Exploring the Wild Beauty of Hornstrandir with Family

Westfjords Welcome: The Start of Our Hornstrandir Adventure

After months of planning and anticipation, our family adventure to Iceland's remote Hornstrandir Nature Reserve has finally begun. The journey here was long, with flights from Berlin to Reykjavík and then a smaller domestic flight to Ísafjörður. But as I always tell Klara and Mateo, the best experiences often require a bit of effort. Today was all about settling in, soaking up the atmosphere of Ísafjörður, and preparing for our immersion into the wild.

Our day started with a hearty breakfast at Kaffi Norðurfjörður. It's a charming spot, the kind of place where you instantly feel at home. The coffee was strong, just the way I like it, and the pastries were delicious. Mateo, of course, was thrilled with his chocolate croissant. Fuelled up, we were ready to explore Ísafjörður. The town itself is nestled amidst stunning fjords and mountains, offering a taste of the dramatic landscapes to come. Even though I grew up surrounded by the beauty of Los Ángeles, Chile, I'm constantly amazed by the unique landscapes our planet offers.

We wandered through the town, taking in the colorful buildings and the bustling harbor. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of the sea. I made sure to take plenty of photos; after all, these are the moments we'll cherish forever. Klara, ever the architect, was fascinated by the traditional Icelandic architecture, pointing out the unique features and sustainable design elements. Mateo, on the other hand, was more interested in chasing the seagulls and peering into the fishing boats.

For lunch, we decided to try Tjöruhúsið, a restaurant renowned for its fresh seafood. And what an experience it was! The restaurant has a rustic, almost medieval tavern-like feel, housed in a building that once served as a tar factory back in 1781. The animated atmosphere, with staff enthusiastically presenting pans of sizzling fish, only added to the charm. We opted for the 'eat-till-you-drop' style buffet, and it was worth every penny. The fish was incredibly fresh, cooked in various ways, each dish more flavorful than the last. Even Mateo, who can be a picky eater, enjoyed the haddock cooked in butter with baby potatoes. Klara was particularly impressed with the variety of plant-based side dishes available, like risotto and red beet salad, ensuring there was something for everyone. I was so impressed by the restaurant that I made a mental note to see if I could incorporate a feature about it in my tourism app.

The journey to a remote destination is as rewarding as the destination itself.

After such a fulfilling lunch, we spent some time at Rammagerð Ísafjarðar, a local shop known for its handcrafted goods. I always make it a point to support local artisans, and this shop was a treasure trove of unique items. Klara found a beautiful hand-knitted scarf, perfect for the chilly Icelandic evenings. Mateo was captivated by the elf and goblin figurines, while I was drawn to the glassware. We picked up a few souvenirs, reminders of our time in Ísafjörður and the beginning of our Hornstrandir adventure. I was a little concerned after reading some online reviews that the owner might be rude or overcharge tourists, but we had a pleasant experience. The shop was indeed filled with charming and quirky objects, and the woman working there was friendly and helpful, patiently answering Mateo's endless questions about Icelandic folklore.

As the day drew to a close, we had dinner at Logn, restaurant & bar. It was the perfect way to wind down after a busy day of exploring. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was relaxed and inviting. From our table, we had a stunning view of the fjord, the water shimmering in the evening light. We talked about our plans for the coming days, the excitement building with each passing moment. I took advantage of the free Wi-Fi to upload some photos to my blog and share our experiences with my readers.

Now, as I sit here in our cozy accommodation, reflecting on the day, I can't help but feel grateful. Grateful for the opportunity to share this adventure with my family, grateful for the chance to experience the raw beauty of Iceland, and grateful for the memories we're creating along the way. Tomorrow, we set off to Drangajökull glacier and Krossneslaug, and I can’t wait to see what adventures await us. I've heard that the views from Krossneslaug are particularly stunning, and I'm looking forward to relaxing in the geothermal pool after a day of exploring. We'll also be stopping by Dokkan Brugghús, a local brewery, to sample some Icelandic craft beer. It's going to be another incredible day, I can feel it.

I'm particularly glad that we remembered to pack our hiking boots and warm clothing, essentials for exploring Hornstrandir in June. However, I'm kicking myself for forgetting the portable solar charger. It would have been incredibly useful for keeping our devices powered up during our camping trip. I'm also regretting not bringing extra batteries for the camera and a field guide to Icelandic birds. These are definitely items I'll add to my essential packing list for future adventures.

One thing I've learned from my travels is that it's the unexpected moments that often become the most cherished memories. Today was filled with such moments, from Mateo's fascination with the seagulls to Klara's appreciation of the Icelandic architecture. These are the details that make a trip truly special, the moments that stay with you long after you've returned home.

As I prepare for tomorrow's adventures, I'm filled with a sense of excitement and anticipation. Hornstrandir is calling, and I can't wait to answer. I'm looking forward to sharing our experiences with you, my readers, and hopefully inspiring you to embark on your own adventures. Stay tuned for more tales from the wild, as we continue our journey through Iceland's untouched wilderness.

Good night from Ísafjörður!


Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife of Hornstrandir, a hidden gem in Iceland's Westfjords, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Kaffi Norðurfjörður with stunning fjord views and warm hospitality.


Discover authentic Icelandic seafood at Tjöruhúsið in Ísafjörður—where every dish tells a story from the sea.


Explore Rammagerð Ísafjarðar: A treasure trove of unique Icelandic gifts, handcrafted art, and seasonal delights that reflect the local culture.


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