The History and Charm of Húsavík

Húsavík's history dates back to the 19th century when it first began to develop as a small fishing town. Over the years, the village has grown into a popular hub for tourism, particularly known for its whale-watching opportunities. The name "Húsavík" translates to "House Bay," which is a reference to the village's harbor, where boats have docked for centuries. As Iceland's northernmost town of any significance, Húsavík has also maintained a unique charm with its brightly colored houses and warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Key Historical Sites in Húsavík

• Húsavík Whale Museum: A must-visit for anyone interested in the town’s primary attraction. The Whale Museum features exhibits on the different species of whales found in the waters around Húsavík and their role in Icelandic history. The museum also includes interactive displays and models of whale skeletons, giving visitors a hands-on experience of Iceland’s marine life.
• The Church of Húsavík: A beautiful wooden church dating back to 1907. This historic church, with its tall steeple and classic Icelandic design, stands as a prominent landmark in the town and offers stunning views over the harbor.
• Húsavík Old Harbor: The old harbor area is an excellent spot to stroll and admire the colorful houses that line the waterfront. You’ll also find charming cafes and boutiques where you can sample local goods.

Whale Watching in Húsavík

Whale watching is undoubtedly the highlight of any trip to Húsavík. The bay surrounding Húsavík is one of the best places in the world to observe humpback whales, minke whales, and the rare blue whale, making it a top destination for marine wildlife enthusiasts. The town’s location near the Arctic Circle provides unique opportunities for year-round whale sightings, with peak season running from April to October.

Whale Watching Tours in Húsavík

• Classic Whale Watching Tours: These tours take visitors out on traditional Icelandic wooden boats, offering an authentic and intimate whale-watching experience. Depending on the time of year, you may also spot dolphins, puffins, and other seabirds.
• RIB Boat Tours: For those seeking a more thrilling experience, RIB (rigid inflatable boat) tours offer a faster, closer look at the whales in their natural habitat. These tours give you the opportunity to get closer to the whales and the surrounding landscapes.
• Private Charters: For a more personalized experience, private whale-watching charters are available. These tours can be customized based on your preferences and are perfect for groups or families. While Húsavík is famous for its whale watching, visitors can also book multi-day tours that include the region’s other wildlife and scenic locations, providing a more comprehensive Arctic experience.

Exploring Geothermal Wonders and Natural Hot Springs

Apart from whale watching, Húsavík is also home to stunning geothermal features that make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

Lake Mývatn and Surrounding Geothermal Areas

• Lake Mývatn: Located just 30 minutes south of Húsavík, Lake Mývatn is a UNESCO-listed area known for its volcanic activity, unique birdlife, and surreal landscapes. The area boasts several geothermal features, including the famous Hverir geothermal fields, with steaming vents and boiling mud pits, as well as the Krafla volcano, which has been active in recent decades.
• Mývatn Nature Baths: If you’re looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, visit the Mývatn Nature Baths, a hot spring spa with mineral-rich waters. The baths are less crowded than the more famous Blue Lagoon, offering a more peaceful and serene setting.
• Geosea Geothermal Sea Baths: Located just outside of Húsavík, Geosea is a geothermal sea spa that allows visitors to soak in warm, mineral-rich waters while taking in stunning views of Skjálfandi Bay and the surrounding mountains. It’s a perfect spot to unwind after a long day of outdoor exploration or whale watching.

Adventure Activities in Húsavík

Húsavík offers more than just whale watching and geothermal relaxation. The surrounding landscapes provide plenty of opportunities for adventure and exploration, making it a great destination for active travelers.

Hiking and Outdoor Exploration

• The Ásbyrgi Canyon: A dramatic horseshoe-shaped canyon located in the Vatnajökull National Park, about an hour's drive from Húsavík. It's a popular hiking and photography destination with unique geological formations, rich vegetation, and birdlife. Hiking in the Ásbyrgi Canyon offers amazing panoramic views of the surrounding region.
• Hiking in the Húsavík Area: There are numerous hiking trails that start just outside the town, offering sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and the North Atlantic Ocean. Many of these trails are suitable for all levels of hikers and can be enjoyed year-round.
• Snowmobiling on Vatnajökull Glacier: For a truly adventurous experience, consider going snowmobiling on Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier, located within a few hours of Húsavík. The vast ice fields and dramatic landscapes are sure to provide an adrenaline-packed day of adventure.

Kayaking and Sea Adventures

Húsavík's proximity to Skjálfandi Bay makes it an excellent spot for sea kayaking. Paddle through calm waters and take in the stunning views of the surrounding fjords and mountains. Depending on the season, you may also spot marine life from your kayak, including whales and seals.

Culture and Local Traditions in Húsavík

Húsavík, despite being a small town, has a rich cultural heritage that visitors can experience through local museums, festivals, and traditions.

• The Húsavík Whale Museum: In addition to its whale-watching tours, the Húsavík Whale Museum is an essential stop for those who want to understand the town's deep connection to marine life. The museum offers a comprehensive look at the history of whaling in Iceland, as well as its evolution into a whale-watching hub. The museum’s exhibits feature fascinating models of whales, historical whaling tools, and scientific information about the marine species found in the area.
• The Húsavík Film Festival: Every summer, Húsavík hosts its own film festival, which attracts filmmakers and audiences from around the world. The festival features a selection of Icelandic and international films, making it a great opportunity to experience Iceland’s growing film culture in a small-town setting.

Where to Eat in Húsavík

• Gamli Baukur: A popular seafood restaurant located right by the harbor, Gamli Baukur is the perfect place to sample fresh local fish and seafood dishes, including whale steak, a local delicacy. The restaurant has a cozy, rustic feel with beautiful views over the bay.
• Húsavík Restaurant: Known for its modern Icelandic cuisine, Húsavík Restaurant offers a more upscale dining experience with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant is perfect for those looking for traditional Icelandic flavors in a more refined setting.
• Salka Restaurant & Bar: A lively spot for a quick bite or a relaxed dinner, Salka offers Icelandic and international dishes, with a great selection of cocktails and local beers.

Where to Stay in Húsavík

• Fosshotel Húsavík: The largest hotel in town, Fosshotel offers modern rooms with stunning views of the harbor and surrounding landscapes. The hotel also has a restaurant serving delicious Icelandic cuisine.
• Húsavík Guesthouse: A charming and affordable option, this guesthouse provides a cozy and comfortable stay in the heart of the town.
• Skjálfandi Apartments: If you prefer a more independent stay, Skjálfandi Apartments offers fully equipped apartments with kitchens, making it perfect for longer stays.

Travel Tips for Visiting Húsavík

• Best Time to Visit: The best time for whale watching is from June to September, when the chances of seeing a variety of whale species are highest. However, Húsavík is a year-round destination with its geothermal attractions, making it a great winter destination as well.
• Weather Considerations: The weather in Húsavík can be unpredictable, so be sure to pack layers and waterproof clothing. Always check the weather forecast before heading out on a whale-watching tour or other outdoor activities.
• Getting There: Húsavík is about a 5-hour drive from Reykjavik. The town is also accessible by domestic flights, with a small airport offering flights from Reykjavik.