Isles
of the North

In the southwest of Iceland near Faxaflói Bay lies the capital of the country, Reykjavík, simultaneously cosmopolitan and charming. The colorful houses on the horizon create a quaint scene that will make you want to stay forever. Kaleidoscopic views await you at the Harpa Concert Hall, a glittering, glass structure that perfectly exemplifies Iceland’s modern design and will fascinate your inner architect. One of Iceland’s most prominent landmarks is Perlan, originally a group of hot water tanks that was converted to a building that now hosts an exhibition, planetarium, restaurant and observation deck, located atop Öskjuhlíð hill.

Say halló to volcanoes, lava fields, caves, and mountains in the fascinating island of Heimaey - literally translated as Home Island. Part of the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago (Westman Islands), this destination offers views of lush cliffsides and classic Icelandic architecture that will take your breath away. Built around the remains of an excavated home buried by ash during Eldfell’s eruption you’ll find the Eldheimar Museum, which offers an excellent audio guide that takes you through the home and describes the history and events before, during and after the eruption. One of the most iconic landmarks of Vestmannaeyjar, Elephant Rock, lies just off the south coast of Iceland. And there’s no need to squint to see it, because from every angle, you can see a gargantuan elephant in the middle of the sea.

The picturesque fishing village of Höfn takes you and other explorers off the beaten path with its surroundings of soaring mountains and stunning glaciers. Where most expeditions make the town a detour, our intimate yacht navigates the remote waterways to make it one of your entrancing destinations. Discover its rich cultural and natural history at sites such as Vatnajökull National Park, the Information Center in Gamlabúð and the Hornafjörður Maritime Museum. Take a trek out to Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon, where glittering icebergs and pearly waters inspire a sense of awe as you experience the moment with fellow explorers. About an hour away lies the unbelievable scenes of Diamond Beach, a stretch of black sands with crystalline pieces of ice from Jökulsárlón washed up on shore, creating a mesmerizing contrast. Sitting within Hornafjorður, the lobster capital of northern Europe, dive into the regional specialty, langoustines, at a local restaurant, sharing your culinary adventures with other foodies..

Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore

The harbor town of Stornoway is your gateway for an unforgettable adventure. Steeped in history and culture, ranging back thousands of years, you’ll find that Gaelic is spoken alongside English, and eagles and otters are as much residents as the locals. For a complete account of the social, cultural, archaeological, geological, and economic history of Stornoway, head to Museum nan Eilean. A drive along the west coast of the Isle of Lewis reveals the Neolithic standing stones at Callanish that are older and more impressive than Stonehenge. Comprising 19 monoliths, ending in a circle of 13 stones with rows of other stones radiating out in the shape of a cross, this site is fascinating.

The capital of the Isle of Mull, Tobermory, welcomes you with colorful shops, cafes and houses lined along the picturesque harbor. Sitting amid the Scottish Inner Hebrides, this old fishing village offers stunning landscapes, including golden eagles overhead and dolphins and minke whales in the water. Gather your fellow explorers for a trek along the bay in search of the town’s namesake, Mary’s Well (Tobermory in Gaelic), a stone structure marked with a Celtic cross dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Local history comes to life at the Mull Museum, but legend holds just as much allure with tales of a sunken Spanish galleon filled with gold and treasure lying below the harbor waves. Discover local artists and the art scene at An Tobar and Mull Theater, filled with exhibitions, workshops and activities that engage the senses. Raise a glass to the Scottish tradition of whisky with new friends at Tobermory Distillery, one of Scotland’s oldest established in the 1790s.

Between Ireland and Great Britain in the Irish Sea, there’s a small dot of land called the Isle of Man. Douglas is the capital and your gateway to the incredible treasures that this lesser-known Crown Dependency holds. Not only is Isle of Man culturally and historically different from its surrounding islands, but also linguistically diverse, among the many languages Manx, a Gaelic language similar to some types of Irish Gaelic, but unique to the island. Douglas’ lovely seafront can be traversed by horse-drawn trams, but if you prefer speed, this town also delivers with winding roads made for a thrilling motorcycle adventure. After all, this is the home of the International Isle of Man TT (Tourist Trophy) Race.

Ireland’s capital, Dublin, is bustling, cosmopolitan, ancient, and young at heart all at once. It is one of Europe’s liveliest cities, where medieval and 17th-century buildings stand comfortably amid all the trappings of a 21st-century community. Marvels like the incredible Book of Kells, one of the most beautifully illuminated manuscripts in the world, call out to the curious. A gentle and relaxing cruise along the River Liffey immerses you in the capital’s colorful history, from the first arrival of the Vikings to the rapid development of the city during the 18th and 19th centuries. When in Dublin, the Guinness Storehouse, located in the heart of St. James’ Gate Brewery, invites you to raise a glass at the Gravity Bar with a 360-degree view of the city skyline.

The wondrous County Cork is a destination filled with rich heritage. From here, the famed Blarney Castle and its equally renowned stone beckon you for a kiss in exchange for the gift of gab. Whiskey lovers rejoice as Cork is the site of the Old Jameson Distillery, a beautifully restored and self-contained industrial complex taking you to the heart of the cherished whiskey-making tradition. Traverse the bridges arching over the River Lee, taking in the many cathedrals and their ornate gargoyles as you make your way to a typical Irish pub for a taste of the iconic Guinness stout. Near Cork lies the picturesque sailing town of Kinsale with vibrant streetscapes and delicious restaurants. Affectionately known as Ireland’s "real capital" by its proud locals, this city is speckled with bridges that lend it a distinctive European flair and landmarks like St. Fin Barr’s Cathedral that add to its rich tapestry.

Sitting amid the picturesque Wild Atlantic Way of West Cork, Bantry surrounds you with landscapes of rolling hills, lakes, woods and lush pastures. The 17th-century manor known as Bantry House exudes a stately essence, and the gardens on its grounds create a stunning, Edenic scene. Explore the city’s longstanding history with a visit to the ancient megalithic stone circle at Kealkill and Carraiganass Castle. Admire the architecture of the town’s churches at sites like St. Finbarr’s and St. Brendan The Navigator Church of Ireland. Bantry’s culture holds a great passion for equestrianism, making it an ideal destination for a pony trek across panoramic views. On Fridays, the Bantry Farmers & Craft Market comes alive with local vendors selling fresh produce, fish, eggs, honey and much more.

Ireland’s cultural heart is Galway, or Gaillimh as it’s known in Irish. Situated on the picturesque west coast of the country, you can delight in an array of fascinating experiences set in a breathtaking backdrop. For a different perspective, head underground to Aillwee Cave, with winding passages carved in the limestone from melting water from the Ice Age. On the cultural side, by far the most in-depth overview of all there is to know about the city of tribes can be found at the Galway City Museum. But if you really want to get to know the local life in Galway, make your way to one of its many pubs and grab a pint with the locals.

Killybegs is one of six historic towns in the Donegal region, home to wild landscapes, white sandy beaches, and cozy little pubs. It’s a city that also takes deep pride in its fishing, tapestries, and carpet craft heritage. For an in-depth experience, visit the Killybegs Maritime and Heritage Center, situated at the famous Donegal carpets building, where world famous hand-knotted carpets are made. You can also revel in its natural wonders, like Bá Fhionntrá (Fintragh Bay), a stunning sheltered beach that stretches only about a mile but holds excellent views of Drumanoo Head, Inishduff Island, and Muckross Head.

In Londonderry, you can see the walls everywhere you go. Derry, as it’s referred to locally, is the only completely walled city in Ireland and one of the finest in Europe. Almost 20 feet high and at least as wide, the mile-long oval comes complete with gates, watchtowers, battlements, bastions, and huge cannons. The best way to experience this fascinating fortification is to take a walking tour and hear a local guide bring to life the stories of the brutal 17th century sieges. You can top off your day by raising a glass at the Walled City Brewery.

Within the lush scenes of Northern Ireland’s County Down sits the seaside town of Bangor, close to the heart of Belfast. Delve into the story of the famous RMS Titanic at the Belfast museum and be transported back in time with interpretive materials, media, and a thrilling ride that takes you through recreated shipyards. Or head over to the Ulster Folk Museum, an eye-opening journey to the past that uncovers a way of life from over a century ago. Weave through the verdant counties of Down and Antrim toward the natural splendor of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Giant’s Causeway, a dramatic coastal formation of interlocking basalt columns, the result of ancient volcanic fissure eruptions or, as legend has it, the handiwork of giants. Take the Belfast food trail, led by a knowledgeable guide, for an exploration of the city’s gastronomic hot spots, showcasing its colorful heritage. Back in Bangor, become enchanted by the local, rich history at Bangor Castle and its Victorian gardens..

Ireland’s capital, Dublin, is bustling, cosmopolitan, ancient, and young at heart all at once. It is one of Europe’s liveliest cities, where medieval and 17th-century buildings stand comfortably amid all the trappings of a 21st-century community. Marvels like the incredible Book of Kells, one of the most beautifully illuminated manuscripts in the world, call out to the curious. A gentle and relaxing cruise along the River Liffey immerses you in the capital’s colorful history, from the first arrival of the Vikings to the rapid development of the city during the 18th and 19th centuries. When in Dublin, the Guinness Storehouse, located in the heart of St. James’ Gate Brewery, invites you to raise a glass at the Gravity Bar with a 360-degree view of the city skyline.