Diverse & Powerful

North Iceland

North Iceland is a land of contrasts, with snow-capped mountains, volcanic craters, and roaring waterfalls. Akureyri, the region’s vibrant city, serves as a gateway to highlights like Dettifoss—the most powerful waterfall in Europe—otherworldly lava fields at Lake Mývatn, and the dramatic peaks of the Troll Peninsula. The region is also famous for whale watching, geothermal baths, and rich Norse mythology.

Why We Love North Iceland

North Iceland is the kind of place we love because it feels like a secret you get to share. Here, whale tails break the surface in Húsavík, puffins nest on storybook cliffs, and tiny fishing villages welcome you like an old friend. It’s perfect for explorers who crave quiet, big skies, and wild encounters, with cozy spas and local flavor to turn every day into a memory-making mix of adventure and ease.

Whale tail

Whale Watching

North Iceland is renowned as the whale-watching capital of the country, thanks to its abundant marine life, excellent viewing conditions, and sheltered bays like Skjálfandi and the expansive Eyjafjörður—the longest fjord in Iceland.

Tours from towns like Akureyri, Húsavík, and Dalvík regularly boast near-perfect success rates for sightings, with chances to see humpback, minke, dolphin, porpoise, and even the majestic blue whale. Watching these giants breach against a backdrop of dramatic fjords and mountains is an unforgettable experience for wildlife lovers and families.

Coastal village with colorful houses in green fields, leading to a blue sea under a clear sky. A winding path adds charm and tranquility.

Troll Peninsula

The Troll Peninsula (Tröllaskagi) is famed for its rugged mountains, deep green valleys, and windswept coastal roads, offering some of Iceland’s most scenic drives and outdoor adventures.

Beyond its folklore—rumored to be home to mythical trolls—the area is a paradise for hikers, skiers, and horseback riding enthusiasts. Picturesque towns like Siglufjörður invite you to experience Icelandic hospitality, historic sites like the Herring Era Museum, and vibrant local culture. Warm geothermal pools and the chance to spot roaming Icelandic horses add to the peninsula’s unique allure.

a boat traveling through a large body of water

Scenic Fjordlands

North Iceland’s fjordlands are home to some of the country’s most breathtaking vistas, with dramatic U-shaped valleys carved by ancient glaciers and dotted with lively fishing villages and islands. Dominated by Eyjafjörður and Skagafjörður, these fjords offer sweeping views, rich wildlife including whales, seals, and seabirds, and access to idyllic spots like the island of Hrísey.

Exploring the fjordlands means discovering waterfalls, lush meadows, remote farmsteads, and the wild beauty that defines Iceland’s north, making it perfect for photography, nature walks, and scenic boat tours.

Rugged terrain with steep cliffs

Our Favorite Things To Do

  • Go whale watching from Húsavík: Head out from Iceland’s whale-watching capital to spot humpbacks, minkes, and sometimes even blue whales.
  • Relax in the Beer Spa: Soak in warm beer-infused baths with fjord views, then sample local brews.
  • Go birdwatching on Drangey Island: Take a boat trip to this steep, story-filled island to see puffins and seabirds nesting on dramatic cliffs.
  • Explore small fishing villages: Wander through colorful harbors, meet locals, and enjoy ultra-fresh seafood.

Our Favorite Places To Stay

A serene bedroom with slanted white-paneled ceiling, blue-gray walls, and wood floor. Features a cozy bed, desk, chair, and a window with pillows.

Siglo Hotel

Nestled on the edge of the marina in historic Siglufjörður, Siglo Hotel invites guests to unwind amid the stunning landscapes of North Iceland. The hotel features spacious rooms with classic Scandinavian décor, all boasting large window seats with breathtaking views of the fjord, harbor, or mountain range.

Modern comforts include en-suite bathrooms with walk-in showers, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can soak in the outdoor hot tub overlooking the water, enjoy local cuisine at the waterfront Sunna Restaurant, and explore the vibrant village and nearby hiking trails. All this in a cozy, relaxing atmosphere perfect for romantic getaways or outdoor adventures.

Scandinavian living room with elegant decor, featuring a large window with breathtaking mountain views, an airy atmosphere, and modern furniture.

Deplar Farm

Located deep within North Iceland’s secluded Troll Peninsula, Deplar Farm is a luxury retreat set in a renovated sheep farm. It offers 13 individually designed rooms and suites with sweeping views of lakes, rivers, or dramatic mountains, featuring minimalist Nordic style and deluxe en-suite bathrooms.

Every stay includes gourmet meals and seasonally rotating adventure activities from heli-skiing, hiking, and horseback riding to whale watching, planned by attentive staff. The extensive spa features indoor/outdoor geothermal pools, flotation tanks, sauna, and yoga studio, making Deplar Farm a rare blend of adventure and relaxation surrounded by wild Icelandic nature.

White hotel on a corner under a blue sky, with a terrace cafe outside. Behind it, steps lead up a hill to a modern church, surrounded by greenery.

Hotel Kea Akureyri

A landmark in Akureyri’s vibrant center, Hotel Kea is the city’s only 4-star hotel, steps from shops, culture, restaurants, and the scenic fjord. Guests choose from 104 modern rooms and suites, all with elegant décor, en-suite bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, Nespresso machines, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

The on-site Múlaberg Bistro & Bar serves Icelandic and international cuisine in a lively, welcoming setting. Additional facilities include meeting rooms, a 24-hour desk, and discounted access to a nearby spa and gym, making Hotel Kea ideal for stays in Iceland’s “Capital of the North”.