Hornstrandir Nature Reserve

Hornstrandir Nature Reserve

Hornstrandir Nature Reserve was established in 1975 and occupies the wilderness between the Hrafnsfjörður and Furufjörður fjords. World War II forced the abandonment of the farmland here, which was mostly privately owned. The people who lived here previously made a living through farming, fishing, and hunting. The reserve is dotted with houses, most of which are old homes of former residents, with some later built mainly for tourists to use as summer holiday cabins.

Nowadays, Hornstrandir Nature Reserve is home to 260 species of flowering plants and ferns, many of which are common varieties in the western region, but also includes some rare endemic plant species. To preserve the excellent pristine environment, grazing has been prohibited for decades, allowing plants to grow taller and taller, with some reaching 300–400 meters, such as the coastal purple pea and seaside succory found along the shore. As the area is covered with heavy snow in winter, the plants become particularly sensitive after the snow melts in summer, so visitors should approach them gently.

In addition to the rich variety of plants, Hornstrandir Nature Reserve is also home to a diverse range of animals. Lemmings are very common here, as are foxes, and seals on the beaches. There are about 30 different species of birds living here, and one of the most interesting aspects of visiting is birdwatching on the cliffs. Other types of wildlife can also be spotted. The easiest way to get here is by boat from Bolungarvík or Ísafjörður in the western part of the reserve, or from Norðurfjörður or Hólmavík in the eastern part.

Hornstrandir Nature Reserve

Must-visit reason: The most beautiful nature reserve in Iceland’s natural ecosystem

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Iceland[Iceland]

Province/State where the attraction is located: Westfjords Region [Westfjords Region]