Swimming Pools
Most Icelandic pools are geothermally heated and most are out of doors. They are fun to use even in winter and many of them have hot pots, which are ideal for relaxing. Pools are supervised but visiting staff should also accompany their students. The main Reykjavik pool is adjacent to the Youth Hostel. It is an outdoor pool, which also has hot pots and a relaxing communal Jacuzzi.
Payable locally.
Blue Lagoon
One of Iceland's premier attractions and conveniently located close to Keflavik Airport, the Blue Lagoon is set amidst a field of black basalt lava. The temperature averages a relaxing 35-40°C and the powder-blue mineral rich waters have many beneficial properties. The warm seawater is used to heat up fresh water, which is then pumped into homes on the Reykjanes Peninsula. The concept is ingenious, the experience therapeutic and totally relaxing.
From £10.50
Whale watching
The coastal waters off Reykjavik offer some excellent whale watching, proving very convenient for those with time on their hands in the capital. During the 3-hour cruise sightings of white-beaked dolphins and minke whales are likely and occasionally other species such as humpback and orca can be spotted along with puffins, fulmars, gannets and kittiwakes. Trips are weather dependent and operate from April through to September usually with morning and afternoon departures. There are many other places in Iceland where whale watching takes place, the two best areas being Olafsvik in the West and Husavik in the North.
From £13.50
Ice Cap Travel
Most convenient to our programme is the facility on the south side of the Myrdalsjokull icecap close to the farm accommodation near Vik. The trip involves driving right up high to the icecap margin where there is a mountain hut with facilities. Groups travel onto the icecap (in a special trailer behind a tracked vehicle) to experience and learn about the icecap and its underlying volcano. Those with driving licences and at additional cost can opt to drive snowmobiles. All-in-one suits and snowboots can be provided if the conditions require their use.
From £42
Horse Riding
A horse riding trek is and ideal way to experience some of the island's fascinating landscapes. Icelandic horses are a pure breed with a unique movement. Though small they are sturdy and sure-footed on rough ground and can carry a rider for hours. Expert tuition is given and with experienced guides and quality equipment these trips are suitable for all abilities. Most treks operate from a farm near Hveragerdi.
From £19
River Rafting
Rafting trips operate on the Hvita River starting just below the waterfall Gullfoss. Large rubber dinghies are used and navigated by very experienced and qualified rafters. Suits and life vests are provided. Variety of grades, thus suitable for all levels.
From £42
Westman Islands
Take a scenic flight to the island of Heimaey, the largest of the Westman Islands, where a volcanic eruption in 1973 destroyed much of the main town. Departing from an airstrip near to Hvollsvollur and travelling aboard a light aircraft, it is about 15 minutes each way. The visit incorporates a bus tour of the island in the morning and a boat trip around the island in the afternoon. Both are fascinating.
From £87.50
Optional Activities for Groups Staying Overnight in Reykjavik
Volcano Show
Every eruption since that of Hekla in 1948 has been filmed by Osvaldur Knudson or his son Vilhjalmur who presents the show every night in Reykjavik. We suggest it as a first night activity. Transfer to and from the venue is at additional cost. Show at 8pm daily.
From £2
Ten Pin Bowling
Not particularly Icelandic but an alternative evening activity if required. Transfer to and from the venue south of the city close to the Perlan centre, is at additional cost. Open midday - midnight daily.
From £5.50
Ice Skating
Available in winter at the rink behind the Youth Hostel, which is about a 10 minutes walk. Open Mon - Thu 10am - 3pm; Wed & Thurs 5am - 7.30pm; Fri 10am - 10pm; Sat & Sun 1 - 6pm.
From £7
Thvottalaugarnar
Adjacent to the Botanical Gardens and close to the Youth Hostel is the place where the people of Reykjavik used to come to wash their clothes in the hot springs. The springs are 'dead' now but the remains of the facilities can be seen together with several panels of an exhibit. In any case the whole park is very pleasant with plenty of walkways, which are lit at night.
Free
Arbaejarsafn Folk Museum
The Reykjavik City folk museum contains re-constructed houses from turf houses onwards and many artefacts to show life through the ages.
Free
Note:
We would recommend pre-booking most of the activities to ensure availability and in some cases pre-booking is necessary.
There are no free places for staff on Optional Activities