Kent Larus Bjornsson has sent more photos and a disptach in preparation of our Iceland Photo Tour – this time from the Snaefellsnes Peninsula:
“Catch it before it is gone – The Glacier Snæfellsjökull is disappearing.
The whole Snæfellsnes peninsula is a breathtaking natural wonder. Maybe that is why much of it has become a National Park. The glacier is shrinking rapidly both in size and thickness and will not be around much longer. Already on the west side in late summer you can hardly tell it is a glacier.
British Trawler Remains
Another favourite spot for me on the peninsula is Djupalonssandur. (Deep lagoon sands). First look it seems like there is a lot of litter in the area, the metal pieces strewn across the sands are very historical. They are the remains of a British Trawler that grounded there. There was talk that they should clean it up but these iron bits of historical significance add to the character. They are constantly moving with the tide and weather – they should be left to nature.
Snaefellsnes
Why not give the lifting stones a try!?
These stones have also been around for a long time. The fishermen would use them to determine who was the strongest and thus who was the best fisherman. There are 4 stones, if someone has not walked off with the smallest. Their names and weights are Fully Strong 154 kg, Half-Strong 100 kg, Weakling 54 kg and Bungler or Useless 23 kg. If 23 kg is all you can handle you would not qualify to be a fisherman in Iceland.
Hiking
The hiking trails around Snæfellsnes are exciting and full of surprises. It is not difficult to spend a week in the area.
Christopher Columbus!
Where did Christopher Columbus get the idea of travelling to North America? It was in this area. It is believed that he visited the area in 1477 and learnt about the Viking voyages to North America. Now is the time to travel in his footsteps!”
Thanks Kent!
Kent’s photos show the stark beauty of the region – look for the remnants of the British trawler! Snaefellsnes also hosts one of the few farms that still prepares arctic shark – the most unusual delicacies I have ever tried – it’s disgusting – and you have to try it when you go!