Destinations Europe

An Icelandic odyssey

Take a Cunard voyage to this legendary realm and discover a world steeped in natural wonders and ancient history.

4 min 14 Sep 2020

Cunard

Author

Viking sagas and ancient myths stir the imagination in this land of fire and ice. Be dazzled by dramatic snow-capped mountains, mirrored lakes and dense forests, combined with thundering waterfalls, natural hot springs and bubbling lava pools. Sail across spectacular fjords as you venture through the otherworldly landscape that provides a stunning backdrop to your Iceland cruise. After all, this is the place where much of Game of Thrones was filmed.

Akureyri

The first port of call on your Icelandic adventure is Akureyri , often referred to as the ‘Capital of the North’. Despite its proximity to the Arctic Circle, Akureyri 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; Lake Mývatn (formed by lava flows), the unique craters at Skútustaðir, and the spectacular 40-foot-high Godafoss Falls, known as Falls of the Gods after Icelanders converted to Christianity in 1000AD. Less dramatically – but no less intriguing – learn how Icelandic people traditionally lived in timber-framed, turf roofed, houses at The Old Farmhouse Laufás in Eyjafjörður.

Grey silhouette of a person's head and shoulders

"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 Experience Assistant, Cunard

Ísafjörður

Your Iceland voyage of discovery continues to Ísafjörður via the country’s western fjords. Keep binoculars at the ready for the thrilling tell-tale spout from a blowhole – these are prime whale-watching waters after all. A port call in Ísafjörður provides opportunity to gain valuable insight into the culture and history of this mountainous region. Visit the charming Flateyri fishing village (a major whaling centre in the 19th century) where time seems to have paused, or explore the town of Ísafjörður itself and discover life through the centuries. At the open-air Ósvör Maritime Museum, you’ll find a fascinating 19th-century fishing base, while a chance to see the crystal-clear waters of the Buna River and Waterfall in Tunguskógur is not to be missed.

Reykjavík

The world’s most northern capital city of Reykjavík makes a fascinating finale to your Iceland holiday. Here, you’ll be greeted by a mass of brightly coloured corrugated iron roofs – just one of the charming sights to enjoy in this greenest of global cities – along with a vibrant shopping and culinary scene. On our breathtaking Golden Circle excursion, you can drink in the views of waterfalls and the spouting geysers along with a wealth of other natural beauty and geothermal wonders close by. These include the dramatic landscape of UNESCO World Heritage Site Thingvellir (Þingvellir) National Park; the majestic Gullfoss Waterfall; and not least, the geothermal area of Geysir where you can watch the spectacular geyser Strokkur launch a 75-footjet of hot water into the air.

Reykjavik skyline in the evening, Shutterstock ID - 316413410

"My favourite 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, 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 warmth of the mineral-rich waters, while the cleansing white geothermal mud works its magic. Otherworldly indeed and a fitting end to your Iceland cruise.