Lead Pricing
| VI - Suite |
|---|
|
AU $12,200 per person
|
Art inspires. Awakens your emotions and stimulates your thoughts.
In the quiet calm of morning, your private veranda becomes a place of true inspiration. Surrounded by the magnificence of the dawning day, at one with the vista of sea and sky, in awe of nature and the vast beauty of this world. The shoreline of the next port slides closer and closer into view, and with it an undeniable anticipation of things to come and the promise of limitless possibilities.
Silversea creates exceptional ocean journeys with unique opportunities to explore remote ports-of-call from an intimate haven of incomparable luxury, each voyage a unique masterpiece. Discover genuine European expertise reflected in every detail, from our tranquil all-suite accommodation and uncompromising service to distinctive fine dining and a carefree all-inclusive philosophy.
Our guests hail from across the globe, yet share an appreciation for the spectrum of choice offered in Silversea’s array of exotic destinations and exclusive explorations ashore. By blending these elements together with enrichment experiences, each new port becomes more than a destination, it becomes a state of mind, transcending the traditional concepts of cruising. It is this distinction that has earned Silversea the reputation of World’s Best.
ALL-INCLUSIVE VALUE
COMPLIMENTARY BEVERAGES SERVED THROUGHOUT THE SHIP An extensive selection of fine wines, champagne, spirits, bottled water and soft drinks are yours to enjoy — all courtesy of Silversea.
IN-SUITE BEVERAGE CABINET STOCKED WITH OUR COMPLIMENTS Besides the chilled bottle of champagne that awaits you, every suite features a beverage cabinet stocked with your preferred assortment of complimentary beverages.
COMPLIMENTARY IN-SUITE DINING AND 24-HOUR ROOM SERVICE A formal dinner served course-by-course, a late-night snack, or a full breakfast delivered at your request — with no charge and no tipping.
COMPLIMENTARY SILVERSEA EXPERIENCE® A shoreside event exclusively for Silversea guests on select voyages. Recent outings have included dinner in the desert in Namibia and a concert at the ruins of Ephesus.
A FULL SPECTRUM OF ENTERTAINMENT AND ENRICHMENT Production shows, classical concerts, and folkloric performances. Multi-tiered show lounge. Lectures by world affairs experts, renowned authors and destination specialists.
COMPLIMENTARY TRANSPORTATION INTO TOWN Roundtrip transportation from the pier to the heart of town in most ports of call.
Silversea … The art of travel. The art of good living.
A quiet sanctuary. The sitting area of the Vista suite has plenty of room to relax.
Large picture windows frame panoramic ocean views.
The perfect backdrop for breakfast in bed during the cruise.
One bedroom: 287 ft² / 27m²
Features
Large picture window providing panoramic ocean views
Sitting area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized bathtub
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
One hour complimentary WiFi access per guest/per day
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Dry cleaning and pressing service (fee applies)
A Silversea signature, the Veranda Suite is spacious and welcoming. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a furnished private teak veranda. Each spectacular sunset feels like it is yours alone.
Some Veranda Suites on the Silver Whisper accommodate three guests.
One bedroom: 345 ft² / 32m² including veranda
Features
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Sitting area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized bathtub
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm clock with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
One hour complimentary WiFi access per guest/per day
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Dry cleaning and pressing service (fee applies)
A Silversea signature, the Veranda Suite is spacious and welcoming. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a furnished private teak veranda. Each spectacular sunset feels like it is yours alone.
Some Veranda Suites on the Silver Whisper accommodate three guests.
One bedroom: 345 ft² / 32m² including veranda
Features
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Sitting area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized bathtub
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm clock with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
One hour complimentary WiFi access per guest/per day
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Dry cleaning and pressing service (fee applies)
A Silversea signature, the Veranda Suite is spacious and welcoming. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a furnished private teak veranda. Each spectacular sunset feels like it is yours alone.
Some Veranda Suites on the Silver Whisper accommodate three guests.
Veranda 3 and 4 offer preferred central location with identical accommodation to Veranda 1 and 2.
