Reykjavík, Iceland Sunday, June 18, 2017

 

After breakfast Jim went to the Hei›mörk Nature Reserve to hike through the rugged landscapes of the Hei›mörk Nature Reserve and take some photo’s.  It had a network of trails that run through thick vegetation, lava formations, and the Red Hills, a cluster of pseudocraters in the Ellidaárhraun lava field. I opted to try to walk about town in between the bursts of rain.  I’m learning you never leave the hotel without a raincoat and umbrella.  Weather looks fine one minute and starts pouring rain the next.  We were craving a cheeseburger and wings so we popped in to the American Bar near our hotel for lunch.  Getting tired of the bulk buffet meals.

After lunch we did a short walk around the winding streets of Reykjavik.  Stopped to listen to a pan flute street performer who had attracted the interest of several passersby.
Then we went on a tour of the Geothermal Plant.  It was a very thorough tour and, most pleasant of all, no one was there but our little group.  We learned how Reykjavík’s energy is supplied by harnessing the natural power of Iceland’s abundant volcanic activity.  The plant is built directly next to a volcano.  The plant supplies clean energy  that is used to supply electricity and provide hot water to the 99% of Reykjavik.  On the way back we made a quick stop (as it was pelting rain again!) to visit The Pearl, an iconic dome-shaped landmark that overlooks the city offering an exquisite panoramic view.
This evening we traveled via ferry boat to Vi›ey Island, where we enjoyed a wonderful  dinner and great traditional Icelandic entertainment.  We were greeted by an Acordion player and then during dinner a female vocalist accompanied by a guitarist performed.  They were excellent.  She had the most amazing voice and sang Iceland songs for us.

Hotel Borg, Reykjavík (B, L, D daily)