Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
WOOLLY JUMPERS: LOPAPEYSUR
Lopapeysurare the ubiquitous Icelandic woolly jumpers you will see worn by locals and
visitors alike. Made from naturally water-repellant Icelandic wool, they are thick and cosy,
with simple geometric patterns or regional motifs. They are no longer the bargain they
were in the '60s, so when shopping, be sure to make the distinction: do you want hand-
knit or machine made? You'll notice the price difference (some cost well over €200), but
either way these beautiful but practical items (and their associated hats, gloves and
scarves) are exceptionally wearable souvenirs.
Handknitting Association of Iceland
CLOTHING
552 1890;
www.handknit.is
;
Skólavörðustígur
19; 9am-9pm Mon-Fri, to 6pm Sat, 10am-6pm Sun)
Traditional handmade hats, socks and sweaters are sold at this knitting collective, or you
can buy yarn, needles and knitting patterns and do it yourself. The association's smaller
562 1890;Laugavegur 53b;
9am-7pm Mon-Fri. 10am-5pm Sat)
sells made-up items only.
Álafoss
CLOTHING
Loads of hand- or machine-made lopapeysurand other wool products. Their
outlet store
( 566 6303;
www.alafoss.is
;Álafossvegur 23, Mosfellsbær;
9am-6pm Mon-Fri, to 4pm Sat) in
Mosfellsbær also sells yarn and needles.
Shopping
Reykjavík's vibrant design culture makes for great shopping: from sleek, fish-skin purses
and knitted
lopapeysur
(Icelandic woollen sweaters) to unique music or lip-smacking
Icelandic schnapps
brennivín.
Laugavegur is the most dense shopping street. You'll find in-
teresting shops all over town, but fashion concentrates near the Frakkastígur and Vitastígur
end of Laugavegur. Skólavörðustígur is strong for arts and jewellery. Bankastræti and Aus-
turstræti have many touristy shops.
Don't forget - all visitors are eligible for a 15% tax refund on their shopping, under cer-
tain conditions (
Click here
).
