Destination Reykjavik - KEF
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Flights to Reykjavik
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Reykjavik
Geography and History
Iceland was populated by the Vikings in the 9th century and is considered the world’s oldest democracy. However, geographically speaking, Iceland is one of the youngest countries in the world, namely a so-called hot spot created through volcanic activity. Indeed, Iceland is still being formed in a very real way. Solidified lava formations, lava domes, geysers, canyons and steaming streams can be seen everywhere and impressively demonstrate that the island is still being formed. By the way, the name Iceland is misleading: Although Europe’s largest glacier Vatnajökull – covering 8’400 km2 - is in Iceland, the glacial ice masses account for just 12% of the country’s total area.
Country and People
In geographical terms Iceland belongs to Europe, however geologically speaking it is at the meeting point of the Eurasian and American tectonic plates. Iceland is twice the size of Switzerland, but with just 290’000 inhabitants has the lowest population density in Europe. Nearly two thirds of Iceland’s population live in and around Reykjavik. The Icelanders are self-confident, fun-loving people with plenty of ideas and great talent to improvise. Many of them own a horse and a small summer house at one of the numerous lakes. Incidentally: Half of Iceland’s inhabitants believe in elves. So don’t be surprised if you should return from a trip to Iceland believing in these friendly natural spirits too!
Iceland’s capital has become the country’s cultural centre. A number of artists have moved to Reykjavik, which is reflected in the many sculptures found in various places in the city. But there are several parks as well, making Reykjavik a very green city. One of the nicest places in the city centre is Tjörn, a little lake at the northern end of which Reykjavik’s town hall stands. A larger park is situated on the city outskirts in Laugardalur. This is where the botanical garden and the farm-animal zoo are located, as well as numerous sports facilities and one of Iceland’s largest and most agreeable hot springs. Most of the cultural and historical buildings are in the city centre. The highest building in Reyjkavik is the Hallgrimskirkja Church which offers a stunning view of the city, the sea and Mt. Esja, Reykjavik’s landmark mountain. You can also see the Perlan, the hot water tanks which supply the entire city with warm water from Reykjanes. The Perlan was built on Öskjuhlíð hill. Apart from water, it hosts a restaurant and a bistro café as well as facilities for various exhibitions and sales held several times a year. Visitors should allow 2-3 days to get to know Reykjavik.
