Viking Cruises

37 | Viking Explorer Society News Iceland: An Unlikely FOODIE DESTINATION Iceland has been at the top of my travel list for years, and for one reason—to cast my eyes over its epic landscapes. But while conducting some pre-trip research for our 13-day Iceland's Majestic Landscapes voyage, a surprising discovery was made: Iceland also boasts a fascinating food culture. Soon the list of must-try foods, from savoury regional dishes to bizarre local delicacies and sweet treats, outnumbered the waterfalls we wanted to visit. And so, what began as a landscape- lover's dream became an unforgettable culinary journey, too. Hákarl Our voyage and culinary exploration began in Reykjavík, the first stop on our journey around Iceland. Just steps from the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Church, Café Loki served up one of Iceland's most talked-about dishes: Hákarl, or fermented Greenland shark. It undergoes a unique fermentation and drying process to remove toxins from the meat, resulting in the strong smell and taste of ammonia. It's traditionally served with a shot of Brennivín, a potent aquavit known locally as "Black Death". Like many, including Gordon Ramsay, it wasn't to our taste—but we were glad to have embraced the bold spirit of Iceland's national dish. The Iconic Icelandic Hot Dog No trip to Iceland is complete without a visit to Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, Reykjavik's iconic hot dog stand. These beloved pylsur are made with a distinctive lamb-beef-pork blend and are best tried with "the lot", topped with crispy and raw onions, ketchup, mustard and remoulade. Former US Presidents and pop stars have queued here, and after the first bite, we understood why. Harðfiskur If one food truly defines Iceland, it is harðfiskur. This unique Icelandic snack is made from dried fish, typically haddock, wolffish, or cod, and is a nutritious staple dating back to the Viking Age when drying fish was essential for food preservation. You may even spot the While Iceland is world-renowned for its impressive landscapes, geothermal marvels and roaring waterfalls, it is also home to a fascinating and often unexpected culinary culture. Viking Marketing Executive Cally Templeton shares her favourite foodie finds and exactly where to taste them. Clockwise, from top: Tasting plate at Cafe Loki; Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur stand in Downtown Reykjavík; Cally tasting Hakarl & Black Death

• Cover