ITILLEQ
Itilleq is an island settlement near the town of Sisimiut and a popular cruise destination just north of the Arctic Circle.
Itilleq, which means ‘crossing place’, boasts the rocky and undulating nature which is typical of most coastal communities in the area. Visitors will have the chance to explore the settlement well-known for being a pristine destination, due to the housekeeping pride of the locals.
Hike through the main inhabited centre, past a lake and a football field, and it will not be too long before you have walked by most of the painted wooden houses into largely untouched backcountry.
You’ve Crossed The Arctic Circle
A sign that you’ve passed beyond the invisible Arctic Circle is that you will hear the howls of Greenland sled dogs – Itilleq is the southernmost location allowed to have this ancient breed, being only 2 kilometres above the Arctic Circle! Consequently no other types of canines are allowed above this point, in order to keep the breed pure.
Itilleq Hospitality – Town Kaffemik
As a cruise guest, you will enjoy Itilleq’s famous hospitality – a highlight of the visit is usually a chance to visit a local’s home for a kaffemik style engagement.
In order to host an entire shipload of people, a number of locals will agree to open up their homes to guests. The host does not necessarily have to be able to speak English, just be willing to be welcoming and offer some cake and coffee. The guest will then be able to feel what it’s like to live in a Greenlandic settlement for themselves, for what better to reflect the soul of a community than by going into a person’s home?
The Friendly Football Match
Itilleq has become famous for being a hub for ‘football fanatics’, and this reputation is only cemented each time a cruise ship comes by to play a match. Locals are pitted against international visitors, although sometimes when a team is outnumbered one side will happily ‘loan’ a player or two from the other side. This event guarantees sweaty bodies and smiling faces!
“When I heard about the football match, I just had to join in. I love being able to intermix with the locals in this informal setting. We don’t have to talk, we just have to play.”
– Hurtigruten cruise guest
Want To Visit Itilleq?
Some expedition cruise ships who sail in Greenland call upon Itilleq. You can check greenland.com’s Cruise Call List. Hurtigruten’s Fram is a regular visitor to this settlement.
Want to experience settlement life in Greenland on your own? You can sail to Itilleq from Sisimiut with Sirius Greenland.
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