Just when you think things can’t get any more beautiful, varied or unworldly – one lands in Akureyri, the capital and largest city of Northern Iceland! And – trust me – you will love it – – –

Hop in a car and head east and you will see the most diverse scenery ever within a two hour drive. From beautiful green to lava fields to the moon to booming waterfalls.

First up – those green mounds that don’t look anything like volcanic craters. In and surrounding Lake Myvatn is the Natural Monument of Skutustaoagigar (everything in Iceland is a mouthful!), because of the pseudo-craters found here. When the volcanoes in the area exploded and the lava flowed to the lake, steam explosions occurred when the burning lava encountered the lake or wetlands. These explosions were underground, however, causing the ground to swell creating the small mounds or hills. The land was so green with no lava beds in sight. In fact, grass/hay was grown and cut for feed during those long winter months.

A stop a Skutustaoagigar, on the banks of Lake Myvatn, will also provide a regional lunch of delicious grilled arctic char with potatoes, salad and bread. One can also get supplies of local brewed beer. Don”t miss it!

After fortification, drive another 30 minutes to Dimmuborgir and its “black castles”. These “castles” are formed when lava spills over a water filled depression heating the water to create steam which forces its way up through the lava taking the lava with it up into a channel above ground. This lava above ground forms into very interesting shapes – like trolls!!!

Drive another 30 minutes to Namaskard Sulfataras where the earth opens up. The boiling hot sulphur pools and steam vents will make you think perhaps there is a hell down there somewhere?!?!

After these experiences, head back west toward Akureyri and stop at the waterfall of the Gods – Godafoss! A welcome sight after going to the ends of the earth.

A fabulous day of varied sights and getting to know the wonderful island called Iceland.

Did you notice all the blue sky?!?! This was a perfect day – 70+ degrees, NO wind and NO rain. The tour guide said they get about 5 days like this day ALL year – and it was ours today;-)

This particular cruise day ended with a surprise! Another day would be spent here as the next port – a tender port – would be too difficult to navigate. This proved to be quite fortuitous for these travelers, as G lost a tooth crown just a few days out and really needed to find a dentist. This was the perfect opportunity and all ended well. It also provided the chance to wander the streets of the adorable little town – second in size in Iceland to Reykjavik. Just in case you are in town – Berlin is a quaint little cafe for lunch and great hot chocolate and espresso!

Just as always – too much to see and not enough time. So, must say goodby to Akureyri and head back west and south.

Many faces of Iceland can be explored from Akureyri – a wonderful, friendly, little town. There are lots of Inns to accommodate at Myvatn Lake and lots of campers and campgrounds, if so inclined. Or – a cruise works too.

E & G – really wowed by the sights seen the last few days! Can’t wait for more;-)