Iceland Travel Guide
Westfjords
Remote Fjords · Puffin Cliffs · Witch Trials · Dynjandi Falls
Did you know? Many abandoned farms in the Westfjords are believed to remain spiritually inhabited. Stories describe wandering spirits protecting old settlements deep inside the fjords.
History of the Westfjords
Remote fjords, dramatic cliffs, and Iceland's most untouched wilderness.
Top Attractions in the Westfjords
From thundering waterfalls to Europe's largest bird cliffs
Arnarfjörður
Arnarfjörður is a unique destination and attraction in Westfjords. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
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Bolafjall
Bolafjall is a remarkable natural wonder in Westfjords. This breathtaking natural attraction showcases the diverse and dramatic landscapes that make Iceland one of the world's most unique destinations. From its geological formations to its rich biodiversity, this site offers an unforgettable experience.
Learn more →Bíldudalur
Bíldudalur is a unique destination and attraction in Westfjords. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
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Private Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon 2 Day Tour & Glacier Hike
From $7240
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Drangajökull
Drangajökull is a unique destination and attraction in Westfjords. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
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Dynjandi
Dynjandi is a unique destination and attraction in Westfjords. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
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Flateyri
Flateyri is a unique destination and attraction in Westfjords. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
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Private Silfra Snorkeling 6 p. group - Meet on Location - with Underwater Photos
From $899
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Garðar BA 64
Garðar BA 64 is a historic site in Westfjords. This important landmark offers a fascinating window into Iceland's rich past. With roots stretching back to the Viking Age and beyond, the site preserves stories of the people and events that shaped modern Iceland.
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Hellulaug
Hellulaug is a geothermal attraction in Westfjords. Experience Iceland's powerful geothermal energy up close at this remarkable natural site. The area features hot springs, steam vents and mineral-rich waters that showcase the raw volcanic forces beneath Iceland's surface.
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Hornstrandir
Hornstrandir is a remarkable natural wonder in Westfjords. This breathtaking natural attraction showcases the diverse and dramatic landscapes that make Iceland one of the world's most unique destinations. From its geological formations to its rich biodiversity, this site offers an unforgettable experience.
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Private 2-Day Glacier Lagoon, Ice Cave and Northern Lights
From $7400
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Hrafnseyri
Hrafnseyri is a historic site in Westfjords. This important landmark offers a fascinating window into Iceland's rich past. With roots stretching back to the Viking Age and beyond, the site preserves stories of the people and events that shaped modern Iceland.
Learn more →Kirkjufellsfoss Westfjords
Kirkjufellsfoss Westfjords is a stunning waterfall located in Westfjords. This magnificent cascade showcases the raw power and beauty of Iceland's landscape. Fed by glacial meltwater and rainfall, the waterfall is a spectacular sight in all seasons, surrounded by dramatic lava rock formations.
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Krossneslaug
Krossneslaug is a geothermal attraction in Westfjords. Experience Iceland's powerful geothermal energy up close at this remarkable natural site. The area features hot springs, steam vents and mineral-rich waters that showcase the raw volcanic forces beneath Iceland's surface.
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Reykjavik Private Northern Lights Tour with Pro Photographer
From $1631.14
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Kálfshamarsvík
Kálfshamarsvík is a stunning beach located in Westfjords. This dramatic coastal area features Iceland's distinctive black volcanic sand, shaped by powerful ocean waves. The beach offers dramatic views of the sea and surrounding landscape, and is home to diverse marine wildlife including seals and seabirds.
Learn more →Kópanes
Kópanes is a remarkable natural wonder in Westfjords. This breathtaking natural attraction showcases the diverse and dramatic landscapes that make Iceland one of the world's most unique destinations. From its geological formations to its rich biodiversity, this site offers an unforgettable experience.
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Látrabjarg
Látrabjarg is a stunning beach located in Westfjords. This dramatic coastal area features Iceland's distinctive black volcanic sand, shaped by powerful ocean waves. The beach offers dramatic views of the sea and surrounding landscape, and is home to diverse marine wildlife including seals and seabirds.
