July 7 – Ísafjörður, Iceland | Sky Princess Cruise
Tucked within the rugged beauty of Iceland’s Westfjords, the remote town of Ísafjörður welcomed us with a crisp breeze, brooding skies, and an entirely new sense of drama compared to our previous ports in Norway. The towering mountains, streaked with mist and shadow, hinted at the raw and wild character of this region.
Our day’s adventure led us deep into the fjords, where we hiked part way to one of Iceland’s most breathtaking natural wonders—Dynjandi waterfall, also known as Fjallfoss or “the mountain falls.” Unlike the narrow, ribbon-like waterfalls we had seen in Norway, Dynjandi spread out in a wide, powerful cascade, its fan-shaped veil tumbling down 100 meters of ancient basalt rock. You can hear it long before you see it—roaring as it pours down in tiers like nature’s bridal train.
On our way back toward Ísafjörður, our guide pointed out a striking rock formation called “The Troll’s Seat” (Tröllsæti). According to local folklore, a giant troll sat here overlooking the fjord, contemplating the sea and the mountains. As the legend goes, she was caught by the rising sun and turned to stone—forever perched in thought. Icelandic tales like these bring the landscape to life, making every ridge and boulder feel steeped in myth.
Adding to the magic of the day, we were able to see some of the filming locations used in Game of Thrones, where scenes “Beyond the Wall” were shot. The wild, windswept cliffs and glacier-carved terrain were the perfect backdrop for the show’s most dramatic moments—and seeing it in person gave us a new appreciation for the raw power of this land. No special effects needed.
Compared to Norway’s lush green fjords and quaint towns, Iceland felt wilder—more primal. It’s not just the absence of trees or the stark volcanic landscape; it’s the sense of being at the edge of the world, where stories are etched in stone and water, and where nature still calls the shots.
If you’re ever cruising the North Atlantic and Ísafjörður is on your itinerary, don’t miss the hike to Dynjandi. It’s not just a waterfall—it’s an experience. And along the way, you might just glimpse a troll or two.
