From Reykjavík and east along the Ring Road, National Route 1, Hveragerdi is the first town you come to after crossing Hellisheidi. The town is 40 km (24 mi) from the capital. It is young and intertwined with greenhouse cultivation and the use of hot water for commercial purposes. The population was just under one hundred in 1940 but grew to about 400 by 1946 when the town was formally established. Today, just over 3,300 residents live in Hveragerdi. Greenhouse cultivation began in the town in 1940 and is still one of the main industries, along with ice cream production, with the largest industrial company in the town being Kjörís. Tourism is also an important industry, as are health-related services, with the Icelandic Natural Health Association having operated a large health clinic in Hveragerdi since 1955. Hveragerdi has one of the best and largest swimming pools in the country, located in Laugaskard. The first phase of the pool was opened in 1938, and it was completed in 1945, retaining its title as the largest swimming pool in the country for decades. The town festival, Blómstrandi dagar (Blooming Days), is held annually (from August 15-18 this year); little wonder the nickname “Flower Town” became associated with Hveragerdi about half a century ago.
Hveragerði 06/05/2024 : A7C R, A7R IV – FE 1.4/24mm GM, FE 2.8/100mm GM
Photos & text: Páll Stefánsson
