The hot tubs of Hauganes demonstrate why Iceland’s best resource is hot water. And although I am a big fan of fancy spas, I am an even bigger fan of old-school hot tubs. Add delicious food into the mix, and I am sold. That is why I love the hot tubs of Hauganes in Eyjafjörður, close to my beloved hometown of Akureyri and the lovely town of Dalvík.
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Honor system
This beautiful hamlet has hot tubs right on the black beach, so when you feel a little dizzy from soaking in the geothermal water, you can revive yourself by cooling down in the sea. But be warned, the North Atlantic is cold! The facilities on the beach are basic but adequate. You pay to get to the hot tubs, but the payment is via the honor system; just put the money in the box or pay at the nearby Baccalá bar and restaurant. Showers are available but as I say, the facilities are basic.
Watch sea birds right from the hot tubs of Hauganes
The tubs are all great, but I have to say, I especially loved the boat-shaped hot tub. It is so nice to lean on the prow and enjoy the view. If the impressive mountains and rolling tides of Eyjafjörður fjord are not enough, you can watch birds dive for fish, or look for food right on the beach right in front of you.
Hauganes is great for salted fish
After you have done soaking in hot tubs at Hauganes, I highly recommend that you have a meal at the Baccalá bar and restaurant. Baccalá means salted cod, and that is indeed the restaurant’s specialty. Baccalá is still exported to Southern Europe from Iceland, but it has been an export good from Iceland for hundreds of years. The salted fish at the restaurant is just delicious. Enjoy it with the local Kaldi beer.
Hauganes whale watching
There are whale-watching trips from Hauganes. I have not tried whale watching in Hauganes, but these tours are acclaimed. At least I can tell you that the view from the boat will be beautiful.
Staying at Hauganes
There is a camping ground and a hotel at Hauganes if you want to stay in this beautiful place.
How to get to Hauganes
To get to Hauganes, drive from Akureyri on road 82 towards Dalvík. Turn right on road 809.
