Aasiaat,Egedesminde
Aasiaat, known as Ausiait and previously Egedesminde, is a quaint town in Qeqertalik municipality, western Greenland. Nestled on an island within the Aasiaat Archipelago at Disko Bay's southern tip, it's dubbed 'Spiders' from the Greenlandic 'Aasiaat.' The moniker stems from the town's founding era, marked by a notable presence of spiders. Aasiaat, Greenland's 5th largest town, is often referred to as the 'land of a thousand islands' and is just as rich in whale populations. Despite its size and the presence of both renowned and obscure art galleries, it remains less frequented by tourists compared to smaller Disko Bay settlements."
Summertime in Aasiaat brings the chance to navigate the vast coastal archipelago, dotted with countless islands. Glide by colossal icebergs from Ilulissat Icefjord, uncover the whale graveyard, and perhaps brave a dip in the lukewarm spring en route to island treks—Manermiut awaits with its ghostly settlement. Engage with Aasiaat's neighboring hamlets, then reel in dinner—cod to halibut—remembering a fishing permit is key. Aasiaat's residents cherish whale watching all year. Bowhead whales dominate winter waters, yielding to summer's Minke, Fin, and Humpbacks, often spotted by Disko Bay. As winter cloaks Aasiaat in snow, skiing and snowshoeing replace hiking, boats give way to sled dogs, and ice fishing becomes a communal pastime. For those seeking adventure, dog sleds offer a glimpse into Inuit legacy. And when night falls, the Northern Lights perform an ethereal ballet, best viewed from the town's darker outskirts."
