We’re continuing our destination of the week blog feature with a look at another intriguing holiday spot you really need to be adding to your travel hit list. This time the focus is on the North of Iceland; Akureyri. Read on to find out more information about this fascinating destination...
Overview
Nestled away in the North of Iceland is Akureyri, the second-largest city that’s considered the capital of the North. It’s a perfect base for those who are wanting to explore the beauty of the North and escape to the off beaten tracks.
The list of things to do in Iceland is endless, with the majority of travellers hitting Reykjavik without the knowledge of the North’s understated alternatives! Replicate the tranquillity and avoid the crowds of the Blue Lagoon at Mývatn Nature Baths, or increase your chances of witnessing the natural phenomenon of the Northern Lights by heading up North where there the nights are longer with less light pollution.
Top Things To See & Do
Grímsey Island: A small island considered the ‘gem of the Arctic Circle’ and the Northernmost settlement. With an area of 5.3 km2, the small island has a colourful history. It’s home to over 1,000,000 seabirds, but less than 100 inhabitants!
Laufas Turf Homes: Built-in 1865, the beautifully preserved small turf houses give a great insight into what would have been a typical Icelandic home back in the 19th century.
Dimmuborgir: The stunning lava field is a display of dramatic structures formed from a volcano eruption that’s home to Icelandic folklore characters Dimmuborgir and Myvatn. The location is more recently known for its appearance in the third season of Game of Thrones as a camp base for the ‘Wildlings’.
Hlidarfjall: The neighbouring town of Hlidarfjall is the site of one of two ski resorts in Iceland, with a great selection of runs for both beginners and intermediate skiers.
Useful Things To Know
Food And Drink
Hákarl: A national dish of Iceland, which compromises of cured shark. Although sold in the majority of supermarkets, the meat is traditionally eaten at the midwinter festival Þorrablót.
Skyr: The Icelandic yogurt is slightly more sour, but virtually fat free and high in protein. The product has become so popular that it’s now widely available in the UK and in other European countries.
Icelandic Hotdogs: Found on every high street, Iceland has it’s own unique recipe, using lamb instead of beef or pork. Before mustard was imported, Skyr was traditionally used as a topping!
Fun Facts
What The Bloggers Think?
Stephanie from The Wanderlost Way: “We enjoyed our time everywhere in Iceland—it’s basically impossible to have a bad time in this one-of-a-kind country—but Akureyri was by far our favorite place."
Janet from Planet Janet Travels: Akureyri is a vibrant town filled with cute cafes, quality restaurants and nice shops, along with good lodging choices."
Have you been to Akureyri? Tweet @icelollyholiday and let us know if it's on your travel bucket list!
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