Iceland is a cinematic country. It is hardly surprising that it continually attracts the attention of filmmakers and serves as fertile ground for visual art. This week brings several events celebrating the power of cinema—the opening of the Stockfish Film and Industry Festival and a screening of Akira Kurosawa’s classic Seven Samurai. In between, there… The post What To Do This Week | Stockfish, Dark Ambient and Other Events appeared first on Iceland Review.

Work is continuing on the luxury Höfða Lodge in northern Grenivík after British investor Russ DeLeon took full ownership of the project. As reported by Morgunblaðið, contractors are currently on site completing the final stages of construction at the hotel, which sits on the headland of Þengilhöfði overlooking the fjord Eyjafjörður. What’s the Story? British… The post Work Restarts on Höfða Lodge as British Investor Steps In appeared first on Iceland Review.

The University of Iceland is preparing to relaunch Evrópuvefur, its European affairs website as the country moves closer to a referendum on whether to continue negotiations on joining the European Union. The vote is expected to take place on 29 August, and recent weeks have seen a sharp rise in public interest in the topic.… The post University of Iceland to Revamp Website Ahead of EU Referendum appeared first on Iceland Review.

Inflation in Iceland is expected to increase slightly in March, according to a new economic forecast published by Landsbankinn’s research department. The bank’s analysts project annual inflation of 5.4% for March, up from 5.2% recorded in February. As reported by RÚV, the estimate points to a modest monthly increase in price pressures across the economy.… The post Inflation Forecast to Rise to 5.4% in March appeared first on Iceland Review.

Telecommunications company Síminn is negotiating with media firm Sýn to acquire several Icelandic online and radio outlets. As reported by RÚV, the buy-out will include media companies such as Vísir, and the radio stations Bylgjan, Léttbylgjan, FM957 and X977. What’s the Story? Proposed acquisition by Síminn of media outlets from Sýn including Vísir, Bylgjan, Léttbylgjan, FM957… The post Icelandic Media Brands Could Be Sold in ISK 5.25bn Deal appeared first on Iceland Review.

The Icelandic government is considering tougher penalties for copyright infringement, with a proposal to increase the maximum prison sentence from two years to six. As reported by RÚV, the draft legislation has been published on the government’s public consultation portal by Logi Einarsson, Iceland’s Minister of Culture. What’s the Story? Draft bill by Logi Einarsson… The post Minister Proposes Tougher Penalties for Copyright Infringement appeared first on Iceland Review.

Ocean measurements collected during a recent winter expedition indicate unusually high sea temperatures in waters around Iceland, according to preliminary findings from the Marine and Freshwater Research Institute. The research vessel Þórunn Þórðardóttir research vessel completed a 15-day survey on 17 February as part of the institute’s long-running marine monitoring programme. What’s the Story? Winter… The post Winter Sea Temperatures Reach Record Levels Near Iceland appeared first on Icelan...

Demolition work has begun on several homes in Grindavík that were declared unsafe following the earthquakes that struck the town in recent months. As reported by RÚV, contractors started removing three residential buildings on Mánagata and Mánagerði earlier today. The structures are among a number of properties judged unusable after repeated seismic activity in the… The post Demolition Begins on Earthquake-Damaged Homes in Grindavík appeared first on Iceland Review.

A legal dispute over gravel mining on church-owned land in south Iceland will now be heard on its merits after an appeals ruling required the Reykjavík District Court to accept a lawsuit filed by members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. As reported by RÚV, the case was brought by 21 parishioners who are challenging an… The post Supreme Court Reopens Case on Church Mining Deal appeared first on Iceland Review.

Police in the capital area say they received numerous reports of pickpocketing in central Reykjavík over the weekend, particularly in busy tourist locations. As reported by mbl.is, incidents were most frequently reported near Hallgrímskirkja Lutheran Church and along the streets, Skólavörðustígur and Laugavegur.  What’s the Story? Reports of pickpocketing in central Reykjavík over the weekend… The post Police Warn of Pickpocketing in Central Reykjavík appeared first on Iceland Review.

