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@Stunning Aurora Borealis

Eiður explained to the group concepts such as solar wind, magneto­sphere inter­actions and the role of the Earth's atmos­phere in producing the vibrant colours that adorn the night sky. He very helpfully demonstrated which camera settings to use to best capture the beauty of the aurora borealis.

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@Þórsmörk

Iceland is known for its stunning natural beauty, characterised by snow-covered mountains and winding rivers cutting through the landscape. The area is popular for hiking and offers a unique blend of rugged terrain and glacial views. Despite its name, Iceland is not entirely covered in ice and has diverse landscapes.

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@Route 1, Ring Road, Iceland

They were travelling extensively on a winding stretch of Route 1, also known as the Ring Road, in Iceland. Eiður said that this road was a popular route for visitors, as it encircled the entire island and provided access to many of Iceland's most famous landscapes. The route captures the unique beauty of Iceland, with its volcanic terrain, rugged mountains, and coastal views. The road itself was paved, making it accessible to most vehicles, and the speed limit in rural areas is 90 km/hr (56 mph). This road offers a unique experience for those who seek to merge their spirit with the wild, whether gliding on tarmac or conquering rugged terrain.

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@'Ware Sheep!

Eiður explained that the coach driver was always on the watch for sheep on the road. "They are a common hazard on roads in Iceland," he remarked, "particularly during the summer months. They roam freely in the countryside and are known to cross roads without warning. Icelandic sheep are an integral part of the landscape."

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@Lake Mývatn

Lake Mývatn, a natural wonder, was created as a result of a massive basaltic eruption, explained Eiður, and as a result, Lake Myvatn is now home to incredible geo­logical features as well as a wealth of flora and fauna. The lake's surround­ings are dotted with diverse volcanic land­forms of unbelievable beauty, including pseudo­craters, lava pillars, lava fields, and hot springs. These sites are not only stunning to look at but also grant valuable insight into the raw natural forces that shaped Iceland's unique landscape.

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@Moss-Covered Lava Field

The volcanoes of Iceland are well known and are visible as you explore the landscape. Equally present are the moss-covered lava fields, lying in dark, sprawling fields across the barren landscape.
Like the volcanoes in Iceland, the lava fields in Iceland vary in age. Some are ancient while others are incredibly new.

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@Drangshlíðarfjall mountain; Skóga River

Eiður provided an overview of Icelandic geography. Straddling two tectonic plates and sitting on a geo­logical hotspot, Iceland is shaped by volcanic activity and glacial erosion. This creates a wide array of mountain forms — from volcanic peaks and fast-flowing lava fields to sharp, rugged ridge­lines and ancient, glacial-sculpted plateaus.
In the Westfjords, older flat-topped mountains, dating back 10–16 million years, rise above narrow fjords, their contours softened by glaciers. The Eastfjords, by contrast, are defined by sharper, younger formations shaped by tectonic upheaval.
To the south, volcanic peaks like those near Vik dominate the skyline, while in the north, mountains such as those near Akureyri offer a striking mix of steep slopes and sweeping valleys.

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@Erupting Geyser

Eiður described a scene amidst the landscape of Iceland's geothermal wonderland, the mighty Strokkur geyser stirring from its ancient slumber, ready to put on a show that captivates the heart of every onlooker. With a crescendo of hissing steam and a powerful tremor that resonates through the Earth's crust, Strokkur unleashes a fountain of scalding water, soaring over a hundred feet into the electric-blue sky. The eruption is a display of nature's might and fiery determination that pierces the chilly air with roars and splashes. The crowd gasps in unison, cameras poised to capture the fleeting moment of awe, as the geyser's plume unfurls and gracefully collapses back into the bubbling cauldron from which it emerged. The air is thick with the scent of sulphur, a pungent reminder of the fiery heart that beats beneath the planet's surface. The whispers of anticipation grow louder, for Strokkur is not a one-act performance, but a relentless artist, ready to repeat its dramatic display every few minutes.

