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
The Westfjords are one of Iceland’s most remote and dramatic regions, known for deep fjords, towering sea cliffs, quiet fishing villages, and vast untouched wilderness. Located in the northwest of the country, the region offers spectacular coastal scenery, abundant birdlife, and some of Iceland’s most peaceful travel experiences far from the main tourist routes.
🗺️ Travel Guides for the Westfjords
In-depth destination guides written by local experts
Hornstrandir
Step into a world untouched by time in Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, Iceland's most remote and breathtaking wilderness. This pristine peninsula, characterized by towering sea cliffs and vibrant green slopes, offers an unparalleled escape into raw, untamed nature.
Explore Hornstrandir →
Ísafjörður
Ísafjörður, the unofficial capital of Iceland's Westfjords, is a captivating town nestled deep within a dramatic fjord. Surrounded by towering mountains and serene blue waters, it offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. It's a gateway to the rugged, untamed wilderness of this remote region.
Explore Ísafjörður →
Látrabjarg
Látrabjarg, Europe's largest bird cliff and its westernmost point, is a magnificent natural wonder where millions of seabirds nest annually. This dramatic coastline, as captured in the image, offers an unparalleled spectacle of nature's raw power and vibrant wildlife. It's a truly unique destination for adventurers and bird enthusiasts alike.
Explore Látrabjarg →
Patreksfjörður
Nestled on the tranquil shores of a magnificent fjord and hugged by imposing cliffs, Patreksfjörður is a charming fishing village in the remote Westfjords. It serves as a perfect gateway to some of Iceland's most dramatic natural wonders, offering a serene escape amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Explore Patreksfjörður →Top Attractions in the Westfjords
From thundering waterfalls to Europe's largest bird cliffs
Samúel Jónsson Art Museum (Selárdalur)
The Samúel Jónsson Art Museum in Selárdalur is one of Iceland’s most unusual hidden gems. Built by local farmer and self-taught artist Samúel Jónsson, the site includes handmade concrete sculptures, arches, towers, and a small church surrounded by the quiet landscapes of the Westfjords. Often described as outsider art, the area has a dreamlike atmosphere and offers a unique cultural stop for travelers exploring this remote region. The site is open-air and freely accessible.
Learn more →
Hólmavík Campsite
Hólmavík is a village in Strandasýsla that houses the Museum of Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft — the only museum in the world dedicated to magic and sorcerers. The campsite overlooks the sea and is a natural stopping point when travelling through Strandasýsla and the southern Westfjords.
Learn more →
Hornstrandir Coastal Route
Remote wilderness hiking route in Hornstrandir Nature Reserve.
Learn more →Hornstrandir Coastal Trail
Remote wilderness hiking route in Iceland's most isolated nature reserve.
Learn more →
Private Silfra Snorkeling 6 p. group - Meet on Location - with Underwater Photos
From $899
Book Now
Hrafnseyri Trail
Historic walking route near birthplace of Jon Sigurdsson.
Learn more →Latrafjall Bird Cliffs Trail
Walk along Europe's largest bird cliffs.
Learn more →Latrafjarg Cliff Trail
Walk along Europe's largest seabird cliffs.
Learn more →
Patreksfjörður Campsite
Patreksfjörður is the largest town on the Westfjords Horn and the main gateway to Látrabjarg — the longest bird cliff in Europe. The campsite is in town and is the perfect base for seeing puffins, razorbills and guillemots. The famous red-sand beach of Rauðasandur is also nearby.
Learn more →
Private Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon 2 Day Tour & Glacier Hike
From $7240
Book Now
Pollurinn (Tálknafjörður)
Pollurinn is a natural geothermal pool located on the shore of Tálknafjörður fjord in the Westfjords. The pool is fed by a hot spring and offers stunning fjord views. One of the most scenic hot springs in Iceland.
Learn more →
Arnardalur
Arnardalur, the Valley of the Eagle, in Iceland's Westfjords, is steeped in folklore. Legends tell of giants who once roamed these dramatic landscapes, their stories echoing in the wind that sweeps through the rugged terrain. Explore this mystical valley and feel the ancient power of the land.
