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The Reykjavík Grapevine
Iceland
Приєднався 27 вер 2011
The Reykjavík Grapevine is your essential English-language guide to Icelandic life, covering culture, current affairs, travel and more.
Running Iceland: Thrilling Moments on Mt. Esja
Mt. Esja, is located north of Reykjavík across Kollafjord and dominates the view from the capital. While not particularly tall, standing at just over 900 meters (3000 feet), its proximity to the city makes it a popular destination for hikers.
On a good day, hundreds of people climb to “Steinn”, which is not the summit of the mountain, but a rock sitting at 600 meters above sea level (2000ft). A hiker climbing Esja on one of those good days will run into a diverse group of people doing the same; former and current President of Iceland are sometimes spotted there, so are numerous members of parliament, many artists and musicians and other local celebrities, and surely, you’ll stumble over an influencer or too taking a selfie.
And even on days when the weather is nothing short of terrifying, you’ll still see someone make the climb. But those hikers are usually extremely well acquainted with the mountain.
The reason why most hikers make due with “Steinn” is the fact that the path up to that point is well marked and even if steep in places, within the ability of most hikers. From “Steinn” to the top, things are a little dodgier, and even though the view does get better, the further you accent, it’s still pretty damn good by “Steinn”.
The name "Esjan" is peculiar, and many have suggested a Gaelic origin rather than Norse. This is because Icelandic names for mountains and islands tend to be descriptive, like "Eyjafjallajökull," which means "the glacier on the mountains across from the islands”, while Esja doesn’t really ring a bell to an Icelandic speaker. It simply means that mountain, and nothing else.
The lack of an obvious descriptive meaning for Esjan has led to the Gaelic theory. However, a more recent theory proposes a more mundane explanation. The name may derive from the Scandinavian word for "smithy," where iron tools are made. Perhaps the rocks from Esjan were considered suitable for building smithies, or maybe its flat top resembles an anvil.
Regardless of its etymological origins, Esjan is a mountain that demands respect. Hikers and runners should dress appropriately for the cold weather, even in May or September. Thick jackets, hats, gloves, and multiple layers are essential. Windproof clothing is also crucial, as the weather can turn windy even if it seems pleasant at sea level.
Proper footwear is equally important. Hiking boots with ankle and toe protection are ideal. Trail shoes are suitable for jogging, but spikes are necessary during the winter months to prevent slipping on icy surfaces. An ice ax is also recommended for added safety in case of a fall when the slopes are really icy.
Checking the weather forecast before venturing out is crucial. Strong winds and low visibility are signs that it's best to postpone the hike. Esjan may not be the tallest mountain, but its proximity to Reykjavík belies its potential dangers. Hikers can get lost in blizzards, freeze to death, fall to their deaths, or be caught in an avalanche.
While these risks are remote, they can be easily avoided by coming prepared or choosing an alternative activity when the weather outlook is unfavorable. Additionally, hikers should inform someone of their plans, especially if they intend to hike alone or on a mountain with few other people.
With proper preparation and respect for the elements, hikers can enjoy a safe and rewarding experience on this iconic Icelandic landmark.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CLOTHING & GEAR INFO
The video was sponsored by 66North and these items were visible therein:
66North Straumnes Gore-Tex jacket,
66North Straumnes Gore-Tex pants,
66North Dyngja beanie,
66North Langjökull winter mittens,
66North Straumnes zip-neck inner layer.
All these items are available at the Grapevine Shop: shop.grapevine.is/collections/66running
Also used; trail running traction spikes called "Black Diamond Distance Spike Traction". Sold in Iceland by Fjallakofinn.is
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SHOW SUPPORT
Support the Grapevine's reporting by becoming a member of our High Five Club: steadyhq.com/en/rvkgrapevine/
You can also support the Grapevine by shopping in our online store: shop.grapevine.is
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WHO ARE WE?