Music is king in Iceland. Choosing events for this week’s column proved challenging, as there are quite a few worth mentioning. Still, we’ve selected the unmissable ones: from a two-day festival at DIY venue R6013 to a jazz night and a sophisticated electronic set by Halldór Eldjárn. Whatever your taste, there’s a spot for you.… The post What To Do This Week | Music Festival, Icelandic Comedy and Other Events appeared first on Iceland Review.

A developing low pressure system to the south of Iceland is expected to bring strong winds, sleet and hazardous travel conditions across the country on Sunday. According to the weather report from the Icelandic Met Office, southeasterly winds will strengthen through the day, first affecting southern areas around midday before spreading towards the north-east.  What’s… The post Strong Winds and Sleet Expected Across Iceland appeared first on Iceland Review.

Ticket sales have officially opened for the Stockfish Film and Business Festival 2026, set to take place in Reykjavík. The ten-day boutique festival runs from 19 to 29 March, with screenings and events hosted at Bíó Paradís and other local venues. Festival organisers promise a celebration of storytelling, cinematic atmosphere, and engaging conversations. What’s This… The post Tickets Now Available for Stockfish Film Festival 2026 appeared first on Iceland Review.

Grafarvogur has been formally designated a nature reserve after Iceland’s environment minister signed a new protection declaration covering the estuary and surrounding mudflats. According to a press release, the measure was approved by Jóhann Páll Jóhannsson in cooperation with Reykjavík City Council and the Icelandic Institute of Natural History. What’s the Story? Grafarvogur estuary in… The post Reykjavík’s Grafarvogur Area Granted Nature Reserve Status appeared first on Iceland Review.

A small restaurant in northern Iceland has been recognised internationally for serving what judges described as the best fish and chips outside the British Isles. As reported by RÚV, the family-run restaurant Fish and Chips Lake Mývatn, located in Reykjahlíð by Lake Mývatn, received the award at an international fish cooking competition held in London.… The post Fish and Chips Lake Mývatn Named Best Outside British Isles appeared first on Iceland Review.

A new survey suggests that artificial intelligence is already widely used in Iceland, while many people also express concerns about its impact on society and democracy. As reported by RÚV, the findings appear in a report by the Icelandic Media Commission and Netvís, and is based on survey data collected by Maskína. What’s the Story?… The post Report Highlights Icelanders’ Concerns Over Artificial Intelligence appeared first on Iceland Review.

A new survey conducted for Reykjavík City indicates that racial and cultural prejudice remains a concern in some municipal workplaces. As reported by RÚV, a notable number of employees reporting either experiencing or witnessing discriminatory behaviour over the past year. What’s the Story? Survey by the University of Iceland on racial and cultural prejudice in municipal… The post Survey Finds Workplace Discrimination Among Reykjavík City Staff appeared first on Iceland Review.

A psychiatrist in Iceland is urging stronger mental health services for autistic people. Dagur Bjarnason, a psychiatrist and senior physician at Capital Region Health Care, says access to support remains uneven despite significant need. As reported by RÚV, he warns that some individuals are struggling to access appropriate care within the current system. What’s the Story?… The post Call to Strengthen Autism Mental Health Services in Iceland appeared first on Iceland Review.

A British national has been barred from entering Iceland for two years after authorities found he had been providing tourism services without the necessary permits. As reported by RÚV, the man is a British citizen of Chinese origin in his late forties, and was recently stopped by police in Selfoss while transporting five passengers in… The post Immigration Authorities Uphold Ban on Unlicensed Tour Guide appeared first on Iceland Review.

Remarks by a senior Catholic official in Iceland about sexuality, and access to the Eucharist, have prompted public discussion about church teaching and the limits set by national law. As reported by RÚV, Reverend Jakob Rolland, chancellor of the Catholic Church in Iceland, made the comments during an interview on the podcast Meining.  (For added context, […] The post Catholic Leader’s Comments on Sexuality Spark Debate in Iceland appeared first on Iceland Review.

