A little island in the North Atlantic, home to a tiny population and the northern-most capital in the world, Iceland is truly one of the most unique places on the planet. The scenery and nature is like nothing else on earth, active geysers and volcanoes erupt and melting glaciers create dramatic waterfalls, feeding rivers that lead to the sea.

The Icelandic wilderness is one of the places on earth that you can be totally alone and surrounded by nature (and maybe the odd elf). It is totally magical.

Nature, craft and folk-law play a major part in the make-up of the Icelandic culture and this is ever apparent in the work of artists and designers. There is a definite emphasis on the use of natural materials and traditional production techniques. In every Icelandic town, you will find designers and makers working in their studios, never once taking for granted the amazing backdrop of nature that they draw their inspiration from.  Icelandic people are intensely proud of their heritage and their country.

Reykjavik

Taking a walk through the capital Reykjavik (meaning “Smoky Bay”) is an absolute pleasure. You will find a coffee house or gallery on every corner. It is a forward thinking, modern city, but with the feel of a very cute little town.  Below, we have listed some “must sees” for when you are the city:

Mokka is the oldest coffee house in Reykjavik serving amazing coffee and yummy waffles.

Grái Kötturinn (Grey Cat) - The Grey Cat, a coffee house frequented by art crowds and musicians….

Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur -The best hotdog in town (“The Guardian” even chose this place in 2006 as the best hotdog stand in Europe).

Kraum
National Gallery of Iceland
Galleri Dunga
Kópavogs kirkja
The Nordic House (Designed by Alvar Aalto)
Hallgrimskirkja
Perlan

...and you must go swimming!

Blue Lagoon

Truly one of the most amazing places in the country. It is about 45 minutes from Reykjavik (really near the airport so lots of people go there before they return home) You cannot go to Iceland without going here! It is just amazing - especially if it snowing....and also if not....Its a milky blue series of very warm milky pools. There is nowhere like it in the world. www.bluelagoon.com

Where to stay....

If your looking for cool and cosy boutique then you can do little better than 101 Reykjavik. Here is what they have to say about it:

101 hotel is a boutique hotel, situated in the heart of Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland. It is a member of Design Hotels. The hotel features 38 spacious rooms, including 6 suites and junior suites with in-room amenities providing all the modern comforts you need. All rooms feature one queen or king size bed.  A luxurious basement gym and spa with a steam bath and jacuzzi allows you to completely unwind and relax. In the ground floor the 101 bar and restaurant offer an effortless combination of contemporary Icelandic and international cuisine. 101 hotel is appreciative of contemporary art and guests can feast their eyes on an ever-growing in-house collection. 101 hotel is located adjacent to the Icelandic opera and opposite the National theatre and the National center for cultural heritage. It is surrounded by many galleries, museums, clubs, cafés, restaurants and high-end shops. www.101hotel.is