One bedroom: 345 ft² / 32m² including veranda
Features
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Sitting area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized bathtub
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm clock with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
One hour complimentary WiFi access per guest/per day
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Dry cleaning and pressing service (fee applies)
A Silversea signature, the Veranda Suite is spacious and welcoming. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a furnished private teak veranda. Each spectacular sunset feels like it is yours alone.
Some Veranda Suites on the Silver Whisper accommodate three guests.
Veranda 3 and 4 offer preferred central location with identical accommodation to Veranda 1 and 2.
One bedroom: 345 ft² / 32m² including veranda
Features
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Sitting area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized bathtub
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm clock with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
One hour complimentary WiFi access per guest/per day
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Dry cleaning and pressing service (fee applies)
A mark of distinction. Sumptuous. Spacious. Rich textures and panoramic views surround you with distinguished luxury.
An extravagant suite for an extravagant cruise.
One bedroom: 521 ft² / 49m² including veranda
Features
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Living room with sitting area and dining area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool bathtub
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Free WiFi
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at Officer’s Table
Stylish and sophisticated. Separate dining and living rooms. Larger verandas. Situated midship.
Perfection in design for comfortable living.
Silver Suites accommodate three guests.
One bedroom: 653–701 ft² / 61–65m² including veranda
Features
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Living room (with convertible sofa to accommodate an additional guest)
Sitting area
Separate dining area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, full-sized bath and separate shower
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking system
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Free WiFi
Flat screen TV(s)
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Stately describes the Royal suite. Commanding and majestic. Perfect for entertaining while you cruise. Enough living space to roam.The pinnacle of good living. Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two-bedrooms (as illustrated) by adjoining with a Veranda Suite.
One bedroom: 967–1,007 ft² / 90–94m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 1,312–1,352 ft² / 122–126m² including veranda
SUITE FEATURES:
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two-bedroom has additional veranda
Living room with sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area
Separate dining area and bar
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool tub, plus a powder room; Two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Unlimited Premium Wifi
Flat screen TV(s)
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Expertly designed and exquisitely appointed. Ideal for entertaining friends on your luxury cruise or enjoying a quiet dinner “at home”. Available as a one-bedroom suite configuration or as two-bedrooms (as illustrated) by adjoining with a Veranda Suite.
One bedroom: 941–1,090 ft² / 87–101m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 1,286–1,435 ft² / 119–133m² including veranda
SUITE FEATURES:
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two-bedroom has additional veranda
Living room with sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area
Separate dining area and bar
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathrooms with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool tub, plus a powder room; Two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Unlimited Premium Wifi
Flat screen TV(s)
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
The name says it all. A stylish apartment. Prestigious and classic, as is the Silver Whisper itself. For those who seek the superlative level of space, comfort and service on board. Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two-bedrooms (as illustrated) by adjoining with a Vista Suite.
One bedroom: 919 ft² / 85m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 1,264 ft² / 117m² including veranda
SUITE FEATURES:
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two-bedroom has additional large picture window
Living room with sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area
Separate dining area and bar
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathrooms with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool tub, plus a powder room; two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Unlimited Premium Wifi
Flat screen TV(s)
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Stately describes the Royal suite. Commanding and majestic. Perfect for entertaining while you cruise. Enough living space to roam.The pinnacle of good living. Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two-bedrooms (as illustrated) by adjoining with a Veranda Suite.
One bedroom: 967–1,007 ft² / 90–94m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 1,312–1,352 ft² / 122–126m² including veranda
Features
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two-bedroom has additional veranda
Living room with sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area
Separate dining area and bar
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool tub, plus a powder room; Two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Free WiFi
Flat screen TV(s)
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Expertly designed and exquisitely appointed. Ideal for entertaining friends on your luxury cruise or enjoying a quiet dinner “at home”.
Available as a one-bedroom suite configuration or as two-bedrooms (as illustrated) by adjoining with a Veranda Suite.
