Yesterday our group had the awesome opportunity to trek eight miles through the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, a remote area in the Westfjords considered the last true wilderness of Europe! We went into this hike very excited but nervous. For most of us, this would be the biggest hike we’ve ever done. We were prepared with food and water, various layers for the unpredictable weather, and accompanied by two excellent local guides. We knew it would be challenging but we were up for it.

The region is only accessible by water, so we first took a boat from our home base in Ísafjörður to the almost-abandoned village of Sæból to begin the hike. On the boat ride, we enjoyed endless views of fjords, mountains, gliding birds, and above all, the striking Drangajökull glacier. Upon arriving, we were immediately struck by the beauty of this protected region, as we were surrounded by endless purple and yellow wildflowers, rushing streams, and green mountains. The flora and fauna are some of the most remarkable in all of Iceland, so our guides pointed out various birds and plants as we walked.

As we ascended through the valley the fjord shrank into the distance behind us. Soon, the landscape changed and we crossed a mountaintop of rocks and mossy waterfalls. Finally, we made it to the very top, where we celebrated our climb with a delicious lunch and panoramic views. The long descent included a creek crossing where we had to remove our shoes and wade across.

The end of the hike followed the coastline to the historic town of Hesteryi, and the combination of black sand, blue water, and the majestic Drangajökull glacier is not a sight we will ever forget. We celebrated our success and rested our feet in a cafe that we couldn’t believe to exist in such a remote place. Over hot chocolate we all shared our excitement and best moments from the hike. Then we boarded our boat and returned to town for a well-deserved pizza dinner.

— Ansley & Jesse