Let’s be honest, aside from the fact that it is a filming location for Game of Thrones, what do you really know about Iceland? Probably not a lot other than it’s an island, it’s cold, and it’s really, really, pretty. But there is so much more to this Nordic country than being a scenic backdrop for Jon Snow and the white walkers. Take a read through these fast facts about Iceland. Just be warned, you will want to book a flight when you’re done. Here’s a list of interesting facts about Iceland you probably didn’t know.
1. Many Icelandic people believe in elves.
In Iceland, they are referred to as the hidden people, also known as the Huldufólk. Some locals are extra cautious around certain areas so as not to disturb them. Even those that claim they don’t believe will be careful in areas where it’s rumoured that the Huldufólk live. If you’re interested in learning more, there are several folklore tours. Or you can visit Hafnarfjordur, which is said to have the largest population of the hidden people.
2. Iceland doesn’t have a McDonald’s.
Not a single one. The few stores closed their doors in 2009, following the country’s financial crisis. But, there is plenty of traditional food to try. Historically, fermented shark and puffin hearts were considered delicacies. However, they are less common now that both species are at risk. Smoked lamb, salted fish, and skyr (like a yogurt) are delicious must-tries.
3. Iceland has some of the best hot dogs in the world.
Some people even think that the hot dogs in Iceland are the greatest in the world. The best place to try one is at Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur hot dog stand by Harpa in the capital city of Reykjavik. It’s been opened since 1937. For more tips on what to do in Reykjavik, check out our guide here.
4. There are no mosquitos in Iceland.
Bonus points for Iceland, right?
5. Eyjafjallajokull is entirely covered by an ice cap.
Other facts about Eyjafjallajökull are that the name is a combination of words that mean island, mountain, and glacier. Also, ash from the 1821 eruption can still be found in the area today.
6. Eyjafjallajokull might be the most famous volcano, but it’s one of many.
Eyjafjallajokull made headlines around the world when it erupted in April of 2010. But, while it may be Iceland’s best-known volcano, it’s certainly not the only one. There are about 130 altogether, 30 of which are active!
7. Iceland experiences volcano eruptions every 4 to 5 years.
One of the nation’s biggest volcanoes, Katla, has been rumbling since early 2017 and is expected to erupt soon.
8. Iceland hasn’t had a standing military since 1869.
It is, however, an active member of NATO.
9. Icelandic horses have more gaits than any other breed.
They are descended from the original horses brought over by the Vikings. They are known as the Icelandic horse, but they are much smaller than an average horse and almost pony-sized.
10. Iceland has a penis museum.
The Iceland Phallological Museum in Reykjavik has a collection which consists of 280 varieties of the phallus from mammals in Iceland, including one from a man. It is currently the most extensive museum of its kind in the world.
11. Iceland has no railway system.
But, does make for very scenic road trips!
12. Icelanders are picky about names.
The goal is to preserve the traditional language, so anything ‘new’ has to go through the Icelandic naming council. Furthermore, Icelanders always go by their first name, even in the phone book. Last names here aren’t traditional, but rather just refer to the fact that you are the son or daughter of either your father or mother.
13. Icelanders have a “Beer Day”.
Iceland had a long period of prohibition, between 1915 and ending on March 1st, 1989, which the locals now refer to as “Beer Day”.
14. Iceland only has one native animal.
The Arctic fox holds claim to this honour.
15. Iceland is home to one of the first parliaments in the world.
It was established in the year 930.
16. Iceland is one of only two places in the world where you can see two of earth’s tectonic plates.
At Þingvellir National Park you can see it clearly and walk around both. Or, if you are feeling adventurous, snorkel or scuba dive between them. Most people say they meet here, but it’s actually where they move apart.
17. Iceland has no forests.
While there are trees, the country has no proper forests thanks to the ax-happy Vikings of the past. However, the glaciers and volcanoes definitely make up for it.
18. It’s the land of the northern lights and the midnight sun.
Most people know that Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights during the winter months. But, summer in this country is equally amazing with almost 24 hours of daylight around the summer solstice.
19. It’s one of the most eco-friendly places in the world.
Thanks to all the volcanic activity, nearly 80% of the country runs on hydro and geothermal energy. This is probably one of the best facts about Iceland!
20. It’s not as cold as you think.
With a name like Iceland, it’s easy to imagine frigid winter temperatures. But, while the country definitely experiences winter, an Icelandic winter has nothing on a Canadian winter. The average winter temperature is two degrees Celsius. Does that even count as cold?
