Qeqertarsuaq - Disko Island
Geologically the Disko Island is far younger than the mainland and is therefore very different. The island mostly consists of high and steep basalt mountains that were created by volcanic activity 25-65 million years ago. The name Qeqertarsuaq means "the great island", however the Danish name, Disko, refers to the shape of the island. The distance from the mainland to the Disko Island is approx. 100 km, but in clear weather the island is visible from every town on the Disko Bay. The town of Qeqertarsuaq is beautifully situated in the Disko Bay and is set against a backdrop of magnificent basalt mountains. In the mountains above Qeqertarsuaq is "the Lyngmark glacier" and it is the only place that can offer dog sledding in summer. The Disko Island is the largest island of Greenland. Qeqertarsuaq (also known as Godhavn) is the only town on the entire island besides the small village of Kangersluk (Diskofjord). The rest of the island is unspoilt nature, which according to arctic conditions, shows a varied species of flora.
Hotel Disko:
Hotel Disko is placed in the middle of the town in 4 different buildings near each other. One of them is the old residence of the colony manager. The hotel has 19 double- and 5 single rooms with private facilities.
(When selecting the category "Best comfort" at booking of your travel, you will be assigned a room at Hotel Disko).
Panorama Hostel:
The hostel is placed in the old "Telebygning", 1 km. from the harbour. The hostel has 6 rooms with two bunk beds in each and a small kitchen and joint living room. Linen is available in all rooms and breakfast is included. Breakfast is served at Hotel Diskobay.
Siorarsuit Hostel:
Private bath/toilet is not possible. Linen is available in all rooms and breakfast is included. Breakfast is served at Hotel Diskobay.
(When selecting the category "Cheapest solution" at booking of your travel, you will be assigned a room at either Panorama Hostel or Siorarsuit Hostel.)
Sailing:
The boat trip from Ilulissat to Qeqertarsuaq on the Disko Island takes approx. 4½ hours. At first we set out between numerous icebergs, the numbers of these decrease as we approach the fascinating peaks of the Disko Island. Approx. 100 km in western direction we encounter the Disko Island. In clear weather the distance seems as little as 20-30 km. The high and steep basalt mountains rise at an elevation of 1200 metres and on top the melt water from huge glaciers creates fantastic waterfalls.
Onboard the boat we have good opportunities for spotting whales during this trip and close to Qeqertarsuaq we pass one of the humpback whales favourite feeding grounds. Occasionally you will see these magnificent animals throw themselves out of the water and show its characteristic long fins in the surface of the water.
It is possible to buy coffee/tea, sweets etc. onboard the boat.
Events and sights in the area, free of charge:
Qeqertarsuaq is a peaceful Greenlandic town beautifully situated south on the Disko Island. A lot is to be seen walking around the town and the surroundings. You will find many fine trout rivers and the island has proud traditions of heather-smoked trout in summer. You will not regret buying one of these if given the opportunity. The town houses a fine museum giving a good introduction to the area and its fascinating history. Finally, the hiking possibilities in the surrounding area are among the best in Northern Greenland. Depending on the level of your hiking experience you can do the hikes by your self or alternatively buy a guided tour.
Possible excursions:
- Trek to the waterfall in "Blæsedalen"
- Trek to Kuannit - the place of the "kvan" plant and basalt formations
- Trek to Qaqqaliaq - "Hvaludkiggen"
- Trek to Østerlien
- Whale safari and shark fishing
- Trip around the town
- "Kaffemik"
- Dog sledding in the summer
Links to Hotels and excursions: www.lyngmark.gl
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