Djupivogur Culture: A Walking Tour
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Port
Djupivogur, Iceland
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$129.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 2 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Join your local guide and set out from Djúpivogur's old harbor on this tour that introduces you to the fascinating cultural aspect of this tiny town.
Head to Audun's Stone & Mineral Museum. Audun -- a local man -- used to collect rocks and stones as a hobby. Now, it could more aptly be described as an obsession. When his collection grew to gargantuan proportions, he invested in a rock cutter and polishing equipment. The next step was to open a stone and mineral museum so that he could store and share his fascinating geode collection. During your visit, you'll gain a whole new perspective on the hidden dimensions of everyday rocks. What is very plain and uninteresting on the outside can be dazzlingly beautiful on the inside once the rock is cut and polished. All the rocks and minerals on display here were found locally. The east coast of Iceland abounds with agate, quartz crystal, zeolite and many other minerals.
In the Old Harbor area, contemplate the unusual outdoor granite artwork placed around the waterfront. It's hard to say whether Djúpivogur is more famous for its real bird life or for its Eggs of Merry Bay (Eggin i Gledivik) sculpture, which has quite possibly stolen the show. The sculpture consists of 34 to-scale, oversized eggs dotted along the water's edge, each representing a local bird species. The largest egg represents the throat diver -- a bird commonly seen in and around Djúpivogur.
Next, head to 'the tank' -- not far from the eggs. Once used as a storage facility for fish-liver oil, the round tank gracing the harbor has been thoroughly cleaned and restored and is now a venue for performing musicians and exhibiting artists. It was officially opened in 2016 and has been very successful. Artists and musicians are drawn to the idyllic, serene surroundings and to the pleasing acoustics inside the tank. Step inside and feel free to give your vocal cords a thorough workout.
Your tour ends at the pier, but you may choose to walk further and explore the village on your own.
Notes:
Bird sightings are likely but are not guaranteed. The birds start migrating away around mid-August. Not advisable for guests with mobility limitations. Wear sturdy non-skid walking shoes. It is essential that you wear warm, layered clothing in order to fully enjoy and participate in this excursion. Outer layer should be waterproof and windproof. Bring gloves, a warm hat and a scarf. Tour operates rain or shine but may be canceled by the operator in the event of extremely bad weather or unsuitable conditions. Minimum age is 8 years.