The land of fire and ice is one of the most fascinating places on planet Earth. The awe-inspiring landscapes, the pristine forces of nature, the infinite and always-surprising combinations of fire, water, earth and air are everywhere to be found.
Iceland - The Land of Fire and Ice
Nature lovers are mesmerized by Iceland’s spell. There are just not many places on our planet where you can admire black sand beaches, erupting volcanoes, lumbering glaciers and thunderous waterfalls while at the same time swimming in hot springs, betting on when geysers will erupt, and hiking across barren rocky deserts. It’s no wonder the country’s nature has been the inspiration for countless Icelandic sagas and songs.
Today, Iceland boasts one of the world’s highest standards of living thanks mainly to its natural resources such as fish, thermal energy and hydropower. Notwithstanding the modernity, its inhabitants have never relinquished their cultural roots and harmonic existence with nature.
Our Iceland Circumnavigation introduces you to many facets of the island, a journey that showcases the country and its people, wildlife as varied as wild horses and whales, culture and cuisine, stories and legends. Most cities and towns are located along the coast and can easily be reached by boat. However, our numerous shore excursions give you the opportunity to explore the interior of Iceland as well.
The land of fire and ice is attracting more and more visitors from all over the world. We are proud to show our guests this vibrant destination in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Iceland deserves its German Cruise Award 2016 as Destination of the Year.
Iceland - Home of Elves and Trolls
Did you know, for example, that from time to time you can see tiny houses all over Iceland that are meant to be homes for elves, even in many private gardens? Furthermore, it is not allowed to build houses on some hills on the island, as elves might live under them, and they should not be disturbed. In case it happens, the mostly invisible creatures might play dirty tricks on you.
If you are interested in more legends like this, you should plan a tour from Akureyri to Dimmuborgir by rental car or a day tour by bus, on your trip around the island. The name of the lava field near Lake Mývatn can be translated as "dark city". The many bizarre stone formations you can find here are said to be trolls, who celebrated until dawn. However, as soon as the first rays of sun broke through the clouds, the trolls turned to stone.
In addition, Dimmuborgir is also home to the famous Icelandic Yule Lads. While they rest during summer and stay away from people, you can spot them here especially at Christmas time. The mysterious and exciting area was developed about 2,000 years ago. It has also been used as a filming location for the famous TV series Game of Thrones.
Most towns and villages are located on the coast and easily accessible by boat. Our numerous shore excursions also give you other opportunities to explore the interior of the country. For example, you can go on a whale watching tour from Húsavik.
Húsavik, in the north of Iceland, is considered the centre of whale watching, and sighting is very likely. The chance to see one or even several whales is about 99%. With a lot of luck, you can not only see minke or humpback whales, but even orca or blue whales. More ideas for shore excursions can be found here.
Iceland is one of Europe’s the last adventures – let us guide you there!