Learn more →
Árneskirkja - gamla
Árneskirkja er elsta hús í Strandasýslu, vígð 1850 (1). Hún er smíðuð að mestu úr rekavið og henni er vel við haldið (2). Altaristafla kirkjunnar er eftir Carl Fries (1859) og ljósahjálmur og skírnarskál eru mjög gömul (1). Kaleikurinn sem upphaflega var í kirkjunni er frá 1786 en hefur hann nú verið sendur á Þjóðminjasafnið (2). „Þakið er krossreist og upp af framstafni er ferstrendur turn með píramídaþaki. Kirkjan er klædd listaþili en þök bárujárni. Hún stendur á steinhlöðnum sökkli og er stöguð niður á hornum og miðri suðurhlið“ (2).
Learn more →
Arngerðareyri
Arngerðareyri er staðsett við Ísafjarðardjúp. „Húsið, sem einnig er þekkt undir nafninu gamli kastalinn, á sér langa og mikla sögu en það var byggt árið 1928 þegar lífið á Arngerðareyri var í miklum blóma. Þar hélt verslun Á. Ásgeirssonar á Ísafirði úti þjónustu og Kaupfélag Nauteyrarhrepps rak þar sláturhús. (...) Hjónin Claudia og Matthias frá Þýskalandi festu kaup á húsinu fyrir nokkrum árum og eru að gera það upp“ (1). Síðasta galdrabrennan á Íslandi fór fram árið 1683 við Arngerðareyri í Ísafjarðardjúpi (2).
Learn more →
Private 2-Day Glacier Lagoon, Ice Cave and Northern Lights
From $7400
Book NowÁsgarðshólar
Journey to Ásgarðshólar in the Westfjords, a place steeped in local folklore and the legend of the giant Ásberg. These striking basalt columns are said to be the petrified remains of his mighty steps, a testament to Iceland's mythical past.
Learn more →Ásmundarhóll
Ásmundarhóll is a site of historical and cultural significance in westfjords, connected to Iceland's rich tradition of folklore, sagas, and ancient stories passed down through generations.
Learn more →
Auðarbær
Journey to Auðarbær, a historically significant Viking-age site in Iceland's rugged Westfjords, where the sagas come to life. Discover turf-roofed longhouses nestled by a tranquil fjord, surrounded by majestic mountains, offering a glimpse into the lives of early Norse settlers like Auður, wife of Gísli Súrsson.
Learn more →Austmannafallabrekka
Austmannafallabrekka is a site of historical and cultural significance in westfjords, connected to Iceland's rich tradition of folklore, sagas, and ancient stories passed down through generations.
Learn more →
Reykjavík All In One Food Tour - Eat, Drink & Explore with Locals
From $207.37
Book NowBúðarvogur
„Þegar gengið er út á Bjarnarnes og með sjónum að Búðarvogi verður enginn ósortinn af krafti hafsins og kyrrðinni sem fylgir því að ganga um ósnortna náttúru. Hér kom landnámsmaðurinn Bjarni að landi og því var nesið og fjörðurinn nefnt eftir honum. Þorkelshaugur er steinhrúga sem stingur í stúf hér á klöppunum en hér eru tveir smalar heygðir en þeir drógu hvor annan til dauða í rifrildi um eignarrétt á Bjarnarnesi. Við Búðarvog er enn hægt að sjá rústir af fornum verbúðum.“
Learn more →
Búlká
Búlká is a site of historical and cultural significance in westfjords, connected to Iceland's rich tradition of folklore, sagas, and ancient stories passed down through generations.
Learn more →Búlkárós
Búlkárós is a site of historical and cultural significance in westfjords, connected to Iceland's rich tradition of folklore, sagas, and ancient stories passed down through generations.
Learn more →
Dagverðardalur
Dagverðardalur is a site of historical and cultural significance in westfjords, connected to Iceland's rich tradition of folklore, sagas, and ancient stories passed down through generations.
Learn more →
Glacier Adventure at Sólheimajökull Private Tour
From $385.11
Book Now
Dagverðarnes
Dagverðarnes is a site of historical and cultural significance in westfjords, connected to Iceland's rich tradition of folklore, sagas, and ancient stories passed down through generations.
