Think Iceland is only about ice and snow? Think again! Today, I’m exploring Akureyri, Iceland & the Hánefsstaðaskógur Nature Reserve just north of the town.
???????? My Icelandic Ring Road Trip Playlist → https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL-REWXd2_ciM5T73DYjx-dfsd_Sov7Iny

Known as the "Capital of the North," this vibrant town completely stole my heart, and in this Iceland travel vlog, I’m showing you exactly why it needs to be on your Iceland itinerary!

I kick off my adventure in the vibrant town centre, soaking up the rare Icelandic sunshine before heading over to the iconic Akureyrarkirkja (Akureyri Church) to climb its famous steps. From there, I wander through the charming Akureyri Old Town, marvel at the bustling harbour, and—of course—spot the city's famous heart-shaped traffic lights!

But the adventure doesn't stop there. I jump in the car and take a scenic 30-minute drive north along the breathtaking fjord to find a hidden gem: the Hánefsstaðaskógur Nature Reserve. This exists because Eiríkur Hjartarson bought some land in 1946 and planted trees, flowers and bushes to transform this part of the hillside.

If you love Iceland hiking and peaceful nature, you will adore this spot. I go for a quiet, serene stroll through the forest and cross a truly tremendous, massive wooden bridge (Hánefsstaðir Forest Suspension Bridge) spanning across a rushing river. It is pure magic.

???? This is the twenty-fourth chapter of a solo pilgrimage around Route 1. If you've ever dreamed of visiting the Land of Fire and Ice, or if you’re planning your own Ring Road expedition, hit that SUBSCRIBE button and join me as we head into the wild.

*Chapters*
???? 00:00 Introducing Akureyri
???? 01:04 Heat Shaped Traffic Lights!
???? 03:23 Akureyri History & Town Centre
???? 04:53 Old Town & Culture House Sigurhæðir
???? 07:34 Akureyri Church (Akureyrarkirkja)
???? 09:30 Food & Drink Prices
???? 11:01 Parking & Plans
???? 12:05 Heading North
???? 13:07 Hánefsstaðaskógur Nature Reserve
???? 15:14 The Life & Times of Eiríkur Hjartarson
???? 16:09 Dangerous Animals in Iceland
???? 17:33 Hánefsstaðir Forest Suspension Bridge
???? 18:01 Where Did Iceland’s Forests Go?

*More Info*
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*Soundtrack*
???? Golden Meadows by Marc Torch
???? Here & Now by DonVayei
???? Syrup by Jay Varton
????
???? Music by Epidemic Sound. Get a FREE month here → https://www.epidemicsound.com/referral/cglamf