Activities in Narsaq

The town of Narsaq, which lies at the foot of the characteristic mountain of Qaqqarsuaq, has something to offer those that wish to see the ice cap and icebergs, for those interested in geology and for visitors interested in Greenland’s ancient history. In addition, nature-lovers, anglers and hikers are also very welcome.

Examples of activities

A historical site – the Norse settlers in Narsaq
Archaeologists believe that during his first visit to Greenland in 982 AD Erik the Red spent the winter on the island of Illutalik not far from Narsaq, and throughout the area there is a lot of evidence of the presence of the Norse settlers. In Narsaq itself a large farm estate has been excavated including houses, stables, storehouses, etc., and in Dyrnæs Valley just outside the town a farm and church have also been excavated. As the building materials in the Viking period were primarily turf, the ruins have collapsed and are not particularly visible. However, at the town’s museum you can get a really good insight into the area in the Viking period.

Ice sheet and icebergs
Narsaq Sound is always full of icebergs of all shapes and sizes, and the icebergs originate from the nearby glaciers. On a trip by boat you can go ashore close to one of the glaciers and touch the Ice Sheet itself and marvel at the spectrum of colours in the icebergs ranging from deep blue through turquoise to ice that is almost as clear as glass. The trip also takes in a couple of bird cliffs and there are good chances of seeing white-tailed eagles gliding on the wind.

Northern lights in the open skies
The southern part of Greenland does not actually lie that far north and as a result the night sky in August is already dark enough for the northern lights to be clearly seen. If you move outside the illuminated areas in the town, it is simply a question of leaning your head back and enjoying the sight of the orgy of light in shades of yellow, green and red.