Exploring the Untouched Wilderness of Hornstrandir with Friends

A Day of Icelandic Contrasts

Today was a day of stark contrasts, a true testament to the raw and untamed beauty of Iceland's Westfjords. From the chilling majesty of a distant glacier to the soothing warmth of a geothermal pool, every moment was a sensory experience that left me in awe. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel, to immerse myself in the unexpected and find beauty in the most remote corners of the world.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Hópið. It was the perfect way to fuel up for the adventures that lay ahead. The restaurant was cozy, and the atmosphere was inviting. I enjoyed a traditional Icelandic breakfast, complete with skyr and dark rye bread, while the others opted for more familiar fare. It's always interesting to see how different cultures approach the first meal of the day, and I appreciate the opportunity to try new things. I made sure to write down the name in my travel journal, so I can remember the experience. It’s funny how food can be such a strong memory trigger.


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

After breakfast, we set off towards Drangajökull útsýnisstaður, a viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Drangajökull glacier. The drive itself was an adventure, winding along narrow, gravel roads that hugged the coastline. The landscape was dramatic, with towering mountains on one side and the vast expanse of the ocean on the other. I couldn't help but feel a sense of insignificance in the face of such natural grandeur. It made me reflect on the fleeting nature of our existence and the importance of cherishing every moment. The glacier itself was a sight to behold, a shimmering expanse of ice in the distance. It was a stark reminder of the power of nature and the impact of climate change. I couldn’t help but feel a bit melancholic, knowing that these icy giants are slowly disappearing. Drangajökull is the northernmost glacier in Iceland and the only one entirely below 1,000 meters. Unlike other glaciers in Iceland, Drangajökull hasn't decreased in size in recent years.


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

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

For lunch, we decided to try Thai Tawee. It felt a bit surreal to be eating Thai food in the middle of the Icelandic wilderness, but the aromas wafting from the kitchen were too enticing to resist. The food was delicious, a welcome change from the traditional Icelandic fare we had been eating. It was a reminder that even in the most remote corners of the world, you can find a taste of home. It was a fun break from the Icelandic cuisine we had been enjoying, and Max even managed to practice his chopstick skills, much to Astrid’s amusement. I think she secretly enjoyed watching him struggle.


Experience the best of authentic Thai cuisine fused with Icelandic flavors at Thai Tawee in Ísafjörður.

Our next stop was Krossneslaug, a geothermal pool located in the remote Strandir region of the Westfjords. The drive to the pool was an adventure in itself, taking us through winding roads and past stunning coastal scenery. As we approached Krossnes, the landscape became even more dramatic, with towering cliffs and black sand beaches stretching as far as the eye could see. The pool itself was a welcome oasis, a chance to relax and soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters. The setting was idyllic, with the pool overlooking the ocean and surrounded by rugged mountains. It felt like we were at the edge of the world, far away from the stresses and worries of everyday life. The pool was built in 1954 by local farmers and is heated by natural hot springs. It's sometimes called an infinity pool because of its views of the ocean.


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

As I sank into the warm water, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such a unique and beautiful place. The air was crisp and clean, and the silence was broken only by the sound of the waves crashing against the shore. It was a moment of pure bliss, a chance to connect with nature and find inner peace. We spent hours soaking in the pool, chatting and laughing, and simply enjoying each other's company. It was a reminder of the importance of friendship and the joy of sharing experiences with loved ones. Swimming and chilling close to the Arctic Circle can be kind of fun.

After our relaxing soak, we made our way to Faktorshus in Haestikaupstadur for dinner. This charming restaurant offered a cozy atmosphere and a menu filled with local delicacies. I decided to be adventurous and try the fish of the day, which turned out to be incredibly fresh and flavorful. The restaurant itself was full of character, with exposed wooden beams and vintage décor. It felt like stepping back in time, a glimpse into Iceland's rich cultural heritage. The staff was friendly and welcoming, and they were happy to share stories about the history of the building and the surrounding area. I always appreciate when locals take the time to connect with travelers and share their knowledge and passion for their home.


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

To cap off the evening, we ventured to Skútinn, a local bar known for its lively atmosphere. While I usually prefer a quiet evening, the energy of the place was infectious, and I found myself enjoying the company of the locals and fellow travelers. We shared stories, laughed, and even attempted to learn a few Icelandic phrases. It was a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places, but also about connecting with new people and cultures. I even tried a local beer, which was surprisingly good. It was a fun way to end a long and eventful day.


Experience the charm of Skútinn, a cozy bar in Patreksfjörður, where local flavors and friendly vibes create the perfect retreat after exploring the Westfjords.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and wonder. The Westfjords have a way of captivating the soul, of reminding us of the beauty and power of nature. I am excited to see what tomorrow brings, as we plan to explore more of Hornstrandir. I think I’ll pack an extra layer, just in case the weather decides to be extra Icelandic tomorrow. We’ll be having breakfast at Siver kebab, lunch at Víkurskálin Bolungarvík, and dinner at Stúkuhúsið. We also plan to visit Kertahúsið Candle House tomorrow. I can't wait to see what other hidden gems this incredible region has in store for us.

I must remember to buy a portable phone charger when I get back to Berlin. It would have been useful today.

Tomorrow, we're heading to Hornstrandir. I can't wait!