newest hotels and some of our favourite hidden spots inbetween. Get ready to get under the skin of Iceland. 2

H GREENLAND SEA Húnaflói Breiðafjörður SNÆFELLSNES PENINSULA Langjökull Faxaflói Skálafell Gullfoss Water Silfra REYKJAVÍK Thrihnukagigur Volcano Blue Lagoon Mýrdals Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands)

ofsjökull fall Vatnajökull jökull ATLANTIC OCEAN

ICELAND: A CREATIVE MUSE Deep volcanoes, glittering ice caves and a dramatic black coastline it s no wonder that Iceland s landscapes have inspired visions of far flung worlds for many a writer and film-maker. Here are our favourite examples of how Iceland has played the creative muse: Tolkien s Middle Earth It s not hard to imagine a Hobbit opening the door of Iceland s turf houses; Icelandic literature served as much inspiration to JRR Tolkien s world-renowned books. Vern s Journey One of the first to discover Iceland s inspiring landscapes is Jules Verne. You can thank the myth-rich Snaefellsnes Peninsula for his Journey to the Centre of the Earth.

Walter Mitty s Adventureland The whole film was shot here, including those epic skateboarding scenes, with Iceland posing as Greenland, the Himalayas and Afghanistan. John Snow s Seven Kingdoms Iceland has been backdrop to many Game of Thrones scenes, from the land beyond the wall to caves and wildling strongholds. It remains a key set location. The Literature Creds Iceland s population boasts the highest percentage of writers in the world with Reykjavik one of only six UNESCO Cities of Literature your writer s retreat sorted then. Channel your best Jules Vern taking in the sights and sounds that inspired his epic Journey to the Center of the Earth by delving underground volcanoes, flying over waterfalls and glaciers, and horseback riding along its brooding beaches; it s enough to inspire the inner writer in us all.

AN ICELANDIC SUMMER SOJOURN

UNDER THE SKIN OF ICELAND Summer in Iceland spells green mountains, wildflower meadows and endless sunlight for exploring all day (and night). And with glaciers, flowing fjords, farms and rainbowarched waterfalls all within reach of the capital, there s plenty for the whole family to explore. Here are our top Icelandic summer adventures. 8

SUMMER FAMILY ACTIVITIES The Golden Circle Marvel at the blast of an erupting Geysir, trace the cracked earth along a tectonic rift, and take in the immense Gullfoss waterfall. This epic circuit makes it onto every itinerary for good reason. Saddle up Famous for their unique fifth gait and beautiful colouring, Icelandic horses are unchanged since Viking times and are a great seat from which to appreciate the beautiful landscapes for both the young and young at heart. Safari in the Westman Islands Go full throttle with a RIB boat safari around these islands peppered with sea caves which every summer becomes the largest nesting ground of the North American Puffin. Traverse a glacier For the more intrepid family, strap on those crampons and enjoy a short journey over the frozen beauty of one of Iceland s majestic glaciers. Memorable family moments come guaranteed. Discover the heart of Reykjavik Reykjavik s quaint architecture, restaurants, swimming pools, shops, galleries and museums make exploring the city together a total delight.

This summer sojourn rolls all of these adventures into one incredible trip with a few animal encounters in some Icelandic farms thrown in, so plenty to keep the whole family entertained.

If you can t decide which adventure to take, why not test your limits with a trip that combines all of these adrenaline-inducing activities in one extreme Icelandic excursion:

EXTREME EXCURSIONS IN ICELAND Iceland lends itself to adventure like no other place. From wild swimming in its natural geothermal pools to walking inside volcano magma chambers, or heli-skiing on powder-soft and remote mountaintops, there s more than one way to get your heart racing. Adventure on foot Explore the angular ridges and hidden crevasses as you navigate the Highland mountains for your adrenaline fix. Only accessible in summer, the views of this remote wilderness, all to yourself, will be an unforgettable reward. Explore by air The best way to appreciate Iceland s arresting scenery is from above. Jump into a private helicopter and marvel at snowcapped volcanoes or crashing coastlines it s heart-thumping and a must-do. Delve underground This is one experience you won t find anywhere else. Venture 120 meters beneath the surface of the earth into the giant magma chamber of the dormant Thrihnukagigur volcano to walk on its chamber floor. Journey on wheels Petrol heads can get their metrics of Iceland s geological wonders by speeding across them on a monster truck or quad bike. The Reykjanes countryside is where you can race between hills and craters rippled red with minerals. Dive between the earth Dive the Silfra tectonic fissure and glide between tectonic plates framed by the cobalt blue of crystal-clear glacial waters. Whether you dive in winter or summer; both offer a surreal experience. Speed on skis Heli-skiing on virgin snow on the Troll Peninsula is another thrilling adventure kick. Or try being pulled across the white expanses of Skalafell by the power of eight husky s stampeding in unison.

