Family Adventure in Iceland's Hornstrandir Nature Reserve

A Day of Icelandic Wonders

Today was a day of embracing the raw, untamed beauty of Iceland, a day where the landscape whispered stories of ancient forces and serene tranquility. It was a day of adventure, a day of discovery, and a day that reminded me why I fell in love with the Nordic landscapes in the first place. From cascading waterfalls to fields of colossal boulders, every moment felt like stepping into a different world.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Siver kebab. I must admit, kebab for breakfast wasn't exactly what I had in mind when in Iceland, but it was surprisingly delicious and provided the energy we needed for the day's adventures. Aino, of course, was thrilled with the novelty of it all. Markus, ever the pragmatist, appreciated the quick and efficient service.

Our first stop was Möngufoss, also known as Hlíðarhús, a picturesque waterfall tucked away from the well-trodden tourist paths. The drive itself was an experience, winding through the dramatic fjords of Hornstrandir. As we drove along road 635, the landscape transformed into a secluded haven, far from the bustling tourist spots. The anticipation grew with each passing kilometer, knowing we were heading towards a hidden gem. When we finally arrived, the sight of Möngufoss was truly rewarding. The waterfall cascaded down with a gentle roar, surrounded by lush greenery, creating a serene and almost magical atmosphere. It felt like we had discovered our own secret paradise. The fresh, misty air invigorated us as we stood in awe of nature's artistry. It was the perfect start to our day, a reminder of the untouched beauty that Hornstrandir holds.


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

Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.

Next on our itinerary was Stórurðarlundur, a place that sounded intriguing from the moment I read about it: a boulder field with turquoise pools nestled amidst green meadows. The drive to Stórurðarlundur from Möngufoss was filled with anticipation. We took Route 61 heading east from Ísafjörður, and then turned left onto Route 63. The journey itself was a visual feast, with scenic views that made the drive feel like a part of the adventure. As we approached the area, the landscape began to change, preparing us for the unique experience that awaited.

There are three different trailheads to reach Stórurð: the Visitors Center (the longest trail at 15km), Vatnsskarð trailhead (13km), and Njarðvík trailhead, which is the shortest at 10km. The hike to Stórurð was an adventure in itself. We chose a trail that was nicely marked with yellow trail marks. The path was easy to follow, passing through a variety of landscapes, from rocky terrain to green meadows. The initial part of the trail had a steep, rocky section, but it soon flattened out with gentle ups and downs. We crossed several small creeks using the sturdy bridges that someone had thoughtfully built.

As we approached Stórurð, the landscape opened up, revealing a breathtaking view of massive boulders scattered across the valley, with a stunning turquoise pool in the center. The scale of the boulders was truly impressive, especially from the upper viewpoint on the last part of the trail. The descent into the valley was steep, and the climb back up was equally challenging, but the view made it all worthwhile. We spent a good hour exploring the boulder field, marveling at the sheer size and unique formations of the rocks. The turquoise pool added a touch of magic to the scene, reflecting the sky and creating a surreal atmosphere. Aino was particularly fascinated by the boulders, climbing on them and imagining them as ancient giants frozen in time. Markus, with his practical mind, was intrigued by the geological processes that had created such a unique landscape. I simply soaked in the beauty of it all, feeling a deep connection to the earth and its history. We had our lunch at Faktorshus in Haestikaupstadur, which was a welcome break after the hike.

Before heading back to our campsite, we made a stop at Gjafaland in Ísafjörður. I had read about this charming souvenir shop, and I was eager to find a special memento of our trip. Gjafaland is located at Aðalstræti 24, 400 Ísafjörður. As we stepped inside, we were greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The shop was filled with a diverse selection of handmade goods and unique gifts that reflected the artistry and culture of Iceland. I was particularly drawn to the traditional Icelandic wool items, with their intricate patterns and cozy feel. Aino was fascinated by the intricately crafted jewelry, while Markus appreciated the practical and well-designed souvenirs.

I ended up buying a beautiful hand-knitted wool scarf for myself, a reminder of the warmth and beauty of Iceland. Aino chose a delicate silver pendant shaped like a puffin, a symbol of the adorable birds we hoped to see during our trip. Markus found a practical waterproof bag, perfect for our upcoming adventures. The staff at Gjafaland were incredibly helpful, sharing stories about the local artisans and the inspiration behind their creations. It was more than just a shopping experience; it was a connection to the heart and soul of Icelandic craftsmanship.

Dinner at Hamraborg ehf was a delightful end to a day filled with exploration and wonder. As we sat down to eat, we shared our favorite moments from the day, reliving the awe-inspiring sights and the simple joys of being together in this extraordinary place. The conversation flowed easily, filled with laughter and shared memories. As the day drew to a close, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the experiences we had shared. Hornstrandir had exceeded all my expectations, offering a blend of rugged wilderness and serene beauty that touched my soul. It was a reminder of the power of nature to inspire and rejuvenate, and the importance of cherishing these moments with family.

Back at our campsite, as I zipped up my sleeping bag, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement for what tomorrow would bring. We are planning to visit Drangajökull tomorrow, and I can’t wait to share the experience with all of you. It will be another day of exploration, another day of discovery, and another day of creating memories that will last a lifetime. I made sure to charge my camera, and I even remembered the portable solar charger that I had forgotten to pack initially. Good night from the enchanting Hornstrandir Nature Reserve!