Archive for the ‘Iceland’ Category

Norway’s Top 7 Most Beautiful Fjords

Posted in Iceland, Norway | by admin
April 8th, 2010

The beautiful coastline of Western Norway features breathtaking fjords offering dazzling views of unsurpassed natural beauty. These coastlines have changed little since the days of the great viking sailors, and many remnants of the regions’ history can be glimpsed along the shorelines. Each fjord has its own personality and they have been given special nicknames.

Sognefjord - King of the Fjords

Sognefjord is Norway’s longest and deepest fjord, extending more than 250 kilometers inland to the foot of the Jotunheimen Mountains.

Sognefjord, Norwaycredit

A boat trip along this dramatic channel leads to the charming city of Flåm snuggled into the mountain valley. From there you can hop on the Flåm railway and tour the countryside.

Lysefjord - Light Fjord

Described by Victor Hugo as one of the most terrifying ocean reefs in his book “Toilers of the Sea,” Lysefjordb’s waters plunge to 400 meters below the square topped Preikestolen cliff, known as Pulpit Rock.

Lysefjord - Light Fjordcredit

Day hikes to the cliff top during the summer reward travelers with stunning views of this narrow winding waterway.

Vindafjord - Turning Fjord

In the northern section of the Norway coast is the enchanting Vindafjord, named for the dramatic turn in this narrow fjord at Dragneset.

Vindafjordcredit

The winding fjord is dotted with charming hamlets but remains an important center of trade.

Hardangerfjord - The Fjord of Lovers

Known for its beautiful romantic views, the ever changing sunlight across this enchanting fjord adds a magic touch to the area known as “the garden of Norway” where charming farms have beautiful orhards.

Hardangerfjord Norwaycredit

Hardangerfjord is the the second largest fjiord in Norway. Considered the ‘Gateway to the Fjords’ and is a about a 2 hour trip from the city of Bergen.

Nærøyfjord - God of the Sea

Nærøyfjord is officially named for from the norse god ‘Njord’, but the name also refers to the extreme narrowness of its waterways. There are spectacular views for hikers on the Rimstigen trail.

Nærøyfjordcredit

In 2005, Nærøyfjord became part of UNESCO’s World Heritage Tour, together with neighboring Geirangerfjord.

Geirangerfjord - Venice of the North

Narrow cliffs and 1,700 meter high snow-capped mountains are reflected in the waters of Geirangerfjord, giving an appearance of a city floating under the sea.

Geirangerfjord by Gerald Brimacombecredit

On either side are breathtakingly high waterfalls with names like the Bridal Veil and the Seven Sisters. The southernmost fjord on Norway’s western shore, it is located 120 km from Bergen.

To see more about Norway holidays and tours, visit our website’s Norway section here: http://www.baltictravelcompany.com/fu/co20/Norway-holidays

Exploring Iceland in the Summer: 5 of The Best Activities

Posted in Holiday Tips, Iceland | by admin
March 29th, 2010

See Reykjavik

Reykjavikcredit

No visit to Iceland is complete without a visit to the northernmost capital city in the world. This dynamic city is full of cultural attractions. Reykjavik during the summer experiences also constant daylight, so that you can enjoy the city’s energetic nightlife while Iceland is still bathed in sun.

During the summer, you should also take advantage of your opportunity to participate in some of Iceland’s outdoor activities. Leaving all of Reykjavik’s attractions can be difficult, so make sure that you give yourself plenty of time to explore this unique city before you leave to experience some of Iceland’s other amazing attractions.

Relax In A Bath

Sundlauger Reykjavikurcredit

Once you have your fill of Reykjavik’s museums, shopping, and dining, refresh and unwind at the volcanically heated swimming facility located in the city, known locally as Sundlaugar Reykjavíkur. For an even more unique experience, you should visit the Blue Lagoon. This man made lagoon is now a famous spa, and it is Iceland’s most popular tourist attraction. The mineral waters of the Blue Lagoon are known for being beneficial to the health of bathers.

