Journey through Northern Frontiers: From Iceland to Canada

Day 1 - Reykjavík

Reykjavík, Iceland: Sprawling Reykjavík, Iceland's vibrant capital, serves as the nation's nerve centre and seat of government, housing half the island's populace. Nestled in a bay and watched over by the majestic Mt. Esja, Reykjavík presents a picturesque landscape with its colourful concrete houses topped by vibrant red, blue, and green roofs. Unlike the almost treeless countryside, the town boasts tall native trees and some imported varieties. Steeped in history from its Norse beginnings in 874 AD, the city creatively uses geothermal hot springs for house heating, ensuring minimal air pollution. Prices match those of major European cities, making the Reykjavík City Card a savvy choice for unlimited access to buses, pools, the Family Park and Zoo, and museums. Art enthusiasts can enjoy free same-day admission to the city's acclaimed art museums with a single entry ticket.

Day 3 - Prince Christian Sound

Prince Christian Sound, Greenland: The passage through Prince Christian Sound is a remarkable voyage highlight, offering a breathtaking journey connecting the Labrador Sea with the Irminger Sea. Named after King Christian VII, this 60-mile-long fjord harks back to a bygone era with its towering, snow-capped mountains, sheer cliffs, and rolling hills. The serene passage is a step back in time, where the silence is only broken by the gentle lapping of Arctic waters and the mesmerizing sight of ancient icebergs drifting by. Warm clothing is essential to fully appreciate this awe-inspiring spectacle.

Day 4 - Aappilattoq

Aappilattoq, Greenland: Aappilattoq, a quaint settlement near the western end of Prins Christian Sund in southwestern Greenland, offers a glimpse into the Greenlandic Inuit lifestyle with its small population of 130. The settlement's name aptly means "sea anemone" in Greenlandic. Discovering the village reveals simple yet significant facets of daily life: a small school, a church, and perhaps even a polar bear skin drying behind a house. Residents have lived off the land since the 19th century, and hunting and fishing remain the mainstay of their sustenance.

Day 7 - L'Anse aux Meadows

L'Anse aux Meadows, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada: Circa the year 1000, Vikings from Greenland and Iceland established North America's first European settlement at L'Anse aux Meadows. This UNESCO World Heritage site, often a central theme for Viking-themed expeditions, uncovers the story of Leif Erickson and early Norse exploration predating Columbus by 500 years. Today, this remote enclave teeming with history, along with nearby communities, draws tourists keen on Viking lore, natural splendour, and unique wildlife encounters.

Day 8 - Saint John's

Saint John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada: In St. John’s, old-world charm intertwines with modern aesthetics, creating a cityscape of colourful heritage shops, Victorian architecture, and sleek modern buildings. In centuries past, St. John's was known for its bustling salt cod trade. Presently, it is a lively metropolis with a rich arts scene and a distinct pace. It is a testament to its English and Irish roots with a vibrant cultural tapestry.

Day 9 - Saint Pierre

Saint Pierre, Saint Pierre and Miquelon: St. Pierre, a tiny French Overseas Collective with just about 6,000 inhabitants, offers a fascinating fusion of Norman, Basque, and Breton influences. This quaint island boasts two museums partly dedicated to Prohibition and claims the unique distinction of having housed North America's only guillotine. The locals predominantly speak a Metropolitan French dialect, and visitors can easily explore or head to the conspicuous Post Office—known by its monk-shaped clock tower.

Day 10 - Miquelon Island

Miquelon Island, Saint Pierre and Miquelon: Miquelon Island forms part of the French archipelago near the Newfoundland coast and offers a tranquil experience with its lush greenery. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts will delight in the island's rich flora and fauna, while exploring the island's charming villages provides insight into the local lifestyle and cultural roots.

Day 11 - Cap-aux-Meules

Cap-aux-Meules, Magdalen Islands, Québec, Canada: Cap-aux-Meules, the entry point to the Magdalen Islands, is an inviting destination. Known for its stunning landscapes and vivacious cultural life, visitors will enjoy discovering the island's sandy beaches, red cliffs, and exploring quaint fishing villages. The cultural heart of the Magdalen Islands, it provides an ideal blend of nature and culture to explore.

Day 13 - Tadoussac

Tadoussac, Québec, Canada: Positioned at the confluence of the Saguenay River and the St. Lawrence River, Tadoussac is steeped in history and surrounded by scenic beauty. Visiting the town offers a gateway to rich wildlife encounters, including whale watching, thanks to its abundant krill supply. As the site of New France's first trading post, it is a preservation of historical legacy with modern endeavours to honour its storied past.

Day 14 - Montréal

Montréal, Québec, Canada: Montréal, Canada's vibrant metropolis, blends old-world elegance and modern charm. Known for its lively cultural scene with innumerable festivals, the city thrives all year round, from summer jazz to winter festivities like Montréal en Lumière. The splendours of old Montréal and the bustling energy of downtown offer a dynamic escape filled with history, art, and an eclectic social scene.

Day 16 - Toronto

Toronto, Ontario, Canada: Arrive in the bustling metropolis of Toronto, Canada's largest city, known for its vibrant diversity and rich cultural landscape. With soaring skyscrapers, world-class museums, and a very active arts scene, Toronto offers a plethora of activities and sights, making for an impressive culmination to your expedition holiday.