Iceland Cruise Guide. Enjoy your Cruise to Iceland!

Icelanders have always known that their country is beautiful, special and unique, and this fact is becoming more and more known throughout the world. The number of visitors to Iceland is steadily increasing. In 2012, 246 cruise ships docked in Iceland, which has thirteen harbours to accommodate these all around the country, each of which have very interesting cities and areas to explore.; small review.

The Westman Islands are an archipelago of about 15 islands and islets, situated in the south of Iceland. The largest island is Heimaey which is 13.4 km2 and is also the only inhabited one, with more than 4,000 inhabitants. There are a few museums you can visit , such as the popular Sagnheimar Culture Museum or the Natural History Museum. You can also climb up the volcano Eldfell, where you can still feel the heat from the eruption in 1973. Join a bus tour of the island or stay in the main town and enjoy the cafes, restaurants, shops or many art galleries the island has to offer.

Hafnarfjordur, a suburb of Reykjavik, is a small town that was built on the lava field that has elapsed from Mount Burfell, more than 7,000 years ago. The center has a small lake and picturesque views.

Reykjavik, Iceland's capital, is a charming town that has all the qualities of a capital without the crowds and noise that come with it. There are many shops, cafés, restaurants and museums located in the city center, and we also recommend you to visit one of the swimming pools, for a real Icelandic experience!

North of the Snaefellsnes peninsula, Grundarfjörður is perfectly located for visiting the region. This small fishing village is known as the home of the mountain Kirkjufell. A trip around the peninsula is probably the best option,if you have a few hours; you can admire waterfalls glaciers, volcanoes, beaches and possibly even puffins and seals.

Isafjörður is the capital of the westfjords, and has nearly 2600 inhabitants. It is a charming town, with shops, cafes, restaurants and hotels. The old town is made up of many wooden houses dating from the nineteenth century and it is lovely to walk down the main street. If you like history or fishing, the Maritime Museum is an interesting visit; also opt for the old hospital that was turned into a cultural center and offers various exhibitions during the year. The area also has many opportunities for walking and hiking.

The charming village of Siglufjörður in Tröllaskagi Peninsula, is a popular destination in summer. The population of 1200 inhabitants, living mainly from fishing and the growing tourism industry. The museum of traditional Icelandic music and the herring Museum are not to be missed!

Grimsey is a small Icelandic island of about 5 km2 which is situated 41 kilometers north of Iceland. The island is a popular tourist destination, with many travellers coming here solely because it is situated on the Arctic Circle. On the island there is a grocery store, a campsite and a few guesthouses, cafés, galleries and, of course, a swimming pool!

In Akureyri, the second largest city of Iceland, visit the small town center, Listagilið, the arts district of Akureyri, Akureyri Church, and then try the botanical garden, listagarðurinn, where you can admire hundreds of plants and flowers. A dip in the delightful swimming pool is required.

Húsavík is a small town of 2500 inhabitants located in the north of Iceland, best known as the European capital of whale watching. It is possible to see these huge mammals from May to October, approximately. Around Húsavík, there are many amazing places to visit: Myvatn Ásbyrgi, Dettifoss to name a few.

Founded by Norwegian fishermen, the small town of Seyðisfjörður now has 700 inhabitants and lives mainly from fishing and tourism. It is also known for its charming wooden houses, Seyðisfjörður is especially popular for its artistic activity. The visual arts center, Skaftfell, offers year-round exhibitions, discussions and performances, and many events are held here in the summer.

Eskifjörður is a small town of 1100 inhabitants in East Iceland, which gets its name from a fjord surrounded by the mountains Eskja and Hólmatindur. The village is known to house a rare collection of pebbles and larger rocks of Iceland. You can also visit Randulfssjóhús to learn more about fishing, the old mine Helgustaðanáma or inquire at the tourist office to hike in the area.