Learn more →Digrimúli (nú Fróðármúli)
Digrimúli (nú Fróðármúli) is a site of historical and cultural significance in westfjords, connected to Iceland's rich tradition of folklore, sagas, and ancient stories passed down through generations.
Learn more →Dímunarvogur
Dímunarvogur is a site of historical and cultural significance in westfjords, connected to Iceland's rich tradition of folklore, sagas, and ancient stories passed down through generations.
Learn more →Diskæðarsker
Diskæðarsker í Reykhólahreppi tilheyrir Flateyjar-löndum á Breiðafirði og er á náttúruminjaskrá Vestfjarða vegna jarðfræðilegrar sérstöðu sinnar (1). Í eynni er flikruberg auk þess sem vísbendingar eru um jarðhita upp á 20 - 30°C. Yfir sumartímann litast pollar í eynni fagurgrænir. „Ástæðan eru mikil næringarefni, aðallega vegna saurs frá sjófuglum, sem örva vöxt þörungagróðurs“ (2).
Learn more →
Reykjavik Private Northern Lights Tour with Pro Photographer
From $1647.1
Book Now
Djúpavíkurfoss
Tucked away in the rugged Westfjords, Djúpavíkurfoss offers a raw, untamed beauty. This powerful waterfall plunges down dark basalt cliffs, creating a mesmerizing spectacle against the dramatic coastal landscape. Its secluded location ensures a serene and unforgettable encounter with Iceland's wild heart.
Learn more →Djúpavíkurhringur - gönguleið
Lengd göngunnar er 5 km og er um hringleið að ræða. Tekur gangan um 1½ klst og er hækkun á meðan á henni stendur frá 20 upp í 100 m. „Gengið er eftir slóða frá gömlu síldarverksmiðjunni í Djúpavík, upp nokkuð bratt gil í hlíðinni sem nefnist Oddnýjargjá og upp á breiðan klettahjalla sem kallaður er Lægribrún.“ „Gengið er á brúnunum til austurs og er útsýnið fagurt yfir Reykjarfjörð. Fram af brúninni fellur Djúpavíkurá niður klettana í fossi sem kallast Djúpavíkurfoss (...) Leiðin er greið fram hjallann og þegar halla fer undan fæti er stefnan tekin niður á þjóðveginn og hann er genginn til baka til Djúpavíkur.“
Learn more →
Djúpidalur
Djúpidalur is a site of historical and cultural significance in westfjords, connected to Iceland's rich tradition of folklore, sagas, and ancient stories passed down through generations.
Learn more →
Djúpifjörður
Fjörur, fitjar og sjávartjarnir í Djúpafirði í Reykhólahreppi eru víðlendar og lífauðugar með miklu fuglalífi (1). Um er að ræða fallegan fjörð með skemmtilegum gönguleiðum, m.a. að Hallsteinsnesi. Þá er gengið eftir vegslóða sunnan megin fjarðarins þar til komið er yst á nesið. Möguleikar eru á að sjá haförn á flugi á þessum slóðum (2).
Learn more →Dönustaðir
Dönustaðir is a site of historical and cultural significance in westfjords, connected to Iceland's rich tradition of folklore, sagas, and ancient stories passed down through generations.
Learn more →
Drangar á Skógarströnd
Where the formidable cliffs of Drangar á Skógarströnd plunge into the serene Westfjords waters, ancient Icelandic folklore comes alive. This stunning coastal landscape, with its layered rock formations and dark sea stacks, is steeped in sagas and mythical tales.
Learn more →
Drangaskörð
Einstaklega falleg röð af risavöxnum klettadröngum sem sumir telja eitt helsta einkenni Stranda og Árneshrepps (1). Drangaskörð gnæfa yfir, norðan Drangavíkur, og eru eitt af sérkennilegustu náttúrufyrirbærum landsins. Skörðin eru áberandi þar sem þau rísa upp úr landinu (2) og eru nokkurskonar stórskorinn klettarani með djúpum skörðum, mótaður af rofi jökla frá ísöld (3). „Best er að njóta útsýnis að dröngunum úr hæfilegri fjarlægð, til dæmis frá Munaðarnesi, eða Eyrarhálsi. Um 1 klst sigling er að dröngunum frá Norðurfirði“ (4).
