The Westfjords of Iceland offer a remote and rugged landscape, providing a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience for adventurous travelers. Here are some of the things you can do in the Westfjords!
Explore Ísafjörður
Start your journey in the vibrant town of Ísafjörður, the largest settlement in the Westfjords. Stroll through the charming streets lined with colorful houses, visit local shops and cafés, and learn about the region’s history at the Westfjords Heritage Museum.
Explore the Town
Take a leisurely stroll through the streets of Ísafjörður and soak in the town’s cozy atmosphere. Admire the colorful old houses, many of which date back to the 18th century, and enjoy the picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and fjord.
Westfjords Heritage Museum
Visit the Westfjords Heritage Museum (Vestfirðir SagaMuseum) to delve into the history and culture of the region. The museum exhibits artifacts and displays that provide insight into the local way of life, including fishing, farming, and the unique challenges faced by those living in this remote area.
Boat Tours and Fishing
Join a boat tour or fishing excursion from Ísafjörður and explore the stunning fjords and coastal areas of the Westfjords. Whether you’re interested in wildlife spotting, birdwatching, or trying your hand at angling, there are options available to suit different interests and preferences.
Hiking and Nature Walks
Ísafjörður is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, making it an ideal starting point for hikes and nature walks. Take a guided hike to nearby mountains, such as Kirkjubólsfjall or Mjólkurháls, and enjoy panoramic views of the fjords, valleys, and rugged landscapes.
Music and Cultural Events
Ísafjörður hosts various music and cultural events throughout the year, providing an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local arts scene. Keep an eye out for concerts, festivals, and theatrical performances that showcase the talents of local musicians and artists.
Látrabjarg Cliffs
Visit Látrabjarg, the westernmost point of Europe and home to one of the largest seabird colonies in the world. Observe puffins, guillemots, razorbills, and other bird species up close as they nest on the cliffs. The sheer height of the cliffs provides a breathtaking backdrop for photography.
The cliffs soar up to 440 meters (1,440 feet) above sea level, providing an awe-inspiring sight. The sheer height of the cliffs combined with the dramatic coastal backdrop creates a striking panorama that is sure to leave you speechless.
Látrabjarg Cliffs are home to an incredible variety of seabirds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Species such as puffins, razorbills, guillemots, kittiwakes, and fulmars nest in the steep cliffs, offering an opportunity to observe these fascinating creatures up close. Their vibrant colors and agile flight patterns add to the natural spectacle.
The dramatic setting and the abundance of birdlife make Látrabjarg an excellent location for photography enthusiasts. Capture stunning shots of birds in flight, nesting colonies clinging to the cliffs, or the striking contrast between the birds and the rugged landscape. The cliffs also provide an excellent vantage point for capturing breathtaking coastal views and the vastness of the North Atlantic Ocean.
Take a leisurely hike along the cliff’s edge to fully appreciate its grandeur and the diverse bird species that inhabit the area. Some sections of the cliffs are accessible for exploration, allowing you to venture closer while staying safe!
Dynjandi Waterfall
Dynjandi, also known as Fjallfoss or Thunderous Waterfall, is a magnificent waterfall located in the Westfjords region of Iceland. It is often considered one of the most impressive and beautiful waterfalls in the country.
Dynjandi is situated in the remote Dynjandisvogur Bay, near the town of Þingeyri in the Westfjords of Iceland. It is part of the Dynjandisheiði Nature Reserve.
To reach Dynjandi, you can drive along the winding roads of the Westfjords. From Ísafjörður, the largest town in the region, take Route 60 south towards Þingeyri. The waterfall is located about 60 km south of Ísafjörður. The drive offers stunning views of fjords, mountains, and coastal landscapes.
Dynjandi is a multi-tiered waterfall that cascades down a series of rocky steps, creating an impressive spectacle. The main waterfall has a height of approximately 100 meters (330 feet) and a width of about 30 meters (98 feet) at its widest point. The water plunges down the rocks with tremendous force, producing a roaring sound that gives the waterfall its name, which means “thunderous” in Icelandic.
Even More To Do in the Westfjords
The Westfjords offer ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Go hiking, trekking, or horseback riding along scenic trails, enjoy fishing in pristine rivers and fjords, or try your hand at sea kayaking and experience the coastal beauty from a different perspective!
Hornstrandir Nature Reserve
Immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Hornstrandir, a remote and uninhabited nature reserve. Explore the dramatic cliffs, hike along scenic trails, and observe the rich wildlife, including Arctic foxes, seabird colonies, and possibly even seals and whales.
Rauðasandur Beach
Experience the mesmerizing red sands of Rauðasandur Beach. Stretching over 10 kilometers, this secluded beach offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere. Take a leisurely walk along the shore, enjoy the tranquility, and marvel at the changing hues of the sand and the surrounding mountains.
Hot Pools and Natural Baths
Relax and unwind in the natural hot pools and baths scattered throughout the Westfjords. Soak in geothermal waters while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Some popular options include Reykjafjarðarlaug and Krossneslaug.
