Husafell, Iceland Guide
Husafell isn't your typical bustling city; it's a serene oasis nestled in the heart of West Iceland, a place where nature reigns supreme. Imagine a landscape sculpted by ancient lava flows, dotted with lush birch forests, and crowned by the majestic Langjökull glacier. This isn't just a stop on your Icelandic adventure; it's an immersion into the raw, untamed beauty that defines this Nordic island. Forget skyscrapers and crowded streets. Husafell offers a different kind of escape. Here, you'll find tranquility in the whispering winds, adventure in the glacial rivers, and wonder in the ethereal glow of the Northern Lights. It's a place to reconnect with nature, challenge yourself with outdoor activities, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Food & Cuisine
While Husafell isn't known for a wide array of restaurants, the local cuisine focuses on fresh, Icelandic ingredients. Expect hearty dishes featuring lamb, fish, and root vegetables. The Husafell Bistro, located at the Husafell Center, offers a menu of traditional Icelandic fare with a modern twist, using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. You can also find simpler options like sandwiches and soups at the Husafell swimming pool cafe. For a truly unique experience, consider booking a meal at a nearby farm-to-table restaurant, where you can sample the freshest produce and meats directly from the source.
Nightlife
Nightlife in Husafell is not about bustling bars and clubs. It's about experiencing the magic of the Icelandic night sky. The area is renowned for its dark skies, making it an ideal location for Northern Lights viewing during the winter months. Many visitors gather outside, away from light pollution, to witness this spectacular natural phenomenon. The Husafell swimming pool is also open late on certain nights, offering a unique opportunity to relax in geothermal waters under the stars.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Husafell depends on your priorities. For Northern Lights viewing, the winter months (September to April) are ideal, with long hours of darkness and clear skies. However, be prepared for cold temperatures and potential road closures due to snow. Summer (June to August) offers milder weather, longer daylight hours, and access to hiking trails and outdoor activities. The shoulder seasons (May and September) can offer a good balance of both, with fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
Transportation
Husafell is a remote location, and public transportation is limited. Renting a car is highly recommended to explore the surrounding area and reach Husafell from other parts of Iceland. There are local bus tours available from Reykjavik that include Husafell as part of their itinerary, but these are less frequent and require pre-booking. Within Husafell itself, walking is the best way to get around the immediate area.
Airport
The closest international airport to Husafell is Keflavík International Airport (KEF), located approximately 130 kilometers (80 miles) away. The drive from Keflavík to Husafell takes around 2-2.5 hours. Renting a car at the airport is the most convenient way to reach Husafell. Alternatively, you can take a bus from the airport to Reykjavik and then arrange for a tour or private transfer to Husafell.
Attractions
Langjökull Glacier Ice Cave Tours (from Husafell)
Embark on an unforgettable adventure into the heart of Langjökull Glacier. Guided ice cave tours depart from Husafell, taking you deep inside the glacier's icy depths. Witness the stunning blue ice formations and learn about the glacier's formation and history. A truly unique and awe-inspiring experience.
Barnafoss Waterfall
Barnafoss, meaning 'Children's Falls,' is a rapid waterfall on the Hvítá river, close to Hraunfossar. It's known for its powerful currents and the tragic legend associated with its name. The viewing platforms offer excellent vantage points to witness the raw power of nature. Combine your visit with Hraunfossar for a complete experience.
Víðgelmir Cave
Víðgelmir is one of the largest lava caves in Iceland, offering a fascinating glimpse into the island's volcanic past. Guided tours take you through the cave's impressive chambers, showcasing stunning rock formations and colorful mineral deposits. A must-see for geology enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Hraunfossar Waterfalls
Hraunfossar is a series of waterfalls formed by rivulets streaming over a distance of about 900 meters out of the Hallmundarhraun lava field into the Hvítá river. The waterfalls emerge from beneath the lava field, creating a stunning and unique natural spectacle. A must-see for any visitor to West Iceland, offering breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
Húsafell Swimming Pool
Relax and rejuvenate at the Húsafell Swimming Pool, a geothermal pool surrounded by stunning scenery. Enjoy a soak in the warm water while taking in the views of the mountains and forests. It's a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.
Into the Glacier
Into the Glacier offers tours into the Langjökull Glacier. You can explore the glacier from the inside and learn about the glacier's formation and history. A truly unique and awe-inspiring experience.
Húsafell Stone Circle
Visit the Húsafell Stone Circle, a modern art installation that blends seamlessly with the natural landscape. The stones are arranged in a circular pattern, creating a peaceful and contemplative space. It's a unique and thought-provoking attraction.
Husafell Stone Circle
The Husafell Stone Circle is a unique art installation featuring stones of varying sizes arranged in a circle. Each stone represents a person who lived in the area. It's a place for reflection and appreciation of the local history and community. A peaceful spot to connect with the spirit of Husafell.
Husafell Swimming Pool
The Husafell Swimming Pool is a geothermal pool that offers a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. Surrounded by stunning natural scenery, it's the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring. Enjoy the warm waters and soak in the tranquility of the Icelandic countryside.
Day Trips
Hike to Glymur, Iceland's second-highest waterfall, for a rewarding adventure. The hike involves river crossings, cave passages, and steep climbs, but the stunning views of the waterfall cascading down a dramatic gorge are well worth the effort. Be prepared for a challenging but unforgettable experience.
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes driving to the trailhead Witness the raw power of geothermal energy at Deildartunguhver, Europe's most powerful hot spring. The sheer volume of boiling water it produces is astounding, and the vibrant colors of the surrounding landscape create a surreal and unforgettable experience. You can't bathe directly in the spring due to its scalding temperatures, but the nearby Krauma Spa utilizes the hot water, mixed with glacial water, to offer a relaxing and authentic Icelandic bathing experience.
Approximately 30 minutes driving A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park is a place of immense historical and geological significance. Stand on the rift valley between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, witness the Almannagjá gorge, and learn about the Icelandic parliament that was founded here in 930 AD. It's a breathtaking landscape steeped in history.
Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes driving Experience the thrill of exploring a man-made ice cave within Langjökull Glacier. Journey into the heart of the glacier and marvel at the stunning blue ice formations. This is a unique opportunity to witness the beauty and fragility of Iceland's glaciers from the inside. Tours typically depart from Husafell.
Tours depart from Husafell Visit the charming town of Borgarnes, located on a peninsula with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and sea. Explore the Settlement Centre museum to learn about the history of Iceland's settlement, stroll along the harbor, and enjoy the town's relaxed atmosphere.
Approximately 1 hour driving Just a stone's throw from Husafell, Hraunfossar is a series of waterfalls emerging mysteriously from beneath a lava field, cascading into the Hvítá River. Nearby, Barnafoss, or "Children's Waterfall," is a powerful and turbulent waterfall with a tragic legend attached to it. The contrast between the gentle beauty of Hraunfossar and the raw power of Barnafoss makes this a truly captivating destination.
Approximately 10 minutes driving Embark on an underground adventure into Víðgelmir, one of Iceland's largest lava caves. Explore the stunning formations, vibrant colors, and fascinating geological features created by ancient volcanic activity. Guided tours are available, providing insights into the cave's history and formation. It's a truly unique and awe-inspiring experience.
Approximately 40 minutes driving Step back in time at Reykholt, the former home of Snorri Sturluson, a famous Icelandic historian, poet, and politician from the 13th century. Explore the historical site, including the remains of Snorri's farm and the Snorralaug, a geothermal pool mentioned in the sagas. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into Iceland's rich literary and cultural heritage.
Approximately 30 minutes driving Glymur Waterfall
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Deildartunguhver Hot Springs
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Thingvellir National Park
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Langjökull Glacier Ice Cave
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Borgarnes
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Hraunfossar and Barnafoss Waterfalls
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Víðgelmir Lava Cave
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Reykholt Historical Site
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