An Icelandic odyssey
Viking sagas and ancient myths stir the imagination in this land of fire and ice. Dramatic snow-capped mountains, mirrored lakes and dense forests combine with thundering waterfalls, natural hot springs, bubbling lava pools and spectacular fjords to create an other-worldly landscape and provide a stunning backdrop to your trip to Iceland. After all, this is the place where much of Game of Thrones was filmed.
Our first port of call on your Iceland cruise is Akureyri, which is often known as the ‘Capital of the North’. Despite its proximity to the Arctic Circle, it enjoys a surprisingly mild climate and a wealth of attractions, including the beautiful Botanical Garden. From here, set off to explore some of Iceland’s most astonishing natural wonders, such as Lake Mývatn, which is formed by lava flows, the unique craters at Skútustaðir, and not least the spectacular 40-foot-high Godafoss Falls, which became known as Falls of the Gods after Icelanders converted to Christianity in 1000AD and their idols of Norse mythology were thrown into the cascading torrent. Less dramatically – but no less intriguing – is to learn how the Icelandic people traditionally lived in timber-framed turf roof houses at The Old Farmhouse Laufás in Eyjafjörður.
‘Go to the workshops and galleries of the local artisans in picturesque Akureyri – and be sure to pop into a local brewery to try an excellent craft beer or two.' - Laura Pothecary, Shore Excursion Assistant, Cunard.
‘My favorite tour here is from Reykjavik to visit one of the natural ice caves. The drive there is stunning and so much fun, as you go on 4x4.' - Andressa Ricci Williams, Cunard Port Presenter.
To really get close to nature, don’t miss our spectacular excursion to the Blue Lagoon for a dip into its warm, aquamarine waters. Surrounded by a volcanic landscape of lava, this famous natural geothermal spa has been nominated by National Geographic as one of the wonders of the world. Feel yourself truly relax as your body absorbs the heat and the mineral-rich waters, while the cleansing white geothermal mud works its magic... other-worldly indeed and a fitting end to your Iceland break.
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Inspired, by Cunard
Compiled by Sharon Parsons.