24 Hours in Iceland

Morning blues

So, you went out last night in Reykjavik. Where was it? Kaffibarinn or Vegamot – of course it was Kaffibarinn, the London subway sign sucked you in? Yes, us too. Famously dubbed ‘the nightlife capital of the north’ by people in the know; spend a night in Reykjavik and no doubt you’ll spend it partying the, well, the night, away. But, that doesn’t mean you can slack off during the day – in fact spending 24 hours in Iceland is one of our favorite ways to spend a day on earth.

When you wake up there is no better place to go than the Blue Lagoon, it is the ideal spot to rest your weary limbs and pamper yourself. No matter how cold it is outdoors, the water averages a lovely 37 degrees celsius in the natural geothermal spring.  Those looking for a little luxury, and peace and quiet; the Exclusive lounge will leave you feeling truly pampered with therapeutic treatments including rejuvenating massages and steam baths.

Top shops

When you tell your loved ones you’re off to Iceland they’re obviously going to be impressed – and then all clamour for a souvenir. So while you’re there it makes sense to do a little shopping. Oh, who are we kidding? The main street in Reykjavik, Laugavegur, is one of the most charming boutique shopping strips in the world, and we’re quite happy to admit it. Our pick is to stop at Suomi Prkl for trinkets, and, of course, admire the exterior of the shop.  Those looking for more of a treasure hunt should visit the Kolaportið Flea Market. Held in a huge industrial building by the harbor each weekend, it is a Reykjavik institution and definitely worth a visit, particularly if you have a lust for antique-ing.

Fish ‘n chips

Hungry again? Well of course, it’s lunch time and that means it’s Icelandic Fish and Chip o’clock. The organic shop has fresh fish on the menu, so the catch changes every day, but regular fish include Cod, Haddock, Wolf Fish, Blue Ling, Tusk, Pollock and more. Order a side of garlic potatoes and fried cauliflower and broccoli and you’ll leave one satisfied individual.

Movie moments

Take a drive in a super jeep out to the glacier lagoon that is Jökulsárlón. Feel like you’ve been here before? That’s because it’s been a feature in plenty of Hollywood blockbusters, and we’re giving you access to the set. Cruise between precariously placed icebergs on a boat ride out onto the electric blue lagoon and get so close you’ll be able to skim your hands across the ice. Keep your eyes peeled for seals and native Icelandic wildlife including the Great Sku.

Number 101

For a pre-dinner drink we recommend Reykjavik’s first boutique hotel, 101. Owned by Icelandic designer, Ingibjorg S. Palmadottir, the clean lines, modern design and elegant furnishings, not to mention signature cocktails, offer a stylish sense of comfort and make it the ideal place to begin the night.

Table on four

Home to the Iceland Symphony Orchestra and the Icelandic Opera, the Harpa building hosts concerts and a myriad of events. The fourth level is also home to Kolabrautin – and it’s delicious. We would recommend coming here even if it were subway in a cave with no ambience, just for the food. When we visited the goose ravioli and ocean perch were fabulous, but with helpful wait staff, you’ll be spoiled for choice. The fact that the views include the gorgeous harbor and the glass building itself is designed by renowned artist Olafur Eliasson, is simply, a huge bonus.

Iced

Need a sweet treat after dinner? Now it may sound ludicrous suggesting ice cream in Iceland, but hear us out – Eldur and Is, is one of the cutest dessert bars we have been too. Full of crepes, premier ice cream, sorbets – you, that is, the shop has even more goodies including a delightful drinks menu. This is a lovely place to spend the evening.

Scuba suit up

It has hit midnight and we have one more surprise in store, why not go scuba diving between tectonic plates? Dive into the – okay, freezing – water (don’t worry, your dry suit will keep you warm) and you’ll become absorbed by the dramatic and craggy sharp rocks and crystal clear waters where visibility is like nowhere else on earth. During summer a midnight dive means the sun will be still shining brightly, making this a completely out of this world experience.