Tour de Iceland – Tour de Force

History 

Iceland was the last area in Europe to be populated. According to records, this occurred in 874 when Norwegian Vikings, fleeing from conflict in their homeland, came to the island. The same people went on to inhabit Greenland a little later (and eventually landed in mainland North America). The islands’ names are a bit confusing as Iceland is in fact not ice-covered year-round, whereas Greenland for the most part is. As it turns out, Iceland was discovered in the winter and got its name from that. Greenland, however, was given its name to lure more settlers there. The climate at the time was milder, so it might have been greener there, but still it was false advertising.  

The Vikings stayed on Iceland and founded, among other things, one of the oldest existing parliaments on Earth, the ‘Allting’, which is still functioning today. Iceland fell under different rulers as the powers changed hands in Scandinavia and finally ended up under Danish rule. This remained so until the Republic of Iceland was established after World War II.  

Today, Iceland is the most sparsely populated country in Europe, with a population of only about 360,000, with over two-thirds living in the southwest area around the capital of Reykjavík. 

The isolated location has created a unique culture with resilient people with strong family ties and a strong sense of tradition. Iceland is also a modern, prosperous nation, which ranks highly in economy, democracy and equality and currently has the highest median wealth ranking per adult in the world. 

Nature 

Iceland is shaped by volcanic magma and glaciers, which make the landscape unique. There are more than 125 volcanic mountains in the country and some of them are still very active. Volcanic eruptions are a constant threat to the population, and people there still bear in mind the great eruption in 783, which killed 9,000 people and 80% of their livestock, the aftermath of which killed 25% of the population due to starvation. But nature gives as it takes; hydro and geothermal energy power more than 80% of the country. 

Despite its history, Iceland is a country in the making. The effects of two tectonic plates drifting apart is clearly visible on the island. This creates the spectacular natural wonders you’ll experience there such as geysers, hot springs, and, of course, volcanoes. 

Climate 

Iceland lies in the path of the North Atlantic Current, which makes the climate more temperate than one would expect. The average temperature is 32°F (0°C) in winter and 50–55°F (10–13°C) in summer. Warm summer days can reach 68–77°F (20–25°C). Annual sunshine hours in Reykjavik are around 1,300, which is quite similar to many northern European towns. 

Hurtigruten circumnavigates Iceland 

Discover some of the landing sites we may visit on an expedition cruise to Iceland: 

Reykjavík 

Iceland’s capital and largest city is a captivating mix of rich urban life and incredible natural formations like glaciers, waterfalls, geysers and mountains. The city is actually a hotbed of activity and culture, with a buzzing nightlife and a great restaurant scene. Although fishing traditionally has been the major industry, the financial and IT sectors are now important employers in the city. 

Stykkishólmur  

This welcoming and well-preserved old town is the center of service and commerce in the area. Excursions to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula’s Lóndrangar cliffs or the black-sand beaches of Djúpalónssandur are all possible. 

Patreksfjördur  

A charming settlement of around 660 inhabitants, this village is set in a picturesque fjord close to a spectacular waterfall. It is a renowned birdwatching spot with great hiking opportunities. 

Akureyri  

Close to renowned natural treasures such as Lake Mývatn and the Godafoss waterfall, Akureyri hosts fine botanical gardens and a lively cultural scene. 

Grímsey  

This scenic island has the distinction of having the Arctic Circle cut across it from north to south. The island has just 61 inhabitants and is the northernmost inhabited part of Iceland. 

Bakkagerdi  

Bakkagerdi is known for its raw natural beauty and is known as ‘the land of the elves’. The landscape is truly fairy tale-like, and it seems like a natural habitat for all kinds of mystical and mythical figures. The actual, real-life puffin is also drawn here, with abundant colonies in the local fjord, making this a popular place for birdwatching. 

Heimaey  

Heimaey, the ‘Home Island’ boasts a harbor with a very narrow entrance, caused by a volcanic eruption, and steep cliffs that are home to countless seabirds, including the charming puffin. 

During your trip around Iceland, you can take part in a wide range of activities (included or optional) on land and at sea. Whatever your activity level or interests are, you’ll find something that suits you, allowing you to explore and discover Iceland in the best possible way. 

Guests can enjoy kayaking, hiking, bird watching, town walks and lectures.