Iceland’s Traditions & Landscapes
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Port
Grundarfjordur, 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
$219.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Immerse yourself in Icelandic legends, landscapes and culture during this captivating tour that kicks off with a picturesque drive to the massive, 4,000-year-old Berserkergata lava field. It is so stark and dramatic that it could be from another world. This setting serves as the backdrop in a renowned Viking saga in which two Berserkers forged Iceland’s first road, only to be murdered afterward by their employer. Capture photos of the path’s remains, still visible in the lava, along with the men’s burial mound.
Journey to Bjarnarhofn Shark Farm for a guided tour with the farm’s shark master. Learn the process of preparing shark meat, which involves curing it for months.
View the farmers’ church from the outside and the unconventional maritime museum, where large chunks of raw shark meat ferment their way to becoming hakarl -- an Icelandic delicacy that can only be described as… interesting. Before leaving, if you have the courage, brave the bold taste of hakarl and wash it down with the local schnapps called Brennivin which, naturally, means “Black Death.”
The adventure continues with a visit to Helgafell -- the holy mountain. The summit of this rocky, 240-foot-tall mound once held a temple dedicated to Thor, the Norse god of thunder. Today, a parsonage dating back to 1904 resides at its base. According to the Laxdaela Saga, anyone who climbs this sacred hill in the proper sequence will be granted three wishes.
Back on the road, travel past striking landscapes to reach the largest town in the peninsula: Stykkisholmur. Established as a trading post in 1550, this thriving center of commerce and tourism boasts well-preserved traditional Icelandic homes clinging to its gently rolling hills.
Following your adventure, return to the pier.
Notes:
Minimum age to drink schnapps is 21 years. Dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes. Dress warmly in layers with a windproof and waterproof outer layer; bring a warm hat, gloves and a scarf.