Iceland traveller's guide
Europe's least-populated country lies just to the south of the
Arctic Circle where the North Atlantic and Arctic oceans meet.
Despite this northerly location, Iceland's sub-arctic maritime
climate is comparatively hospitable and features four distinct
seasons. Spring; April and May, is bright and dry but prone to
cooling winds. Summer, from June to August sees the sunniest and
warmest weather when temperatures can fall anywhere between 10-25
°C (50-77 °F). Autumn; September and October can bring unceasing
rain and gale force winds, whilst from November to March daylight
can last as little as four hours and varying degrees of cold can
see rain become snow at short notice.
Despite, or perhaps because of, the weather Icelanders are
friendly and hospitable and like nothing more than enjoying a good
time with friends old and new. Historically dependent on fishing
and whaling as its chief source of income, Iceland has moved with
the times and whilst fishing is still important to the economy
service industries and tourism are also significant
contributors.
Icelandic cuisine is influenced by the country's abundance of
seafood and sheep, which apparently outnumber the human population
by four to one. A whole or half sheep's head served with vegetables
is a popular dish at celebrations, but smoked or roasted cuts of
lamb are more commonly found. Other popular meats include ptarmigan
(like grouse), reindeer, puffin and very occasionally seal or whale
meat. Icelandic seafood is renowned for its quality as the waters
surrounding the country are virtually pollution free and visitors
on an Iceland cruise with Great Rail Journeys may enjoy everything
from pickled herring to fresh lobster although haddock, place and
halibut are among those fish most regularly eaten. Icelandic
cuisine provides many opportunities for trying new and unusual
dishes and local specialities. However, Icelandic menus may not
always feature English translations. For advice and recommendations
on what to eat in Iceland our Tour Manager will be happy to
help.
Although summer is the best time, whale-watching from Reykjavík
is possible at any time of year.
