Shetland Islands, First Impressions

I was very happy to visit the Shetland Islands. I had always thought these were "just"  island extensions of Scotland. I do know that to visit the Shetland Islands one has to either take a ferry or fly from Aberdeen, Scotland...or arrive by larger cruise ship as part of a longer itinerary (such as the Ocean Princess).  After speaking to a large number of locals, I quickly learned that they prefer to be considered Shetland Islanders, and not Scots. Many of them are proud islanders, have never lived elsewhere, and have no plans to leave.

When one arrives by cruise ship anywhere, there is always concern about transportation into town from the port area. Lerwick  (Shetland Islands) is very accommodating for cruise line guests. As I left the ship to go into town, I was told a complimentary bus would take us into town. A member of the Lerwick tourism was waiting to welcome us at the end of the pier, handed us brochures of the area, and happily answered any and all questions. Soon the bus arrived, and we were on our way into town.

(Map above, from  Thomas Harold Grimshaw web page)

Time to Leave Akureyri, Along the Eyjafjordur

When you see the pilot boat, it is a sure sign you'll soon be on your way!

The Eyjafjordur is one of my favorites. There are some very nice farms and small villages along the fjord, with a promise of Akureyri at the mouth of the fjord.

This view is a favorite of mine.

The sun came out to highlight this special farm.

And we disappeared into the fog. 


I missed seeing my dear quilting friend, Ragnheidur, this time. Since our last visit together, sadly she passed on  much too young. 

Lystigardur Akureyrar -- One of the Northernmost Botanical Gardens in the World

Near the Arctic Circle one can find botanical gardens. This one in northern Iceland has many native, as well as non-native plants. To see a listing of plants native to Iceland, click here.

The Botanical Gardens are very popular with the local population and with tourists who would rather see native flora beauty instead of the sulphur mud pots in the countryside (Hverarönd). (I've seen both.)

More Northern Iceland

Returning from the countryside to Akureyri.

Next:  The Botanical Gardens

(Now comments appear to be unresponsive. I am trying to fix that!)

Laufás

Laufás is one of many Icelandic sod farm museums. It is really very cozy inside. 

Click here, if you wish to see locations of other

Icelandic Sod Museums.

From Akureyri, A Ride Through the Countryside

One of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland is Goðafoss. These falls have religious significance, because it was here (sometime between 900 and 1000 AD) that Lawspeaker Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði officially tossed the statues of the Norse gods into the waterfall and turned to Christianity.

Local countryside near Goðafoss.

After the waterfalls, a subdued stream flows towards the ocean.

On the road to Laufas.

Can you see the April 1st posting yet?

I've re-done it. Again.