There is a den in the adjacent valley to our lodge. They sometimes breed a litter of playful cubs which have called the valley their home for decades. We can pretty much guarantee that you see foxes but the cubs are not there every year. Utilise the midnight sun and capture the perfect photos during the golden hours of light.
My partner and I did the 2 night Midnight Sun and Arctic Foxes tour to Hornstrandir, and it was one of the best experiences we've ever had. We were very lucky with the weather - so fickle in Iceland - so had two great hikes, foraging berries and spotting Icelandic flora, enjoying the views of the fjord, glacier, and waterfalls. We also had a great kayak trip accompanied by a seal, with whales nearby. Our main aim was to see arctic foxes and we were not disappointed - they played near the house much of the time and were so close! We went in September so didn't see the midnight sun but got the northern lights instead.
Kvíar Lodge is an old farmhouse in the Hornstrandir nature reserve. When people abandoned the area in 1948 with their livestock, arctic foxes became the only remaining land mammals. For 65 years they have roamed the fjords and bays, free from human disturbance, making them rather tame and playful. Kvíar is the only house for many kilometers, reachable only by boat. During the summer, we welcome guests to spend a night in the historical house and enjoy the beautiful surroundings, where nature has ruled for 65 years.
It’s a unique opportunity to visit Hornstrandir in a relatively short time frame, experience the midnight sun, learn about and feel the history of the area and see Arctic Foxes in their natural environment.
We respect the Arctic Foxes and realize that summer is their breeding time. Therefore, we walk carefully, keep our distance and follow guidelines and rules given by wildlife specialists.
This trip is very flexible and we have various activities available. The hiking in the mountains surrounding the farmhouse is spectacular, with panoramic views guaranteed. We also have kayaks available, and a guided kayak tour is a great way to explore the untouched coastline of this remote area. However, if you prefer to curl up in the long grass with a great book while keeping an eye out for the foxes, then that is fine too!
Included:
Not included:
Difficulty: Moderate.
Day 1
We meet at our office in Aðalstræti 17 (downtown main street) at 8am for a briefing, where we will answer any questions and make final preparations. We depart from the harbour in Ísafjörður on our passenger ferry at 9am and sail to the head of Veiðileysufjörður Fjord where we´ll be dropped off. En route there is a very good chance that we’ll see humpback whales, puffins and other sea birds. Our extra luggage will be delivered to Kvíar.
After a short briefing about the history of Hornstrandir, we start our beautiful hike up the valley en route to our renovated farmhouse in Kvíar. The hike gives us a great chance to experience the lush landscape of the lowlands and the barren terrain and lakes higher up, once carved out by glaciers.
The views get better and better as we make our way up to the mountain ridges above the fjords. When we reach our high point, we slowly start our descent down the valley floor of Kvíadalur, mainly following the river and enjoy the lakes and waterfalls along the way. After a couple of hours, the house in Kvíar appears in its beautiful setting just above the beach.
We enjoy a relaxing evening with a nice home cooked meal and the wood heated sauna!
Day 2
After a hearty breakfast, we will head out for an adventure in the surrounding mountains and fjords. We normally split the day into a good hike in the morning and a sea kayaking tour into Lónafjörður fjord in the afternoon.
We will take a short walk up the valley to the mountains edge where we get a panoramic view over the magnificent Lónafjörður fjord. While keeping a close lookout for Arctic Foxes, guests can enjoy the rich birdlife around the area; from common species such as eider ducks, swans, oystercatchers and snipes to more rare birds, such as the white-tailed eagle.
After lunch, we head to the shore where we can try our skills on the water, if conditions are good. Sea kayaking is very easy and we use stable and seaworthy kayaks for a comfortable paddle. Back to Kvíar for a nice dinner and another session in the sauna.
The plan is very flexible. We can do a full day of hiking or a full day of kayaking if you would prefer. Please tell us what you’d like to do!
Day 3
On the last day, we can take a ride on our RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat). This is a small speedboat which we can use to explore the surrounding fjords. It is a great way to visit secluded spots further away from Kvíar. It’s really nice to pack a picnic and head to a beautiful spot, turn the engine off and keep an eye out for the curious seals which populate our shores.
We then head back to Kvíar and await the passenger ferry which will transport us back to Ísafjörður. The boat arrives around 5-6pm. We arrive back in town at approximately 6-7pm.
Please note that sometimes the RIB may not always be available.
This itinerary is a guide only and is subject to change depending on the weather, sea conditions and the ability of the group.
Rights & Acknowledgments
Skútusiglingar ehf | Aðalstræti 17 | 400 Ísafjörður | Kt. 530306-1510 | VAT Number: 110291
