Washitsu.Casa Guide:

Cafés

An Astounding Abundance right next door

You might naturally assume that remote fishing settlements at the edge of the Arctic would have nothing more than a lonely, self-serve coffee machine tucked away in the corner of a gas station. The reality, however, is beautifully surprising. Our immediate neighboring village of Hellissandur—just a very short drive or an stroll down the paved path from Washitsu.Casa in Rif—boasts an absolutely mind-boggling concentration of world-class, charming cafés!

Hellissandur's Hidden Gems

As you explore the street art and murals scattered through the village, be sure to step inside these spectacular historic spots for some cozy, authentic Icelandic hospitality:

● Gilbakki Kaffihús: Undeniably the local standout. Situated inside one of the oldest, beautifully restored timber houses, you can sit by antique lace curtains framing the windows to enjoy incredible homemade cakes and their legendary fish soup. (Open only during the high summer months).

● The Maritime Museum Café: Perfectly pairing history with a relaxing afternoon break, this café is located right inside the museum (Sjóminjasafnið), offering excellent baked goods, warm drinks, and sweeping coastal views.

● Café Elja at the National Park Visitor Center: A fantastic, modern hub right down the road where you can grab a quick, cozy break and take your time to explore the fascinating educational and ecological exhibits right there inside the center.

Vibrant Culture in Grundarfjörður

If you are venturing further out, driving the Grand Tour toward the Kirkjufell mountain, Grundarfjörður offers a wonderfully unique cultural café:

● Kaffi Valería: This is an unexpected treasure for specialty coffee lovers. Run by an Icelandic-Colombian duo, it is an authentic artisanal coffee roastery! They import directly from Colombia and roast the beans right on-site.

Harbor Views & Bakeries in Stykkishólmur

Further along the northern coast in the beautiful town of Stykkishólmur, be sure to stop by:

● Sjávarborg Café: Perched perfectly over the active harbor, this spot boasts an incredibly cozy, atmospheric aesthetic and phenomenal panoramic views over the water.

● Nesbrauð: The ultimate local bakery. It is the absolute best spot to stock up on completely fresh, artisanal sourdough bread and spectacular sweet Icelandic pastries for your hiking day-trip.

The Energy of the Arctic: Savor the Cake, Skip the Caffeine

These local cafés are absolute must-visit destinations, largely because of their brilliant atmospheres and magnificent baked goods. However, just as we strongly recommend skipping wine at dinner to truly taste your food, we highly encourage you to experience these cafés completely without the crutches of caffeine!

Caffeine is like a push-button gratification. You have traveled to one of the most powerful, elemental landscapes on earth. The crisp, unpolluted Arctic wind, the magnetic pull of the glacier, and the boundless, glowing energy of the Midnight Sun or the Northern Lights provide more than enough natural, life-affirming stimulation. Why not let gratification come from life itself and really enjoy life to its absolute fullest? Your awakened senses will give you far greater rewards for everything else in life.

Step out of the cold wind, take a seat by the window of a local café, and simply enjoy a soothing cup of hot water or milk, or a mild herbal infusion paired with a spectacular slice of traditional Icelandic cake.