Wild and rugged, uncompromising and mesmerizingly beautiful, geologically and volcanically active, a place of thermal springs, mountains, valleys, rivers and waterfalls: the incredible island of Iceland is all of these things. In addition, – as everybody surely knows – the island’s craggy mountainsides provide a comfortable home for the world’s remaining trolls, those formidable creatures of Norse mythology. According to a legend told by the locals of Ísafjörður, a huge troll once lived in the area and one day, he decided to go for a walk in the fjord. However, soon getting tired from all the exercise, the troll spotted a nice tall mountain high above the town that looked like the perfect spot to have a rest. However, when the thickset troll sat down, his incredible weight squashed part of the mountainside, leaving a large indentation that remains visible to this day: the so-called Troll’s Throne, or Naustahvilft, Its proper name. Situated only a few hundred feet up the mountain from the port, the Troll’s Throne is a popular hiking destination for tourists and locals alike. Your walking experience up to the bowl-like “throne,” which was actually formed by a glacier, will take you over ideal hiking terrain: a good mixture of grass, soil and sheep-trodden paths. Once at the top, you will be rewarded with wonderful views over the port and the picturesque fjord. Your return hike back down the mountain to your ship marks the end of this troll-themed tour.
Please note: Wear sturdy walking shoes and warm clothing.