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Glacier Adventure at Sólheimajökull Private Tour
From $381.38
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Museum of Icelandic Sorcery & Witchcraft
Museum of Icelandic Sorcery & Witchcraft is a cultural attraction in Westfjords. This museum offers visitors fascinating insights into Iceland's rich history and heritage. Explore captivating exhibitions and learn about the country's people, traditions and remarkable story from the age of the Vikings to today.
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Patreksfjörður
Patreksfjörður is a unique destination and attraction in Westfjords. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
Learn more →Rauðisandur
Rauðisandur is a stunning beach located in Westfjords. This dramatic coastal area features Iceland's distinctive black volcanic sand, shaped by powerful ocean waves. The beach offers dramatic views of the sea and surrounding landscape, and is home to diverse marine wildlife including seals and seabirds.
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Visit the Volcanoes - Half Day Private Tour - up to 9 passengers
From $1200
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Svalvogar is a unique destination and attraction in Westfjords. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
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Súðavík
Súðavík is a unique destination and attraction in Westfjords. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
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Tálknafjörður
Tálknafjörður is a vibrant neighborhood and destination in Westfjords. Explore the unique character and charm of this area, with its mix of culture, architecture and local life. From colorful buildings to local cafes and shops, this part of Iceland offers an authentic glimpse into daily Icelandic life.
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Westfjords Heritage Museum
Westfjords Heritage Museum is a cultural attraction in Westfjords. This museum offers visitors fascinating insights into Iceland's rich history and heritage. Explore captivating exhibitions and learn about the country's people, traditions and remarkable story from the age of the Vikings to today.
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Ísafjarðardjúp
Ísafjarðardjúp is a remarkable natural wonder in Westfjords. This breathtaking natural attraction showcases the diverse and dramatic landscapes that make Iceland one of the world's most unique destinations. From its geological formations to its rich biodiversity, this site offers an unforgettable experience.
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Ísafjörður
Ísafjörður is a unique destination and attraction in Westfjords. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
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Ósvör Maritime Museum
Ósvör Maritime Museum is a cultural attraction in Westfjords. This museum offers visitors fascinating insights into Iceland's rich history and heritage. Explore captivating exhibitions and learn about the country's people, traditions and remarkable story from the age of the Vikings to today.
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Önundarfjörður
Önundarfjörður is a unique destination and attraction in Westfjords. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
Learn more →Hidden Gems in the Westfjords
Remote treasures in Iceland's most isolated region
Hrafnseyri - Jón Sigurðsson's Birthplace
Hrafnseyri is a tiny hamlet in Arnarfjörður fjord, birthplace of Jón Sigurðsson (1811–1879), the leader of Iceland's independence movement. Though he spent most of his life in Copenhagen, Jón is considered the father of Icelandic independence for his tireless work advocating for Iceland's autonomy from Danish rule. Iceland's national holiday, June 17th, marks his birthday. The small museum at Hrafnseyri tells his story and that of the isolated farming community where he grew up. The chapel nearby, built in 1886, is one of the most photographed churches in Iceland due to its dramatic fjord setting. The drive to Hrafnseyri takes you along the stunning Dynjandi road, making it easy to combine with a visit to the waterfall. This is a place where Icelandic history comes alive amid the remote beauty of the Westfjords.
Drangajökull Glacier
Drangajökull is the only glacier in the Westfjords and the northernmost glacier in Iceland. Covering about 160 square kilometers, it sits atop a mountain plateau reaching elevations of 925 meters. Unlike Iceland's larger glaciers (Vatnajökull, Langjökull, Hofsjökull), Drangajökull is much less visited and far more difficult to access, requiring either a long hike or a guided tour. The glacier feeds several rivers that cascade down the surrounding mountains in spectacular waterfalls. Interestingly, while most of Iceland's glaciers are retreating rapidly due to climate change, Drangajökull has been relatively stable — and in some years has even grown slightly — because its high northern latitude keeps temperatures cool. Hiking to the glacier requires experience and preparation, but those who make the journey are rewarded with pristine ice formations and complete solitude in one of Iceland's most remote corners.
