The secret fossil beach at the edge of Iceland

Tjörnes is a large peninsula in northeastern Iceland, between the Skjálfandaflói Gulf and Öxarfjörður. It’s one of the best-known geological localities in the country and absolutely a gem of a place to visit. It is part of the well-known Diamond Circle in the north east of Iceland.

Peer into the past

There is a very special place in Tjörnes named Hallbjarnarstaðakambur (a real tongue twister!), a small beach where huge layers of fossilized seashells dating over 3 million years old are exposed for all to see. It’s nothing short of a spectacular outdoor museum where you can take a look deep into the past. It’s the perfect place to visit if you’re traveling in northern Iceland and want to experience something unique. The only problem is you must know your way around!

Go whale watching in Húsavík

I recommend that you start by visiting the picturesque town of Húsavík (e. bay of houses). One possible diversion there is to go whale-watching and get close and personal with the giants of the sea, and to soak in the wonderful baths at GeoSea.

Find the wharf

To get from Húsavík to Hallbjarnarstaðarkambur, you must continue on Norðausturvegur, route 85, and head to a place called Tunguvellir (there should be a sign by the road). There, close by, is a short drive down from the main road to the seashore. This detour is marked with a small “fossil” sign, and it’s very easy to miss. You know you’ve found the right place if you see a small wharf and a house down by the shore at the end of a narrow, muddy road.

Respect nature

Once there, feel free to look at the fossils lying all around. Take a short hike up the river and enjoy the scenery. Just remember, the place is an important nature reserve and protected by Icelandic law. Look and take pictures. However, it is strictly forbidden to disturb or remove anything.

Drive carefully on the rough road

I must warn you that the detour from the main road has not been in decent condition in recent years, to put it mildly. Don’t have a powerful vehicle? Unused to driving in rough terrain? Please rethink your plans.