Whale-Watching Adventure in Husavik

Exploring Iceland's Fiery Heart and Soaking in Suds

Today was a day of stark contrasts, from the otherworldly landscapes of Krafla to the soothing warmth of a beer spa. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel, to experience the unexpected and find beauty in the most unusual places. I'm so grateful to be sharing these moments with my friends, creating memories that will last a lifetime.


Discover the stunning beauty of Krafla, an active volcanic area in Iceland, with its breathtaking landscapes and geothermal wonders.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at N1 Heitt og grillað. It's amazing how a simple meal can set the tone for the adventures ahead. Fuelled up, we set off towards Krafla, a caldera that's part of a larger volcanic system. As someone with a passion for historical architecture, I find myself equally drawn to the raw, untamed beauty of nature, especially when it tells a story of millennia. Krafla certainly didn't disappoint. The landscape was surreal, with bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles painting a picture of the earth's inner turmoil.

The air was thick with the scent of sulfur, a constant reminder of the powerful forces at play beneath our feet. We hiked around the Víti crater, its turquoise waters a startling contrast to the black, rocky terrain. Víti, meaning hell in Icelandic, got its name from the belief that hell was located beneath volcanoes. It's hard to imagine such a serene place having such a fiery association.

The earth has music for those who listen.

After Krafla, we headed to the Mývatn Activity - Hike and Bike area for some hiking and biking. The area is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, offering trails for all skill levels. We chose a trail that wound through lava fields and past pseudo craters, formations created by steam explosions when hot lava flowed over wetlands. The landscape was dotted with unique flora, hardy plants that have adapted to the harsh volcanic environment. I couldn't help but think of Isabela, who would have loved to see the vibrant colors of the mosses and lichens clinging to the rocks. Maybe next time I can convince her and Mateus to join me on one of these adventures.


Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Mývatn with thrilling hikes and bike tours, uncovering Iceland's unique geology and vibrant wildlife.

Lunch was at Salka Restaurant in Húsavík, a charming spot known for its delicious food and friendly atmosphere. I opted for the grilled lamb, a local specialty, while my friends tried the seafood pasta. The portions were generous, and the flavors were authentic, giving us a true taste of Icelandic cuisine. It's always a pleasure to find a restaurant that not only serves great food but also embodies the spirit of the community.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Salka Restaurant in Húsavík—where every dish tells a story.

After lunch, we decided to embrace the unconventional and head to the Bjórböðin Beer Spa. I must admit, I was a bit skeptical at first. Soaking in a tub of beer? It sounded more like a frat party stunt than a relaxing spa treatment. But I was willing to give it a try, and I'm so glad I did. The spa is located in Árskógssandur, a small village known for its brewery, Kaldi. The setting was idyllic, with views of the surrounding mountains and the Eyjafjörður fjord.


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

We were led to a private room with a wooden tub filled with warm, young beer and live beer yeast. The aroma was surprisingly pleasant, a mix of hops and malt that was both earthy and invigorating. We eased into the tub, the warm liquid enveloping us in a soothing embrace. And yes, there was a tap with cold beer right next to the tub!

As I soaked, I couldn't help but laugh at the absurdity of it all. Here I was, a historical building restoration consultant from Kingston, Canada, sitting in a tub of beer in the middle of Iceland. It was a far cry from the cobblestone streets of Ouro Preto, Brazil, where I grew up, but it was an experience I wouldn't trade for anything. The beer yeast is said to have beneficial effects on the skin, and I must say, I did feel incredibly relaxed and refreshed.

After our soak, we spent some time in the relaxation area, a dimly lit room with comfortable loungers. We drifted off to sleep, lulled by the gentle music and the lingering scent of hops. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and adventure.

For dinner, we decided to stay at the Bjóböðin SPA & Restaurant, known for its beer-related food. I tried a dish that incorporated beer-braised lamb, and it was absolutely delicious. It was interesting to see how beer could be used in so many different ways, not just as a beverage but also as an ingredient in cooking.

Before heading back to Húsavík, we made a stop at Naustið bar. Naustið is a family-run restaurant with a bright, mid-century mariner interior. Entering the bright yellow wooden house felt like stepping back in time and visiting grandma. I savored a glass of local Icelandic beer, reflecting on the day's adventures. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, the perfect place to unwind after a long day. As I sat there, surrounded by the laughter and chatter of locals and tourists alike, I felt a sense of belonging, a connection to this faraway land.


Experience the best of Icelandic seafood at Naustið in Húsavík, where fresh ingredients meet stunning views.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit Hafragilsfoss, a powerful waterfall in Jökulsárgljúfur National Park, and hike Húsavík Mountain for panoramic views of the town and the bay. I'm also hoping to do some souvenir shopping at Krambúðin. I'm already looking forward to another day of exploration and discovery, to uncovering more of Iceland's hidden gems.

This trip has been an incredible reminder of the beauty and wonder that exists in the world, and I'm so grateful to be able to share it with my friends. It's moments like these that make life worth living, that inspire me to keep exploring, to keep learning, and to keep sharing my experiences with others.