Learn more →
Drangsnes
Meðfram grjótvarnargarði í fjörunni eru þrír heitir pottar (þ.m.t. eitt fiskikar) á trépalli. Vatnið kemur úr borholu og er um 40°C. Heitt vatn fannst á Drangsnesi 1997 og byrjuðu heimamenn að útbúa staðinn nokkrum dögum seinna (1). „Pottarnir eru á góðum stað í fjörunni í miðju þorpi, við hliðina á skemmtilegum klettadröngum. Pottarnir eru frábærir á öllum árstíðum og tímum dags. Frá þeim er gott útsýni út á fjörð og út í Grímsey og oft má sjá hvali þar og fjölskrúðugt fuglalíf. Það er búnings- og sturtuaðstaða“ (2).
Learn more →
Drápuhlíð
Drápuhlíð is a site of historical and cultural significance in westfjords, connected to Iceland's rich tradition of folklore, sagas, and ancient stories passed down through generations.
Learn more →
Dritsker
Dritsker is a site of historical and cultural significance in westfjords, connected to Iceland's rich tradition of folklore, sagas, and ancient stories passed down through generations.
Learn more →Dufgusdalur
Dufgusdalur is a site of historical and cultural significance in westfjords, connected to Iceland's rich tradition of folklore, sagas, and ancient stories passed down through generations.
Learn more →
Dýrafjörður
Dýrafjörður is a site of historical and cultural significance in westfjords, connected to Iceland's rich tradition of folklore, sagas, and ancient stories passed down through generations.
Learn more →
Eiði
Eiði is a site of historical and cultural significance in westfjords, connected to Iceland's rich tradition of folklore, sagas, and ancient stories passed down through generations.
Learn more →
Einhamar
Einhamar is a site of historical and cultural significance in westfjords, connected to Iceland's rich tradition of folklore, sagas, and ancient stories passed down through generations.
Learn more →Einreykjastígur á Reykhólum - gönguleið
Gönguleið liggur frá Grettislaug um Einreykjastíg að Einreykjahver. Gengið er eftir malarstíg og trébrúm yfir votlendi, þar sem er fjölskrúðugt fuglalíf. Farið er meðfram skurði og læk, að söluskálanum Arnhól (1). Gönguleiðin liggur í hring og er um 3,5 km. Gangan tekur um 1,5 klst. Komið er við í fuglaskoðunarhúsi þar sem meðal annars hafa sést uglur, flórgoðar, lómar og ernir (2).
Learn more →Eiríksvogur
Eiríksvogur is a site of historical and cultural significance in westfjords, connected to Iceland's rich tradition of folklore, sagas, and ancient stories passed down through generations.
Learn more →
Eyrarkirkja í Seyðisfirði
Eyrarkirkja, a beautiful light-blue timber church with a striking red roof, stands serenely amidst green fields and ancient gravestones in the remote Westfjords. Built in 1866, this privately-owned 'farmers' church' is a testament to Icelandic heritage, backed by snow-dusted mountains and the calm waters of the fjord. Its humble exterior belies a rich history and precious artifacts within.
Learn more →Fagridalur - gönguleið
„Fyrir utan Stóra-Laugardal er bærinn Kvígindisfell sem talin er landnámsjörð Þorbjörns tálkna. Milli bæjanna er Fagridalur og þar er ein af mörgum leiðum milli Tálknafjarðar og Arnarfjarðar og kemur gönguleiðin niður í Fífustaðadal í Arnarfirði. Hún er ómerkt neðan til en framar í dalnum má sjá greinilegar vörður við slóðann og auðvelt að fara eftir leiðinni yfir fjallið. Gangan yfir Fagradal tekur 6-7 klst og er tiltölulega létt en liggur í um 500 m hæð þar sem hún er hæst“ (1). Sé ganga hafin Arnarfjarðarmegin er gengið frá bænum Kirkjubóli í Fífustaðadal þar sem gengið er framhjá eyðibýlunum Klúku og Öskubrekku (2).
