Akureyri, the heart of North Iceland, is a unique blend of coastal charm and highland mystery, offering a multitude of activities for any traveller.
Just a short stroll from the heart of Akureyri, the botanical gardens, known locally as Lystigarðurinn, are a floral paradise, particularly notable because of their location just about 50 kilometres south of the Arctic Circle. Despite the northerly location, the garden hosts a surprisingly diverse range of flora, including over 7,000 different plant species, some of which are native to the area. The meticulously maintained gardens offer a peaceful retreat, with winding paths leading visitors through vibrant beds of flowers that thrive under the midnight sun in summer months. Open during daylight hours and free to the public, the gardens also feature a charming café where one can enjoy a warm cup of coffee surrounded by the aroma of blossoming flowers.
A short drive from Akureyri will lead you to one of Iceland's most spectacular natural landmarks: Goðafoss, known as the Waterfall of the Gods. The waterfall is steeped in history and lore, named after an event in the year 1000 AD when the law speaker Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði threw his pagan idols into the falls as a symbolic gesture of Iceland’s conversion to Christianity. Goðafoss presents a magnificent sight, where the Skjálfandafljót River falls over a horseshoe-shaped cliff, creating a dramatic cascade. Visitors can easily access viewing platforms for up-close perspectives of the falls, where the thunderous roar of the water and the sight of rainbows forming in the misty spray create a magical atmosphere.
Lake Mývatn, a scenic 45-minute drive east of Akureyri, is a geographical marvel and a haven for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. This region is an area of active volcanism and has been shaped by volcanic eruptions and geothermal activity, creating a landscape dotted with craters, lava formations, and hot springs. The lake itself is known for its rich biodiversity, especially the large variety of waterfowl that nest in the area. Visitors can hike the paths around the pseudo-craters at Skútustaðagígar, explore the dramatic lava formations at Dimmuborgir, which are often referred to as the Dark Castles, and take a dip in the geothermally heated waters of the Mývatn Nature Baths, often dubbed as the north’s answer to the Blue Lagoon, but with a fraction of the crowd and a more intimate experience with nature.
Which cruise lines sail to Akureyri?
