Northern Legends: Ireland, Scotland & Iceland

Dublin is making a comeback. The decade-long "Celtic Tiger" boom era was quickly followed by the Great Recession, but The Recovery has finally taken a precarious hold. For visitors, this newer and wiser Dublin has become one of western Europe's most popular and delightful urban destinations. Whether or not you're out to enjoy the old or new Dublin, you'll find it a colossally entertaining city, all the more astonishing considering its intimate size.It is ironic and telling that James Joyce chose Dublin as the setting for his famous Ulysses, Dubliners, and A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man because it was a "center of paralysis" where nothing much ever changed. Which only proves that even the greats get it wrong sometimes. Indeed, if Joyce were to return to his once-genteel hometown today—disappointed with the city's provincial outlook, he left it in 1902 at the age of 20—and take a quasi-Homeric odyssey through the city (as he so famously does in Ulysses), would he even recognize Dublin as his "Dear Dirty Dumpling, foostherfather of fingalls and dotthergills"?For instance, what would he make of Temple Bar—the city's erstwhile down-at-the-heels neighborhood, now crammed with cafés and trendy hotels and suffused with a nonstop, international-party atmosphere? Or the simple sophistication of the open-air restaurants of the tiny Italian Quarter (named Quartier Bloom after his own creation), complete with sultry tango lessons? Or of the hot–cool Irishness, where every aspect of Celtic culture results in sold-out theaters, from Once, the cult indie movie and Broadway hit, to Riverdance, the old Irish mass-jig recast as a Las Vegas extravaganza? Plus, the resurrected Joyce might be stirred by the songs of Hozier, fired up by the sultry acting of Michael Fassbender, and moved by the award-winning novels of Colum McCann. As for Ireland's capital, it's packed with elegant shops and hotels, theaters, galleries, coffeehouses, and a stunning variety of new, creative little restaurants can be found on almost every street in Dublin, transforming the provincial city that suffocated Joyce into a place almost as cosmopolitan as the Paris to which he fled. And the locals are a hell of a lot more fun! Now that the economy has finally turned a corner, Dublin citizens can cast a cool eye over the last 20 crazy years. Some argue that the boomtown transformation of their heretofore-tranquil city has permanently affected its spirit and character. These skeptics (skepticism long being a favorite pastime in the capital city) await the outcome of "Dublin: The Sequel," and their greatest fear is the possibility that the tattered old lady on the Liffey has become a little less unique, a little more like everywhere else.Oh ye of little faith: the rare ole gem that is Dublin is far from buried. The fundamentals—the Georgian elegance of Merrion Square, the Norman drama of Christ Church Cathedral, the foamy pint at an atmospheric pub—are still on hand to gratify. Most of all, there are the locals themselves: the nod and grin when you catch their eye on the street, the eagerness to hear half your life story before they tell you all of theirs, and their paradoxically dark but warm sense of humor. It's expected that 2016 will be an extra-special year in the capital, as centenary celebrations of the fateful 1916 Easter Rising will dominate much of the cultural calendar.

Your Discovery Voyage begins in Dublin, where you’ll be greeted at the airport and escorted to your 6-star ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht.

Upon boarding, you’ll be warmly welcomed by the crew, ask your butler to bring a glass of Champagne to your suite and toast the start of your journey from your private verandah. Join your fellow guests on the Observation Deck and admire the lights of Ireland’s capital as you set off into the Irish Sea.

Please book your flight to arrive into Dublin prior to 02:00 PM.

Portrush is adjacent to the stunning North Antrim coastline. Here lies the medieval Dunluce Castle ruins. Perched picturesquely at the edge of a rocky outcropping high above the sea, the castle is dramatically surrounded by terrifyingly steep drops, which the early Christians and Vikings would have considered a very important security feature. The castle and surrounding areas have been frequently used for the filming of “Game of Thrones”. Another attraction reached from Portrush is the Giant’s Causeway -40,000 hexagonal basalt columns that descend in a kind of pathway to the sea. Formed over 50 million years ago, visitors have marvelled at its majesty and mystery for centuries, and UNESCO has recognised this site with World Heritage status.

