Folklore & Waterfalls

In the southwest of Iceland near Faxafloi Bay lies the capital of the country, Reykjavík, simultaneously cosmopolitan and charming. The colorful houses on the horizon create a quaint scene that will make you want to stay forever. Kaleidoscopic views await you at the Harpa Concert Hall, a glittering, glass structure that perfectly exemplifies Iceland’s modern design and will fascinate your inner architect. One of Iceland’s most prominent landmarks is Perlan, originally a group of hot water tanks that was converted to a building that now hosts an exhibition, planetarium, restaurant and observation deck, located atop Oskjuhlid hill.

Say halló to volcanoes, lava fields, caves, and mountains on the fascinating island of Heimaey - literally translated as Home Island. Part of the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago (Westman Islands), this destination offers views of lush cliffsides and classic Icelandic architecture that will take your breath away. Built around the remains of an excavated home buried by ash during Eldfell’s eruption, you’ll find the Eldheimar Museum, which offers an excellent audio guide that takes you through the home and describes the history and events before, during, and after the eruption. One of the most iconic landmarks of Vestmannaeyjar, Elephant Rock, lies just off the south coast of Iceland. And there’s no need to squint to see it because, from every angle, you can see a gargantuan elephant in the middle of the sea.

Nestled along Iceland’s eastern coast, Djupivogur boasts a vibrant community that treasures its traditions. As you explore, the genuine warmth of the locals, known for their artisanal crafts and storytelling, invites you to become better acquainted. Taste the heart of Icelandic cuisine, indulging in freshly caught seafood, and savoring dishes like langoustine and Arctic char treated with traditional culinary artistry. The farm-to-table dining ethos is strong here, with meals crafted from local, organic produce paired with some of the finest brews and spirits. Djupivogur’s history is steeped in maritime lore, from its early days as a bustling fishing village to its significance in the trade routes. Explore the Langabyd museum, one of Iceland’s oldest trading houses, where centuries-old artifacts tell stories of a bygone era and the resilience of its people. Nearby, the grandeur of roaring waterfalls like the spectacular Hengifoss are highlighted by colorful rhyolite cliffs. Keep an eye out for puffins, seals, and possibly whales.

Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore

The harbor town of Stornoway (Isles of Lewis) is your gateway for an unforgettable adventure. Steeped in history and culture, ranging back thousands of years, you’ll find that Gaelic is spoken alongside English, and eagles and otters are as many residents as the locals. For a complete account of Stornoway's social, cultural, archaeological, geological, and economic history, head to Museum nan Eilean. A drive along the west coast of the Isle of Lewis reveals the Neolithic standing stones at Callanish that are older and more impressive than Stonehenge. Comprising 19 monoliths, ending in a circle of 13 stones with rows of other stones radiating out in the shape of a cross, this site is fascinating.

The capital of the Isle of Mull, Tobermory, welcomes you with colorful shops, cafes, and houses lined along the picturesque harbor. Sitting amid the Scottish Inner Hebrides, this old fishing village offers stunning landscapes, including golden eagles overhead and dolphins and minke whales in the water. Gather your fellow explorers for a trek along the bay in search of the town’s namesake, Mary’s Well (Tobermory in Gaelic), a stone structure marked with a Celtic cross dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Local history comes to life at the Mull Museum, but legend holds just as much allure with tales of a sunken Spanish galleon filled with gold and treasure lying below the harbor waves. Discover local artists and the art scene at An Tobar and Mull Theater, filled with exhibitions, workshops, and activities that engage the senses. Raise a glass to the Scottish whisky tradition with new friends at Tobermory Distillery, one of Scotland’s oldest established in the 1790s.
 

Between Ireland and Great Britain in the Irish Sea, there’s a small dot of land called the Isle of Man. Douglas is the capital and your gateway to the incredible treasures that this lesser-known Crown Dependency holds. Not only is Isle of Man culturally and historically different from its surrounding islands, but also linguistically diverse, among the many languages Manx, a Gaelic language similar to some types of Irish Gaelic, but unique to the island. Douglas’ lovely seafront can be traversed by horse-drawn trams, but if you prefer speed, this town also delivers winding roads for a thrilling motorcycle adventure. After all, this is the home of the International Isle of Man TT (Tourist Trophy) Race.

Ireland’s capital, Dublin, is bustling, cosmopolitan, ancient, and young. It is one of Europe’s liveliest cities, where medieval and 17th-century buildings stand comfortably amid all the trappings of a 21st-century community. Marvels like the incredible Book of Kells, one of the most beautifully illuminated manuscripts in the world, call out to the curious. A gentle and relaxing cruise along the River Liffey immerses you in the capital’s colorful history, from the first arrival of the Vikings to the rapid development of the city during the 18th and 19th centuries. When in Dublin, the Guinness Storehouse, located in the heart of St. James’ Gate Brewery, invites you to raise a glass at the Gravity Bar with a 360-degree view of the city skyline.