Exhibitions

Skyrland immerses your senses in the world of skyr, Iceland’s unique superfood. A journey of sights, scents and tastes, you’ll discover a 1000-year story of how a Viking dairy product became a global health food.  Skyr, the creamy Icelandic yogurt, is woven through the story of a nation. The interactive exhibition takes you to the heart of Icelandic history, culture and nature, and what lies behind every delicious spoonful of skyr.  Skyrland is a part of The Old Dairy, a new destination in Selfoss – and a must-stop destination for food lovers. Food Hall with 8 Restaurants Tap Room with Icelandic Craft Beer Wine & Cocktail Bar Selfoss is the largest town in South Iceland, 45 minutes drive from Reykjavik and part of the Golden Circle Route

Sagnheimar, folk museumSagnheimar, folk museum, opened a completely new exhibition in May 2011. The aim of the new exhibition is to let visitors of all ages experience the islands history in both traditional and more untraditional ways; with photo spots, multimedia and hands-on approach to make your visit as exciting as the islands history! The volcanic eruption in Heimaey 1973On the night of January 23rd an eruption occurred on Heimaey. Around 5300 people were relocated to the mainland that same night. Of 1345 family homes almost one third disappeared under the lava and another third was damaged. This exhibition shows pictures of the event and locals recall the night’s events and the restoration of the town. The Pirate Raid 1627On July 16th 1627 the island was invaded by pirates, they sailed to Heimey on three ships and stole, plundered and killed. The pirates captured 242 islanders, brought them aboard ships and later sold them into slavery in Algeria. The story is told through pictures. Is this the most dangerous profession in the world?The fishermen´s and fish workers work is by far the most important part of the history of the Westman Islands. Photos and multimedia indicate how they survived hardship and difficulties through the ages.  Opening hours May 1st - September 30th: Every day from 10:00-17:00 October 1st - April 30th: Saturday from 12:00-15:00, other days closed (open upon arrangement)

The exhibition focuses on the 1973 volcanic eruption in Vestmannaeyjar, without a doubt one of Iceland´s biggest natural disaster. Visitors get a glimpse into peoples lives on Heimaey before the eruption that would change their lives forever. The people of Heimaey had to leave their homes in the middle of the night and evacuate the island, many of them never saw their homes or any of their belongings ever again. The eruption started in the early hours of January 23rd 1973 on the island of Heimaey, the only inhabited island of the Vestmannaeyjar islands and it lasted for 5 months. Lava and ash destroyed almost 400 homes and businesses, a third of all buildings on Heimaey. While the eruption lasted no one knew if the island would ever be populated again.

Svavarssafn (The museum of Svavar Guðnason) is a vibrant, contemporary artmuseum at Höfn in Hornafjordur. The museum hosts various Icelandic exhibitions over the year, emphasizing artists with a connection to the area. Hornafjordur is a large region known for its spectacular landscape and glacial light, not easily found anywhere else. The museum offers a space to contemplate art inspired by this landscape that many Icelandic artists have tried to capture. The museum was founded in honor of Svavar Guðnason (1909-1988), the first Icelandic abstract painter. Svavar was born in Höfn and became one of the most influential leaders of the Icelandic avant-garde during the middle of the 20th century. One of few Icelandic artists of that period to have an international following. The museum was founded when Hornafjordur received from Ásta Eiríksdóttir, the widow of the artist, several important works by Svavar, and today the museum owns about 500 works by him and other artists from the area. On average, three exhibitions are held each year that combine works by contemporary artists and works from the collection. The museum is open all year round and located in the city hall. The museum is free of charge. Winter opening1. September - 31. MayWorkdays: 9:00-17:00 Summer opening 1. June - 31. August Workdays: 9:00-18:00Weekends: 13:00-17:00 

Sesseljuhús Environmental Center provides an educational experience focusing on sustainable building and environmental exhibitions. Education programs and workshops on environmental issues are held for students at all levels. In addition, there are forums, meetings, and seminars where all are welcome. Environmental presentations are also held all year round. In addition, there are excellent facilities for meetings, courses, and conferences.  For more information about the center and events, visit: www.solheimar.is For more information about Sesseljuhús, accommodation, or guided tours, call: Phone: 855-6080 sesseljuhus@solheimar.is gisting@solheimar.is  Sólheimar is considered the oldest eco-village in the world. Sólheimar was established as a children's home 80 years ago. Still, today Sólheimar focuses on offering people with special needs varied and creative employment opportunities, jobs in organic horticulture and forestry in a close-knit community that focuses on environmental issues and vivid cultural life. Sólheimar workplaces include six creative art workshops, Nærandi - an organic bakery and food processing unit, Ölur - organic forestry, Sunna - organic horticulture, Guesthouse Sesseljuhus, and Græna Kannan - an organic café. All products are sold in the Vala grocery store and art gallery. 

