Hvalfjörður, Fjord in Western Region, Iceland
Hvalfjörður is a fjord in western Iceland that extends roughly 30 kilometers inland from Faxaflói bay. Steep mountain walls rise directly from the water along both shores, creating a dramatic landscape.
The fjord served as a naval base for British and American forces during World War II, with military installations built at key locations. These bases helped secure Atlantic supply routes during the conflict.
The fjord takes its name from the whaling tradition that shaped life here for centuries. Visitors can still see remnants of old whaling stations along the shores, which speak to how deeply this industry marked the region.
The Hvalfjarðargöng tunnel, opened in 1998, provides a quick alternative to driving around the fjord. Travelers between Reykjavík and Borgarnes can save considerable time using this route.
The area holds a trail to Glymur, a waterfall dropping about 198 meters, which takes hikers through caves and across rivers using wooden log bridges. This hike offers an adventure that few visitors attempt compared to other Icelandic trails.
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