Exploring the Untouched Wilderness of Hornstrandir with Friends

A Fond Farewell to Hornstrandir

As our adventure in Hornstrandir draws to a close, I find myself overwhelmed with a mix of emotions. This journey into Iceland's untouched wilderness has been nothing short of extraordinary. The rugged landscapes, tranquil fjords, and the sheer serenity of the Arctic have left an indelible mark on my soul. It’s hard to believe that eight days have already passed; it feels like both a fleeting dream and a lifetime of memories.


Explore the breathtaking wilderness of Hornstrandir in Iceland's Westfjords, a natural paradise of dramatic cliffs and diverse wildlife.

Our final day began with a hearty breakfast at Jötunn restaurant in Ísafjörður. I opted for their Icelandic-style sushi, a unique twist on a familiar favorite, incorporating local flavors that gave me one last taste of the region's culinary heritage. Fuelled up for the day, we decided to spend some time exploring Ísafjörður before our flight back to Reykjavik. The charming town, nestled amidst towering mountains and endless coastlines, offered a perfect blend of cultural experiences and natural beauty.


Discover Jötunn Restaurant: A must-visit culinary destination in Ísafjörður offering exquisite Icelandic-style sushi amidst stunning landscapes.

Our first stop was The Fjord Hub. Knowing my love for cycling, Maximilian suggested I check out their selection of bikes, and outdoor gear. While I wasn’t in the market for a new bike, I couldn’t resist browsing their collection and chatting with the knowledgeable staff about the best cycling routes in the Westfjords. It's inspiring to see a business so dedicated to promoting outdoor adventures and sustainable tourism.


Discover the best bicycles and outdoor gear at The Fjord Hub in Ísafjörður, your one-stop shop for adventure in Iceland's stunning Westfjords.

Next, we wandered through the town, soaking in the atmosphere and browsing the local shops. I couldn't resist popping into a small boutique where I found a beautiful hand-knitted wool scarf, a perfect memento of our time in Iceland. Astrid, of course, was more interested in finding a traditional Icelandic sweater, which she proudly wore for the rest of the day. It was heartwarming to see her embrace the local culture with such enthusiasm.

For lunch, we decided to try Logn, restaurant & bar, located in the Hotel Ísafjörður. The restaurant boasts a diverse menu with a modern twist on Icelandic cuisine. I savored the fresh catch of the day, while Maximilian enjoyed a hearty lamb dish, and Astrid devoured a delicious pizza. The cozy atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes made it a perfect spot to relax and reminisce about our Hornstrandir adventure.


Experience authentic Icelandic flavors at Logn in Ísafjörður – where fresh local ingredients meet warm hospitality.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

After lunch, we had some time to kill before our flight, so we decided to visit Húsið, a charming restaurant and cultural hub in the heart of Ísafjörður. The place was buzzing with activity, a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the cozy ambiance and delicious aromas. We settled into a comfortable corner, ordered some coffee and pastries, and simply enjoyed the lively atmosphere.


Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Húsið in Ísafjörður – where tradition meets breathtaking views.

As I sipped my coffee, I couldn't help but reflect on the incredible experiences we've had over the past week. Hornstrandir is a place unlike any other I've ever visited. Its remoteness and untouched beauty create a sense of tranquility and awe that is hard to describe. The dramatic landscapes, with their soaring mountains, precipitous cliffs, and tranquil fjords, are simply breathtaking. And the wildlife! Spotting Arctic foxes, seals, and countless seabirds in their natural habitat was an unforgettable experience.

Of course, the trip wasn't without its challenges. The unpredictable weather tested our resilience, and the lack of modern amenities forced us to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature and each other. But in the end, these challenges only added to the adventure, making the experience even more rewarding.

One of the highlights of the trip was undoubtedly the hiking. We traversed rugged trails, crossed mountain passes, and navigated through fields of wildflowers, each step revealing a new vista more stunning than the last. The sense of accomplishment after completing a challenging hike, coupled with the breathtaking views, was simply exhilarating.

I also cherished the moments of quiet contemplation, sitting by a fjord, listening to the gentle lapping of the waves, and watching the clouds drift across the sky. These moments of solitude allowed me to fully appreciate the serenity and beauty of Hornstrandir, and to reconnect with myself on a deeper level. I found myself reflecting on my life back in Berlin, my work as a translator, and my passion for travel and cultural exploration. It's these moments of reflection that make travel so enriching, allowing me to gain new perspectives and insights into myself and the world around me.

Traveling with friends made the experience even more special. Sharing laughter, stories, and the occasional hardship created a bond that I know will last a lifetime. It's these shared experiences that truly make a trip memorable, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to have explored Hornstrandir with such wonderful companions.

As we boarded our flight back to Reykjavik, I gazed out the window, watching the rugged coastline of Hornstrandir fade into the distance. A wave of nostalgia washed over me, a longing to return to this magical place. But I knew that I would carry the memories of this adventure with me always, a reminder of the beauty and power of nature, and the importance of disconnecting from the modern world and reconnecting with what truly matters.

Hornstrandir, you have captured my heart. Thank you for the adventure of a lifetime.

As I reflect on this incredible journey, I am already dreaming of future adventures. Perhaps a return to Norway to explore the landscapes of my childhood, or a trip to Spain to brush up on my Spanish and immerse myself in its vibrant culture. The world is full of wonders waiting to be discovered, and I am eager to continue my exploration, one adventure at a time.

And who knows, maybe someday I'll return to Hornstrandir, to once again immerse myself in its untouched wilderness and reconnect with the serenity of the Arctic. Until then, the memories of this unforgettable journey will continue to inspire and guide me on my path.

For those of you considering a trip to Hornstrandir, I can only offer one piece of advice: go. Embrace the challenges, disconnect from the digital world, and immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of this magical place. You won't regret it.

As our plane ascends, leaving behind the majestic fjords and rugged peaks, I whisper a promise to myself: this isn't goodbye, Hornstrandir, but rather, until we meet again.

The next part of our journey sees us back in Reykjavik, where we will unwind from our outdoor adventure. I am looking forward to some less strenuous activities, like exploring the city's cultural scene, visiting museums, and maybe even taking a dip in the famous Blue Lagoon! Stay tuned for more tales from Iceland!

Safe travels!