Fossholl Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Fossholl with this comprehensive guide, including a list of places to visit, where to eat and stay, and tips for safety and health.


Introduction to Fossholl

Located in North Iceland, Fossholl is a beautiful small village known for its stunning waterfalls, natural hot springs, and rugged scenery. This hidden gem offers a great escape from the hustle and bustle of big city life and provides a perfect backdrop for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through Fossholl, exploring its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and vibrant culinary scene. We’ll give you a list of places to visit, favorite things to do, where to eat and stay, and tips on making the most out of your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Fossholl

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Turf Houses: Fossholl is home to beautiful turf houses that date back to the 19th century. These houses offer an insight into the traditional way of life in Iceland.
  • Glaumbær Museum: Located in the nearby town of Hofsós, this museum focuses on the history and heritage of rural life in Iceland.
  • The Icelandic Emigration Center: This museum is dedicated to the history of Iceland’s emigration and depicts the struggles and achievements of the Icelandic people who left for North America.

Natural Attractions of Fossholl: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Dettifoss Waterfall: One of the most impressive waterfalls in Europe, Dettifoss is located in Vatnajökull National Park and is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers.
  • Asbyrgi Canyon: Known as the “Shelter of the Gods,” this horseshoe-shaped canyon offers a glimpse into Iceland’s geology and is a popular spot for hiking.
  • Mývatn Nature Baths: Located just a short drive from Fossholl, these natural hot springs are surrounded by stunning landscapes and offer a great way to relax after a day of exploring.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Fossholl

  • Húsavík to Ásbyrgi: This 25 km trail takes you through stunning landscapes, including the Ásbyrgi canyon. Expect to see waterfalls, craters, and even the occasional reindeer on this trail.
  • Hverfjall Volcanic Hike: This 3 km trail takes you through a volcanic crater that erupted over 2,500 years ago. It offers excellent views of the surrounding area.
  • Selfoss Waterfall Hike: This short and easy hike takes you to the picturesque Selfoss Waterfall. You can combine it with a visit to Dettifoss for a full day of adventure.

Best Things to Do in Fossholl: Activities and Tours

  • Whale Watching in Húsavík: Húsavík is known as the “Whale Watching Capital of Europe.” Take a tour and witness the spectacle of humpback and minke whales playing in the waters.
  • Horse Riding: Experience Icelandic horseback riding at its finest by exploring the breathtaking scenery of Fossholl on horseback.
  • Northern Lights Hunt: During the winter months, Fossholl offers a great opportunity to see the aurora borealis in action. Take a tour and witness this natural phenomenon first-hand.

Week-Long Itinerary for Fossholl

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive in Reykjavik, and take a domestic flight to Akureyri. Rent a car and drive to Fossholl.
Day 2 Visit Dettifoss waterfall and hike to Selfoss waterfall.
Day 3 Horseback riding day trip to the neighboring countryside.
Day 4 Visit Mývatn Nature Baths for a rejuvenating bath and relaxation.
Day 5 Explore the Ásbyrgi canyon and hike to Hljóðaklettar rock formations.
Day 6 Take a whale watching tour in Húsavík and explore the charming fishing village.
Day 7 Visit the Turf Houses and Glaumbær Museum, followed by a traditional Icelandic dinner.

Food and Drink Scene of Fossholl

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fermented Shark: A traditional Icelandic dish that is an acquired taste, but worth trying for the experience.
  • Lamb Stew: A warm and comforting dish made with tender Icelandic lamb, vegetables, and herbs.
  • Skyr: A thick and creamy yogurt-like dairy product that is served as dessert or a snack.

Local Beverages

  • Brennivín: A traditional Icelandic spirit made from distilled potatoes and flavored with caraway seeds.
  • Vatnajökull Glacier Water: Pure and refreshing, this bottled water is harvested from one of Iceland’s largest glaciers.

Where to Stay in Fossholl: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Fosshotel Mývatn: A luxurious hotel located near the Mývatn Nature Baths that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
  • Ásbyrgi Camping: Located within the Vatnajökull National Park, this is a great option for those who want to experience camping in the great outdoors.
  • Brekkulækur Guesthouse: A cozy and charming guesthouse that offers modern amenities and is located close to many natural attractions.

What to Buy in Fossholl: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Lopapeysa: A traditional Icelandic wool sweater that is warm, stylish, and popular among locals and tourists alike.
  • Handmade Icelandic Chocolate: An indulgent treat made with high-quality ingredients, including locally sourced dairy.
  • Icelandic Wool Yarn: A soft and durable yarn that is perfect for knitting and crocheting.

Local Culture and Customs of Fossholl

Icelanders are proud of their heritage and culture, and they take their customs seriously. Visitors are encouraged to respect local traditions, including:

  • Þetta Reddast: This is the unofficial national motto of Iceland and means “everything will work out in the end.” It reflects the country’s positive outlook and resilient spirit.
  • Respect for Nature: Icelanders have a deep appreciation for the natural beauty of their homeland and place high value on responsible tourism.
  • Punctuality: Icelanders are notoriously punctual, and it’s considered rude to be late for meetings or appointments.

Best Time to Visit Fossholl

The best time to visit Fossholl is from June to September when days are longer, and the weather is milder. The summer months also provide the opportunity to explore the great outdoors and participate in various outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Fossholl

Do:

  • Respect Iceland’s nature and wildlife.
  • Take trash with you when leaving a location.
  • Dress in layers to stay warm and comfortable.

Don’t:

  • Approach wildlife or disturb their habitat.
  • Drive off-road or park illegally.
  • Ignore weather alerts or warnings.

Safety and Health

Safety in Fossholl

Fossholl is a relatively safe area with low crime rates. However, visitors are advised to take basic precautions, including keeping their valuables safe and avoiding deserted areas at night.

Health in Fossholl

There is no risk of malaria or other tropical diseases in Fossholl. Tap water is safe to drink, and medical facilities are available in nearby towns in case of an emergency. It’s also advisable to bring your medication from home as some prescription drugs may not be readily available in Iceland.

Getting to Fossholl: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Fossholl

The nearest airport to Fossholl is Akureyri Airport, located approximately 100 km away from the village. Reykjavik International Airport is also an option, but visitors will need to take a domestic flight from Reykjavik to Akureyri to reach Fossholl.

Bus Stations Near Fossholl

There are several bus companies in Iceland that operate daily services to and from Fossholl. Buses run from Akureyri and connect to other towns and cities across the country.

Other Options

Visitors can also choose to rent a car and drive to Fossholl. The roads are generally well-maintained, and there are several car rental companies located in Akureyri and Reykjavik.

How to Get Around in Fossholl

The best way to get around Fossholl is by car. Visitors can rent a car from Akureyri or Reykjavik and explore the surrounding areas at their leisure. Buses and taxis are also available but are less flexible than renting a car.

Where to Go Next from Fossholl: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Fossholl is located in a great position for exploring nearby destinations in North Iceland. Here are some suggestions for your next adventure:

  • Akureyri: The capital of North Iceland, Akureyri is a charming town known for its colorful houses, botanical gardens, and ski resorts.
  • Skaftafell National Park: Located in South Iceland, this national park offers some of Iceland’s most impressive and dramatic landscapes, including glaciers, waterfalls, and volcanoes.
  • Reykjavik: Iceland’s capital city is a vibrant and cosmopolitan metropolis that offers a great mix of culture, history, and nightlife.

Conclusion

Fossholl is an ideal destination for anyone looking for a peaceful retreat to nature and Icelandic heritage. With its breathtaking natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant food and drink scene, Fossholl is a must-visit destination in Iceland. Plan your trip now, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure.