The Journey Begins: Godafoss and the Tunnel of Steam

The air was crisp as we set off from Akureyri Port, a small group of ten, eager to explore the Icelandic landscapes that had long been whispered about in the circles of travelers and adventurers. Our guide, a local with a wealth of knowledge, led us through the 7.4 km tunnel that cut through the rock, a feat of engineering that had its own story to tell. The tunnel’s construction was fraught with challenges, as hot water and steam were constant companions, a reminder of the geothermal forces that shaped this land. Inside, the temperature soared to 25°C, a stark contrast to the -2°C outside.

Emerging from the tunnel, we were greeted by the majestic Godafoss waterfall. Its horseshoe shape and roaring waters were a testament to nature’s raw power. The waterfall, known as the ‘Waterfall of the Gods,’ was a sight to behold, and I found myself lost in its beauty, the sound of the water a symphony of nature’s might. It was here that I felt the first stirrings of awe, a feeling that would only grow as the day unfolded.

Lake Myvatn: A Landscape of Fire and Ice

Our journey continued to Lake Myvatn, a place where the earth’s fiery past was etched into the landscape. We stopped at a hotel for a brief respite before venturing to the lake, where the Souterrain craters awaited. These craters, formed by gases and lava bursting through the earth’s crust, were a stark reminder of the volcanic forces that lay beneath. The ground was black with volcanic ash, a canvas painted by nature’s hand.

The lava fields, with their troll-like shapes, were a whimsical contrast to the starkness of the craters. Local legends spoke of trolls inhabiting these formations, and during the 13 days leading up to Christmas, children would explore the area in search of Father Christmas. It was a place where myth and reality intertwined, a landscape that seemed to breathe with stories of old.

We then visited the tectonic plates, where the earth’s crust pushed against itself, creating a deep canyon. The pool beneath the fault, heated to 48°C, was a reminder of the geothermal activity that simmered below. The air was thick with the scent of sulphur dioxide as we moved to the bubbling mud pits, their steam rising like ghosts from the earth. It was a landscape both alien and familiar, a place where the earth’s raw beauty was laid bare.

The Thermal Pools and the Return to Akureyri

Our final stop was the natural thermal pool, a large rock pool filled with naturally heated water. We sipped coffee as we gazed at the pool, its surface steaming in the cool air. It was a moment of tranquility amidst the day’s adventures, a chance to reflect on the wonders we had witnessed.

As we made our way back to the ship, we passed through the Old Town of Akureyri. Our guide pointed out the interesting houses, each with its own story, a tapestry of history woven into the fabric of the town. The dramatic landscapes we had traversed were a stark contrast to the quaint charm of the town, a reminder of the diverse beauty that Iceland had to offer.

The tour had been a journey through a land of extremes, a place where fire and ice danced in harmony. It was a reminder of the power and beauty of nature, a testament to the resilience of the land and its people. As we returned to the ship, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the experience, a journey that had left an indelible mark on my soul.