Exploring the Untouched Wilderness of Hornstrandir with Friends

A Day of Contrasts and Culinary Delights

Today was a day of contrasts, a beautiful blend of rugged landscapes and delightful town discoveries. Hornstrandir continues to surprise me with its raw, untouched beauty, and Ísafjörður, with its charming culture and culinary scene, provided a perfect complement. I'm excited to share the details of our adventures with you all.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Kaffi Norðurfjörður. The cozy atmosphere and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee were the perfect start to a day of hiking. I opted for the traditional Scandinavian fare – perfectly cooked curried cod accompanied by slices of rye bread. The warmth of the coffee and the hearty meal fortified me for the adventures ahead. Maximilian enjoyed the fish soup, declaring it a 'taste of Iceland' in a bowl. We chatted with the friendly staff, who shared some local tips about the hiking trails around Drangaskörð. It’s these little interactions that make traveling so enriching.

Fueled and ready, we set off to explore Drangaskörð, a renowned hiking spot in Hornstrandir. The weather was crisp and clear, ideal for a challenging trek. The trail began gently, winding through fields dotted with wildflowers. Astrid would have loved running through these meadows, her laughter echoing in the open space. Soon, however, the path became steeper and rockier, demanding careful footing. I was reminded of hiking in the Brandenburg countryside, though this was a far more dramatic landscape.

As we ascended, the views became increasingly breathtaking. The vast expanse of the North Atlantic stretched out before us, its surface shimmering under the sunlight. The dramatic cliffs of Hornstrandir plunged into the sea, creating a stunning panorama of raw, untamed beauty. I paused frequently to capture photos, hoping to do justice to the awe-inspiring scenery.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

The final stretch to Drangaskörð was the most challenging. We scrambled over large boulders, using our hands for support. Reaching the summit, we were rewarded with a view that made every drop of sweat worthwhile. The world seemed to stretch out endlessly before us, a tapestry of fjords, mountains, and ocean. We took a moment to simply breathe and absorb the grandeur. I felt a profound sense of accomplishment, a feeling of being connected to something larger than myself. Maximilian, always the quiet observer, simply smiled, his eyes reflecting the vastness of the landscape. He later admitted that this was his favorite view so far.

The descent was equally challenging, requiring careful steps and constant vigilance. By the time we reached the bottom, our legs were aching, but our spirits were high. We had conquered Drangaskörð, and the memories of that experience would stay with us forever.

Back in Ísafjörður, our stomachs were rumbling, signaling the need for a hearty meal. We decided to try Einarshusid for lunch. This restaurant came highly recommended, known for its locally sourced seafood and traditional Icelandic dishes. The restaurant itself was a charming, historic building, adding to the overall experience. We ordered the fish of the day, and it was incredibly fresh and flavorful. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff made us feel right at home. Maximilian even struck up a conversation with the owner, learning about the history of the building and the town.

For dinner, we ventured to Tjöruhúsið, a renowned seafood restaurant in Ísafjörður. Nestled inside a historic fish warehouse, the ambiance was unforgettable. We opted for the seafood buffet, a feast of freshly caught fish prepared in various ways. The fish soup was spectacular, and each dish was incredibly fresh. The communal tables and rustic setting fostered a sense of camaraderie among the diners. I even chatted with a couple from Reykjavik, exchanging travel stories and tips. The owner was a portly man clearly passionate about food. He told us a story about when Heston Blumenthal, chef of The Fat Duck, visited and fried his catch of the day in the kitchen. Despite my usual reservations about fish, I found myself thoroughly enjoying every bite. It was a testament to the skill and passion of the chefs. Maximilian, a true seafood lover, was in heaven, sampling every dish with gusto.

Before heading back to our campsite, we took a stroll through Ísafjörður, soaking in the town's atmosphere. We stopped by Rammagerð Ísafjarðar, a charming shop showcasing local crafts and handmade goods. I was immediately drawn to the beautifully crafted glassware and quirky local crafts. I picked up a delicate silver pendant of a Viking compass, a nod to my Norwegian roots. Maximilian found a cozy, hand-knitted scarf, perfect for the chilly Icelandic evenings. The shop was a treasure trove of unique souvenirs, each item telling a story of Icelandic craftsmanship.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves reflecting on the incredible experiences we had. From the challenging hike to Drangaskörð to the culinary delights of Ísafjörður, every moment was filled with wonder and discovery. I am so grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful corner of the world with my friends.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Möngufoss (Hlíðarhús) and Drangajökull, continuing our exploration of Hornstrandir’s natural wonders. We also plan to visit Verbudin for a drink. I can't wait to see what adventures await us. Until then, takk fyrir and goodnight from Iceland!


Explore the breathtaking cliffs and serene landscapes of Drangaskörð, a hidden gem in Iceland's Westfjords, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Kaffi Norðurfjörður with stunning fjord views and warm hospitality.


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


Discover authentic Icelandic seafood at Tjöruhúsið in Ísafjörður—where every dish tells a story from the sea.


Explore Rammagerð Ísafjarðar: A treasure trove of unique Icelandic gifts, handcrafted art, and seasonal delights that reflect the local culture.