The Ring road does not take you to one of the most magical parts of Iceland, the western fjords. With rough roads, steep inclines, and extreme weather, the Western Fjords is not for the faint-hearted.
It was early in the season. Some campsites were fully open yet. I pick a spot and settle down near the town of Flókalundur. I came across a sign that looked like the thing below
Could it be a hot spring right on the side of the road?
Yes indeed! Enjoying this unexpected pleasure, I set a goal to try to soak at least once per day. At least, I should say that I may need it. The 24-hour daylight in June was taking a toll on my sleep pattern. Relaxation could be the key to some blissful sleep.
Some more rough western fjord highland roads brought me to Dynjandi falls, one of the biggest natural attractions in the Western Fjords.
Arriving early in the morning(thanks jetlag!), I have Dynjandi fall by myself.
The water of the falls was delicious to drink, and the BBQ nearby, well, feels unique for sure.
(insert viking BBQ)
After another hour of almost running over all the sheep on the “highway” 60, I arrived in the windy town of Ísafjörður. The Westernfjords History Museum featured some interesting documentaries, a cute cat, and some decorated accordions.
Time to get back onto my daily mission of finding a hot spring! On the 61 “highway,” there are 2 hot springs that are not too far away from the main road. However, both would require you to get permission from the owner.
The picture above clever hid the fact that the wind was 70 km/h, and I could barely keep my car in the middle of the road. This is something typical of the northern parts of the Western Fjords, so be prepared to feel the raw power of nature!
Route 68 brought me back to the Ring Road. The sun was still high, but the rough roads and fighting the wind had me looking for a spot to crawl into my sleeping bag.
Who doesn’t want to start the day with a superb shower? I found the best secret hot springs on this trip on the Northern parts of the ring road. Gorgeous views, hot springs, with cold waterfall on a slightly rainy day, having the hot springs by myself is the best thing in the world.
Another part of the scenic drive brings me to the evergreen town of Akureyri.
The biggest attractions around Akureyri would probably be around the Lake Myvatn and the Diamond Circle areas. Sites around Lake Myvatn like Godafoss, Dimmuborgir lava field, Grjótagjá hot springs cave, volcanic lake(very windy), or most importantly, the Myvatn Nature Baths.
If you love whale watching, don’t forget to hit up Húsavík. The outfitter I went with, Gentle Giant, had me gear up head to toe on a speed boat. Fish and chips at the whale watching harbor were tasty and surprisingly cheap as well.
If you are really feeling lazy, bring your own binoculars and head to the Geosea. Infinite pool whale spotting with a beer in hand is such a rare luxury.
Two other little towns that are worth stopping by are Dalvik and Haugaunes. The Tvistur Horse Rental offers scenic horseback riding tours near a picturesque valley with some sweet, sweet horses. The hostess will even write down your horse’s name on your receipt and welcome you back with some hot coffee.
Two things in Haugaunes are worth spending time on: the Baccalá Bar and the hot pots. If you are feeling brave, try the stinky shark with Snaps. You will be richly rewarded with a piece of paper that shows you have successfully gotten control of your gag reflexes.
The stretch of highway 1 between Akureyri and Eastern Iceland is incredibly desolate. That is where part of the diamond circle is located. You might not see a car for an hour, but don’t worry, cell phone signals exist in the most rural of places. However, do watch your gas, though! No gas station for more than 100 km!
Awaits you on the Eastern side not far from the Ring Road is, well you guess it, a bath! The carefully designed Vök Baths curiously extended its three pools into the lake nearby. Intermittently submerging yourself in the cold lake water after some hot soak does wonders for your body. I also made sure to add on a bit more of some delicious relaxant — Aperol Spritz.
Lastly, let’s not forget the food. If you are around Egilsstaðir, don’t forget to check out Nielsen restaurant. It will “deliciously” break your bank with the succulent lamb chop.
While my biological clock is still waiting for the never-ending daylight to turn dark, I poured myself some Icelandic gin while staring at the Lagarfljót. Who knows, maybe “Nessy’s” cousin might decide to show up today.
