Family Adventure in Hornstrandir: An Icelandic Wilderness Escape

Westfjords Wonders: Waterfalls, Glaciers, and Gastronomic Delights

Today was a symphony of sights, sounds, and tastes, all set against the dramatic backdrop of Iceland's Westfjords. Leaving our campsite this morning, fuelled by excitement and Húsið's hearty breakfast, we embarked on a day that promised both natural wonders and culinary adventures. I was particularly looking forward to showing Aino the glacier.

Our first destination was Möngufoss, a waterfall tucked away in the Unadalur valley. The drive itself was a treat, winding through landscapes that felt both ancient and untouched. Markus navigated the roads with his usual calm precision, while Aino kept her eyes peeled for any signs of Arctic foxes. The anticipation was palpable as we finally parked the car and began our hike.

The trail to Möngufoss was a delightful mix of rugged terrain and stunning vistas. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of wildflowers and damp earth. It took us a couple of hours, but we made it to Möngufoss! The waterfall cascaded down the rocks with a mesmerizing power. We spent a long time just watching the water and listening to the roar. Aino was fascinated, scrambling over rocks to get the best view, her laughter echoing through the valley. I managed to capture some photos, hoping to freeze this moment in time.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Möngufoss waterfall in Unadhsdalur, Iceland, where nature's tranquility meets stunning landscapes.

The beauty of Iceland isn't just in its grand landscapes, but in the quiet moments of connection with nature and loved ones.

After our invigorating waterfall hike, we drove towards the majestic Drangajökull glacier. Even though we didn't get as close as I would have liked, the sheer size of it was awe-inspiring! Drangajökull, I learned, is unique as the northernmost glacier in Iceland and, surprisingly, it hasn't decreased in size like many others, despite climate change. This made me feel a little better, but the need to act is still very real.


Explore Drangajökull Glacier, the northernmost glacier in Iceland, where stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures await amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

Aino peppered me with questions about glaciers, their formation, and their impact on the environment. It was a wonderful opportunity to share my knowledge and instill in her a sense of responsibility towards our planet. I tried to explain how glaciers like Drangajökull shape the landscape, feeding rivers and streams, and supporting unique ecosystems. It’s crucial for her generation to understand the importance of preserving these icy giants for the future.

By lunchtime, our stomachs were rumbling, so we headed to Einarshusid in Bolungarvík. The restaurant was charming, with a cozy atmosphere that immediately made us feel at home. We opted for the lunch buffet, eager to sample some traditional Icelandic dishes. Markus raved about the pizza, while Aino devoured a plate of fish, declaring it the best she'd ever tasted. I particularly enjoyed the traditional Icelandic dishes and seafood soup. It was hearty and flavorful, a perfect way to warm up after our outdoor adventures.


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

After lunch, we wandered through the town, soaking in the local atmosphere. Bolungarvík is a picturesque fishing village, with colorful houses and a bustling harbor. It’s easy to imagine the fishermen heading out to sea each day, their lives intertwined with the rhythms of the ocean. We learned that Einarshusid is located in a restored wooden building over a hundred years old, and that two of the pioneers of the town lived in this house. It's amazing to imagine all the history that has taken place within those walls.

Before dinner, we stopped at Þristur, a local shop in Ísafjörður. I wanted to find a small souvenir to remind us of our time in the Westfjords. The shop was a treasure trove of Icelandic crafts and trinkets. Aino was drawn to the woolen sweaters, while Markus admired the handcrafted knives. I settled on a small piece of lava rock jewelry, a tangible reminder of Iceland's volcanic landscape. I also took the opportunity to buy a portable solar charger, remembering that we had forgotten it from our packing list. It's always something, isn't it?


Discover unique Icelandic souvenirs and electronics at Þristur, the charming gift shop in Ísafjörður, perfect for every traveler.

As evening approached, we made our way to Tjöruhúsið for dinner. This restaurant is renowned for its fresh seafood, and it certainly lived up to its reputation. The atmosphere was lively and convivial, with long communal tables encouraging conversation and camaraderie. We opted for the fish buffet, eager to sample as many different varieties as possible. Each dish was prepared with care and expertise, highlighting the natural flavors of the fish.


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

The staff was incredibly friendly, explaining each dish with enthusiasm and offering recommendations. Aino, who can sometimes be a picky eater, surprised us by trying everything and declaring it all delicious. Markus and I savored every bite, appreciating the freshness and quality of the ingredients. From cod cheeks in lemon butter to trout in blueberry almond sauce, each dish was a culinary revelation. To end the meal, tea, coffee, cookies and chocolate were available. What a treat!

After dinner, as the midnight sun cast a golden glow over the town, we strolled along the harbor, hand in hand. The air was still and peaceful, the only sound the gentle lapping of waves against the docks. We reflected on the day's adventures, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and tranquility of the Westfjords.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Djúpavík and Stórurðarlundur, venturing further into the heart of the Westfjords. I am already excited about what tomorrow will bring!

As I sit here in our tent, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. Today was a reminder of the simple joys in life: good food, good company, and the awe-inspiring beauty of the natural world. I'm so grateful to be sharing this experience with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

I'm also grateful that we were able to experience so many wonderful restaurants today. I was reading that Ísafjörður has a wide variety of restaurants, from seafood to pizza, so I look forward to trying more during our stay.