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@Icelandic River Scene

Iceland, located north-west of the UK, is an island with a plateau of mountain peaks and glaciers, with fjord-lined coasts. Iceland is roughly the size of Kentucky. This Nordic island has an abundance of landscapes, from the typical Iceland volcanic landscape to glaciers, black sand beaches, glacial rivers, and fields of fumaroles. Iceland is a country that leaves no one indifferent!

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@Greylag Goose

Eiður pointed out to the group a greylag goose, which is the ancestor of most domestic geese and the largest and bulkiest of the wild goose native to the UK and Europe. Greylag geese breed in Iceland and northern and central Europe. In winter, the Iceland population migrates mainly to Ireland and Scotland.
The Greylag Goose is a common sight in Iceland, where it breeds and migrates from in the winter. The population of Greylag geese in Iceland has been growing in recent years.

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@Swimming Puffin

The pets waved to an Icelandic puffin swimming in a nearby lake. Eiður explained that Iceland­ic puff­ins, also known as Atlant­ic puffins, are a popular sight in Ice­land during the summer breed­ing season. They are a migrat­ory bird, spend­ing most of their time at sea and only com­ing to land for breeding. Iceland is home to a large portion of the world's Atlantic puffin popu­lation, with over 60% breeding here.

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@Geyser

The pets had seen several geysers already on their trip, and agreed that an erupting geyser in Iceland is a mesmerising sight. It begins with a gentle bubbling and a rumble, then a powerful jet of boiling water erupts, shooting high into the air, typically 15-20 metres (49-66 feet), and sometimes reaching up to 40 metres (130 feet). The water appears as a white plume of steam and water, creating a dramatic display against the backdrop of the geothermal landscape.

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@Aerial View of Countryside

The group agreed they had visited many areas of incredible natural beauty.

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@Icelandic Fox, summer moult

Eiður told them more about the arctic fox. In Icelandic culture, arctic foxes are a symbol of endurance and resourcefulness. Their beauty and tenacity have earned them a special place in local folklore and the hearts of residents and tourists alike. For wildlife enthusiasts, spotting these elusive creatures in their natural habitat is a rare and unforgettable experience, often involving trips to the remote areas of the island where they thrive.
Today, the arctic fox continues to thrive in Iceland, a testament to their adaptability and resilience. Their presence serves as a reminder of the fragile balance of the Arctic ecosystem and the importance of preserving such unique wildlife for future generations to enjoy.

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@Skógafoss

Skógafoss, explained Eiður, was a prominent waterfall in Iceland, is a 60-metre (200 foot) high cascade that plunges from the Skógá River. Its width of 25 metres (82 feet) adds to its impressive appearance, making it one of the country's largest waterfalls. The waterfall is known for consistently producing mist, often creating a single or double rainbow on sunny days.

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@The Long and Winding Road

Many of the pets dozed off as the coach covered mile after mile in quiet Icelandic scenery. The long, wind­ing road stretched out for miles before you, a ribbon of asphalt un­furling through a land­scape of stark, haunting beauty. The isolation is pro­found, yet comfort­ing, as if the road itself was a passage through time, carry­ing one away from the chaos of civilisation. The foggy horizon was a blend of shift­ing blues and greys, with occasional moss-covered lava fields or the stark white of glaciers in the distance.

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@Kverkfjöll

In Iceland, Eiður explained that motorists drive on the right-hand side of the road and are obliged to use headlights at all times. Traffic in Iceland, particularly outside of urban areas, is generally light, with long stretches of road where you may not encounter other vehicles for a while.

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@Icelandic landscape

The group stopped for their picnic lunch at a stunning spot featuring a mist-capped mountain peak, a large blue lake, and sheep grazing peacefully in a wildflower-strewn meadow. They all agreed it was a most relaxing meal and they were sorry when the driver said it was time to move on.

