Iceland review - 2016, Page 80

78 ICELAND REVIEW
North Iceland is home to some of the
most dramatic landscapes on the is-
land—thundering waterfalls, vast lava
fields, geothermal hot spots and steep
hills and mountains. Charming towns and
villages in the north offer an array of at-
tractions, tours and fun outdoor activities.
CAPITAL OF THE NORTH
Indeed, there’s a lot to experience in
North Iceland, and Akureyri is at the cen-
ter of it all. Akureyri, which was voted one
of the best places in Europe in 2015 by
Lonely Planet, is Iceland’s second most
populous urban area. The town has a
thriving art scene, spectacular outdoor
activities, like skiing, and shops and
restaurants that rival those in Reykjavík.
The open terrain around Akureyri and
towns including Sauðárkrókur and Si-
glufjörður, the northernmost town in
Iceland, treats visitors to sights of tra-
ditional Icelandic churches, charming
villages and a dramatic coastline. Head-
ing from Akureyri toward the northeast,
there are countless stops to make along
the way; including the lush lands around
Lake Mývatn, and the majestic Dettifoss
waterfall.
THRILLING OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
North Iceland is the favorite destination
for winter activities on the island. In North
Iceland there are five ski resorts with fully
equipped facilities that operate from De-
cember to April, with the resort in Akureyri
being the most popular. Each resort has
its own unique charm and specialty. Snow
enthusiasts can opt for cross-country ski-
ing, backcountry skiing, snowboarding and
even heli-skiing in Tröllaskagi. The slopes
don’t see a lot of traffic compared to other
ski destinations, so it’s possible to be alone,
or amongst a few fellow skiers, which is
EXPLORE
THE ARCTIC NORTH
The beautiful north has it all—adventurous activities,
breathtaking nature and wondrous wildlife.
Hof Cultural and Conference Center with
northern lights overhead.