Akureyri, Iceland day 2

The plan for today was to visit the artic circle -Grinsey island, but when we went to book for this trip the boat was full.  So plan B was put in place.  After breakfast and some chores like doing some washing and finishing writing and posting yesterday’s blog, we decided to go for a walk – and hour or so- along the shore of the fjord next to our accommodation.  Once again great scenery.

Afterwards, we decided to travel to the north of Akureyri, the Tröllaskagi peninsula which is located between two fjords around this area. Our first stop was the area known as Holar, which was an important religious centre since the 12C, and also where Iceland’s first printing press was founded in 1530.  The last catholic bishop was executed after the reformation and is buried in the church’s tower.

Then we went to Hofsos for a late lunch and also a dip in the local seaside hot pool, with beautiful views.

Last stop was at Siglufjordur, a remotely located fishing town that during the herring boom in early 20th century used to be the most prosperous fishing town in Iceland. This pretty harbour town is high on the north coast of Iceland, on the artic sea.

On the way back to Akureyri we travelled via a number of mountain tunnels, including two, which were single lane. As we entered the first one, we could see the headlights of a big truck coming in our direction. I quickly reversed our car.  Later we discovered that we had right of way, and every few hundred meters there are areas where vehicles pull to the side of the tunnel, so that other vehicles can get through.  We arrived back at our accommodation around 7.40 pm.

The place where we are staying – Guesthouse Petursborg – is run by a couple, the wife is Swiss and looks after the accommodation side of the business, whilst the Icelandic husband  runs tours in the area. They have 3 beautiful Icelandic horses on their property, which their daughters and her friends ride on a regular basis.

A lot of great highlights today. See some more photos from today’s journey here: https://adobe.ly/2NmR21J

Another great day in Iceland.