Reykjavik's largest forest - Oskjuhlid

While staying at Berjaya Reykjavik Natura Hotel, we urge you to enjoy the small forested area near the hotel property, known asÖskjuhlíð.  For locals, it’s a very popular outdoor area for recreation.  Located around Perlan, and the Reykjavik Natura property, the trees of Öskjuhlíð were planted in 1950 and now number some 200,000, making it one of the capital’s most forested areas.

This wooded area contains many footpaths that are ideal for running, walking or simply for strolling around the area. There are paths that weave throughout the forest, but don’t worry about getting lost.  One can just head up to Perlan or back down to the Reykjavik Natura, neither of which are ever that far away. Some of the paths also have exercise stations with equipment for those wanting a cross –training workout, as well as rest areas with picnic tables. Another nice feature about this forest is that the trees provide shelter when the weather isn’t so nice, allowing guests to enjoy the outdoors on days they may not have otherwise been able to. 

While walking the paths of the forest, it is not uncommon to spot rabbits running between the trees. These rabbits were once pets that were released into the wild by their owners and have now enjoy life in this forest oasis. Passerby’s often throw food to the rabbits as they walk the path, and some energetic kids try to catch rabbits with their coats just for some harmless fun.

Öskjuhlíð is really just a link in the entire system of hiking trails as the paths lead from Perlan at the top, down to the bottom of the hill where you will find the thermal beach, Nautholsvik. Other stops along these walkways include the old center across the Vatnsmýri, Fossvogs, Elliðaárdalur Valley, and Elliðarárvatn Lake into Heiðmörk. And on each side of Öskjuhlíð, you can find the very old Fossvogskirkjugardur cemetery while on the west side of the hill is Keiluhollin, a place for bowling and billiards.

Öskjuhlíð is also a historical place where one can find old shelters, saps, and barracks from World War II when the British army occupied Iceland. These old stone shelters are fascinating and add even more interest to these trails. So, if your travels bring you to Berjaya Reykjavik Natura Hotel, make sure to add the trails of Öskjuhlíð to your To Do list. This beautiful forest with its animals, exercise opportunities, and plenty of history make it a place you won’t forget.