Djúpivogur is a small village in eastern Iceland, which has 250 inhabitants. It is a good base for exploring the fjords of the east. We advise you to go by boat to the island of Papey, where you will see hundreds of puffins and seals.

Hofn is a small town of 1600 inhabitants located in the south of Iceland, near the famous glacial lagoon Jökulsárlón and Vatnajökull National Park where many hiking opportunities await you.

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Free activities in Akureyri

We’ve already compiled a small list of free leisure activities in the Icelandic capital, Reykjavík and so here's the rest of the series with a list of things to do without spending a penny in the second largest city in Iceland, Akureyri!

Visit Listagilið, the art district of Akureyri where you'll find the centre of visual arts, Ketilhúsið, and the Akureyri Art Museum, (Listasafnið á Akureyri). These two art institutes open their doors to the public and offer art exhibitions from local and international artists -  outside high season (July-August), they open from 12 noon - 17:00. There are also occasional events (exhibitions, art sales, flea markets) in Deiglan, facing the center of the visual arts. In the basement of the Akureyri Art Museum, the group of artists involved in the workshop Kaktus, often open their door for exhibitions, concerts, and various events. While there you'll find a collection of reading comics accessible to the public, comfortably installed in one of their sofas. The cultural centre and conference hall Hof (known for its architecture) and Eymundsson library also exhibit work from local artists.

The city library of Akureyri, Amtsbókasafnið á Akureyri, is well stocked with newspapers, magazines and books on the region and Iceland in general. If you travel from September to May with young children, and you wish to indulge in the Icelandic language, there are a story and activity every Thursday at 16:15 for children, in the children's corner of the library.

Every Saturday from September to June of every year, the sea captain of the fishing boat Huni II, invites the public to have coffee on board, between 10:00 until 12 noon. It’s a wonderful opportunity to sit chatting with your friends over a coffee, on a historical fishing boat, with an interior that plunges you straight into the world of the Icelandic fisherman - it’s worth the experience.

After visiting the Church of Akureyri, we recommend you visit the botanical garden, listagarðurinn, where you can admire hundreds of plants and flowers. Also, on the outside of the woods Kjarnaskógur, you'll find an ideal place for picnics and barbecues and a walking area. In the winter time, you will find a cross-country track if you wish to go for a run. The ski resort Hlíðarfjall has a free toboggan run, which will delight the young ones.

Throughout the year, there are many free events around the Akureyri city; check out the calendar online!

Joanne, Iceland24h.blogspot.com

Popular waterfalls in the north of Iceland

Goðafoss (the waterfall of the Gods), 12 meters high and 30 meters wide, is located on the number 1 route between Akureyri and Myvatn, on the Skjálfandafljót glacier river. This magnificent waterfall is connected to an important event in Icelandic history; that is, in the year 1000, when the Icelandic parliament rejected Paganism in favour of Christianity as the official religion, Þorgeir Þorkellsson (the law speaker of the Icelandic parliament) threw statues of Pagan gods into the Goðafoss waterfall to symbolise the conversion.

Aldeyjarfoss is based in the Barðardal valley at the start of the Sprengisandur road. At this spectacular waterfall you’ll see a contrast between the white gushing water from the Skjálfandafjót glacier river and the dark basalt stone columns surrounding its 20-meter drop. This is definitely a sight to have your camera ready for!

Ullarfoss is situated in a river that runs across the Bárðardal valley,  joining the Sudura valley and then continues to flow into the Skjálfandafljót glacier river.

Hrafnabjargafoss like the three previous waterfalls emerges from several canyons on the Skjálfandafljót glacier river. Hrafnabjargafoss possesses an incomparable beauty, especially in winter time, and yet, not many travelers know it exists. Once stumbled upon, it captivates both amateur and professional photographers alike. If you decide to explore the surrounding area a little, you will discover many other waterfalls, such as Ingvararfoss, Fiskárfoss or Glæfra.

Selfoss is not so high (11 meters), but is intensely strong and wide. This adorable waterfall is situated upstream from the glorious Dettifoss waterfall and marks the beginning of the Jökulsá gorge (Jökulsárgljúfur in Icelandic).

Dettifoss is situated 308 meters above sea level in one of the canyons of the river Jökulsá at Fjöllum, a river resulting from the melting of the Vatnajökull glacier. Dettifoss is perhaps the most popular waterfall in Iceland, and the most powerful waterfall in Europe because it is 100 meters wide,  45 meters high, and flows at an impressive speed. Dettifoss is found in the Vatnajökull national park and has become a movie attraction when it appeared in the opening scene of the film “Prometheus” by Ridley Scott.

Hafragilsfoss is located 2 kilometres downstream from the mighty Dettifoss waterfall, meeting the glacier river Jökulsá at Fjöllum at a 27-meter drop. Hafragilsfoss pours down volumes of water at a forceful speed and this you can see from both sides of the river. The series of impressive waterfalls comprising of Selfoss, Dettifoss and Hafragilsfoss is a must see for any one wishing to have a full-on waterfall experience.

Safety advice for lovers of Icelandic waterfalls

The summer of 2015 has seen a rise in tourism in Iceland,  and a rise in incidences involving visitors unaware of the dangers of getting too close to the edge of steep waterfalls. Yes! Icelandic nature is powerful and energetic, but also let’s not forget to respect that it’s sometimes fragile too. There is still very little infrastructure around the waterfall sites listed above. Pathways and fences are few, so please be careful! and remember! that “no fence” is not an invitation to get as near as you wish. Take in the lovely view of course… but not too closely!

Joanne, Iceland24h.blogspot.com

Lofthellir in North Iceland: Natural Ice Sculptures in a 3,500 year old lava cave

In the far north of Iceland lies a weird but beautiful world of ice and darkness. Enter Cave Lofthellir. Here, the underground boasts the greatest natural ice sculptures currently known in an Icelandic lava cave.

Lofthellir is a 3,500 year old lava cave that extends around 370 meters long and boasts formations that will leave you in awe. You can choose whether you want to start the tour from Akureyri or the Lake Myvatn area.

To get to the cave, you’ll drive to an area a mere 45 minute drive from Lake Myvatn. You’ll cross the unique volcano Hverfell, through the crater row of Lúdentarborgir to the roots of Mt. Hvannfell. After a 30 minute or so walk across a lava field, filled with unusual rock and landscape formations, you’ll arrive at a ladder made from rope which you’ll descend in order to enter the cave.

You’ll likely be given rubber boots since although it’s likely to be dry on your hike, you’ll need protection for your shoes once you enter the ice cave. Remember, it’ll be very wet inside.

Once you descend the ladder with your weatherproof gear on, you’re greeted with crystal clear ice before you make your way into the core of the cave itself.

After a few shallow chambers, you need to use a rope to get to the larger chambers, pulling yourself up along a slick area of ice. If you’re claustrophobic, then this may not be for you but if not, it’s certainly an adventure. On the way back, I recommend just sliding down the ice holding onto the rope while you do so – it’s one way to feel ten years old again in a split second.

The colors inside the cave are stunning – vibrant and surreal at the same time.

At one point while we were in the main chamber, our guide turned off all the lights and asked us to dim the flashers on our helmuts. Suddenly, we were completely in the dark with the only sound to be heard, a mere drizzle of water from an icicle above.

We sat quiet for many minutes listening to that soft drizzle and not uttering a word – silence meets serenity. It was a magical experience and something I’d recommend doing even if your guide doesn’t call for it.

Note: I did it with Visit Askja (info@visitaskja.com), a personalized adventure tour company that specializes in trips. All opinions expressed here are my own. I’d recommend taking one or more of their tours when you’re in the north of the country.

They have free hotel pick-up and departure time is 09:30am. This tour takes around 4-5 hours and the longest hiking time is 2x25 minutes.