The capital of Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast, Portrush is set on a mile-long peninsula with some of Ireland’s best beaches on either side. Vibrant blue water and golden sands have made this a popular seaside destination since Victorian times with its historic buildings, arcades and amusement parks. One of Ireland’s most famous natural attractions, the dramatic Giant’s Causeway, is a short distance away along the coast.

In the evening, enjoy dinner at one of up to 10 all-inclusive dining experiences on board your Discovery Yacht.

Freechoice:
Spectacular Giant's Causeway: Visit Northern Ireland’s only UNESCO Site. To stroll the Giants Causeway is to voyage back in time, marveling at 40,000 basalt stones dating back millions of years.

Bushmills Distillery: Granted its license in 1608, Old Bushmills Distillery is the world’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery. Enjoy a guided tour, learn the whiskey’s secrets and taste the final product.

Derry's Past & Present tour: Explore Derry, Ireland’s only remaining walled city. Admire historic architecture, visit the museum and be welcomed to Guildhall by the Lord Mayor.

Glenshane County Farm: Visit Glenshane's farm and Friel's Historic Bar, a 5th-generation Irish pub, to learn sheep herding and enjoy a classic Irish Coffee.

Oban, "little bay" in Gaelic, today has a resident population of 8,500 and is the unofficial capital of the West Highlands - the "Gateway to the Isles." The panoramic views of the mountains, lochs and islands which have captivated artists, authors, composers, and poets for centuries are as striking now as they were when Dunollie Castle, a ruined keep which has stood sentinel over the narrow entrance to the sheltered bay for around six hundred years, was the northern outpost of the Dalriadic Scots. It is no surprise to find Oban in the 21st-century remains a magnet for travellers from all over the world. The town's present day popularity owes much to the Victorians, and as early as 1812, when the Comet steamship linked Oban with Glasgow, the town played host to intrepid travellers touring Staffa - the inspiration for Mendelssohn's Hebridean Overture - and Iona - home of Scottish Christianity since St Columba stepped ashore in AD563. Indeed once Oban had the royal seal of approval from Queen Victoria, who called it "one of the finest spots we have seen," the town's destiny as an endearingly enchanting holiday destination was as firmly set as the lava columns of Fingal's Cave in Oban is justifiably known as the “gateway to the Isles.” The town's south pier is the embarkation point for car ferries to Mull, Coll, Tiree, Barra, South Uist, Colonsay, Lismore and Islay. From these islands you can travel further a field to Iona, Staffa and to many of the smaller less well known isles.

Oban, the gateway to the Hebrides, is a charming coastal town on Scotland's West coast. Known as the heart of Argyll and the cradle of Scotland, Oban embodies the elegance and natural grandeur of the Highlands. For those seeking a taste of authentic Scotland, Oban invites you to immerse yourself in its rich heritage and scenic charm. Join one of our curated experiences available to uncover the depth of this enchanting town.

Join fellow guests on the Observation Deck or relax on your private verandah as you cruise through the romantic Sound of Mull this evening. Look for golden eagles, porpoises, seals and otters as you head to the Isle of Skye.

Freechoice:
Arduaine Gardens: Visit the beautiful National Trust for Scotland Gardens of Arduaine, where a unique micro-climate creates rare delights including a wonderful collection of rhododendrons.

Walking Tour: Set out on foot for a guided tour of Oban. Walk up the steep hill to McCaig’s Tower for sweeping views, visit grand St Columba’s Cathedral and explore the bustling town at your leisure.

Inveraray Castle: Take a scenic drive to Inveraray and visit its imposing castle. Set on 16 acres of parkland, this 18th century edifice combines Baroque, Palladian and Gothic architecture.

Discovery:
Enjoy immersive Discovery experiences such as kayaking and zodiac cruising, subject to weather conditions and harbour master approval.

The Isle of Skye ranks near the top of most visitors' priority lists: the romance of Prince Charles Edward Stuart, known as Bonnie Prince Charlie, combined with the misty Cuillin Hills and their proximity to the mainland all contribute to its popularity. Today Skye remains mysterious and mountainous, an island of sunsets that linger brilliantly until late at night and of beautiful, soft mists. Much photographed are the really old crofts, one or two of which are still inhabited, with their thick stone walls and thatch roofs. Orientation on Skye is easy: follow the only roads around the loops on the northern part of the island and enjoy the road running the length of the Sleat Peninsula in southern Skye, taking the loop roads that exit to the north and south as you please. There are some stretches of single-lane road, but none poses a problem.

