Atlantica - 01.06.2011, Page 70

68 a t l a n t i c a
On the outskirts of Reykjavík, you
will find Heidmörk, a municipal
conservation area. Founded half a
century ago, Heidmörk is a perfect place to
enjoy nature on the city’s doorstep. Located
only 10 km (6 miles) from the city center, it
covers an area of 2,800 acres. Red lava at
Raudhólar, 26 species of trees, 150 types of
wild flowers and 60 bird species, best spot-
ted around Lake Ellidavatn, this is a haven
for nature lovers.
From the city center to Heidmörk is
a two-hour walk but only fifteen min-
utes’ drive in this 1942 Ford, owned by
Jón Ásgeirsson, Atlantica’s landlord. You
can cut the time a further five
minutes by travelling in
car a little bit younger
than this 69-years-young
SUV.
Heidmörk is more
exotic (kind of ) and
interesting than most
of the places men-
tioned in guide books
about Reykjavík—
and is literally next
door. a

By Páll STefánSSon
Here We
Go Again