Learn more →Galtahryggjarlaug
Laugin er 2x4 metrar að stærð og um 0,5 m djúp. Vatnið er um 40°C. „Galtahryggjarlaug er í vel grónu umhverfi. Hún er grjóthlaðin og fyrirhleðsla úr torfi og grjóti. Botninn er fínsteinóttur og gruggast laugin því lítið við notkun.“ Lítill búningsklefi er við laugina. „Svæðið í kringum laugina er á náttúruminjaskrá og rústir eyðibýlisins Galtahryggjar eru á fornminjaskrá“ (1). Gæta þarf þess að fara ekki á bíl að lauginni vegna viðkvæms umhverfis (2).
Learn more →Galtará - gönguleið
Galtará er skemmtilegur áningarstaður. Hægt að taka létta göngu upp með ánni þar sem líta má nokkra skemmtilega foss (1). Ef haldið er áfram, yfir Gufudalsháls, þá er endað hjá gömlu timburkirkjunni í Gufudal. Gufudalsháls var í alfaraleið fram undir miðja 20. öldina, áður en vegurinn fyrir Skálanes var lagður. Þetta var erfið leið og ferðamenn urðu að teyma hesta sína upp og niður sneiðingana (2). Á leiðinni er frábært útsýni er yfir Breiðafjörð (3).
Learn more →Gamla laugin í Reykjanesi - gönguleið
„Gamla laugin í Reykjanesi er staðsett rétt innan við Reykjanesskóla. Laugin hefur látið mikið á sjá í tímans rás. Lítið vatn er í henni og hornsíli og vaðfuglar hafa nú komið sér þar fyrir. Þó má vel sjá hversu mikið mannvirki hún hefur verið.“ Rétt hjá lauginni er kolahver en þar var fyrst hlaðin torflaug árið 1889. Laugin var síðar stækkuð og steypt. Í henni fór fram sundkennsla á hverju vori fram til ársins 1927 þegar nýja laugin var tekin í notkun.
Learn more →Gamla síldarverksmiðjan á Eyri
„Árið 1915 hófu Norðmenn síldarsöltun í Ingólfsfirði. Íslenskir athafnmenn tóku síðan við og voru mest umsvif sumarið 1919 þegar saltað var á mörgum stöðvum við fjörðinn. Við verðfall á afurðunum var þeim rekstri sjálfhætt. Aftur var byrjað að salta um 1930 og lítil síldarbræðsla byggð 1936-1937 og á árunum 1942-1944 reisti Ingólfur hf. reisti síldarverksmiðju á Eyri. Verksmiðjureksturinn lagðist svo af 1952“ (1). Eftir stendur „stórmögnuð bygging í sérlega fallegri og áhugaverðri niðurníðslu.“ Alls konar minjar og menjar eru allt í kring en akvegurinn inn í Ingólfsfjörð liggur í gegnum verksmiðjuna. Hjá verksmiðjunni er einnig Kríuvarp (2).
Learn more →
Gátt
Gáttin er „skemmtileg útsýnisbygging þar sem hægt er að sjá til ýmissa átta. Eldstæði er í miðri byggingunni þar sem má kveikja lítinn varðeld“ (1). Gáttin var byggð af „nemendum og kennurum í Arkitektadeild Listaháskóla Íslands í samvinnu við Dag Eggertsson arkitekt“ (2). Gott útsýni er yfir Bjarnarfjörð frá verkinu (3).
Learn more →Geirþjófsfjörður
Geirþjófsfjörður is a site of historical and cultural significance in westfjords, connected to Iceland's rich tradition of folklore, sagas, and ancient stories passed down through generations.
Learn more →
Gemlufall
Gemlufall is a site of historical and cultural significance in westfjords, connected to Iceland's rich tradition of folklore, sagas, and ancient stories passed down through generations.
Learn more →
Gemlufallsheiði
Gemlufallsheiði is a site of historical and cultural significance in westfjords, connected to Iceland's rich tradition of folklore, sagas, and ancient stories passed down through generations.
Learn more →Grýlufoss og Hrafnaklettar við Tröllatungu
Witness the raw power of Grýlufoss as it tumbles down rugged Westfjords terrain, framed by the imposing Hrafnaklettar cliffs. This hidden gem offers a dramatic and less-traveled experience, showcasing Iceland's untamed natural beauty.
