On the way back to Akureyri to re-board the ship, the bus drove by a thermal energy station where they have drilled down into the earth and are capturing the steam from below. That steam is then pumped through an insulated pipe to the town. The water is about 85 Celsius. Imagine having hot water at 180 Fahrenheit pumped to your home that you can use for washing and heating your home. It is also used to heat the roads in winter to prevent ice buildup on the streets.
We also drove past my favourite Godafoss falls for a distant view.
There was a stop to take some panoramic views of the town with the Island Princess at the dock.
Then there was a tour through town to see some of the buildings. There are not a lot of trees that are suitable for building homes so many homes are prefabricated and shipped over from Norway. Some have correlated iron cladding to protect the lumber beneath. Concrete is popular now for new construction.
The town is growing quickly. Because of low cost energy from the steam turbines many high-tech companies are looking to build massive online data storage facilities.
Did you notice the town is at the base of a volcano?
Thanks for your photographs of Iceland. I love the picture in your header. Although I’m fascinated with the place I’m not sure I want to go there. Perhaps, I can do like you, visit as part of a cruise.
Sometimes I don’t get to visit your blog until early morning and what a way to start my day! Your blogs are like a tourist guide and so beautiful again today!
Tomorrow you will wake up in Gunderfjordur, Iceland. Don’t miss the bus.
Great work!
Thanks, Patti, do you travel very much?