An avalanche swept along a dam above the northern Icelandic town of Siglufjörður around noon today, prompting continued monitoring of snow conditions across the region. According to the Icelandic Meteorological Office’s avalanche watch, the slide struck the Stóri-Boli dam near the inner part of the settlement. The construction is designed to protect the town and… The post Avalanche Hits Dam Above Siglufjörður appeared first on Iceland Review.

A large avalanche fell from a mountainside in northern Iceland overnight, crossing a road before continuing into the sea, according to local authorities. The slide came down from Ósbrekkufjall above the town of Ólafsfjörður last night. Although the avalanche was described as substantial, it did not threaten nearby homes or populated areas. What’s the Story? Avalanche… The post Avalanche Tumbles Into Sea Near Ólafsfjörður appeared first on Iceland Review.

A major avalanche has forced the closure of the road to Siglufjörður in northern Iceland after a large mass of snow swept across the route and into the sea. The slide occurred last night near Selskál, just outside the town of Siglufjörður, on the Tröllaskagi peninsula. According to the information from the Icelandic Meteorological Office, the… The post Massive Avalanche Closes Siglufjörður Road After Sweeping Into Sea appeared first on Iceland Review.

A shallow earthquake measuring 3.7 in magnitude was recorded near Torfajökull shortly before midday yesterday, according to Icelandic monitoring authorities. As reported by RÚV, the tremor occurred at 11:48 local time in the highland region west of Landmannalaugar. What’s the Story? Magnitude 3.7 earthquake recorded at 11:48 yesterday near Torfajökull, west of Landmannalaugar Epicentre measured… The post Magnitude 3.7 Earthquake Recorded Near Torfajökull appeared first on Iceland Review.

Iceland has submitted a statement to the International Court of Justice as part of legal proceedings concerning Israel’s military operations in the Gaza Strip. As reported by Vísir, it marks the first time the country has participated in a case of this kind. What’s the Story? Statement submitted by Ministry for Foreign Affairs (Iceland) to… The post Iceland Joins International Court Case on Gaza Conflict appeared first on Iceland Review.

Passenger departures by foreign visitors through Keflavík International Airport totalled about 147,000 in February, according to figures published by the Icelandic Tourist Board. The number represents a 0.9% decrease compared with February 2025. What’s the Story? Around 147,000 foreign passenger departures through Keflavík International Airport in February, according to the Icelandic Tourist Board 0.9% decrease… The post UK and US Visitors Still Lead Iceland Tourism appeared first on Iceland ...

A government working group has proposed extending Iceland’s main Route 1 (Iceland Ring Road) to include roads in the Westfjords. As reported by RÚV, the move would bring the region onto the country’s primary road network for the first time. What’s the Story? Review by a working group appointed by Eyjólfur Ármannsson on road classification… The post Proposal Would Extend Ring Road Into the Westfjords appeared first on Iceland Review.

Icelandic authorities say dozens of citizens have been helped to leave the Middle East following the outbreak of conflict in the region. As reported by RÚV, evacuation efforts continuing through coordinated flights and consular support. What’s the Story? Contact with 218 Icelandic citizens in the Middle East by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Iceland… The post 41 Icelanders Evacuated From Middle East Conflict Zone appeared first on Iceland Review.

The credit rating agency S&P Global Ratings has revised its outlook on Iceland to positive from stable, while reaffirming the country’s long- and short-term sovereign credit ratings at A+/A-1. As reported by Stjórnarráðs Íslands, the update was announced on 6 March and reflects expectations that Iceland’s public finances could strengthen over the coming years. What’s… The post S&P Upgrades Iceland’s Economic Outlook to Positive appeared first on Iceland Review.

Iceland’s parliament is set to debate a proposal to hold a national referendum on whether negotiations on joining the European Union should continue. As reported by RÚV, the motion was submitted by the Minister for Foreign Affairs and is the sole item scheduled for today’s session of the Alþingi. What’s the Story? Debate at the… The post Althingi to Debate EU Referendum Proposal appeared first on Iceland Review.