Learn more →
Gufudalur
Gufudalur is a site of historical and cultural significance in westfjords, connected to Iceland's rich tradition of folklore, sagas, and ancient stories passed down through generations.
Learn more →
Gufufjörður
Gufufjörður is a site of historical and cultural significance in westfjords, connected to Iceland's rich tradition of folklore, sagas, and ancient stories passed down through generations.
Learn more →
Gullfoss
Prepare to be mesmerized by Gullfoss, a truly iconic Icelandic waterfall. This magnificent cascade plunges in two dramatic stages into a rugged canyon, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle of raw natural power and mist. On sunny days, the spray often paints rainbows across the landscape, adding to its magical allure.
Learn more →
Gunnarsstaðir
Gunnarsstaðir is a site of historical and cultural significance in westfjords, connected to Iceland's rich tradition of folklore, sagas, and ancient stories passed down through generations.
Learn more →Gunnustaðagróf
Gunnustaðagróf er á Selströnd, við norðanverðan Steingrímsfjörð. Víða á ströndinni hefur fundist surtarbrandur en þó einna mestur í Gunnustaðagróf. „Þar stóð til að vinna surtarbrand í stórum stíl til eldsneytis árið 1918 en lítið varð úr framkvæmdum“ (1). Til að komast að grófinni er „gengið upp með landamerkjalæk (Winklerfoss) upp þrjá hjalla“ (2).
Learn more →
Gvendarbrunnur
„Í landi Kálfaness þar sem Hólmavíkurþorp stendur er Gvendarbrunnur. Hann var vígður af Guðmundi biskup Arasyni eins og aragrúi af öðrum uppsprettum, brunnum, lindum, lækjum, laugum, klettum og skriðum á Ströndum. Varð vatnið í Gvendarbrunni í Kálfanesi svo heilagt að það mátti bera það í línhúfu yfir Steingrímsfjörð án þess að hún læki, eftir því sem fram kemur í Biskupasögum. Var vatnið meðal annars notað í lækningaskyni og til að glíma við erfiðustu drauga og forynjur fyrr á öldum“.
Learn more →
Hælavíkurbjarg
Hælavíkurbjarg er fuglabjarg á Hornströndum. „Þverhníptur hamraveggur (258 m y.s.) milli Hælavíkur og Hornvíkur. Heitir bjargið eftir klettadrangi í sjónum fyrir framan bjargið og nefnist Hæll. Annar drangur við hlið hans heitir Göltur“ (1). Hælavíkurbjarg er „ekki eins frægt og nágranninn Hornbjarg, en samt talsvert vinsælt og mjög tilkomumikið“ (2). Hafa þarf í huga að aðgengi er erfitt og innviðir engir, sem kallar á reynslu, þrek og búnað til útiveru, en allra veðra von er á svæðinu (3).
Learn more →
Hafnarvaðall
„Hafnarvaðall í Örlygshöfn er það vatnsfall við utanverðan Patreksfjörð sem hefur stærst vatnasvið. Lindir eru þó ekki eins áberandi þar og beggja vegna við, í Hænuvík og Vatnsdal“ (1). Við Hafnarvaðal eru „sérlega fallegar fjörur með miklu fuglalífi“ (2). Leirur og skeljasandsfjörur Hafnarvaðals og Tungurifs eru á náttúruminjaskrá Vestfjarða vegna þess fjölskrúðuga lífríkis sem þar er að finna (3).
Learn more →
Hafragil
Hafragil is a site of historical and cultural significance in westfjords, connected to Iceland's rich tradition of folklore, sagas, and ancient stories passed down through generations.
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.
✈️ Book with Trip.com
Complete Travel Services
🚐 Getting Around Iceland
Airport Transfers & Sightseeing Rides
Pre-book a private transfer from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík, or explore Iceland by private sightseeing ride. Fixed prices, professional local drivers, instant confirmation.
Explore More of Iceland
GoIceTravel
Travel Guides & Tips
In-depth guides, planning tips and local insights — everything you need for your Iceland trip.
Explore All Travel Guides →
