Qoornoq Norse Ruins - a horse grazing in a field next to a stone structure
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Qoornoq Norse Ruins

4.8
·4 reviews·Qoornoq, Greenland

Explore Qoornoq, a charming abandoned village in Greenland, now vibrant with summer homes and whispers of Norse history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best light for photos

CrowdLow
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Qoornoq Norse Ruins - a horse grazing in a field next to a stone structure

Qoornoq Norse Ruins

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best light for photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Qoornoq, a charming abandoned village in Greenland, now vibrant with summer homes and whispers of Norse history.

4.8
(4 reviews)

"A beautiful village that was abandoned in the 1970s. Today, people use the houses as summer homes."

Vertical photo
TIP

Book boat tours early

Tours to Qoornoq can fill up, especially during peak season. Book your boat trip from Nuuk in advance! :ticket:

Dress in layers

Arctic weather is unpredictable. Wear layers to stay comfortable on your boat trip and while exploring. :cloud:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Abandoned Village Charm

Abandoned Village Charm

Qoornoq Village

Explore charming, colorful houses now used as summer homes, offering a glimpse into past life.

Scenic Boat Journey

Scenic Boat Journey

Coastal waters from Nuuk

The journey to Qoornoq is as stunning as the destination, with breathtaking Arctic coastal views.

Norse Ruins

Norse Ruins

Near Qoornoq

Discover remnants of Norse settlements, offering a historical connection to Greenland's past.

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Planning Your Visit

Getting to Qoornoq

Access to Qoornoq is primarily by boat, often from Nuuk. Plan your transport in advance, as tours can fill up. Consider the weather, as sea conditions can impact travel times and comfort.

Seasonal Considerations

Qoornoq is most accessible and enjoyable during the summer months when the weather is milder and boat travel is more reliable. Winter visits are challenging due to ice and limited access.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Best light for photos
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Warmer weather for exploring
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Visiting in the Nuuk area for a few days - fishing and eating in Qooqqut or boat tour to Færingehavn/Nordafar?

Book boat tours early

Tours to Qoornoq can fill up, especially during peak season. Book your boat trip from Nuuk in advance! :ticket:

Dress in layers

Arctic weather is unpredictable. Wear layers to stay comfortable on your boat trip and while exploring. :cloud:

reddit.com

Are there any Norse ruins on the Western side of Greenland (such as around Nuuk, Sisimiut or Ilulissat)?

reddit.com

When a storm started whipping up off the fjord, I found shelter from the wind by pitching my tent inside these Norse ruins at Sissarluttoq, Greenland.

Respect summer homes

Remember that houses are privately owned summer homes. Be respectful of residents and their property. :housewithgarden:

Check Norse ruin info

Norse ruins are scarce in this region. Confirm availability and accessibility with your tour operator. :compass:

reddit.com

Hvalsey church, the best preserved Norse ruins in Greenland. It hosted the wedding of Thorstein Olafsson and Sigrid Björnsdóttir on either 14 or 16 September 1408. It is located in the abandoned Greenlandic/Norse settlement of Hvalsey, (now Qaqortoq) on the southern tip of Greenland. [3648 x 2736]

Tips

from all over the internet

Book boat tours early

Tours to Qoornoq can fill up, especially during peak season. Book your boat trip from Nuuk in advance! :ticket:

Dress in layers

Arctic weather is unpredictable. Wear layers to stay comfortable on your boat trip and while exploring. :cloud:

Respect summer homes

Remember that houses are privately owned summer homes. Be respectful of residents and their property. :housewithgarden:

Check Norse ruin info

Norse ruins are scarce in this region. Confirm availability and accessibility with your tour operator. :compass:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(4 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Qoornoq to be a beautiful and charming abandoned village, now used as summer homes, offering a unique glimpse into local life and history. The scenic boat journey from Nuuk is frequently praised as a highlight. While the Norse ruins are present, they are noted as being in poor condition and difficult to find.

"A beautiful village that was abandoned in the 1970s. Today, people use the houses as summer homes. Not sure what winter is like here but now, it is amazingly beautiful. Enjoy our visit there."

C Neon

"This is about the trip there😊, sailing there is wonderful. The houses are used as summer houses and they’re very expensive when we visited a few families there."

