We arrived in Reykjavik, the World’s most northerly capital, at 8.00am this morning for a two day stay. The name of the city loosely translates as “Smoky Bay” after the steam rising from the hot springs that surround the area. Ironically it is probably one of the cleanest cities in the world and perhaps should be named “smokeless bay”.
After the obligatory selfie onboard we made our way along the sea path to the city.
The walk to the centre takes about forty minutes and weaves its way along the coastal path taking in some interesting sights along the route such as this large volcanic boulder on a sandy beach.
The path was peppered either side with flowers and other vegetation such as these wild lupins.
The route took us past numerous sculptures and monuments, perhaps the most striking being this modern interpretation of a Viking ship.
Towering over the city is the distinctive Hallgrimskirkja, a modern Lutheran church built in the early 1970s in memory of a noted local composer of hymns. Outside the church is a statue of Leifur Eiriksson, one of the early explorers of North America.
From the top of the bell tower tremendous views of the city and surrounding countryside can be had, clarified by the lack of pollution in the air.
We continued our walk around the town taking in the city hall and the outside of some of the many museums, pausing to take photos of some of the quaint shops.
A spot of souvenir hunting together with a coffee and bun completed the trip, getting back to the ship just before a rain shower. In total more than 25000 steps today, we should sleep soundly tonight.
Tomorrow we hope to have a look in some of the museums.
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