This tour is not recommended or suitable for young children, people with claustrophobia or people that are not in reasonable physical condition. There is ice and water on the floor of the cave and the temperature inside the cave is around 0°C.

Iceland24h.blogspot.com
© 2015 Iceland24h.blogspot.com

Akureyri Travel Guide, The Capital of North Iceland

For some time now we have wanted to write about the biggest town in Iceland, outside the Reykjavík peninsula. Akureyri is one of the places you´ll end up in if you are travelling around the island (the road ring or route 1 passes through it) and it were those visitors travelling that circle that inspired the writing of this article.

This precious town is located in the biggest fjord in Iceland (Eyjafjörður), surrounded by a beautiful mountain ring and enriched with many touristic attractions (but most of them are unknown to outsiders). With the help of Jóhanna, a local “akureyringur”, we got a detailed guide through one of the most delightful places of the island.

History

The town received its first municipal rights in 1786 but lost it in 1836. In 1862 the town regained its right and from then it started growing for real. In the 19th century the town expanded rapidly and became an important industrial center, dividing itself in two different zones, the commercial traders living in the south (the most beautiful one today) while the working class built up the north area.

It´s an interesting fact that the area of the present town was once a Viking settlement, one of the most important remains of the Viking era in this place is a small bronze sculpture of the Norse thunder god Thor.

Places recommended in Akureyri and its surrounding

The botanic garden (Lystigarðurinn)

What do you think of visiting the most northern botanic garden on the planet? If yes, then you´ll find it in Akureyri. It´s located at the heart of the town offering a romantic stroll amidst amazing diversion of colorful flowers, especially recommended in the heap of summer.

The garden was established in 1912 by a group of women but today its own by the town. In it you can find almost all the flowers and plants existing in Iceland as well as over 6000 foreign species. We recommend after a walk to sit down for a coffee and cake at the coffee house “Björk” which is located in the middle of the garden. Here you´ll find a detailed plan of the place.

The botanic garden is open from the 1st of June until the 3th of September with the opening hours from 08.00 until 22.00 (free entrance).

The swimming pool of Akureyri

Even though there is couple of swimming pools in and around Akureyri, the one we like the most is a walking distance from the botanic garden, as well in the middle of the town. Going there after a stroll in the botanic garden is a fantastic way to finish the tour.

The swimming pool (called Akureyrarlaug) is almost completely outdoor and has alot to offer in terms of relaxation and of course, exercise.  There are two big swimming pools, a splashpool for the little ones, 4 hot tubs (each being at different temperatures), steam bath, 3 water slides, an extensive area for sunbathing and a perfect artificial waterfall to relax your back and have a natural water massage. All the pools are heated by natural geothermal water and the temps range from a pleasant 27°C to the hottest pot at 42°C.

The swimming pool of Akureyri is open all year around and you can rent both swimsuits and towels. Weekdays it´s open until 21.00 and to 19.30 at weekends.

The Christmas house (Jólagarðurinn)

Located 10 km south of Akureyri, this adorable little Christmas garden and a store are open all year around and has an amazing variety of decorations, local handicrafts, ornaments and sweets all related to Christmas.

The outside of the red house resembles a house made of cookies and inside the decoration is impressive. Around the house there is a beautifully decorated garden, ideal for picnic. It even has a fairy tale tower which hosts the world´s biggest Christmas calendar (makes it worth climbing the stairs).

Traditional Icelandic houses (Laufás)

You´ll find these farmhouses just 20 minutes with a car from Akureyri and they are considered as a prototype of the old traditional Icelandic architecture. The oldest house still standing was built in 1840 but there has also been a church located at Laufás since the earliest period of Christianity in Iceland.

What immediately calls for an attention are the roofs of the houses which are covered with grass but that gave a “natural isolation” against the cold. At times, there was between 20 and 30 people living in Laufás and the last inhabitants lived there in 1936.