UNDER THE SKIN OF ICELAND THE ICELANDIC WELLNESS FIX For a slower pace, Iceland also where you can still experience the full power of nature s healing. Let its natural wonders rejuvenate, its striking landscapes calm, and feel refreshed in both mind and body with our favourite ways to get your wellness fix in Iceland. The Blue Lagoon A true oasis of relaxation and an absolute must do let the mineralrich waters heal your body, the weightlessness of an in-water massage soothe your mind; and the famous silica mud mask cleanse your skin leaving you feeling completely renewed. Geothermal pools Ingrained in Icelandic culture, an outdoor soak in one of the geothermal pools that dot the city and countryside is a true Icelandic experience. Choose between wild and natural or manmade local pools. Yoga For the yogis out there Iceland has retreats for all levels, but a wilderness session under the midnight sun surrounded by Iceland s pristine nature is our pick for feeling magically Zen. 13

UNDER THE SKIN OF THE CITY

UNDER THE SKIN OF ICELAND Considering the vast amount going on in Reykjavik, it can come as a surprise that it is one of the smallest capital cities in the world. Explore the cool cafés, hidden cocktail bars, hip micro-breweries and boutique stores and try unrivalled nightlife under the glow of the Northern Lights. 16

BEST PLACES FOR FOOD & DRINK Well-crafted cocktails and world-class seafood are the order of the day in Iceland s sophisticated capital; with the foodie scene growing rapidly let us guide you in the right direction.

WHERE TO DINE: Geiri Smart Restaurant Quality produce is what sets the pace at Geiri Smart, the signature restaurant at Canopy by Hilton hotel. Menus change constantly according to available ingredients and the wine list is second to none, making it one of Reykjavik s most innovative dining experiences. The Coocoo s Nest Locals head to The Coocoo s Nest for the city s best brunch, tucked away amid Grandagardur s hip boutiques. Its first come, first serve, so get there early to grab a stool at the wooden bar and order the egg Florentine with blue cheese sauce. Dill This is one of Reykjavik s cult culinary hotspots and the city s first Michelin star. Chef Gunnar Karl Gislason and sommelier Olafur Orn Olafasson craft seasonal New Nordic plates that change weekly, paired with delicious wines. Snaps You ll find a hip young crowd catching up over a coffee and blueberry pancakes by day, or a Reyka Martini by night, at this laid-back bistro. The space is bright with aqua tones and industrial touches, with a simple menu that puts an Icelandic twist on sandwiches, salads and brunch favourites. WHERE TO DRINK: Kaldi Bar Cosy nooks splashed with tartan and industrial lighting give this trendy Reykjavik bar an urban edge. An edit of the best craft beers and cocktails await you behind the bar, while the music provides the soundtrack to a night out on the tiles. Mikkeler & Friends Many beeline to Micro Bar for a taste of Iceland s growing craft beers, but this micro-brewery is where you ll find the best buzz after dark. Stylish locals start with pizza downstairs. Slippbarinn Overlooking the quaint Old Harbour is this funky bar where indoor fire pits and colourful interiors set the tone. Expert mixologists serve Basil Gimlets and other creative concoctions while you tuck into sharing plates and soak up live music and jazz.

THE NEW CITY BOLTHOLES Part of the draw of Iceland is its sophisticated hotels that effortlessly mix old and new. We ve picked our favourite new places to stay that do both with elegant flair. Reykjavik Marina Residence Views of the old harbour where fishing boats bobs make these private apartments one of our favourite stays. Previously a paint factory, interiors combine industrial touches with traditional charm. Relax with a book by the lux open fire in the lounge or sample the nearby boutiques and waterfront restaurants.

Canopy by Hilton The quirky design references this hotel s history as the site of Reykjavik s underground musical hotspot. Homage is paid to rock bands and local artists throughout, including within 115 luxurious and eclectic rooms that each have their own individual size and style. Add to that complimentary drinks tastings, a hip café favoured by local creatives, record players and a selection of vinyl for in-room entertainment, and a stellar restaurant this is urban sophisticated to a T. 20

BEFORE YOU GO TRAVEL INFORMATION SUMMARY When to go: Iceland offers different experiences throughout the year. September through to April are the best times to spot the Northern Lights. Winter also provides an opportunity to escape the summer crowds, ice caves are open and

glaciers are glowing blue. February and March offer the best time for wildlife spotting, puffins being a sure sighting, whilst the summer months give long light days to pack in activity when roads are more accessible and the Highlands open up. The chance dive in Silfra is open year round. Getting there: Direct flights to Keflavik Airport, 35 minutes outside of Reykjavík, are available worldwide. Flight times from London and New York are approximately 3 and 5hrs 30mins respectively.