Hólmur offers accomodation in an old farmhouse, renovated in 1960-70 style, with 6 double bedrooms and 2 shared bathrooms.  Good cooking facilities (only in winter) and dining area. We allso have 2 double rooms at the farmhouse. Breakfast is available, and dinner if booked in advance in a old rebuild cowshed. Nice walking trails in the area and diverse bird life. By the Ring Road highway nr. 1. Open all year round. We also run a restaurant and brewery at the farm. The Farm Zoo at Hólmur with Icelandic domestic animals, however are believed to be one of the purest breeds in the world because they have been here sins the settlement Icelandic sheep-lambs, horses, calves, goats, a pig and various kinds of birds and rabbits.The animals are indoors in winter but also outside in summertime. Different numbers and types of animals are between seasons.In the spring there is awakening of many lives in the zoo Wheelchair access.Guests that stay ower nigth in wintertime  have free access to the farm zoo and guests can help with feeding sheep and other animals on the farm. Open all year around.

Landsvirkjun's energy exhibition is located in Ljósafoss Power Station and is about a 50-minute drive from Reykjavík.  The exhibition is interactive with an emphasis on play and experience. It offers guests a glimpse into the world of electricity as well as being introduced to the renewable and sustainable energy generation methods used by Landsvirkjun.  Open every day this summer from 10:00-17:00, free admission. 

LAVA "Iceland Volcano & Earthquake Center" reveals the epic forces of nature that shaped our planet and created Iceland only 20 million years ago. LAVA is dedicated to the unique volcanoes and geology of Iceland. The center features an interactive educational exhibition exploring the art and science of geology and the volcanic systems in Iceland and an educational learning center for geology where staff members educate visitors to make the visit as enjoyable and memorable as possible. The interactive exhibition further displays a collection of artifacts, films, and graphics from various volcano eruptions in the past century. For opening hours and price, click here 

 In the old heart of Vík, you will find the historical Brydebúð building, housing Katla Visitor Center.  Encounter the geology of Katla UNESCO Global Geopark in the Katla exhibition. Feel the various textures of local minerals including volcanic ash dating back to 1860; and learn about volcanic eruptions in the infamous Katla volcano.  Discover the history of shipwrecks and disasters on the black beaches of South Iceland and get to know the lucky ship Skaftfellingur at Hafnleysa Maritime Museum. Put yourselves in the shoes of fishermen fighting the waves of the harborless south coast.  Learn how best to experience Vík and Mýrdalur region at our information center. Shop local produce and explore Vík by participating in the Vík Treasure Quest or tour the brand new Vík Culture Walk. Maps of the area with all its exciting outdoor opportunities are available here!

The oldest existing farmhouse in Iceland is located at Keldur. It stands as a testament to the past, being the sole remaining farmhouse of its kind, known as the old passageway type. Thestructure's wooden frame showcases characteristics reminiscent of Roman style.  Keldur holds great significance in Icelandic heritage, with its story deeply rooted in the annals of history. Ingjaldur Höskuldsson, the first inhabitant of Keldur, is mentioned in Njál's Saga.  Constructed from stone, timber, and portions of turf, this ancient farmhouse can be traced back to the late 12th century.   The old farmhouse is connected to an underground tunnel, believed to have been constructed in the 12th or 13th century, possibly during a period of conflict.  New research indicates that beneath the fields situated across the riverbank, there are undisclosed ruins waiting to be uncovered.  Open every day from 10:00 am - 17:00 pm, from 1st of June till August 31th. Buy your ticket here. 

