Today has been incredibly thrilling, filled with minimal travel yet maximum fun. Staying just 20 kilometers from downtown Akureyri, we’ve found ourselves regretting not delving deeper into Akureyri’s wonders. It’s astonishing to discover such a beautiful and lively town tucked away in the northern reaches of Iceland. Our day began with a homemade omelette and coffee, enjoyed beside the serene lake at our Ytri Cottage in Vik. Swiftly, we set out on the road to explore several enchanting waterfalls.
The Goðafoss waterfall, a breathtaking natural wonder in Iceland, impresses with its 12-meter drop over a 30-meter width along the river Skjálfandafljót. Conveniently, the ring road passes right by, providing parking on both sides and well-maintained paths to viewing platforms. Keep in mind that there’s no vehicle bridge connecting the two sides, but a walkway bridge allows you to traverse for a panoramic experience. During our visit, we were captivated by the sight of adventure enthusiasts bravely kayaking down the 12-meter descent. Exploring both sides of the waterfall, complete with paved walkways and viewing points, takes about an hour. The surrounding area offers amenities like a souvenir shop, washrooms, and a small cafe, creating a comfortable environment for visitors.
For those seeking more adventure, a detour from Route 844 leads to Aldeyjarfoss and Hrsfnabjargafoss, situated in an ancient lava field. Accessible only by 4×4 vehicles, this side trip adds approximately 3 hours and 90 kilometers to your journey. Although we opted to skip this detour, our day took an even more thrilling turn as we had pre-booked a once-in-a-lifetime experience—whale watching in Húsavík.
Before boarding our pirate-themed ship, we made a stop in the picturesque town of Húsavík for a quick lunch. Choosing the renowned Lókal Bistro, celebrated for its crepes, soups, salads, and wraps, proved to be an excellent decision. Their daily specials did not disappoint, and the delightful meal was complemented by the perfect setting—a sunny day, a cafe facing the ocean, and the charming ambiance of the small town. Energized by the delicious lunch, we eagerly headed for our highly anticipated whale-watching trip, marking a highlight of our Icelandic adventure.
We opted for North Sailing’s Húsavík whale-watching experience, a choice influenced by Husavik’s reputation as one of Iceland’s premier whale-watching spots. After booking online, we checked in and boarded the boat, where we were provided with waterproof snow suits. Initially underestimated, the suits proved essential once we were in the heart of the ocean, keeping us warm and dry during the entire 3-hour Whale Watching Trip.
This extraordinary experience, guided by knowledgeable experts, allowed us to encounter 7-8 Humpbacks, Orcas, dolphins, and seals up close. Contrary to our expectations, the marine life wasn’t observed from a distance—there were moments when whale blow spray reached us, and whales swam right beside our boat. The expedition provided valuable insights into their lives, behaviours, and intelligence. As a delightful conclusion, the tour wrapped up with a cup of Hot Chocolate and Cinnamon Buns on the boat while cruising back to the dock. The memories of this encounter with majestic creatures remain vivid, leaving an indelible mark on our minds.
Taking advantage of the 50% discount offered with our whale-watching ticket, we explored the Whale Museum—an ingenious marketing strategy for the town’s tourist attractions. Immersing ourselves in the exhibits, we spent an enriching hour learning about whales and their lives.
As the eventful day concluded, we made our way to our accommodation, situated just 9 kilometres on the outskirts of Húsavík. True to our Icelandic experience, the lodging was both beautiful and modern, equipped with all amenities. Once again, the open landscapes visible from our bedroom window added to the overall charm of our stay.
Two Yellow Jackets 