Dear Readers,
Stracta Apartments Hotel Orustustaðir, a member of the Stracta Hotel brand in Iceland, extends wishes of peace and joy for the year 2026.
Our property offers 28 self-catering accommodations located on Orustustaðir farm in southeastern Iceland. The main local landmark is Orustuhóll (Battle Hill), celebrated for its distinctive form and the rich legends concerning Iceland’s hidden people, including tales of mysterious figures believed to inhabit its slopes.
The thirteenth day of Christmas, January 6th, marks the conclusion of the Christmas season in Iceland and holds both Christian and folk significance. According to folklore, it is among the nights when supernatural beings, such as elves and the hidden people, are thought to be especially active, featuring in stories about talking animals and magical occurrences. Traditionally, Epiphany is observed with bonfires, where communities come together to celebrate the season’s end, participating in singing, dancing, and the last fireworks of the holiday period. Folktales often describe appearances by elves, trolls, and other fantastical creatures at these gatherings, as well as visits from the elf king and queen, who are said to join the festivities not as a religious observance but as part of Icelandic legend.
While Epiphany today is largely seen as a moment to conclude Christmas celebrations with family and friends, these enduring beliefs about elves and hidden people remain woven into Iceland’s cultural heritage. Such folklore continues to influence the national consciousness and is frequently connected to Iceland’s natural landscape and seasonal traditions.
On January 6th, Icelanders customarily remove their Christmas decorations, though many retain their lights to counter the lingering winter darkness — a welcome ritual as daylight gradually increases.
We wish you happiness, prosperity, and peace in the coming year, along with the hope that you discover new and enchanting stories within our unique Icelandic culture.
New year’s wishes,
The Stracta Apartments Orustustaðir team