Short-break holiday ideas in Reykjavik

Hyperbolic press coverage of late has tended to suggest Iceland has been battling for its very survival, locked in a mortal battle with irrepressible financial demons. Financiers, who so recently bestrode the UK High Street making purchases at their leisure, are now reported to have been brought to their knees as the remnants of the Icelandic economy crumble around them.

As such, when arriving in the country one could be forgiven for expecting the worst; banks set ablaze by angry citizens exacting their revenge on corporate greed and a nation in ruins after the past hedonistic decade came to a shuddering close.

Predictably, this is not quite the case.

Iceland continues much as it ever has. Indeed, the recent financial turmoil has provided a welcome boon to travellers looking to explore this enigmatic country - lying half way between Europe and North America. The notoriously expensive Icelandic krona has seen a sharp correction in value - presently sitting at around 160ISK to the pound - facilitating a sharp increase in demand from western travellers.

With prices now at their lowest in years, there really has never been a better time to visit!

Orientation

Flying into Reykjavik provides the perfect introduction to Iceland. Over half of the country's 300,000 strong population dwell in the city - hunkered down away from the frozen interior in the south-west corner of the island. Other residents are spread around the coast, concentrated in innumerable, self-contained communities.

The capital is easily reached through Keflavik Airport - a mere three hours from London Heathrow - which serves a number of international destinations. The smaller Reykjavik Airport, which is virtually in the centre of the city, provides mainly domestic flights to the outlying towns dotted across the country.

Both airports are served by FlyBus, which takes passengers from the arrivals terminal at Keflavik to the centre of the city in around 40 minutes for around 2000ISK. Stops at numerous hotels are also available on request.

City Breaks in Reykjavik

Representing the social, political and commercial centre of the nation, Reykjavik is also among the most temperate locations in the country. Temperatures drop slightly below freezing in winter and move a few degrees above in summer, making it cold, but not inhospitable.

The city also presents the ideal location for a short break in Iceland; home to some of the country's principal tourist attractions. For example the bright and airy National Gallery of Iceland is located on the shores of Lake Tjörnin and offers a thoroughly contemporary collection, while the Settlement Exhibition and Culture House allow guests to explore the historical development of the nation.

While it is possible to reach many destinations in Reykjavik on foot, the local bus network provides a cost efficient and regular alternative. Some 19 routes criss-cross the city, centred on the Hlemmur Bus Centre, covering all the major destinations - at a cost of around 280ISK for a single journey. Visitors may also wish to invest in a Reykjavik Welcome Card which provides unlimited free travel on local transport as well as providing entry to a host of attractions across the city.

A short bus ride away, just outside the town centre, the Reykjavik Park & Zoo is home to seals, horses, reindeer and, perhaps surprisingly, cats. It is also located right next to the Botanical Garden - both offering great ideas for family days out.

Back on foot, the city is centred on Laugavegur - the central street which runs through the heart of the Reykjavik. Lined with boutiques selling everything from lava sculptures to the latest fashions, the centre of the city is also home to some of the finest restaurants.

Those with a taste for authentic local cuisine may like to try the picturesque Laekjarbrekka. A slightly cheaper alternative is offered by a number of coffee shops - including Te & Kaffi - which line the cities busier streets.

The city is also famous for its nightlife; with fashionistas willing to step out in heels, despite the treacherously icy conditions. Perhaps the best location for those looking to party is Nasa - hosting a Rolling Stones tribute while travelbite.co.uk was in town - which is located at 2 Thorvaldsensstræti. The central venue for live music in the city, guests can expect Iceland's hottest bands playing at weekends.

Gullfoss Lounge and Strawberries have also garnered a positive reputation.

Outside the City

While Reykjavik represents the beating heart of Iceland, the capital tells just half of the story. Outside of the city the country is packed with diverse geographical phenomenon; some of which cannot be seen anywhere else in the world. One way to explore these treasures is with Reykjavik Excursions - which offers a range of guided tours through some of Iceland's highlights.