The Reykjavík Grapevine is an alternative monthly magazine, bringing you all the news and views on Icelandic society, music, travel, culture and more. Grapevine.is #rvkgrapevine
Join our UA-cam channel for perks on perks: ua-cam.com/channels/XDn1ItTmeGarenRLOZus9Q.htmljoin
On a good day, hundreds of people climb to “Steinn”, which is not the summit of the mountain, but a rock sitting at 600 meters above sea level (2000ft). A hiker climbing Esja on one of those good days will run into a diverse group of people doing the same; former and current President of Iceland are sometimes spotted there, so are numerous members of parliament, many artists and musicians and other local celebrities, and surely, you’ll stumble over an influencer or too taking a selfie.
And even on days when the weather is nothing short of terrifying, you’ll still see someone make the climb. But those hikers are usually extremely well acquainted with the mountain.
The reason why most hikers make due with “Steinn” is the fact that the path up to that point is well marked and even if steep in places, within the ability of most hikers. From “Steinn” to the top, things are a little dodgier, and even though the view does get better, the further you accent, it’s still pretty damn good by “Steinn”.
The name "Esjan" is peculiar, and many have suggested a Gaelic origin rather than Norse. This is because Icelandic names for mountains and islands tend to be descriptive, like "Eyjafjallajökull," which means "the glacier on the mountains across from the islands”, while Esja doesn’t really ring a bell to an Icelandic speaker. It simply means that mountain, and nothing else.
The lack of an obvious descriptive meaning for Esjan has led to the Gaelic theory. However, a more recent theory proposes a more mundane explanation. The name may derive from the Scandinavian word for "smithy," where iron tools are made. Perhaps the rocks from Esjan were considered suitable for building smithies, or maybe its flat top resembles an anvil.
Regardless of its etymological origins, Esjan is a mountain that demands respect. Hikers and runners should dress appropriately for the cold weather, even in May or September. Thick jackets, hats, gloves, and multiple layers are essential. Windproof clothing is also crucial, as the weather can turn windy even if it seems pleasant at sea level.
Proper footwear is equally important. Hiking boots with ankle and toe protection are ideal. Trail shoes are suitable for jogging, but spikes are necessary during the winter months to prevent slipping on icy surfaces. An ice ax is also recommended for added safety in case of a fall when the slopes are really icy.
Checking the weather forecast before venturing out is crucial. Strong winds and low visibility are signs that it's best to postpone the hike. Esjan may not be the tallest mountain, but its proximity to Reykjavík belies its potential dangers. Hikers can get lost in blizzards, freeze to death, fall to their deaths, or be caught in an avalanche.
While these risks are remote, they can be easily avoided by coming prepared or choosing an alternative activity when the weather outlook is unfavorable. Additionally, hikers should inform someone of their plans, especially if they intend to hike alone or on a mountain with few other people.
With proper preparation and respect for the elements, hikers can enjoy a safe and rewarding experience on this iconic Icelandic landmark.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CLOTHING & GEAR INFO
The video was sponsored by 66North and these items were visible therein:
66North Straumnes Gore-Tex jacket,
66North Straumnes Gore-Tex pants,
66North Dyngja beanie,
66North Langjökull winter mittens,
66North Straumnes zip-neck inner layer.
All these items are available at the Grapevine Shop: shop.grapevine.is/collections/66running
Also used; trail running traction spikes called "Black Diamond Distance Spike Traction". Sold in Iceland by Fjallakofinn.is
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SHOW SUPPORT
Support the Grapevine's reporting by becoming a member of our High Five Club: steadyhq.com/en/rvkgrapevine/
You can also support the Grapevine by shopping in our online store: shop.grapevine.is
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WHO ARE WE?
The Reykjavík Grapevine is an alternative monthly magazine, bringing you all the news and views on Icelandic society, music, travel, culture and more. Grapevine.is #rvkgrapevine
Join our UA-cam channel for perks on perks: ua-cam.com/channels/XDn1ItTmeGarenRLOZus9Q.htmljoin
Переглядів: 2 435
Відео
Volcano Watch 2024: Four Eruptions In Four Months
Переглядів 248 тис.2 місяці тому
A new eruption began on the Reykjanes peninsula March 16 at 20:23. A three km long fissure began erupting between Hagafell and Stóra Skógfell. The eruption was preceded by a brief period of seismic activity in the area. Two lava flows originated from the fissure, one running westward to the north of the Blue Lagoon and Svartsengi Power Plant, and the other running southward toward Suðurstrandsv...