Icelandic Lava Show is the first and only live lava show in the world. The show is located at Víkurbraut 5 in the beautiful village of Vík on the South Coast, in the heart of Katla UNESCO Global Geopark, surrounded by volcanoes, glaciers, beautiful nature, and black sand beaches. It takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes to drive from Reykjavík to Vík without stopping. We recommend that you arrive at the Icelandic Lava Show no later than 15 minutes before the show starts.  The show begins with a short opening from the show‘s host and then delves into a short educational video about Icelandic volcanism and why Iceland is such an active volcano island. Then Katla UNESCO GEOPARK and the volcanoes surrounding Vík are highlighted with a good explanation of why these volcanoes are considered among the most dangerous on the planet. After that, the show takes the audience 100 years back in time with a dramatic story about the catastrophic Katla volcano eruption in 1918. The highlight of the show is when everyone is advised to put on their security goggles and the lava starts pouring into the showroom. The bright orange color as the lava starts flowing into the room is like sunrise and as the lava starts gliding over the ice it starts to bubble and crackle. The most surprising aspect, however, is the intense heat that radiates from the lava and the temperature in the showroom quickly rises. For a few moments, the only thing you want to do is sit there transfixed on the lava, mesmerized by the sensory onslaught as you watch the lava cool in front of your eyes, slowly turning from bright orange to grey to black. It is an experience unlike anything else you have ever experienced.  Soon after the lava flows into the room, the show‘s host starts playing with the lava, explaining the different aspects of it and what it really was that you just witnessed. As the lava continues to cool down, the host is able to demonstrate some really interesting aspects and wonders of lava and encourages the audience into an interactive Q&A session.  In the end, when the doors to the showroom are opened, it is usually a bright-eyed and flushed group of audience that walks out of the room, still wrapping their heads around the remarkable experience they just had in this wonderland of ice and fire. Most agree that Icelandic Lava Show is a must-see for everyone visiting Iceland. See our video here    

This centre houses memorabilia of the 11th World Chess Champion BOBBY FISCHER and the Selfoss Chess Club. The American Bobby Fischer became the World Chess Champion when he defeated the Soviet grandmaster and reigning World Champion  Boris Spassky in Reykjavík in the summer of 1972.  The match is generally referred to as the Match of the Century. It took place at the height of the Cold War, mirroring the tense relations between the two superpowers, the United States of America and the Soviet Union. Since 1948 Soviet chess players had held the World Championship title - uninterrupted for 25 years. On display at the Bobby Fischer centre in  Selfoss are among other things  Spassky´s and Fischer´s scoresheets, a printout from the radiation measurements demanded by Spassky´s delegation after the 17th game and a replica of the chessboard used during the match, which was staged in Laugardalshöll in Reykjavík.  In addition, there are many curious items related to Bobby Fischer‘s stay in Iceland during his last years (2005-2008), for example, his chair from the antiquarian bookshop Bókin in Reykjavík. He died on 17th January 2008 at the age of 64.  Bobby Fischer´s final resting place is at Laugardælir cemetery, a few hundred metres away from the Bobby Fischer centre.   Open from 13:00-17:00 every day, from 1 June to 22 August.  

Visit the world’s first beluga whale sanctuary and learn more about its first residents; Little White and Little Grey. Explore the Visitor Centre, home to Iceland’s only puffin rescue centre and local species aquarium. In summer months, book a guided boat trip to the sea sanctuary in nearby Klettsvik Bay.

The Þórbergur Centre was established in memory of the famous Icelandic writer Þórbergur Þórðarsson (1888 – 1974), who was born in Hali in Suðursveit. The centre includes a heritage museum and unique exhibitions of the district Sudursveit and the writer Þórbergur Þórðarson, his life and work. The Thorbergur Centre is by road number 1, the Ring Road. only 13 km further east from Jökulsárlón. Open all year round, every day from 8-21.   Our restaurant offers local food from the farm and the Vatnajökull region.

Vík is a sea-side village with a rich maritime history like the majority of Icelandic towns. However, what sets it apart is the fact that it has never had a harbour. The harsh waves and the shallow shores make it nearly impossible for ships to approach the land without stranding. And many ships did in fact strand on the black sands of the south coast. The Skaftfellingur maritime museum depicts the extraordinary maritime history of the south coast. Its centerpiece and namesake is the Skaftfellingur ship in its entirety, which brought people and products along the south coast  in the years 1918 – 1939. It then served on the Atlantic in WWII and is renowned for saving a crew from a sinking German U-464 submarine in 1942. In year 2001 Sigrún Jónsdóttir, a famous artist from Vík salvaged the remains of Skaftfellingur and brought it home to Vík. She had a deep emotional connection with the ship and if it were not for her, visitors might never have been able to see it up close and learn about its fascinating history. The museum is ideal for families. Kids can try on costumes, see the ship up close, learn about the history and watch a documentary with historic footage from Vík. Entrance fee: Adults: 500 ISK 12-16 year-olds: 200 ISK Children under 12: Free entrance 25% discount for groups of 8 or more. Sími: 852-1395 Netfang: info@vik.is Veffang: www.kotlusetur.is Opening period: all year

