Whale Watching and Cultural Exploration in Húsavík, Iceland

Echoes in Stone

Today, Hans-Peter and I ventured into a landscape sculpted by ancient forces, a place where the earth itself seems to whisper secrets. It was a day of exploration, of witnessing nature's artistry, and of listening to the echoes of Iceland's volcanic past. A truly unforgettable experience in the heart of this Nordic island.

Our day began, as most do here in Húsavík Cape Hotel. The buffet was quite generous, offering everything from traditional Icelandic skyr to more familiar continental fare. I always appreciate a good breakfast when I know a day of hiking lies ahead, and today's destination, Hljóðaklettar, promised a landscape unlike any other.


Discover unparalleled comfort at Húsavík Cape Hotel, your gateway to unforgettable Icelandic adventures including world-class whale watching.

After breakfast, we packed our daypacks, making sure to include water, some snacks, and of course, my camera. I couldn't resist capturing the unique beauty of Hljóðaklettar. We set off towards Vatnajökull National Park, where Hljóðaklettar is located. The drive itself was a scenic prelude to the wonders that awaited us, with rolling hills and distant mountains painting a picturesque backdrop. I couldn't help but think of my homeland, Latvia, with its own forests and meadows, though the Icelandic landscape possesses a stark, volcanic beauty that is uniquely its own.

Upon arriving at Hljóðaklettar, the landscape immediately captivated us. The name Hljóðaklettar translates to Echo Rocks or Whispering Cliffs, and it's easy to understand why. The area is a collection of bizarre basalt columns, remnants of ancient volcanoes, arranged in every imaginable direction. The glacial river has heavily eroded these columns, creating a series of patterns – swirls, spirals, rosettes, and honeycombs – that are truly mesmerizing.


Discover the stunning rock formations and tranquil beauty of Hljóðaklettar National Park, a natural wonder in the heart of Iceland.

We decided to embark on the longer of the two marked hiking trails, a circular route that promised a comprehensive tour of the area. As we started our walk, the acoustic effect of the cliffs became immediately apparent. The echoes and reverberations created by the caves and rock formations made it difficult to determine the direction of the river's flow. It was an eerie yet fascinating experience, as if the rocks themselves were communicating with us.

The landscape of Hljóðaklettar is a testament to the raw power and artistic flair of nature, a place where the echoes of the past resonate in the present.

One of the first formations we encountered was Kastali, or The Castle, a pair of impressive outcrops resembling a stronghold and a turret on the opposite bank of the river. Not far from Kastali was Tröllið, The Giant, seemingly guarding the castle. These formations sparked our imaginations, and we spent a good deal of time marveling at their shapes and textures. Hans-Peter, with his background in art restoration, was particularly fascinated by the way the light played across the surfaces of the basalt columns.

As we continued our hike, the path led us away from the river and towards Kirkjan, The Church. This wasn't a church in the traditional sense, but rather an almost perfectly symmetrical archway leading into an amazing cave. The acoustics inside the cave were remarkable, and I couldn't resist testing them out with a few lines from a Latvian folk song. The echoes that reverberated through the cave gave the song a haunting, ethereal quality.

We spent hours exploring the various nooks and crannies of Hljóðaklettar, each turn revealing a new and fascinating perspective. The basalt columns took on different shapes depending on the angle, and I found myself constantly reaching for my camera to capture the ever-changing scenery. It was easy to imagine being on another planet, surrounded by these strange and wonderful formations.

After our hike, we drove back towards Húsavík, our minds filled with the images and sounds of Hljóðaklettar. Before heading back to the hotel, we stopped at Icewear, a local shop specializing in Icelandic wool products and outdoor apparel. Although I had packed plenty of warm clothing, I couldn't resist purchasing a pair of cozy wool socks as a souvenir. Hans-Peter found a sturdy, weather-resistant jacket that will be perfect for our future explorations.


Discover Icewear in Norðurþing for authentic Icelandic apparel and outdoor gear, blending quality with local craftsmanship in a vibrant shopping experience.

For lunch, we decided to try Nesti, a restaurant in Húsavík known for its local cuisine. I opted for the fish and chips, a classic Icelandic dish, while Hans-Peter chose a hearty lamb stew. The food was delicious and satisfying, the perfect way to refuel after our long hike. The cozy atmosphere of the restaurant was also a welcome respite from the wind and sun.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Nesti in Húsavík - where fresh ingredients meet traditional flavors.

As the day drew to a close, we treated ourselves to dinner at Bjóböðin - SPA & Restaurant. The combination of relaxation and fine dining was the perfect way to end our day of exploration. I savored the fresh, local ingredients and the innovative dishes, reflecting on the day's adventures. The warm waters of the spa soothed my muscles, and I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. It's moments like these that remind me why I love to travel, to experience new cultures and landscapes, and to share those experiences with others.


Experience geothermal relaxation and exquisite Icelandic cuisine at Bjóböðin - where wellness meets culinary delight in Árskógssandur.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Hafragilsfoss and the Lava Church. I am particularly excited to see Hafragilsfoss, one of the most powerful waterfalls in Europe. It's another opportunity to witness the raw, untamed beauty of Iceland, and I can't wait to share it with you all. Perhaps we'll stop by Lókal Bistro for a drink in the evening, a perfect way to unwind after another day of adventure.

As I sit here in our hotel room, writing these words, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the wonders of Iceland. Húsavík has proven to be a truly special place, a town where the natural beauty and cultural richness combine to create an unforgettable experience. I encourage anyone who has the opportunity to visit this corner of the world to seize it with both hands. You won't be disappointed.

This trip with Hans-Peter has been a wonderful reminder of the joy of discovery and the importance of sharing those discoveries with others. Until tomorrow, dear readers, may your own journeys be filled with wonder and inspiration.