Iceland review - 2016, Page 137

ICELAND REVIEW 135
The Power of Icelandic Energy
ON Power’s geothermal energy exhibition at Hellisheiði power plant pro-
vides a fascinating look into what keeps Iceland powered. It’s a great example
of how raw geothermal energy can be used in a sustainable, clean manner.
Just 25 km (16 miles) from downtown Reykjavík, the exhibition draws curi-
ous travelers eager to learn about one of Iceland’s main power sources. The
exhibition offers interactive multimedia installations, presentations and wall
displays explaining interesting facts. It’s a comprehensive guide to under-
standing geothermal energy.
The exhibition includes a view of the turbine rooms, a short film about
the origins of geothermal energy, an impressive collection of rocks and min-
erals, and an interactive presentation of the energy production process. ON
Power’s exhibition brings science to life. After touring the facilities, guests
can stop by the café for a light bite to eat while overlooking the vast lava field
outside the plant. onpower.is
The Recipe for a Glorious Day
Reykjavík Excursions offers a range of exciting day tours, many of which
include the ever popular Golden Circle. Travelers get to visit the erupting hot
spring Strokkur at the Geysir geothermal area, the mighty waterfall Gullfoss,
which tumbles 32 meters (105 feet) down a crevice, and the historically and
geologically significant Þingvellir National Park. In addition to the classic stops,
Reykjavík Excursions now takes visitors to the greenhouses at Friðheimar
where they can learn how tomatoes and cucumbers are grown in a sub-Arctic
climate and have a taste of the products.
Also, travelers can go snorkeling in the crystal-clear Silfra lake at Þingvellir, in
a rift between the American and Eurasian tectonic plates; relax in the hot tubs
and natural steam bath of Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths, where locals
have enjoyed the healing powers of the steam coming straight from the ground
for almost a century; explore nature from the back of an Icelandic horse; or feel
the thrill of snowmobiling on Langjökull glacier. For those with little time to
spare, Reykjavík Excursions also offers express afternoon and evening tours. re.is
Pools Worth Making a Splash About
Reykjavík’s geothermal swimming pools offer a place to soothe your cares
away and soak up the many therapeutic benefits of Icelandic water. Perfect
for a relaxing dip or a few laps. There’s fun for the young and young-at-heart
on the water slides and it’s always a good time to unwind in the range of hot
tubs by the poolside and get to know the local gossip. Why not visit the ‘Swim-
ming Palace,’ Sundhöll in, Iceland’s oldest and most charming pool, designed
by renowned architect Guðjón Samúelsson? Enjoy the range of facilities at
Laugardalslaug, including 50-meter (164-foot) in and outdoor pools, a range of
hot tubs and waterslides, and for family fun look no further than Árbæjarlaug
where the little ones can enjoy a children’s pool, paddling pool, slides and
water fountains. In the western part of town is the recently renovated, small
and friendly Vesturbæjarlaug. Located within walking distance of the city
center, it’s good for a soothing soak after a day of shopping and sightseeing.
visitreykjavik.is/swimming-reykjavik
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