Admire the spectacular landscapes of the Isle of Skye from your private verandah as your Discovery Yacht approaches Isle of Skye this morning.

Skye’s capital is an attractive fishing port with brightly painted houses around a natural harbour. The ancestral stronghold of the famed Clan MacLeod, the beautiful Isle of Raasay sits just offshore and boasts the extinct volcano of Mt Dun Caan, which rises 443 metres high. Perhaps choose to see Skye’s jagged mountains and cliff faces from above by adding a helicopter^ excursion.

Freechoice:
Loch Portree Hike: Discover the north side of Portree Bay then climb a steep zig-zag path for stunning views, finishing with refreshments at the Cuillin Hills Hotel.

Dunvegan Castle & The Cuillin: Visit the west coast of Skye and Dunvegan Castle, a Hebridean stronghold filled with priceless heirlooms from the Chiefs of MacLeod.

Northern Scenic Drive: Explore the island’s north, learning its history, geography and legends. See tumbling waterfalls, historic crofting towns and the Skye Museum of Island Life.

Eilean Donan Castle: Visit Eilean Donan, a 13th century castle to learn about its rich history and clansmen while admiring stunning views.

Tour description Stornoway, Scotland The Isle of Lewis and Harris is the northernmost and largest of the Outer Hebrides-the Western Isles in common parlance. The island's only major town, Stornoway, is on a nearly landlocked harbor on the east coast of Lewis. It's the port capital for the Outer Hebrides and the island's cultural center, such that it is. Stornoway has an increasing number of good restaurants. Lewis has some fine historic attractions, including the Calanais Standing Stones-a truly magical place. The Uists are known for their rare, plentiful wildlife. Stornoway. Besides being the island's main entry point for ferries, Stornoway is also Lewis's main arts center. You'll find some good restaurants in town if you want to have lunch off the ship. The town can be explored by bicycle if you are so inclined. Local rental shops can give you advice on where to ride, including a route to Tolsta that takes in five stunning beaches before reaching the edge of moorland. An Lanntair Arts Centre. The fabulous An Lanntair Arts Centre has exhibitions of contemporary and traditional art, as well as a cinema, a gift shop, and a restaurant serving international and Scottish fare. There are frequent traditional musical and theatrical events in the impressive auditorium. Kenneth St.. Black House. In the small community of Arnol, the Black House is a well-preserved example of an increasingly rare type of traditional Hebridean home. Once common throughout the islands-even into the 1950s-these dwellings were built without mortar and thatched on a timber framework without eaves. Other characteristic features include an open central peat hearth and the absence of a chimney-hence the soot and the designation black. On display inside are many of the house's original furnishings. To reach Arnol from Port of Ness, head south on the A857 and pick up the A858 at Barvas. Off A858, 21 mi southwest of Port of Ness. Admission charged. Calanais Standing Stones. These impressive stones are actually part of a cluster of several different archaeological sites in this area. Probably positioned in several stages between 3000 BC and 1500 BC, the grouping consists of an avenue of 19 monoliths extending northward from a circle of 13 stones, with other rows leading south, east, and west. Ruins of a cairn sit within the circle on the east side. Researchers believe they may have been used for astronomical observations, but you can create your own explanations. The visitor center has an exhibit on the stones, a gift shop, and a tearoom. On an unmarked road off A858. Admission charged. Dun Carloway. One of the best-preserved Iron Age brochs (circular stone towers) in Scotland, Dun Carloway dominates the scattered community of Carloway. The mysterious tower was probably built around 2,000 years ago as protection against seaborne raiders. The Dun Broch Centre explains more about the broch and its setting. Off A857. Gearrannan. Up a side road north from Carloway, Gearrannan is an old black-house village that has been brought back to life with a museum screening excellent short films on peat cutting and weaving. For a unique experience, groups can rent the restored houses. Leverburgh. At Leverburgh you can take the ferry to North Uist. Nearby Northton has several attractions; St. Clement's Church at Rodel is particularly worth a visit. MacGillivray Centre. Located in a round building overlooking the bay, the MacGillivray Centre gives insight into the life and work of William MacGillivray (1796-1852), a noted naturalist with strong links to Harris. MacGillivray authored the five-volume History of British Birds. This is a great location for a picnic (there are tables for just such a purpose). A walk to a ruined church starts at the parking lot. A859, Northton. Seallam! Visitor Centre and Co Leis Thu? Genealogical Research Centre. The center is where you can trace your Western Isles ancestry. Photographs and interpretive signs describe the history of Harris and its people. The owners organize guided walks and cultural evenings weekly between May and September. Off A859, Northton. Admission charged. St. Clement's Church. At the southernmost point of Harris is the community of Rodel, where you can find St. Clement's Church, a cruciform church standing on a hillock. This is the most impressive pre-Reformation church in the Outer Hebrides; it was built around 1500 and contains the magnificently sculptured tomb (1528) of the church's builder, Alasdair Crotach, MacLeod chief of Dunvegan Castle. Rodel is 3 mi south of Leverburgh and 21 mi south of Tarbert. A859, Rodel. Port of Ness. The stark, windswept community of Port of Ness, 30 mi north of Stornoway, cradles a small harbor squeezed in among the rocks. Butt of Lewis Lighthouse. At the northernmost point of Lewis stands the Butt of Lewis Lighthouse, designed by David and Thomas Stevenson (of the prominent engineering family whose best-known member was not an engineer at all, but the novelist Robert Louis Stevenson). The structure was first lighted in 1862. The adjacent cliffs provide a good vantage point for viewing seabirds, whales, and porpoises. The lighthouse is northwest of Port of Ness along the B8014. Shopping Harris tweed is available at many outlets on the islands, including some of the weavers' homes; keep an eye out for signs directing you to weavers' workshops. Harris Tweed Artisans Cooperative. The Harris Tweed Artisans Cooperative sells stylish and quirky hand-crafted tweed clothing, hats, accessories, all made by artists belonging to the cooperative. 40 Point St., Stornoway. Borgh Pottery. At Borgh Pottery, open from Monday to Saturday 9:30 to 6, you can buy attractive hand-thrown studio pottery made on the premises, including lamps, vases, mugs, and dishes. Fivepenny House, A857, Borve.

The largest town in the Outer Hebrides, Stornoway began as a Viking settlement in the 9th century. Today, it’s home to around 6,000 people with a unique Gaelic culture. Delve into Stornaway’s fascinating history and unusual landscape with your expert historians and geologists at an engaging lecture in the state-of-the-art theatre or enjoy a Discovery excursion to experience it first-hand.

As we set sail this afternoon, take a seat in the Observation Lounge and sip specialty teas and aromatic illy coffee or choose a cocktail with a view in one of the cabanas near the Sky Bar.

Freechoice:
Isle of Harris Distillery: Visit Tarbert’s Harris Distillery for gin and whiskey tastings. Tour the production room and blending hall.

Lews Castle Walk: Walk along Stornoway’s seafront to Lews Castle, visit the Museum for the Hebrides and explore the castle.

Scenic Harris: Explore the southern Isle of Harris and its capital Tarbert. Visit spectacular Horgabost beach with views of Taransay Island.

Scenic Isle of Lewis: Begin your journey on the Isle of Lewis at the charming Port of Ness, home to rich seafaring heritage and the Harbour View Gallery's local artwork. Continue to the legendary St. Moluag’s Church and the iconic Butt of Lewis Lighthouse, renowned for its stunning views and record-breaking winds.

Gearrannan Blackhouse Village & Dun Carloway Broch: Discover the ancient Dun Carloway Broch, a striking Pictish structure showcasing Iron Age life and power. Then visit Gearrannan Blackhouse Village, a reconstructed settlement offering a glimpse into traditional island living, set against the rugged Atlantic coast.

Named after Thor, the Norse god of weather, strength, and growth, Tórshavn is one of the world’s smallest capital cities in one of Europe’s least travelled destinations. Wander down cobbled alleyways between colourful buildings with grassy roofs and imagine life in Viking times.

Tonight, you may prefer dinner on your private verandah. Alternatively, raise a glass of Champagne before an extraordinary French meal paired with world-class wines at Lumière.

