Northern Iceland is a special region offering unique experiences not experienced by those who only visit the country’s southern and western portions. In the north, you’ll find an idyllic stretch of the famed Ring Road, passing through places like Húsavík, Iceland’s whale-watching capital. In addition, you’ll discover less-crowded alternatives to the popular Blue Lagoon and can explore Askja, one of the country’s wildest regions. But don’t worry, the north also boasts waterfalls, mountains, glaciers, and thermal baths!
## Discover the Untamed Beauty of Northern Iceland
Most travelers, when they envision a trip to Iceland, tend to gravitate towards the well-trodden paths of the south and west. These regions undoubtedly boast some of the most iconic and popular natural attractions the country has to offer. However, venturing off the beaten track and exploring **Northern Iceland** reveals a special and unique region with equally breathtaking highlights, allowing you to immerse yourself in the raw beauty of Iceland without the overwhelming crowds often found elsewhere.
In the charming town of **Húsavík**, often referred to as the whale-watching capital of Iceland, you have the extraordinary opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat from the bustling harbor. For a different perspective, consider embarking on a horseback riding adventure along the dramatic coastline, allowing you to connect with the landscape in a truly authentic way.
For those seeking a truly unforgettable experience, a journey further inland to explore **Askja** is highly recommended. This remote and rugged region is one of Iceland’s wildest and most captivating areas, characterized by its otherworldly landscapes and volcanic formations.
Consider making the vibrant city of **Akureyri** your base in the north. It is home to a surprisingly fun nightlife scene and a burgeoning food culture that will delight your senses. When you crave the quintessential Icelandic charm, you can still indulge in the therapeutic warmth of thermal baths and witness the awe-inspiring power of roaring waterfalls, all while enjoying a more serene and uncrowded atmosphere.
## Indulge in the Soothing Embrace of Thermal Pools
While the **Blue Lagoon** undeniably holds a special place in many travelers’ itineraries, offering a truly unique and memorable experience, **Northern Iceland** also beckons with its own collection of relaxing thermal pools. These geothermal havens provide a tranquil escape, allowing you to bask in the healing benefits of warm mineral waters amidst stunning natural surroundings.
### **Mývatn Nature Baths**: A Northern Alternative
Many visitors prioritize a trip to the Blue Lagoon, but **Northern Iceland** presents a compelling alternative with its own milky-hued thermal oasis: the **Mývatn Nature Baths**. These baths feature alkaline-rich waters, naturally heated by the Earth’s geothermal energy, creating a wonderfully relaxing and soothing soak. In addition to the rejuvenating waters, you can also experience the unique steam bath, where geothermal steam rises from vents in the floor, enveloping you in a warm and therapeutic embrace.
As you immerse yourself in the comforting waters, allow yourself to be captivated by the breathtaking scenery that surrounds the baths and the nearby **Lake Mývatn**. The panoramic views of the volcanic landscape and serene waters create an unforgettable sensory experience.
### **GeoSea Geothermal Baths**: Modern Relaxation with Ocean Views
The **GeoSea Geothermal Baths** stand out as one of Iceland’s most modern and innovative thermal spas. These baths pay homage to the local traditions of the nearby fishing village of **Húsavík** by harnessing a unique combination of mineral-rich seawater and the Earth’s core heat to provide a truly revitalizing and healing experience.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the **GeoSea Geothermal Baths** is its stunning location overlooking **Skjálfandi Bay**. This bay is renowned for its exceptional whale-watching opportunities and, during the winter months, its mesmerizing displays of the Northern Lights dancing across the night sky. Imagine yourself immersed in warm, mineral-rich waters, gazing out at the vast expanse of the ocean, perhaps even catching a glimpse of whales breaching the surface or the ethereal glow of the aurora borealis.
## Encounter the Enchanting Animals & Wildlife
One of the most compelling aspects of Iceland is its captivating wildlife, which includes the unique Icelandic horse breed and the diverse marine life that inhabits the country’s coastal waters.
### **Húsavík Whale Watching**: A World-Renowned Experience
**Húsavík** has earned its reputation as Iceland’s whale-watching capital thanks to the world-renowned **Skjálfandi Bay**. This bay serves as a haven for a diverse array of marine life, including various whale species, playful porpoises, and numerous seabirds that fill the sky with their calls. The proximity of these magnificent creatures to the harbor means you don’t have to venture far to witness them in their natural habitat.
Consider embarking on a whale-watching tour aboard a quiet, carbon-neutral boat. This eco-conscious approach ensures a more pleasant and less disruptive experience for both you and the animals, allowing you to observe them with minimal impact on their environment.
### **Seaside Horseback Riding near Húsavík**: Exploring Coastal Beauty
Explore the breathtaking scenery surrounding **Húsavík** on horseback, as you journey along the rugged coastline and ascend into the rolling hills, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of **Skjálfandi Bay**. This region is affectionately known as the “World of Whales” due to its significant population of these magnificent marine mammals.
