Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Hornstrandir

A Day of Tranquility
Today was a gentle reminder of why Liam and I crave these adventures. It wasn't about conquering a peak or spotting a rare species, but about immersing ourselves in the quiet beauty of Iceland's Westfjords. We traded the rugged trails of Hornstrandir for a slower pace, a chance to soak in a remote pool, and savor the flavors of local life. It was a day of simple pleasures, a balm for the soul before we head back into the wilderness tomorrow.

Our day began in Ísafjörður, where we savored a delightful breakfast at Logn, restaurant & bar. The Scandinavian-inspired dishes were the perfect start to a day of exploration. I opted for a hearty portion of the Skyr with fresh berries, while Liam enjoyed the smoked salmon. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff made us feel right at home. I made sure to charge my camera and phone, remembering the portable charger I'd forgotten back in Banff. We reminisced about our time in Kongsvinger, my hometown, and how it shaped my love for nature.

After breakfast, we set off towards Krossneslaug, a geothermal pool tucked away in the Strandir region. The drive itself was an adventure, winding along gravel roads that hugged the coastline. The views were simply breathtaking – dramatic fjords, cascading waterfalls, and rugged mountains. I couldn't resist stopping every few minutes to capture the scenery with my camera, much to Liam's amusement. He knows how I get when I'm behind the lens!

Reaching Krossneslaug felt like discovering a hidden sanctuary. The pool is perched right on the edge of the ocean, offering panoramic views of the Arctic. The water was wonderfully warm, a welcome contrast to the cool Icelandic air. As I sank into the soothing depths, I felt all the tension melt away. Liam and I spent hours soaking, chatting, and simply enjoying the serenity of the surroundings. It was so peaceful, with only the sound of the waves and the occasional seabird breaking the silence. I felt a deep connection to the landscape, a sense of belonging that I always find when I'm surrounded by nature.


Discover the soothing geothermal waters of Krossneslaug, a thermal bath in Árnes, Iceland, surrounded by stunning coastal landscapes.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found not in grand expeditions, but in the quiet moments of connection with nature and each other.

Leaving Krossneslaug, we felt refreshed and invigorated. Our stomachs, however, were beginning to rumble. We decided to drive to Bolungarvík for lunch. We stopped at Víkurskálin Bolungarvík. The menu was simple but satisfying, offering classic Icelandic fare. I opted for the fish soup, while Liam went for the lamb stew. Both were hearty and flavorful, perfect for warming us up after our swim. It was a great opportunity to experience the local culture and to chat with some of the friendly locals.

In the late afternoon, we returned to Ísafjörður and took a leisurely stroll around town. The colorful houses, the charming harbor, and the dramatic mountains create a unique atmosphere. It's easy to see why so many artists and writers are drawn to this place. We popped into a few shops, admiring the local crafts and artwork. I even picked up a small, hand-knitted lopapeysa for my mom, a reminder of our Icelandic adventure. I know she'll love it. It reminds me a bit of the traditional Norwegian patterns I like to knit myself.

For dinner, we chose Cafe Restaurant Dunhagi, drawn in by the promise of traditional Icelandic cuisine. It was a fantastic choice! The atmosphere was cozy and welcoming, and the food was simply outstanding. I savored every bite of the fresh fish, prepared with local herbs and spices. Liam raved about the lamb, cooked to perfection. The owner, Dagný, was incredibly friendly and made us feel like part of the family. We even got a complimentary dessert because of our recent wedding, a thoughtful gesture that made the evening even more special.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we decided to check out Edinborg Bistro, a local bar known for its lively atmosphere. We enjoyed a couple of drinks, chatting with fellow travelers and locals alike. It was a great way to end the day, soaking in the vibrant energy of Ísafjörður. I enjoyed a local beer, while Liam, ever the brewery manager, sampled a few different brews and chatted with the bartender about the local brewing scene.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm filled with gratitude for the chance to experience the beauty and serenity of the Westfjords. It was a day of simple pleasures, a reminder that sometimes the best experiences are found in the unexpected moments. Tomorrow, we'll head back into Hornstrandir, ready to explore more of its untamed wilderness. Our plan is to have breakfast at Húsið before heading to Hornstrandir, and hopefully, find some unique souvenirs at The Fjord Hub. I'm already looking forward to the next chapter of our Icelandic adventure.

Tonight, I'm falling asleep to the sound of the wind and the distant call of seabirds. Iceland, you continue to captivate me with your raw beauty and your gentle spirit. I feel incredibly lucky to be here, sharing these moments with Liam. Even though I forgot my portable charger, I'm glad I have the memories to keep me going. And maybe I'll even find a way to charge my phone tomorrow!