Icelandic wool, a national treasure
Icelandic wool is very useful in the middle of winter or in mid-season. It is particularly comfortable, and its manufacture resides in the weaving of two types of fibres. The fibres on the inside of the wool yarns are fine, soft and particularly insulating, while those on the outside are smoother and more water-resistant. Together, these elements give the garments produced four characteristics that differentiate them from those made from other materials: great lightness, excellent permeability (sweat is naturally evacuated to the outside), very good water retention, leaving the wearer dry, and a dirt-resistant appearance.
Among the products made from Icelandic wool, the most famous is surely the Icelandic sweater or lopi, hand-knitted, with unique patterns. There are also blankets, sweaters, hats and gloves with jacquard patterns, which are sold in shops as well as in some farms.Capturing the volcanic essence of Iceland in a jewel of a...
From the active volcanism of Iceland comes a proliferation of rocks with harmonious colors. These are used in the making of all kinds of jewellery. It is not uncommon to find works representing the famous hammer of Thor, one of the greatest gods for the Vikings, mounted in pendants or earrings. Some jewellery is adorned with bronze, gold or silver. In addition to the famous Viking rings, beautiful rings are also made from more colourful stones, which are added to a gold or silver setting. In some cultures, stones are also given virtues.
Find your dream Christmas decoration in Reykjavik!
Iceland's capital has several Christmas decoration shops open all year round, two of which are very well known: Litla Jólabúðin and Jólahúsið.
At Jólahúsið, you will find a spacious shop that looks like Santa's workshop with its beautiful decorations.
At Litla Jólabúðin, a smaller shop, but an incredible choice of Christmas decorations at reasonable prices. We love the unique handmade Christmas ornaments, which are the best value for money in the capital.
What gourmet products to bring back from Iceland?
Although limited by its insular character, Iceland offers some specialties more or less greedy to taste. Among them, the Icelandic Skyr (a kind of yoghurt very consistent and low in calories) knows a growing popularity at the international level, so much so that it can now be found in many hypermarkets.
Other examples of sweet and savoury specialities to try are their dried fish(Harðfiskur) as an aperitif or snack, chocolates, toffees or sweets... At the airport and in many shops, the Noa brand generally offers good value for money.
Beware, Icelanders like to put licorice in many products. If you don't like this ingredient, avoid products that mention the presence of Lakkris. Also beware of black/yellow packaging.
Finally, to bring back a delicious and lasting souvenir, you will find many local herbs and salts, including black volcanic salt. The Saltverk brand offers many variations of quality salts. Sold in many shops, remember to compare prices, which can vary by a few euros.
Cheers (or "Santaka na" in Icelandic)!
From 1915 to 1930, alcohol was banned in Iceland... and for beer, this ban was maintained until 1989! Today, from this prohibition, we find two important things to know:
Shops like Bonus are not allowed to sell alcohol over 2.5%, with the only exception being Vínbúðin. You can also buy your alcohol in the duty-free shop at Keflavik airport.
Icelandic beer is generally not very strong! When you are used to beers with character, you may find that some Icelandic beers lack taste. Before buying a pack of a brand you don't know, think about it.
On the brand side, Einstock beer offers many variations. On the strong alcohol side, the local alcohol is Brennivin (potato alcohol), but it may not be to your taste. Finally, if you like liqueurs, those from Reykjavik Distillery are delicious.
How about a trip to the flea market?
If you want to meet locals and enjoy browsing through flea markets, there is a unique place in the capital. Right next to the harbour, the Reykjavik flea market (Kolaportið) is open on Saturday and Sunday. There is a large fish section, but mostly second-hand goods.
If you like neat and organized shelves, be patient because the flea market is full of life, and items scattered here and there. It is also possible to buy a sandwich on the spot, very practical between two visits, and the price remains correct.
Of course, you can find a lot of souvenirs to bring back from your trip: mugs, magnets, stickers, pens, badges, t-shirts with humorous messages...
Laugavegur and the surrounding streets have the largest number of souvenir shops in the capital. Prices are generally reasonable, but be sure to shop around to see who is competing.
