Whale-Watching Adventure in Husavik

A Journey Through Time and Waterfalls

Today was a day of contrasts, a beautiful blend of Iceland's stunning natural landscapes and its rich, storied past. It's amazing how much history is woven into this country, and I'm so glad to be experiencing it firsthand, especially with my friends. Today's adventure definitely made me feel more connected to Iceland, and I can't wait to share it with you all.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Nesti, a local spot known for its delicious Icelandic cuisine. Isabela would absolutely love this place; she's always eager to try new dishes and appreciate local flavors. I opted for their famous fish and chips, which was the perfect fuel for our day of exploration. The fish was incredibly fresh, and the batter had just the right amount of crispiness. After a satisfying meal, we set off to our first destination: Goðafoss, the Waterfall of the Gods.


Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Goðafoss, Iceland's renowned 'Waterfall of the Gods,' a must-see natural wonder.
The drive to Goðafoss was scenic in itself, with rolling green hills and vast open spaces stretching as far as the eye could see. The weather was typical Icelandic – a mix of sunshine and dramatic clouds, which only added to the beauty of the landscape. As we approached the waterfall, the roar of the water grew louder, building anticipation for the sight that awaited us. I was reminded of Ouro Preto, my hometown, where the sound of water fountains always filled the air, creating a soothing backdrop to daily life.

Goðafoss is truly a sight to behold. The water cascades down from a height of about 12 meters, stretching nearly 30 meters wide, creating a horseshoe shape that is both powerful and mesmerizing. The name Goðafoss translates to Waterfall of the Gods, and legend has it that around 1000 AD, when Iceland converted to Christianity, the statues of the Norse gods were thrown into these very falls. Standing there, feeling the spray of the water on my face and hearing its thunderous roar, I could understand why this place was considered sacred. I took countless photos, trying to capture the sheer magnificence of the falls, but no image can truly do it justice.

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.

After spending a good amount of time at Goðafoss, soaking in its beauty and history, we hopped back in the car and headed towards Grenjaðarstaður, an old turf house.


Discover Iceland's past at Grenjaðarstaður, the Old Turfhouse Museum in Húsavík, showcasing traditional turf architecture and cultural heritage.
The drive took us through more of Iceland's stunning countryside, and I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such natural beauty. It made me think of the hiking trails near Kingston, which, while beautiful, don't quite compare to the raw, untouched landscapes of Iceland.

Grenjaðarstaður is one of Iceland's largest turf houses, located about 30 kilometers south of Húsavík. These turf houses are a unique part of Icelandic history, offering a glimpse into how people lived in this harsh environment centuries ago. The oldest part of the turf house was built in 1865, and it was inhabited until 1949. As we approached, I was struck by how well the house blended into the landscape, the grass roof and walls making it seem like a natural part of the environment.

Inside, Grenjaðarstaður felt like stepping back in time. The house is now a folk museum, filled with artifacts and exhibits that showcase what life was like in the past centuries. The interior is paneled with driftwood, and the walls are insulated with lava rocks, materials that were readily available in the area. Walking through the various rooms, I could imagine families living and working in this space, their lives dictated by the seasons and the land. The museum also includes a functional Lutheran church built in 1865, and in the cemetery, we saw a rune-stone dating back to the Middle Ages. I was particularly fascinated by the rune-stone, as I've always been interested in ancient languages and symbols. It reminded me of my work restoring historical buildings, where I often uncover hidden details that tell a story about the past.

After exploring Grenjaðarstaður, we stopped by the museum's café, located in an old renovated barn. I enjoyed a cup of coffee and a traditional Icelandic pastry, while browsing the locally made handicrafts on display. It was a perfect way to end our visit, savoring the flavors of Iceland while reflecting on the history we had just experienced.

Before heading back to Húsavík, we made a quick stop at Icewear, a local shop specializing in Icelandic wool products and outdoor apparel.


Discover Icewear in Norðurþing for authentic Icelandic apparel and outdoor gear, blending quality with local craftsmanship in a vibrant shopping experience.
I was looking for a warm sweater to take back home, and Icewear had a wide selection of beautiful, handcrafted items. I ended up buying a cozy wool sweater with a traditional Nordic design, which I know will be perfect for the Canadian winters. Plus, it'll be a great reminder of my time in Iceland. My friends also picked up a few souvenirs for their families, and we left the store feeling satisfied with our purchases.

For dinner, we decided to try Jaja Ding Dong Húsavík, a bistro-bar inspired by the Eurovision movie.


Discover the vibrant spirit of Jaja Ding Dong Húsavík - where delicious cuisine meets Icelandic musical heritage in an unforgettable atmosphere.
The place was lively and fun, with a great atmosphere and friendly staff. The bistro is known for Icelandic food and drinks. It was the perfect way to celebrate a day filled with incredible sights and experiences.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to explore Ásbyrgi, a horseshoe-shaped canyon, and the Gljúfrastofa visitor center [if applicable]. I'm excited to see more of Iceland's natural wonders and learn about the geological history of the area.

Today was a reminder of why I love to travel – the opportunity to see new places, learn about different cultures, and create lasting memories with friends. Iceland continues to surprise and inspire me, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. I'm especially grateful for the chance to share these experiences with you all, and I hope that my blog inspires you to embark on your own adventures. I encourage you to visit Husavik and I am sure that you will have a great time as well. Good night!

Tomorrow we plan to have breakfast at Fosshotel Húsavík [if applicable], followed by a lunch at Grill 66, and dinner at Viðbót. In the evening, we'll unwind at Gamli Baukur, a local bar, enjoying drinks and the company of friends.


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