Located along the Golden Circle route, the UNESCO World Heritage Site Thingvellir National Park is both the historical site of Iceland’s Viking parliament and a geological wonder in its own right. When Viking settlers arrived in the 10th century it was the site they chose as the meeting place of Althingi, the world’s oldest parliament. The unique geology created a natural amphitheatre perfect for public speaking including the high rock wall of Logberg. Here the laws of the land would be recited from memory.

Another main landmark on the Golden Circle route is stunning Gullfoss. Impressive and spellbinding, it is one of the biggest and most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland.

After four days of exploring the wonders of Iceland, off we went across the Norwegian sea and to the fjords of Norway. The UNESCO-protected Geirangerfjord is surrounded by captivating snow-covered mountain peaks, wild waterfalls and lush, green vegetation. Cruising the fjords aboard a catamaran, you hear the thunderous, almost deafening sound of the powerful waterfalls cascading down the sides of the mountain. The MS/Geirangerfjord gets us up and close with the “Seven Sisters,” the most famous waterfall in the Geiranger Fjords. Mother Nature in all its glory. Truly a sight to behold.

We make our way along the Sognefjord until we reach Bergen, the second largest city in Norway. We are greeted by the iconic colourful facade of Bryggen upon our arrival. Sitting along the harbour are Medieval Hanseatic buildings dating back to the 14th century. The picturesque wooden structures, rebuilt following a fire in 1702, later became recognised as a vital part of Bergen’s cultural heritage, and also the world’s, as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

A Norwegian girl plays the violin on a sidestreet and the sound of music wafts softly in the air while we stroll along the wharf, visiting a small museum, some speciality shops, and restaurants.

Because of the country’s extensive coastline, traditional sea industries have been extremely important to Norway’s economy and cultural life throughout the centuries. With the busiest seaport in the country, it is only natural that Bergen is the go-to place for fish and seafood. A must is the outdoor Fish Market in the middle of the city centre and experience one of Norway’s most-visited outdoor attractions.

Majestic waterfalls, geysers, mountains, hot springs, glaciers, and fjords make up our sojourn to the Northern Cape. Breathing in the clean air and feeling the crisp wind engulf you, the only thoughts left in your possession are of admiration, appreciation, and gratitude for life’s wonders. The soul is refreshed, restored, and renewed. And the adage rings true, “To walk in nature is to witness a thousand miracles.”

This article was originally published in Philippine Tatler Traveller Volume 16