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@Iceland under Snow: Aerial View

Eiður explained that the climate of Iceland in winter was significantly influenced by its location on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge and the Gulf Stream. Despite being situated just outside the Arctic Circle, its climate was relatively mild due to the warm ocean current, resulting in temperatures that averaged around 0°C (32°F). However, he explained, the country does experience significant snowfall, especially in the highlands and the northern regions.

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@Glacier in National Park

"We learnt about the Gulf Stream during our visit to the British Isles," remarked Zoe. "I didn't know they benefited from here as well."
"Yes, indeed, Zoe," replied Eiður. "The UK and Ireland definitely benefit from the Gulf Stream, and also other Northern European countries such as Germany, the Netherlands, also Tromsø in Norway, which would be uninhabitable without it."

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@Basalt Rock Arch, Atlantic Ocean

Eiður then took them to see a basalt rock arch, formed from volcanic eruptions that occurred millennia ago. He explained that the densely packed basalt columns had been shaped by the unceasing waves and harsh weather conditions. The basalt, a type of volcanic rock, has a distinctive hexagonal pattern.

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@Krysuvikurkirkja

A mist had fallen when they took a trek to see Krysuvikurkirkja, or the Krysuvik Church. Eiður explained that this picturesque church is situated in a dramatic geothermal landscape, surrounded by steaming vents and bubbling hot springs. "The church's unique setting makes it a popular spot for tourists seeking an authentic Icelandic experience, as well as for photographers capturing the stark beauty of the region," remarked Eiður. "It was originally built in 1857, and is one of the oldest wooden churches in the country. It was constructed with a traditional turf roof, a common feature in Icelandic architecture at the time, which served both as insulation and protection against the harsh weather conditions. It was relocated from its original site to its current location in 1967, to prevent damage from the expanding geothermal activity. I think it still manages to retain its original charm and character, don't you think?" The pets chorused agreement.

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@Straumur

The tour coach took them to Straumur, some distance from the capital. Eiður explained that the place was a striking example of a braided river system that show­cased the inter­play between glacial activity, volcanic geo­logy and the forces of erosion and deposition. It served as a living laboratory for scientists studying fluvial processes and their implications for the environ­ment and land­scape evolution. The area is also significant for its bio­diversity and offers a compelling natural spectacle for visitors to the Vatnajökull National Park.

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@Lupins in Iceland

Eiður asked the driver to pull up beside a meadow of beautiful lupins. "Now, my friends -- have you heard of the law of unintended consequences?" he asked.
"Rabbits in Australia," responded Sparkle.
"Starlings in North America," replied Reginald.
Eiður beamed. "Two excellent and very apposite examples, Reginald and Sparkle! Lupins are native to the Americas and the Mediterranean region. They were brought to Iceland from Alaska in the 1930s with the intention of preventing and soil erosion, but their story took a controversial turn. The lupins were selected for their ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, which would help in the growth of other plants and trees. The lupins thrived in the harsh Icelandic climate, their deep roots holding the soil together and their vibrant blue, purple, and pink blooms carpeting the previously barren land. The transformation was so dramatic that it was celebrated in art, poetry, and photography, with the lupins becoming a symbol of national pride and resilience. So what went wrong? Have a think about what might have gone wrong with this success story! We'll come back to it later."

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@Kerid Volcano Crater

"Gather round, everypet," said Eiður. "This is one of my favourite spots. The Kerið Volcano Crater is a stunning natural attraction approximately 5000 years old. It is about 270 metres in diameter and 55 metres deep. Now, according to Icelandic folklore, the Kerid Crater is said to be the site of an ancient elfin city! The crater's name is derived from the Icelandic word 'ker' which means or 'cauldron'. The water's vivid color and the stark, almost otherworldly beauty of the area have inspired countless stories and legends. The crater is surrounded by a protected natural reserve, which is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including mosses, lichens and small arctic flowers, which are well adapted to the volcanic soil. The area also serves as a haven for various bird species, including the rare and elusive falcon. So keep on the look-out, and you might see it!"

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@Wild Angelica, Angelica archangelica

Eiður indicated a clump of herb with large, showy white flowers and celery-like stems. "This is the angelica plant," he said. "Who knows what it's used for?"
"It's candied and used as a decoration on cakes!" Sparkle piped up eagerly.
Eiður smiled. "Yes, there is that, Sparkle. Its culinary uses are very important. But in Iceland, angelica has been revered for centuries for its medicinal properties. Its introduction to the island is often associated with the arrival of the Vikings, who recognised the plant's potential and brought it with them from their homelands. The Icelandic name for the plant, Hvönn reflects its cherished status, as it translates to 'the herb of the blessed.'"

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@Almannagjá, Thingvellir NP

"We are now going on a trek for an hour or so, followed by a picnic lunch," announced Eiður. "I will bring up the rear to make sure no one gets lost."
They enjoyed an interesting trek, then Eiður demonstrated how to safely light a fire, to heat up onion soup which they had with rye bread and butter, followed by skyr and fruit.

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@Red Knot birds

As they ate, Eiður pointed out half a dozen red knots (Calidris canutus islandica) flying past. He said these were often mistaken for ruby-throated hummingbirds, but hummingbirds would only be in Iceland under the most extraordinary of circum­stances, such as being blown badly off course whilst flying back from warm, over-wintering countries.

