Exploration in the Northeastern Region of Iceland
Husavik: Iceland's Vibrant Whale-Watching Haven
Nestled in the remote Northern stretch of Iceland, Husavik (pronounced hoo-SAH-veek) is a quaint coastal town known for its picturesque charm and unique geological attractions. Just a hour's flight away from Reykjavik, or a nine-hour scenic drive, this seafaring haven boasts whispering legends and a thriving whale-watching scene that has made it Iceland's whale-watching capital.
Steeping in history, Husavik lays claim to being the site of the first ever home built in Iceland, by Swedish viking Garðar Svavarsson in 860 AD. The town's strategic location makes it an ideal base for day trips to many of Iceland's major attractions, making it the starting point of the sought-after Diamond Circle.
The magnetic pull of Husavik lies not only in its rich heritage but also in its marine life. Nicknamed the "town of whales," Husavik offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness a diverse array of whale species, such as blue whales, fin whales, and humpback whales, in their natural habitat. If you're feeling adventurous, hop on a small aircraft with Eagle Air, one of Iceland's local airlines, for a 50-minute flight that will take you right to Husavik's doorstep. Our family of three chose this route for a delightful and easy getaway.
Upon landing, we were greeted by our friendly guide, Gunnar Jóhannesson, the managing director of Travel North, who offered insights into the town's history and culture. The airport is situated in a lava field, around a ten-minute drive away from the town center. As we arrived in Husavik, we were captivated by the vibrant harbor, dotted with whale-watching vessels, and the stunning church, built in 1907, which the locals take great pride in. Husavik's old-world charm is further enhanced by the town's many wooden and corrugated iron houses, creating a truly scenic atmosphere.
Our home for the weekend was Fosshótel Husavik, a modern and well-appointed hotel offering spacious and stylish rooms, abundant amenities, and exceptional conference facilities, making it the largest conference hotel in all of Northern Iceland. With its sleek decor in shades of grey and purple, our room felt like a cozy sanctuary after our day's adventures.
For culinary delights, we highly recommend the Moby Dick restaurant located within the hotel, which offers an array of mouthwatering dishes, from fire-oven pizzas and gourmet burgers to traditional fish and chips. No matter your tastes, there's something for everyone, including a special kid's menu that features healthy options and a whale coloring book and crayons to keep the little ones entertained.
The following morning, we embarked on the main event – a whale-watching tour with Gentle Giants. With the weather forecast promising clear skies, we boarded a charming traditional oak fishing boat, enjoying the breathtaking views of Iceland's rugged landscapes during the short ride across the calm harbor. Our German-speaking guide informed us that the waters of Skjálfandi Bay were known to be particularly rich in nutrients, attracting a wide variety of whale species.
As we ventured deeper into the bay, we were quickly rewarded with a sighting of a school of playful dolphins leaping out of the water. But the real stars of the show were the magnificent fin whales, the second-largest whales on earth. We watched in awe as these gentle giants surfaced just metres from our boat, their massive bodies slicing through the water with graceful ease. The experience left us humbled and forever changed.
After our exhilarating whale-watching tour, we headed to GeoSea – Husavik's geothermal baths located on the town's coastline. The baths offer a truly unique and unforgettable experience, with warm, mineral-rich seawater flowing into large, inviting pools. As we soaked in the steamy water, surrounded by stunning mountain vistas and endless ocean views, a sense of tranquility washed over us – a moment we'll cherish forever.
Before departing for Reykjavik, we visited the Exploration Museum housed in a historic building in the center of Husavik. The museum showcases exhibits on human exploration, including photographs and artifacts from astronaut training in 1965 and 1967, Viking exploration, polar expeditions, and underwater cave exploration. A fascinating destination for both adults and children alike, it serves as a fitting cap to a memorable weekend in this charming town.
- Next time you plan a trip to Iceland, consider travel to Husavik, the town offers geothermal experiences at GeoSea, perfect for soothing your worries after an exciting adventure.
- When in Husavik, the vibrant harbor is not merely a picturesque backdrop, but also home to numerous whale-watching vessels that offer lifestyle experiences for nature enthusiasts as they witness diverse species such as blue whales, fin whales, and humpback whales in their natural habitat.
- With its unique blend of history, culture, and geological attractions, Husavik, Iceland is more than just a whale-watching haven; it is a destination that also caters to those seeking relaxation with options like the modern Fosshótel Husavik, offering psoriasis-friendly amenities within its sleek, grey, and purple decor.
- Whether you're concerned about maintaining a healthy lifestyle or simply looking for culinary delights, the Moby Dick restaurant within Fosshótel Husavik caters to both tastes, offering mouthwatering dishes ranging from seafood options to healthier kids' meals, complete with a whale-themed coloring book to keep the little ones entertained.
- Husavik's noteworthy attractions extend beyond its marine life and geothermal baths; the town boasts the Exploration Museum, a fitting cap to a memorable weekend getaway, providing insights into human exploration from astronaut training to Viking and polar expeditions, offering a captivating learning experience for all ages.