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@Icelandic Snowscape

A typical Icelandic snowscape features a dramatic contrast between a pristine white blanket of snow and the island's volcanic landscapes. The snow often covers lava fields, glaciers, and mountains, transforming them into a magical winter wonderland. Waterfalls, like Gullfoss and Seljalandsfoss, sometimes freeze, adding intricate ice formations to the scenery.

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@Icelandic Snow Scene

Icelandic householders primarily cope with winter snow by using a combination of personal preparedness, municipal snow clearing, and adapting to the weather conditions. They often utilise specialised vehicles, like Arctic Trucks, for transport­ation, and focus on layer­ing warm clothing. Additionally, they may enjoy the local culture and activities available during the winter months.

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@Icelandic Poppy

Eiður recommended Icelandic poppies for eye-catching, easy-growing plants. He said they were cold-hardy plants, even with their delicate-looking blooms. These perennials were also deer-resistant. The main care requirements for growing Iceland poppies, he said, was to plant in full sun to part shade, make sure the soil is rich and well-draining, avoid watering too much or too little—Iceland poppies prefer evenly moist soil— and to water near the soil to prevent damaging delicate blooms.

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@Lakeside Wild Angelica

Eiður pointed out some more wild angelica, traditionally used as a panacea, treating a range of ailments from colds and flu to digestive issues and even as a treatment for scurvy among sailors. The plant's roots, stems, leaves, and seeds contain essential oils that contribute to its potent medicinal qualities. These oils are particularly rich in compounds like safrole and beta-phellandrene, which give angelica its distinct aromatic flavor and have been shown to have antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Culturally, angelica is deeply embedded in Iceland's folk traditions and myths. It is often linked to the concept of protection and purification, with stories telling of its ability to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune. It was also believed to be a symbol of purity and a gift from the archangel Michael, hence its name. In these narratives, the plant is said to have been sent to Earth to protect humans from the plague and other maladies, which explains its association with healing and guardianship.

In Iceland's culinary world, angelica is celebrated for its versatility. The young stems are candied and used as a garnish for cakes and desserts, while the leaves are sometimes added to salads and soups. The root is often used to flavor Icelandic schnapps, known as "Brennivin," which translates to "burning wine." This potent beverage is a traditional Icelandic spirit and is often served during the midsummer festivals, where the angelica's flavor is thought to cleanse the palate and aid in digestion of rich foods.
The plant also plays a role in the country's national cuisine, particularly in the dish "Hverabræður," which is a type of rye bread that is traditionally baked underground using geothermal heat. Angelica is one of the key ingredients in this bread, lending it a unique and distinctive flavor that is both sweet and earthy.
Today, angelica can be found in various Icelandic products, including liqueurs, jams, and herbal teas. Its essential oil is used in aromatherapy and perfumery, while the dried seeds and leaves are popular in herbal remedies and as a flavoring agent in local dishes.
The angelica plant is not only a symbol of resilience in Iceland's harsh climate but also a testament to the ingenuity of its people, who have harnessed the power of nature to create a legacy of wellness and gastronomy. Whether encountered in the wild or enjoyed in a warm cup of tea, the angelica plant remains an intrinsic part of the Icelandic identity and a testament to the enduring connection between humans and the natural world.

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@Volcanic Landscape

Iceland, said Eiður, was a land defined by its volcanic history, creating a unique and awe-inspiring landscape. The island nation is situated on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge and the Iceland hotspot, resulting in a wide variety of volcanic features. This includes lava fields, geysers, hot springs, rhyolite mountains, and columnar basalt formations. The volcanic activity has also shaped the land­scape through the creation of rift valleys, craters, and even sub-glacial eruptions that form table mountains.

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@Fruity Skyr

The pets were ravenous when they arrived at that night's guesthouse and enjoyed a hearty meal, followed by Icelandic skyr flavoured with fresh berries.

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@Icelandic Kleinur (twisted doughnuts)

Before going to bed, they were served an extra treat of Kleinur, small twists of doughnut. The pets agreed they were the best doughnuts they'd ever tasted!

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