Exploring the Enchanting Fjords of Isafjordur with Friends

Finding Peace and Remembrance in Ísafjörður

Today was a day of contrasts – from the serene beauty of a secluded beach to the poignant reminders of lives shaped by the sea. It’s amazing how a single day can encompass so much, leaving you feeling both refreshed and deeply reflective. It was also a day where I got to indulge in some of Iceland's best food and beer with my friends.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Hótel Ísafjörður, where we fueled up for the adventures ahead. The spread was fantastic, offering everything from traditional Icelandic skyr to freshly baked bread. After breakfast, we decided to explore Minnibakki Beach.


Experience the serene beauty of Minnibakki Beach, an Icelandic coastal gem perfect for relaxation and nature exploration.

The drive to Minnibakki Beach was an experience in itself. The road wound through valleys blanketed in snow, with towering mountains on either side. It felt like we were driving through a postcard. I was so glad I remembered to charge my camera, as I took a lot of photos along the way. When we finally arrived at Minnibakki Beach, I was immediately struck by its secluded and peaceful atmosphere. The beach was nestled at the end of a gravel road, with black sand stretching out to meet the icy waters of the fjord. The waves gently lapped against the shore, creating a soothing soundtrack to our visit.

The beach was framed by dramatic cliffs and lush green surroundings, providing a picturesque backdrop for relaxation or exploration. I was so glad that I had packed my hiking boots, as I was able to explore the rocky areas around the beach. Maximilian and I walked hand in hand along the shore, enjoying the crisp, clean air and the stunning views. The fresh ocean air was invigorating. I've always found the sound of waves to be incredibly calming, and today was no exception. It was easy to see why this place is described as a tranquil haven.

The sea lives in every one of us.

One of the most charming aspects of Minnibakki Beach was the wildlife. We spotted several species of birds, including the iconic puffins. Although I had forgotten my snow goggles, I was still able to enjoy the views of the birds. As we wandered along the beach, we also saw some friendly Icelandic sheep grazing in the nearby pastures. They added a touch of local character to the already enchanting scene. I couldn't resist taking a few photos of them, their woolly coats contrasting against the stark landscape. Elena would have loved this, but I am sure I will be back with her here.

After spending a couple of hours at Minnibakki Beach, soaking in the natural beauty, we drove back to Ísafjörður for lunch at Logn, restaurant & bar.


Savor exquisite local cuisine with breathtaking views at Logn Restaurant & Bar in Ísafjörður.

I had heard great things about this place, and it did not disappoint. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, perfect for warming up after our chilly beach adventure. Logn is located on the ground floor of Hótel Ísafjörður, which made it very convenient for us.

For lunch, I opted for the seafood soup, which was rich and flavorful. Maximilian chose the Arctic char, which he said was cooked to perfection. We also shared a plate of Icelandic cheeses, which were a delicious introduction to local flavors. Logn also has a happy hour every day from 4pm to 6pm. Logn offers a varied menu, a good selection of wine, cocktails, and interesting gin drinks.

After lunch, we visited the Fishermen's Monument.


Discover the Fishermen's Monument in Ísafjörður, a breathtaking tribute to Iceland's fishing heritage surrounded by stunning fjords and rich history.

The Fishermen's Monument is a striking tribute that celebrates the resilient spirit of the local fishing community. As we approached the monument, I was moved by the beautifully crafted installation that pays homage to the fishermen who have dedicated their lives to the sea. The monument not only reflects the craftsmanship of Icelandic artists but also evokes a sense of pride and remembrance for those who contributed to the town's history and economy through fishing. The backdrop of dramatic fjords and the North Atlantic Ocean creates an ideal spot for photography, allowing tourists to capture the essence of Ísafjörður’s maritime heritage.

The sculpture, created by Ragnar Kjartansson, depicts two fishermen with their nets. It serves as a reminder of the dangers these brave men face and the sacrifices they make to provide for their families. I took a moment to reflect on the stories behind the monument and the lives of the fishermen it commemorates. The local community often engages in storytelling, sharing anecdotes that bring the monument’s significance to life.

The monument is located near the waterfront, where we could see fishing boats in action. It was a poignant reminder of the town's deep connection to the sea. The Fishermen's Monument is not just a landmark; it is a celebration of the past, present, and future of Ísafjörður’s fishing heritage.

In the evening, we decided to visit Dokkan Brugghús, a local brewery that I had been eager to try.


Experience Iceland's finest craft beers and delicious local cuisine at Dokkan Brugghús in Ísafjörður – where every sip tells a story.

Dokkan Brugghús is the first craft beer brewery in the Westfjords. The brewery was founded in October 2017 and is a small family business. The brewery is conveniently located just a stone's throw away from the Ísafjörður cruise pier, making it an ideal excursion for cruise passengers.

The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, with locals and tourists alike enjoying the craft beers on tap. I ordered a flight of their signature brews, each one unique and flavorful. The beers are made from pristine artesian spring water sourced from the remote mountains of the Westfjords. The water is naturally filtered through a 14-million-year-old volcanic lava pile, which gives the beers a unique and refreshing taste. Maximilian, being the beer aficionado, was in his element, chatting with the bartender about the brewing process. We even sampled some local delicacies, including lamb jerky and traditional Icelandic dried fish jerky, which paired perfectly with the beers.

Dokkan Brugghús also offers a behind-the-scenes brewery tour, where you can gain exclusive access to the brewing area and learn about the intricate brewing process. You can also learn about the fascinating history of beer in Iceland, a country that only legalized beer in 1989. They have a wide variety of beers, and I was able to purchase my favorite beers from the tasting session directly at the brewery.

As we sipped our beers, we reflected on the day's adventures. From the serene beauty of Minnibakki Beach to the poignant reminders at the Fishermen's Monument, it had been a day of contrasts. But it was these contrasts that made it so memorable, reminding me of the beauty and resilience of this incredible place. We ended our evening at Dokkan Brugghús, enjoying the lively atmosphere and the delicious craft beers.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Stórurðarlundur and Hafnir Ísafjarðarbæjar, and I’m excited to see what new adventures await us. Before that, we are planning to have breakfast at Kaffihús Bakarans. I am curious to see what new experiences and sights await us in this enchanting corner of the world. I am also planning to buy gifts at The Fjord Hub.

Good night from Ísafjörður!