One bedroom: 941–1,090 ft² / 87–101m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 1,286–1,435 ft² / 119–133m² including veranda
Features
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two-bedroom has additional veranda
Living room with sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area
Separate dining area and bar
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathrooms with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool tub, plus a powder room; Two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Free WiFi
Flat screen TV(s)
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
The name says it all. A stylish apartment. Prestigious and classic, as is the Silver Whisper itself. For those who seek the superlative level of space, comfort and service on board. Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two-bedrooms (as illustrated) by adjoining with a Vista Suite.
One bedroom: 919 ft² / 85m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 1,264 ft² / 117m² including veranda
Features
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two-bedroom has additional large picture window
Living room with sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area
Separate dining area and bar
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathrooms with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool tub, plus a powder room; two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Free WiFi
Flat screen TV(s)
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Complimentary interactive mobile content
The amenities of a grand resort. The charms of a stylish boutique hotel. Silversea’s Millennium Class ships Silver Whisper and sister ship Silver Shadow invite you to enjoy Silversea’s world-class accommodations, shipboard conviviality and warm, individualized service, paired with the enhanced spaces and amenities of a larger ship. Revel in the pampering treatments of an expanded wellness spa, shop the hottest trends from top designers at our shipboard boutiques, and enjoy dynamic full-scale productions in a multi-tiered show lounge. Silver Whisper luxury cruise ship has it all. Design your own schedule … or no schedule at all … Silver Whisper.
Ship Profile & Stats
- Length: 610 Feet
- Tonnage: 28,258 tonnes
- Maiden Voyage: 2001
- Refurbished: 2017
- Passenger Capacity (dbl): 382
- Crew Nationality: International
- Officer Nationality: European
- Dining Staff Nationality: International
- Ship Registration: Bahamas
Ship Facilities
- La Terrazza Restaurant
- Pool Bar
- The Connoisseur’s Corner
- The Bar
- The Show Lounge
- The Restaurant
- Swimming Pool
- Shopping Boutiques
- La Dames by Relais & Chateaux Restaurant
- Casino
- Conference / Card Room
- The Pool Bar
- Library
- Internet Cafe
- The Panorama Lounge
- Jogging Track
- Fitness Centre
- The Spa at Silversea
- Beauty Salon
- The Observation Lounge
- Lifts
Cruise Itinerary
| Date | Activity | Arrive | Depart |
|---|---|---|---|
| 04 Jul '21 | Reykjavik, Iceland |
11:00 PM | |
| 05 Jul '21 | Grundarfjordur, Iceland |
08:00 AM | 07:00 PM |
| 06 Jul '21 | Patreksfjordur, Iceland |
08:00 AM | 06:00 PM |
| 07 Jul '21 | Siglufjorour, Iceland |
08:00 AM | 11:00 PM |
| 08 Jul '21 | Akureyri, Iceland |
08:00 AM | overnight |
| 09 Jul '21 | Akureyri, Iceland |
10:00 PM | |
| 10 Jul '21 | Husavik, Iceland |
07:00 AM | 12:00 PM |
| 11 Jul '21 | Seysdisfjordur, Iceland |
08:00 AM | 11:00 PM |
| 12 Jul '21 | Djupivogur, Iceland |
08:00 AM | 06:00 PM |
| 13 Jul '21 | Heimaey, Iceland |
08:00 AM | 06:00 PM |
| 14 Jul '21 | Reykjavik, Iceland |
07:00 AM |
All itineraries and ports of call at the discretion of the cruise line subject to local weather conditions and may change without notice.
10 Night Cruise sailing return from Reykjavik onboard Silver Whisper.
Iceland is not known as the land of fire and ice for nothing. The country is absolutely stunning – massive glaciers impose, volcanoes murmur beneath your feet and Viking history underscores it all. Travel to the beat of the midnight sun on this tour of the country that is defined by its dramatic landscape and discover why Iceland is the world’s best travel destination.
