A Serene Stopover in Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik was a spontaneous addition to my itinerary, a refreshing detour en route back to Spain. This was my first time in Iceland, and I decided to take advantage of the layover to explore the capital city. As it turned out, Reykjavik offered a calm and colorful contrast to the summer heat found elsewhere.
Embracing the Cool Climate
Arriving in Reykjavik, I was welcomed by temperatures in the teens (Celsius), a delightful change from the sweltering heat I had left behind. The brisk, clean air was invigorating, and the city’s serene atmosphere set the tone for a pleasant stay.
Staying in Downtown Reykjavik
I chose to stay in a hotel downtown, where I had an amusing view of two giant stuffed polar bears right outside my window. This quirky sight added a whimsical touch to my accommodation experience. Downtown Reykjavik itself was a picturesque area, with colorful buildings lining the streets, making every walk a visual delight.
One of the first things I noticed was the quietness of Reykjavik. The streets had little traffic, and the city maintained an impressive level of cleanliness. Wandering around felt like stepping into a peaceful, well-kept secret.
Landmarks and Attractions
I began my exploration with a visit to the Sun Voyager, a sculpture of a Viking ship that seemed to capture the spirit of adventure and discovery. From there, I made my way to the Harpa building, renowned for its striking glass architecture. The interplay of light and reflections in the Harpa was mesmerizing.
The Old Harbor was another highlight, offering a glimpse into Reykjavik’s maritime heritage. Nearby, Austurvöllur, a lively square, provided a perfect spot to relax.
Tjörnin and Cultural Sights
A stroll around Tjörnin, the city pond, was particularly enjoyable. Ducks floated lazily on the water, and the Monument to the Unknown Bureaucrat stood as a humorous tribute to the often-overlooked office workers. The juxtaposition of nature and art here was fascinating.
Viking-Themed Delights
Reykjavik has a notable Viking heritage, evident in the many Viking-themed shops and restaurants scattered throughout the city. But most restaurants seemed to serve your typical western fare: pizza, burgers, fish and chips, etc. I did enjoy a delicioius falafel plate for lunch at Arabian Taste, however.
The Midnight Sun
Being in Reykjavik at the end of June meant experiencing the midnight sun. It was surreal to see the sun dip below the horizon around 11:15 p.m., yet never fully setting, leaving the sky in a perpetual twilight. This phenomenon added an otherworldly charm to the city, but made it harder to sleep.
A Memorable Haircut
One of the more amusing moments of my trip was getting a haircut. Priced at $56, which is average for Reykjavik, it was an interesting cultural experience. The barber’s phone rang mid-haircut, and he candidly answered, explaining it was his wife and that if he didn’t, she would kill him. He then proceeded to tell me about how the Vikings brought over the most beautiful women, but they were crazy and didn’t cook or clean. I doubt the veracity of his claim, but it made for an entertaining conversation.
Hallgrimskirkja Church
A visit to Hallgrimskirkja church was a must. Taking the elevator to the top, I was greeted by stunning 360-degree views of the city. The bells rang every 15 minutes, adding a melodic backdrop to the panoramic sights.
Laugardaslaug Pool
To engage in an Icelandic favorite pastime, I visited Laugardaslaug pool in the evening. The 50-meter pool was excellent for laps, and I enjoyed the luxury of having a lane to myself while I swam 1200m. Post-swim, I savored a traditional Icelandic hot dog from a nearby stand, rounding off a perfect local experience.
One Missed Opportunity
While I did go for a run in Reykjavik along the shoreline, I completely forgot that Iceland is part of the European Union. This is significant because of my goal, set in June 2023, to run a half marathon in every E.U. nation. I had plenty of time to run 13.1 miles during this stopover but didn’t. It was a missed opportunity.
Reflecting on Reykjavik
My brief but fulfilling stopover in Reykjavik was a serene and enriching experience. The city’s unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and tranquil ambiance made it a memorable destination. As I continued my journey to Spain, I carried with me pleasant memories of this charming Icelandic capital.
With Iceland being in between the U.S. and Europe, I imagine I will be back in this country at some point. Good thing, because I still need to check the country off my half marathon list!