Volcano Watch 2024: Another Eruption, Lava Damages Road to The Blue Lagoon, Cuts Water Supply
Переглядів 48 тис.3 місяці тому
A new eruption began on the Reykjanes Peninsula around 6:00 on February 8. The eruption marked the sixth volcanic eruption in three years on the peninsula and the third eruption since December 18th. The fissure that opened up streched from Sundhnúkur in the south to the eastern tip of Stóra-Skógafell, almost exactly where the December 18th eruption took place. Grindavík remains fully evacuated....
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Переглядів 31 тис.3 місяці тому
The 3,700 residents of Grindavík, situated on the southern coast of the Reykjanes peninsula, have been unable to return home since their evacuation on November 10, 2023. Following two recent eruptions in the area (the last one on January 14) the Reykjavík Grapevine’s Jón Trausti Sigurðarson met up with volcanologist Þorvaldur Þórðarson on January 19 for an update on the situation. How different...
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Переглядів 321 тис.4 місяці тому
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Переглядів 394 тис.4 місяці тому
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Переглядів 139 тис.4 місяці тому
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Переглядів 752 тис.5 місяців тому
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Переглядів 29 тис.5 місяців тому
The Reykjavík Grapevine's resident running enthusiast Jón Trausti Sigurðarson takes you on a run up Mount Þorbjörn - he even did it twice for videographer Art Bicnick to get the right shots. NOTE: Jón and Art visited Mount Þorbjörn before the Blue Lagoon was closed, and before Civil Protection Authirities declared an emergency in the area and evacuated the town of Grindavík on November 10, 2023...
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Переглядів 129 тис.5 місяців тому
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Переглядів 219 тис.6 місяців тому
The 3,700 residents of Grindavík - a town on the south coast of the Reykjanes peninsula -were ordered to evacuate on November 10, 2023, as an intense earthquake swarm accompanied the formation of a lava dyke stretching beneath the town. Grapevine publisher Jón Trausti Sigurðarson's parents are among the evacuees. He and Grapevine videographer Art Bicnick accompanied Jón's parents, Laufey Jónsdó...
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Переглядів 149 тис.6 місяців тому
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Переглядів 263 тис.6 місяців тому
On the night of November 10, the Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management announced the mandatory evacuation of the town of Grindavík due to a possible magma intrusion beneath the town. Approximately 3,700 residents left the town within two to three hours, with many staying with friends and relatives in other parts of the country, while some finding shelter at emergency aid shelt...
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Переглядів 513 тис.6 місяців тому
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Переглядів 87 тис.10 місяців тому
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Переглядів 37 тис.Рік тому
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Переглядів 10 тис.Рік тому
RVK Newscast 224: Icelanders Are Fewer Than We Thought
Cade a poha da legenda
👍
Well I might be voice acting soon so I need this to play an 11 year old boy with a danish accent
Nothing to laugh about... it's a desaster... nothing to laugh about.
Awesome. I was thinking of starting a cod dried product in South Africa, but I will have to begin without machinez and a factory and without funds. Your process is perfect. I make chicken biltong which is a spiced dried chicken product.
Don't ruin it for everyone else because 0.00001 percent of people are stupid. Please. We are going stupid fast. Stop the insanity!😊
Have you apologized yet for promoting the vax?
Joch gace beufull future going
looks very tasty, i'll have to see if I can order it online.
Thank you for the info 👍
Great Sagas, I was wondering if the "evil eye" comes from this story, @15:18
Good you climbed to the top of the island, as I am way too fearful of heights.
4:10 "Ah F it, I'll go there".... 🏔️👌😉
Thanks Jon and Art. The view from the top is amazing. When does the snow at the top finally disappear? Or can it snow any time during the summer? Valur did a video from somewhere in that area, as I recall. There was no snow at that time though.