Freechoice:
Tórshavn the capital: Take a guided walk of Tinganes Old Town and explore the National Museum – a perfect introduction to the city of Tórshavn.

Hiking in Mountains: Hike above Kaldbak fjord, ascending 280m for stunning views of Streymoy sill and Vágar.

Coastal Villages: Visit Kollafjørður’s turf-roofed church, then tour Saksun village and Dúvugarðar farm museum, offering insights into traditional Faroese life.

Countryside of Eysturoy: Tour sheep farms, wool producers, the Gøta village, cross the Atlantic bridge and enjoy the mountain views.

Vestmanna Sea Cliffs: Sail through bird cliffs, gorges, and grottoes near Vestmanna, witnessing dramatic landscapes and wildlife.

Discovery:
Enjoy immersive Discovery experiences such as kayaking and zodiac cruising, subject to weather conditions and harbour master approval.

Spend the morning exploring the village of Miðvágur on Vágar Island. Another former Viking settlement, the town is home to around 1,100 people today. It’s the perfect gateway to the Faroe Islands' breathtaking wonders, including the iconic Lake Sørvágsvatn—famously known as the "floating lake" for its mesmerizing illusion of hovering above sea level.

In the afternoon, you’ll cruise around Mykines Island, where most of the Faroe Islands’ 500,000-strong puffin population nests. Use your in-suite binoculars or the Swarovski telescopes on the Observation Lounge and Deck to take a closer look. 

Your Discovery Team will offer insights and answer any questions about the puffins and their adorable chicks you spot.

Freechoice:
Floating Lake Hike: Hike above Miðvágur to Leitisvatn, the "floating lake," and Trælanípan cliff for stunning mountain, ocean, and lake views.

Island of Vágar: Visit Sandavágur’s church, then tour the villages of Bøur and Gásadalur. Enjoy refreshments in a historic warehouse and see Múlafossur waterfall cascading into the sea.

Vágar Sea Cliffs: Sail from Sørvágur, passing salmon farms, Bøur village, and Tindhólmur islet. Cruise past the Drangarnir sea stacks and the iconic Múlafossur waterfall for breathtaking views.

Seyðisfjörður, a beautiful 19th-century Norwegian village on the east coast of Iceland, is regarded by many as one of Iceland's most picturesque towns, not only due to its impressive environment, but also because nowhere in Iceland has a community of old wooden buildings been preserved so well as here. Poet Matthías Johannessen called Seyðisfjörður a 'pearl enclosed in a shell'. The community owes its origins to foreign merchants, mainly Danes, who started trading in the fjord in the mid-19th century. But the crucial factor in the evolution of the village was the establishment of the Icelandic herring fishery by Norwegians in 1870-1900. The Norwegians built up a number of herring-fishing facilities, and in a matter of years the little community grew into a boom town. Today, about 800 people live in Seyðisfjörður. The local economy has long been based on the fisheries, while light industry also flourishes. Tourism is playing a growing role, as the picturesque town in its spectacular surroundings attracts more and more visitors. The car/passenger ferry Norrøna, which plies between continental Europe and Iceland every summer, docks at Seyðisfjörður every Thursday. Seyðisfjörður has been a cosmopolitan community from its foundation, and the ferry service has contributed to ensuring that it remains so.

Seyðisfjörður, a beautiful 19th-century Norwegian village on the east coast of Iceland, is regarded by many as one of Iceland's most picturesque towns, not only due to its impressive environment, but also because nowhere in Iceland has a community of old wooden buildings been preserved so well as here. Poet Matthías Johannessen called Seyðisfjörður a 'pearl enclosed in a shell'. The community owes its origins to foreign merchants, mainly Danes, who started trading in the fjord in the mid-19th century. But the crucial factor in the evolution of the village was the establishment of the Icelandic herring fishery by Norwegians in 1870-1900. The Norwegians built up a number of herring-fishing facilities, and in a matter of years the little community grew into a boom town. Today, about 800 people live in Seyðisfjörður. The local economy has long been based on the fisheries, while light industry also flourishes. Tourism is playing a growing role, as the picturesque town in its spectacular surroundings attracts more and more visitors. The car/passenger ferry Norrøna, which plies between continental Europe and Iceland every summer, docks at Seyðisfjörður every Thursday. Seyðisfjörður has been a cosmopolitan community from its foundation, and the ferry service has contributed to ensuring that it remains so.

