TREK STHORTOQ-IGALIKU

This wonderful tour combines Viking history, a change of scenery and the grandeur of the landscape. It lasts between 4 and 7 days (usually more like 5). The peninsula is dominated by the long, jagged 1,200-metre hill called Killavaat (Redekammen in Danish), visible from almost anywhere. There are several ways to get to Igaliku, but we've opted for the simplest here. This means you won't encounter an elevation gain of more than 445 metres, and the terrain won't be as steep as on the road between Qassiarsuk and Narsaq. Note, however, that there are no huts or sheep farms, so you'll have to sleep in a tent all the way, and remember to pack enough food to last you the whole trip. In addition to the beauty of the scenery and the views over the fjords with drifting icebergs, you'll also pass by several relics of the Viking period, such as the magnificent, well-preserved Hvalsey church, recently listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017. You'll also have the opportunity to visit Sissarluttoq. Although not as well known as Hvalsey and Igaliku, it's still an impressive place, with 42 ruins!

Good to know: the Qaqortoq - Hvalsey - Igaliku hiking route is partly marked by cairns. Even so, a good map is essential. You can pick one up at the tourist office, where it's a good idea to drop in and mark your day of departure and arrival, just in case you have an accident on the way.

Tip: if you don't have much time, you can always ask to be dropped off by boat directly at Hvalsey church. This will save you a day and a half, and you'll still have the most beautiful stretch to cover to Igaliku. Handy for short breaks, or those who are less sporty! Ask Sagalands or Blue Ice Explorer for boat transfer prices. If you're not comfortable trekking alone over several days, especially if it's your first experience, it's a good idea to take a local guide with you.

Qaqortoq has other great hikes , including the one around Tasersuaq Lake (3h), which leaves from the town center and takes you quickly into the surrounding mountains. If you really want to explore the backcountry, the most famous and popular is undoubtedly the multi-day Qaqortoq-Igaliku hike.