DAY 1 – LONDON (SOUTHAMPTON), ENGLAND
Southampton is the largest city and port on the south coast of England. Tour the historic byways of Old Town with its Medieval walls and Tudor architecture. Spend an hour or two meandering along the pathways of Royal Victoria Country Park, picturesquely set along the waterfront on the grounds of a former military hospital where Florence Nightingale once worked. Southampton’s maritime past can be explored by strolling along the Town Quay with its marina and lively bars and restaurants. It was here that the Titanic departed on its fateful journey and where the Mayflower sailed for the New World.
DAY 2 – AT SEA
Enjoy all that Seven Seas Splendor has to offer, whether it’s the cuisine, daytime enrichment activities or the spa or fitness facilities.
DAY 3 – KRISTIANSAND, NORWAY
Discover cosmopolitan Kristiansund with its cultural, tranquil atmosphere, blend of contemporary and traditional architecture, and natural beauty woven throughout and beyond the city set on the shores of a sparkling fjord. Visit the old town, Posebyn, and admire the small, white wooden houses that speak of a bygone era. Stroll along the boardwalk to the town center and Fiskebrygga (fish market), enjoying the maritime history and fresh local seafood.
Visit the Adger Nature Museum and Botanical Gardens for an overview of Norway’s history dating back to the Ice Age. Then go to Markens gate to browse the shops, making a turn onto Skippergada for a selection of smaller boutiques, galleries and cafés. Look for hand-knit sweaters, fine Norwegian glassware and local crafts in this picture perfect setting.
DAY 4 – BERGEN, NORWAY
Situated along the Byfjord, Bergen is Norway’s second largest city, and one of its most charming. The city’s history dates back to the early 11th century when Olav Kyrre established a settlement and royal residence here. In 1240, Bergen replaced Trondheim as the capital, and the city quickly prospered. Much of the city’s architecture today reflects the lifestyle of the Hanseatic merchants, who resided in narrow row houses near the harbor.
DAY 5 – AT SEA
Enjoy all that Seven Seas Splendor has to offer, whether it’s the cuisine, daytime enrichment activities or the spa or fitness facilities.
DAY 6 – SEYDISFJORDUR, ICELAND
Cruising the fjord that ends with picturesque Seydisfjordur, it’s easy to understand how its small populace produces such a thriving artistic community. Surrounded by soaring Mt. Bjólfur (3,560 feet) to the west and Strandartindur (3,314 feet) to the east, with waterfalls cascading in every direction, you’ll undoubtedly feel the transformative powers of this Eastfjords town. A leisurely stroll past smartly painted wooden houses reveals small charms like the Bláa Kirkjan (Blue Church), the quaint star of many a Seydisfjordur photo, that perfectly embody this city’s unique style. Watch for reindeer on hillsides and seals and porpoises in the cold waters.
DAY 7 – AKUREYRI, ICELAND
Explore the big city amenities and small village charm of Akureyri, on the shores of one of the world’s longest fjords encircled by dramatic snow-capped mountains. As you stroll into town visit the newly built “temple of culture,” HOF, which houses a theater, music hall, restaurant as well as the Tourist Information Center. Marvel at the variety of Arctic plants in the Botanical Garden of Akureyri. Stroll along Arts’ Alley meandering through the museum, galleries and artists’ studios. Enjoy the tax-free shop in the town center. Look for fine woolen knitwear, handmade ceramics, glassware, and silver jewelry.
DAY 8 – SIGLUFJORDUR, ICELAND
The former herring capital of the world, Siglufjordur, charms visitors with its eye-catching houses nestled between idyllic mountains and the sea. Stroll the marina to see the fishermen return with the day’s fresh catch. Delve into maritime history at the award-winning Herring Era Museum or hike the stunning Héðinsfjörður fjord. Year-round, soak in the town’s unique geothermal pools with views of the breathtaking fjord surrounding you.
DAY 9 – ISAFJORDUR, ICELAND
Discover the dazzling natural beauty of Isafjordur. With its striking steep mountains on three sides rising dramatically around a gorgeous bay, this is one of the most awe-inspiring places on Earth. Trace the area’s history with a visit to the Maritime Museum in one of the oldest buildings dating back to the 18th century. A delightfully urban atmosphere prevails with major music schools, free concerts and festivals. Bring home fine handmade woolen items, nautical-themed articles, as well as arts and crafts. Feast on fresh baked goods and coffee at one of the many cafés.
DAY 10 – GRUNDARFJORDUR, ICELAND
While the small fishing town of Grundarfjörður is itself a charming place to peruse, it’s perhaps most well-known due its proximity to the most photographed mountain in all of Iceland. Mt. Kirkjufell (Church Mountain) was shaped across millions of years by the force of two glaciers, and today its steeple-like peak casts dramatic shadows at the edge of the sea. A three-pronged waterfall called Kirkjufellsfoss (Church Mountain Falls), often favored as a foreground, completes the epic scene. Visit the town’s information center for exhibits celebrating Grundarfjörður’s importance to Snæfellsnes Peninsula history, as well as photographs by Icelander Bæring Cecilsson (1923-2002).
DAY 11 – REYKJAVIK, ICELAND
Just as Iceland is a unique country, rugged and remote, yet modern and enjoying Nordic standards of affluence, so Reykjavik is a beautifully diverse capital city. As Iceland’s capital and its main center of population, the city of Reykjavik offers a fascinating mixture of the traditional and the very technically advanced. In addition, its natural beauty leaves a lasting impression. Visit the remarkable solfatara fields of Krýsuvík where you’ll discover an expanse of steaming volcanic vents and boiling hot springs, framed dramatically by a range of multi-colored hills.
