History comes to life at Árnessýsla Heritage Museum’s diverse exhibitions in Eyrarbakki, Southwest Iceland.  The Museum is made up of different historical houses which tell the story of Eyrarbakki’s inhabitants. Eyrarbakki is on the edge of the Golden Circle.

Húsið, or “The House,” earned this simple title because when it was constructed in 1765, it towered above the surrounding huts and turf houses. It was the merchants’ home for almost 200 years and served as the country’s leading cultural centre until the 20th century. Húsið provides an insight into the Icelandic upper class; the interior used by the last residents has been preserved to this date. In addition to the permanent exhibition, varied temporary exhibitions and events are held at Húsið.

Following houses are also part of the museum: the Assistant´s house the Egg House, Kirkjubær and Eyrarbakki Maritime Museum.  They highlight the stories of the people who lived and worked there: Farmhands, fishermen, construction workers and people of different social classes. The exhibitions tell humorous and heartbreaking stories and shed light on the residents’ hobbies, handiwork and toys; life itself in all of its forms.

Families can participate in a fun orienteering game and solve puzzles connected with the museum’s artefacts.

Ten ideas for recreation on and near the Golden Circle:

1. Have delicious Icelandic lobster (or langoustine) for lunch or dinner in one of the area coastal towns, like Stokkseyri or Eyrarbakki.
2. Go on a kayak tour on narrow canals near Stokkseyri. In winter you can kayak after dark and witness the northern lights!
3. Try thrilling ATV tours on the black sand beaches of the South Coast.
4. From thrills to chills, get spooked at the Ghost Centre in Stokkseyri.
5. At Sólvangur – Icelandic Horse Centre near Eyrarbakki you can learn all about the Icelandic horse’s qualities, visit the stable and go on riding tours there or with Eldhestar near Hveragerði.
6. The Golden Circle is famous for a reason: Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall and Geysir Hot Spring Area are a must-see.
7. Don’t miss the new Selfoss Centre (rebuilding of many old houses in Iceland).
8. Get wet! Apart from the county’s many swimming pools, it includes dive site Silfra in Þingvellir Laugarvatn Fontana Spa, the Secret Lagoon in Flúðir, the hot river in Reykjadalur valley and the natural pool Hrunalaug.
9. Visit a greenhouse! Learn about the eco-village Sólheimar, the production of tomatoes at Friðheimar, mushrooms at Flúðir and taste their curious culinary creations.
10. Imagine what it was like living in a cave! At Laugarvatnshellar you can take a guided tour of manmade caves where an average Icelandic family lived in the last century (The Cave People).

For more ideas and inspirations, go to www.south.is