Grapevine’s Best Of 2016: Best Hike

Reykjavík is a relatively small city, but even so, sometimes you need a bit of local advice to find what you’re looking for, whether it’s a good people-watching spot, somewhere to see some contemporary art, or the best place to catch an Icelandic movie. Don’t worry, friends—we’ve got you covered via our Best of Reykjavík 2016 series. Here are some of our favourite spots in Reykjavík, for all kinds of super-fun days and nights out. Enjoy! And if you try our list, you can let us know what you thought of the selections via letters@grapevine.is.

Best Hike

Winner: Móskarðshnjúkar
This beautiful hike lies a little way off the beaten track of the Esja hike. You need a good car to get there, but it’s worth it. “It’s a slightly more exotic route, walking over rhyolite—the same material found in the Andes,” said the panel. “The path isn’t always clear, and it’s a little wild, so you’ll see way fewer people here than on any of the other trails. It’s a good choice for getting away from the crowds.”

Runner up: Helgafell
Driving to Helgafell, just outside Hafnarfjörður, really feels like getting into the wilds despite its proximity to the city. It’s a nice light walk across a lava field and then up a gentle slope to a 300 metre peak that offers a nice view over the Reykjanes peninsula.

Runner up: Esja
This is a classic hike up the distinctive mountain that towers over the Faxaflói bay across from Reykjavík. You can get to the start of the track by taking the bus, which makes this hike super convenient. You can either hike up to the base camp level, or continue all the way up the rough path to the top.

Read more of our Best of 2016 lists here.