16 Destinations to Experience Iceland’s Wild and Rugged Westfjords
Iceland’s Westfjords are pure, raw, untouched beauty. It is home to towering cliffs that drop into the icy blue sea, where waterfalls plunge down moss-covered slopes. This remote region isn’t always on every traveler’s itinerary, but those who do go here are treated to some otherworldly landscapes and a rare closeness to nature.
The Westfjords are a long way from the crowds of Reykjavik and the Golden Circle, and they encourage you to take things slower and move at your own pace. From driving along sinewy coastal roads and seeing puffins out on craggy cliffs to soaking in a hot spring in the dark midnight sun, all these destinations embrace the wildness of Iceland.
Gjögur Hot Springs
Gjögur is tucked away in the remote Strandir region, but the five natural hot springs that sit here offer an authentic true secret hideaway. Surrounded by rugged cliffs and open skies, it’s a perfect place to soak and then contemplate the raw beauty of the Westfjords.
Vigur Island
Vigur Island is a birdwatcher’s and history buff’s paradise, a short boat ride from Ísafjörður. This is an island where puffins, eider ducks, and Arctic terns live, and there is also Iceland’s smallest post office. It is a peaceful escape from the mainland.
Bolafjall Mountain
From the top of Bolafjall, you’ll feel like you’re on the edge of the world. The sight runs across jagged cliffs, the open sea, and on clear days, even Greenland. The short walks around the area are the real magic but getting to the summit involves a winding road.
Ísafjörður
Located between steep mountains and the sea, Ísafjörður is the unofficial capital of the Westfjords. The destination is famous for its music scene and peaceful, wooden houses, where you can make a good base to check out the fjords and hiking trails nearby. Don’t miss fresh local seafood from the icy waters.
Dynjandi Waterfall
Dynjandi is an astonishing waterfall parade often considered the jewel of the Westfjords. The biggest fall takes the shape of a bridal veil and falls 300 feet, the rest are smaller waterfalls that drip below. A short steep hike will get you to this natural wonder.
Látrabjarg Cliffs
Birdwatchers, rejoice! One of the largest seabird colonies in the world is found at Látrabjarg. Towering cliffs, where puffins, guillemots, and razorbills can be viewed, perch at Europe’s westernmost point. The birds are so used to humans that you can get very close to them for photographs.
Rauðasandur Beach
Rauðasandur is a stunning red-sand beach, unlike anything you’ll find in Iceland. Irregularities of light change its hues with time, presenting a surreal effect. Not only do seals lounge near the shore, but you can also spot them on the beach as well. However, be prepared to drive along a bumpy gravel road to get there.
Hornstrandir Nature Reserve
Hornstrandir is a remote wilderness that can only be reached by boat and is a great place for those wanting to get off the grid. There are no roads and no permanent residents, and this untouched landscape is perfect for multi-day hikes where you may see Arctic foxes or gaze at dramatic fjords untouched by modern development.
Patreksfjörður
This tiny fishing village offers a warm slice of local life. Patreksfjörður is a perfect place to relax, eat fresh seafood, or use as the starting point for nearby attractions like Rauðasandur or Látrabjarg surrounded by spectacular breathtaking fjords.
Drangsnes Hot Pots
Looking for something truly local? Along the shoreline in Drangsnes there are a series of hot pots. The geothermal pools are free to use and there is no better experience than warming up in water while watching the waves crashing on the rocks against the shore.
Reykhólar
This is a hidden gem for natural beauty and cultural history. Try a visit to the local seaweed spa, or go birdwatching nearby. Reykhólar is an underrated stop and one that deserves more attention if you are willing to take the road less traveled.
Tálknafjörður
Tálknafjörður is another small fishing village with hot springs looking down over a peaceful fjord. After a day of driving or hiking this is the place to settle down. The springs are hardly crowded, and yet they are highly valued.
Kaldbakur Mountain
The highest peak in the Westfjords is Kaldbakur and it is a challenging hike with amazing views as your reward. From the top, you’ll have a panorama of fjords, valleys, and the vast Atlantic Ocean. This is an Icelandic experience at its rugged best.
Vatnsfjörður Nature Reserve
For those who might want to get away from the crowds, this lesser-known reserve is a great choice. While its landscape is characterized by hills, glaciers, and glacial rivers, serene fjords give the region a rather cool vibe. Its peaceful trails are good for looking out for Arctic foxes and a variety of birdlife.
Arctic Fox Center
Located in Súðavík, this small but informative center is dedicated to Iceland’s only native mammal — the Arctic fox. Discover their ecology and history, and if you’re lucky, get to meet a rescued fox up close. It’s a must-go for animal lovers.
Hólmavík
Hólmavík is a great place to stop for those interested in folklore, thanks to the quirky Museum of Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft. Also a regional cultural highlight, the museum takes a dive into Iceland’s eerie history with spells and magic.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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