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
Top Attractions in the Westfjords
From thundering waterfalls to Europe's largest bird cliffs
Akölluver — Westfjords Hot Pot
Akölluver is a simple geothermal hot pot set in a remote valley in the southern Westfjords, fed by natural springs with no facilities and no fee. One of Iceland's most peaceful and isolated natural bathing spots.
Learn more →Arnarfjörður Scenic Route
One of the most dramatic fjord drives in Iceland — deep, steep-sided and steeped in sea monster folklore. The drive offers numerous stops for photography, short walks, and moments of wonder at the beauty of the Icelandic landscape.
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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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Private Silfra Snorkeling 6 p. group - Meet on Location - with Underwater Photos
From $899
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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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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 →Bolungarvík Village
Bolungarvík is located at the end of Route 61 in the Westfjords.
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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.
Learn more →Drangshlíð & Surroundings
The Drangshlíð area offers some of the most dramatic landscape in the Westfjords, with steep mountain ridges rising above Ísafjarðardjúp. Hiking trails connect remote valleys and summits with panoramic views over Iceland's deepest fjord system.
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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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Private 2-Day Glacier Lagoon, Ice Cave and Northern Lights
From $7400
Book NowDynjandi (Fjallfoss) Waterfall
Dynjandi (Thunderous) is the most spectacular waterfall in the Westfjords. The main fall drops 100 meters in a beautiful bridal-veil cascade that widens from 30m to 60m. Below are six smaller waterfalls creating a series.
Learn more →Dynjandi (Fjallfoss) Waterfall
Dynjandi (meaning 'Thunderous') is the most impressive waterfall in the Westfjords and one of Iceland's most beautiful. The main fall drops 100 meters in a cascading bridal-veil formation that widens from 30 meters at the top to 60 meters at the bottom. Six smaller waterfalls tumble below it, creating a series of cascades.
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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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Reykjavik Private Northern Lights Tour with Pro Photographer
From $1666.73
Book NowFlateyri Village
Flateyri is located in Önundarfjörður, Western Westfjords.
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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.
Learn more →Garðar BA 64 Shipwreck
Garðar BA 64 is beached at Patreksfjörður harbor, Westfjords.
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Glacier Adventure at Sólheimajökull Private Tour
From $389.7
Book NowGautavík Hot Spring
Gautavík is located near Ísafjörður in the Westfjords.
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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.
Learn more →Hornstrandir Nature Reserve
Iceland's most remote wilderness — roadless peninsula accessible only by boat or foot, home to Arctic foxes and seabird cliffs. Shaped by volcanic activity, glacial erosion, and the forces of wind and water over millennia, this natural attraction draws visitors who come to witness landscapes found nowhere else. The area provides excellent opportunities for photography, hiking, and connecting with Iceland's pristine wilderness.
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Visit the Volcanoes - Half Day Private Tour - up to 9 passengers
From $1200
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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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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.
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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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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.
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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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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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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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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.
Learn more →Látrabjarg Puffin Cliffs
Látrabjarg is located at the western tip of the Westfjords.
Learn more →Látrabjarg Cliffs
Látrabjarg is one of Iceland's most spectacular natural wonders - a 14km long cliff face rising up to 440 meters above the crashing Atlantic waves. This is Europe's largest bird cliff and the westernmost point of Iceland. During summer, millions of puffins, razorbills, and other seabirds nest here, creating one of the world's great birdwatching sites.
Learn more →Norðurfjörður Village
A remote village at the northern edge of Strandir, gateway to Krossneslaug hot pool and dramatic coastal hiking. The village provides a peaceful base for exploring the natural attractions of the region.
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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.
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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.
Learn more →Ósvör Maritime Museum
Ósvör is located near Bolungarvík town, Westfjords.
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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 →Rauðasandur Red Sand Beach
Iceland's rare red-gold sand beach stretching 10 km in remote Westfjords with seals and birdlife. The shoreline is shaped by centuries of volcanic activity and ocean erosion, creating unique formations found nowhere else. Visitors come to experience the contrast between dark sand and white surf, photograph the dramatic seascapes, and watch seabirds along the coast.
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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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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 →Sea Monster Museum — Skrímslasetrið
A fascinating museum in Bíldudalur dedicated to the sea monster folklore of Arnarfjörður. Visitors can experience the cultural richness that has made Iceland a disproportionately influential force in world arts and culture despite its small population.
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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.
Learn more →Svalvogar
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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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.
Learn more →Vatnsfjörður Nature Reserve
Vatnsfjörður is a protected nature reserve in the Westfjords, known for its diverse birdlife, coastal wetlands, and dramatic fjord landscape. Located near the Flókalundur area, it offers exceptional wildlife watching in one of Iceland's most remote regions.
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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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Museum of Icelandic Sorcery and 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.
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.
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⚔️ Viking Heritage
Saga sites and Viking routes in this region
