Vikings in Iceland

Iceland goes back to its roots every summer, as it is almost literally invaded by Vikings.

People from around the world come to celebrate the International Viking Festival at the specially-built Viking Village, which comes alive with the wild and exciting spirit of Vikings.

Displays include traditional Viking arts and crafts, as well as a traditional Viking feast. Men in full Viking battle dress square up to each other and put on displays of traditional Viking battles.

The Viking Village near Iceland's capital, Reykjavik, is the perfect setting for the events as the country truly is Viking territory. Iceland was the last place on earth to be inhabited by humans and it was members of the Vikings who conquered the cold to set up home here many centuries ago.

It is these brave pioneers who are celebrated and remembered at this event every year, but while the conditions may be almost as harsh as when the Vikings first set up home around 874 AD, today offers a much more inviting trip for travellers, with the Viking Hotel proving particularly hospitable.