NATURE HIGHLIGHTS 9
Drangey This rocky island in Skagafjörður is a flat-topped mass of tuff, rising almost 200 meters out of the ocean. The cliffs serve as nesting sites for millions of sea birds and have been used throughout Iceland’s history for egg collection and bird netting. Grettis Saga recounts that both Grettir and his brother Illugi lived in Drangey for three years and were slain there. The island can only be ascended at one spot. Boat tours to the island from Fagranes and Sauðárkrókur.
10
Hjaltadalur
It is in Hjaltadalur valley that one of Iceland’s best-known historical sites, Hólar, is situated. Hólar was the northern bishopric from 1106 as well as the educational capital of the north. The current Cathedral at Hólar was consecrated in 1763. The University in Hólar has been operated since 1882. Pleasant hiking trails and an aquarium.
11
Héðinsfjörður Héðinsfjörður is a deserted fjord, 6 km in length, that cuts into the Tröllaskagi peninsula between Siglufjörður and Ólafsfjörður.This area, with its lake, majestic mountains and hills, is a popular destination for hiking and other outdoor activities. The sister towns belonging to Fjallabyggð community, Siglufjörður and Ólafsfjörður, are now connected by a tunnel that cuts through Héðinsfjörður and was opened in October 2010.
12
Tröllaskagi
A rugged peninsula between Skagafjörður and Eyjafjörður. A maze of mountains, rivers and miniature glaciers. Ideal for hiking in the summer and for extreme winter sports in winter. Guided tours and maps available. 32