Solar Eclipse in Hlöðuvík

Hosts Ásdís, Bjarney and Rúna invite you to a rare and unforgettable adventure to the remote bay of Hlöðuvík, located in the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve at the northwesternmost tip of Iceland.

On August 12, 2026, a solar eclipse will take place and this journey offers a unique opportunity to witness this extraordinary natural phenomenon from one of the most dramatic and untouched landscapes in Iceland.

The journey

This expedition is designed for travelers in good physical condition who enjoy hiking and true wilderness experiences. Guests who plan to participate in this journey will be invited to attend a pre-departure Zoom meeting. During this meeting, the hosts will go over all necessary requirements and important details regarding the trip.

Once guests arrive in Hlöðuvík, they will be completely out of service and disconnected from the outside world, so it is essential that everyone feels well prepared beforehand.

The adventure begins in Ísafjörður, a small and remote town in the west of Iceland located approximately 7 hours from Reykjavík. From there, participants will travel by boat to Hornstrandir, a scenic 3-hour journey that can sometimes be rough depending on sea conditions.

During the stay, guests can expect:

• Daily hikes averaging around 4-8 km
• Elevation gains of approximately 300 - 550 meters
• Rugged, terrain
• Shared Responsibilities, such as loading the luggage, helping with preparing food, keeping accommodation clean. 
• Unpredictable weather
  

Off grid experience

Are you tired of constantly being online, using your phone and tablet? Do not worry! Hornstrandir is completely off-grid. You can relax in the peace and quiet without always checking your phone !

There is:

• No internet or mobile connection
• Limited access to electricity

*Please note that an emergency TETRA phone is available in the Hlöðuvík houses, along with radio communication access to the Coast Guard and local search and rescue authorities, should any emergency arise.

Accommodation

Accommodation in Hlöðuvík consists of cozy sleeping-loft style rooms (bring your own sleeping bag), with shared living areas and a kitchen downstairs. The houses are heated by wood-burning stoves, and a small power plant provides just enough electricity to keep essential appliances, such as the refrigerator, running.

Is this something for you?

This is a perfect opportunity for small groups of hiking enthusiasts seeking something truly different, raw nature, digital detox, and an unforgettable eclipse experience in one of Iceland’s most remote locations.

Participation is limited to 16 guests only.

Due to high demand for accommodation and boat transport in Hornstrandir during the eclipse period, this is a rare and limited opportunity. 

Practical things

Each guest may bring one 70–90 liter duffel bag containing everything needed for a stay in the wilderness.
Each guest must also bring one small daypack for daily hikes.

Eclipse glasses
Sleeping bag, pillow, and sheet
Outdoor clothing (wool layers and waterproof shell)
Hiking boots and indoor shoes (Crocs are ideal and also useful for sea bathing) Personal medication, toothbrush, toiletries, earplugs recommended
Towel and swimwear
One power bank (if using phones for photography)
Your medicine 

The Food

The hosts Ásdís and Bjarney will purchase food in consultation with the group and their preferences, pack and transport supplies to Hlöðuvík, and prepare the meals. (Yes, we know how to cook!!)

Evening Gatherings (Icelandic kvöldvaka)

Organized evening programs will be offered. Traditional “húslestur” (house reading) will be a central part, as it was a main pastime of the former Hornstrandir inhabitants. Old stories from the area will emerge as we settle in for the night.

Shared Responsibilities

In Hlöðuvík, everyone contributes. Hosts will assign roles, whether assisting with cooking, cleaning, preparation, or other tasks required in a large household in the wilderness. This is a part of the fun!

HFF Pop-Up Cinema

The hosts will offer a movie night before or after dinner when time allows and everyone is present. Films from the 2026 Hornstrandir Film Festival will be shown.

A part of the profit goes to support the Hornstrandir Film Festival.

Please take a look at their website:

https://www.hornstrandirfilmfestival.com/

Alcohol

Guests are responsible for their own alcohol. As access to Hlöðuvík can be unpredictable, please consider quantity carefully and keep it moderate.