We needed a break. Too many hectic drives and long days. So today we slept in a little. Made our way to Husavik by way of a detour of Lake Myvatn. 

On the way to the Lake we stopped at Europe’s most powerful waterfall, Godafoss. The amount of water moving across the ridge was shocking and the noise was deafening. Too many tourists for our taste – we’ve grown accustomed to seclusion – but we grudgingly shared. 

Being honest, there were never more than about a dozen people at the falls. But it seemed crowded. After leaving the Westfjords, which are basically void of people (Isafjordur is the largest town with 3,600 residents) the Ring Road destinations seem too busy. Lots of Americans today, most in jeans and designer sneakers.  Just didn’t feel like we fit anymore. 

On the way to Lake Myvatn we noticed a lot of bugs in the air and we aren’t sure if Avis will ever get them off the Pajero. So we decided to skip the outdoor activities and have an actual sit down meal. Tim had cauliflower soup and a salad (cute) while I enjoyed lamb stew and a basket of Icelandic bread (slightly more manly).  The bread brought me back in time to old New England brown bread from B&M. My Maine friends will know what I mean. I ate as much as I could and washed it down with Icelandic beer. 

A relaxed 50 minute drive to Husavik had us checking into the Fosshotel at 4pm. Shockingly early based on our past performance, but a welcome change. 

We walked down to the waterfront and found our whale watch company for the morning, and then introduced ourself to a local pub and more Viking Blonde Ale. 

Definitely our kind of country when beer is served in half liters. We know it’s the same as a pint, but it sounds better. 

After a couple drinks, and the pub closing at 6pm, we went to a nearby restaurant and ordered dinner.  I know, two meals in one day, both at restaurants, we’re getting soft.  It had to be done. Tim had pan fried salt cod while I ate pesto haddock and both came with a hearty barley risotto. They know how to eat here. A couple more Vikings each, a quick dessert, and a walk back to the hotel. 

We needed the slower pace and Husavik is a great place for it. A sheltered northern port and fishing town, the pace is slow and the people very approachable. We were happy to blend for a few hours. 

Tomorrow morning we head out on a whale watch on an old oak boat. We will be dressed for the weather and hope to have some great stories when we get back.