Icelandic author Kristín Guðmundsdóttir has published a new book designed to help foreign residents improve their everyday language skills. Handan Dalanna (“Beyond the Valleys”) is aimed at learners who have already completed Level 3 Icelandic and want to continue developing their abilities through practical reading. What’s This Story? A new book for Icelandic language learners… The post Icelandic Author Releases New Book For Language Learners appeared first on Iceland Review.

Iceland’s national carrier, Icelandair, has reported its busiest February on record, carrying 289,000 passengers during the month. The figure represents a 15% rise compared with the same period last year. Travellers heading to Iceland accounted for 42% of the airline’s passengers, while 21% departed from the country. Around 30% were connecting travellers passing through the… The post Icelandair Sees Surge in Travellers to and from Iceland in February appeared first on Iceland Review.

Icelandic authorities say they have been unable to make contact with the country’s twenty-six citizens believed to be in areas affected by the conflict in the Middle East. As reported by RÚV, nearly 120 Icelanders who had been in affected regions have already left, booked flights, or indicated they do not plan to depart. What’s… The post Iceland Working to Contact Citizens Stranded in Middle East appeared first on Iceland Review.

Nominations have been revealed for the 2026 Icelandic Music Awards, with the ceremony scheduled for 18 March at Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre in Reykjavík. As reported by RÚV, the event will take place in the Silfurberg hall and will be broadcast live. What’s the Story? 2026 Icelandic Music Awards ceremony on 18 March… The post 2026 Icelandic Music Awards Nominees Announced appeared first on Iceland Review.

Interest in viewing the Northern Lights, one of Iceland’s best-known natural attractions, has increased sharply worldwide, according to new research analysing travel trends ahead of 2026. A study by travel insurance provider InsureandGo found that global Google searches for Northern Lights tours have risen by 573% year on year. The phenomenon ranked second among the fastest-growing “natural bucket list”… The post Global Interest in Northern Lights Tours Rises Sharply appeared first on Iceland...

This article is brought to you in partnership with VHF Expeditions  There’s a certain feeling that comes with looking off towards the horizon and thinking, I wonder what’s beyond it.  Some call it wanderlust. Others, mere curiosity.  Regardless, it’s the quiet pull that asks you to step outside the familiar and move towards something unknown.… The post Discover The Arctic Riviera with VHF Expeditions appeared first on Iceland Review.

Two holiday-makers were rescued in Iceland’s central Highlands after requesting assistance during a multi-day cross-country ski journey, as reported by RÚV. The pair had been on a five-day trip from Akureyri when worsening weather forced them to seek refuge at an emergency shelter at Hreysiskvísl. They were located north of Þórisvatn Lake along the Sprengisandur… The post Skiers Rescued from Highland Shelter After Distress Signal appeared first on Iceland Review.

This article is brought to you in partnership with Viking Women Iceland is widely regarded as one of the best countries in the world for women to live, consistently ranking among the leaders in global gender equality. The country combines generous parental leave, affordable childcare, strong political representation, and comprehensive legal protections against discrimination and… The post How Viking Women Forge Sisterhood Through Adventure appeared first on Iceland Review.

Iceland’s Prime Minister has highlighted stark differences in unemployment rates between Icelandic and foreign citizens. As reported by RÚV, she described the situation as unusual and challenging for policymakers during an impromptu question session at Alþingi. What’s the Story? Unemployment at 7.3% nationwide, 10% among foreign nationals and barely measurable among Icelandic citizens, according to… The post Foreign Nationals Face Far Higher Unemployment in Iceland appeared first on Iceland R...

This week, customs authorities in Iceland confiscated thousands of illegal performance-enhancing substances as part of a coordinated international operation led by Europol. The operation, involving authorities in 30 countries, resulted in the seizure of drugs valued at €33 million, as well as the prosecution of 3,354 individuals and investigations into 43 organised crime groups. What’s […] The post Iceland Joins Europol Crackdown on Performance Drugs appeared first on Iceland Review.

A mountain road in south-west Iceland was temporarily shut after several traffic accidents in severe winter conditions. Police said the route across Hellisheiði remained closed for around an hour following crashes near the ski lodge in Hveradalur. Emergency services were called to help motorists after vehicles slid off the road in blizzard-like conditions. As reported… The post Three Taken to Hospital After Collisions on Hellisheiði Pass appeared first on Iceland Review.

One of the biggest dates in Iceland’s cinema calendar, the Stockfish Film and Industry Festival, begins next week. To mark the occasion, we’ve put together a special playlist featuring music by Icelandic artists composed for film and television. From haunting orchestral scores to minimalist electronic soundscapes, these tracks highlight the distinctive sonic world Icelandic composers… The post Iceland Review Playlist | Film Music appeared first on Iceland Review.

Travellers in northern parts of Iceland are being advised to check road conditions before setting out, as a new weather system approaches the country. According to the Icelandic Meteorological Office, snow or sleet has already been reported in some northern areas this morning. The conditions can make travel more challenging, particularly on mountain routes. Drivers planning… The post Drivers Warned of Difficult Conditions in North Iceland and Westfjords appeared first on Iceland Review.

A public funeral for former Icelandic prime minister Davíð Oddsson will take place today at Hallgrímskirkja in Reykjavík. As reported by RÚV, the ceremony is open to the public and broadcast nationwide. What’s the Story? Funeral of former Icelandic prime minister Davíð Oddsson held at Hallgrímskirkja in Reykjavík; service begins at 13:00 and broadcast live… The post Funeral Held for Former Prime Minister Davíð Oddsson at Hallgrímskirkja appeared first on Iceland Review.

A government-commissioned report has recommended clarifying and simplifying the statutory role of Iceland’s Marine and Freshwater Research Institute. As reported by RÚV, there is to be a greater emphasis on scientific research and independent advice going forward. What’s the Story? Report by Deloitte for the Ministry of Industry and Trade on the role of the Marine… The post Report Calls for Clearer Role for Marine Research Institute appeared first on Iceland Review.

Foreign doctors seeking work in Iceland’s healthcare system often struggle to secure positions due to insufficient Icelandic language skills, according to a senior physician at Landspítali. Speaking to RÚV about recruitment challenges, pulmonologist and chief physician of specialist basic training Inga Sif Ólafsdóttir said that language proficiency is the primary obstacle preventing qualified overseas doctors… The post Icelandic Language Barrier Limits Job Opportunities for Foreign Doctors ap...

Iceland’s data centre industry is expanding quickly, with rising export revenues and a growing workforce, according to industry figures and recent economic analysis. As reported by RÚV, companies operating large-scale facilities in Iceland include Verne Global, Borealis Data Center, and atNorth, which run sites in locations such as Reykjanesbær, Reykjavík, Akureyri and Blönduós. What’s the… The post Data Centre Industry Rapidly Expands Across Iceland appeared first on Iceland Review.

Iceland’s potential path towards membership of the European Union could follow an unusual route compared with other applicant countries. As reported by RÚV, international political scientist Vilborg Ása Guðjónsdóttir states there is no precedent for Iceland’s route towards membership. What’s the Story? Comments by Vilborg Ása Guðjónsdóttir on Iceland’s possible path towards membership of the… The post Iceland’s Route to EU Membership May Be Unconventional, Says Political Scientist appeared fi...

A boxing event scheduled for April will bring competitive bouts back to one of Iceland’s historic sporting venues. As reported by Fight News, the promotion company Nordic Ring Promotions plans to stage the event at Gamla Bíó (Old Cinema) in Reykjavík on 10 April. What’s the Story? Boxing event at Gamla Bíó in Reykjavík on… The post Historic Boxing Event Planned at Gamla Bíó in Reykjavík appeared first on Iceland Review.

A mix of rain, sleet and snow is forecast across much of Iceland today, as reported by RÚV, with stronger winds developing later in the day. According to the Icelandic Meteorological Office, most areas will experience precipitation, although conditions in the northeast are expected to remain largely dry until evening. Daytime temperatures are forecast to… The post Rain, Sleet and Strong Winds Forecast Across Iceland appeared first on Iceland Review.

