Copy and images by Michele Wright, Regent Seven Seas Cruises

An island nation of otherworldly beauty, Iceland is steeped in myth and legend. When exploring the country, that lens of Scandinavian folklore and Viking history makes for an enchanting experience.

The modern capital, Reykjavik (“Smoky Bay”), was named by Norsemen due to the columns of steam arising from surrounding geothermal vents. Legend has it the Valkyrie bathed in the hot springs because of the water’s healing properties. One of Reykjavik’s most recognizable landmarks is Hallgrimskirkja, a towering church with excellent views over the city – and you may catch a glimpse of the Valkyrie’s northern lights from the tower.

This role of mythology in Icelandic culture is well showcased at Reykjavik’s National Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts. One fascinating exhibit is a replica of a Viking longhouse with the tools and furnishings used by the ancient inhabitants. The museum also displays the documented Sagas and epic tales of the local people, ancient texts dating back to medieval times.

Discovered during the Viking Age, Iceland was first settled by the Norse and Celts. The country’s extensive history has been chronicled in a revered body of literature that reveals the legacy of the local people, their legends, and family stories. Medieval poems and mythological lays are preserved in manuscript form and narrate heroic deeds, detailing the actions and wisdom of the northern gods and heroes. These Sagas are a proud cultural tradition and a part of modern Iceland and its people.

Land of the Hidden Folk

THREADS OF LEGEND

In Iceland, stories are woven around everything. Strange occurrences are the order of the day and things go bump in the night. The very land on which you stand has a captivating tale of origin. The Norse God, Odin, created the world by killing a giant named Ymir. Ymir’s body became the earth, his blood the sea. An element of the mysterious landscape is the mountain trolls and giants, the hidden people or elves and other fantastical creatures. Iceland’s version of Nessie is a giant underwater worm (last spotted in 2012), and you should be careful not to mistake the tricksy Nykur sea horse for a real horse - or you may be carted off to a watery death.

Memorable landmarks and rock edifices take the shape of trolls – unluckily petrified to stone when caught out in the sun. And some rock faces have startlingly humanoid appearances, very much lending themselves to the tales.

Although there are claims of a high percentage of Icelanders believing in elves, it’s more a case of respecting superstition — and not annoying the folk (just in case). One example is Elf Hill, which had a long history as an elven residence. When a road was being built through the hill, all sorts of things started going weirdly wrong. The elves won that round.

The road was diverted around the hill as the builders decided not to tempt fate (or the powers under the hill) and curved the road around the place. There are many such spots throughout the country — whether shack or landmark — where things are simply left well enough alone.

A CULTURAL FABRIC

Folklore is a force in Icelandic culture, and allowances are made for ancient beliefs. Lore is a way to explain the earth and life because nature is alive and mystical. The country is female, and she feeds and nurtures her children. Bergthor, the giant, met a farmer and requested a drink; to this day, the farmer’s family provides an annual offering of whey to Whey Well - because that’s what’s done. Brimketill, a lava rock pool (and the troll swimming pool) fills with water during high tide and is the ideal place for a troll soak. Stories make sense of a harsh environment and add an appealing magical tone. In fact, trolls have names, family trees and are “known” by historians and locals alike.

In the Westfjords region, the remote town of Isafjodur lies nestled in a fjord. Surrounded by exquisite natural mountains which ascend out of the sea, the area’s natural beauty provides a wonderful setting to immerse yourself in Iceland’s stories. Many of these mountains boast enchanting names — such as Snaefell or “Snow Mountain,” the dwelling place of trolls. The Dynjandi waterfall is called after a giantess who fell in love with the wrong man and was forced to flee. The fall is her bridal veil, the water’s thunderous sound, her tears. Or, as another legend would have it, the noisy “Thunderer” lives beneath the water — along with a whole host of monsters. Probably not somewhere you want to take a dip, either way.

The town of Isafjodur, with its rich maritime history, is an interesting place to explore. It boasts several museums and galleries displaying Icelandic art and unveiling the culture.

From Viking sagas to stunning natural wonders, Iceland is a place where past and present come together in a truly magical way. Legends of wizards, ghosts and weird creatures are all brought to life through skillful retellings — and the sheer atmosphere of the landscape provides the perfect mystical mood.