Offering fantastic views back towards Husavik Mountain and across the bay to Flateyjarskagi Peninsula, the lakes of Kaldbakstjarnir are a wonderful place to take a walk at any time of year. A peaceful location to have a picnic, in the autumn the surrounding heath-land here is covered in berries, ripe and ready for your dessert.
An easily accessible area of natural beauty within walking distance of Húsavík and a popular option for those interested in bird-watching, there is usually a range of species to be seen, with regulars including the Horned Grebe and the Red Breasted Merganser. An observation hut at the southern end provides shelter.
Opposite the entrance you will also find a smaller body of water with some peculiar characteristics. Firstly, as you may discern from the rising mist, this is a geothermal pond (in which some people choose to bathe) but secondly, it is also home to one of the world’s most northerly Goldfish populations. Unwanted pets released by locals, this is a particularly bizarre sight to see in the winter, with heavy snow all around.
Useful Links
View bird sightings at Lake Kaldbakstjarnir
Birding Iceland
Birding Iceland Facebook page
Icelandic Identification Site
Getting There
It is possible to walk there from Húsavík. Walk along road 85 heading south, then take the junction to the right to the cottages Kaldbak. Leave the cottages behind you on the left and take a turn to the left at a well visible dusty road. This path will guide you around Kaldbaks ponds.
If you are coming by care take road 85 driving south out of town, pass by the junction to Kaldbaks cottages, drive through the small hollow and take the next turn to the right. There is a parking lot a bit further in.