Qeqertarsuatsiaat, formerly known as Fiskenæsset, is a cozy settlement in Greenland with a population of 169 as of 2020. Founded in 1754, this charming spot on an island by the Labrador Sea was once a bustling trading post for seal skins and blubber. It even had a salmon and cod fishery going on! Nowadays, it's a quiet port of call for the Arctic Umiaq Line ferry and a cool spot to check out some pink sapphire and ruby mining. Despite a slight decline in population over the years, Qeqertarsuatsiaat still retains its unique charm and history.

Qeqertarsuatsiaat, also known by its Danish name Fiskenæsset, is a picturesque village nestled on the southern coast of Greenland, approximately 130 kilometers (81 miles) south of the capital Nuuk. The village is easily accessible by boat, with the beautiful surrounding islands creating a stunning backdrop as you approach the harbor. Its scenic location and historical significance make Qeqertarsuatsiaat a unique destination for visitors interested in Greenlandic culture, nature, and history.

A Historical Overview

Qeqertarsuatsiaat has a rich history that spans over 400 years of Inuit habitation. The first European contact occurred in the 1600s, when a small trading post was established in the area. The Danish settlers later named the settlement Fiskenæsset in the mid-1700s, which reflected the community’s reliance on fishing as a major livelihood. During this period, the settlement became an official trading station, and missionaries arrived to introduce Christianity to the region.

In the 1800s, Qeqertarsuatsiaat witnessed a significant ecological event with the extinction of the Great Auk, a flightless bird that resembled a penguin but was actually more closely related to the smaller Alk still found in the Arctic today. The village also played a role in Greenland’s modernization during the 1950s and 1960s, when the G60 policy aimed to centralize the population into fewer settlements. This policy led to the relocation of people from smaller settlements such as Kangillermiut and Uugarsiorfik to Qeqertarsuatsiaat, increasing the village's population.

At its peak, Qeqertarsuatsiaat had a population of around 500 people, but by 2020, this number had declined to about 170 residents due to urbanization and migration. Despite these changes, Qeqertarsuatsiaat remains an important example of how Greenland is balancing its traditional way of life with the influences of modernity.

A Unique Place to Visit

Qeqertarsuatsiaat is a remarkable blend of tradition and modernity. Despite its small size, the village is full of life and offers a glimpse into the daily rhythms of rural Greenlandic living. It remains a vital hub for fishing and hunting, with small boats still heading out daily to gather food from the surrounding fjords. At the same time, many residents use smartphones, streaming services, and the internet for entertainment, just like in other parts of the world.

The village is home to a single store, which provides the essentials, though the selection is limited. This gives visitors a rare opportunity to experience life with fewer consumer choices, a refreshing break from the constant availability we’re used to in larger cities. If you have special dietary needs or essential items, it’s a good idea to bring your own supplies if you plan to stay for more than a day or two.

Exploring the Village

Qeqertarsuatsiaat’s compact layout means that getting around is simple and offers a great chance to explore the village on foot. From the harbor, a paved path leads up through the village, providing a leisurely route for a walk around the colorful houses. Since there are no cars, transportation is mainly by scooter or ATV for personal use.

The village’s historic church, built in the mid-1800s, is a lovely spot to visit. Inside, the church exudes warmth and charm, and the exterior offers a picturesque example of Greenlandic architecture. If you walk around the village’s small lake and venture a little higher up, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view over the fjord, the surrounding islands, and the majestic mountains that define the landscape.

Tourism in Qeqertarsuatsiaat

Though Qeqertarsuatsiaat is located relatively close to Nuuk, tourism here is quite limited. The village is about 7.5 hours by boat from the capital, making it a peaceful and quiet destination for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Despite its proximity to Nuuk, the village maintains a low profile when it comes to tourism, providing an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience.

Visitors can choose to stay in rental houses, offering a unique chance to experience life in a Greenlandic village firsthand. Staying in Qeqertarsuatsiaat allows you to immerse yourself in the community, enjoy the breathtaking natural surroundings, and support the local economy by shopping in the village store. The local shop offers a variety of basic goods, and purchasing products here helps sustain the village and its way of life.

Nearby Attractions

Qeqertarsuatsiaat is located in an area rich in natural resources, and nearby, you’ll find a ruby mine—an interesting site for those interested in Greenland’s geology and mineral resources. The fjord itself is a stunning location for exploration, and the surrounding landscape is ideal for fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching.

Conclusion

Qeqertarsuatsiaat offers visitors a unique chance to experience a remote Greenlandic village that blends traditional ways of life with modern influences. The picturesque surroundings, historical significance, and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal destination for those looking to explore Greenland off the beaten path. Whether you’re interested in hiking, fishing, or simply soaking in the beauty of the fjords, Qeqertarsuatsiaat provides an authentic Arctic experience that you won’t soon forget.