Húsavík, Iceland Guide
Húsavík, nestled on the shores of Skjálfandi Bay in North Iceland, is a charming town renowned as the "Whale Watching Capital of Europe." Its picturesque harbor, colorful houses, and stunning backdrop of snow-capped mountains create a truly unforgettable setting. Beyond its cetacean attractions, Húsavík offers a rich cultural heritage, with a fascinating history tied to exploration and settlement. The town boasts a welcoming atmosphere and a strong sense of community. Visitors can explore its museums, wander along the harbor, and enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty that surrounds it. Húsavík serves as an excellent base for exploring the Diamond Circle, a popular tourist route encompassing some of Iceland's most spectacular natural wonders, including Dettifoss waterfall, Ásbyrgi canyon, and Lake Mývatn.
Food & Cuisine
Húsavík offers a delightful culinary experience, with a focus on fresh seafood and traditional Icelandic cuisine. Expect to find dishes featuring locally caught fish, such as cod, haddock, and arctic char, prepared in various ways. Lamb is also a staple, often slow-cooked or grilled. For a memorable meal, try Restaurant Gamli Baukur, located right on the harbor, known for its fresh seafood and stunning views. Heimabakarí, the local bakery, is a great spot for pastries and coffee. While there isn't a traditional market, the local grocery stores offer a good selection of Icelandic products.
Nightlife
Húsavík's nightlife is relatively low-key but offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Several pubs and bars along the main street and harbor provide a place to relax and enjoy a drink. Gamli Baukur restaurant also transforms into a lively bar in the evenings, often featuring live music. The focus is more on socializing and enjoying the company of locals and fellow travelers than on intense clubbing.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Húsavík is during the summer months (June-August). This is when the weather is mildest, the days are longest, and whale watching tours are most frequent. However, the shoulder seasons (May and September) can also be pleasant, with fewer crowds and still decent weather. For Northern Lights viewing, visit during the winter months (October-April), although whale watching tours are less frequent during this time.
Transportation
Húsavík is primarily accessible by car or bus. There is no tram or subway/metro system. Scheduled bus services connect Húsavík to other towns and cities in Iceland, including Akureyri. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the surrounding areas and the Diamond Circle at your own pace.
Airport
Húsavík Airport (HZK) is a small domestic airport located approximately 10 km (6 miles) from the town center. While it primarily serves domestic flights, it can be a convenient option for reaching Húsavík. Transportation from the airport to the town is typically by taxi or pre-arranged shuttle service. Car rentals are also available at the airport.
Attractions
Húsavík Church
Húsavík Church is a beautiful wooden church located in the center of town. It is one of the oldest churches in Iceland, dating back to 1907. Visitors can admire the traditional Icelandic architecture and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere inside the church.
Skjálfandi Bay
Skjálfandi Bay is a stunning bay located near Húsavík, known for its rich marine life and diverse ecosystem. Visitors can explore the bay on boat tours, go fishing, or simply relax on the sandy beaches. Skjálfandi Bay is a peaceful retreat where visitors can enjoy the beauty of Iceland's northern coast and connect with nature.
Húsavík Harbor
Húsavík Harbor is a picturesque waterfront area where visitors can watch fishing boats come and go, enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants, and take boat tours to see whales in the nearby waters. The harbor offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular spot for relaxing and taking in the natural beauty of Húsavík.
Húsavík Cape
Húsavík Cape is a scenic headland located just outside of town. Visitors can hike along the coastal trails, enjoy panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding landscape, and spot seabirds nesting in the cliffs. The cape is a peaceful retreat where visitors can connect with nature and experience the beauty of Iceland's northern coast.
Húsavík Whale Watching
Húsavík is known as the whale watching capital of Iceland, offering visitors the chance to see majestic whales in their natural habitat. Boat tours depart from Húsavík Harbor and take visitors out to sea to spot humpback whales, minke whales, and even the elusive blue whale. Whale watching tours in Húsavík are a must-do experience for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Whale Museum
The Whale Museum in Húsavík is dedicated to the marine life of the North Atlantic. Visitors can learn about different whale species, their habitats, and conservation efforts. The museum features interactive exhibits, life-size whale models, and informative displays that educate and inspire visitors of all ages.
Day Trips
Prepare to be awestruck by Dettifoss, Europe's most powerful waterfall. The sheer volume of water thundering over the edge is immense, creating a deafening roar and a misty spray that can be felt from a distance. The surrounding canyon is rugged and dramatic, adding to the sense of raw power. A short hike leads to Selfoss, another beautiful waterfall just upstream from Dettifoss.
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes driving Known as the "Capital of the North," Akureyri is a charming town nestled at the head of Iceland's longest fjord, Eyjafjörður. Explore the colorful streets, visit the iconic Akureyri Church, and stroll through the beautiful Akureyri Botanical Garden. The town offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. In winter, Akureyri is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding.
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes driving Lake Mývatn is a wonderland of volcanic landscapes, diverse birdlife, and unique geological formations. Explore the pseudo-craters at Skútustaðagígar, formed by steam explosions when hot lava flowed over the wetlands. Hike among the bizarre lava pillars of Dimmuborgir ("Dark Castles"), said to be the home of elves and trolls. Don't miss the bubbling mud pools and fumaroles of Hverir, a geothermal area that feels like another planet. Mývatn Nature Baths offer a relaxing soak in geothermal waters with stunning views.
Approximately 1 hour driving Ásbyrgi is a horseshoe-shaped canyon, a natural wonder steeped in Icelandic folklore. Legend says it was formed by Sleipnir, the eight-legged horse of the Norse god Odin, who stepped down and created the canyon with one of his hooves. The canyon is lush with vegetation, a stark contrast to the surrounding volcanic landscape. Hiking trails wind through the canyon floor and along the rim, offering stunning views.
Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes driving Goðafoss, the "Waterfall of the Gods," is a truly spectacular sight. Legend says that around 1000 AD, when Iceland converted to Christianity, the local chieftain threw his pagan idols into the falls, giving it its name. The powerful cascade plunges from a height of about 12 meters (39 feet) and stretches over a width of 30 meters (98 feet). The surrounding landscape is stark and beautiful, making for incredible photo opportunities. In winter, the falls are often partially frozen, adding to the dramatic scene.
Approximately 45 minutes driving The infinity pool in Hofsós is a unique experience. The pool is located right on the coast, overlooking the ocean and the Drangey island. The pool is heated with geothermal water, making it a comfortable place to relax and enjoy the views.
Approximately 2 hours driving Dettifoss Waterfall
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Akureyri
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Lake Mývatn
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Ásbyrgi Canyon
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Goðafoss Waterfall
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Hofsós Swimming Pool
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