3 Best Sights in Akureyri, Iceland

There are 112 steps leading up to Akureyri’s main church, which, with its striking facade, is also one of the town’s most iconic buildings. Designed by state architect Guðjón Samúelsson, who also designed Hallgrímskirkja in Reykjavík, the church has provided a nice center point for the town since it was built in 1940. Interesting features include the windows, which illustrate moments in Iceland’s spiritual history. One window was believed to have been salvaged from Coventry Cathedral, which was destroyed during World War II.

Situated on the gentle slopes of Mt. Súlur, 3 km (2 miles) south of Akureyri town center, the impressive Kjarnaskógur woodland is one of Iceland’s most enchanting destinations. It is endowed with over a million trees and also features extensive trails and lovely recreational areas. Appealing in every season, the area is a magnet for local athletes as well as families who make great use of the beautifully designed play areas, barbecue facilities, and campground. During the dark winter months, its well-lit trails double as tracks for excellent cross-country skiing.

Located around 30 miles south of the Arctic Circle, Lystigarður Akureyrar is one of the most northern botanical gardens in the world and a paradise of trees, flowers, and shrubs. Established by local women in 1912, with the botanical area opening in 1957, today the garden is home to 430 native and 6,600 non-native plant species, including some rare arctic and exotic plants. It’s a short walk from the church on Eyrarlandsvegur.