#5 – A Country Setting

#5 – A Country Setting

Next morning we lugged our luggage down to the boat and returned to Narsaq where we re-fueled the boat and got a new pilot. Now early afternoon, we sailed out to an adjoining fjord and landed at a remote dock with no visible life nearby. Coming ashore, we set off afoot from this side of the fjord across land to the village of Igaliku nestled on the shore of the adjoining fjord on the opposite side.

Imagine walking a long rolling country road, green fields of grass all around set against a clear blue sky, stark mountains streaked with patches of snow and a massive spread of clouds in the sky hanging low over the towering peaks casting dark shadows upon the mountains. Continuing along the stoney road cresting a hill, a neat and orderly farm set back from the road comes into view. There below are seen sheep and cattle grazing on the green grass, long red barns, stacks of green baled grass, a farm tractor laboring away in a distant field, a slight chill in the air – a tranquil, pastoral sight that calms the soul yet lifts the spirit. In its simplicity there is such a magnificent sense of idilic freedom from worldly concerns.

Shortly thereafter, passing through a gate, into view came a fjord, gray mountains beyond caressed by clouds casting dappled light and shadows upon them. 

Rounding a bend in the road, the fjord now in full view, the tiny village of Igaliku revealed itself. Unpretentious, serene and so placid, the uncomplicated image before me further deepened feelings of contentment and peace.

We did not venture down to the village, rather enjoyed the splendid views from the higher ground. Above the village, we stopped and prepared our “picnic”.  One could hardly ask for a better more peacefulness view. Here, all was well with the world. No cares, no worries. Remote, simple, direct, this setting was a bit of heaven.

Returning along the rocky road, we met our boat at the dock. Here, Kunuk, our guide, and the pilot told us a surprise awaited us before returning to the hostel. Being a bit tired at that time after the long walk, I did not venture any guesses as to what was to come. 

But it was something quite extraordinary!

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