ILULISSAT AUGUST 2016
∣ AN EXPERIENCE FOR LIFE ∣
ABOUT ILULISSAT
Standing on the banks of the fjord and watching the icebergs gliding majestically past takes life to another dimension. The Icefjord’s position on UNESCO’s world heritage list is fully deserved.
Ilulissat is a town of beauty for the body and soul, and is North Greenland’s centre of culture, transport and administration. It’s enterprising and inviting, traditional and modern, in addition to which the area is blessed by scenery that can take the breath away of even the most seasoned traveller. The Kangia glacier is one of the reasons why. Every year it pushes 35 cubic kilometres of ice out into the fjord cast in nature’s own mould in sizes small, medium and large – up to 100 metres high. These icebergs sail serenely to the mouth of the fjord, shift course and head off on their final voyage out to sea.
SPECIAL LIGHT
Ilulissat means icebergs, and indeed the ice, the icebergs and the fjord also make up the town’s landmark. The endless whiteness and incomprehensibly huge universe generate a special light that will remain etched in your memory forever. The town is both pleasant and active: Museums, life at the harbour, the church and urban life with cafés, restaurants and a disco.
The Arctic explorer Knud Rasmussen was born and bred in Ilulissat. Visit his exhibition and get an impression of the courage and determination that characterised his perilous expeditions.
We also recommend a hike to the Sermermiut settlement and an evening walk to Knud Rasmussen’s memorial stone. From here there’s a fantastic view of the bay all the way over to Disko Island, some 75 km away on the horizon. If the weather’s clear, you’ll also be able to experience a sunset that’s really out of this world.
DOGS AND SLEDS
Snarling and barking dogs are also a characteristic aspect of a visit to Ilulissat. In the summer the dogs are somewhat passive, almost as if they’re recharging their batteries before the snow begins to fall and the cold weather sets in for good. That’s when the dogs come alive: they have to go to work with their driver out to the hunting grounds or on trips with guests from all corners of the globe who wish to see Ilulissat. These trips range from two hours or a whole day to genuine expeditions lasting several days.