Exploring the Untouched Wilderness of Hornstrandir with Friends

Echoes of Industry and Nature's Majesty

Today was a day of contrasts, a journey from the stark remnants of human ambition to the serene artistry of nature. The wind carried whispers of bygone eras, and the landscape unfolded in layers of history and geological wonder. I felt a profound connection to this land, a sentiment I always cherish when traveling, especially with my friends.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Café Riis Hólmavík - Restaurant - Pizzeria & Bar, a cozy spot that fueled us up for the adventures ahead. I savored the moment, thinking of Maximilian and Astrid back in Berlin. Astrid would have loved the pastries! After breakfast, we stocked up on a few essentials at Þristur, making sure we had enough snacks for the day’s hikes.

Our first destination was Djúpavík, a place that hums with the ghosts of Iceland's industrial past. The drive there was stunning, with the road winding along the coastline, offering panoramic views of the sea. Djúpavík itself is a small village, almost hauntingly quiet. The main attraction is the abandoned herring factory, a colossal concrete structure that dominates the landscape. Elías Stefánsson built a salting factory for herring in 1917, marking the start of settlement in the bay. However, the country faced an economic downturn, and the factory went bankrupt two years later. New owners made an effort to save it, but it was abandoned again in the 1920s. A new factory, the largest concrete building in Iceland at the time, was built on the site in 1934 and was very successful.


Discover the historic Djúpavík, where Iceland's fishing legacy comes to life in a stunning coastal setting, perfect for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

Exploring the factory was like stepping back in time. The sheer scale of the building is impressive, and you can almost hear the echoes of the workers and the machinery. The factory operated until 1954 and now serves as an exhibition building. We wandered through the cavernous halls, imagining the bustling activity that once filled these spaces. The remnants of the machinery, the peeling paint, and the graffiti on the walls told a silent story of ambition, struggle, and eventual abandonment. It was a poignant reminder of how even the grandest endeavors can be vulnerable to the whims of fate.

The beauty of Iceland lies not only in its landscapes but also in the stories etched into its very soil.

After Djúpavík, we had lunch at Hamraborg ehf before heading to Stórurðarlundur, a place that could not be more different. Leaving the stark industrial landscape behind, we drove towards the mountains, the scenery transforming into a lush, green paradise. The hike to Stórurðarlundur was moderately challenging, with a well-marked trail that meandered through fields of wildflowers and past gurgling streams. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of heather and damp earth. The weather in September is generally calm and dry, with an average temperature of 7.4°C (45.3°F). However, it can be unpredictable, so it's important to be prepared for rain and cold weather.


Discover the tranquility of Stórurðarlundur, a serene park in Ísafjörður, perfect for nature walks and family picnics amidst stunning Icelandic landscapes.

As we climbed higher, the landscape opened up to reveal a hidden valley, a secret world of turquoise pools and towering rock formations. Stórurðarlundur, which translates to great boulder field, is a geological wonder, a collection of massive boulders scattered across a verdant meadow. These boulders, remnants of a past glacial age, create a surreal and magical landscape. We spent hours exploring this natural playground, clambering over rocks, dipping our toes in the icy water, and marveling at the sheer scale of the place. It felt like stepping into a painting, a landscape crafted by giants.

The tranquility of Stórurðarlundur was deeply restorative. Surrounded by such raw, untamed beauty, it was easy to forget the stresses of everyday life. I found myself reflecting on the simple joys of being in nature, of sharing these moments with friends. We laughed, we explored, and we simply breathed in the beauty of Iceland. It was a moment of pure, unadulterated bliss.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to Hólmavík, where we enjoyed a delicious dinner at Logn, restaurant & bar. The warm food and good company were the perfect end to a day of exploration and wonder. We recounted our adventures, sharing stories and laughter, our hearts full of gratitude for the experiences we had shared.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Drangajökull útsýnisstaður and Krossneslaug [Itinerary of tomorrow]. I'm particularly excited about the hot springs! As I settle into my sleeping bag, I feel a deep sense of contentment. Iceland continues to surprise and inspire me, revealing new layers of beauty and wonder with each passing day. I am so grateful for this journey, for the opportunity to connect with nature and with friends, and for the chance to share these experiences with you all. Goodnight from the edge of the world.

The weather in Djúpavík in September has an average temperature of 47°F (maximum temperature is 50°F and minimum temperature is 43°F). With 3.8in over 6 days, rain may occur during your vacations. In September, the average low temperature is 43°F (6°C) and the average high is 52°F (11°C). The amount of rain will depend on where you are but doesn't differ too much from August. The average is around 3 inches (76mm) of rain. In September, you will lose 3 hours of daylight, from 16 to 13 hours of sun. September is usually a good month to rent a car in Iceland, even though the summer is over the roads are usually open and conditions not bad. But it is almost impossible to predict the weather in head of time so in September you need to be prepared for all kinds of weather, including heavy rain, snow, blizzards and wind.