Northern Iceland takes you off the beaten path of the southwestern Reykjavik area. Plus, it’s closer to the Arctic Circle, that can be explored by either road along the epic Arctic Coast Way or ship’s ports. As “The Capital of the North,” Akureyri is an incredible hub from which to explore this part of Iceland, epecially for the Northern Lights. As an Acupuncturist-at-Sea, I stopped at this port numerous times. So, check out this Akureyri, Iceland Travel Guide to learn about my adventures and these destinations: Akureyri, Husavik Whale Watching, Godafoss, Lake Nyhavn and Laufas Heritage Site.
Akureyri – Capital of Northern Iceland
This town is the second largest in Iceland (Reykjavik is largest) with 19,000 people. Because of geological factors and mild climate, it’s renowned for the town’s ice-free harbour. Plus, it’s located on one of the longest fjords in Iceland, Evjajordur.
Amongst dramatic landscapes, this village also has the most vibrant Folk culture in Iceland. It’s known for reputable restaurants and bars. Also, it holds many summer festivals, such as, the Akureyri International Music Festival. There are eclectic museums here, for example, the Akureyri Art Museum and Aviation Museum. The Tourist Information at the City Hall near the ship terminal s is a great place to start for organizing tours, getting maps and planning your time here.
Akureyri Travel Guide & Highlights
Akureyri is easy to explore on a walking tour. There is much to see in sections, such as, the Old Town, Art or Kaupvangsstraeti Street, Oddeyri Spit and Harbour, and Old Town.
Like most people, I was drawn to the dramatic Akureyrarkirkja Church (The Church of Akureyri). This prominent modernist-style Lutheran Church is perched on a hill with many steps to its panoramic view. This church was designed by the same architect, Guðjón Samúelsson, that designed the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Church in Reykjavik. Also, it’s the second largest church in Iceland is renowned for its 3200-pipe organ.
Akureyri Botanical Gardens or Lystigardur
My favorite thing to see in town is the Akureyri Botanical Garden. Sheltered in the Eyjafjord, the microclimate for plant growth is wonderful. Even more, Lystigardur is the world’s most northerly botanical garden. It’s open from June 1 – September 30. From my experience, seeing the gardens in June – July is the best with the most flowers. By mid-August the flowers are starting to wane.
Ultimately, the purpose of this garden is to grow perennials, shrubs and trees in the harsh climate of Northern Ireland. Overall, the colorful spectacle showcases approx. 430 native species and over 6000 non-native plants. It has a cafe, fountains, greenhouse and numerous walking paths to enjoy the plant life.
Husavik and Whale-watching
Just 75 km from Akureyri, my tour drove to picturesque Husavik, a center for whale-watching on Skjalfandi Bay. Diverse whale species are spotted here, such as, the baleen Minkes, humpbacks and Fin. Also, the toothed Orcas and Sperm whales are located in Iceland. Because of the seismic activities in the area, this bay’s name translates to “Shaky Bay.” Thankfully, on my whale-watching excursion there was no shaking. However, it was cold and windy, even though it was July.
For the first time, I experienced a whale watching excursion that required wearing a wetsuit. Thus, I bundled up and enthusiastically waited and waited and waited to see a whale. Finally, we saw 1 humpback. In my opinion, our boat got too close to the whale for my comfort. However, in Iceland it’s not required to keep as far of a distance from whales as the U.S.
Disappointed, finally we returned to shore after seeing 1 whale flip its fluke into a dive. I don’t mean to be ungrateful, but this is probably the quietest whale watching excursion of my life. Plus, it required the drama of putting on the wetsuits.
Overall, my experience was not so great. However, they have a wonderful reputation for whale-watching in this bay. As all wildlife tours go, anything is possible, good or bad, and that is part of the adventure.
Godafoss “Waterfalls of the Gods”
Ultimately, this extraordinary place lives up to its name, Godafoss or “Waterfalls of the Gods.” It came from Thorgeir’s story, that he threw his Norse God statues into the falls, as a symbol of converting to Christianity. It’s an amazing place to see the blue-green cascades fall from a height of 12 meters and a width of 30 meters. Even more, there are many trails that get close to the falls from above and below. However, be sure to keep an eye on your watch if you’re on a tour. I got so lost in time that my tour bus took off looking for me, and thankfully turned around to pick me up screaming and frantically flailing my arms.
The historic village, Tangagata, is intriguingly spread out on a spit of sand. Overall, it’s a wonderful place to go on a walking tour. Encased by the fjord walls, the picturesque neighborhoods have numerous gabled, tin homes often brightly painted. I really enjoyed my day here on an independent walking tour amongst the stunning and charming views.
Lake Myvatn
Myvatn is a shallow near Krafla volcano. Its lake and the surrounding wetlands provide a habitat for many migratory birds. The lake is especially known for having more species of ducks than anywhere else in the world. There are numerous sites to see in the Lake Myvatn area. The Myvatn Nature Baths are the “Blue Lagoon” of the north and a must-see destination to take in this Icelandic tradition. Immersed in wonderful scenery the milky blue baths include luxuries, such as, a cafe, steam baths and swim-up bar. Also, nearby are the lava caves with hot spring at Grjotagja, featured in Game of Thrones. Additionally, Dimmuborgur (Dark Castles) is one of the most popular stops in northern Iceland. These unique lava formations create the surreal scene of an Elvish city with even a cathedral
Laufas Heritage Site
Just 30 km from Akureyri, the Laufas Heritage Site is an original farmstead from the Icelandic settlers. Immersed in a stunning setting with views of the fjord, it takes a look into the lifestyle from the past with these turf houses. This historic landmark includes a 19th century timber church and vicarage, with a maze of linked rooms. Also, the Laufas Visitor Centre offers additional information about the area with a small cafe and Icelandic ponies that visit on Sundays.
Overall, Akureyri Travel Guide
If you make it to this unique and rugged geothermal island paradise, do not miss out on northern Iceland. Its off-beaten path takes you to spectacular fjords, waterfalls, gardens, hiking and whale watching, that many visitors never see. So, you can expect less crowds and more serene travel.
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