The Spirit of Easter in Iceland
Easter (or Páska, pronounced “pow-ska”) in Iceland isn’t just another long weekend; it’s a celebration woven with centuries-old traditions, a love for nature, and yes—copious amounts of chocolate.
What sets it apart is how Icelanders blend the sacred and the silly, where serene church services live side by side with massive chocolate eggs filled with riddles and sweets.
Add in a hint of springtime thaw and the lingering dance of the Northern Lights, and you’ve got something truly special.
The Role of Religion and Community
While Iceland may be known for its pagan past and sagas filled with trolls and volcanoes, the Easter holiday today carries deep Christian roots.
Though Iceland is not a massively religious country, some Icelanders are part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, and you’ll still find many observing Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday with traditional services.
Churches fill with candlelight and song, but once the service ends, it’s all about being with family, feasting, and soaking in Iceland’s natural beauty.
How Icelandic Nature Shapes the Celebration
The arrival of Easter also marks a shift in the seasons.
The snow begins to melt, rivers start to swell, and the countryside slowly trades in its frosty white coat for muted greens, and dare I say it – daylight hours.
With longer daylight hours, it’s the perfect time to get outdoors.
Whether it’s a hot spring soak or a scenic drive, Icelanders embrace the Easter holiday as a chance to reconnect with nature, with loved ones, and often with great family fun during an egg hunt.
For those with little ones, it’s also part of the fun to set elaborate treasure hunts for the precious (said in a Gollum accent) chocolate eggs.
A Brief History of Easter in Iceland
From Pagan Roots to Christian Influence
Before Christianity made its way to Iceland around the year 1000 AD, the Norse settlers marked spring with their own rituals -celebrating fertility, renewal, and light returning to the world.
With the arrival of Christianity, these seasonal festivals were adapted and absorbed into Easter traditions.
Today, Easter in Iceland is a fusion of old and new, sacred and playful.
Key Dates and Public Holidays in the Icelandic Easter Calendar
The Icelandic Easter holiday typically spans five days, from Maundy Thursday to Easter Monday.
During this time, schools, banks, and many shops close their doors.
It’s a time for slow mornings, nature trips, and big family dinners.
Good Friday is especially solemn, with strict regulations in place – even public dancing and live music were even banned until quite recently.
Evolution of Modern Traditions
In recent decades, Iceland has added its own flavour to the Easter mix.
While the religious observance remains for many, it’s the family traditions, the chocolate eggs with riddles, and the freedom to travel that have come to define the holiday.
The result? A season that’s equal parts reflective and fun.
Icelandic Easter Traditions and Customs
Chocolate Eggs and the Art of the Riddle (Páskaegg)
One of the most beloved traditions is the gifting of páskegg – elaborate chocolate eggs filled with assorted sweets and, most importantly, a riddle tucked inside.
These riddles range from old Icelandic proverbs to playful one-liners that make you stop, think, and then laugh (or groan).
If you want to buy one for yourself or your loved ones on your visit, most options can be found at the local supermarket chains, such as Bónus or Kronan.
It’s not just about eating the chocolate (though that part is pretty important too). It’s about gathering together, cracking open your egg, and sharing a moment of joy and head-scratching with those around you.
I must admit, as a Brit, the chocolate is not 100% to my pallet, but the locals will defend the local varieties such as Nói Sirius to the hills and beyond.
Traditional Easter Foods and Festive Meals
If you like lamb, you’re in luck. Roasted Icelandic lamb is the crown jewel of the Easter table, typically served with caramelised potatoes, green beans, and creamy gravy.
Other classics include plokkfiskur (a comforting fish stew), rye bread steamed in geothermal heat, and rich chocolate cakes like páskakaka.
At The Hill Hotel, you can expect an array of seasonal dishes and more, especially during the Easter grill where local meat-based dishes take centre stage.
It’s hearty, rustic fare that warms both the body and the soul.
The Sacred Silence of Maundy Thursday and Good Friday
While Icelanders love a good celebration, they also honour the more sacred elements of Easter.
Maundy Thursday and Good Friday are observed with a sense of quiet respect.
Historically, public entertainment was restricted, and although those laws have relaxed, many still use these days for reflection, family time, and escaping into nature.
Fun and Family: How Icelanders Celebrate Today
Popular Activities During the Long Weekend
For most locals, the Easter break is a golden opportunity to hit the road.
Whether it’s driving the Golden Circle, hiking in Þingvellir, or heading to a cabin (known as a Summer House) in the countryside, Icelanders make the most of their time off by getting out into nature.
Hot springs, ski trips, and even just a scenic drive with a packed lunch are all fair game.
How Schools and Towns Join in the Fun
Schools often organise Easter-themed art projects and riddles before the holiday, and towns across the country get involved too.
Local events might include community egg hunts, bonfires, or family-friendly concerts (well, outside the more solemn days).
It’s a community affair, with everyone leaning into the season of renewal and fun.
Easter for Kids: Games, Stories, and Treats
Easter is pure joy for children in Iceland.
Aside from the excitement of cracking open their massive chocolate egg, kids also get involved in baking, crafting, and storytelling.
There are tales of mischievous creatures and seasonal magic passed down through generations, making it a magical time to be a child in the land of fire and ice.
Celebrate Easter at the Hill Hotel in Flúðir
A Cozy and Scenic Stay in the Heart of Iceland’s South
Nestled in the charming village of Flúðir, The Hill Hotel offers a warm, inviting escape surrounded by natural beauty.
With easy access to the Golden Circle and a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere, it’s the kind of place where you can recharge between adventures and enjoy some good old-fashioned Icelandic hospitality.
