Social Events

The welcome reception will take place on May 30, at the Reykjavik City Hall. This is great opportunity to meet with other colleagues and friends.

Special excursions for conference guests

Most excursions require a minimum number of participants. Other excursions are available upon request. For further information contact the conference organizer Þetta tölvupóstfang er varið gegn ruslpóstsþjörkum, Þú verður að hafa JavaScript virkt til að sjá það. . Please register for the tours along with the hotel reservation on the registration form.


Afternoon tours on Friday June 1

1. Blue Lagoon – Geothermal bathing

BLUE LAGOON - Geothermal Seawater is a part of a unique eco-cycle where high technology and nature work in perfect harmony in Iceland's environment, and making the BLUE LAGOON - Geothermal Seawater, well-known for its active ingredients and healing power. The origin of the seawater is from 2000 meters beneath the surface. In its travels through porous lava, a blend of sea and fresh water undergoes mineral exchange and then near the surface, concentration occurs, due to vaporization, evaporation and finally, sedimentation. The lagoon at BLUE LAGOON - Geothermal Spa holds four million liters of water, all of which is renewed in 24 hours. The geothermal seawater's special ecosystem has a self-cleansing effect. Regular sampling shows that "common" bacteria do not thrive in this ecosystem. Thus additional cleansers such as chlorine are not needed. Its unique active ingredients: minerals, silica and blue green algae have been praised for their benefits on healthy skin and on skin problems such as eczema and psoriasis. The aquamarine blue color is the result of these active ingredients: minerals, silica and algae.
An afternoon tour to the Blue Lagoon is the perfect way to relax after a long conference day.

Departure at: 18:00 - Duration around 5 hours
Price: 102 EUR (8.700 ISK)

2. Horseback Riding on the Outskirts of Reykjavik

The Icelandic Horse is a small but strong, friendly, willing and docile animal who rarely gives riders any trouble. This trip is an excellent trip for all those interested in trying the Icelandic horse, a trek on the hardy, sure-footed Icelandic horse is an experience to remember. Whether you are a beginner or expert, old or young, these friendly horses, with their alert and willing nature are indeed a pleasure to ride in their natural surroundings. Pick up at the Hotel to the farm located around 20 minutes from Reykjavik. At the farm you are provided will all basic equipment, such as helmets, boots and rain clothes. We gather information about how much you have been riding and choose the proper horse to match your experience. A wholesome Icelandic meat soup will be served after the riding at the farm.

Departure at: 18:00 - Duration around 4 hours
Price: 79 EUR (6.800 ISK)

3. Whale Watching

Join us in an adventure at sea with an unforgettable trip into the world of whales and sea birds. The various types of whales commonly sighted include minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, harbor porpoises, the popular humpback whales and killer whales (orcas). The majestic fin- and sei whales are also occasional companions to our boats. We will be accompanied by sea birds such as gannets, puffins, guillemots, cormorants, gulls, kittiwakes, arctic terns, and many more. Our trips take us past several islands inhabited by colonies of puffin – a great photo opportunity!

Departure at: 17:30 - Duration around 4 hours
Price: 56 EUR (4.800 ISK)

4. Hiking on Esjan mountain

Esjan Mountain (909 meters above sea level) is a popular place for Icelanders to go hiking. Esjan is situated in about 20 min. drive from Reykjavík and looks over the fjord and the city.

Departure at: 18:00 - Duration around 4 hours
Price 48 EUR (4.200 ISK)

Special tour for conference guests on Saturday June 2

The Golden Circle – The best of Iceland in one day!

The Golden Circle is without doubt one of the most popular tourist destinations in Iceland, and not without reason. The tour consists of the Gullfoss waterfall, the Geysir hot springs and Þingvellir national park, all of which are famous in their own right, but can easily be enjoyed in the course of one day, making for an ideal day tour. Gullfoss, or the “Golden Waterfall” as the name implies, is located on the Hvitá river. The falls cascade 32m down in two stages. Often, colorful rainbows created by the sun on the spraying water can be enjoyed. In winter, massive ice formations decorate the falls. Not to be missed by anyone, the beauty of this waterfall can hardly be expressed fully in words. The geothermal field in Haukadalur is a natural wonder of hot springs and boiling mud pools. The “Great Geyser” even gave its name to this spectacular phenomenon. Today, the Geysir itself is no longer erupting, but nearby Strokkur sends up a column of water and steam up to 30 meters high every few minutes to the delight of onlookers, who strive to catch the moment on film. At the Geysir center visitors can enjoy a multimedia exhibition and learn more about the geology and history of the area. Also on spot is a restaurant and accommodation for those wishing to stay overnight. In summertime, the highland route of Lyngdalsheiði provides a convenient shortcut to Þingvellir for those traveling on four wheel drive.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Þingvellir national park is of immense historic and symbolic importance to Icelanders. It was long the site of the original Alþingi, or national parliament of the settlers, and the setting for many of the most important events in the history of the island. Established in 930, the Al ing was an assembly of free men that gathered at Þingvellir for two weeks each summer to settle disputes, set laws and arrange marriages. Þingvellir is also renowned for its geological significance. The area is located on the Mid-Atlantic ridge, where the continents of Europe and America drift apart, causing earthquakes and volcanic activity. Standing in the Almannagjá fissure, the visitor is literally situated between the continental plates. Þingvellir is also known for its exquisite beauty. The birch-covered lava fields and the clear blue waters of Lake Þingvallavatn produce a harmonious, almost serene landscape.
Icelandic meat soup at Gullfoss for lunch.

Departure at: 09:00 - Duration approx. 8 hours
Price:  100 EUR (8.500 ISK)

Other excursions available

Reykjavik city sightseeing - Daily at 09:00

The Reykjavík Grand Excursion is a detailed and comprehensive introduction to Reykjavík’s past and present. During this tour the city’s main attractions are highlighted on foot and by bus. The main landmarks, such as The Pearl and Hallgrímskirkja church and the National Museum of Iceland are visited. A tour where Reykjavík’s renowned charm and bustling life is brought to light.

Daily at 09:00. Pick-up from Grand Hotel Reykjavik at 08:30 - Duration approx. 8 hours
Price:  39 EUR (3.300 ISK)

Super jeep safari tour - Thorsmork

Heading for Thorsmork valley, a beautiful nature reserve situated between three glaciers. This magnificent valley offers a unique composition of glaciers, rocks and greenery, not to forget the unbridged glacial rivers we have to cross to get there. On the way we will try out the black sands on the south coast if conditions allow and stop at a glacial lagoon by the glacier Gígjökull. When we arrive in Þórsmörk we will be doing some hiking i.e. into Stakkholtsgjá fissure. Note: Wear warm clothes and sturdy shoes!

Daily at 09:00. Pick-up at Grand Hotel Reykjavik between 08:30 - 09:00 - Duration approx. 8  - 10 hours
Price:  221 EUR (18.800 ISK)