The Vatnsnes peninsula gives you the best view of Hunafloi Bay’s seal population. Vatnsnes is a peninsula jutting into Hunafloi in North Iceland. It is surrounded by waters of Midfjordur on the west and Hunafjordur on the east.
The peninsula is home to one of the largest seal colonies in Iceland, among others at Hindisvik and Osar. Seals have been protected for many years in Hindisvik. In the Icelandic Seal Center guest learn about the seals in Iceland.
This area is very peaceful and sometimes dozens of seals can be spotted here. You can also spot seals at Illugastaðdr, halfway along the western coast of Vatnsnes, at Hindisvik, near the tip of the peninsula, and Osar, on the eastern coast. The seals tend to be quite friendly. Some even follow people at a distance, but please do not disturb or feed them.
It also features the remarkably shaped Hvítserkur crag (15 m), which stands right on the shore like a giant cross between a buffalo and a Moomintroll having a drink. Hvitserkur means White Cowl. The crag probably gets the name from the white color of the bird droppings that cover it.
Birding in Vatnsnes peninsula
Many species of birds make Vatnsnes peninsula their home. This makes the peninsula a perfect and popular spot for birding. Note that some areas of Vatnsnes are closed during the nesting season, from late April to late June. The birds need peace to raise their chicks, so please respect these restrictions.
Check out our complete guide to travelling in North Iceland.
