Family Adventure in Iceland's Hornstrandir Nature Reserve

Homeward Bound

Our Icelandic saga draws to a close, leaving behind a tapestry of memories woven from the rugged beauty of Hornstrandir Nature Reserve. As I sit here, nestled in our tent for one last night, the wind whispering tales against the canvas, I can't help but feel a profound sense of gratitude for this journey. It’s been a whirlwind of hiking, wildlife encounters, and moments of quiet reflection, all shared with my beloved family.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, Iceland's untouched natural paradise in the Westfjords.

The final day in Hornstrandir began with a hearty breakfast at Heimabyggð in Ísafjörður. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong coffee filled the air, a comforting start to a day tinged with the bittersweet feeling of departure. The café, known for its environmentally conscious practices and vegetarian options, was a delightful find. We enjoyed vegan sandwiches and warm oat milk coffees, fueling up for our last few hours in the Westfjords. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff made it a perfect spot to reflect on our adventure.


Discover the cozy charm and delightful flavors of Heimabyggð Café, your perfect stop in Ísafjörður for a taste of local Icelandic cuisine.

After breakfast, we took one last, lingering look at the dramatic landscapes of Hornstrandir. The weather was a mix of rain and snow, typical for May, but it only added to the raw, untamed beauty of the place. I thought back to our initial boat ride into the reserve, the anticipation building as the coastline grew closer, revealing its majestic cliffs and verdant meadows.

Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.

Our time in Hornstrandir has been a masterclass in the art of slow travel. We've learned to appreciate the rhythm of nature, to find joy in the simplest of things, and to connect with each other on a deeper level. The absence of modern distractions has allowed us to be fully present, to truly see and hear and feel the world around us.

Lunch was a casual affair at R5 Micro Bar in Akureyri, a vibrant spot known for its impressive selection of craft beers and inventive cocktails. While I opted for a non-alcoholic beverage, Markus enjoyed sampling some local Icelandic brews. Aino, ever the social butterfly, struck up a conversation with a local artist, learning about the Akureyri art scene. The bar had a cozy and lively atmosphere, providing a perfect blend of community and culture.


Experience Akureyri's vibrant nightlife at R5 Micro Bar, where local brews and a lively atmosphere await you.

As we prepared to leave Ísafjörður, I couldn't help but reflect on the past eight days. Hornstrandir had challenged us, humbled us, and ultimately, enriched us. The unpredictable weather, the demanding hikes, and the close proximity to nature had stripped away the layers of our everyday lives, revealing our true selves.

One evening, as we huddled in our tent during a particularly fierce storm, Aino asked me why we chose to come to such a remote and challenging place. I explained to her that sometimes, the greatest adventures are found not in the most comfortable or convenient locations, but in those that push us beyond our limits. I wanted her to experience the power and resilience of nature, to understand the importance of conservation, and to appreciate the simple joys of life.

Our final dinner was at Magic Ice Reykjavík - Ice Bar & Gallery, a surreal experience that provided a stark contrast to the rugged wilderness we had just left behind. Bundled in winter ponchos and gloves, we wandered through a gallery of ice sculptures, marveling at the intricate details carved into the frozen masterpieces. Aino was particularly fascinated by the Viking-themed sculptures, while Markus and I enjoyed the novelty of sipping drinks from ice glasses. The bar's sub-zero temperatures were a shock to the system after our days of hiking, but the magical atmosphere made it a memorable conclusion to our trip.


Discover Magic Ice Reykjavík - where art meets frost in an unforgettable ice bar experience filled with stunning sculptures and creative cocktails.

I’ll admit, I was initially hesitant about camping in Hornstrandir. I’m not exactly known for my ruggedness, and the thought of spending eight days without the comforts of a hotel was a bit daunting. But Markus, with his unwavering enthusiasm for the outdoors, convinced me that it would be an experience of a lifetime. And he was right.

Looking back, I realize that this trip was about more than just seeing beautiful landscapes. It was about disconnecting from the digital world and reconnecting with each other. It was about challenging ourselves physically and mentally, and discovering a strength and resilience we didn't know we possessed. It was about creating memories that will last a lifetime.

As we make our way back to Helsinki, I carry with me the lessons learned in Hornstrandir. The importance of slowing down, of appreciating the simple things, and of cherishing the bonds of family. And while I may be looking forward to a hot shower and a comfortable bed, a part of me will always remain in that wild, untamed corner of Iceland.

The flight from Reykjavik is scheduled for tomorrow morning. As the plane ascends, I know I’ll be looking down on this magical island with a heavy heart, but also with a sense of fulfillment. We came, we saw, we conquered – not the land, but ourselves. And that, I believe, is the greatest adventure of all.

It’s funny, before this trip, I was feeling a bit lost, a bit disconnected from my passions. My work at the library had become routine, and I was starting to feel like I was just going through the motions. But Hornstrandir has reignited my sense of adventure, my curiosity about the world, and my desire to share my experiences with others. I can’t wait to get back to Helsinki and start planning our next family adventure. Maybe we’ll explore the Finnish Lapland, or perhaps venture further afield to the Faroe Islands. The possibilities are endless, and I’m excited to see where our wanderlust takes us next.

For now, though, it’s time to say goodnight to Iceland. Takk fyrir, Hornstrandir. You’ve been an unforgettable teacher and a breathtaking muse.

And to my family, thank you for sharing this incredible journey with me. I love you more than words can say.

Until next time, keep exploring, keep dreaming, and keep sharing your stories.

Jennifer

P.S. I almost forgot! I did manage to find a small, star-shaped stone on our last hike, a perfect memento to remind me of my Alaskan roots and this incredible Icelandic adventure. It’s a little piece of Hornstrandir that I’ll carry with me always.