Climb To The Top Of A Mountain

Sunset behind Mount Esjacredit

Mount Esja is located right outside the city of Reykjavik. The climb to the summit is relatively easy, and offers stunning views. If you are an experienced hiker and would like more of a challenging climb, you can choose to follow an expert path. Along the way you will be able to see some of Iceland’s beautiful summer flora. On your hike, expect to meet many native Icelanders. The hike to the top of Mount Esja is particularly popular with Reykjavik locals.

Watch The Whales


 Humpback Whalecredit

Whale watching excursions allow you to see some of the majestic creatures that call the waters of Iceland home. Whale watching tours are very popular with locals and visitors alike. There are many tour boats that depart from the Reykjavik area, but no matter where you stay in Iceland, most coastal cities offer whale watching opportunities.

Visit a National Park

Jökulsárlón Lagooncredit

Iceland’s extraordinary natural resources can be best appreciated by visiting one of the country’s national parks. Within the parks you can hike, camp, and fully take in the beauty and grandeur of the Icelandic landscape. Vatnajökull National Park is the largest national park in Europe, and the park makes up 11% of Iceland. This park is home to both glaciers and volcanoes. Within this park you will be able to witness why Iceland is often known as the island of fire and ice.

The 10 Greatest Waterfalls of Iceland

Posted in Iceland | by admin
September 16th, 2009

#1- Dettifoss Waterfall

01-dettifoss by you. credit

Located in Northeast Iceland’s Jokulsargljufur National Park, Dettifoss is Europe’s most powerful waterfall, with an average flow of over 7,000 cubic feet per second. The massive waterfall is 144 feet high and an impressive 328 feet wide.

#2- Glymur Waterfall

02-glymur by you.
credit

The highest waterfall in Iceland, Glymur is 643 feet tall. Located in the far east end of Hvalfjordour, or Whale Fjord, due to the height and location of Glymur, one cannot view the entirety of the falls from one location.

#3- Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

03-seljandsfoss by you. credit

Located between Selfoss and Skogafoss (#5), the 200 foot Seljalandsfoss is connected to the river Seljalandsa. One of the most picturesque waterfalls in Iceland, Seljalandsfoss also offers some of the best tourism as a foot path travels directly behind the falls, allowing tourists to view the waterfall from the backside without getting wet.

#4- Gooafoss Waterfall

04-gooafoss by you. credit

The name means “waterfall of the gods.” Though one may think the name derives from the beauty and immensity of this waterfall, it actually dates back to about the year 1000. According to legend, when Christianity was declared the official religion of Iceland, Porgeirr Ljosvetningagooi threw statues of Norse gods into the falls.

#5- Skogafoss Waterfall

05-skogafoss by you.
credit

Southern Iceland boasts the beautiful and massive Skogafoss. At 82 feet wide and nearly 200 feet tall, Skogafoss is one Iceland’s largest falls. A local legend states that Prasi Porolfsson, the first Viking who settled in the area, hid a treasure behind the waterfall that has been glimpsed but has yet to be found. The legend is enhanced by the fact that, due to the fall’s spray, a single or double rainbow appears before it on most sunny days.

#6- Svartifoss Waterfall

06-Svartifoss by you. credit

Known as “Black Falls,” Svartifoss is flanked by dark lava columns. The columns formed inside of a slow cooling lava flow, allowing for this natural, unique beauty. Svartifoss is within Iceland’s Skaftafell National Park.

#7- Ofaerufoss Waterfall

07-ofaerufoss by you. credit

Like Barnafoss (#10), a natural bridge once ran the length of the falls of Ofaerufoss. Until the bridge’s collapse in 1993 due to an earthquake, visitors could walk very near the waterfall, gaining a spectacular view. The falls are just as spectacular today. Ofaerufoss is located in Iceland’s Eldgja chasm.

#8- Haifoss Waterfall

08-haifoss by you. credit

Southern Iceland’s Fossa river gives us Haifoss, Iceland’s second highest waterfall at about 400 feet tall. Located in the Thjorsardalur valley, Haifoss shares a gorge with the waterfall Granni. Haifoss was named in the 19th century by Dr. Helgi Petursson.

