Crossbill Guide : Iceland

Iceland is becoming an increasingly popular destination for birdwatchers but anyone who just looks at Harlequin Ducks and Grey Phalaropes is missing a lot.  This Crossbill guide by Dirk Hilbers and his team fills in the gaps for people who want to see spectacular geological features, photograph flowers, understand the history of the country or find the best spots for food and whales.  I am looking forward to going to see “a very large population of Windmill Fringed Gentian” just a short walk from a road I know really well.

The book is made up of three main sections: Landscape runs from geology to nature conservation (66 pages), there are 44 pages on Flora & Fauna, which is adequate, and a Practical Part of 110 pages that provides the core information about where to go and what to see.  This balance reflects the aims of The Crossbill Guides Foundation: to increase public involvement with nature conservation.

For a great holiday all you need is this book, a road map, a reliable car and a common sense approach to the weather and road conditions.  And don’t forget to check waders, geese and swans for colour-rings!

Book reviewed by Graham Appleton