The Back Streets of Isafjörður
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Port
Isafjordur, Iceland
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
Information Not Currently Available
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$69
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 2 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Join us on a walk around the town of Isafjordur, the capital of Iceland’s Westfjords region which was founded by Viking settlers and grew as an important trading centre with an economy based on fishing.
This walking tour will take us along the back streets that are the historic heart of Isafjordur. Lining many of the town’s quaint streets you can still find many great examples of timber-framed houses that were constructed over 300 years ago. Their tin roofs and brightly painted boards look as fresh as ever against the town’s stark landscape.
We’ll walk to the town’s modern church, built to replace the old one that had been destroyed by fire in 1987. Consecrated in 1995, it was designed by architect Grobjarture Grobjarsson, its structure forming a shape reminiscent of the ocean waves - a tribute to the livelihood of the local population.
We’ll also walk to the Westfjords Heritage Museum, located in the town’s harbour area. As we do so, we’ll pass by the town hall and a bronze statue of two fishermen with a net. A monument to all those who have lost their lives at sea, it was designed by the sculptor Ragnar Kjartansson. Situated near the tip of the peninsula on which Isafjordur is located, the heritage and folk museum includes one of the town’s oldest houses, built in 1734. Around it are other buildings that were constructed by foreign traders in the late 18th century.
After our exploration of the museum, we’ll take a leisurely walk back to our ship.
Please note: This is a walking tour and therefore not recommended for guests with limited mobility. Though the route is accessible for guests who use a wheelchair, the restrooms are not. Wear comfortable walking shoes, dress in layers, and bring waterproof outerwear. The guide will not be using a microphone, and the running order of visited sites may vary.This is a walking tour and therefore not recommended for guests with limited mobility. Though the route is accessible for guests who use a wheelchair, the restrooms are not. Wear comfortable walking shoes, dress in layers, and bring waterproof outerwear. The guide will not be using a microphone, and the running order of visited sites may vary.