LIFE & CULTURE OF ISAFJORDUR
Excursions
- Approx. 3 hours
- Maximum of 200
What is it like to live at latitude 66° north? This tour will give us an insight into the area and the lives of those who live here.
The town of Ísafjörður is the biggest settlement in the West Fjords of Iceland and the centre of that area for trading and culture. It is situated on a long, flat, hook-shaped gravel spit that reaches out into the fjord. In the oldest part of the town, Nedstikaupstadur, old houses from the 18th century are a witness of the importance that, for hundreds of years, Ísafjörður has been one of the main trading centres in Iceland.
We start from Ísafjörður harbour and drive through the centre of town along a narrow coastal road towards the town of Bolungarvik where we visit the church. A visit is made to Osvor, an old fisherman’s hut, which was restored in 1988. Osvor is a perfect example of how life was for Icelandic fishermen until the beginning of the 20th century. The village of Bolungarvik lies at a picturesque bay surrounded by steep mountains. It was previously a harbour for rowing boats.
We shall then enjoy a drive in the direction of Ísafjörður during which we can enjoy views of the magnificent mountains of the “Djup”, the largest fjord in the West Fjords. We then drive to the Valley of Tungudalur.
On the way back to our ship, we will drive through the oldest part of Ísafjörður and stop at the Maritime Museum. The Museum is situated in one of the oldest houses in Ísafjörður and beside it there are three other renovated and preserved houses, all from the same era around 1780.
TOUR NOTES: This tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or wheelchair passengers, as most of the sites visited do not have easy access for wheelchairs. Sturdy and waterproof shoes or boots are recommended – in case of wet weather. Typical Icelandic refreshments including schnapps, dried fish and/or shark (preserved Icelandic style) will be served on this tour.
DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR THE 2011 SCANDINAVIA & BALTIC SEASON.
Snack or meal provided
Refreshments available
Free time
Shopping opportunity
Wheelchair access
Swimming opportunity
All prices are based on operating costs, tariffs and rates of exchange and are subject to change without notice.
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