Whale Watching and Cultural Exploration in Húsavík, Iceland

Giants of the Sea and Panoramic Views

Today was everything I imagined and more! Húsavík, the whale-watching capital of Iceland, truly lived up to its name. The crisp air, the stunning landscapes, and the majestic whales – it was a day that will forever be etched in my memory. Join me as I recount the events of this extraordinary day, filled with breathtaking sights and unforgettable encounters.

Our day began, as most do, with a hearty breakfast. We popped into Nettó, the local supermarket, to grab some essentials. I always find it fascinating to see what the locals eat, and it's a great way to save a bit of money, which is always welcome when travelling. After our quick breakfast, it was time for the main event: whale watching with Gentle Giants. We boarded the boat, and I must admit, I was a little nervous. I’ve always been fascinated by whales, but the thought of being out on the open ocean, searching for these massive creatures, was a bit daunting. Hans-Peter, ever the calming presence, held my hand and assured me it would be an incredible experience. He was right, of course. As we sailed out into Skjálfandi Bay, the scenery was simply breathtaking. The mountains in the distance, the clear blue water, and the anticipation of seeing whales – it was all incredibly exciting. Fortunately, Gentle Giants provides warm safety overalls, which were very welcome against the cool wind. I also made sure to bring my warmest, waterproof clothing, learning from my mistake of forgetting waterproof boots.

The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.

It wasn't long before we spotted our first whale. A massive humpback, breaching the surface of the water, its enormous body glistening in the sunlight. It was a sight that took my breath away. The sheer size and power of these creatures are awe-inspiring. We watched as it swam and played, its movements graceful and deliberate. The guide on board was incredibly knowledgeable, sharing fascinating facts about the whales and their behavior. I learned that Húsavík is known for its high success rate in whale sightings, with humpback whales being the most common species in the bay. We were also lucky enough to see white-beaked dolphins, playful creatures that seemed to enjoy racing alongside our boat.


Explore the captivating waters of Husavik with Gentle Giants, where unforgettable whale watching adventures await in Iceland's stunning landscapes.

After our incredible whale watching tour, we were both quite hungry. We decided to try Röff bistro for lunch, a cozy little spot that came highly recommended. I opted for a traditional Icelandic fish soup, while Hans-Peter chose a hearty burger. Both were delicious and just what we needed to refuel after our morning adventure. The bistro had a lovely, relaxed atmosphere, and we enjoyed chatting with some of the locals, who were all very friendly and welcoming.


Experience authentic Icelandic flavors with breathtaking views at Röff Bistro in Húsavík - a must-visit for culinary enthusiasts.

With our bellies full, we decided to explore the Húsavík viewing point. It’s a bit of a climb, but the views from the top are well worth the effort. From this vantage point, you can see the entire town of Húsavík, the stunning Skjálfandi Bay, and the majestic mountains that surround it. I took dozens of photos, trying to capture the beauty of the landscape, but no picture can truly do it justice. It’s a place where you can truly appreciate the raw, unspoiled beauty of Iceland.


Discover the breathtaking Húsavík Viewing Point in Iceland, where stunning landscapes and serene vistas await every traveler.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Hlöðufell Restaurant & Bar Húsavík for dinner. We both were craving some traditional Icelandic cuisine, and Hlöðufell did not disappoint. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly attentive. I savored every bite, reflecting on the incredible day we had experienced. It’s amazing how much you can pack into a single day when you’re in a place as special as Húsavík.


Discover an exceptional dining experience at Hlodufell Restaurant & Bar in Husavik, featuring fresh seafood and Asian-inspired cuisine amidst stunning views.

To cap off our wonderful day, we decided to visit Húsavík Öl, a local brewery and taproom housed in the old milk factory. It was the perfect place to unwind and sample some local craft beers. The taproom was sociable and lively, and we enjoyed chatting with the locals and fellow travelers. Hans-Peter, of course, was in his element, discussing the intricacies of the brewing process with the bartender. I opted for a crisp lager, while Hans-Peter tried a hoppy IPA. Both were delicious, and it was a great way to end our day.


Savor the distinctive flavors of Iceland at Húsavík öl, a premier brewpub offering a unique selection of craft beers in a cozy atmosphere.

As we walked back to Fosshotel Husavik, the sky was ablaze with the colors of the setting sun. I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the experiences we had shared today. Húsavík had exceeded all my expectations, and I couldn’t wait to see what tomorrow would bring.


Experience charming hospitality at Fosshotel Husavik, the perfect base for exploring Iceland's stunning landscapes and vibrant culture.

Tomorrow, we plan to drive to Goðafoss, the Waterfall of the Gods, and visit Grenjaðarstaður, an old turf house. I am particularly excited about visiting Goðafoss, as I have read so much about its historical significance and stunning beauty. I am also intrigued by Grenjaðarstaður, as it will provide a glimpse into Iceland's past and the traditional way of life. But for now, I’m content to savor the memories of today, the giants we encountered, and the breathtaking views we witnessed. Húsavík, you have stolen a piece of my heart. I am also looking forward to trying Jaja Ding Dong Húsavík tomorrow for dinner.