ICELAND PORTS AND CITIES
ICELAND PORTS AND CITIES
| Akureyri | Grundarfjordur | Isafjordur | Reykjavik |
Akureyri
Fjords Cruise to Akureyri in Exciting Iceland, From Active Volconoes to Snow and Ice
Cruise to Iceland, a place of delightful contradictions where flowers flourish amid ice and snow. Some of nature's most powerful antics, from active volcanoes to geothermal phenomena, exist only a few miles from charming towns and major cultural centres. For those in search of the unexpected, the surprises begin in Akureyri — Iceland's second-largest city. The Botanical Garden in Akureyri is the most northerly one of its kind, home to nearly 2,000 plant species. First opened in 1912, the gardens boast every species native to Iceland and more. The sulphur pits and boiling mud pools at Namaskard are in constant action — roaring and splashing while sending up vapor plumes. Godafoss Waterfall's name was derived from the momentous occasion when Chieftain Thorgeir of Ljosvatn threw his collection of heathen statues into the falls as a public declaration of his conversion to the Christian faith in the year 1000 A.D.
Grundarfjordur
Cruise to Grundarfjordur it Will be a Journey to the Centre of the Earth! - Iceland
Visionary 19th century novelist Jules Verne was so inspired by the spectacularly volcanic terrain of the Snaefellsnes (Snow Mountain) peninsula, on which the Icelandic cruise port Grundafjordur is located, that he set his epic tale 'Journey to the Centre of the Earth' at its heart – Snaefellsjokull. This is the glacier on top of the 3,000-year-old dormant volcano which dominates the peninsula and over which locals and visitors now go hiking, skiing and snowmobiling. Across the peninsula are some remarkable rock formations which are described in local folklore as petrified trolls. It is also home to an array of wild birds including arctic terns, puffins and cormorants while rare plants grow among the lava fields. Grundarfjordur is one of its collection of small fishing villages and dates back to 1786 when its superb natural harbour in a fjord between snow-capped mountains turned it into one of Iceland's major trading centres. According to legend, Eric the Red set off from Grundafjordur to find Greenland.
Isafjordur
Fjords Cruise to Isafjordur, Experience the Magnificent Natural Beauty of the West Fjords - Iceland
The Icelandic fishing port of Isafjordur is the perfect starting point for those who want to experience the magnificent natural beauty of the West Fjords, and its two valleys of Tungudalur and Engidalur lend themselves well to outdoor pursuits. Surrounded by steep sloping mountains you can indulge in a spot of skiing, golfing, or hiking - just some of the activities on offer. The town is also rich in art, culture and historical significance. Main points of interest include the Slunkariki Art Gallery and the West Fjords Folk Museum which houses a remarkable collection of traditional tools and relics. Nearby Neostikaupstaour consists of the oldest buildings in Iceland, including four from the 18th century, which belonged to Danish merchants. The town centre is interesting to walk around as it has a selection of old streets, small shops and a unique array of houses. Known for its quirky peculiarities don't be surprised to see the barber playing his accordion, the baker training for the marathon or see the goldsmith paddling around in his kayak!
Reykjavik
Cruise to Pristine Reykjavik, it may be Iceland's Capital, but it is Hot Stuff
Claimed to be the cleanest city on earth, this pristine island is filled with glaciers, volcanoes, and mineral-rich hot springs. Stroll through the charming Austurvollur Square and visit one of 50 museums and art galleries or stop in one of the many cafes for some of the freshest seafood you'll find anywhere.





