Now the houses are maintained as a museum as well as you´ll find a restaurant and a souvenir shop. The museum is open every day from 09.00-18.00 (from 15th of May until 15th of September). On Thursdays they have open until 22.00.To get to Laufás you´ll have to take route 1 in the direction east and take the exit 83 in the direction to Grenivík. You can see Laufás from the road (it´s easy to reach). 

The ski resort (Hlíðarfjall)

Without a doubt this is one of the best places in Iceland to practice this winter sport. The mountain rises above the town and the view up there is breathtaking. There you can do downhill skiing and cross country skiing, snowboarding or whatever you feel like with over three ski lifts to take you up the mountain. You don´t need to bring your own equipment, you can rent all of it there.

Hlíðarfjall is situated 500m- 1000m above sea level so in the winter there is alot of snow, an ideal condition for skiing. It´s only 5 km from the town and it is usually open from early december through april, depending on the amount of snow each year. You can see the opening hours in the following link and the price list here.

The forest of Akureyri (Kjarnaskógur)

South of the town, just above the airport, you´ll find Kjarnaskógur, a small but perfect place for an afternoon stroll, picnic or just to relax with your family. There are plenty of small routes all over the proximately 600 acres and it´s estimated that there are around 1 million trees in the area, many of them planted in the last 50 years.

There is one simple route of 7km that we recommend as well as another 10km designed for mountain bikes. There are also two playgrounds, picnic areas, barbecue facilities, toilets and a volleyball court. For bird lovers, it also has a rich wildlife and even a bird sanctuary.

Grímsey

Even it´s not located in Akureyri, we cannot help to mention Grímsey, an island located 150 km north of Akureyri, a place totally recommended for bird lovers, especially lovers of puffins. On this island there are cliffs filled with thousands of these tiny cute birds. It´s an unique experience to see that island.

There is a direct flight connection Akureyri - Grímsey but it´s also possible to take a bus + boat to get there. We already have a more detailed article about Islands of Iceland which you can find here.

Where to sleep?

In Akureyri there are plenty of hotels, guesthouses and hostels to pass the night but we would like to make one special suggestion: Elf Guesthouse.

This is a guesthouse run by an elderly couple on the other side of the fjord (about 2 km from the town center) but they have built a gorgeous little wooden hut in a small forest next to a big stone which is said to be the home of an Elf.

If we are not mistaken, the Elf Guesthouse only has one other house nearby where the Icelandic couple lives in their own land of 200 square meters. According to Karl (the owner and a local carpenter), when they bought the land one of the condition that the seller made was that they would not “disturb” the elf nor built on or demolish the stone.

That promise they have kept, a garden around the stone is beautifully kept with lovely trees, flowers and ornaments. This place is the most romantic and amazing that you can imagine it´s like a small paradise. It only offers the possibility of renting the house to a couple. Direct contact with Karl is info@elfguesthouse.com

Where to eat?

Even though it may sound unbelievable there are many dining options in this small town of 18.000 inhabitants, all with different taste and budget. We will recommend four places we think are interesting for several reasons:

Bautinn. This restaurant is right in the town center and offers a classic menu for medium price. We recommend trying out the horse meat but all the main dishes come with a soup and a salad bar.

Rub23. This is the best restaurant in Akureyri and one of the top 5 in Iceland (the owner has another restaurant in Reykjavík). Here all the food is of high quality, an excellent wine menu and we highly recommend trying their specialty: sushi pizza.

1862 Nordic Bistro. Located in the cultural center HOF and offers a magnificent view with dishes and food typical of Denmark.

Strikið. Situated at the 5th floor, next to the main street of Akureyri. This place has a nice lounge atmosphere, quality food, good wine and gorgeous view. What more do you need?

To top it off here we have a link where you can view schedules of different activities, restaurants, museums, transportation, travel agencies, supermarket, drug stores, ice cream parlors and cafes in Akureyri. There were so many other places we could have mentioned but we don´t want to overdo it. What a piece of an article!

Kolla and Jóhanna
© 2015 by Iceland24h.blogspot.com