The Elfschool of Álfaskólinn

There are 13 types of elves in Iceland, four kinds of gnomes, three varieties of hidden people and fairies, and two types of trolls. But there is only one place to learn about them all: Álfaskólinn, The Elfschool.

According to the Elfschool, 54 percent of Icelanders believe elves are among us. They will divert road around boulders thought to contain their homes. They will tell you the common sulphur smell present in Iceland is from the elves’ dirty bath water. Most people won’t exactly confirm elves exist, but they won’t deny it either.

The Elfschool has been educating visitors about elf-lore for 26 years. The classes include lectures about how to identify the creatures and their habitat and what they think about humans. Students also learn about the hundreds of first-hand accounts of elf sightings and experiences, including living and dining with elves and the elves that have saved lives. Students will receive an illustrated textbook to study.

Students are welcome to refreshments during their study and after a long day of theory, they get to put what they have learned into practice during a visit to one of Iceland’s most important centers of elf activity.

Finally, each student is presented with a diploma to show they completed Elfschool, and are well-versed in the ways of the hidden folk.

The cost for the school is about $50 and half price for students under 10. The cost includes snacks and the textbook. Elfschool is located in Reykjavik. Visitors may wish to visit the Elf Garden after their education, a park dedicated to the supernatural creatures in the middle of the city.