In a country with an abundance of natural drama, Seyðisfjörður may steal the show. Set at the mouth of a beautiful fjord, this is East Iceland’s heart of culture, heritage and hospitality – and then there’s the architecture. The centre of town is known for 19th-century timber houses perched on the side of the lagoon, built by fisherfolk when the region was booming. There’s plenty of culture to go with the small-town country charm, wildlife including reindeer and porpoises, drawn by the verdant setting of cascading waterfalls and snow-capped mountains.

Freechoice:
Nature walk Skalanes: Drive to Þórarinsstaðir to visit an archaeological site, then continue through a scenic valley to Skálanes Nature and Heritage Centre.

Rib Boat Tour: Explore Seyðisfjörður by Rib boat, listening to local stories and watching for seals, birds, and whales.

Discovery:
Enjoy immersive Discovery experiences such as kayaking and zodiac cruising, subject to weather conditions and harbour master approval.

This morning, you can walk across the Arctic Circle on Grimsey Island, about 40km off the north coast of Iceland. This small island only has around 100 people living in a village by the harbour and is a highlight for bird watchers, with around a million seabirds nesting in the island’s cliffs. Use the Swarovski telescopes on the Observation Lounge and Deck to take a closer look at the puffins, razorbills, black guillemot and other cliff nesting birds.

While on board, relax and rejuvenate with a treatment# in the Senses Spa, where you can enjoy infrared saunas, Gessi chromo-therapy showerheads and signature thermal lounges before we arrive in Akureyri for your overnight stay.

Freechoice:
Guided Walk: Discover Grimsey, Iceland's northernmost inhabited island, covering just 5.3 km², easily explored on foot.

Passenger Train: Discover Grimsey Island aboard a petite train looping around the lighthouse, village and Arctic Circle Monument, offering a unique glimpse into island life.

Discovery:
Enjoy immersive Discovery experiences such as kayaking and zodiac cruising, subject to weather conditions and harbour master approval.

Akureyri, called the Capital of the North is the second largest urban area in Iceland, and a lively one at that. Hemmed by the 60-km (37-mile) long Eyjafjörður, Akureyri is sheltered from the ocean winds and embraced by mountains on three sides. Late 19th-century wooden houses impart a sense of history, and the twin spires of a modern Lutheran church rising on a green hill near the waterfront, provide a focal point. To the south of Akureyri is the pyramid-shape rhyolite mountain Súlur. Beyond it is Kerling, the highest peak in Eyjafjörður District.

Akureyri, called the Capital of the North is the second largest urban area in Iceland, and a lively one at that. Hemmed by the 60-km (37-mile) long Eyjafjörður, Akureyri is sheltered from the ocean winds and embraced by mountains on three sides. Late 19th-century wooden houses impart a sense of history, and the twin spires of a modern Lutheran church rising on a green hill near the waterfront, provide a focal point. To the south of Akureyri is the pyramid-shape rhyolite mountain Súlur. Beyond it is Kerling, the highest peak in Eyjafjörður District.

Iceland’s ‘capital of the North’ is the country’s second largest settlement after Reykjavik, but still feels like a friendly small town. Akureyri features colourful homes set on green hills at the base of a volcanic mountain chain. Though it sits just 60km below the Arctic Circle, the climate is pleasantly mild, and the pretty waterfront is a busy port and fishing hub. See the striking Akureyri Church and stroll through one of the world’s most northerly botanic gardens.

Tonight, perhaps indulge in a world-class dining experience at Koko’s Asian Fusion. Enjoy contemporary Asian cuisine in a vibrant ambience.

Freechoice:
Leisurely Akureiri & Godafoss Waterfall: Visit Godafoss, the "Waterfall of the Gods", enjoy a Akureiri city tour and a visit to the Botanical Gardens.

Whale Watching Akureyri:  Embark on a whale-watching adventure to spot Minke, Fin, and Humpback whales.

Mountain Pass to Mountain Top: Explore the peaceful Valley of the Geese on a breathtaking hike through pristine mountain terrain, rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Eyjafjörður at the summit of Ystuvíkurfjall.

