Hornstrandir Nature Reserve

"Hornstrandir Nature Reserve is a pristine wilderness located in the northwest region of Iceland. It is a remote and isolated area, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience untouched nature at its finest. The reserve covers approximately 580 square kilometers (224 square miles) and is known for its rugged and dramatic landscapes, with towering cliffs, deep fjords, and vast open plateaus. Hornstrandir is characterized by its abundant wildlife and diverse ecosystem. The reserve is home to a variety of bird species, including puffins, arctic terns, and guillemots. Visitors may also spot seals lounging on the shores or swimming in the surrounding waters. The reserve's waters are frequented by whales, including humpback whales and orcas, making it a popular spot for whale watching. One of the remarkable features of Hornstrandir is its lack of permanent human habitation. The area was once inhabited by small farming and fishing communities, but they were gradually abandoned in the mid-20th century, leaving the land untouched by modern development. This has allowed the natural environment to thrive and remain unspoiled. Hiking is a popular activity in Hornstrandir, with numerous trails winding through the rugged terrain. The reserve offers stunning vistas and opportunities for solitude, as well as a chance to explore unique flora and fauna. Visitors should be prepared for challenging and remote hiking conditions, as services and facilities are limited in the area. Due to its remote location and limited accessibility, visiting Hornstrandir requires careful planning. The reserve is only accessible by boat, with departures available from Ísafjörður, the largest town in the Westfjords region. Visitors are advised to bring all necessary supplies, including food, camping equipment, and appropriate clothing for the unpredictable weather conditions. Hornstrandir Nature Reserve is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in Iceland. Its untouched landscapes, abundant wildlife, and sense of isolation make it a truly special place for those seeking a genuine wilderness adventure. "

"If you love hiking, Hornstrandir is the place to go. One of Europe’s last wilderness, Hornstrandir is uninhabited since 1952. There are a few summer houses left. This is the only place in Iceland where the Arctic fox is protected from hunting. To go there, you need to take a boat from Ísafjörður. It is quite expensive but really worth it. You can decide to go on our own or with a guided tour (with the companies WestTours or BoreaAdventures). Borea does multi days hikes while WestTours does one-day hikes. The most beautiful hike is probably the impressive vertical cliffs of Hornbjarg, where thousands of birds nest in the summer. Hornstrandir is only accessible in the summer for hiking, but you can there in the winter to ski. In the summer I am a hiking guide there so feel free to contact me for more information :)"

"Hornstrandir can be accessed by boat from the town of Isafjordur. Two bird cliffs, Hornbjarg and Hælavíkurbjarg, are located by Hornvík in the Hornstrandir nature reserve. Hornbjarg is a towering cliff rising to 534 meters above sea level, and Hælavíkurbjarg is slightly smaller but equally impressive."