A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Discovering Greenland: An Unexplored Arctic Paradise

Introduction

Greenland, the largest island in the world, is an unexplored Arctic paradise offering a variety of unique experiences for adventurous travelers. Located between the Atlantic and Arctic Oceans, Greenland is an autonomous territory of Denmark, but has its own distinct culture influenced by the Inuit, the Danes, and the wild nature.

The Capital: Nuuk

Nuuk, the capital of Greenland, is a small but vibrant city, where traditional Inuit culture blends with Danish modernity. Here, visitors can explore the National Museum of Greenland, which houses Inuit artifacts that are 4,500 years old, and the Katuaq Cultural Center, which features music, dance, and contemporary art.

Northeast Greenland National Park

The Northeast Greenland National Park is the largest and northernmost national park in the world. It is a place of wild and stunning beauty, with giant glaciers, rugged mountains, and a wide variety of wildlife, including polar bears, reindeer, and Arctic foxes.

Ilulissat Icefjord

The Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most impressive places in Greenland. Here, visitors can see huge icebergs floating in the fjord, or take a hike along the edge of the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier, one of the most active and fastest glaciers in the world.

Unique Experiences

Greenland also offers a number of unique experiences, such as seeing the Northern Lights in winter, hiking in the Arctic wilderness in summer, or even taking a dog sled ride. Visitors can also learn about Inuit culture, by visiting local communities and trying traditional foods like 'suaasat' (meat soup) and 'mattak' (raw whale skin).

Travel Tips

Due to its remote location and extreme climate, traveling to Greenland can be a challenge. However, with careful planning, it can be an unforgettable experience. It is recommended to bring warm clothing, even in summer, and be prepared for sudden changes in the weather. In addition, due to the lack of roads between cities, most travel within Greenland is done by plane or boat.

Gastronomic Products of Greenland

• Suaasat

  Suaasat is a traditional Greenlandic soup that is usually made with seal, whale, reindeer, or bird meat. This soup may also include potatoes and onions and is seasoned with salt and pepper. It is a very popular dish in Greenland, especially during the colder months.

• Muktuk

  Muktuk is a traditional Greenlandic dish made from the skin and blubber of the beluga whale or the narwhal. It can be eaten raw, cooked, or pickled. Despite its unappetizing appearance to some, it is an important source of vitamin C and has a unique taste that many Greenlanders enjoy.

• Reindeer and Muskox Meat

  Reindeer and muskox meat is an important part of the diet in Greenland. Reindeers and muskoxen are native animals of Greenland and their meat is prized for its rich and mild flavor. It can be eaten in many ways, from roasted to dried and smoked.

• Fish and Seafood

  Greenland has a wide variety of fresh fish and seafood available, including halibut, Arctic shrimp, and snow crab. These sea products can be enjoyed in many ways, from raw to cooked, and are an essential part of the diet in Greenland.

Sporting Activities in Greenland

Hiking and Trekking

Greenland offers a large number of hiking routes that traverse stunning landscapes of mountains, glaciers, and fjords. The Arctic National Park of Greenland is a popular place for trekking.

Kayaking

Kayaking is an integral part of Greenlandic culture and an exciting way to explore the country's stunning coastline. You can paddle among icebergs or even see whales up close.

Cross-Country Skiing

Greenland is an ideal destination for cross-country skiing, with a season that extends from February to May. There are a variety of routes for all skill levels, from beginners to experts.

Ice Fishing

Ice fishing is a popular activity in Greenland during the winter months. Tourists can catch a variety of species, including Arctic trout and polar cod.

Wildlife Watching

Greenland is home to a variety of unique wildlife, including polar bears, reindeer, and musk oxen. Wildlife watching tours are an excellent way to see these animals in their natural habitat.

Places near Greenland

If you are in Greenland and wish to explore a bit more, here we present you with some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Iceland, land of stunning glaciers and geysers, offers a unique culinary experience with dishes such as Icelandic lamb and fresh fish. Don't miss the opportunity to try skyr, a traditional yogurt, and its famous Brennivín liquor.

Nunavut, el territorio más septentrional de Canadá, ofrece una experiencia única de turismo ártico con impresionantes paisajes polares, fauna local y la oportunidad de degustar la auténtica cocina inuit, incluyendo pescados y mariscos frescos del Ártico.

Newfoundland and Labrador, in Canada, offers stunning natural landscapes, rich maritime history, and a vibrant culinary culture. Enjoy fresh seafood, such as cod and mussels, and experience the unique hospitality of this charming region.