The falling share price of Icelandair is prompting fresh warnings about the health of Iceland’s stock market. Meanwhile, economists urge the government to take the issue seriously. As reported by RÚV, shares in the airline are currently at their lowest level on the Iceland Stock Exchange in five years, having dropped by nearly 20% since… The post Low Icelandair Share Price Highlights Risks in Iceland’s Investor Landscape appeared first on Iceland Review.

While Iceland has its own Women’s Day (Konudagur), celebrated around mid-February, the international tradition is never ignored here.  However, there is also a local narrative within the global context. Women’s Day is often associated with the strike that took place across Iceland in October 1975. Publicised as Kvennafrídagurinn, or Women’s Day Off, the event brought… The post Iceland Review Playlist | International Women’s Day appeared first on Iceland Review.

Air travel in Iceland has been disrupted after powerful winds linked to a passing storm forced flight cancellations and delays at Keflavík Airport. As reported by RÚV, three morning departures operated by Icelandair to Amsterdam, Paris and Helsinki were cancelled, while at least ten additional flights were delayed until around midday.  What’s This Story? Storm… The post Strong Winds Disrupt Flights at Keflavík Airport as Storm Hits Iceland appeared first on Iceland Review.

Authorities in Iceland are replacing visitor-counting equipment at some of the country’s most visited natural attractions in an effort to improve monitoring and planning. As reported by RÚV, the initiative is being led by the Icelandic Tourist Board and covers around 40 destinations nationwide. What’s the Story? Replacement of visitor-counting equipment at around 40 tourist destinations… The post Iceland Installing New Counters at Major Tourist Sites appeared first on Iceland Review.

Iceland’s Minister of Health has said a new temporary nursing facility in Urðarhvarf, Kópavogur, could begin receiving patients within two weeks as authorities attempt to relieve pressure on the emergency department at Landspítali. As reported by RÚV, staff at the hospital say the emergency department is currently overcrowded and operating under significant strain. What’s the… The post New Nursing Facility Planned to Ease Pressure at Landspítali Hospital appeared first on Iceland Review.

A deep low-pressure system moving towards Iceland from the southwest is expected to bring strong winds and precipitation to parts of the country later today and overnight. According to forecasts from the Icelandic Meteorological Office, yellow weather warnings have been issued for South Iceland and the Faxaflói Bay area between 00:00 – 03:00 tomorrow. What’s the… The post Yellow Warnings Issued as Storm System Approaches Iceland appeared first on Iceland Review.

Iceland’s Foreign Minister has publicly criticised comments from Icelandic representatives of the Catholic Church regarding same-sex attraction. As reported by RÚV, she stated on social media that the language used risks encouraging harmful attitudes. What’s the Story? Criticism by Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir following remarks by representatives of the Catholic Church about suppressing homosexuality Response posted… The post Foreign Minister Criticises Catholic Church Remarks on Homosexual...

Scientists monitoring volcanic activity on Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula say magma beneath the Svartsengi area is approaching the highest level recorded between eruptions since the current eruption sequence began in late 2023. According to a new hazard assessment from the Icelandic Meteorological Office, magma has been accumulating beneath Svartsengi for around 210 days. If the current… The post Magma Levels Near Peak Beneath Svartsengi appeared first on Iceland Review.

The Icelandic government has adopted its first formal policy aimed at tackling criminal activity in the labour market. As reported by RÚV, the new 13-point action plan is designed to run until 2028 and tackle, among other things, enhanced screenings of residency and work permits, as well as provide greater oversight regarding violations of collective […] The post Government Unveils Labour Market Crime Strategy appeared first on Iceland Review.

Cultural projects set in Iceland’s public swimming pools will be eligible for new funding in 2026. The announcement from Stjórnarráð Íslands follows recognition of the country’s swimming pool culture by UNESCO. What’s the Story? ISK 4 million allocated by the Ministry of Culture, Innovation and Higher Education for swimming pool cultural events in 2026 Maximum […] The post Grants Announced for Cultural Events in Iceland’s Public Pools appeared first on Iceland Review.