Travel Guide of Hvalfjörður in Iceland by Influencers and Travelers
Hvalfjörður is situated in the west of Iceland between Mosfellsbær and Akranes. The fjord is approximately 30 km long and 5 km wide. The origin of the name Hvalfjörður is uncertain.
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Pictures and Stories of Hvalfjörður from Influencers
Picture from Einar H. Reynis who have traveled to Hvalfjörður
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How to visit Hvalfjörður ?
Why traveling there?
Hvalfjörður, meaning "Whale Fjord" in Icelandic, is a breathtaking destination located in the west of Iceland, just a short drive from Reykjavik. The fjord is known for its stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and rich history. Traveling to Hvalfjörður offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and explore the serene beauty of Iceland's countryside, with opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and even spotting whales and seals.
How to get there?
Hvalfjörður is easily accessible from Reykjavik, with a drive of approximately 45-60 minutes. The most convenient way to get there is by renting a car and following Route 1 (the Ring Road) north from Reykjavik. Alternatively, you can join organized day tours from the city that include transportation and guided activities in the area.
What to book in advance?
While it's not necessary to book anything in advance for a visit to Hvalfjörður, it might be a good idea to reserve a rental car or a spot on a guided tour, especially during the peak travel season (June to August). If you plan to stay overnight in the area, it's also advisable to book accommodations in advance.
What are the costs?
The costs of visiting Hvalfjörður will largely depend on your choice of transportation, accommodations, and activities. Renting a car can cost around $50-$100 per day, while guided tours vary in price but can start around $100 per person. Accommodations can range from budget-friendly guesthouses to more luxurious lodges, with prices starting at around $80 per night.
What are the best things to do?
1. Hiking at Glymur Waterfall: Take a scenic hike to Iceland's second-highest waterfall, Glymur, which offers incredible views and photo opportunities.
2. Wildlife watching: Keep an eye out for seals, whales, and various bird species during your visit.
3. Exploring historical sites: Visit the remains of an old whaling station, a World War II naval base, and a church dating back to the 19th century.
Where to eat?
1. Matarbúrið: Located in nearby Akranes, Matarbúrið offers delicious Icelandic cuisine made from locally-sourced ingredients.
2. Kaffi Kjós: A cozy café in Kjósarhreppur, perfect for grabbing a coffee and light meal while enjoying the stunning fjord views.
3. Borganes: For more dining options, head to the nearby town of Borganes, which offers a variety of restaurants and cafés.
Where to stay?
1. Fossatún Country Hotel: A charming hotel located near a beautiful waterfall, offering comfortable rooms and access to hiking trails.
2. Hvalfjarðarsel Guesthouse: A cozy guesthouse with beautiful fjord views and friendly hosts.
3. Húsafell Center: A bit further from Hvalfjörður, but offers a range of accommodation options, including cottages and a campground.
Off the beaten path
For an unusual travel experience in Hvalfjörður, consider visiting the abandoned herring factory in Djúpavík. This remote location can be reached by a gravel road and offers a fascinating glimpse into Iceland's industrial past. The eerie, dilapidated buildings set against the stunning fjord backdrop create a unique atmosphere, perfect for photography enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
The Best Things to Do and Visit around Hvalfjörður
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2 - Lundarreykjadalur
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3 - Mountain bike in Reykjavik
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5 - þórufoss
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6 - Borgarfjörður
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7 - Sun Voyager
25 km away
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8 - Imagine Peace Tower
26 km away
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9 - Reykjavík
26 km away
Reykjavík is the capital and largest city of Iceland. It is located in southwestern Iceland, on the southern shore of Faxaflói bay. Its latitude is 64°08' N, making it the world's northernmost capital of a sovereign state.
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10 - Hallgrimskirkja
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11 - Öxarárfoss
29 km away
Öxarárfoss is a waterfall in Þingvellir National Park, Iceland. It flows from the river Öxará over the Almannagjá. The pool at the base of the waterfall is filled with rocks and is often extremely icy during winter.
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12 - Laugavegur
29 km away
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13 - Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre
29 km away
Harpa is a concert hall and conference centre in Reykjavík, Iceland. The opening concert was held on May 4, 2011. The building features a distinctive colored glass facade inspired by the basalt landscape of Iceland.
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14 - Fríkirkjan í Reykjavík
30 km away
The Fríkirkjan í Reykjavík is a church which is apart from the State Church. It is an independent Lutheran Free Church of Iceland. It lies in the centre of the Icelandic capital, by the lake Tjörnin. The Fríkirkjan í Reykjavík congregation was established in Reykjavík in the autumn of 1899. It had an initial membership of 600 which soon rose.
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15 - Grótta
30 km away
Grótta is a tied island at the extreme end of Seltjarnarnes in the Capital Region of Iceland. During high tide the tombolo is completely submerged, turning Grótta into an island.
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16 - National Museum of Iceland
30 km away
The National Museum of Iceland was established on 24 February 1863, with Jón Árnason the first curator of the Icelandic collection, previously kept in Danish museums.
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17 - Búðir
31 km away
Búðir is a small hamlet in Búðahraun lava fields in Staðarsveit, which is in the western region of Iceland, on the westernmost tip of the Snaefellsnes peninsula where Hraunhafnará falls to the sea, the original old name of Búðir having been Hraunhöfn.
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18 - Skógar
33 km away
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19 - Hveragerði
43 km away
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20 - West
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