Garðabær: Lava, History and Design

Garðabær combines protected landscapes and traces of the past with Icelandic design, swimming options and a guided tasting tour. Its range of themes extends from lava formations to a Viking Age settlement site. When looking for a holiday apartment, consider which experiences you want to shape your trip: nature and history, design, time at the pool or an appointment arranged in advance at Eimverk.

Lava, protected areas and traces of the past

Gálgahraun is a 108.2-hectare nature reserve. It includes the old Fógetagata path and Gálgaklettur, an ancient execution site. Nature and cultural heritage are therefore both defining themes of the reserve. Those interested in historical traces will find a different perspective here than simply taking in the landscape: the old path and the execution site point to the history of the area.

The Búrfell protected area reveals a different geological side of Garðabær. Lava channels, ravines and fissures were formed by the crater’s lava flows. These striking formations give the area its distinctive character. By contrast, Gálgahraun explicitly combines protected nature with historical traces; Búrfell draws the eye more strongly to a landscape shaped by lava.

From the Viking Age to the history of Iceland

Hofsstaðir is a Viking Age settlement site, dated to approximately 870–930. The longhouse is believed to have housed around 20 to 30 people. The approximate dating places the settlement in an era without assigning it a single year; the estimated number of inhabitants gives an idea of the scale of the longhouse.

Bessastaðir is the residence of the President of Iceland and an important historical site that has played a significant role in the country’s history. Together, Hofsstaðir and Bessastaðir represent different historical themes: one is an archaeological settlement site from the Viking Age, while the other is a place of importance to Iceland’s history and serves as the presidential residence. If history is of particular interest to you, these themes can help shape your choice of activities.

Design, water and a tasting

The Museum of Design and Applied Art collects, archives and presents Icelandic design from 1900 to the present day. Its broad time span makes the museum a destination for anyone interested in design across different eras. Design thus complements the archaeological and historical themes with its own perspective on Icelandic culture.

Álftaneslaug swimming pool features Iceland’s only wave pool, two water slides, hot tubs and a children’s pool. These different features offer a range of ways to enjoy a day at the pool. As the facilities may change during renovations, check the latest information before planning a visit.

Eimverk distillery offers a guided tasting tour that includes insights into the distillation process and a tasting. The tour lasts just over an hour and is available only by prior appointment. So don’t plan this activity spontaneously: arrange an appointment in advance and confirm it before your trip.

Plan experiences and accommodation to suit your trip

Bus routes 1, 22, 23 and 24 serve Garðabær and Álftanes. If you plan to use the buses, check the current routes before your trip, as they may change. When choosing a holiday apartment, it helps to first decide what you want to focus on: protected landscapes, history, design, swimming options or the tour that requires an appointment. Then factor your transport plans into your choice.

Discover more destinations: Mosfellsbær, Seltjarnarnes, Hafnarfjördur, Reykjavik, Kópavogur.

Return to the main travel overview: Höfudborgarsvædi.