The Westfjords remains one of Iceland’s least visited regions. This remote, sparsely populated peninsula offers dramatic fjords, towering cliffs, and preserved wilderness. Only about 10% of Iceland’s visitors make it here, leaving this region uncrowded and quiet. If you want to see Iceland in a more original state, the Westfjords is worth the journey.
Why Visit the Westfjords?
- Dramatic landscapes – Steep fjords, towering cliffs, isolated beaches
- Wildlife – Europe’s largest bird cliff, arctic foxes, seals
- Solitude – Far fewer tourists than other regions
- Hot springs – Natural pools in quiet settings
- Authentic villages – Fishing communities preserving traditions
- Midnight sun – Extended summer daylight for exploration
Getting There & Getting Around
Access Routes
From Reykjavik:
- Drive via Route 61 (4-5 hours to Ísafjörður)
- Baldur ferry from Stykkishólmur (Snæfellsnes) to Brjánslækur
- Flights to Ísafjörður (40 min)
Recommended: Combine driving and ferry for a circular route.
Driving Considerations
- Many roads are unpaved gravel
- Mountain passes can be challenging
- Some roads close in winter
- 4x4 not required but helpful
- Allow extra time for winding roads
Road Conditions: Check road.is before traveling. The Westfjords can be isolated when roads close.
Must-See Highlights
Dynjandi (Fjallfoss)
This 100-meter tiered cascade fans out broadly as it falls, sometimes compared to a bridal veil. The 15-minute hike to the main fall passes six smaller waterfalls, each with its own character.
Tips:
- Allow 1-2 hours
- Facilities at parking area
- Early morning for best photos
- Located on Route 60 between Þingeyri and Hrafnseyri
Látrabjarg Cliffs
Europe’s largest bird cliff stretches 14 kilometers and rises 441 meters at its highest point. In summer, millions of seabirds nest here, including puffins that allow remarkably close approach.
What to See:
- Puffins (mid-April to mid-August)
- Guillemots, razorbills, fulmars
- Dramatic cliff scenery
- Westernmost point of mainland Europe
Safety: Stay back from cliff edges, they can crumble without warning.
Rauðasandur Beach
One of Iceland’s most unique beaches, Rauðasandur stretches 10 kilometers with sand that shifts from gold to rust-red to pink depending on light and conditions. The remote location requires significant driving on gravel roads.
Nearby: The historic Saurbær church sits alone against the vast beach backdrop, one of Iceland’s most photographed spots.
Ísafjörður
The Westfjords’ capital (population ~2,700) sits on a dramatic spit surrounded by steep mountains. Despite its size, Ísafjörður offers:
- Excellent restaurants
- Cultural museums
- Kayaking and boat tours
- Base for Hornstrandir trips
- Charming historic center
Hornstrandir Nature Reserve
Iceland’s most remote wilderness area has no roads, no permanent residents, and no development. Arctic foxes are abundant and fearless of humans. Access is by boat from Ísafjörður or Bolungarvík.
Options:
- Day hikes from ferry drop-off points
- Multi-day treks (3-7 days)
- Guided expeditions
Hot Springs
Pollurinn in Tálknafjörður is a natural oceanside pool, wonderfully hot and free. Hellulaug near Flókalundur offers a beachside hot pot with fjord views. Krossneslaug sits at road’s end in a remote setting and requires a 4x4 to reach. Drangsnes has three free seaside hot pots in the village.
Scenic Drives
Route 60 (Dynjandi to Ísafjörður)
One of Iceland’s most dramatic drives, winding through fjords with countless photo stops. The road climbs mountain passes with panoramic views before descending to fishing villages.
Strandir Coast
The eastern Westfjords offers a different experience, isolated farms, the Museum of Icelandic Sorcery in Hólmavík, and access to Hornstrandir by boat.
Around Ísafjarðardjúp
The massive fjord reaching deep into the peninsula offers multiple small villages, mountain scenery, and the Vigur island puffin tours.
Towns & Villages
Patreksfjörður
- Gateway to Látrabjarg and Rauðasandur
- Full services (fuel, food, accommodation)
- Charming village atmosphere
Þingeyri
- First trading post in the Westfjords (1787)
- Historic center
- Near Dynjandi
- Simbahöllin café in restored warehouse
Flateyri
- Largest village in Önundarfjörður
- Historic avalanche defenses
- Old bookstore and café
Súðavík
- Arctic Fox Center
- Learn about Iceland’s only native mammal
- Rehabilitation center for injured foxes
Bolungarvík
- Second largest settlement after Ísafjörður
- Ósvör Maritime Museum
- Access point for Hornstrandir
Wildlife
Puffins
Best seen at Látrabjarg (May-August). These charismatic birds allow close photography, but never touch or feed them.
Arctic Foxes
Hornstrandir has the highest concentration. Elsewhere in the Westfjords, foxes are present but shy. The Arctic Fox Center in Súðavík offers guaranteed sightings.
Seals
Harbor seals and gray seals haul out on beaches and rocks throughout the region, especially around Vatnsfjörður and Breiðafjörður.
Whales
Breiðafjörður bay and waters around Ísafjörður host various whale species. Tours available from Ísafjörður.
Itinerary Suggestions
3-4 Days (Essential Westfjords)
Day 1: Ferry from Stykkishólmur → Rauðasandur → Patreksfjörður Day 2: Látrabjarg (morning for puffins) → Dynjandi → Þingeyri area Day 3: Drive to Ísafjörður → Town exploration Day 4: Return via Route 61 or continue exploring
5-7 Days (Comprehensive)
Add:
- Hornstrandir day trip or overnight
- Strandir coast exploration
- Extra time in each location
- Hot springs visits
- Vigur island for puffins
7-10 Days (In-Depth)
Experience everything above plus:
- Multi-day Hornstrandir trek
- All hot springs
- Kayaking excursions
- Photography time at each location
Best Time to Visit
| Month | Conditions | Wildlife |
|---|---|---|
| June | Long days, most roads open | Puffins arriving |
| July | Best weather, all roads open | Puffins nesting |
| August | Still good, puffins departing | Seals, whales |
| September | Fall colors, fewer tourists | Limited birds |
Note: The Westfjords is essentially a summer destination. Most services and roads are limited October-May.
Practical Information
Fuel
Fill up whenever possible. Stations in: Ísafjörður, Patreksfjörður, Þingeyri, Hólmavík. Long gaps between.
Accommodation
Book ahead in summer, options are limited. Mix of:
- Hotels (Ísafjörður, Patreksfjörður)
- Guesthouses throughout
- Farm stays
- Camping (designated sites)
Food
- Restaurants in larger towns
- Pack snacks for driving days
- Grocery stores in Ísafjörður and Patreksfjörður
Connectivity
Cell coverage is limited outside towns. Download offline maps. The disconnection can be part of the experience.
Ready to visit the Westfjords? Contact us to plan your trip to one of Iceland’s quieter and less-visited regions.
