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Autumn Walk in Elliðaárdalur: Discover Nature and History in Reykjavik

If you’re in Reykjavik this autumn and looking for something cozy to do, why not explore Elliðaárdalur? Whether you have just a few hours or a full day, this natural gem has plenty to offer. Imagine the crisp autumn air, leaves in shades of gold, red, and amber crunching under your feet as you wander through this stunning valley. It’s packed with history, nature, and a bit of art to top it off—there’s something for everyone here!

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The Icelandic Horse: A Small Giant With A Big Personality

Did you know that Iceland has its very own breed of horse? Though small in stature, the Icelandic horse is anything but ordinary. This ancient breed arrived in Iceland with the Vikings in the 9th century and has been an essential companion to Icelanders ever since.

Get to Know Reykjavik with Julio!

Meet Julio, one of our amazing hotel managers at Center Hotels! Originally from Mexico, Julio moved to Iceland at 18, where he earned a bachelor’s in Tourism and a master’s in Marketing. After a hiatus abroad as a flight attendant, Julio returned to Iceland and joined the Center Hotels team, where he's been a valued member ever since. Check out his recommendations on what to do in Reykjavik with his 3 favorite things about the city!

Wildlife Adventures in Iceland: Foxes, Whales, and Puffins Await!

Iceland’s wildlife is as unique and resilient as the island itself. Despite the harsh weather and challenging landscapes, a remarkable variety of species have adapted to thrive here. From the Arctic fox, Iceland's only native land mammal, to the numerous whale species and vibrant puffins that visit the island, Iceland offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of these hardy creatures.

The Icelandic eruption that shook the world!

The Skaftáreldar eruptions, one of the greatest volcanic events in Icelandic history, took place from 1783 to 1784. Originating from Lakagígar, a spectacular row of craters stretching over 29 kilometers, these eruptions are remembered not only for their sheer magnitude but also for their profound impact on the world.

17 Júní 2024, 80 years of independence!

This year marks 80 years since Iceland officially gained it´s independence from Denmark, Icelander´s National Day, June 17, is celebrated every year to celebrate the establishment of a republic in this country in 1944. This day is also the birthday of Jón Sigurðsson (1811-1879), our very own independence hero. So, this day is very special for us in Iceland!

TripAdvisor Travelers´ Choice Awards 2024

We’re thrilled to share some amazing news with you— our hotels have snagged the prestigious Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Award for 2024! This is a huge deal for us, and we couldn’t have done it without our fantastic guests.

5 quirky coffee houses to visit in Reykjavik

In Iceland, visiting a coffee house, or 'Kaffihús', is more than a pastime—it's a cherished tradition. Icelanders delight in discovering inventive new ways to savor their coffee and tea. Whether you're looking to spark your creativity or simply share a laugh, Reykjavik's city center offers a vibrant selection of quirky coffee houses. Here are five unique spots that promise to enrich your experience and perhaps even surprise you.

Mottumars: Highlighting Men's Cancer Awareness in Iceland

Since its inception in 2008, Moustache March has become a crucial initiative in Iceland, focusing on educating men about cancer and fundraising for cancer research. This movement mirrors the dedication of October to women's cancer awareness with the pink ribbon campaign. In Iceland, over 7,600 men are living with a cancer diagnosis, and a third of all men will face cancer at some point in their lives. Early detection significantly improves treatment options and survival rates, emphasizing the importance of awareness and education.

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5 Very Icelandic Foods Easily Found in Supermarkets

Icelandic food culture is often strange and sometimes downright worrying, that is maybe not surprising when it evolved on an isolated island in the middle of the Atlantic. Icelandic food is essentially survival food in the sense of how will I survive the winter and or the next eruption? 1200 years later here we still are thanks to these superfoods. If you want to experience this food for yourself then here we have 5 Icelandic foods you can easily find in any supermarket to try while you´re visiting or to bring home to torture your loved ones with.