A Solo Escape to Iceland's Hornstrandir Nature Reserve

A Day of Icelandic Wonders

The raw, untamed beauty of Iceland continues to captivate me. Today was a day of chasing waterfalls and standing in awe of glacial giants, a true feast for the senses in the heart of the Westfjords. It's days like these that remind me why I crave these solo adventures – the freedom to explore at my own pace, to linger longer at the spots that truly resonate, and to simply be present in the moment.

My day began, as it often does, with a hearty breakfast at Hamraborg ehf in Ísafjörður. There's something comforting about starting the day with familiar flavors, a sense of grounding before embarking on the unknown. Fuelled up and ready, I set off to explore the natural wonders that awaited me.

First on the agenda was Möngufoss, also known as Hlíðarhús, a waterfall tucked away in the Unadalur valley. The drive itself was a treat, winding through the rugged coastline, the sea a constant companion on my left. Autumn in Iceland paints the landscape in hues of gold and crimson, a stark contrast to the deep blues of the ocean and the crisp, clear sky. The air was bracing, carrying the scent of the sea and the promise of adventure.

Reaching the trailhead, I laced up my hiking boots, double-checking my backpack for essentials – water, a snack, and of course, my camera. The hike to Möngufoss is about 5 kilometers. As I walked, the silence was broken only by the occasional call of a bird and the crunch of my boots on the rocky path. The terrain was rugged, but the anticipation of seeing the waterfall kept me going. I was so glad I remembered my hiking boots. I'm really trying to be more prepared on this trip, especially since I forgot my insect repellent and extra batteries.

Finally, after about an hour and a half, I caught my first glimpse of Möngufoss. The waterfall cascaded down the rocky cliffs, a ribbon of white against the dark stone. The power of the water was mesmerizing, the sound a constant roar that filled the valley. I spent a good while simply sitting on a rock, watching the water plunge into the pool below, feeling the spray on my face. It was a moment of pure serenity, a chance to connect with nature and to lose myself in its beauty.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Möngufoss waterfall in Unadhsdalur, Iceland, where nature's tranquility meets stunning landscapes.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found not in grand gestures, but in the quiet moments of connection with the natural world.

After soaking in the beauty of Möngufoss, I made my way back to Ísafjörður for a quick lunch. I grabbed a bite at Thai Tawee, a cozy spot offering a unique blend of Thai cuisine with local Icelandic ingredients. It was an unexpected but welcome change of pace, a burst of flavors that energized me for the afternoon's adventure: Drangajökull.

Drangajökull, Iceland’s northernmost glacier, was my next destination. Driving towards it, the landscape transformed once again, becoming more stark and dramatic. The glacier loomed in the distance, a vast expanse of ice and snow against the horizon. It’s the only glacier in the Westfjords and the only one in Iceland whose altitude lies completely below 1,000 meters. What's even more remarkable is that Drangajökull hasn't decreased in size like many other glaciers in Iceland.


Explore Drangajökull Glacier, the northernmost glacier in Iceland, where stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures await amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

While I couldn’t hike directly onto the glacier without a guide, I found a vantage point that offered breathtaking views. The sheer scale of the ice cap was humbling, a reminder of the immense power of nature. The wind whipped around me, carrying the chill of the glacier, and I felt a sense of awe and respect for this icy giant.

Standing there, gazing at Drangajökull, I couldn't help but reflect on the resilience of nature, and perhaps, a little bit of my own. Like this glacier that has defied the odds, I, too, have weathered my share of storms. It's these moments of solitude, surrounded by such raw beauty, that allow me to find strength and clarity.

Before heading back to my campsite, I decided to treat myself to dinner at Restaurant Galdur - Seafood Restaurant. After a day of hiking and glacier gazing, I wanted to enjoy some fresh, local seafood. The meal was delicious, a perfect end to a perfect day.

Back in Ísafjörður, I took some time to explore the town. I stumbled upon Karitas, a unique clothing store that showcases locally crafted clothing. I couldn't resist popping in to browse their collection. It’s wonderful to see local artisans getting recognition. Supporting local businesses is important, especially in these remote communities.

As I write this, nestled in my tent, the wind howling outside, I feel a deep sense of contentment. Today was a reminder of the simple joys of travel: the beauty of nature, the thrill of exploration, and the quiet moments of self-reflection. I'm grateful for these experiences, for the chance to disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with myself.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore Djúpavík and Stórurðarlundur. Djúpavík is known for its abandoned herring factory, a haunting reminder of Iceland's industrial past. Stórurðarlundur, on the other hand, is a natural oasis, a valley filled with stunning rock formations and turquoise pools. It promises to be another day of contrasts, of history and natural beauty. I might even treat myself to a drink at Skútinn, a local bar.

For now, though, I'll close my eyes, listen to the wind, and dream of glaciers and waterfalls. Goodnight from Iceland.