Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
8
Get twitchy at the viewing platform over the bird-filled cliffs of
Langanes
EASTERN HÚNAFLÓI
Sparsely populated and scattered with only a handful of tiny settlements, the bay of Hún-
aflói is rich in wildlife. It's known as Bear Bay, named after the many polar bears that have
drifted on sea ice from Greenland and come ashore here. The scenery of the area is far
gentler than that of the Westfjords, and the low, treeless hills provide nesting sites for rich
birdlife. Add some neatly manicured towns, some seals, horse-riding opportunities and a
cluster of museums, and there's plenty to keep you occupied en route to Akureyri.
Pick up the
Húnaþing vestra
booklet (online at
www.visithunathing.is
), with detailed
info about Hvammstangi and surrounds. Pick up the
Discover Rural Iceland
(
www.farmholidays.is
)
guide too - there are heaps of homey farmstays in this neck of the
woods. The website
www.northwest.is
is also excellent for planning.
Hrútafjörður
The inlet of little Hrútafjörður marks the divide between northwest Iceland and the Westf-
jords.
As you follow Route 1 (the Ring Road), you'll encounter
Staðarskáli
(once known as
Brú). No more than a road junction with a big, busy N1 petrol station and cafeteria,
Staðarskáli acts as a popular leg-stretching spot for motorists.
At Reykir, barely a cluster of houses 13km north of Staðarskáli,
Sæberg HI Hostel
(
894 5504;
www.hostel.is
;
dm/d without bathroom Ikr3700/9200; Mar-Oct; )
is a peaceful
little place with hot-pots, cottages and sprawling views. Campers are welcome; bring sup-
plies, as the nearest shop is 15km away.
Hvammstangi
Pop 560
