-
(no stars)
- 1-2 km
- Easy
- Free
- Malvīne
- 1 hour or less
A lush and peaceful spot in the very north of Iceland
If arriving in the small town of Akureyri without knowing much about it, you would never guess that a town located so high up north cherishes one of the nicest and lushest green parks and botanical gardens in the whole country. Moreover, it is also one of the northernmost botanical gardens in the world.
The history of the park itself dates back to the beginning of 20th century, but the botanical garden section was opened a bit later – in 1957.
Interestingly, the initiative to open a park in Akureyri came from local housewives who expressed the need for such area to be developed in town for them to relax. The park has grown throughout time and it now covers an area of about 3.7 hectares.
The park holds three important monuments: The first one is dedicated to Matthias Jochumsson, an Icelandic poet, a pastor and the author of Iceland’s national anthem. The second one was built in honor of Margrethe Schiöt, a woman who managed the park for over thirty years. The third one is to commemorate the founder of the park’s botanic section – Jon Rognvaldsson.
Opening hours
Weekdays: 8:00 - 22:00
Weekends: 9:00 - 22:00
How to get there
Akureyri park and botanical garden can be very easily reached as it is located near downtown.
If you are located by the main church of Akureyri - Akureyrarkirkja - then simply follow Eyrarlandsvegur and you will find yourself by one of the park's entrances.
There are several directional signs leading to the garden making it pretty impossible to get lost.