Fosshotel Husavik

Fosshotel Husavik is one of the main hotels in Húsavík, the whale watching capital of Iceland. It stands in the town close to the harbour, where the whale boats depart, and within a short walk of the whale museum, the wooden church and the town's cafes and restaurants. For travellers who want to join a morning or evening whale trip without a long drive, sleeping in Húsavík is the easiest answer, and this hotel is a reliable option. The Fosshotel brand is a respected Icelandic chain, and the hotel offers the usual facilities of a mid-range property: comfortable rooms, a restaurant and bar, and staff used to dealing with international guests. Expect clean, practical rooms, some with views toward the bay, and a lobby that serves as a useful base for planning excursions. Some seasons, the hotel is busy with tour groups, so booking early is wise.

A stay in Húsavík changes how you can plan the north. Instead of rushing back to Akureyri after a whale trip, you can linger over a harbour-side lunch, visit the museum, soak in the geothermal sea baths above the harbour and enjoy the evening light. In summer, the midnight sun makes late departures magical, and in winter the town is quiet, with a chance of seeing the northern lights from the shore.

Húsavík is also a good base for the eastern parts of the Diamond Circle, since Ásbyrgi, Dettifoss and Mývatn are closer from here than from Akureyri.

Food is a pleasure. Fresh fish is the speciality, and the town has several places to try it, from simple fish and chips to restaurants serving the day's catch. The hotel restaurant offers a convenient option after a long day outdoors, and breakfast is an important start before a morning boat trip. If you plan to eat out, book ahead in summer, since the town is small and tables fill quickly.

Practical matters are easy. Parking is available, but check arrangements and any charges. The hotel is suitable for couples, families and groups, and rooms vary in size and view. Light sleepers should request a quiet room, especially in summer when the town is lively and daylight lasts late into the night. Black-out curtains are helpful at that season, so check that your room has them. Whale watching operators can arrange pickups from town hotels, and the harbour is a short walk.

Compare Húsavík with staying in Akureyri. Akureyri offers a bigger choice of restaurants and sights, and Húsavík offers a more intimate, wildlife-focused stay. If whales are your priority, sleeping in Húsavík saves driving and lets you choose the best weather window for your trip. If you want a broader programme, base yourself in Akureyri and visit Húsavík on a day trip. Either way, this hotel makes it comfortable to experience the town at your own pace.