TRYGGHAMNA

Spitsbergen in a Nutshell

BASIC INFORMATION
Trygghamna is one of our favourite fjords. It is a relatively small fjord located at the northern tip of Isfjorden, which can be called “Spitsbergen in a nutshell”. This is because it has most of the characteristic elements of Svalbard. Here, you’ll find beautiful and towering mountains, Harrietbrenn and Kjerulfbreen glaciers, rich tundra, and commonly encountered animals such as reindeer, polar foxes, birds, and occasionally polar bears. It’s a very atmospheric place, and all its attractions are contained within a small area. Trygghamna is part of the National Park, boasting historical relics and rock formations interesting from a geomorphological perspective. On the western side there are whalers’ graves and remnants of blubber ovens. Slavic people also have their history here. Pomors established a hunting base here consisting of five houses, making it their largest settlement on Spitsbergen.
The beauty of Trygghamna owes much to its topography. The landscape is highly diverse, with tall and striking mountains.
At the western entrance of the fjord there is Alkhornet Mountain, named for its horn-like shape and the name of its inhabitants – guillemots. There are also little auks here, resembling small penguins but with the ability to fly. Arctic foxes take advantage of these circumstances, having their dens at the foot of the mountain and skillfully stealing bird eggs or consuming smaller or dead birds.
The rich tundra elements enriched by bird droppings attract reindeer to the area.
Further, the fjord narrows and leads deeper into the descending Harrietbrenn glacier. Partially cut off from the fjord by several islets, it forms a reservoir reminiscent of a mountain lake, into which the glacier calves. It is often filled with growlers and looks spectacular.
For centuries, Trygghamna has had a reputation as a good shelter. Dutch whalers in the 18th century referred to it as a “safe haven”.

Trekking to the Glacier
Trygghamna is a crucial point in our trips. As we approach it, we carefully observe the nearby shores in search of wildlife. We have encountered wandering polar bears here several times. Then, navigating around the islets, we anchor the yacht close to the glacier. Beautiful views and tranquility are guaranteed. Then we disembark onto the island in front of the Harrietbreen glacier and admire it. If conditions permit (we must be cautious because the terrain, due to the melting glacier, is very wet and crisscrossed by rivers), we attempt to reach its front or even embark on a short trek across it. It is an exciting and unforgettable experience.