The Golden Circle tour (9,800ISK) for example allows guests to visit the Gullfoss Waterfall and the world famous Geysir area - where exploding jets of water delight day-trippers. Alternately, the Saga Circle (14,000ISK) follows in the footsteps of Viking warriors, while the fabulous Northern Lights (4,700 ISK) are also visible throughout the winter months.

For those looking for something a little more natural, how about exploring Iceland on horseback? Day trips are on offer from Ãshestar, based at a riding centre just outside Reykjavik. Lasting a number of hours, tours include visits to the lava fields surrounding Mt. Helgafell, an exploration of Viking ruins or even a chance to venture down to Faxaflói Bay for a cruise to watch whales and dolphins play.

Trips costs from ?60 (£50) and are fully guided, with guests split into groups based on their ability to ride.

Those seeking more of an adrenalin rush can take a tour with Iceland Rovers - tearing across the snowy plains in a modified 'super' Land Rover. Day tours range from four to 12-hours, while overnight adventures can last from two to 14-days. Guests can chose itineraries to suit their needs, exploring the geographical features which make Iceland unique.

Shorter trips start at around 23,000ISK while longer journeys can cost up to 150,000ISK.

Spa Breaks in Iceland

Despite the inclement conditions, Reykjavik is also home to upward of 16 swimming pools; all of which are heated by geothermal energy. The pools are usually open-air and represent an essential stop for all visitors seeking an authentic view of the city - drawing their heat from volcanic activity across the island.

Perhaps the most famous of these pools is the Blue Lagoon, located some 40 minutes drive from the centre of the capital.

This destination spa offers guests the chance to bathe in the invigorating, mineral rich waters of one of the island's largest geothermal pools, surrounded by the pure Icelandic air. Also on offer at the spa are a full range of treatments and facilities; including steam baths and saunas as well as the slightly more exotic energising algae wraps and salt glow & silica massages.

Guests can gain entry to the Blue Lagoon for ?20 (£18), while a range of dining and conference facilities are also available. Reykjavik Excursions also offers a tour to the Blue Lagoon, collecting guests from their hotels as part of a transfer to Keflavik Airport, arriving in time for afternoon departures to the UK. The trip costs around 6,000ISK.

Iceland is also home to the Nautholsvik Geothermal Beach - located to the south of Reykjavik. Reopened in 2000 - with a new service centre, sandy beach and sheltered, heated lagoon - the beach utilises runoff water from the cities central heating system to create bathing conditions similar to those in the Mediterranean. Temperatures reach 30-35°C, allowing guests to swim amid the waves - whatever the weather!

Nautholsvik beach is open daily between 10:00 and 20:00 from May 16th until August 31st.

Accommodation

Iceland is home to a wealth of hotels, catering for all tastes and budgets. Unsurprisingly the majority are located in the capital, Reykjavik, with a number of international brands represented just minutes outside the city centre.

The Grand Hotel, Radisson Sas Saga and Travel Inn all stretch out along or around the Laugavegur, but perhaps the best option is the Hilton Reykjavik Nordica. Rooms are spacious and clean, while some with sea views and a free shuttle bus takes guests into the town centre. The location is also perfect for the city zoo and botanical gardens.
Rates start at around 14,500ISK for a single room per person per night, rising to around 16,300 to include breakfast.

In the city centre, the boutique Hotel Fron and Centre Hotel Skjaldbreið are also worth investigating.

More Information

For those looking to reach Iceland, Keflavik Airport is well served by Icelandair - which offers departures to Manchester and London in the UK.

A return flight between Keflavik and Heathrow costs slightly more than £400 in Economy Class, while those wishing to travel in Saga Class can expect to pay around £900 for the trip.

A single journey to Keflavik can cost from as little as £162, with a Reykjavik city break - including return flights and three nights accommodation at the Reykjavik Hilton Nordica - available from £279. Head over to Icelandair for more information.

Chris O'Toole