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Hvalfjörður – Akranes
About 25 kilometres north of Reykjavik a fjord cuts about 20 kilometres into the coastal mountains. The surrounding mountain ranges reach altitudes of 1,000 m and together with the narrow Hvalfjörður form a spectacular landscape.
Aside from the stunning vistas, the fjord has provided a safe harbour for whalers since ages. During World War II allied convoys stopped here for fuel and food supplies on their dangerous way across the North Atlantic and a large Navy base had been set up. Nowadays from these once extensive naval infrastructures only the rusty remnants of a long steel pier and some ruined buildings are left.
The northbound expressway from Reykjavik shortcuts the fjord with a tunnel and saves the urgent traveller a good hour of driving along the windy road running along the shores of the fjord. This detour is nevertheless worth the sometimes-bumpy drive as it offers great views on the way and gets very close to the Stóribotn nature reserve which includes the Glymur, with 198 meters Iceland’s highest waterfall at the very end of the fjord (detailed info to be found here).
The Akranes peninsula at the northern ocean entrance to the fjord can also be shortcut by the expressway. A detour to the likewise named fishing town Akranes is only worth if you want to stay at the campground at the northern town entrance or if you hope for some surf-able waves (no guaranties) at the more exposed shores at the tip of the peninsula.
Check this gallery for more impressions.
Related stories:
Iceland blog, episode 10 - Southwest
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