Panoramic City and & Forest Lagoon:  Enjoy a city overview, a relax at the Forest Lagoon, Iceland’s newest geothermal spa.

Jewels of the North: Visit Godafoss, Lake Myvatn, Dimmuborgir lava fields, and Namaskard geothermal fields on this full-day tour of Iceland’s natural wonders.

Two colossal terraces of sheer rock stand either side of this extraordinarily located town - which rides a jutting spit onto an immensity of black fjord water. Surprisingly, considering the remoteness of its location and its compact size, Isafjordur is a modern and lively place to visit, offering a great choice of cafes and delicious restaurants – which are well stocked to impress visitors. The town is a perfectly located base for adventures amongst Iceland's fantastic wilderness - with skiing, hiking and water-sports popular pursuits among visitors.

Isafjördur is the gateway to the Westfjords region on Iceland’s northernmost peninsula. Set on the Skutulsfjörður Fjord, surrounded by mountains and the sea, it has been an important fishing and trading centre for more than 500 years. The well-preserved Old Town is filled with colourful historic buildings set on the edge of the harbour and makes for a picturesque stroll.

The surrounding Westfjords area abounds in natural wonders, with waterfalls, hiking trails, and jagged cliffs. Isafjordur offers vast, uncharted spaces for relaxation and Nordic stillness, making it a popular destination for travellers seeking a peaceful escape.

Freechoice:
Tastes of Isafjordur walking tour: On this city walking tour, visit local food producers to taste their dairy products, dried fish, chocolate and beer.

Valagil Hike: Drive to Álftafjörður for a moderate hike towards Valagil, a spectacular ravine with waterfalls.

History at Hesteyri - Enjoy the scenery and history of abandoned Hesteyri. Feel the eerie atmosphere and look for Arctic foxes, seals and whales.

Life & Culture Tour: Explore the town and learn about the historic struggle to survive in the Westfjords.

Discovery:
Enjoy immersive Discovery experiences such as kayaking and zodiac cruising, subject to weather conditions and harbour master approval. 

Sprawling Reykjavík, the nation's nerve center and government seat, is home to half the island's population. On a bay overlooked by proud Mt. Esja (pronounced eh-shyuh), with its ever-changing hues, Reykjavík presents a colorful sight, its concrete houses painted in light colors and topped by vibrant red, blue, and green roofs. In contrast to the almost treeless countryside, Reykjavík has many tall, native birches, rowans, and willows, as well as imported aspen, pines, and spruces.Reykjavík's name comes from the Icelandic words for smoke, reykur, and bay, vík. In AD 874, Norseman Ingólfur Arnarson saw Iceland rising out of the misty sea and came ashore at a bay eerily shrouded with plumes of steam from nearby hot springs. Today most of the houses in Reykjavík are heated by near-boiling water from the hot springs. Natural heating avoids air pollution; there's no smoke around. You may notice, however, that the hot water brings a slight sulfur smell to the bathroom.Prices are easily on a par with other major European cities. A practical option is to purchase a Reykjavík City Card at the Tourist Information Center or at the Reykjavík Youth Hostel. This card permits unlimited bus usage and admission to any of the city's seven pools, the Family Park and Zoo, and city museums. The cards are valid for one (ISK 3,300), two (ISK 4,400), or three days (ISK 4,900), and they pay for themselves after three or four uses a day. Even lacking the City Card, paying admission (ISK 500, or ISK 250 for seniors and people with disabilities) to one of the city art museums (Hafnarhús, Kjarvalsstaðir, or Ásmundarsafn) gets you free same-day admission to the other two.

Your voyage ends this morning back in Reykjavík, Iceland’s quirky and creative capital. Savour one last breakfast in your suite before saying goodbye to your new friends and the crew who shared this special voyage with you. You'll disembark after breakfast and be transferred to the airport.

Please book your flight to depart out of Reykjavik after 12:00 PM.

^Flights on board our two helicopters and submersible experiences are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather, ice and tidal conditions. Helicopter is not in operation in France and the UK/Scotland. Submersible is not in operation in France and Spain. #Spa treatments at additional cost. +All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. Specialty restaurants require a reservation, enquire on board.

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the voyage will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.