Visit the Western Fjords of Iceland

What to see and do in the Western Fjords of Iceland

Hornstrandir Nature Reserve

The home of the Arctic fox, Hornstrandir Nature Reserve is one of the most isolated places in all of Iceland allowing nature and Iceland’s wildlife to thrive here. It’s a fantastic spot for hikers with cliffs reaching more than 500 metres height. Since there is no infrastructure in Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, the vast remoteness is impactful; you could hike days without ever seeing a single person. The nature is pure and the tranquillity unmatched.

Latrabjarg Cliff

The cliffs of Látrabjarg stretch for 14 kilometres and are over four hundred metres high in numerous places, making them quite a spectacle in themselves. In summer, they become a natural wonder worthy of international acclaim, as they fill with literally millions of birds, nesting and raising their chicks.

Dynjandi Waterfall

Straight out of a fantasy, Dynjandi Waterfall sits in the remote Westjords of Iceland. It’s the biggest and the most impressive cascade in the region. Translating to “the Thunderer” in English, Dynjandi cascades 100 m (329 ft) over terraces of basalt boulders. Visit the falls to take in some of the most awesome fjord views!

Raudasandur Beach

Rauðasandur Beach is a magical red sand beach on the south coast of Iceland’s West Fjords. Enjoy a walk along its 10-kilometer stretch of beautiful coastline and spot the pulverized scallop shells that  make the ground seem like the surface of another planet!

How to get to the Western Fjords

You can take the ferry from the Snaefellsnes Peninsula to the southern Westfjords. The ferry from Snaefellsnes Peninsula takes around 2.5 hours.

The quickest way to get to the Westfjords is by air. The flight from Reykjavík only takes around 40-50 minutes, depending on which of the three airports you are traveling to:

Alternatively, you can organise a car hire and drive yourself. This is often the more affordable and fun option! The roads are all asphalt, and the journey is easy  

Hotels in the Western Fjords of Iceland

Foss Hotel West

Fosshotel Westfjords is a three-star hotel in the small fishing village of Patreksfjörður, gateway to some of Iceland greatest attractions. Close to Fosshotel Westfjords is Látrabjarg Nesting Cliff, the magnificent Dynjandi Waterfall and Rauðisandur, the fascinating red sand beach. There’s free Wi-FI, a bar and in-house restaurant.

Book Foss Hotel West here

Hotel Isafjordur

Just a 12 minutes walk from the beach, Hotel Isafjordur is situated in central Isafjördur, on Silfurtorg Square, this hotel offers a restaurant and bar and panoramic views of the fjord and surrounding mountains. Guests can enjoy free in-room Wi-Fi, free parking and modern guest rooms all with a private bathroom.

Book Hotel Isafjordur