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@Icelandic Arctic Fox, Vulpes lagopus

On their way back to the coach they had the good fortune to spot an arctic fox, a captivating creature that calls the stark, frozen landscapes of Iceland home. Eiður explained that it was the only native land mammal in the country, having arrived on the island before the last Ice Age around 10,000 years ago. This small but hardy fox is uniquely adapted to survive the harsh conditions of the Arctic tundra.

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@Thingvellir

Eiður explained that Thingvellir had diverse flora and fauna and are a delight for nature enthusiasts. There are moss-covered lava fields, blooming wildflowers in summer and a variety of bird species including the iconic Arctic tern and the majestic Gyrfalcon.
"Thingvellir is also home to the Great Geyser, the first geyser to be mentioned in a printed source and the one that lent its name to these natural hot springs worldwide," Eiður continued.

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@Icelandic Poppy, Meconopsis nudicaulis

They passed a meadow of stunning Icelandic poppies with large, fragrant petals of yellow, orange, reddish or white flowers.

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@Thingvellir

Eiður told them that the name Thingvellir, meaning 'assembly fields' originated from its role as the site of the Althing, the world's oldest parliament, which was established in 930 CE. For nearly a millennium, this open-air assembly was the centre of Iceland's political and judicial system, where chieftains from across the country would gather to make laws and resolve disputes.

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@Barnafoss Falls

The Barnafoss Falls were magical -- twisting, turning, foaming and churning as the water raced down a narrow passage of volcanic rock. Eiður related a very dark tale from Icelandic folklore about the Barnafoss waterfall. The pets were glad to move on to the contrastingly serene Hraunfossar falls, just a short walk away.

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@Stykkishólmur

They arrived at the small town of Stykkisholmur on the northern shore of the Snaefellsnes peninsula. Eiður said they had two options for their entertainment: they could visit the Sátan Festival, a celebration of heavy metal music, or they could shop for souvenirs in the enchanting shops in the town. "Be back at the coach in two hours, please!" he ended.

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@Icelandic Sheep

Eiður stopped the driver so the pets could make friends with some Icelandic sheep. "These creatures are beautiful, tame and friendly. Today it is forbidden to import sheep to Iceland, so this sheep has remained very isolated in Iceland and is therefore one of the purest breeds of sheep in the world. Their wool is prized for its strength and beauty."

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@Icelandic Horses

Some horses came trotting up to join them. Eiður explained that Icelandic horses have evolved to withstand the harsh conditions of the country. "Its friendly temperament, unique gait and pure bloodline preserved for over a thousand years means that the Icelandic horse holds a very special place in the hearts of Icelanders."

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@National Park

The next stop was Olafsvik. Eiður explained that Olafs­vik, surrounded by majestic mountains and the ever-present Snae­­fells­jokull glacier, offers a plethora of outdoor activities for visitors seeking to connect with nature. The Snaefellsnes Peninsula is also home to the National Park, which is home to a diverse range of geological wonders, such as the black-sand beach of Djupalonssandur, the mysterious Vatnshellir lava cave, and the otherworldly landscapes of the Berserkjahraun lava field.

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@Off the beaten track - Olafsvik

He said that Olafsvik had served as the backdrop for numerous films and TV shows, including Game of Thrones. "For those interested in culture, the town has several museums, galleries and historic sites. The Olafsvik Maritime Museum provides insight into the town's rich seafaring heritage, while the Settlement Exhibition in Borgarnes showcases the region's early Viking settlements."
The pets agreed that the charming wooden buildings lining the streets of Olafsvik added to its old-world appeal, and they were sorry they were here too soon to enjoy the town's annual summer festival, Sjomannadagurin, celebrating the maritime culture with a series of vibrant events, including a parade, music performances and rowing competitions.

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@Olafsvik

Eiður said that the town's history dated back to the 17th century when it was established as a commercial and administrative centre for the region. He explained that its name was a tribute to Olafur, a legendary local chieftain, and vik, which translates to 'bay' in Icelandic, reflecting its coastal location.

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@Olafsvik Harbour

The pets learnt that the heart of Olafsvik was its vibrant harbour, where colourful fishing boats bobbed gently in the water, and the aroma of the fresh catch wafted through the air. They saw the town was a thriving hub for the local fishing industry, with its economy heavily reliant on the bountiful waters of the North Atlantic Ocean. The harbour was also the launching point for thrilling whale watching excursions and other marine adventures that attracted tourists from around the globe.

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@Kirkjufell

They all got back into the coach for the 15 mile (23 km) journey to Mount Kirkjufell, a striking landmark on Iceland’s Snaefellsnes Peninsul. Eiður said it was one of the country’s most photographed mountains! With an elevation of 1519 feet (463 metres), it towered over the rugged coastal landscape.

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@Icelandic Sunset

Eiður said that Kirkjufell had been named after its resemblance to a church steeple but that lately, it had taken on another name, Arrowhead Mountain, thanks to its appearance in the Game of Thrones television series.
By this time, it had grown dark, and they set off for their guest house for the night.

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@Aurora Borealis

All of a sudden, the night sky started dancing with the most phenomenal display of the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, a natural light show caused, explained Eiður, by the collision of charged particles from the sun with Earth's magnetic field. The coach driver pulled over to the side of the road so that the pets could enjoy this marvel to the full. What a fantastic end to the day!

Sparkle has enjoyed touring Iceland, but it is time to go home. Please select another pet as visitor, so they can also enjoy this event!