Reykjanes (Westfjords) Hot Spring
Not to be confused with the Reykjanes Peninsula near Keflavík, this Reykjanes is a tiny settlement on the remote Strandir coast in the northern Westfjords — and it's home to one of Iceland's most remote and magical natural hot springs. The geothermal pool sits right on the edge of the ocean on a black pebble beach, surrounded by towering cliffs. The water temperature hovers around 38°C (100°F) year-round, and bathing here while watching the midnight sun or Northern Lights is an unforgettable experience. There's also a small guesthouse and camping area. The drive to Reykjanes on Route 643 is an adventure in itself — a narrow, winding gravel road that hugs the coast and crosses several mountain passes. This area is so remote that it sees only a handful of visitors per day even in summer. If you want to experience Iceland's geothermal culture in the most isolated, authentic setting possible, this is it.
Westfjords Legends & Dark History
The Westfjords hold a dark distinction in Icelandic history: this remote region was the site of Iceland's witch trial era — and unlike the rest of Europe where women were most often the accused, in the Westfjords it was almost exclusively men who were burned.
Between 1654 and 1690, about 120 people in Iceland were accused of sorcery. Of those, 25 were executed — 21 of them men. Most executions took place at Þingeyri and Ísafjörður. The accused were charged with carving magical staves (galdrastafir) — symbolic diagrams believed to have supernatural power — and using them to harm neighbours, bring illness, and control the weather.
Beyond the witch trials, the remote valleys and abandoned farmsteads of the Westfjords are steeped in stories of outlaws, ghosts, and hidden people. The saga of Gísla saga Súrssonar is set here — the story of a Viking outlaw who spent 13 years hiding in the Westfjords before his death, visited nightly in his dreams by both a good and an evil woman.
The Witch Trials
Iceland's witch hunts claimed mostly men — burned at the stake in Þingeyri for using magical staves.
Magical Staves
Galdrastafir — carved symbolic diagrams believed to control weather, health, luck and enemies.
Outlaws & Ghosts
Remote valleys haunted by outlawed Vikings and restless spirits — Gísla saga Súrssonar is set here.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do I need for the Westfjords?▾
At least 3–4 days to cover the main sights. The distances are long and roads are slow — rushing the Westfjords defeats the purpose. Consider 5–7 days for a proper exploration.
Do I need a 4x4 for the Westfjords?▾
Many roads are gravel and can be rough, especially in summer after spring thaw. A high-clearance vehicle is strongly recommended. Some routes require 4x4.
What is the best time to visit the Westfjords?▾
June to August for accessible roads and puffins at Látrabjarg (present until mid-August). Winter is dramatic but many roads may be closed.
Can I see puffins at Látrabjarg?▾
Yes — Látrabjarg hosts Europe's largest puffin colony. Puffins are present from June to mid-August. You can get extremely close as they nest in cliff burrows right beside the path.
Is the journey to the Westfjords worth the effort?▾
Absolutely — the Westfjords are Iceland's best-kept secret. The dramatic fjords, world-class bird watching, and dark folklore make it unforgettable for those willing to go the extra distance.
Haunted Places in the Westfjords
The isolation of the Westfjords created some of Iceland's most mysterious folklore traditions. Many abandoned farms here are believed to remain spiritually inhabited long after their people left.
Hornstrandir Nature Reserve
Stories describe wandering spirits protecting abandoned settlements deep inside this remote reserve at the edge of the Arctic.
Dynjandi Waterfall
Travelers once believed protective spirits lived within the mist of this spectacular multi-tiered waterfall.
Látrabjarg Cliffs
The world's largest seabird cliffs were believed to be guarded by spirits who guided fishermen safely home through dangerous seas.
Rauðisandur Beach
Local tradition says the shifting colors of this red-sand beach reflect the moods of sea spirits watching from the deep.
🌌 See the Northern Lights
Track real-time aurora activity and plan your Northern Lights trip with AuroraVision.
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🚐 Getting Around Iceland
Airport Transfers & Sightseeing Rides
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⚔️ Viking Heritage
Saga sites and Viking routes in this region
