Westfjords of Iceland are still one of the country’s most virgin and untouched
territories, showing tourists raw Nordic wilderness unexplored by mass tourism.
Iceland’s remote northwestern peninsula can captivate visitors through dramatic
cliffs, secluded hot springs, and abundant wildlife.
The Westfjords open up a part of Iceland that few visitors see: through winding fjords
and over mountain passes.
Látrabjarg Cliffs, Western Peninsula
These sea cliffs extend 8.7 miles along Iceland’s westernmost point, dramatically
rising to 1,444 feet high. Látrabjarg is home to millions of seabirds, including puffins,
razorbills, and guillemots.
It is Europe’s biggest bird cliff. Historically, the cliffs were vital to the survival of locals, who would rappel down the sheer faces for eggs and feathers. There are also unmatched opportunities for bird-watching and photography there, especially during the midnight sun.
Dynjandi Waterfall, Arnarfjörður
Dynjandi fall cascades into 328 feet over seven unique waterfalls, forming a bridal-
veil pattern that grows wider with the distance from the source. This beautiful
waterfall has been named ‘Jewel of the Westfjords,’ its presence is dominating the
landscape of Arnarfjörður fjord.
The waterfall has well-maintained hiking trails where visitors can view the falls from several angles. Local folklore holds that the falls have been considered sacred since settlement.
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, Northern Peninsula
This distant wilderness region is the northernmost peninsula in Iceland and can only
be reached by boat. It has not had a human settlement since the 1950s. Arctic foxes
run rampant over the tundra terrain, showing remarkable brazenness because they
are untouched by human society.
The reserve features enormous tracts of untouched arctic vegetation, towering cliffs, and hundreds of hiking trails that even seasoned hikers find challenging. However, despite its distance, Hornstrandir has some of the best hikes in Iceland.
Rauðasandur Beach, Southern Coast
Contrary to the usual black sand of Iceland, Rauðasandur offers 6.2 miles of
absolutely unique reddish and golden-colored sand. The colors will change with the
lighting conditions and weather, offering this beach a dynamic aspect opposite the Látrabjarg cliffs.
Local seals regularly use the beach, mainly at low tide. Frenchman’s Farm is not too far from here, offering stories about the region’s historical maritime activities.
Drangsnes Hot Pots, Eastern Shore
Three geothermal pools sit directly alongside the sea in the tiny fishing village of
Drangsnes, offering a unique bathing experience. The hot pots provide different
temperature options, allowing visitors to soak while watching seals play in the fjord.
Residents maintain these pools as a community service, demonstrating traditional
Icelandic bathing culture. The site perfectly captures the intersection of natural
geothermal activity and community life.
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Ísafjörður Town, Northwestern Region
As the largest town in the Westfjords, Ísafjörður is a cultural hub with a rich maritime
heritage spanning several centuries. The old town features well-preserved wooden
buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries and housing museums and cultural
centers.
The surrounding mountains create a dramatic backdrop for this bustling fishing community. The town’s annual music festival attracts visitors from across Iceland and beyond.
Fjallaskagi Peninsula, Eastern Westfjords
This remote peninsula offers some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in the
Westfjords, with deep fjords cutting into ancient basalt formations. Isolated farms dot
the landscape, preserving traditional Icelandic farming practices that have endured
for generations.
Hiking trails crisscross the peninsula, leading to hidden waterfalls and abandoned settlements. During winter, the area provides excellent opportunities to view the northern lights.
Heydalur Valley, Mjóifjörður
This hidden valley houses a historic farm-turned-guesthouse surrounded by
geothermal springs and rich vegetation. Nestled within an almost impossibly green
landscape, the site features indoor and outdoor hot pools landscape.
Local greenhouse cultivation demonstrates sustainable farming practices in the harsh
Arctic environment. The valley serves as an excellent base for horse riding and
hiking expeditions.
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Kaldalón Fjord, Northwestern Coast
This secluded fjord leads to the edge of Drangajökull glacier, Iceland’s northernmost
ice cap and the only one that hasn’t retreated in recent years. The area offers unique
opportunities to witness the interaction between glacial and marine environments.
Traditional sheep farming continues in the surrounding valleys, maintaining centuries-old practices. The fjord’s calm waters provide excellent conditions for kayaking and photography.
Suðureyri Village, Western Shore
This sustainable fishing village exemplifies how traditional industry can
accommodate modern environmental standards. The village runs a well-known fish
processing facility, which sells fresh seafood to restaurants around the world.
Local guides also offer authentic fishing experiences and culinary tours demonstrating
traditional preservation methods. Good hiking opportunities exist around the mountains, with views across the Denmark Strait.
Önundarfjörður, Central Westfjords
This peaceful fjord features a perfect crescent-shaped sandy beach protected by
twin mountain spurs. The area hosts some of Iceland’s oldest working farms, where
traditional haymaking methods are still practiced.
The fjord’s protected waters create ideal conditions for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Several hiking trails offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and fjord system.
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Bíldudalur Village, Arnarfjörður
Known as the ‘sea monster capital’ of Iceland, this village houses a unique museum
dedicated to folklore and mysterious marine creatures. The village’s dramatic setting
beneath towering mountains creates a mystical atmosphere fitting its legendary
status.
Local artists have established studios and galleries, creating a surprising cultural hub. The village serves as an excellent base for exploring the southern Westfjords.
Reykjanes, Ísafjarðardjúp
This abandoned farm site features one of Iceland’s oldest geothermal pools, dating
back to the medieval period. The historic pool has been preserved in its original
state, offering visitors a glimpse into ancient Icelandic bathing culture.
The surrounding area provides excellent opportunities for bird-watching and coastal
hiking. The site includes ruins of traditional turf houses and fishing stations.
Vatnadalur Valley, Central Region
This tranquil valley features pristine lakes and wetlands that support diverse wildlife,
including various bird species and Arctic char. The valley’s protected position
between mountains creates a unique microclimate that supports rich vegetation
despite the harsh northern latitude.
Walking trails wind through the valley, offering views of traditional farms. The surrounding peaks provide excellent hiking opportunities with panoramic views of the Westfjords’ interior.
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Þingeyri Village, Dýrafjörður
This charming coastal village sits beneath the imposing Sandafell mountain,
perfectly blending maritime heritage and outdoor adventure. The village hosts
Iceland’s oldest operational mechanic’s workshop, now transformed into a vibrant
café and cultural center. Þingeyri’s protected harbor has served fishing vessels since
medieval times, maintaining centuries-old maritime traditions.
The surrounding area offers excellent mountain biking and paragliding opportunities, with well-maintained trails crisscrossing the mountainsides.
Your Westfjords Adventure Awaits
The Westfjords are the most authentic and untamed part of Iceland, providing
experiences nowhere else in the country can be found. Every location tells its story
of survival, adaptation, and natural beauty in this remote corner of the North Atlantic.
Whether it is adventure, culture, or just a chance to disconnect from the modern
world, the Westfjords offer an unforgettable journey into Iceland’s wild heart.
More from Travel Pug
- 15 Dangerous European Cities to Avoid
- 15 Caribbean Islands Where Tourists Keep Getting Scammed
- The 20 Most Fascinating Abandoned Places: A Journey Through Time and Forgotten Spaces
- 15 Hidden Places in the Smithsonian Museums Locals Love: A Guide to Lesser-Known Treasures
- 16 Hidden Florida Beach Towns That Aren’t Overrun with Tourists
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.