Windstar's Around Iceland The cruise embarks on a journey that completely circumnavigates one of the most diverse and dramatic island nations on Earth. It's the perfect itinerary to immerse yourself in local culture, explore natural wonders, and get a taste of Northern Europe's Viking history.
It dances along the southern edge of the Arctic Circle. As you circumnavigate the northern part of Iceland, you'll briefly cross the Arctic Circle. You will set foot in a small village that dates back to the 8th century.Day As the 20th century progresses, you'll hear the legends of the original Viking settlers and marvel at the natural wonders each port has to offer. While you're at it, look for humpback whales and Atlantic puffins.
Once you reach the coast, you can meet Icelandic horses, hike to waterfalls, soak in hot springs, enjoy culinary adventures, explore black sand beaches, hike through Berserkjahraun lava fields, and spot wildlife. .
This is a fascinating exploration itinerary for nature lovers, history buffs, and anyone who wants to feel small amidst the wonders of nature. Here are some highlights:
Reykjavik
Your Icelandic adventure begins in the capital, Reykjavik. The city was founded in 871 AD by two Viking settlers, Ingolfur Arnason and Halleveig Frodadottir. They called it ‘Smoky Bay’ because of the volcanic vents that created a smoky illusion in the water. Once a rugged Viking settlement, the city of Reykjavik has come charging into the 21st century.castle This is the century that fully adopted geothermal energy. It is now known as the ‘Smokeless City’.
Despite being the world's smallest capital city, the city is made up of six large districts, each housing a variety of attractions.
From the port to the city center, fascinating attractions such as Old Reykjavik, Viking Saga Museum, Maritime Museum, Harpa, Iceland's main concert hall, Reykjavik National Museum and Icelandic Whales are just a 10-minute walk away. There are also parks to relax in, beach trails to stroll, and plenty of boutiques selling cool Icelandic sweaters (which you might actually need in the summer, too, since the nights are cool). And don't miss Reykjavik's many bookstores. The city is a UNESCO City of Literature. Most also sell books in English and Icelandic. What I like the most is National chain Penninn Eymundsson has a store in the city center at Austurstraeti 18. There are actually rooftop cafes and English-language titles coming out of the UK, so there's a different selection than what the US has to offer.
Reykjavik isn't the only city in Iceland with Michelin-starred restaurants, but it has its fair share, including Matur og Drykkur, where you can sample traditional Icelandic cuisine. Our favorite restaurant is a restaurant called Apotek in the old town. It's not Michelin-level, but it's delicious, trendy, and always full of locals. reservation… .
You'll find unique local specialties such as fermented shark, fish soup, Icelandic bread and a local liquor called Brennivin.
Heimaey Island
Heimaey, located just a few miles off Iceland's southern coast, is like another long-lost world in the cold waters of the North Atlantic. The volcano that formed Heimaei Island almost destroyed it on several occasions. The most famous explosion in modern times occurred in January 1973. It occurred when a rift burst, allowing Eldfell to emerge. The incident led to an immediate evacuation of the island.
Heimaey Island is famous for its dramatic scenery, so you'll want to get up close to the lava flows from Eldfell Volcano, visit a puffin viewing area, and join one of the island tours that show examples of puffins. Icelandic traditional mud house.
The port is a 10-minute walk from the city center, where attractions include the Aquarium and Natural History Museum and the Sagunheimar Folk Museum. There are also several shops, cafes and local restaurants to enjoy. It is also a short walk to Stafkirkjan, the beautiful black Heimaei wooden church. Be sure to enjoy the small lava field trail along the way.
Seydisfjordur
This beautiful fjord stretches for 11 miles through dramatic volcanic scenery and ends at Seydisfjordur, considered Iceland's most picturesque village. Offering visitors an incredible natural environment, the town is also home to a thriving arts scene and some of the friendliest people in the world.
Seydisfjordur began as a trading center for foreign merchants in 1848, but became wealthy due to its abundance of herring. It has grown to become the largest and most prosperous city in eastern Iceland. The original settlement and tombs date back to the 8th century.Day The century shows that foreign merchants were not the first to profit from the wealth of the fjords. The village is charming and small, with a few boutiques, artisan craft shops (gorgeous Icelandic woolen fabrics) pubs and cafes. The supermarket is also not to be missed. I discovered some great little tidbits that would make great gifts when you get home.
The town is a great hub for nature lovers, offering several hiking trails to discover waterfalls and beautiful scenery. The port is just a 10-minute walk from the village, where you can wander the streets and admire the famous Blue Church with its colorful buildings, painted streets and rainbow streets.
There are also many day trip options to discover the highlights around eastern Iceland. These include learning about Eider Ducks, Skalanes Nature Reserve, hiking Hengifoss, and a few other excursion options. One of my favorite adventures was visiting Vok Baths, a floating hot springs complex on the edge of a lake. It's a lovely 45-minute drive from downtown, so you'll need to book a car in advance or arrange a round-trip transfer.
Akureyri
Akureyri is Iceland's second largest urban area and is called the 'Capital of the North'. Next to Reykjavik, it is also a vibrant center for art and culture. The city is at the head of Eyjafjordur, which is just over 37 miles long. It is one of the longest fjords in the country. Additionally, Akureyri is only 62 miles from the Arctic Circle. This makes it one of the most important hubs for exploring North Iceland.
While in port you can enjoy numerous adventures, tours and activities. This includes whale watching in the self-proclaimed whale capital of Iceland, giving you the opportunity to get up close with the humpback whales that live and migrate in the area.
You'll also meet Icelandic horses, tour the countryside, visit Myvatn Nature Baths, take a scenic flight over the Diamond Circle, and admire the Jewels of the North. You can enjoy a comprehensive tour of the area's best attractions, including:
Or just hang out and explore the city. Must-see places in Akureyri include Listagil (Arts Gorge) with its many art and craft galleries and shops, the beautiful churches in the city center, the botanical gardens and Hafnarstraeti, the main shopping street.
Isafjordur
Isafjordur is the largest city on the Westfjord peninsula, with approximately 2,600 residents. Located at the tip of Skutulsfjordur, the village is built on a sandy beach and with the famous Troll's Throne looming overhead, it is a popular place for hikers to explore.
The town was first established as a settlement in the 9th century.Day century and 19th centuryDay The century embraced a rapidly growing brine industry that contributed significantly to the city's boom. Iceland's shrimp industry also began here, giving the town its golden age in the early 20th century.Day century. Today the city has a thriving tourism industry and has become Iceland's main cruise destination. It also serves as a base from which visitors can explore the rest of the Westfjords region.
The trip will allow you to explore Hesteyri village, Osvor Museum, Dynjandi waterfall, fjord kayaking, Sudavik village, Arctic fox centre, Bolafjall mountain, take an ATV tour along the edge of the fjord or enjoy a RIB boat tour. For whale watching.
Grundarfjordur
The community of Grundarfjordur, located in Breidafjordur near the halfway point on the northern coast of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, is growing. This town is characterized by a unique climate and beautiful environment. The village serves as a base for exploring the Beserkjahraun lava field and Snaefellsjokull, the mountain made famous by Jules Verne.
Kirkjufell and Kirkjufellsfoss are perhaps more famous than the city itself. Kirkjufell is one of Iceland's most beautiful mountains, and it has been the center and front of various social media platforms for many years. There is a hiking trail to the base of Kirkjufell to see the falls, but if you want to go further it is best to get a guide.
The trip goes deeper with a trip to the center of the Earth, which features a cave exploration of the Snæfellsjökull glacier, a hiking trip in the Beserkjahraun lava field (roughly translated as “madman lava field”), and a walk on top of it. You can approach. Top Snaefellsjokull Glacier, Viking sushi boat tours, bird watching in search of puffins, and a comprehensive overview tour of the wonders of the West.
Reykjavik
congratulation! You have completed an immersive tour of Iceland, one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Before returning home, use your free time to explore more of Iceland by booking a trip to Krysuvik and the Blue Lagoon. After soaking up the geological wonders of the Reykjanes Peninsula, take a dip in the vibrant blue waters of Iceland's most popular hot springs.
Alternatively, if you haven't had time to explore downtown Reykjavik before departure, take a downtown walking tour or hop on a city tour bus to learn more about the city's fascinating history.