Skógar Museum was founded in 1949 and nowadays hosts a collection of more than 18,000 regional artifacts, exhibited in three different spaces. It is located 150 km east of Reykjavík, just off Ring Road 1, and 30 km west of Vík. The Museum was especially known for the curator Þórður Tómasson. Skógar Museum is divided into three parts: -The Folk Museum offers a huge variety of artifacts displayed on three floors: fishing, agriculture, textile, and natural history, as well as artifacts dating back to the Viking Age. -The Open Air Museum, where visitors can catch the atmosphere of times long gone and experience how Icelanders lived through the centuries in farms made from turf and stone.-The Technical Museum tells the story of technology and transportation and its development in Iceland in the 19th and 20th century. It also houses a souvenir shop and the Skógakaffi cafeteria. Guided tours are available upon reservation in English, German and Icelandic for groups of ten people or more. Sometimes there is the possibility to have guided tours in French, Spanish, Norwegian, and Danish.“ Skogar Museum is open 364 days of the yearJune - August: 09:00 - 18:00September - October: 10:00 – 17:00November – April: 10:00 – 16:00May: 10:00 – 17:00 Please visit us on Facebook herePlease visit us on Instagram here

Twelve man-made caves have been discovered on the land of Ægissíða by Hella on the South Coast of Iceland. Four of them have been open to the public. The historical site is Iceland's oldest still standing archaeological remains. Some believe the caves to date even further back than the settlement of the Nordic Vikings.   The wonders of the Caves of Hella include ancient crosses, wall carvings, and carved seats. Mystery surrounds the caves and for centuries people have wondered: Are the caves the handiwork of the Celts? Were the caves a place of ancient worship? Caves of Hella offer a great opportunity to explore these historic caves in Iceland. Join us to discover the secrets they hold and experience the magical Underworld of the South. The Caves are located right next to Route 1 (the Ring Road), an approximately hour drive from Reykjavik. 

In Kirkjubæjarklaustur the Tourist Information Office is situated in Skaftárstofa, on your left hand as you drive through the village. At Skaftárstofa, an educational path begins. The path ends at the swimming pool at Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Very interesting for families.  Exhibition about the moss Documentary Films:Eruption in Grímsvötn 2011Western part of Vatnajökull National Park Opening hours Participant in VAKINN Iceland tourism's official quality assurance organization  

Skálholt is one of Iceland's most historical places and the capital of Iceland for over 700 years. It was the scene of the most dramatic events which shaped the political, spiritual, and cultural life in Iceland. Skálholt Cathedral was built in 1963 and is the 10th cathedral on the very site, the first one was built in the year 1000 when Icelanders became a christian nation. The current Cathedral is known for its stylish architecture, the beautiful altarpiece, and the spectacular glass-stained windows. The tomb of bishops, a museum of historical artifacts, and a mysterious underground tunnel is situated in the cellar of the church. Guided tours are offered for groups of 10 or more for a moderate fee.  Skálholt Cathedral is open from 9:00am - 6:00pm every day. Skálholt is located about 1 hour from Reykjavík and is part of the Golden Circle Route. From Reykjavík take Ring road 1 towards Selfoss town, and drive for around 30 minutes. Before entering the town take road nr 35, drive for about 20 minutes and turn right on road 31. Drive for about 5 minutes and you will see Skálholt on your right-hand side. Skálholt´s early history is traced back to the 11th century when religious disputes were at their sharpest in Iceland. Within two centuries of the settlement of Iceland, the first bishopric was founded at Skálholt in 1056 for South Iceland, and soon a second at Hólar in 1109 for North Iceland. In 1954, a team of archaeologists, while digging up the foundations of the old cathedral, came upon a sarcophagus which was believed to contain the skeleton of Páll Jónsson, one of the most powerful bishops of Skálholt. His sarcophagus, together with a few relics found at the scene, is now on display in an underground vault beneath the cathedral. The last Catholic bishop of Iceland, Jón Arason, was executed at Skálholt in 1550, along with his two sons. He had opposed the Reformation imposed upon Iceland by King Christian III of Denmark. Today, a memorial stands at the site of the execution. Arason's Episcopal robes are on display at the National Museum of Iceland in Reykjavík. Hotel SkálholtHotel Skálholt is a perfect place to stay when you want to visit places in the Golden Circle, the South Coast or the highlands of Iceland since it is situated near so many places to have wonderful day trips. In Skálholt there is a variety of accommodation; Hotel Skálholt has 18 DBL rooms with private bathroom. Organist house is a 3-5 bedroom villa with 2 bathrooms and a private hot tub. Skálholt hostel has 10 DBL rooms with shared facilities, a large kitchen, dining room, a large ballroom and seating area. The location is perfect for school groups, yoga groups, choirs, or for smaller parties. Two cottages, located close to Skáholt hostel has 2 bedrooms each (4 beds), living room, kitchen and private bathroom. Each cottage has a private hot tub. Hotel Skálholt has facilities for meetings, seminars and conferences. The space is also great for events such as weddings, concerts and more and the facilities is available for groups to rent out. There are regular cultural events, such as stand-up comedy, small concerts, book events, art shows and more. Hotel Skálholt is a perfect place to stop on your Golden Circle tour or for those who want to enjoy the countryside, the view, the natural beauty and the tranquility. For bookings please send an email to hotelskalholt@hotelskalholt.is or call to +354 486 8870. More information at: www.hotelskalholt.is  Hvönn restaurantHvönn Restaurant is an experimental kitchen where the focus is on using fresh local ingredients. Meat, fish, and vegetables are sourced locally, and fused Icelandic and international food traditions from abroad using fermentation techniques (kombucha, lactose fermentation, kefir) and drying methods. These practices give the food a unique and special taste and texture. During the day the a bistro menu has delicious Icelandic choices, and in the evening the menu has a distinctive and curated three-course dinner experience that changes nightly. Whether it is for lunch or dinner, you are welcome to Hvönn restaurant. The chef Bjarki Sól is one of the owner of the hotel. He has worked as a chef for many years on projects to increase the quality of food companies in the area and he takes advantage of all the experience and relationships on the restaurant. Summer opening hours from May to November - 11:30am - 9pm every day. Bistro menu is served from 11:30am to 5pm each day and 3 course set menu is served in the evening. Please send an email to hotelskalholt@hotelskalholt.is or call to +354 486 8870. More information at: www.hotelskalholt.is.  We look forward to welcoming you in Skálholt.

