Set along the eastern shore of Skjalfandi Bay, Husavik is a delightful town that has come into its own as a tourism destination in recent years. The plankton and fish-rich feeding ground of the surrounding waters have allowed the town to establish itself as the undisputed ‘Whale Watching Capital’ of Europe boasting astonishingly high success rates.
Husavik is one of the best places in the world to see whales in the natural surroundings. Whales are often encountered within 20 minutes of leaving the harbor. They include such magnificent species as the elusive humpback whale and the enormous blue whale.
Things to do in Husavik
The bustling harbor teems with colorful trawlers. It is set against a stunning backdrop of granite mountains that are artfully snow-capped, even in summer. The picturesque coastline makes for some good walks along grassy headlands and small beaches. Seals are often spotted from there. Nature lovers also enjoy the rich birdlife, botanical gardens, nearby campgrounds and golf course.
Husavik is one of the oldest settlement in the country. It boasts a flourishing cultural scene with a full program of theatrical performances and music festivals. The Museum House serves as the district’s cultural center. It houses a maritime museum, natural history museum, folk museum, district archives, photograph archives, and an art gallery. Before heading out on a sail through the ocean in pursuit of those gentle giants, visit the superb harbor-side Husavik Whale Museum. It exhibits the history of whales and whaling in North Iceland as well as a number of whale skeletons on display.
Husavik is located on the eastern shore of the Skjalfandi bay and is a highly popular destination for those interested in whales. The town is truly the centre of whale related activates and themes, offering a wide range of whale watching tours as well as being the home of the Husavik Whale Centre, a stylish and informative museum on whales.
But it’s not only whales that attract visitors to Husavik each year. The Husavik museum is certainly worth the visit, and the town hosts a broad variety of restaurants and cafés.
Husavik boasts one of the oldest settlements in Iceland and it is considered that the history goes all the way back to the year 870. In recent years, tourist related services have become increasingly important for the community’s economy, which otherwise is largely based on fishing and fish processing.
Check out our complete guide to travelling in North Iceland.
