Exploring the Wild Beauty of Hornstrandir with Family

A Day of Wonders in Hornstrandir's Embrace

Today was a day of exploration and culinary indulgence here in the heart of Hornstrandir. We ventured into the breathtaking landscapes, challenged ourselves with a moderate hike, and savored the local flavors of Ísafjörður. It's days like these that remind me why I love sharing these experiences with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Our day began early, with a hearty breakfast at Thai Tawee in Ísafjörður. Who would have thought that one of the best Thai meals I've ever had would be in a remote Icelandic town? The reviews online don't lie; the place is known for its great service and friendly staff. I opted for the noodle soup, while Klara enjoyed the Pad Thai, and even Mateo devoured a plate of chicken. It was the perfect start to fuel our adventurous day.

With our bellies full, we set off for Stórurðarlundur. The drive itself was a treat, winding through dramatic fjords and past snow-capped mountains. I was a little concerned about the weather, as June in Hornstrandir can be unpredictable, with average temperatures hovering around 45°F (7°C) and a chance of rain. But, we were fortunate to have clear skies, although the air was crisp and cold. I made sure Mateo was bundled up, and we all wore our hiking boots, ready to tackle the moderate trail.

The hike to Stórurðarlundur was nothing short of magical. The landscape is surreal, with gigantic tuff rocks scattered across charming meadows and around attractive ponds. It felt like stepping into another world. The trail was moderately challenging, with some rocky sections and a bit of elevation gain, but Mateo, my little trooper, handled it like a champ, pointing out every little flower and interesting rock along the way. Klara, with her architect's eye, was fascinated by the geological formations and the way the landscape had been shaped by the Ice Age.

The best views come after the hardest climbs.

Stórurð, often called the Giant Boulders, is believed to have been created by a landslide at the end of the last Ice Age. The massive rocks were carried by a glacier snout to their present location, creating a unique and stunning scenery. The hike is about 14 km, with elevation ranging from 400 to 700 meters, depending on the route. As we walked, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the sheer power of nature and the incredible beauty it can create. I made sure to bring my camera to capture the vibrant mossy wetlands.


Discover the tranquility of Stórurðarlundur, a serene park in Ísafjörður, perfect for nature walks and family picnics amidst stunning Icelandic landscapes.

We spent a few hours exploring the area, marveling at the turquoise ponds and the deep green slopes. Mateo was particularly fascinated by the boulders, climbing on them like a little mountain goat. We took plenty of photos, trying to capture the essence of this extraordinary place. It’s hard to describe the landscape with words; you just have to come and see it for yourself.

After our hike, we were famished, and it was time for lunch. We headed to Faktorshus in Haestikaupstadur, a charming restaurant known for its locally sourced ingredients and traditional Icelandic dishes with a modern twist. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the staff greeted us with genuine Icelandic hospitality. I had heard that Faktorshus emphasizes sustainability practices, which is something I admire and appreciate.

I opted for the fresh seafood, while Klara chose one of the hearty lamb dishes. Mateo, of course, went for the fish and chips. The food was delicious, and the view of the surrounding landscape added to the overall experience. It was the perfect place to unwind after a day of hiking and soak in the essence of Ísafjörður. After lunch, we walked around the town and saw the 3D Crosswalk and Rainbow Path.

As evening approached, we decided to experience the local nightlife. We stopped by Verbudin, a cozy bar in Bolungarvík. It wasn's too far away, and the reviews made it sound too good to pass up. The bar is known for its cozy ambiance and friendly staff. It's a local gathering spot that embodies the heart of Bolungarvík. The theme of the pub is based on the history of Bolungarvík as a fishing village in the early 20th century. I sampled some local Icelandic brews while Klara enjoyed a glass of wine, and Mateo sipped on juice, enjoying the lively atmosphere. It was a great way to connect with the local culture and share stories with fellow travelers. Although Mateo would have loved to stay longer, it was time to go so that he would be well rested for tomorrow.

For dinner, we grabbed a quick and satisfying meal at Siver kebab in Ísafjörður. The aroma of grilled meats and spices filled the air, and the menu offered a diverse range of kebab options. We enjoyed our kebabs and took some back to our campsite for later. It was the perfect way to end our culinary journey for the day.

Back at our campsite, as the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the landscape, I reflected on the day. We had explored the rugged beauty of Stórurðarlundur, savored the local flavors of Ísafjörður, and experienced the warmth of Icelandic hospitality. It was a day filled with adventure, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

As I tucked Mateo into his sleeping bag, I couldn't help but feel grateful for these moments with my family. Disconnecting from the modern world and reconnecting with nature is what this trip is all about. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Drangajökull útsýnisstaður. I'm excited to see what adventures await us as we continue to explore the wild beauty of Hornstrandir.

Before drifting off to sleep, I checked my packing list and realized I forgot a portable solar charger, extra batteries for the camera, and a field guide to Icelandic birds. I'll have to make a stop at Gjafaland tomorrow to see if I can find what I need.

As I closed my eyes, I thought about a quote I once read:

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.

And today, we took many steps, exploring the wonders of Hornstrandir and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Until tomorrow!