Iceland review - 2016, Page 91

ICELAND REVIEW 89
Nestled beside the picturesque Skjálfan-
di bay, Húsavík is the premier destination
for visitors interested in some of the best
whale watching opportunities in the coun-
try. Home to fewer than 3,000 full-time res-
idents, the town grows considerably with
the influx of travelers, many of whom seek
to catch a glimpse of the island’s wildlife.
Several species of whale, the most com-
mon being minke and humpback whales,
as well as fin whales, orcas or blue whales,
can be spotted.
NORTHERN WHALE SAFARI
Salka Whale Watching is a family-run
company with guides who are passionate
about marine mammals and relating sto-
ries of life at sea. Salka’s popular Whales
and Puffins Tour treats guests to an un-
forgettable experience—getting close to
Lundey—Puffin Island in English—to ob-
serve one of the largest puffin colonies in
Iceland, before sailing to the whale watch-
ing areas. Visitors also have the chance to
see black guillemots, fulmars and Arctic
terns in their natural environment. Guests
can enjoy the view on boat Fanney’s out-
side deck and should be sure to bring their
camera.
EXQUISITE FOOD
Once back on land, complete your day
with a delightful meal at Salka Restau-
rant. A staple in Húsavík since 2000, the
restaurant features fresh and local ingredi-
ents on its diverse menu, ranging from ov-
en-baked catfish with lobster risotto and
saffron sauce, to grilled lamb in a red wine
sauce with baked potato and fresh vege-
tables. Casual options such as hamburg-
ers, pizza and soups are available, too.
The cozy restaurant is conveniently situ-
ated close to the harbor and the owners
have recently renovated the outdoor area,
where visitors and locals alike can be seen
sipping cocktails and enjoying tasty food
when the weather is pleasant. Be sure to
also check out the drinks menu, with its
array of beers, wines and cocktails. Not
content on stopping there, Salka also runs
a café, Salka Coffee House, serving light
meals, ice cream, snacks and moreish des-
serts. Naturally, you can rest assured that
Salka’s eateries are whale-friendly, mean-
ing you will only see whales in the sea, not
your plate.
For first class whale watching tours, tasty
food and classic Icelandic hospitality, con-
sider Salka on your next trip to Húsavík.
salkawhalewatching.is
UP CLOSE AND
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ENCOUNTERS
Enjoy the whale watching capital of Iceland with Salka Whale Watching.
SPECIAL PROMOTION THE ARCTIC NORTH