Exploring the Untouched Wilderness of Hornstrandir with Friends

A Day of Serendipitous Finds

Today in Hornstrandir felt like stepping into a storybook where every turn held a new surprise. It wasn't just about the landscape, although the dramatic cliffs and serene fjords continued to take my breath away. It was about the unexpected moments, the delicious tastes, and the charming discoveries that made this day uniquely special.


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

The morning began, as every morning should, with a hearty breakfast. Siver Kebab might not be the most traditional Icelandic fare, but it was surprisingly satisfying, and a welcome change from our usual camping meals. Fuelled up, we were ready to embrace whatever the day held. The weather in Hornstrandir can be unpredictable, but today, the sun peeked through the clouds just enough to cast a golden glow on the landscape, making everything seem even more magical. Maximilian, ever the pragmatist, checked his weather app religiously, while I preferred to simply soak in the atmosphere, trusting that whatever came our way, we would handle it together.

Our main focus for the day was, of course, Hornstrandir itself [i]. The sheer scale of the nature reserve is astounding. Tundra, expansive fields, cliffs and ice cover about 220 sq m (580 square kilometers) of the whole area. Hiking here feels like a privilege, a chance to witness nature in its purest form. We chose a trail that promised panoramic views, and it didn't disappoint. The crisp September air filled my lungs as we climbed, the only sounds the crunch of our boots on the rocky path and the distant calls of seabirds. I could see fulmars and kittiwakes, as well as other birds. I made sure to take deep breaths, thankful that I remembered to pack my hiking boots. I am sure I would have had a hard time navigating the trails without them.

Sometimes, the most memorable moments are the ones you least expect.

Lunch at Víkurskálin Bolungarvík was another delightful surprise. The restaurant offered stunning views of the surrounding area. The hearty Icelandic stew was exactly what we needed to warm us up after our hike. It was the kind of place where locals and travelers mingled, sharing stories and laughter. I even picked up a few new Icelandic phrases, much to Maximilian's amusement. He always teases me about my love for languages, but I think he secretly appreciates it when I can order our meals in the local tongue.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Víkurskálin Bolungarvík, where local flavors meet stunning views in a cozy setting.

But the real highlight of the day, the unexpected gem that truly captured my heart, was our visit to Kertahúsið Candle House. Tucked away in a small corner of Hornstrandir, this charming shop was a haven of warmth and creativity. As soon as we stepped inside, the scent of beeswax and essential oils enveloped us, creating a sense of calm and tranquility. The shop was filled with handcrafted candles in every shape, size, and color imaginable. Each candle was a work of art, meticulously created by local artisans. I was particularly drawn to the candles shaped like puffins, Iceland's iconic seabirds. Astrid would have adored them! I made a mental note to bring her back a few souvenirs from our trip.


Explore Kertahúsið Candle House in Ísafjörður for handcrafted candles and unique Icelandic gifts that embody the spirit of your travels.

I spent a long time talking to the shop owner, a kind woman named Elín, who shared her passion for candle-making and her deep connection to the land. She explained that she used only natural, sustainable materials, and that each candle was infused with the energy of Hornstrandir. It was inspiring to see someone so dedicated to their craft and so committed to preserving the environment. I ended up buying several candles, not just as souvenirs, but as reminders of the beauty and resilience of this extraordinary place. As we left the shop, the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting long shadows across the landscape. The air grew cooler, but my heart felt warm and content.

Dinner at Stúkuhúsið was the perfect end to a perfect day. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a menu that showcased the best of Icelandic cuisine. We feasted on fresh seafood and hearty lamb dishes, savoring every bite. Maximilian and I shared stories and reflected on our adventures, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience this incredible place together. It was one of those moments where everything felt right in the world, where the stresses of everyday life melted away, and all that mattered was the present moment.


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

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can still smell the scent of beeswax from the candles I bought at Kertahúsið. It's a comforting reminder of the day's adventures, the unexpected discoveries, and the simple joys of exploring a new place with friends. Tomorrow, we plan to continue our exploration of Hornstrandir. We'll have breakfast at Hópið, lunch at Faktorshus in Haestikaupstadur, and dinner at Tjöruhúsið. We might even stop by Jötunn restaurant for a drink. I am looking forward to experiencing the new day with my friends. I'm excited to see what other hidden gems this remarkable corner of Iceland has in store for us. But for now, I'm content to bask in the memories of today, a day of serendipitous finds and delicious discoveries in the heart of Hornstrandir. I think I will try to make some time to write in my travel journal before I go to sleep. It is a great way to reflect on the day and savour the memories.

Traveling with friends has made this trip even more special. Sharing these experiences with people I care about adds a layer of joy and connection that I wouldn't trade for anything. As I drift off to sleep, I'm filled with gratitude for the beauty of Hornstrandir, the warmth of its people, and the bonds of friendship that make every adventure worthwhile. I am also very thankful that I did not forget to pack my camera, as the landscape is breathtaking. I would have missed capturing the unforgettable memories.