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

A Day of Icelandic Discoveries

Today was all about embracing the raw beauty and rich history that Fosshotel Husavik has to offer. From challenging myself with a hike to uncovering the stories of a bygone era, and finally relaxing in a geothermal bath with a cool drink, it was a day that truly captured the spirit of Iceland.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Heimabakarí. I was looking forward to trying some traditional Icelandic pastries, but sadly it seems that Heimabakarí has closed down permanently. So I grabbed a quick bite elsewhere before heading out. The weather was crisp, with the promise of snow in the air, perfect for a hike up Húsavíkurfjall.


Explore the breathtaking Húsavíkurfjall mountain peak in Iceland for stunning views, hiking adventures, and unforgettable nature experiences.

Conquering Húsavíkurfjall

The ascent up Húsavíkurfjall was invigorating. The trail was moderately challenging, but the panoramic views awaiting me at the summit kept me motivated. As I climbed, I could see the town of Húsavík shrinking below, the colorful buildings becoming like tiny Lego blocks. The Skjálfandi Bay stretched out before me, a vast expanse of grey water meeting the horizon.

The wind picked up as I neared the top, a biting reminder that winter was in full swing. But the view was worth every shiver. From the summit, I could see the Kinnarfjöll mountains in the distance, their peaks dusted with snow. On a clear day, they say you can even see the islands of Flatey and Lundey, but today, they were hidden behind a veil of clouds. Still, the vista was breathtaking.

To walk in nature is to witness a thousand miracles.

After soaking in the scenery and snapping a few photos, I began my descent, the promise of warmth and history drawing me back down the mountain.

Skálar: Echoes of the Past

My next stop was Skálar, an abandoned village that offered a glimpse into Iceland's past. Located a short drive from Húsavík, Skálar was once a thriving community, its livelihood dependent on the sea.

As I wandered through the remains of the village, I could almost hear the echoes of its former inhabitants. The foundations of old houses, the trolley tracks of the fish factory, all spoke of a life that once was. The village was most lively around 1920, with about 120 inhabitants. In 1923, the second freezing fish factory in Iceland was built in Skálar.

The reasons for its abandonment are many: bad docking conditions, changes in the fishing industry, and the global crisis of 1930. The last residents left in 1955, leaving Skálar to the elements. Two mines exploded in the winter of 1941-1942 near the shore, damaging houses. In the fall of 1942, Americans built a radar station on the hill above the village called Camp Greely. Forty-six soldiers lived there in twenty-four Nissen huts. The locals had friendly contact with the soldiers, who gave canned goods to the families and gifts to the children during Christmas. The world war also had negative effects, such as naval mines drifting ashore.

Standing there, amidst the ruins, I felt a profound sense of connection to the past. It was a humbling reminder of the resilience and resourcefulness of the Icelandic people.

Lunch at Lókal Bistro

By now, I was ravenous, so I headed to Lókal Bistro for a late lunch. This cozy bistro is known for its healthy alternatives to fast food, with an emphasis on local and fresh ingredients. I opted for a hearty lamb stew, a traditional Icelandic dish that warmed me from the inside out. The bistro was bustling with activity, a mix of locals and tourists all seeking refuge from the cold. The staff was friendly and welcoming, adding to the cozy atmosphere.


Experience authentic Icelandic flavors at Lókal Bistro in Húsavík – your perfect café retreat amidst breathtaking landscapes.

Geosea Bar: A Relaxing Finale

With my body and soul replenished, I decided to end the day at the Geosea Bar. This unique spot combines a geothermal sea bath with a bar, offering stunning views of the North Atlantic Ocean.


Experience stunning ocean views and local flavors at Geosea Bar in Húsavík, Iceland's coastal gem.

As I sank into the warm, mineral-rich waters, I felt my muscles relax and my mind unwind. The Geosea baths are known for their healing effects on the skin, and I could already feel the tension of the day melting away. I ordered a local craft beer from the pool bar and sipped it slowly, watching as the sky transformed into a canvas of breathtaking colors.

The Geosea Bar is more than just a place to drink; it's an experience. It's a place where you can soak in the beauty of Iceland, both literally and figuratively. The modern architecture complements the natural beauty. The bar uses locally sourced ingredients in their drinks.

Tomorrow, I'm planning to explore North Sailing - Húsavík Whale Watching and the Húsavík Academic Center. I might also check out the Húsavík Whale Museum.

As I reflect on the day, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences I've had. Húsavík is a town that truly captures the essence of Iceland: its natural beauty, its rich history, and its warm hospitality. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.