Exploring the Enchanting Fjords of Isafjordur with Friends

First Impressions of Ísafjörður

Hola a todos! After a long journey from Bielefeld, Germany, with a layover in Reykjavik, I finally arrived in Ísafjörður with my friends. The crisp December air and the promise of adventure filled me with excitement. I’ve always been drawn to places that feel untouched, and Ísafjörður, nestled in Iceland’s Westfjords, seemed like the perfect escape. The town is even more picturesque than I imagined, and I couldn't wait to start exploring.

The journey itself was quite something. The flight into Reykjavik was smooth, but the domestic flight to Ísafjörður was a bit bumpy – a small price to pay for the stunning views of Iceland's snow-dusted landscapes. Maximilian would have loved this, he is always so keen about the technicalities of these smaller planes. Elena, of course, was more interested in whether the plane had a movie screen! I made a mental note to bring them back here someday.

After landing, we checked into Hotel Isafjordur Horn, a cozy and welcoming place that will be our home for the next 13 days. The hotel has a ski access, which I am very excited to try out later on this trip. After dropping off our bags, it was time to dive right into our Ísafjörður adventure.


Experience comfort and adventure at Hotel Isafjordur Horn, the perfect base for exploring Isafjordur's stunning landscapes and activities.

Our first stop was Kaffihús Bakarans for breakfast. What a delightful way to start the day! The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong coffee filled the air. I ordered a traditional Icelandic pastry, a *snúður*, which was absolutely divine. It's a sweet, cinnamon-spiced treat that perfectly warmed me up from the inside out. My friends opted for some hearty sandwiches, and we all agreed that this little café was a gem. The perfect cozy start to a day of exploring. I made sure to take a photo to show Elena - she loves baking, and I thought she might like to try making *snúður* when I get back.


Discover the flavors of Iceland at Kaffihús Bakarans, where every bite tells a story of tradition and passion in baking.

Fueled up and ready to go, we headed towards the Flóðvarnarveggur, or the flood protection wall.

It's amazing how something built for protection can also offer such a unique perspective of a town.

These walls, built in response to devastating avalanches in the past, now serve as viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of Ísafjörður. As we walked along the top, the wind was biting, but the views were incredible. The town looked like a miniature village from up there, with colorful houses nestled against the backdrop of the fjord and snow-capped mountains. I could see the harbor bustling with activity, fishing boats bobbing gently in the water. It was a stark reminder of the forces of nature, but also a testament to the resilience of the community. I learned that these barriers were constructed after tragic events to protect the town, which made the experience even more poignant.


Discover the stunning beauty of Flóðvarnarveggur, a captivating natural attraction near Ísafjörður, showcasing Iceland's majestic landscapes and unique geological formations.

Next, we strolled towards the famous Rainbow Path. This vibrant street, painted in rainbow colors, leads to the Blue Church and adds a playful touch to the town. It was originally created to show support for the LGBTQ+ community, and it certainly brightened up our walk. I couldn't resist snapping a few photos, the colorful path against the backdrop of the mountains was simply stunning. I remember seeing a similar rainbow street in Seyðisfjörður a while back. It's heartwarming to see these small towns embracing diversity and creating such joyful spaces.


Discover the enchanting Rainbow Path in Ísafjörður, a vibrant tourist attraction showcasing the stunning natural beauty and culture of Iceland.

By lunchtime, our appetites were calling, and we made our way to Tjöruhúsið, a seafood restaurant known for its unique and delicious offerings. This place is legendary, and I had heard so much about it! Tjöruhúsið doesn't have a set menu; instead, they serve whatever the local fishermen catch that day. The atmosphere is cozy and communal, with long tables where you sit with other diners. We were seated next to a friendly couple from France, and we chatted about our travels while waiting for the food. The owner came out and introduced the fisherman who caught the food we were about to eat. It felt like such a personal and authentic experience.


Discover Tjöruhúsið in Ísafjörður - where fresh seafood meets Icelandic tradition in an unforgettable dining experience.

We started with a fish soup, rich with salmon, halibut and langoustine. It was creamy and flavorful. Then came the main course: an array of different fish dishes, from fried cod cheeks to creamy halibut. Each dish was unique and incredibly fresh. The flavors were outstanding, and I found myself wishing I had a bigger stomach! Coffee, tea, cookies, and chocolate were available to round out the meal. It was more than just a meal; it was an event. The price for the dinner was 9000 ISK, which is around $65 USD. Considering the unlimited buffet with some of the freshest seafood, it was worth it!

With our bellies full, we decided to explore Dokkan Brugghús, Ísafjörður’s first and only brewery. I am always excited to experience local flavors, and I was curious to see what Icelandic craft beer had to offer. The brewery itself is small and cozy, with a friendly atmosphere. We sampled a few of their beers, all made with pristine artesian spring water from the Westfjords mountains. I particularly enjoyed the Porra Puki, a brown ale with caramel notes. It was the perfect way to wind down after a day of exploring.


Discover the best of Icelandic craft beer and delicious local cuisine at Dokkan Brugghús in Ísafjörður.

For dinner, we chose Edinborg Bistro, a place recommended by several locals. Located in the Edinborg Cultural Centre, this bistro offers a taste of Icelandic food culture in a relaxed setting. I ordered the lamb soup, a hearty and flavorful dish that warmed me from the inside out. My friends tried the fish and chips, and the Arctic char, and everyone was pleased with their meals. The bistro had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed evening.


Discover Edinborg Bistro in Ísafjörður for an authentic taste of Icelandic cuisine amid stunning landscapes.

As the day came to a close, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible experience. Ísafjörður had already captured my heart with its stunning landscapes, colorful streets, and warm hospitality. I am also very excited about tomorrow's itinerary, which includes a visit to the Westfjord History Museum, Naustahvilft (The Troll Seat), and the Observation Deck.

Before heading back to the hotel, we took a final stroll through the town. The Christmas lights were twinkling, casting a magical glow on the snow-covered streets. It felt like stepping into a fairy tale. Despite forgetting my snow goggles and thermal socks, I felt incredibly content. I made a mental note to buy some tomorrow. As we walked, I couldn't help but think about how lucky I am to share these experiences with my friends. It's moments like these that make life so rich and meaningful.

Back at the hotel, I sat by the window, sipping a cup of hot tea and reflecting on the day. Ísafjörður had welcomed us with open arms, and I knew that this trip would be one for the books. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

Until then, *bless bless* from Ísafjörður!