The Snaefellsness Peninsula

July 30, 2010

Arnarstapi, a fishing hamlet

Icelandic horses are a breed unique to Iceland. They are small and have thick manes and tails. The Icelandic horse is a "five-gaited" breed, known for its sure-footedness and ability to cross rough terrain. As well as the typical gaits of walk, trot, and canter/gallop, the breed is noted for its ability to perform two additional gaits. The first additional gait is a four-beat lateral ambling gait known as the tölt. This is known for its explosive acceleration and speed; it is also comfortable and ground-covering. The breed also performs a pace called a skeið, flugskeið or "flying pace". It is used in pacing races, and is fast and smooth, with some horses able to reach up to 30 miles per hour.

Arnarstapi
Arnarstapi
Arnarstapi Fishing village
Arnarstapi

Djupalonssandur

Djupalonssandur is a beautiful pebbled beach, with a series of rocks of mysterious form emerging from the ocean.

Djupalonssandur
Djupalonssandur
Djupalonssandur

On board ship

These cliffs are the west-most part of Iceland

cliffs
cliffs