Exploring the Untamed Wilderness of Iceland's Hornstrandir

Adieu, Hornstrandir!

As the final day of our adventure in Iceland's Hornstrandir Nature Reserve drew to a close, a bittersweet feeling washed over me. This remote corner of the world had captured my heart with its raw beauty and untamed spirit. It was a journey of discovery, both of the landscape and of ourselves, and I am eager to share the final chapter of our Icelandic saga.


Explore the breathtaking wilderness of Hornstrandir in Iceland's Westfjords, a natural paradise of dramatic cliffs and diverse wildlife.

The morning began with a hearty breakfast at Víkurskálin Bolungarvík. David and I enjoyed the cozy atmosphere, savoring the last tastes of Icelandic cuisine before our journey back to Reykjavik. The wind howled outside, a constant reminder of the wildness that defines this region. After our meal, we took a final stroll through the town, committing to memory the colorful buildings and the dramatic backdrop of the mountains meeting the sea. Bolungarvík, nestled in the Westfjords, felt like a world away from the bustling streets of Hong Kong where I spent my childhood. The tranquility here was a balm to the soul, a stark contrast to the city's constant energy.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Víkurskálin Bolungarvík, where local flavors meet stunning views in a cozy setting.

Our itinerary called for us to enjoy the beauty of Hornstrandir one last time. Though November isn't the ideal time to visit due to the limited ferry service and shorter visitor season, we were still able to appreciate the untouched beauty of the area. The landscape was a canvas of muted colors, the tundra dusted with early snow, and the sea a steely grey. We spent the morning hiking along the coastline, the wind whipping at our faces as we watched the waves crash against the shore. The solitude was profound, a welcome escape from the noise of everyday life. I find that as I get older, these moments of quiet contemplation become more and more precious. Perhaps it's a sign of aging, or perhaps it's simply a deeper appreciation for the simple things in life.

The beauty of a place lies not just in its physical attributes, but in the way it makes you feel.

For lunch, we stopped at Húsið in Ísafjörður. This charming spot, meaning The House, was a welcome respite from the cold. We warmed ourselves with bowls of their famous seafood soup, a creamy concoction filled with fresh fish and shrimp. It was the perfect comfort food on a chilly day. Húsið is more than just a restaurant; it's a community hub, a place where locals and travelers gather to share stories and enjoy good company. We chatted with a few locals, learning about their lives in this remote corner of the world. Their resilience and connection to the land were truly inspiring.


Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Húsið in Ísafjörður – where tradition meets breathtaking views.

As the afternoon wore on, we made our way to Logn, restaurant & bar for our final dinner in the Westfjords. Located in Hótel Ísafjörður, Logn offered a varied menu and a cozy atmosphere. We indulged in some traditional Icelandic fare, savoring the flavors of lamb and fresh seafood. The restaurant also boasted a happy hour with a fine selection of gin drinks, which David made sure to take full advantage of. It was a fitting end to our culinary journey through Iceland.


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

After dinner, we decided to check out Skútinn, a local bar known for its friendly atmosphere. Though Patreksfjörður is a bit of a drive from Ísafjörður, we were intrigued by the good reviews. Unfortunately, we realized I had mixed up Skútinn with another bar closer to us. Instead, we decided to stay at a closer bar called Skútinn in Ísafjörður. We enjoyed a couple of drinks, chatting with the locals and soaking in the lively ambiance. The owner was incredibly welcoming, making us feel like regulars even though it was our first time there. The bar had a great selection of local beers, and David particularly enjoyed trying some of the unique Icelandic brews. It was a fun and relaxed way to end our final night in the Westfjords.


Experience the charm of Skútinn, a cozy bar in Patreksfjörður, where local flavors and friendly vibes create the perfect retreat after exploring the Westfjords.

Reflecting on our time in Hornstrandir, I am struck by the profound sense of peace I found in this remote wilderness. The absence of crowds and the constant presence of nature allowed me to reconnect with myself in a way that is rare in our modern world. The landscape, though stark, was incredibly beautiful, and the wildlife encounters were truly special. Seeing the Arctic foxes roaming freely was a highlight of the trip, a reminder of the resilience and adaptability of life in even the harshest environments.

The weather in November certainly presented its challenges. The days were short, the temperatures were cold , and the wind was relentless. But these challenges only added to the adventure, testing our limits and forcing us to rely on each other. We learned to appreciate the small comforts, like a warm cup of tea or a cozy shelter from the wind. And we discovered a newfound respect for the power and beauty of nature.

As we prepare to leave Iceland, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences we have shared. This trip has been more than just a vacation; it has been a journey of discovery, a chance to reconnect with nature, and a reminder of the importance of slowing down and appreciating the simple things in life. I am grateful for the opportunity to have explored this incredible corner of the world with my husband, David, and I look forward to sharing more of our adventures with you in the future.

While our camping plans were thwarted by the weather, we found warmth and hospitality in the local establishments. It reminded me of the importance of being flexible and open to new experiences when traveling. Sometimes, the best memories are made when things don't go according to plan.

Hornstrandir has a special kind of magic, a raw and untamed beauty that stays with you long after you've left. It's a place where you can truly disconnect from the world and reconnect with yourself. And while I'm excited to return to the comforts of home, I know that a part of me will always remain in this wild and beautiful corner of Iceland.

As we head back to Reykjavik and prepare for our flight home, I can't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. We braved the elements, explored a remote wilderness, and created memories that will last a lifetime. And while I may have forgotten my solar charger and extra memory cards, I'm bringing home something far more valuable: a renewed appreciation for the beauty and resilience of the natural world.

We will be heading back to Reykjavik tomorrow, where we will catch our flight back to Canada. While this marks the end of our journey, the memories and experiences will undoubtedly last a lifetime. Until next time, Iceland!

It's been an unforgettable journey, and I can't wait to share more of our travel stories with you all soon!

Safe travels, everyone!