I awoke to a strange noise and after investigation I realised that it was the wind. It did not sound inviting!

There is a high temperature of -1C expected today … warm by Icelandic standards.

We started the day with a walk to the shops so Scott could purchase the rug he had decided was his. Breakfast was hotdogs from the famous stand.

The plan for today was to explore the western part of Reykjavik and to see the Fly over Iceland exhibit recommended by Narelle.

No gloves or beanie were needed for today, the wind had settled and it was just cold. We walked past the harbour where the water was frozen. There was plenty of snow all around and walking was conducted in a careful manner.

Flyover Iceland was housed in a purpose built complex and cost 5490 ISK or around $55AUD or 36€ each.

There was a lovely little cafe in the foyer where we bought a drink while waiting for the experience.

Once your session starts, you are led upstairs and taken through two rooms of multi media outlining some of the history of Iceland and the role of trolls. There are lots of steps and standing at the beginning.

Then you are strapped into a set of seats which are suspended in the air while you are being whisked across fields, lakes, rivers, glaciers and basalt mountains. The experience is also enhanced by a fine spray of water when appropriate and the smell of sulphur in thermal areas. It is quite exhilarating and highly recommended.

The church still dominates the skyline

Lunch was decided easily when we saw a sign for Lobster soup at small cosy cafe.

We could see clouds coming across the harbour when we returned to the apartment. My personal cocktail waiter made us Bloody Mary’s to help keep us warm. It snowed the teensiest bit in the afternoon leaving a light dusting on cars.

We agreed that we had to have the Icelandic taster menu and Tapas Barinn had great reviews on the web. I realised that it was a Saturday night so I booked online – 5:30 or after 9 pm were the only choices available. I was lucky to get the 5:30 booking because the place was very busy.

The tapas menu here was varied with many choices. The option for the Icelandic gourmet feast was exquisite, offering 9 courses. The cost was 10,900 ISK which is about $110AUD or 72€ each but it was worth it!

The lamb was so tender, the lobster was amazing, the Minke Whale was chewy and not to my liking.

Bread with olive tapenade and hummus
Shots of Brennivin with lamb tenderloin in liquorice sauce
Smoked Puffin with Blueberry ‘Brennivin’ sauce
Cava Sangria
Icelandic Arctic Char
Awesome!!!
Lobster tails
Lobster tails
Minke Whale
Icelandic lamb

The Puffin was a little fishy but delicious. To taste the local delicacies is a must if you want the whole cultural experience.

White Chocolate ‘Skyr’ mousse

Tapas Barinn was only 3 minutes walk from the apartment so we retired for the day to prepare for the early morning flight.

Excellent garnish!

Fireworks could be seen and heard being let off in various places .

G óða Nótt