Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Hornstrandir

Westfjords Wonders: A Day of Exploration

Today was a day of embracing the raw beauty and unique flavors of Iceland's Westfjords. From the imposing presence of Drangajökull glacier to the charming town of Ísafjörður, every moment felt like stepping deeper into the heart of this captivating region. Liam and I set out with a sense of adventure, ready to immerse ourselves in the landscapes and experiences that make this corner of the world so special.


Explore Drangajökull Glacier, the northernmost glacier in Iceland, where stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures await amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

Our morning began in Ísafjörður, a town nestled amidst towering mountains and serene waters. We decided to start our day with a hearty breakfast at Edinborg Bistro. The bistro had a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, perfect for fueling up before a day of exploring. I ordered the traditional Icelandic breakfast, while Liam opted for something a bit more familiar. Over coffee, we discussed our plans for the day, excitement building with each passing moment.

Our first major stop was Drangajökull, Iceland's northernmost glacier. As we drove towards it, the landscape transformed into a rugged, almost lunar terrain. The glacier itself was a sight to behold, a vast expanse of ice and snow clinging to the mountaintops. The weather in June in Hornstrandir is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from 43-52°F (6-11°C), but that day, the winds were strong and the air had a bite to it. Even though Drangajökull is known for being a bit tricky to reach, we were determined to see it. I wanted to capture its stark beauty through my lens. The glacier is unique as it is the only glacier in Iceland that hasn't been shrinking much due to global warming, so it's relatively stable in size.

The beauty of Iceland lies not just in its landscapes, but in the resilience and spirit of its people and nature.

After spending a good amount of time photographing Drangajökull, we made our way towards Möngufoss, a stunning waterfall tucked away in the Unadhsdalur valley. The drive itself was an adventure, with winding roads offering panoramic views of the fjords and mountains. When we arrived at the parking area for Möngufoss, we embarked on a hike to reach the waterfall. The hike was listed as moderate, around 4km, and took us about an hour. The trail meandered through lush greenery, with the sound of rushing water growing louder with each step. The path was rocky and a bit slippery in places, so we had to tread carefully. But the views were more than worth the effort. Möngufoss cascaded down the rocks, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. The surrounding landscape was equally captivating, with vibrant green vegetation clinging to the cliffs and the sun casting a golden glow over everything.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Möngufoss waterfall in Unadhsdalur, Iceland, where nature's tranquility meets stunning landscapes.

Back in Ísafjörður, we decided to grab lunch at Húsið, a charming restaurant known for its delicious seafood soup. The restaurant had a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. I ordered their famous seafood soup, while Liam went for a hearty lamb dish. The seafood soup was a revelation, a rich and flavorful broth filled with fresh fish and shellfish. It was the perfect comfort food after our adventurous morning.

As the afternoon progressed, we decided to explore Ísafjörður itself. We wandered through the town's narrow streets, admiring the colorful houses and the bustling harbor. The town had a vibrant, creative energy, with art galleries and craft shops showcasing the work of local artists. We stopped by a few shops, picking up souvenirs and chatting with the friendly locals.

Before dinner, we decided to treat ourselves to some local brews at Dokkan Brugghús. The brewery had a lively, welcoming atmosphere, and the staff were passionate about their craft. We sampled a few of their unique beers, each one brewed with pristine Icelandic water and local ingredients. The Dynjandi IPA was a particular favorite, with its hoppy aroma and refreshing taste. The atmosphere was fun and modern, and we were able to sit outside and enjoy the fresh air. We also tried some of their bar food, which was made with local ingredients and paired perfectly with the beer.


Discover the vibrant flavors of Iceland at Dokkan Brugghús, where craft beer meets exquisite local cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

For dinner, we chose Restaurant Galdur, a seafood restaurant in Hólmavík, known for its fresh, high-quality ingredients. The drive to Hólmavík was scenic, taking us along the coast and through charming fishing villages. Restaurant Galdur itself was a cozy, intimate space, with a menu focused on locally sourced seafood. I ordered the catch of the day, while Liam opted for their signature mussels. The seafood was incredibly fresh and flavorful, prepared with a delicate touch that highlighted its natural sweetness. It was the perfect way to end our day of culinary exploration.


Experience fresh Icelandic seafood at Restaurant Galdur in Hólmavík - where taste meets tradition amidst breathtaking scenery.

As we drove back to Ísafjörður, the sun began to set, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink. The landscape was bathed in a soft, ethereal light, creating a magical atmosphere. I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and wonder of the Westfjords. This trip is about more than just ticking off destinations on a list; it's about connecting with nature, immersing ourselves in local culture, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Kvíar Lodge and Stórurðarlundur, continuing our exploration of this remarkable region. The anticipation of what lies ahead is a sweet feeling, and I can't wait to share those experiences with you all. We will also be stopping at Café Riis Hólmavík - Restaurant - Pizzeria & Bar for breakfast, Faktorshus in Haestikaupstadur for lunch, and Einarshusid for dinner. A stop at Klæðakot is also planned for a bit of shopping.

Until then, takk fyrir and góða nótt!