Iceland review - 2015, Side 88

86 ICELAND REVIEW
From adrenaline-boosting adventures like heli-skiing on steep
mountains, driving in super jeeps or ski-doos across stunning snow-
covered landscapes, skiing at the Tindastóll resort, to observing
dazzling northern lights, Skagafjörður has it all. The region is one of
the best in Iceland to view the cosmic wonder due to low precipita-
tion and clear skies.
horses anD hisTory
Nowhere in Iceland is the Icelandic horse held in higher regard than
in Skagafjörður. The region is famous for its quality riding horses and
colorful herds are everywhere to be seen, grazing on fresh green
grass in summer, happy foals bouncing by, and standing out in the
snowy winter landscape, fat and fluffy in their winter coats. Unsur-
prisingly, horseback riding is a favored activity in the region and visi-
tors can choose from a number of different stables.
Skagafjörður is also frequented by saga enthusiasts, as many of
the most famous scenes from the Icelandic sagas are set there; in-
cluding the Flugumýri arson and battle of Haugsnes from Sturlunga
saga. Visitors should not miss a visit to Drangey island, where Grettir
Ásmundarson was outlawed, or a soak in Grettislaug, the geothermal
natural pool where he warmed up after swimming from the island to
fetch fire. Fosslaug is another popular natural pool in the region, and
the swimming pool in Hofsós is truly unique for its views, where
swimmers marvel at the unobstructed view of Drangey.

naTure anD culTure
Island tours are a must. In summer, daily tours run to Drangey
and by arrangement in winter. The island is home to a large puffin
colony—the birds start arriving in May—and numerous falcons,
which is a resident bird. Island Málmey and cape Þórðarhöfði are
also known for their rich birdlife.
In the town of Sauðárkrókur you can find the only tannery in Eu-
rope which makes fish leather. Guided tours of the tannery, where
fish skin is expertly processed to make high-quality leather, are
offered. Other museums worth a visit include the Icelandic Emi-
gration Center in Hofsós, the Heritage House Glaumbær (an old
turf farm), Icelandic Horse Center and the Icelandic Beer Center.
In summer and winter, Skagafjörður has plenty of tours and
activities available. Rafting on glacial rivers, sightseeing tours by
foot, horse, car or boat, sea angling, fishing in lakes and rivers,
sharp shooting, archery, bird hunting, golf and much more. The
opportunities are endless.
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horses, sagas, pools, islands, fish leather and winter fun are only a few of the many reasons
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