Exploring the Wild Beauty of Hornstrandir with Family

A Day of Discoveries in the Westfjords

Today was a day of contrasts, from the stark beauty of Iceland's glacial landscapes to the cozy charm of its local towns. We ventured out to experience the Westfjords in all its glory, and it certainly didn't disappoint. It's amazing how much you can pack into a single day when you're driven by curiosity and a love for exploration.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Restaurant Dunhagi in Tálknafjörður. Klara had read some great reviews, and we were eager to try it out. The cafe was incredibly cozy, with a warm, inviting atmosphere that made us feel right at home. The owner, Dagný, was so friendly and welcoming, it felt like we were visiting an old friend. I opted for the traditional Icelandic lamb, while Klara chose the fresh local fish. Mateo, of course, went for the pancakes, which disappeared in record time. It's moments like these, sharing a delicious meal in a charming setting, that make our family trips so special.


Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Cafe Restaurant Dunhagi in Tálknafjörður - where every dish tells a story.

The beauty of a place is not just in what you see, but in how it makes you feel.

After breakfast, we set off towards Drangajökull útsýnisstaður, a viewpoint offering stunning views of the northernmost glacier in Iceland. The drive itself was an adventure, with winding roads and breathtaking scenery at every turn. The landscape was rugged and raw, a testament to the power of nature. As we approached the viewpoint, the glacier came into view, a shimmering expanse of ice in the distance. Even in June, the air had a crisp coolness that hinted at the icy giant nearby. Mateo was fascinated, asking endless questions about how glaciers are formed and whether there were any polar bears in Iceland (thankfully, no!).


Discover breathtaking views at Drangajökull Observation Deck, a serene escape in Iceland's stunning Westfjords, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

Standing there, gazing at Drangajökull, I felt a sense of awe and humility. It's a reminder of the immense forces that shape our planet and the importance of preserving its natural wonders. I took some photos, trying to capture the scene's grandeur, but no image could truly do it justice. You have to experience it firsthand to understand the sheer scale and beauty.

For lunch, we stopped at Stúkuhúsið in Patreksfjörður, another highly recommended spot. This place had a unique charm, a blend of rustic and modern that I found appealing. The staff was incredibly friendly, and the service was prompt. Klara and I decided to try some traditional Icelandic dishes, while Mateo stuck with his usual—fish and chips. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was relaxed and inviting. It was the perfect place to recharge after our glacial adventure.


Discover the rich flavors of traditional Icelandic cuisine at Stúkuhúsið in Patreksfjörður - where every dish tells a story.

After lunch, we decided to do some souvenir shopping in Ísafjörður. We visited Gjafaland, a charming shop specializing in handmade goods and unique gifts. It was a treasure trove of Icelandic craftsmanship, from traditional wool items to intricately crafted jewelry. Klara was particularly drawn to the wool sweaters, while Mateo was fascinated by the Viking figurines. I found a beautiful hand-carved wooden bowl that I knew would look perfect in our home in Potsdam. The shop assistant was very helpful and gave us some great tips on local artisans and traditional techniques. It's always a pleasure to support local businesses and take home a piece of the culture.


Explore Gjafaland, Ísafjörður's premier souvenir store for unique Icelandic gifts and wedding memorabilia, capturing the essence of your travels.

As the day drew to a close, we headed to Logn, restaurant & bar for dinner. This restaurant, located in Hótel Ísafjörður, specializes in local cuisine, and we were eager to try it out. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, and the staff was attentive and friendly. We started with some delicious appetizers, followed by the main courses. I opted for the Arctic char, while Klara chose the lamb shank. Mateo, of course, went for the burger. The food was excellent, and we thoroughly enjoyed our meal.


Experience authentic Icelandic flavors at Logn in Ísafjörður – where fresh local ingredients meet warm hospitality.

Tomorrow, we plan to fully immerse ourselves in the wonders of Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, a place I've been eagerly anticipating since we began planning this trip. We'll be having breakfast at Húsið, lunch at Edinborg Bistro, and dinner at Einarshusid. I'm particularly excited about exploring the remote landscapes and observing the unique wildlife of the region. I'm also planning to visit the local bar to relax and unwind after a day of hiking and exploration. I'm hoping to capture some amazing photos and create lasting memories with my family.

As I reflect on today's experiences, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to explore this incredible country with my family. Iceland has a way of captivating your senses and leaving you in awe of its natural beauty. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings and to continue sharing our adventures with you all.

Back at our campsite, Mateo is already fast asleep, dreaming of glaciers and Arctic foxes. Klara and I are sitting by the campfire, sipping hot chocolate and reminiscing about the day. The crackling fire, the starry sky, and the peaceful silence of the Westfjords—it's moments like these that make all the planning and preparation worthwhile. I feel incredibly lucky to share these experiences with my family and to create memories that will last a lifetime. Before drifting off to sleep myself, I make a mental note to buy extra batteries for my camera tomorrow, remembering that I had forgotten to pack them. It's the little things that can make a big difference when you're trying to capture the perfect shot.

Goodnight from the Westfjords!