#9- Gullfoss Waterfall

09-gullfoss by you. credit

One of the country’s most famous tourist attractions, Gullfoss is located in the southwest, in Iceland’s Golden Circle. Making the canyon of the Hvita river its home, Gullfoss rushes at a rate of about 5,000 cubic feet per second. Above the waterfall exists a stone memorial to Sigriour Tomasdottier, who is rumored to have saved the falls from industrialization.

#10- Barnafoss Waterfall

10-barnafoss by you. credit

Western Iceland’s Barnafoss is known not only for its beauty but also its folklore. Known as “the children’s waterfall,” the legend of Barnafoss comes from the tale of two boys falling from the natural bridge that once spanned the falls. The mother was so distraught that she put a spell on the bridge, causing it collapse.

10 Things You Should Take with You When Travelling to Iceland

Posted in Iceland | by admin
September 14th, 2009

Iceland is one of the most unique travelling experiences, particularly in the Northern Hemisphere. As with any trip, pack your camera, of course, and the most comfortable shoes you own, so you can see it all and remember it later. You’ll need a few more things to make your trip even more enjoyable and memorable.

1. Comfortable Clothing

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1421/1261872334_f595b44835.jpg
credit

The average temperature in the country’s capital of Reykjavik is 51 degrees F. in July and about 32 degrees F. in January. Bring gloves, thick socks and a warm coat for cold weather. A light jacket and will do in mild weather.

2. Icelandic Dictionary

Education by gunnisal.
credit

Although many people in Iceland speak English and Danish regularly, plus French and German as taught in school, be prepared to run into those who only speak the native Icelandic language in shops, restaurants or on the street.

3. Binoculars

Binoculars portrait (dscn4659_mod_vign_sm) by gerlos.
credit

If you don’t own a set, buy or borrow them so you don’t miss out on some of the most wondrous sights in the world. They’ll give you a great close-up view of volcanoes, fjords, geysers, whales, seals, waterfalls and an amazing skyline. Binoculars also come in handy for bird watching and concerts.

4. Rain Coat

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3254/2980337099_84cf3c7698.jpg
credit

Weather can be stormy any time of year, so bring along your gear and also be prepared for water splashing on whale watching, fishing and whitewater rafting trips.

5. Fishing Pole

Fishing Rod by yankoyank.
credit

Be prepared for lake, stream or ice fishing for salmon or trout, depending on the time of year. Reserve salmon fishing permits long before you come, or trout permits when you arrive.

6. Golf Clubs

Wilson 4300 Vintage Wood Golf Clubs (3) by tenyobooks.
credit

Iceland has more than 50 golf courses available May until September. While some of them offer club rentals, if you’re emotionally attached to your nine-iron, you’d better bring it along. Try your hand golfing at 3 a.m. in June, just for the fun of it, when the midnight sun is out and 24-hour golf is on the agenda.

7. Hiking Boots

Hiking Boot by fullerenium.
credit

With beautiful terrain to explore, plan at least one day for hiking. Hire a guide or go on your own. Sturdy, comfortable shoes are a must-have for an enjoyable outing.

8. Travel Sickness Tablets

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1336/1031357362_7387988c7b.jpg
credit

If air or sea travel makes you queasy, pack some in your carry-on luggage. Once you arrive, glacier tours can be a fun adventure, and many different boating activities abound. If you’re prone to motion sickness, come prepared so you don’t miss out on the fun.

9. Bathing Suit

The rubber bathing suit comes out of storage by jc5083.
credit

Hot outdoor pools are the rage year round, so don’t forget to pack your favorite swimwear. While doing laps is popular, “hot pots” are even more so, with water between 90 and 110 degrees F. to sit and relax in with new friends.

10. Sunscreen

U-V-ME by `◄ccdoh1►.
credit

Any amount of time spent in the sun requires protection, as with anywhere, but particularly in Iceland where there are so many outdoor activities and the sun is strong. Skiing, horseback riding, swimming and ferry rides are just a few ways to get burned if you’re not careful.