Saturday, May 10, 2025 – Photo of the Day – Akureyri, Iceland

Where in the World Are We?

We are in Akureyri, Iceland, on the north coast of Iceland

AKUREYRI, ICELAND
Iceland’s Capital of the North
Iceland’s Capital of the North is the gateway to a thrilling land of roaring waterfalls, soaring volcanoes, and glorious wildlife. Although it lies a mere 60 miles from the Arctic Circle, Akureyi blossoms with a bright, cosmopolitan feel and explodes into life during the summer, when its outdoor cafes and open-air bathing spots fill up with visitors ready to immerse themselves in Iceland’s cinematic scenery.

Feel the thundering impact of Iceland’s celebrated natural wonders shaking your bones at Godafoss Waterfalls, known as the ‘Waterfalls of the Gods’. Here, the Skjálfandafljót River unleashes a colossal torrent of water over charcoal-black rocks below. Or, find some peace at the Botanical Gardens, which opened in 1957 and offers space for contemplation amid plants that bloom with unexpected vibrancy, even at this northerly latitude.

The Lutheran, Akureyrarkirkja Church, rises like a grand church organ and is the town’s most striking landmark. The 112-step climb is worth the effort to see light flooding through its narrow stained-glass windows, spreading colorful patchworks
across the interior. Magic and mythology are essential elements of Icelandic folklore, and you’ll even bump into giant sculptures of grizzled, child-snatching trolls on the town’s high street.

Or, meet more earthly – but no less magical – creatures in the waters around Akureyi, where immense blue whales cruise by, and dolphins playfully leap.

SIGHTS

• Akureyrarkirkja (The Church of
  Akureyri)
• Akureyri Botanical Garden
• Hafnarstræti Boutiques
• Akureyri Art Museum
• Christmas House (Jólahúsið)
• The Old Town (Innbærinn)
  
• CUISINE
  Akureyri’s gastronomic identity reflects Iceland’s northern spirit with refined charm. Enjoy Arctic trout, tender lamb, and wild herbs reimagined with modern sensibility. Whether at a fine-dining restaurant or a tucked-away bistro, ingredients are celebrated for purity and provenance. Pair your meal with views of snow-dusted mountains or fjordside calm for
  a complete northern indulgence.

Today’s Excursion – Kjarnaskógur Forest Stroll
We explored this picturesque hiking excursion in the Kjarnaskógur Forest.

Akureyri, Kjarnaskógur Forest, Guided Walk, Towering Trees, Brunná Stream, Sun Clock
The Kjarnaskógur Forest is a once-barren landscape transformed into a thriving forest and a testament to successful reforestation efforts. We marveled at the lush, green surroundings and towering trees, breathed in the crisp Icelandic air, and soaked in the tranquility of diverse woodlands.

The Kjarnaskógur Forest is also paradise for birdwatchers, with over 210 recorded bird species, including those found in the
adjoining Kjarnaskógur Wetlands, a haven for bird enthusiasts. Please keep your eyes peeled for colourful avian residents like the rare, strict primrose and bluebell, and learn about their habitats from your expert guide. The wild vegetation in the woods is
highly diversified, offering many plant species to discover. Enhance your birding experience during a stop at the dedicated
shelter by the Hundatjörn Marsh in Naustaborgir.

We then went into Akureyri to explore the town center.

Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant