Cultural Heritage, Horses & Nature

OVERVIEW

Behold the natural beauty of northern Iceland and enjoy the cultural diversity by browsing a museum and watching an equestrian performance. A breathtakingly scenic drive will bring you to Goðafoss, the so-called “Waterfall of the Gods.” According to legend, it was named for the statues of Nordic gods that a chieftain threw into the water when Iceland converted to Christianity. The turf roofed Laufás Folk Museum will add a different perspective of the country, as it is filled with curious household and agricultural items from the 19th century. The Icelandic horse is even more unusual because it is the world’s only breed that holds five gaits—walk, trot, gallop, tölt and the flying pace. While watching these strong-spirited horses perform at Brúnir Farm, you will understand why they are held in such high esteem. You will enjoy some refreshments at the horse farm as well. Back in Akureyri, you will meander through the world’s northernmost botanical gardens. A surprising variety of plants flourish there thanks to the area’s warm microclimate.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Hear the legend of Goðafoss waterfall while watching the thundering cascade.
• Browse a turf-roofed museum with a variety of enlightening 19th-century items.
• Watch a rare performance of Icelandic horses that highlights their unusual abilities.
• Walk through the world’s northernmost botanical gardens.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in layers in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes with non-slip soles.