Bjarnarhofn Shark Farm & Helgafell
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Port
Grundarfjordur, 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)
$230
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 3½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Get acquainted with Icelandic legends, stunning topography and local culture on this captivating half-day outing.
Kick off with a panoramic drive to Berserkergata -- a massive, 4,000-year-old lava field so stark and dramatic it looks like it could be from another world. This distinctive setting serves as the backdrop for a 9th-century Viking saga.
Journey on to Bjarnarhöfn Shark Farm. Meet the grandson of Hildibrandur -- the original owner of the shark farm. He will share the secret of the traditional process of preparing shark meat, which involves allowing the meat to cure for months. The end product is hákarl -- an Icelandic delicacy dating back 400 years. Step inside the unconventional Maritime Museum, where you'll see large chunks of fermenting shark meat. Try a sample of hákarl -- not for the faint of heart -- and wash it down with the local Brennivin schnapps, whose name means 'Black Death'. Might these two acquired tastes be the origin of the saying, "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger?"
Your adventure continues with a visit to Helgafell -- the holy mountain that plays a prominent role in the Laxdaela Saga. This summit of this rocky, 240-foot-tall mound once held a temple dedicated to Thor, the Norse god of thunder. Today, a parsonage dating back to 1904 resides at its base.
Back on the road, relish a panoramic drive through Stykkisholmur -- the Snæfellsnes Peninsula's largest town. Excellent fishing, access to the fjords, outdoor excursions and breathtaking views bring visitors to this town that also features wonderfully preserved traditional Icelandic homes and structures. Take photos here so that you'll remember this distinctive way of life that is so close at hand.
Please note: Minimum age to drink alcohol is 20 years. Wear comfortable walking shoes. It is essential that you wear warm, layered clothing in order to fully enjoy and participate in this excursion. Outer layer should be waterproof and windproof. Bring gloves, a warm hat and a scarf. All views are weather permitting and are not guaranteed. Parents traveling with children under the age of 3 must rent a child's car seat from the tour operator; please see the Destinations staff on board. You cannot use your car seat from home in Iceland.