Towns and Villages of Iceland's Arctic North
The reflections of of Húsavík.
Produced in Collaboration With Inspired by Iceland
Words & Photography by Alison Engstrom
As word has gotten out about the breathtaking beauty of Iceland, more and more travelers are flocking to the country each year. While travelers might stick close to Reykjavík and explore what the Ring Road has to offer, by venturing to points north you can discover the Diamond Circle, which opened in fall 2020. This 150-mile thoroughfare crosses over otherworldly terrain from lava fields, sweeping views of fjords, horse farms, and jagged mountain peaks to quaint fishing villages woven in between. Each town has something unique to offer including glimpses into the countries storied past, delicious restaurants, and more.
The picturesque town of Húsavík, nestled next to Skjálfandi Bay, offers adventures on both land and sea. Offshore, the Arctic waters boast a unique ecosystem and during the high season whale sightings are common. A total of 23 species have been spotted—humpback, blue whales, and minke to name a few—which is why it’s referred to as the whale watching capital of Iceland. There are many tour companies that offer trips out to sea, like North Sailing and Húsavík Adventures. On land, visitors can explore the quaint locale which includes restaurants, shops, museums, and cafés all housed in chromatic buildings. An absolute must while visiting the area is GeoSea baths to take in the splendid vistas of the Arctic, all while soaking up the benefits of geothermal water.
Húsavík’s wooden church, which stands in the middle of town.
Located along the Arctic Coastway, a serpentine road that hugs the northern most coast and stretches over 500 miles, you’ll come across Siglufjörður. This fishing town, nestled under a towering mountain range offers history—it used to be the heart of herring fishing until the 60s—skiing, hiking, restaurants, and more.
The exterior of the Herring Era Museum.
What to see
Take a walk back in Iceland’s rich fishing history with a stop at the Herring Era Museum, an industry that thrived from 1867 to 1968 making it the largest populated town in the 20th century. While the area was ultimately overfished and abandoned for the most part, visitors can take in where the Herring Girls slept, see the large wooden fishing boats that are housed indoors, and discover how oil was created.
Where to Stay & EAT
The Sigló Hótel, a new water-front 4-star property, offers a cozy stay in the town’s fishing marina with stellar views of the Siglufjord and mountains. At the hotel, guests can choose between classic rooms and suite options, all which have access to the sauna and outdoor spa that faces the water. At night, linger in the water and hope for a viewing of the Northern Lights.
For dining options, look no further than Sunna, the on-site restaurant that serves local fare like seafood soup with langoustine and blue mussels, baked pumpkin strewn in an herb vinaigrette, and oven-baked cod with butter-laced potato puree. To satiate a sweet tooth head next door the bright yellow fishing building that houses Hannes Boy where they serve ice cream, waffles, and a variety of hot beverages. Further afoot is Kaffi Rauðka where they offer plates including pizza, salad, and soups.
*Due to the pandemic both Hannes Boy and Kaffi Rauðka are temporarily closed. Be sure to check their website beforehand.
The heated pool at the Sigló Hotel.
The exterior of the Sigló hotel.
While only a very small village, Hauganes, which has a current population of 137 people, has made a name for itself. The destination, situated next to Eyjafjordur Bay is known for fishing, bacalao, or salted cod, which is prized by chefs and diners around the globe. Here you’ll find a delicious restaurant, hiking, camping, and geothermal baths.
Ektafiskur’s Baccalá Bar
For a memorable meal, enjoy lunch or dinner at Baccalá bar, a seaside family-run operation in Hauganes. Them menu runs the gamut of burgers and salads, but if you choose an option like the fish and chips, or the grilled Arctic char, you won’t be disappointed. Next door, you’ll find the bacalao operation where fish is dried, salted, and then shipped to points around the world. ektafiskur.is
The Arctic char served over root vegetables.
The blue steepled church in Hofsós.
The tranquil seaside village of Hofsós dates back over 400 years when it was once a bustling trading port. Today, visitors to the town can explore the basalt formations of Staðarbjargavík, the Icelandic Emigration Center, a Vintage Auto Museum, and the Hofsós swimming pool, a sublime soaking experience with unparalleled views of Drangey Island.
The views near the Hofsós pool.
The Church of Akureyri towering over the town at night.
The capital of the north, Akureyri is the second-largest city outside Reykjavik with just under 20,000 residents. Visitors to the town, which is marked with the futuristic Lutheran Church of Akureyri built in 1940, will uncover a thriving destination with cafés, shops, culture, and sweeping mountain views. The destination serves as a great starting or midpoint for exploring the surrounding region. Within its limits, you’ll discover the Akureyri Botanical Garden, a swimming pool, skiing at Mount Hlíðarfjall, Northern Light viewings, and more. It’s heartwarming to note they have red traffic lights in the shape of a heart, a symbol that was put into effect after the economic crash in 2008. Locals say it’s about smiling with your heart as you drive through town.
Hafnarstræti, the charming shopping area in Akureyri.
Where to Shop & Eat in Akureyri
Step into the world of intentional design and slow-living at Fjord Home. Started in 2019 by designer Anna Örvarsso, the shop located in the town center offers sustainable and small-batch goods including ribbed pillar candles, Belgian linens, their signature home scent, and Bell lamps by Andreas Lund and Jacob Rudbeck. For the little ones in your life, stop into Ohana, where you can peruse an ample selection of children’s clothing and kid-friendly items. Wool sweaters are synonymous with Iceland and you’ll discover a great collection at Icewear Iceland, be sure to look for the hand-knitted tag.
After enjoying the town, grab a coffee and pastry at Te & Kaffe inside Penninn Eymundsson, Iceland’s oldest bookstore chain that was started in 1872. You can browse their assortment of magazines—you’ll find many dedicated to the craft of knitting, Icelandic style—and books; they also stock everything from Hay’s sleek design objects to art supplies and souvenirs. Another café worth trying is Bláa Kannan, which is housed in the most striking blue facade in town, where they offer a menu of salads, paninis, homemade desserts, and fresh breads. Kristjánsbakarí, which has been a mainstay since 1912 treats guests to pastries like Kanelsnúður (Icelandic cinnamon rolls), loaves of bread, coffee, and more. For dinner, book a table at Rub 23, where they offer up a fusion menu inspired by Japanese, European, and local cuisine. Start with the fried edamame or the sticky BBQ cauliflower; for a main, try the vegan steak or a variety of locally caught fish like chard and cod. Múlaberg, located inside Hotel Kea, serves lunch and dinner with dishes like baked dímon cheese, a local favorite, served alongside griddled bread, wild mushroom broth, to the catch of the day.
A local fish dish served at Múlaberg Bistro & Bar.
How To Get To The North from Reykjavík
Visitors wanting to visit North Iceland have the option of driving the 400 kilometers, or roughly six hours—but undoubtedly will take longer if you want to stop and take photos while en route. There are daily flights out of Reykjavík to Akureyri with Air Iceland Connect, the short flight takes 45 minutes.