DYNJANDI WATERFALL
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 o¶ering 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 Isafjordur 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 named 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 Isafjordur, 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 skilful retellings — and the sheer atmosphere of the landscape provides the perfect mystical mood. Michele Wright’s love of writing began at the age of 12 when her grandfather gave her a typewriter. Discovering the world was a fascinating place, she started merging her twin passions — writing and travel. Michele lives in Hampshire, UK with her husband and teenage sons.
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