Avalon Waterways

Let Avalon Waterways transport you along the scenic rivers of Europe and beyond to experience the essence of history and culture. Avalon Waterways takes you there in style and comfort.
Running time: 9:31

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"I travelled to Iceland in April, 2009 to source an itinerary for an adventure group. I was immediately struck by the amazingly beautiful, lonely landscape. We had certainly picked the right spot for the adventure group as Iceland's pristine countryside is perfect for hiking. There are no fenced off areas. You can go where you please and in some areas the trails are well marked. There are also no predators making it safe and enjoyable. Camping is also very popular along with fishing, snowmobiling, 4x4 off road travel and glacier skiing."

"Our guide met us in the capital city of Reykjavik. This vibrant centre is where 80% of the population lives. It is a very sophisticated, Scandinavian city with excellent art galleries, restaurants, high fashion shops and legendary night life. No tacky tourist shops in sight. Europeans fly here for the weekend to take in all this city has to offer."

"Everywhere we travelled on the island, we were struck by the dramatic scenery. There are thousands of cascading, crystal clear waterfalls, snow capped mountains, twisted lava formations, black sand beaches, glaciers, bubbling mud flats, volcanic craters, wetlands, clean flowing rivers and rich farmlands, all on this remote island, just south of the Arctic Circle. It is a rare combination of landscapes, especially having volcanic fire and glacial ice so close together."

"The colours are striking too as you see, for example, black sand, white waterfalls and blue sky all at once."

"Another surprising fact is how self sufficient Icelanders are. Despite long hours of darkness for much of the year, they can produce food year round thanks to green houses heated by the geothermal activity. They also produce their own cheeses."

Highlights

• Snaefellsness Peninsula and Snaefellsjokull Glacier - The rugged West coast with its high waves is very dramatic and home to this amazing glacier. The locals like to hike up and ski down - no chairlifts here!
• The Golden Circle - This scenic route is doable from Reykjavik in a day. It comprises the geothermally active valley of Haukadalur, Gullfoss waterfall and Thingvellier National Park. There is much of importance to see along the way including the reliable "Strokkur" geyser and the great "Geyser" where the name originated. In the park, you can see the original site of the oldest parliament in the world which was founded by the Vikings. There's also a site where you can view the Great Atlantic Rift, a rift that is slowly pulling Iceland apart along the North American and European tectonic plates.
• Southern Iceland - Here you'll find a lowland region of rich farmlands. In April farmers were getting the sheep and cattle out to fields for the summer. There are also magnificent black sand beaches, striking twisted lava rocks, glaciers, charming villages, and yes, many more photo opportunities! A hike to the top of Skogafoss waterfall presented us with breathtaking scenery and magical moments viewing the nesting fulmars in the misty rainbows. Simply spectacular!
• Lake Myvatn region - From the northern fishing village of Akureyri we explored this fascinating geothermal region with its bubbling mud flats, volcanic craters, lava fields, geothermal pools as well as geothermal power stations. (Geothermal power plants provide power to 90% of the residents.) The grassy wetlands in the area were teeming with many species of birds returning home to nest for the summer.
• Nature Baths and Spas - Swimming is a daily activity in Iceland. Every village has a community pool called a bath heated by a geothermal source. Health spas attract visitors to Iceland for natural cures. The Myvatn Nature Bath has a natural blend of nutrients and microorganisms with unique health benefits. The largest of the health spas is the Blue Lagoon situated near the airport. People fly in from around the world for psoriasis and other treatments. Blue Lagoon products are sold around the world.

Tips & Recommendations

• Icelandair flies from Toronto to Reykjavik. The flight takes about 5 hours overnight.
• Accommodations are limited during peak seasons and hotels book up as much as a year ahead. I wouldn't recommend going without accommodations secured unless of course you are adventurous and don't mind camping.
• There are many types of accommodations from bed and breakfast to first class. Many of the bed and breakfasts are converted and renovated barns, quite rustic but nice. Many families will farm for their main business and have a bed and breakfast on the side. Most accommodations are basic, particularly outside of the major towns, but there are some first class lodges.
• It is very easy to rent a car with a GPS and explore. The roads are excellent and the maps are easy to follow. Depending on the time of year, some roads are closed but the major highways are almost always open.
• There are many excursions offered from Reykjavik and Akureyri from day trips to several days and these can be pre-booked (which I would recommend).
• There are also longer organized tours of Iceland and cruise ships call in the summer months.
• Note there are 24 hours of daylight in the summer and 24 hours of darkness in the winter as Iceland is so far north, right beside the Arctic Circle. Even in April it was light till 10pm.

"Visit Iceland soon while prices are comparable to Canada. They will no doubt rise again in the future. Iceland is still remote, pristine and not overrun with visitors however it can't be long before the world discovers this remarkable country."

By Susan Milne

IMPORTANT: When booking, ask us for the appropriate supplier brochure for complete details and terms and conditions for your vacations and as well inquire about any possible past guest savings. Offers are space available and may be withdrawn at anytime without prior notice and are not combinable with other offers (unless stated otherwise). All prices, details and offers are subject to change. We are not responsible for errors or omissions.

Articles by Susan Milne