Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Hornstrandir

Finding Peace in Hornstrandir's Embrace

Today was a day of gentle exploration, a welcome change of pace after our initial adventurous treks. It was a day to soak in the quiet beauty of Hornstrandir, to appreciate the small moments, and to connect with the local culture through its food and crafts. Liam and I both felt a sense of calm wash over us as we embraced the day's itinerary, knowing that tomorrow holds another exciting hike.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Café Riis Hólmavík. The café was a charming spot, filled with locals and fellow travelers, all eager to start their day. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong coffee filled the air, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. I opted for the seafood soup, which was brimming with fish, shrimp, and mussels. Liam, ever the pizza aficionado, couldn't resist trying their breakfast pizza. The owners were incredibly welcoming, making us feel right at home. It was the perfect start to a day dedicated to tranquility and local experiences. The weather was mostly sunny, with a gentle breeze – ideal for exploring.

After breakfast, we made our way to Kvíar Lodge. The lodge is nestled in the heart of Hornstrandir, offering stunning views of Jökulfirðir Bay. Kvíar itself has a rich history, dating back to the 14th century, but the last inhabitants left in 1948. The lodge has been renovated [and from what I could gather online, it appears to have been] transformed into a cozy haven for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the wilderness. Though we weren't staying overnight, we spent a few hours exploring the area around the lodge. The valley of Kvíar is teeming with life in the summer, and we were fortunate enough to spot several Arctic foxes roaming freely. I managed to capture a few photographs, though they were too quick for me to get the perfect shot. Perhaps I'll have more luck tomorrow!


Experience the tranquility of Kviar Lodge in Iceland, where stunning nature meets comfort for an unforgettable escape.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found not in conquering mountains, but in savoring the simple moments of peace and connection.

Next on our itinerary was Stórurðarlundur, a serene park in Ísafjörður. The drive there was breathtaking, with winding roads offering panoramic views of the fjords and mountains. Stórurðarlundur is a haven of lush green landscapes, sprawling fields, and a tranquil atmosphere. We strolled along the well-maintained paths, taking in the stunning scenery. The park provided a perfect opportunity to unwind and reflect on our journey so far. I couldn't help but feel grateful for the chance to experience such raw and untouched beauty.


Discover the tranquility of Stórurðarlundur, a serene park in Ísafjörður, perfect for nature walks and family picnics amidst stunning Icelandic landscapes.

For lunch, we stopped at Faktorshus in Hæstikaupstaður, a restaurant that prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant had a rustic charm, with wooden beams and nautical décor that paid homage to Ísafjörður's maritime heritage. I opted for the seafood stew, a hearty and flavorful dish that warmed me from the inside out. Liam chose the fried fish, which was cooked to perfection. The staff were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the food, sharing stories about the local farmers and fishermen who supplied the ingredients. It was a truly immersive culinary experience.


Savor authentic Icelandic flavors at Faktorshus in Ísafjörður – where local ingredients meet culinary creativity.

In the afternoon, we indulged in a bit of retail therapy at Klæðakot, a charming shop in Ísafjörður known for its baby clothing and yarn. As someone who enjoys knitting traditional Norwegian patterns, I was immediately drawn to the shop's extensive collection of high-quality yarns. The shop also had a delightful selection of baby garments. I ended up purchasing a few skeins of Icelandic wool in earthy tones, envisioning cozy sweaters and scarves for the coming winter. The lady in the shop was incredibly helpful, offering advice on patterns and color combinations. I even picked up a small, delicate silver pendant depicting a Viking rune, a little memento of our trip.


Discover Klæðakot in Ísafjörður: A charming baby clothing, embroidery, and yarn store offering unique local crafts and gifts.

For dinner, we decided to try Einarshusid in Bolungarvík, a restaurant housed in a restored wooden building over a hundred years old. The building itself was steeped in history, with displays about its previous owners and their lives. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with a touch of old-world charm. Einarshusid is known for its pizzas and traditional Icelandic dishes, so we decided to try a bit of both. We ordered a pizza topped with local seafood and a plate of lamb, both of which were absolutely delicious. The restaurant also had a selection of local craft beers, which we sampled while enjoying the live music. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with serenity and local flavors.


Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Einarshusid in Bolungarvik – where tradition meets flavor in a cozy atmosphere.

As I sit here, writing this entry, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. Today was a reminder that travel is not just about ticking off landmarks and conquering challenges, but also about slowing down, appreciating the small moments, and connecting with the local culture. Liam is already fast asleep beside me, dreaming of tomorrow's hike to Drangaskörð. I'm excited for what the new day will bring. I'm also mindful that we need to ensure we have our portable phone charger and extra memory cards for the camera, as we forgot them when packing. I hear that Drangaskörð offers breathtaking views of the surrounding fjords and mountains, and I can't wait to capture its beauty through my lens. I'm sure it will be another unforgettable day in Hornstrandir.

Tomorrow, we plan to have breakfast at Thai Tawee, lunch at Hamraborg ehf, and dinner at Stúkuhúsið. We will also check out Verbudin, a local bar, for a nightcap. I'm eager to see what culinary delights and local experiences await us.

The weather forecast for tomorrow predicts cloudy skies with a chance of rain, so we'll be sure to pack our waterproof jackets and extra layers. Despite the potential for inclement weather, I'm confident that we'll still have a fantastic day exploring the untamed beauty of Hornstrandir.

For now, it's time to rest and recharge for tomorrow's adventures. Goodnight from the enchanting wilderness of Iceland!