Easter BBQ and Festivities for All Ages
During the Easter weekend, the hotel often hosts a traditional Icelandic grill.
Expect local lamb sizzling on the grill, seasonal vegetables, and an atmosphere that feels like one big family picnic.
It’s a true celebration of spring, where guests can mingle, laugh, and feast in the fresh Icelandic air. It’s also never too early to sample a local beer or try the bar’s fantastic Aperol Spritz (just saying!)
Family-Friendly Easter Egg Hunt and Outdoor Fun
The highlight for many families is the Easter egg hunt held right on the hotel grounds.
With chocolate treats hidden in mossy nooks and under birch trees, it’s a playful, memory-making activity that brings guests together.
And if the kids get a little too competitive? All part of the fun.
Why Hill Hotel is the Perfect Base for Your Spring Adventure
With its scenic location, welcoming staff, and range of activities, The Hill Hotel offers the perfect home base for exploring South Iceland during Easter.
And don’t forget – guests enjoy an exclusive 20% discount at the nearby Secret Lagoon, where you can soak away the day under open skies.
Unforgettable Easter Adventures: Make the Most of Springtime in Iceland
Catch the Last Glimmers of the Northern Lights
Easter often marks the final weeks of aurora season.
With clear spring nights and low light pollution, Flúðir is an ideal place to spot the Northern Lights.
Wrap yourself in a blanket, grab a hot drink, and look up – you might just catch the sky’s most famous light show if the skies are playing ball.
Soak in Natural Hot Springs Under the Crisp Spring Sky
From the Secret Lagoon to hidden geothermal pools scattered across the countryside, hot springs are the perfect way to relax after a day of exploring.
The contrast of warm water and cool air is the kind of thing you’ll want to write home about. Or just post about endlessly.
Glacier Hikes and Ice Caves Before the Melt Begins
Spring is your last chance to explore Iceland’s ice caves and glaciers before the thaw sets in.
With guided tours available, you can strap on some crampons and walk atop ancient ice that creaks and sparkles with every step.
It’s a once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience.
Horseback Riding Through Blooming Valleys and Lava Fields
Icelandic horses are small, sturdy, and incredibly charming.
A springtime ride through the valleys and lava fields around Flúðir is a peaceful, scenic way to take in the landscape and get to know these famously friendly four-legged locals.
Explore the Golden Circle with Fewer Crowds
The Golden Circle is a must-see, and Easter is a brilliant time to visit.
With fewer tourists than in summer, you can enjoy the geysers, waterfalls, and historic sites at your own pace. Plus, the spring light makes everything feel extra magical.
Seasonal Wildlife Watching: Seals, Birds, and Early Puffins
Spring marks the return of some of Iceland’s beloved wildlife.
Keep your eyes peeled for seals lounging on coastal rocks, birds nesting along cliffs, and even the first puffins making their way back to land. Bring your binoculars and your patience.
Easter Snowmobiling and Super Jeep Tours for a Thrill
If you’re craving adrenaline, hop on a snowmobile and tear across a glacier, or jump in a Super Jeep and go off-road to places tour buses can’t reach.
Easter is often the best time for snowmobiling, with better weather, and the last chance to catch a glimpse of a wider wintry wonderland below from these incredible heights.
Exploring South Iceland Over Easter Weekend
Top Attractions Near Flúðir (Golden Circle, Secret Lagoon, etc.)
From the mighty Gullfoss to the soothing waters of the Secret Lagoon, South Iceland is packed with iconic sites.
Staying at The Hill Hotel puts you within easy reach of them all. Þingvellir, Geysir, and countless hidden gems await your discovery.
Best Spring Hikes and Scenic Drives
As snow recedes, trails open up. Spring hikes around Flúðir and the wider south region offer stunning views of waterfalls, volcanic rock, and budding greenery.
Whether on foot or by car, the routes around here are prime for exploration.
Where to Spot Icelandic Wildlife in Early Spring
Iceland’s wildlife starts to stir in spring.
Head toward the coast for seal sightings or visit bird cliffs to witness the chaos and charm of nesting season.
Inland, you might catch glimpses of Arctic foxes or even reindeer in remote areas – Arctic Foxes are usually only seen up in the Hornstrandir region of the Westfjords, but the further East you go in Iceland the greater your chance of spotting Reindeer.
Tips for Visiting Iceland During Easter
What’s Open and Closed Over the Holidays
Be aware that some shops, restaurants, and attractions may close for Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday.
It’s always good to check ahead, stock up on snacks, and plan your itinerary accordingly.
Weather Expectations and Packing Essentials
Spring weather in Iceland is famously unpredictable. One minute it’s sunny, the next you’re in a snow squall.
Pack layers, waterproofs, sturdy shoes, and your swimsuit (you’ll thank us at the hot spring).
Booking Accommodation and Tours in Advance
Easter is a popular time for both locals and visitors to get away.
Book your hotel, tours, and car rentals well in advance to avoid disappointment.
The Hill Hotel, in particular, is a sought-after spot during the season.
Final Thoughts on Easter in Iceland
A Time to Slow Down and Connect with Icelandic Culture
Easter in Iceland offers a rare blend of introspection and adventure.
It’s a time to slow down, appreciate the landscape, and share meaningful moments with friends and family.
The mix of old traditions and springtime beauty creates something truly unforgettable.
Creating Lasting Memories With Family and Friends
Whether you’re hunting for eggs, soaking in a hot spring, or watching the sky erupt in colour, Iceland at Easter delivers moments that linger. And with The Hill Hotel as your home base, those memories come with a side of comfort, warmth, and maybe even a chocolate riddle or two.