Family Adventure in Iceland's Hornstrandir Nature Reserve

A Day of Serenity and Exploration

Today was a day of venturing into the heart of Iceland's Westfjords, a journey filled with both relaxation and a deeper connection to the land. It was a day where the simplicity of Icelandic life met the raw beauty of its landscapes, creating memories I know our family will cherish for years to come.

Our day began in Ísafjörður, a town that has quickly captured my heart with its colourful houses and stunning fjord views. After a hearty breakfast at Kaffi Sól, a place Markus had scouted out for its traditional Icelandic fare. I opted for the *lumpfish with rye bread*, a local specialty that was surprisingly delightful. Aino, ever the pancake enthusiast, devoured a stack of those. The cozy atmosphere of Kaffi Sól, with its views overlooking one of Iceland's prettiest fjords, made it feel like we were having breakfast with family. I made a mental note to try to replicate their *rhubarb jam* when we get back to Helsinki; I think I could get Markus hooked on rye bread if I had that jam to go with it.


Discover the charm of Kaffi Sól in Flateyri – a perfect blend of cozy ambiance, delightful cuisine, and exceptional coffee in the heart of Iceland.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we made a quick stop at Penninn Eymundsson Ísafirði. I needed to pick up a new notebook – my old one was nearly full of scribbles and sketches from our adventures. The store itself was charming, located in an old building dating back to 1927. Aino found a book on Nordic mythology, further fueling her fascination with the sagas. It's wonderful to see her so engaged with her heritage, even if it's through fantastical tales of gods and monsters.


Explore the treasure trove of literature and crafts at Penninn Eymundsson Ísafjörði, the heart of Ísafjörður's cultural scene.

Sometimes, the most unforgettable experiences are found in the most remote places.

The drive to Krossneslaug was an adventure in itself. The roads wound along the coastline, offering panoramic views of the dramatic landscape. The Westfjords are truly a world apart, a place where nature reigns supreme. We passed through quaint villages and over mountain passes, each turn revealing a new vista more breathtaking than the last. I couldn't help but feel grateful for the reliable car we rented; these roads demand respect and a sturdy vehicle. I remembered reading about the Museum of Sorcery and Witchcraft in Hólmavík. I was tempted to make a detour, but Markus reminded me that we were on a schedule and Aino was already impatient to get to the pool. Maybe next time, I thought, adding it to my ever-growing list of places to explore in Iceland.

Finally, we arrived at Krossneslaug. Nestled between rugged mountains and the vast Atlantic Ocean, the pool exuded a sense of peace and tranquility. Built in 1954 by local farmers, the pool is fed by natural hot springs, offering a soothing warmth. The facilities were basic but clean, with changing rooms and showers available. The entrance fee was a nominal 1000 ISK (about $7 USD), a small price to pay for such a unique experience.


Discover the soothing geothermal waters of Krossneslaug, a thermal bath in Árnes, Iceland, surrounded by stunning coastal landscapes.

As I sank into the warm water, I felt my muscles instantly relax. The view was simply stunning – the endless expanse of the ocean stretching out before me, with the waves crashing against the shore. Aino splashed around happily, while Markus simply floated, his eyes closed, soaking in the serenity. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of the sea. I could easily see why people call Krossneslaug the hot spring at the end of the world. The history of the pool added another layer to the experience. Built by local farmers in 1954, it stands as a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Icelandic people. Knowing that the pool was created with such care and dedication made the experience all the more special.

We spent a couple of hours at Krossneslaug, swimming, soaking, and simply enjoying each other's company. It was the perfect way to unwind after a long day of driving and exploring. As we left, I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. This was exactly the kind of experience we had hoped for – a chance to connect with nature, immerse ourselves in Icelandic culture, and create lasting memories as a family.

Our final stop for the day was in Patreksfjörður, where we had dinner at Vestur restaurant. Located within an N1 gas station, it was an unexpected find, but the food was surprisingly good. I opted for the fish and chips, while Markus went for a burger. Aino, of course, chose pizza. The restaurant had a simple but diverse menu. The staff was friendly and welcoming, adding to the cozy atmosphere.


Experience the authentic flavors of Iceland at Vestur Restaurant in Patreksfjörður, a perfect blend of local cuisine and welcoming atmosphere.

As we drove back to our campsite, the sun began to set, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. The landscape was bathed in a soft, golden light, creating a scene of unparalleled beauty. I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible journey, for the opportunity to explore such a unique and breathtaking part of the world with my family.

Tomorrow marks the end of our Hornstrandir adventure. We plan to have breakfast at Heimabyggð and lunch at R5 Micro Bar in Reykjavik. Then it's time to head to Magic Ice Reykjavík for dinner before flying back to Helsinki. While I'm looking forward to returning home, I know I'll carry the memories of this trip with me always. The raw beauty of Hornstrandir, the warmth of the Icelandic people, and the joy of sharing it all with my family – it's an experience I'll never forget.

The Westfjords have a unique charm that's hard to put into words. It's a place where time seems to slow down, where the beauty of nature is amplified, and where the simple things in life are truly appreciated. It’s a reminder of the importance of disconnecting from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnecting with the natural world.

I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings, but for now, I’m content to drift off to sleep, lulled by the sounds of the Icelandic countryside, dreaming of hot springs and endless horizons.