The White Falcon - 11.06.1993, Page 5

Summer weather invites a stroll through Heidmork
By J02 Colleen “Ghostwriter” Casper
If you just want to walk in the park, you are
in for a lot more than you expected. Located
in southeast Reykjavik, Heidmork, which
means hilly park, has a little something for
everyone to enjoy. Seven thousand acres of
land contain grassy areas, walking and run-
ning paths and even small forests. These are
just some of the treasures that the park has to
offer.
Children and adults can have the pleasure
of playing in and around trees, exploring
caves and enjoying the wild Icelandic coun-
tryside.
The scenery at the Heidmork open area provides a quiet, peaceful environment for city
dwellers and travellers alike. Above, two youngsters enjoy a picnic at the park. Lower left,
a clearly marked path provides easy access through the thickly wooded areas. The groomed
paths meander through the rolling lava hillsfor miles. (Photos by J03 (S W) Andreas Walter)
For those plant enthusiasts out there, flora
are clearly identified throughout the park by
engraved plaques, so your experience can be
enjoyable and educational.
Walkways in thepark weave lazily through
the trees, emerging every once in a while into
the sunlight. Open areas, carpeted in grass,
offer an excellent area to settle down and take
a mid-day nap.
Take route 41 into Reykjavik. At the
second light in town, turn right at the white
sports center. Follow this road to the next
light and make a right, the sign will say 412
and Vatnsendi. The road will turn into dirt
and there will be a fork in the road, bear to the
right. For access to the paved walking areas
of the park, drive to the third parking lot and
park. A large map is available to show you all
the marked hiking/running areas.
For more information on the park or other
tourists areas, call the Reykjavik tourist infor-
mation center at 9-91-25855.
A few tips to increase your
hiking pleasure in Iceland
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me
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Those who participate in hiking are not exposed to
a high potential for accidents or injuries. However,
accidents and near-misses have occurred in Iceland.
Always follow these simple rules: Plan your hike
and know where you are going; leave your proposed
route and time schedule with someone; prepare for
your hiking trip by having proper clothing and foot-
wear, and face traffic when walking on roads.
Because geysers and hot springs can be very de-
ceptive, use caution in these areas. Each year, espe-
cially during the summer months, numerous people
are burned by lack of caution around hot spring
areas. Walking too close to the spring can cause the
observer to fall through the thin crust, and children
have been known to place their hands over the geyser
tlets. The results range from minor to very serious
ims. Enjoy the natural wonders Iceland offers, but
lease use caution and common sense.
Seamen’s Day
stresses heritage
Hundreds of people turned up
Sunday to observe the Seamen's
Day celebrations held at the
Keflavik Harbor. Spectators
cheered on as local youth partici-
pated in balancing feats, water
survival techniques and rowing
competitions between nearby vil-
lages.
The holiday has been observed
since 1938 when the Icelandic
Maritime Union decided to dedi-
cate a special day of celebration
for seamen.
Here, two participants hang on
to a log after knocking each other
off with pillows. (Photo by J03
(SW) Andreas Walter)
June 11,1993
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