Words by

John Rogers

@jhnrgrs

As you’ve no doubt heard, Iceland is getting a solar eclipse this Friday. Thousands are flocking over for the spectacle with their special sunglasses and camera tripods.

So we thought we’d pull together a list of some nice, relatively easy-to-reach spots to watch from, in case the skies are actually clear (weather report not looking great, sadly).

We haven’t, like, been there and scouted them out or anything, but these spots all offer high ground, and should have an unencumbered view towards the rising sun, unless someone built a hotel in the way last week or something.

1. Perlan

Perlan is a big fancy design construction that holds a restaurant and museum. The viewing platforms would be perf for eclipse viewing, but it looks like they open at 10:00, so you might not be able to get to the top of Perlan until after the key total-eclipse moment, unless they open early. But it’s on a big hill, and still offers a magnificent view over Reykjavík. It’s also convenient for those in the town centre – maybe a fifteen minute walk from the 101 area.

2. Esja

If you’re feeling adventurous, you could set out nice and early and head over to Mt Esja, across the harbour from Reykjavík. At this time of year, it’s very snowy up there, so don’t try and get too high unless you have proper equipment – but you should still be able to find a fine spot.

3. Grótta

This area of Reykjavík – a nature reserve, beach and lighthouse on the end of the Seltjanarnes peninsula – offers unencumbered views of the sea and sky in all directions. It’s pretty dang windy down there though, so bundle up as warm as you possibly can. And don’t take your dog. Grótta is a dog free paradise.

4. Hallgrímskirkja

The city’s biggest landmark will be a natural choice for many. Although it’s in the middle of Reykjavík, it’s on the crest of capital’s central hill, so you should be able to see pretty well from here, and there might be others around for a bit of a festival feeling. The church tower itself will probably be closed, but it has very narrow windows that only house one person each, so it would be a bit awkward up there anyway.

5. Nauthólsvík Beach

This man-made beach is down at the back of Pearlan. We think there should be a pretty good view from here. And maybe you can even see from the hotpots.

Please note: if you are super super excited about seeing the eclipse and have flown in from Australia or something, please visit your chosen spot in advance, preferably on the morning before the eclipse, so you can see first hand if there’s a clear view of the sun at the decisive moment of the total eclipse: 09:37. We don’t want you to miss it just because we didn’t have time to drive to each spot and make sure! Thanks! Love u! Don’t forget to wear proper protective gear for your eyes! Pray for clear skies! Post your own suggestions in the comments if you like!

And hey, if you get great photos, we’re gonna make an open submission gallery of the best shots at about 4pm – send them to editor@grapevine.is. The best picture will win some cool Grapevine stuff like maybe a bag or a t-shirt! Awesome! Bye!