Embracing the Icy Embrace of Reykholt

As the year draws to a close, the quaint village of Reykholt in Borgarbyggð, Iceland, transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. The snow-laden landscape, with its serene white blanket, invites you to explore its hidden gems. On December 28th, the day begins with a snowy embrace, as the skies gradually clear to reveal the breathtaking vistas of Reykholt. The temperature dances between 13.5°C and 25.1°C, but the wind’s icy fingers make it feel much colder, a reminder of nature’s raw power.

Start your day with the Borgarfjörður Tour at 9:00 AM, where the journey through the icy terrain is nothing short of magical. The Hraunfossar waterfalls, with their cascading streams flowing over the Hvítá river canyon, are a sight to behold. The Langjökull glacier looms in the distance, a silent guardian of this frozen paradise. As you continue to Deildartunguhver, the most powerful hot spring in Europe, the contrast between the icy surroundings and the steaming waters is a testament to Iceland’s geothermal wonders. A visit to the Snorrastofa museum in Reykholt offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history, with exhibits of Snorri Sturluson’s writings and the ancient Snorralaug hot tub.

“Contemplative Nature at its Best! - These stunning waterfalls were worth the visit by themselves … we saw them as part of a tour, but the size and beauty against the stark landscape made it worth the visit.” - Reviewed on 2023-08-14

Cozy Celebrations Amidst the Snow

As the sun sets early at 15:23, the village of Reykholt takes on a cozy charm, perfect for embracing the warmth of indoor celebrations. The waxing gibbous moon casts a gentle glow over the snow-covered landscape, creating a serene atmosphere for New Year’s Eve festivities. The high probability of snow ensures a picturesque setting, with the snow depth reaching nearly 30 cm, adding to the village’s enchanting allure.

On December 29th, the weather continues its wintry dance, with temperatures feeling as low as -2.5°C. The wind gusts, reaching up to 34.7 km/h, add a biting chill to the air, making it a day for cozy indoor explorations or short outdoor adventures. The West Iceland and Krauma SPA Tour offers a perfect escape, starting at 9:00 AM. The tour takes you through the scenic landscapes of West Iceland, with stops at the Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls, where the icy waters flow beneath the lava fields.

“Great day in West Iceland - Wonderful day out with Anton. This side of Iceland is massively underrated and we had such a nice day out seeing absolutely beautiful waterfalls, fjords and then relaxing at the Krauma Spa which was super nice.” - Reviewed on 2024-09-11

A New Year’s Eve to Remember

As the clock ticks towards midnight, Reykholt’s New Year’s Eve celebrations offer a unique blend of tradition and modernity. The village’s small community gathers to welcome the new year with warmth and camaraderie, a stark contrast to the icy surroundings. The snow-covered streets, illuminated by the soft glow of streetlights, create a magical setting for the festivities.

The Krauma SPA, with its geothermal baths, offers a perfect retreat to unwind and reflect on the year gone by. The hot water, sourced from the Deildartunguhver hot spring, provides a soothing contrast to the cold air, making it an ideal spot to relax and rejuvenate. As you soak in the warm waters, the beauty of Iceland’s winter landscape unfolds around you, a reminder of the raw beauty and resilience of nature.

Reykholt, with its blend of natural wonders and cultural richness, offers a New Year’s Eve experience like no other. The village’s charm, coupled with the thrill of exploring its icy landscapes, makes it a destination worth braving the cold for. As you bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new, Reykholt’s winter magic leaves an indelible mark on your soul, a testament to the beauty and wonder of Iceland’s polar regions.