Highlights of this cruise:
Reykjavik, Iceland
Sprawling ReykjavÃk, the nation’s nerve center and government seat, is home to half the island’s population. On a bay overlooked by proud Mt. Esja (pronounced eh-shyuh), with its ever-changing hues, ReykjavÃk presents a colorful sight, its concrete houses painted in light colors and topped by vibrant red, blue, and green roofs. In contrast to the almost treeless countryside, ReykjavÃk has many tall, native birches, rowans, and willows, as well as imported aspen, pines, and spruces.ReykjavÃk’s name comes from the Icelandic words for smoke, reykur, and bay, vÃk.
Grundarfjorudur, Iceland
As double acts go, Kirkjufellsfoss Waterfall and Kirkjufell Mountain are hard to beat. Said to be Iceland’s most photographed spot, the perfectly symmetrical mountain taper of Kirkjufell complements the roaring waterfall, and is said to be the most photographed spot in Iceland. That’s a bold claim, considering the country’s abundance of natural assets, but this natural duo is an undeniably unique and mesmerising sight. Occasionally, as the sun fades away, a stunning trio is formed, with the northern lights dancing overhead, casting its ethereal green haze over the scene below. Reach the stirring views with a short walk from Grundarfjorudur town, or head out into the wilderness on horseback, along well-trampled bridleways. The mountain is known as Church Mountain, due to its isolated peak, which pierces the sky like a spire.
Patreksfjordur, Iceland
Patreksfjörður is named after St Patrick, spiritual guide of the first settler Orlygur Hrappsson. It’s the biggest town in the southern Westfjords with a population of 600. One of the oldest trading posts in the Westfjords, fishing has traditionally been the primary activity. Today it is the outstanding beauty of this remote area which attract visitors. Where the land meets the sea at the most westerly tip of The Westfjords is the imposing Látrabjarg Cliff. It really is a line of several cliffs, 14kms long and 440ms high, home to simply stunning birdlife. Nesting high up, safe from foxes and other predators, the birds are fearless and provide incredible photographic opportunities from close range. The puffins appear in large numbers but expect to see razor bills, auks, white tailed eagles, artic tern too.
Akureyri, Iceland
Iceland’s Capital of the North is the gateway to a thrilling land of roaring waterfalls, soaring volcanoes and glorious wildlife. It may lie a mere 60 miles from the Arctic Circle, but Akureyi blossoms with a bright, cosmopolitan feel, and explodes into life during the summer months, when its outdoor cafes and open-air bathing spots fill up with visitors ready to immerse themselves in Iceland’s cinematic scenery. Feel the thundering impact of Iceland’s celebrated natural wonders shaking your bones at Godafoss Waterfalls, known as the ‘Waterfalls of the Gods’. Here, the Skjálfandafljót river unleashes a colossal torrent of water over charcoal-black rocks below. Or, find some peace at the Botanical Gardens, which opened in 1957 and offer space for contemplation – amid plants that bloom with unexpected vibrancy, even at this northerly latitude.
Seydisfjordur, Iceland
Seyðisfjörður, a beautiful 19th-century Norwegian village on the east coast of Iceland, is regarded by many as one of Iceland’s most picturesque towns, not only due to its impressive environment, but also because nowhere in Iceland has a community of old wooden buildings been preserved so well as here. Poet MatthÃas Johannessen called Seyðisfjörður a ‘pearl enclosed in a shell’. The community owes its origins to foreign merchants, mainly Danes, who started trading in the fjord in the mid-19th century. But the crucial factor in the evolution of the village was the establishment of the Icelandic herring fishery by Norwegians in 1870-1900. The Norwegians built up a number of herring-fishing facilities, and in a matter of years the little community grew into a boom town. Today, about 800 people live in Seyðisfjörður. The local economy has long been based on the fisheries, while light industry also flourishes.
Heimaey, Iceland
t’s hard to imagine, as you stroll Heimaey’s idyllic streets of white wooden houses, that this island was literally torn apart by a spectacular volcanic eruption, just over 40 years ago. The fact that you can visit incredible Heimaey at all is something of a miracle – because the oozing lava of the Eldfell volcano threatened to seal the harbour off completely. Fortunately, its advance was halted by gallons of seawater, pumped onto it by the plucky islanders, who saved their fishing industry in the process.