Þorláksmessa 23.12.09
On this day Iceland smells with " kæst Skata", this is a tradition that goes all the way back to the days when people used to worship a saint called Þorlákur, back then it was not thought to be appropriate to eat meat on this holy day, therefore people ate fish on this day
In Hraunsnef we offer the traditional "kæst skata" and more variations of fish dishes for a dinner buffed – ice crème is for desert.
Aðfangadagur 24.12.09
This day we celebrate Christmas, it begins with preparations, where the big holiday feast is prepared. At 18:00 the church bells ring in Christmas and people dress up and sit down to enjoy the holiday meal and each other’s company. After dinner it is a ritual for most Icelandic homes to do the dishes and clean up after dinner and then its time to sit down and enjoy some coffee and/or hot chocolate, and open the presents.
In Hraunsnef we offer a Christmas dinner buffed, with turkey, ham, smoked trout and a variation of goods to go with the different types of meat and fish. For desert we have “sherry fromage” with one almond – the one that gets the almond gets the almond present. The one that gets the almond can not tell anyone until all the desert is all gone then everyone will try to guess who got the almond. After dinner the guests will join the family by the Christmas tree get some good coffee or hot chocolate.
Everyone gets a present form under the tree
Jóladagur 25.12.09
This day Icelandic people usually just relax at home, some families’ use this day for a holiday gathering where families get together and talk about the old times. On this day we eat hangikjöt and uppstúf, which is an Icelandic traditional food.
At Hraunsnef we offer a jeep safari in the afternoon the guided safari takes 1,5 – 2 hours. The trip gives the guest a great view of the nature and surroundings. Also a insight in Icelandic culture.
All day we have hot chocolate, coffee, Christmas cakes and cookies on the table for every one to enjoy. Dinner starts at 17:00 with the traditional hangikjöt with uppstúf. Also some turkey, a seafood soup, bread (“flatkökur”&“laufabrauð”) salads and for desert is ice-cream cake with baked berries and chocolate.
A small walk in the nature and a nice relaxing dip in the out door hot tub is ideal on a different Christmas day far away from home!
Annar í jólum 26.12.09
This is another day of relaxation. A good day to take walks around lake Hreðavatn and se the waterfall Glanni in its winter look. Also take a drive to Hraunfossar Deildatunguhver and Reykholt. A hike to the volcano Grábrók is an excellent way of getting fresh air and a gorgeous view.
Like Christmas day we have hot chocolate, coffee, Christmas cakes and cookies on the table for every one to enjoy. Dinner starts at 17:00 with a creamed mudroom soup, glazed salmon with caramelized onion, a pesto lamb and a variety of potatoes and salads. For desert we have chocolate cake with cream.
Brynja, Jóhann & family
Hraunsnef Country hotel