Solo Expedition to Iceland's Hornstrandir Nature Reserve

A Day of Westfjords Wonders

Today was a day of embracing the raw, untamed beauty of Iceland's Westfjords. The kind of day where every turn in the road reveals a new vista, more breathtaking than the last. From chasing the elusive Drangajökull útsýnisstaður glacier to savoring the local flavors in the small towns dotting the coastline, it was a day etched in my memory.

I started my day in Bolungarvík, the northernmost settlement in the Westfjords, with a hearty breakfast at Víkurskálin Bolungarvík. The wind was howling outside, a typical Icelandic serenade, but inside, the atmosphere was cozy and the coffee strong. Fuelled up, I set off towards the Drangajökull útsýnisstaður, eager to catch a glimpse of Iceland's northernmost glacier.


Discover breathtaking views at Drangajökull Observation Deck, a serene escape in Iceland's stunning Westfjords, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

The drive itself was an adventure. Route 635, the road to the viewpoint, snaked its way through valleys and along the coast, offering panoramic views of the fjords. The landscape was a tapestry of greens and browns, dotted with sheep grazing peacefully. Every now and then, the road would narrow, clinging precariously to the hillside, adding a thrill to the journey. I had to keep reminding myself to focus on the road, as the scenery was incredibly distracting.

Reaching the Drangajökull útsýnisstaður was a moment of pure awe. Although the glacier was distant, its icy presence dominated the horizon. The viewpoint provided an uninterrupted vista of the glacier, a shimmering white expanse against the backdrop of the mountains. I spent a good hour there, simply soaking in the view and capturing the scene with my camera. The wind was relentless, but the view was worth every shiver.

The beauty of Iceland lies not just in its grand landscapes, but also in the quiet moments of connection with nature.

After the glacial views, it was time to explore more of what the Westfjords had to offer. I drove towards Hólmavík, a charming town known for its Museum of Icelandic Sorcery & Witchcraft. However, today, I was more interested in the culinary offerings of the region. I stopped for lunch at Stúkuhúsið, a local favorite in Hólmavík. The restaurant was small and unassuming, but the food was anything but. I opted for the fish soup, a creamy and flavorful concoction that warmed me from the inside out. It was the perfect fuel for the afternoon's adventures.


Discover the rich flavors of traditional Icelandic cuisine at Stúkuhúsið in Patreksfjörður - where every dish tells a story.

Continuing my journey, I decided to explore the Strandir coastline, known for its dramatic landscapes and remote villages. The road hugged the coastline, offering stunning views of the sea and the rugged cliffs. I passed through several small villages, each with its own unique charm. The houses were painted in vibrant colors, a stark contrast to the muted tones of the landscape.

One of the highlights of the afternoon was a stop at the Verbudin bar. It was a cozy spot, filled with locals sharing stories and laughter. I ordered a local beer and chatted with the bartender, who shared some interesting insights about the region and its history. It was a great way to immerse myself in the local culture and learn more about the Westfjords.


Discover the warmth of Icelandic hospitality at Verbudin, Bolungarvik's cozy bar, offering a delightful selection of local and international beverages.

As the day drew to a close, I made my way to Tálknafjörður, where I had dinner reservations at Hópið. This restaurant is known for its authentic Icelandic cuisine and warm hospitality. The drive to Tálknafjörður was scenic, passing through valleys and along the coast. The setting sun cast a golden glow over the landscape, creating a magical atmosphere.


Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Hópið in Tálknafjörður, where fresh ingredients meet warm hospitality.

Hópið did not disappoint. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, and the staff was incredibly friendly. I ordered the lamb dish, a local specialty, and it was absolutely delicious. The lamb was tender and flavorful, and the accompanying vegetables were fresh and perfectly cooked. It was the perfect end to a day of exploring the Westfjords.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, I'm excited to explore more of the Westfjords. My itinerary includes a visit to Krossneslaug, a remote thermal pool, and a stop at Þristur, a local shop. I'm also planning to try Jötunn restaurant for breakfast, Tjöruhúsið for lunch, and Logn, restaurant & bar for dinner in Ísafjörður. Each day here seems to promise new adventures and discoveries.

As I settle into my campsite for the night, under the vast Icelandic sky, I can't help but feel grateful for this incredible journey. The Westfjords have a way of capturing your heart, with their raw beauty and the warmth of their people. It's a place where nature reigns supreme, and where every moment is an adventure. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings, as I continue my solo expedition through this untouched corner of Iceland. Tonight, I’m especially glad I packed my warmest layers. Even in May, the nights can be surprisingly chilly!

I also made a mental note to grab some insect repellent when I get a chance. I seem to be more attractive to the local bugs than I thought!

Tomorrow, I’m hoping to catch some shots of local wildlife near Krossneslaug. Maybe I’ll get lucky and spot an Arctic fox! After that, I’m planning to pick up a traditional Icelandic sweater at Þristur as a souvenir for Liam. He’ll love that.

And of course, I’ll be sure to try some local delicacies at Jötunn restaurant, Tjöruhúsið, and Logn, restaurant & bar. I’ve heard amazing things about their seafood dishes, and I can’t wait to taste them for myself.