Today’s quirky travel photo is of Videy Island (Viðey) just a few minutes’ ferry ride from Europe’s most northerly capital city, Reykjavik.

As you sail towards this tiny isle, two small white buildings can be seen.  According to the official website (link above) Viðey Church, on the left,  was con­secra­ted in 1774.  It is one of Iceland´s oldest churches and still has its orig­inal inter­ior fitt­ings. Viðey House was the first build­ing constructed of stone in Iceland and a significant part of Icelandic architectural history.

During a whirlwind visit to Iceland I was lucky enough to have dinner in Videy House to celebrate easyJet’s new route to this intriguing country.  We had a fine evening of tasty local food and listened to some traditional singing and story-telling.  (You can book the Gallery Restaurant for a really special night out.) Its interior is simple with wooden floors, walls, sloping ceiling and beams, and in the basement there’s an interesting historical display. There are basic facilities for day trippers and both horses and bikes can be hired during the summer months.

Also on Viðey Island is the Imagine Peace Tower  designed by Yoko Ono, which lig­hts up the even­ing sky in Reykjavik from October 9th (John Lennon’s birth date) to December 8th (Lennon’s dem­ise). It can easily be seen from the city and surrounding area.