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Scandinavia & the Baltic
Helsinki, Finland
Cruise into one of the worlds most beautiful harbours, right into the heart of one of Europes most exciting cities. Packed with shops, sights, bars and restaurants, this chic metropolis will have you hooked from the word go. Get ready to be impressed...
Isafjord, Iceland
Encased in the awe-inspiring scenery of the Westfjords peninsula, this chocolate box coastal town dates back to the 9th century. Its a tranquil little place where life operates at a deliciously lazy pace. Cocooned in the heart of the rugged West Fjord, the islands and inlets nearby are a magnet for wildlife with a host of rare sea birds making a home here.
" Make a beeline for the historical centre. Its an architectural feast, with
treasures like Senate Square, City Hall, the Presidential Palace and the Opera House all jostling for your attention. " When youve had your fill of sights, take a wander through Gardenia, Helsinkis lush tropical gardens. " Set aside some time for the Ateneum, the National Gallery of Finland. Its where youll find Finnish and European art from the 1700s right through to the 1960s.
" Call in at the Maritime Museum, whose four 18th-century buildings house
lots of interesting artefacts linked to the local fishing industry.
" Talking of fishing, take a stroll along the peaceful harbour and watch
fishermen bringing in the days catch, plucked from the icy waters of the Denmark Strait. " Arm yourself with a set of binoculars and go on the hunt for seabirds. Your search will take place against the backdrop of mountains & glaciers. Superb. " Like a sparkling emerald in a sea of sapphires, Vigur Island is a green oasis in the glassy waters of the Isafjardardjup fjord. All sorts of birds flock to its serene shores, including puffins, Arctic terns and black guillemots, making it a real hit with twitchers. Plus, its home to Icelands one and only windmill which dates back to 1840. " If natural beauty is your thing, dont miss Isafjordur. The views around here are phenomenal. The mountains of the Djup - the largest fjord in the western fjords - are worth a roll of film alone. The same is true of the Valley of Tungudalur, famous for its mountain river. This is seriously breathtaking scenery.
Honningsvag, Norway
Tucked deep inside the Arctic Circle on the island of Mageroya, this Norwegian delight is Europes most northerly point. Prepare to be blown away by the soul-stirring views.
" Stand on the 1,000 foot high cliffs at the Northern Cape to see what
many have written about but few have seen - the Midnight Sun. Hanging above the Arctic Ocean, the sun casts its ever-present eerie glow. Its a sight youll never forget.
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