George Benaroya

"A truly amazing experience"

JustClover Joshua

What People Like

Beautiful village charm
Scenic boat trips
Unique summer homes

What People Dislike

Poorly preserved Norse ruins

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The primary way to reach Qoornoq is by boat, typically on organized tours departing from Nuuk. These tours offer a scenic journey along the coast. It's advisable to book these tours in advance, especially during the summer months, as they are popular. Reddit

Public transport directly to Qoornoq is very limited or non-existent. Boat tours are the most reliable and common method of access for visitors. Reddit

The boat journey from Nuuk to Qoornoq typically takes a few hours, depending on the boat and sea conditions. Enjoy the scenic Arctic coastal views during your trip. Reddit

While technically possible to arrange private boat transport, most visitors opt for guided tours from Nuuk for convenience and to ensure access. Independent travel might be more complex and costly. Reddit

Expect stunning Arctic landscapes, potential wildlife sightings, and a comfortable ride if the weather is good. Dress in layers as it can be chilly on the water. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

You don't need separate entry tickets for Qoornoq itself, but you will need to book a boat tour or transport that includes access to the village. Reddit

The cost will primarily be for the boat tour from Nuuk. Prices vary depending on the tour operator and duration, but expect it to be a significant part of your budget. Reddit

Qoornoq is an abandoned village used as summer homes, so there are no official opening hours. Access is generally during daylight hours, and tours operate seasonally. Reddit

Yes, many tour operators in Nuuk offer online booking for boat trips to Qoornoq. It's recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist season. Reddit

Tours usually include boat transportation to and from Nuuk, time to explore the village, and often information about its history and the Norse ruins. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore the colorful abandoned houses, which are now used as summer homes by locals. There are also remnants of Norse ruins nearby, offering a historical perspective. Reddit

The Norse ruins are described as 'very poor' and hard to come by, suggesting they are not extensively preserved or easily identifiable. It's best to manage expectations. Reddit

Yes, Qoornoq is typically visited as a day trip from Nuuk. The boat journey and exploration can be comfortably completed within a day. Reddit

As an abandoned village primarily used as summer homes, there are limited public facilities. It's advisable to bring your own food and water. Reddit

You can walk around the village, but remember that the houses are privately owned summer homes. Be respectful of the residents and their property. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The colorful houses against the Arctic landscape are incredibly photogenic. The coastal scenery during the boat trip also offers stunning shots. Reddit

Morning light often provides beautiful, soft illumination for the village and surrounding scenery. Golden hour in the evening can also be magical if your tour allows. Reddit

Generally, photography of the landscape and exteriors of the houses is fine. Be mindful and respectful if photographing people or their private property. Reddit

A versatile lens for landscapes and village details is useful. Consider a wide-angle lens for expansive views and a telephoto for distant scenery or potential wildlife. Reddit

Yes, you can photograph the Norse ruins, but given their condition, focus on capturing the historical context and the surrounding environment. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Qoornoq offers a unique glimpse into a different way of life, with its colorful houses serving as summer retreats. Children might enjoy the novelty of exploring a village that comes alive seasonally. The boat trip to Qoornoq can also be an exciting adventure, with opportunities to spot marine life.

It's important to note that the village is primarily composed of private summer homes, so supervision and respect for residents' property are key. The historical aspect, including the Norse ruins, might be more engaging for older children interested in history. Ensure your tour operator can accommodate children and provides a safe environment. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Day-Trippers from Nuuk

Qoornoq is an ideal destination for a day trip from Nuuk, offering a perfect escape into Greenland's natural beauty and history. Most tours are designed to fit within a single day, allowing you to experience the village and its surroundings without an overnight stay.

The boat journey itself is a significant part of the appeal, providing stunning coastal vistas. Upon arrival, you can explore the charming houses and learn about the area's past, including the Norse ruins. Remember to book your tour in advance to secure your spot and make the most of your limited time. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of Qoornoq

Qoornoq was once a thriving settlement, but it was abandoned in the 1970s. Today, its colorful houses are lovingly maintained and used as summer homes by families, breathing life back into the village during the warmer months. This dual existence gives Qoornoq a unique atmosphere, blending history with contemporary seasonal living. Visitors often remark on the beauty of these homes against the stark Arctic backdrop. Reddit

Adding to its historical significance are the Norse ruins found in the vicinity. While described as being in 'very poor' condition and difficult to locate, these remnants offer a tangible link to Greenland's early European settlers. Exploring these sites, even in their weathered state, provides a profound connection to the island's layered past. Reddit

Navigating the Arctic Waters

The journey to Qoornoq is an integral part of the experience, offering breathtaking views of the Greenlandic coast. Boat tours from Nuuk are the most common way to reach the village, providing a comfortable and scenic passage. Travelers often highlight the beauty of sailing through the fjords and past icebergs, making the trip itself a memorable adventure. Reddit

It's crucial to be prepared for Arctic weather, even during summer. Dressing in layers is highly recommended to stay comfortable on the boat and during exploration. The sea can be unpredictable, so checking weather forecasts and being ready for changing conditions will enhance your journey. Reddit

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