Whale-Watching Adventure in Husavik
Day 6: Echoes of the Past: Discovering Husavik's Hidden Gems
Uncover the mysteries of Husavik with a journey through history, nature's wonders, and local flavors. A day of exploration and delightful surprises!
Whispers of Exploration
Today was a day of diving deep into the heart of Husavik, exploring its history, marveling at its natural wonders, and savoring the local culture. It’s amazing how much a single day can hold when you open yourself up to the possibilities. From museums to geological marvels, Husavik continues to surprise and enchant me.
Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Heimabakarí. The pastries were delightful, and the coffee was just what we needed to kickstart our day. I couldn't help but think of Isabela and Mateus as I savored a traditional Icelandic pastry; they would have loved this cozy little bakery. After breakfast, we headed to the Exploration Museum.
Explore the spirit of adventure at the Exploration Museum in Húsavík, where history and exploration come alive through captivating exhibits.
The Exploration Museum was a fascinating journey through the history of human exploration, with a special focus on the Apollo astronaut training that took place near Husavik in the 1960s. It was incredible to learn that Neil Armstrong and other Apollo astronauts trained here, in this very region, because of its moon-like terrain. The exhibits were well-curated, and I was particularly impressed by the photographs and artifacts from the Apollo missions. As someone who appreciates history, I found myself completely absorbed in the stories of courage, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. The museum also covered Viking exploration and polar expeditions, painting a vivid picture of humanity's quest to discover the unknown.
The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.
After immersing ourselves in the world of exploration, it was time for a change of scenery. We drove to Hljóðaklettar, also known as the Echo Rocks. The landscape was surreal, with basalt columns scattered in every direction, creating unique formations and arched caves. The name “Echo Rocks” is quite fitting, as the acoustics here are unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. Shouting out and hearing the echoes reverberate from all directions was both eerie and exhilarating. I tried to explain the phenomenon to my friends, but it’s something you have to experience to truly understand. We hiked around the area, marveling at the rock formations named Kastali (the Castle), Kirkjan (the Church), and Tröllið (the Troll). Each formation had its own unique character, shaped by centuries of volcanic activity and erosion.
Discover the stunning rock formations and tranquil beauty of Hljóðaklettar National Park, a natural wonder in the heart of Iceland.
The hike was invigorating, and the views were simply breathtaking. I couldn’t resist taking numerous photos, trying to capture the essence of this geological wonderland. As we walked, I thought about Mateus and how much he would have enjoyed climbing these rocks and exploring the caves. I made a mental note to bring him here someday, to share this incredible experience with my son. The fresh air and stunning scenery reminded me of hiking in the Canadian wilderness near Kingston, but with a distinct Icelandic twist. The landscape here is so raw and untamed, it’s as if you’ve stepped onto another planet.
For lunch, we stopped at Hlodufell Restaurant & Bar Husavik. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere and offered a variety of dishes, including fresh seafood and traditional Icelandic cuisine. I opted for the Arctic char, which was cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. My friends tried the lamb stew and the fish and chips, and everyone was thoroughly satisfied with their meals. As we ate, we chatted about our adventures so far and made plans for the rest of the day. The staff was friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home. It’s these small moments of connection that truly enhance the travel experience.
Discover an exceptional dining experience at Hlodufell Restaurant & Bar in Husavik, featuring fresh seafood and Asian-inspired cuisine amidst stunning views.
After lunch, we decided to do some shopping at Penninn Eymundsson. This charming bookstore had a wide selection of books in both English and Icelandic, as well as a variety of gifts, art supplies, and travel items. I picked up a few books about Icelandic history and folklore, as well as a couple of postcards to send to Isabela and Mateus. I also found a beautiful notebook with a cover depicting the Northern Lights, which I thought would be perfect for jotting down my travel reflections. The store had a cozy atmosphere, and I enjoyed browsing the shelves and discovering new authors and artists. It reminded me of the small bookstores in Ouro Preto, where I used to spend hours as a child, lost in the world of literature.
Discover unique souvenirs, books, and local crafts at Penninn Eymundsson in Húsavík, the perfect gift shop for every traveler.
As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Húsavík Cape Hotel for dinner. The hotel restaurant offered stunning views of the bay, and the menu featured a range of gourmet dishes made with local ingredients. I decided to try the reindeer steak, which was a culinary adventure in itself. The meat was tender and flavorful, and the presentation was impeccable. My friends ordered the seafood platter and the lamb chops, and we all shared a bottle of Icelandic beer. The atmosphere was elegant and refined, and the service was top-notch. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and discovery.

Discover unparalleled comfort at Húsavík Cape Hotel, your gateway to unforgettable Icelandic adventures including world-class whale watching.
Reflecting on today’s adventures, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Husavik. From the historical insights at the Exploration Museum to the geological wonders of Hljóðaklettar, every moment has been a gift. And tomorrow, we are off to explore Krafla and Mývatn, including hiking and biking. I am excited to see what new adventures await us as we continue our journey through this enchanting land. I am particularly excited about the prospect of relaxing at the Bjóböðin - SPA & Restaurant after a day of hiking and biking. Perhaps I will even try some local craft beers at Naustið. It will be another day of discovery, and I can’t wait to share it with you all.
Until then, bless!
Experience the awe of whale watching in Husavik, Iceland's marine paradise, with cozy stays and incredible adventures with friends.
Meet this Featured Explorer
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Occupation: Historical Building Restoration Consultant
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Country: Canada
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Age: 42
Olá, world! I'm Jose Silva, a historical building restoration consultant with a passion for travel and a deep love for history and culture. Born in the beautiful, historic city of Ouro Preto, Brazil, I now call Kingston, Canada, home. Join me as I explore the world, one historical site, one delicious meal, and one cultural experience at a time. I'll share my insights, tips, and personal anecdotes to inspire your own travel adventures. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or simply someone seeking unique travel experiences, I hope you'll find something to enjoy here!
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