Sports and Recreation

Nature and the outdoors
There is a lot of open space surrounding the town of Akureyri with a large variety of outdoor possibilities. There are a number of interesting walks near the town, such as the area of Óshólmur along the river Eyjafjarđará, Krossanesborgir to the north of “the village” Glerárţorp and of course in the woods of Kjarnaskógur, which offers lovely play areas for children.

Those who prefer longer hikes with guides are requested to contact the Akureyri Touring Club, which offer mountain hiking and winter ski-walking trips. Another special way to enjoy the outdoors is on horseback.

Pools and Golf
Akureyri Swimming Pool is one of the best in the country and has over 300.000 visitors per year. There is a 25 m long pool, 4 different kinds of hot pots, a steam bath, two water slides, and indoor and outdoor toddler ponds. Next to the pool is a family park and play ground. There is another indoor swimming pool (16 m) attached to the sports hall of Glerárskóli.

The northern-most 18-hole golf course in the world is located in Akureyri. The golf club runs the famous Arctic Open Competition. The reason for it being so special is that it is always played around mid-summer’s night (approx. 21st June) which means it is bright enough to play the whole night long.

Winter sports centre
Akureyri is the best area in Iceland to practise or enjoy skiing, be it downhill, cross-country or snow-boarding. The ski area is on Mt. Hlíđarfjall which is only 5 km from the town centre and the lifts range from 500–1000 m above sea level. There is an international competition held once a year in March/April.

Akureyri also has a covered skating rink near the town centre for those who prefer less speed but just as much fun!

Super Jeeps and snowmobiles
Akureyri and the surrounding area is a paradise for drivers and riders. The jeeps are modified with bigger tyres and this enables one to drive on snow and around the glaciers. Many different types of adventure tours are on offer, such as fun Super Jeep tours into the highlands as well as snowmobile tours with ice-fishing and other exiting things included.

Other usefull Akureyri links:

• Interesting places

• Growth and greenery

• Art and culture

• Hiking and trails

• Sports and Recreation

• Shopping and Nightlife

• Economy and Society

• Map of Akureyri

• Akureyri main page