That brand is not very strong, just 37,5 vol-% of alcohol. Strongest brands I found available is 47%. I think those are closer to the original "fire water".
Yes in Reykjavik think May 20 2025. This now on 1st day must right after lunch
I was wondering why you don't do these videos in the summer then I realised that it probably was the summer!
I nominate you to be on the Netflix show 'BLOWN AWAY' Season 5!!!😉
A great video to look back at
SPACE 0N EARTH = 2024 - V0yagers Life _ NAME : Le0niL Uba _ philippines Mindana0 Camigiun P0blacion Catarman Punta pur0k - 2 H0me Tabing Dagat _ Camiguin = V0Lcan0 = Thress MariaS _ Kuryente = V101 Science _ Radar Help. Camiguin.
love this girl so much. met of monsters and men in 2013 really changed my life
Nice sneaker skiing there! 😁 Hope you got your crampons back. That was so cool that you loaned them to the guy who had come so far and really wanted to make the top.
How are you going to find out were it come from with the old laver on the bottom and some new mixing with the old
Two problems here: 1. I am scared of heights and 2. I am claustrophobic.
Intro gives me chills. Watched all and am re-watching. Please, more!!❤
It's absolutely beautiful
Great video! How long did it take you to get to the top?
Just under an hour if my memory serves me right. But I was not in a hurry
Did someone actually take their child to the edge of the lava flow?? On day 1 or 2?? MADNESS!!
More of the same please, love the views.
Thanks for both the stories and context, and the wonderful captions. Much appreciated.
I miss Valur and Polly and Art. What a team.
We would never risk their lives for stunts like these.
I hope your mom never sees this video! Bad enough they’ve lost their home in Grindevik they don’t want to lose you too! You couldn’t go back the way you came??
She has four more kids, so she’ll be fine. Or that’s what I tell myself…. But the way I came up was no better I’m afraid.
How much weight can the drone carry to you if you need, say, an aluminum walking stick, for example?
Good question. I’ll ask if it can bring me beer.
That descent was madness. :)
It looks worse than it is
Marvellous. The authorities, whoever they are here, really need to erect marker poles along the proper path through the snow to prevent people from having to find their own way down, which might not end happily. I went a little way up here in 2008, but had to return before the last bus so did not make it to the top. Thanks for that and I hope you got your crampons back.
You are welcome! And I can happily report that the very pleasant American who borrowed the crampons returned them after having made it to the top and back without incident.
😅
Great !!! Thnx 😅
Well that was entertaining. Art the enabler for sure….anything for a great video 😂😂. Thank you Jon I did enjoy that and kudos to you for sharing your crampons.
Yeah. I have to ask my insurance company talk to Art about what he makes me do on camera.
Haha, you're crazy. But it looked like a fun challenge.
Imagine if Valur and Polli were at the top waiting for you lmao As a Blacksmith who has worked in Iceland and In Sweden and Germany numerous times I can assume Esja might be the Norse variant for Essa which means forge(where the fire is for forging) in German, but in Germanic language the word can be used contextually to refer to a place where the forge is or the forge work. On the other side about an hour or so is the Surthellir caves no?
We needed a f**k counter in the video 😂
Do it! 😂
We tried but we f***ing lost count and then gave up on it
@@jontrausti2 ah f*ck 🤣
@@jontrausti2 ah f*ck
@@jontrausti2 ah f**k
Entertaining to say tge least! You survived! 😂
Lol, your belligerence is wonderful. Though Art played it smart, lol. Yes you needed crampons.
Fabulous video of this volcano. Thank you for sharing it.
This is my new destination addition. The power of nature is incredible. God is good.
Cool comments, it gave me new insights as to what went on at the Althing..
everyone treats the beat as a novelity , now, you will see!!!
Iceland is better without alcohol.
It won’t help to close the beach or had anything extra, the same people who didn’t obey the signs will go around a fence and still make the wrong choices unfortunately.
We are gonna be there next month. Can anyone recommend a good guide ? Also, will Iceland pay extra fees for all the greenhouse gas they produce? 🤪🤪 JK. BTW, what type of igneous rock is being expelled here?