Exploring the Wild Beauty of Hornstrandir with Family

Homeward Bound, Hearts Full

As our adventure in the remote Hornstrandir Nature Reserve draws to a close, a bittersweet feeling washes over me. Iceland, with its dramatic landscapes and serene wilderness, has captured a piece of my heart. I’m sitting here, penning down our final day's experiences, with Klara and Mateo already fast asleep, dreaming of Arctic foxes and endless horizons. It’s been an incredible journey, one that has tested our limits, strengthened our bonds, and filled our souls with the raw beauty of nature.

Today started with a hearty breakfast at Café Riis Hólmavík - Restaurant - Pizzeria & Bar. The charming restaurant, pizzeria, and bar, situated in one of Hólmavík's oldest houses, was the perfect spot to fuel up for our journey home. We enjoyed Icelandic staples, made with fresh, local ingredients. Mateo devoured his pizza, while Klara and I savored the traditional Icelandic dishes. The warm and friendly atmosphere of Café Riis made us feel right at home, and we were grateful for the attentive service provided by the owner and his family.


Discover delicious pizzas and authentic Icelandic cuisine at Café Riis Hólmavík - the perfect stop for tourists seeking culinary delights.

After breakfast, we made our way to Restaurant Galdur - Seafood Restaurant. This cozy seafood restaurant is renowned for its fresh catches and local ingredients. We indulged in a variety of seafood options, savoring the flavors of Iceland's coastal cuisine. The fish soup was a particular hit, even Mateo, who isn't the biggest fan of fish, couldn't get enough of it. The staff was incredibly welcoming, making our dining experience even more enjoyable.


Experience fresh Icelandic seafood at Restaurant Galdur in Hólmavík - where taste meets tradition amidst breathtaking scenery.

The journey may be ending, but the memories will last a lifetime.

Our next stop was Kertahúsið Candle House in Ísafjörður. This enchanting gift shop is renowned for its stunning collection of handmade candles that showcase the artistry and creativity of Icelandic artisans. We spent a good hour browsing through the unique designs, each reflecting the natural beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Mateo was fascinated by the candle-making process, and we even considered participating in one of their workshops. In the end, we purchased a few candles as souvenirs, each one a reminder of our incredible journey through Iceland.


Explore Kertahúsið Candle House in Ísafjörður for handcrafted candles and unique Icelandic gifts that embody the spirit of your travels.

As the day progressed, we found ourselves at Kvítár Lodge, a remote haven accessible only by boat from Ísafjörður. Nestled within the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, the lodge overlooks Jökulfirðir Bay, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness. Although our stay was brief, we were captivated by the lodge's serene ambiance and its harmonious integration with the natural environment. The lodge has just six rooms which are serviced with one shared shower room and separate toilet. A chef also lives at the property whenever guests are staying and cooks some excellent food depsite the remoteness of the lodge.


Experience the tranquility of Kviar Lodge in Iceland, where stunning nature meets comfort for an unforgettable escape.

For our final dinner in Iceland, we chose Jötunn restaurant in Ísafjörður. This culinary gem is known for its exquisite dining experience, celebrating the rich flavors of Icelandic cuisine. The warm and inviting atmosphere, coupled with the restaurant's commitment to using locally sourced ingredients, made for a truly memorable meal. We savored dishes that highlighted the natural flavors of Iceland, from succulent lamb to the freshest seafood, all prepared with meticulous care and creativity.


Discover Jötunn Restaurant: A must-visit culinary destination in Ísafjörður offering exquisite Icelandic-style sushi amidst stunning landscapes.

Reflecting on our eight-day adventure, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences we've shared as a family. From the rugged landscapes of Hornstrandir to the charming towns and culinary delights we encountered along the way, Iceland has left an indelible mark on our hearts. I am particularly proud of Mateo, who embraced the challenges of the wilderness with enthusiasm and curiosity. He has learned so much about nature, sustainability, and the importance of disconnecting from the modern world.

Of course, no trip is without its minor hiccups. I still regret forgetting the portable solar charger and the extra batteries for my camera. The field guide to Icelandic birds would have also been a valuable addition to our gear. But these are minor details in the grand scheme of things. What matters most is the memories we've created and the lessons we've learned.

I am also deeply grateful for Klara's unwavering support and adventurous spirit. Her expertise in sustainable living has been invaluable, and her passion for architecture has added another layer of appreciation to our exploration of Iceland's cultural heritage. Together, we have navigated the challenges of camping in the wilderness, hiking through rugged terrain, and adapting to the unpredictable Icelandic weather.

As I prepare to bid farewell to Iceland, I am already dreaming of our next family adventure. Perhaps we'll explore the rainforests of Costa Rica or the ancient ruins of Peru. Wherever we go, I know that our experiences in Hornstrandir will continue to inspire us to seek out authentic cultural experiences and embrace the beauty of the natural world.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back to Potsdam, filled with stories to tell and memories to cherish. I can't wait to share our adventures with friends and family, and to relive the magic of Iceland through my blog posts and photographs. Until then, takk fyrir, Iceland. You have been an incredible host, and we will never forget our time in your breathtaking wilderness. I am already looking forward to the day when we can return and explore more of your hidden gems.

This trip has reinforced my belief in the power of travel to transform and enrich our lives. It has reminded me of the importance of disconnecting from technology and reconnecting with nature. It has taught me the value of simplicity, resilience, and the ability to adapt to unexpected challenges. And most importantly, it has shown me the strength of our family bond and the joy of sharing unforgettable experiences together.

As a mobile app developer specializing in tourism apps, I am constantly seeking ways to enhance the travel experience through technology. But this trip has reminded me that the most valuable travel experiences are often the ones that are unplanned, unexpected, and deeply personal. It is the moments of quiet contemplation, the spontaneous encounters with wildlife, and the shared laughter around the campfire that truly make a journey memorable.

I am also inspired to incorporate more sustainable practices into my own life and to encourage others to do the same. From reducing our carbon footprint to supporting local businesses, there are many small steps we can take to minimize our impact on the environment and contribute to the well-being of the communities we visit. I believe that responsible travel is not just a trend, but a necessity for preserving the beauty of our planet for future generations.

As I close this chapter of our Icelandic adventure, I am filled with a sense of gratitude, inspiration, and a renewed commitment to exploring the world with my family, one sustainable and culturally rich experience at a time. Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey. I hope that our experiences have inspired you to embark on your own adventures and to discover the magic that awaits in the remote corners of our planet.

And with that, it's time to say goodnight from Iceland. Tomorrow, Germany awaits, but the memories of Hornstrandir will forever remain etched in our hearts.

Safe travels, everyone!