Your horseback riding adventure will take you past **Salfarm Farm**, providing an opportunity to learn about the country’s unique breed of Icelandic horses, known for their sturdy build and gentle temperament. You’ll also gain insights into the region’s rich history and cultural heritage as you traverse the landscape.
## Experience the Power of Nature
Iceland is synonymous with powerful and awe-inspiring natural forces, earning its title as the land of fire and ice. In the northern region, you can venture into unique and less-crowded areas, such as majestic waterfalls and the otherworldly landscapes of **Askja**, a lunar-like terrain dotted with crater lakes and imposing mountain peaks.
### **Jeep Tour to Askja**: An Adventure into the Highlands
Venture off the beaten path and embark on a thrilling Jeep tour to **Askja**, a remote area nestled deep within the Northern Highlands of Iceland. The landscape here is dominated by surreal, lunar-like formations, a majestic table mountain peak that pierces the sky, and mesmerizing crater lakes formed by the volcanic collapse of a magma chamber.
Your journey to Askja will take you past rushing rivers and through idyllic nature reserves, providing a glimpse into the pristine beauty of the Icelandic wilderness. You’ll then traverse the rugged terrain of the **Dyngjufjöll Mountain Range**, a dramatic and imposing landscape that will leave you in awe. Enjoy a leisurely walk from the **Vikraborgir** craters to **Askja’s** famed electric-blue crater lake, **Víti**, a unique and unforgettable sight.
### **Visit Goðafoss Waterfall**: A Waterfall of Legend
Located conveniently between **Akureyri** and **Húsavík**, the powerful **Goðafoss** waterfall is a sight that is hard to miss. Its name, meaning “Waterfall of the Gods,” hints at its historical and cultural significance.
Park your car and take a short walk to the main viewing point of the waterfall, where you can witness the cascading waters plunging into the river below. For a more immersive experience, consider a slightly longer trek around the cascade, allowing you to discover different viewpoints and perspectives of this natural wonder. As you marvel at the thunderous roar of the waterfall, reflect on the local legend that claims the Nordic gods were thrown into **Goðafoss** when Iceland converted to Christianity, adding a layer of mystique to this already captivating location.
### **Wonders of Lake Mývatn & Dettifoss**: A Region of Diverse Landscapes
The volcanic **Lake Mývatn** is a destination worthy of a visit on its own, but it’s the surrounding landscapes and natural wonders that truly attract visitors from around the world. In this scenic lake region, you can explore a diverse array of attractions, including the fascinating rock formations at the **Dimmuborgir Lava Park**, the unusual craters at **Skútustaðagígar**, bubbling geothermal areas that hint at the Earth’s inner power, the impressive **Víti** and **Hverfjall** craters, and the mysterious **Grjótagjá Lava Cave**, made famous by its appearance in the popular television series Game of Thrones.
Additionally, not too far from the lake lies **Dettifoss**, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, a truly awe-inspiring display of nature’s raw energy. Witness the immense volume of water cascading over the cliff edge, creating a thunderous roar and a misty spray that fills the air.
### **Hike Ásbyrgi Canyon**: A Geological Wonder
You could easily dedicate an entire day to hiking in the scenic **Ásbyrgi Canyon** in Northern Iceland, with its network of numerous trails that wind through the canyon’s dramatic landscape. However, if your time is limited, take the trail from the Visitors Center to the top of the towering 300-foot (100-m) high cliffs. From this vantage point, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the canyon below, which was carved out by catastrophic flooding events approximately 10,000 years ago and again around 3,000 years ago.
While the geological explanation is fascinating, be sure to ask a local about the legend of the god Odin’s eight-legged horse, Sleipnir, who, according to folklore, stamped the canyon into existence with its powerful horseshoes.
## Crafting the Perfect Northern Iceland Itinerary
Thanks to the country’s renowned **Ring Road**, accessing Northern Iceland and exploring this captivating region is relatively straightforward. The journey is easily combined with a day or two in the vibrant capital city of **Reykjavik**. For those with more time to spare, a trip to the north can seamlessly integrate with visits to other Icelandic regions, such as the iconic **Golden Circle**, the dramatic **South Coast**, and the stunning **Snæfellsnes Peninsula**.
The ideal amount of time to spend in Iceland depends on your desired level of exploration and the time of year you plan to travel. Consider the limited daylight hours during the winter months and plan accordingly, allowing for a few extra days to compensate for the reduced sunlight. Because the north is situated slightly off the main tourist routes, it’s best to allocate at least one week in Iceland to fully appreciate its unique charm. Extending your stay to two weeks will provide ample time to explore another region or two, creating an even more enriching and unforgettable Icelandic adventure.
Past kimkim travelers have crafted and enjoyed the following itineraries, which showcase the remarkable experiences available in Northern Iceland, providing inspiration for your own personalized journey:
* Best of Northern Iceland: Arctic Coast & Lake Mývatn – 6 Days
* Best of Iceland’s West & North – 7 Days
* Iceland Off The Beaten Path: West and North Escape – 10 Days
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