LÁ Art Museum (Listasafn Árnesinga) welcomes you. It runs ambitious and various shows of contemporary as well as modern art in its four spacious exhibitions rooms. The exhibitions reflect our cultural heritage and our contemporary change. The bright seating area offers visitors the chance to relax in a peaceful setting whilst browsing through art related reading material supplied. The Museum also houses a small café and the children´s corner gives the museum´s younger visitors a chance to enjoy themselves. The Museum is owned by the eight Municipalities in Árnesinga County and supported by the Museum Council of Iceland.    LÁ Art Museum on Facebook Opening hours: May - August – every day: 12:00-17:00September - April – every day except Monday: 12:00-17:00

ON Power operates two geothermal power stations, in Hellisheiði and Nesjavellir, and one hydro power station in Andakíll. Which are the largest and the second-largest geothermal power stations in Iceland, respectively. The geothermal area of Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Plant is a high-temperature area located at an active volcano, Hengill. The estimated maximum capacity of the Hellisheiði geothermal power plant is 303 MW of electricity and 400 MW of thermal energy.  Hellisheiði and Nesjavellir power plants provide over 50% of the hot water used for district heating in the capital area. Geothermal fields in Reykjavík and neighbouring areas are the other source of hot water for the region. This hot water is also used for greenhouses, swimming pools, snow-melting, and a geothermal beach.  At the geothermal exhibition, located at the Hellisheiði geothermal power plant, visitors can learn how Icelandic people have harnessed geothermal energy for hundreds of years and how current and future developments will make the Hellisheiði power plant one of the greenest energy sources on the planet.   The Geothermal Exhibition is open every day of the year except December 25. and January 1.Winter opening hours: November 1. - March 31. - 09:00-16:00. Summer opening hours: April 1. - October 31. - 09:00 - 17:00. We invite you to experience our world-leading green power production up close and personal. Feel the engine room humming with energy, learn about geothermal ingenuity, and even smell the power. The exhibition is interactive and based on multimedia technology, allowing guests to explore and experience among other things: Visual explanation of the process of geothermal energy production The history of geothermal energy in Iceland The turbine at work An Icelandic mineral collection The Carbfix method - we turn CO2 into stoneLarger parties (10 people or more) are encouraged to send us an email detailing the time and date of the visit and the size of the respective group at syning@or.is

Hespuhúsið is an open plant dyeing studio where guests are welcome to visit the studio, look into the dye-pots and get information about the old coloring tradition. In the seating area, there is a mini-museum with old things related to handcraft. Plant dyed Icelandic wool is for sale with patterns for various projects. Opening hours are on the website and guests are welcome at any time on request.  

At the campground there are WC´s, showers, washing machines and a outside grill. In the service centre visitors can pay for camping and fishing permit and seek further information about the area.There is a small cafeteria which services soup, sandwiches and pizza.Summer opening hours (June-August):09:00-20:00 Winter opening hours (September - May):Information desk: 09:00-16:00Store and Service Centre at Leirar: 09:00-18:00