Lille Malene (Quassussuaq)
Hike Quassussuaq (Lille Malene) for breathtaking panoramic views of Nuuk and its majestic arctic surroundings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Longer daylight, milder weather
Lille Malene (Quassussuaq)
Best Time
Longer daylight, milder weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike Quassussuaq (Lille Malene) for breathtaking panoramic views of Nuuk and its majestic arctic surroundings.
"The view from the top of the mountain is nice, where there is the most beautiful view of Nuuk and the mountains "Store Malene" and "Sermitsiaq"."
Buddy Up for Safety
Consider hiking with a companion due to recent polar bear sightings near Nuuk. :shield:
Check Weather Before You Go
Arctic weather can change rapidly. Dress in layers and be prepared for all conditions. :cloud:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Summit Panorama
Summit of Quassussuaq
Breathtaking views of Nuuk, Store Malene, and Sermitsiaq mountains. A true arctic vista.
Alpine Ski Facility
Near Nuuk Airport
A small ski resort offering a unique way to ascend or descend parts of the mountain.
Airport Proximity
Adjacent to Nuuk Airport
Conveniently located, making it an accessible adventure right upon arrival or before departure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Ascent
Safety First on the Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Buddy Up for Safety
Consider hiking with a companion due to recent polar bear sightings near Nuuk. :shield:
Check Weather Before You Go
Arctic weather can change rapidly. Dress in layers and be prepared for all conditions. :cloud:
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The terrain can be uneven. Good hiking boots are essential for a comfortable and safe climb. :athletic_shoe:
Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The views from the summit are spectacular and perfect for photos. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Buddy Up for Safety
Consider hiking with a companion due to recent polar bear sightings near Nuuk. :shield:
Check Weather Before You Go
Arctic weather can change rapidly. Dress in layers and be prepared for all conditions. :cloud:
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The terrain can be uneven. Good hiking boots are essential for a comfortable and safe climb. :athletic_shoe:
Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The views from the summit are spectacular and perfect for photos. :camerawithflash:
Allow Ample Time
While Quassussuaq can be climbed in about an hour, allow extra time for enjoying the views. :stopwatch:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Lille Malene for its stunning panoramic views of Nuuk and the surrounding mountains, making it a highly accessible and rewarding hike. Its proximity to the airport is a significant convenience. Some note that while generally safe, recent polar bear activity warrants caution and hiking with a companion is advised.
"Lille Malene is the name of the mountain where the airport in Nuuk is located. 100 m from the airport there is an alpine ski facility with 2 tow lifts. The mountain is not particularly high, 440 m above sea level, and it can be climbed on foot without much difficulty. In winter, you can, among other things, go up the mountain in the lift track, but it is a bit steep in some places. The view from the top of the mountain is nice, where there is the most beautiful view of Nuuk and the mountains "Store Malene" and "Sermitsiaq". Lille Malene is incorrectly placed on the map, but this obviously cannot be corrected. As I said, the mountain is immediately east of Nuuk airport."
Lars Wenstrup
"It is a very nice place to have a holiday during Christmas and New Year
Lars Ole :-):-):-)"
Lars Ole Damsted Larsen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lille Malene is located immediately east of Nuuk Airport. You can reach the base of the mountain by taxi or by car from Nuuk town center. For hikers, the trailhead is easily accessible from the airport vicinity.
While there isn't direct public transport to the specific hiking trails, Nuuk's local bus services can get you close to the airport area, from where you can walk to the mountain's base.
Yes, you can drive to the vicinity of Nuuk Airport, which is adjacent to Lille Malene. Parking is available near the airport and the ski facility.
Absolutely! Lille Malene is perfect for a day trip. The hike itself can take as little as an hour, leaving plenty of time to explore Nuuk or enjoy the summit views.
The most common access point is near Nuuk Airport. You can also access parts of the mountain via the ski lift tracks during winter.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, hiking Lille Malene (Quassussuaq) is free and open to the public. There are no admission fees for accessing the trails.
Lille Malene is accessible 24/7 for hiking. However, the ski facility has specific operating hours, which are relevant if you plan to use the lifts.
Yes, the alpine ski facility on Lille Malene operates with a fee for using the tow lifts. Pricing details are usually available at the ski facility itself.
Yes, you can hike Lille Malene in winter, but be prepared for snow and icy conditions. Using the ski lift tracks can be an alternative way to ascend.
No booking is required for hiking Lille Malene. It's a natural attraction open for all to enjoy.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike to the summit of Quassussuaq typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours round trip, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the top.
The hike is generally considered moderate. It's not overly strenuous, but there are some steep sections. It's manageable for most fitness levels.
From the summit, you'll get stunning panoramic views of Nuuk, the surrounding fjords, and the neighboring mountains like Store Malene and Sermitsiaq.
There are no specific facilities at the summit itself, just the natural landscape. It's a great spot for a picnic if you bring your own supplies.
While many hike alone, it's recommended to hike with a companion due to recent polar bear sightings in the area. Always inform someone of your plans.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, offers magical light for photography. Midday can also be good for clear, crisp shots of the landscape.
You can capture sweeping landscape shots of Nuuk, dramatic mountain vistas, and unique arctic scenery. Drone photography is also popular here.
Generally, there are no restrictions on personal photography. However, always be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details of the mountains. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
Drone usage is permitted in many areas around Nuuk, including Lille Malene, but always check local regulations and be aware of any no-fly zones, especially near the airport.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Pack plenty of snacks and water, as there are no facilities on the mountain. Dress children in layers to adapt to changing weather. Consider bringing binoculars for spotting wildlife or distant sights. The proximity to the airport also means it's an easy activity to fit in before or after a flight.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Tips for budget travelers: Utilize local buses to get close to the airport area. Pack your own food and drinks for the hike to avoid purchasing expensive options. The stunning views are completely free, offering incredible value for your travel budget.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Photography tips: Aim for sunrise or sunset for the best light, creating dramatic shadows and vibrant colors. Consider bringing a drone for aerial shots of the landscape and the airport. Wide-angle lenses are perfect for capturing the vastness of the scenery, while telephoto lenses can highlight the details of distant mountains.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Two Malenes: Quassussuaq and Ukkusissat
The accessibility of Lille Malene, being so close to the airport and town, makes it an ideal introduction to Greenland's hiking culture. Its 440-meter elevation means it's achievable for most, providing a sense of accomplishment and stunning scenery without an extreme time commitment. Store Malene, on the other hand, requires a longer trek, often taking 3-5 hours, and is best suited for experienced hikers.
When planning your hikes, consider your fitness level and the time you have available. Both mountains offer unique perspectives of Nuuk and the surrounding arctic landscape, making them essential stops for any outdoor enthusiast visiting the area.
Winter Adventures on Lille Malene
Hiking in winter requires careful preparation. The terrain can be icy and snow-covered, so appropriate gear, including microspikes or crampons, is highly recommended. The views from the top, dusted with snow and under the crisp arctic sky, are truly spectacular and offer a different perspective than the summer months. It's a magical experience for those seeking a winter wonderland.
Even if you're not skiing, the area around Lille Malene is beautiful in winter. The contrast of the white snow against the rugged arctic landscape is striking. It's a great opportunity for winter photography and experiencing the serene beauty of Greenland during its colder season.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit