Family Adventure in Iceland's Hornstrandir Nature Reserve

Echoes of Herring and Glacial Grandeur

Today was a day of contrasts, a journey through time and landscape that left me pondering the resilience of both nature and humankind. Leaving our campsite, we ventured deeper into the Westfjords, eager to uncover the stories etched into this remote corner of Iceland. It’s amazing how much history and natural beauty can be packed into a single day, especially when shared with my favorite travel companions.



Our first stop was Djúpavík, a place that hums with the echoes of its past. The drive there was an adventure in itself, winding along Route 643, offering breathtaking views of the coastline. I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation building as we approached this village steeped in history. Markus expertly navigated the roads, while Aino kept us entertained with stories she’d read about Icelandic folklore. The landscape was rugged and raw, reminding me of the Alaskan wilderness I grew up in.




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.
Djúpavík is a tiny hamlet nestled in Reykjarfjörður fjord, known for its colossal herring factory. The factory's story began in 1917 when Elías Stefánsson established a herring salting station. Although it initially went bankrupt, a new factory was built in 1934, becoming the largest concrete structure in Iceland at the time. Imagine, the largest concrete building in Iceland in such a remote location! It operated until 1954, and today, it stands as a testament to a bygone era.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quietest corners of the world, where nature and history intertwine.

We had breakfast at Hópið, savoring the simple pleasures of a hearty meal before diving into our exploration. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of the sea. After breakfast, we explored the old herring factory. It was fascinating to walk through the cavernous building, imagining the bustling activity of the workers during the herring boom. The factory floor, once filled with modern machinery, now houses a small exhibition recalling the golden era.




Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Hópið in Tálknafjörður, where fresh ingredients meet warm hospitality.
The sheer scale of the operation was impressive, a testament to the ambition and ingenuity of the people who once called this place home. I couldn’t help but think about my work as a librarian, preserving stories and histories within the pages of books. Here, the factory itself was a living, breathing book, its walls whispering tales of fortunes made and lost. Markus, with his software engineer’s mind, was fascinated by the engineering aspects of the factory, while Aino was captivated by the stories of the people who lived and worked here.


After our visit to Djúpavík, we had lunch at Cafe Restaurant Dunhagi. It was a cozy spot, perfect for refueling before our next adventure. Over sandwiches and hot soup, we discussed our impressions of Djúpavík, marveling at how such a remote place could hold so much history. It’s these moments of connection, sharing stories and experiences with my family, that make these trips so special.




Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Cafe Restaurant Dunhagi in Tálknafjörður - where every dish tells a story.
Our afternoon was dedicated to the majestic Drangajökull útsýnisstaður, a viewpoint offering uninterrupted views of the Drangajökull glacier. The drive to the viewpoint was stunning, taking us along Route 635 northwest of Hólmavík. The landscape transformed into a vast expanse of untouched wilderness, with the glacier looming in the distance. Drangajökull is unique as the northernmost glacier in Iceland and one of the smallest, with an ice cap of only about 200 square kilometers. What’s even more remarkable is that it's the only Icelandic glacier that hasn't shrunk in recent years.



Discover breathtaking views at Drangajökull Observation Deck, a serene escape in Iceland's stunning Westfjords, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Reaching the Drangajökull viewpoint, we were greeted by a breathtaking panorama. The glacier stood in stark contrast to the surrounding landscape, its icy expanse shimmering under the afternoon sun. It felt like stepping into another world, a realm of pristine beauty and tranquility. We parked near the Kaldalón inlet and walked closer, eager to absorb the grandeur of the glacier. The air was crisp and cold, carrying the faint scent of ice and snow. Aino, bundled in her warmest layers, was thrilled to see a real glacier up close. I took several photos, trying to capture the immensity of the scene, knowing that no image could truly do it justice.


Standing there, gazing at Drangajökull, I felt a profound sense of peace. The glacier seemed to embody the resilience and strength of the Icelandic people, a symbol of hope in the face of adversity. It was a reminder that even in the most remote and challenging environments, life can thrive and endure. Perhaps that’s why I feel so drawn to the Arctic and Nordic regions – there’s a certain magic in the way nature shapes the character of the people who call these places home.


As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Víkurskálin Bolungarvík for dinner. The restaurant offered a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Over a delicious meal of traditional Icelandic fare, we recounted our favorite moments of the day, sharing stories and laughter. It’s these shared experiences that strengthen our bonds as a family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.



Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Víkurskálin Bolungarvík, where local flavors meet stunning views in a cozy setting.
Tomorrow, we plan to visit Krossneslaug, a remote pool that I’ve heard is absolutely magical. I’m also hoping to do some shopping at Penninn Eymundsson Ísafirdi, picking up some books and souvenirs to remind us of our time here. As I reflect on today’s adventures, I’m filled with gratitude for the opportunity to explore this incredible corner of the world with my family. The whispers of the past in Djúpavík and the glacial grandeur of Drangajökull have left an indelible mark on my soul, reminding me of the power and beauty of nature and the enduring spirit of humankind.


And as I prepare for another day of exploration, I can’t help but feel a sense of excitement for what lies ahead. Iceland, with its ever-changing landscapes and rich history, continues to surprise and inspire me, one day at a time.