Solo Adventure in Húsavík: Exploring Iceland's Whale-Watching Capital

Turf, Tunes, and Tastes of Húsavík

Today was a delightful immersion into Icelandic culture and a bit of quirky fun here in Húsavík. From exploring historical turf houses to indulging in local delicacies and geeking out over Eurovision, it was a day that perfectly captured the charm of this northern town. I'm always eager to uncover the unique stories a place has to offer, and Húsavík certainly didn't disappoint.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Salka Restaurant, a cozy spot in the heart of Húsavík. Housed in one of the oldest buildings in town, Salka offered a warm and inviting atmosphere. I fueled up with a traditional Icelandic breakfast – skyr with berries and a strong cup of coffee – setting the stage for a day of exploration. The friendly staff and the rustic charm of the restaurant made it a perfect start to my Monday. It reminded me a bit of some of the old cafes Greta and I used to frequent in Berlin, although with a distinctly Icelandic twist.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Salka Restaurant in Húsavík - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

With a full stomach and a sense of adventure, I set off to Grenjaðarstaður - the Old Turfhouse. Located about 30 kilometers south of Húsavík, the drive itself was a treat, offering stunning views of the Icelandic countryside. Grenjaðarstaður is one of Iceland's largest turf houses, and it provided a fascinating glimpse into the island's past. Built in 1865 and inhabited until 1949, the turf house was once a prosperous vicarage. Wandering through the various rooms, I was struck by the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Icelanders who built and lived in these homes. The thick turf walls and the use of lava rocks provided excellent insulation against the harsh Icelandic winters.


Discover the charm of Icelandic heritage at Grenjaðarstaður, the Old Turfhouse, a captivating museum in Húsavík.

The interior was equally fascinating, with rooms paneled with driftwood and filled with artifacts from centuries past. It felt like stepping back in time, imagining the lives of the families who once called this place home. The folk museum, established in 1958, houses around 2000 objects that offer insights into the living conditions and progress of vicarages through time. There was also a functional Lutheran church built in 1865 and a runestone in the cemetery dating back to the Middle Ages. The care and preservation of this historical site were truly impressive.

To preserve our heritage is to preserve ourselves.

Back in Húsavík, it was time for lunch, and I couldn't resist trying the famous Fish and Chips at the harbor. This fast-food joint offers the freshest fish and excellent views over the harbor. The crispy, golden batter and the flaky, succulent fish were a perfect combination, and enjoying it by the bustling pier made it even better. It was a simple yet satisfying meal, and the perfect way to refuel for the afternoon's adventures. I chuckled to myself, thinking how Greta, ever the health-conscious one, would have probably opted for a salad. But hey, when in Iceland, right?


Discover Húsavík's best fish and chips - a culinary delight that brings you closer to Iceland's vibrant seafood heritage.

Next on the agenda was a visit to the Húsavík Eurovision Exhibition. Now, I'll admit, I'm not the biggest Eurovision fan, but I was intrigued by Húsavík's connection to the Netflix movie Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga. The exhibition celebrates the town's role in the movie and the history of Iceland in the Eurovision Song Contest. It was surprisingly entertaining, with costumes, props, and behind-the-scenes footage from the film. I even found myself humming Jaja Ding Dong as I wandered through the exhibits. The exhibition is located on the ground floor of the Cape Hotel, and it’s the only place in the world where you can find exclusive items from past Eurovision acts and original props and costumes from the film. It was a fun and quirky experience, and I left with a newfound appreciation for the Eurovision phenomenon.


Discover the enchanting world of Eurovision at the Húsavík Eurovision Exhibition, a must-visit museum celebrating music, culture, and unforgettable performances.

Before dinner, I decided to do a little shopping at Penninn Eymundsson, a local bookstore and gift shop. I was hoping to find a unique souvenir to take back to Greta, and I wasn't disappointed. The shop had a wide selection of Icelandic books, magazines, and gift items. I ended up buying a beautiful hand-knitted wool scarf, perfect for keeping warm during the Berlin winter. I also picked up a copy of an Icelandic saga, hoping to delve deeper into the island's rich literary history. The staff was friendly and helpful, offering recommendations and sharing stories about the local community.


Explore Penninn Eymundsson in Húsavík, where unique gifts, books, and local treasures await every visitor seeking Icelandic culture.

As evening approached, I made my way to Gamli Baukur for dinner. This restaurant has been a landmark of Húsavík's harbor for centuries. Located right on the seaside, it offers magnificent views of the harbor. The maritime decor and the warm atmosphere made it a perfect place to unwind after a busy day. I ordered the seafood soup, a local specialty, and it was absolutely delicious. The fresh, flavorful broth was filled with generous portions of fish, mussels, and vegetables. It was the perfect comfort food on a chilly Icelandic evening. Gamli Baukur also has live music, which added to the cozy atmosphere.


Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Gamli Baukur in Húsavík - a culinary gem with stunning harbor views.

Reflecting on the day, I felt a deep sense of connection to Húsavík and its people. From the historical turf house to the quirky Eurovision exhibition, every experience offered a unique glimpse into the town's character and charm. The friendly locals, the delicious food, and the stunning scenery all contributed to a day I won't soon forget. It was a reminder of why I love to travel – to discover new cultures, to learn about different ways of life, and to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, I'm planning to explore Húsavíkurfjall and Skálar - Húsavík. I'm also looking forward to trying Heimabakarí for breakfast, Lókal Bistro for lunch and Hlodufell Restaurant & Bar Husavik for dinner. And, if I have time, I might even check out the Geosea Bar. But for now, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of adventure in Iceland's whale-watching capital.

Good night from Húsavík!