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Wild Westfjords
Iceland
Iceland’s Westfjords are one of the country’s most remote and least-visited regions, defined by vast fjords, towering sea cliffs and a powerful sense of isolation. Travelling through this untamed corner of the island offers a rare opportunity to explore landscapes where nature still dictates the pace, and wildlife encounters feel authentic.
During the summer months, the Westfjords become a haven for wildlife. Dramatic coastal cliffs and offshore islands host vast colonies of seabirds, including puffins, guillemots and Arctic terns, while quieter bays and shorelines are frequented by seals. The surrounding waters are also home to feeding whales, with sightings possible on boat excursions and from land in areas where deep ocean currents run close to shore.
This journey combines wildlife encounters with active exploration. You’ll travel along winding fjord roads, hike to powerful waterfalls such as Dynjandi, and venture out by boat to remote islands rich in birdlife. Visits to conservation centres provide insight into Iceland’s only native land mammal, the elusive Arctic fox, offering a deeper understanding of life in this harsh yet beautiful environment.
As a self-drive itinerary, the Westfjords allow for a flexible and immersive style of travel. Evenings are spent in characterful guesthouses and small hotels, often overlooking the sea or nestled deep within fjord landscapes, providing a welcome sense of comfort after days spent exploring one of Iceland’s wildest regions.
Why You’ll Love This Trip
- Remote Wildlife Encounters: Encounter puffins, seabirds, seals and the Arctic fox in one of Iceland’s most wildlife-rich and least-visited regions.
- Untamed Landscapes: Explore dramatic fjords, vast sea cliffs and powerful waterfalls far from the main tourist routes.
- Island & Boat Excursions: Visit offshore islands and coastal habitats by boat, bringing you close to seabird colonies and marine life.
- Freedom to Explore: A self-drive journey offering flexibility, scenic routes and time to fully absorb Iceland’s wild northwest.
Your Example Day by Day
Day 1 – Arrive Reykjavík
Arrive in Iceland and collect your vehicle before making the short drive into Reykjavík. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a gentle introduction to the world’s northernmost capital, with time to explore its cafés, harbour and design-led architecture. This evening offers a chance to rest and prepare for the journey ahead into Iceland’s more remote landscapes.
Overnight: Hótel Reykjavík Saga
Day 2 – West Iceland & Hvammsvík Hot Springs
Today you'll explore the historic fjord Borgarfjörður and Húsafell area inland from there. This lush countryside is famed for the village of Reykholt, which was home to the author of the Edda Prose, Snorri Sturluson. One of the many great stops in this area is the Icelandic Goat Center in Háafell, which is working towards protecting and maintaining the goat stock in Iceland. Borgarfjörður is home to some of Iceland's prettiest waterfalls of Barnafoss and Hraunfossar; countless creeks and cascades small and big streaming out of the lava over a distance of about 900 meters. There are also plenty of hiking paths in the Húsafell area. After a day of exploring, a stop at Hvammsvík Hot Springs is the perfect way to end the day in a relaxing soak right by the ocean, where the water levels fluctuate with the tides.
Overnight: Hotel Varmaland
Day 3 – Northbound to the Westfjords
Today marks the start of your northbound journey. You'll traverse captivating landscapes, with opportunities for optional stops along the way. Among these stops, Erpsstaðir creamery stands out as a delightful must-visit. Taste homemade Icelandic ice cream or dairy products crafted with utmost care. Continuing your drive, relish the untouched beauty of the West fjords, a remote and unspoiled region renowned for its dramatic landscapes. Your day ends at Heydalur Guest house, a tranquil oasis nestled amidst pristine nature.
Overnight: Heydalur Guesthouse
Day 4 – Arctic Foxes & Vigur Paradise Island
Prepare for a day of wildlife and scenic wonders. First, pay a visit to the Arctic Fox Center in Súðavík, where you'll learn about Iceland's only native land mammal and their conservation efforts.
Continuing to Ísafjörður, the largest town in the West fjords, you'll embark on an unforgettable boat tour to Vigur Island.
Known as a paradise for bird enthusiasts, this remote island comes alive with the vibrant colours of puffins, arctic terns, and eider ducks. At this time of year, the island is a haven for birdlife, making it a photographer's dream. As the day ends, find comfort in the cosy ambiance in Ísafjörður.
Overnight: Hótel Ísafjörður
Day 5 – Dynjandi Waterfall & Látrabjarg Cliffs
Today's adventure takes you through the dramatic landscapes of the West fjords. As you drive through winding fjords and mountain roads, prepare for an awe-inspiring encounter with nature.
Your first stop is Dynjandi waterfall, an immense cascade that plummets from the heights of the Icelandic highlands. Next, the day's highlight awaits at Látrabjarg cliffs, known as the westernmost point in Europe. These towering cliffs are home to countless seabirds, with puffins and other species taking centre stage. Get your camera ready to capture these winged acrobats as they swoop and soar.
The sights and sounds of Látrabjarg cliffs are a birdwatcher's paradise and an immersion in Iceland's vibrant natural world. After a day of nature and exploration, find rest at HotelWest in Patreksfjörður
Overnight: Hótel West
Day 6 – Southbound & Viking Heritage
Leaving the captivating West fjords behind, you'll embark on a journey that takes you to Eiríksstaðir longhouse, an historical site where you can delve into Iceland's Viking heritage.
This interactive experience introduces you to the country's early history and the legendary explorer Eirík the Red. Then, your road leads to Stykkishólmur, a picturesque town on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
Your accommodation for the night is at Hótel Egilsen in Stykkishólmur. Here, you can enjoy a delightful blend of modern comfort and traditional charm.
Overnight: Hótel Egilsen
Day 7 – Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Your exploration continues on the enchanting Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often referred to as “Iceland in Miniature” for its diverse and captivating landscapes. During your day on the peninsula, you'll be immersed in a world of natural wonders. Encounter dramatic cliffs, stunning beaches, rugged lava fields, and the mystical Snæfellsjökull volcano, which is said to be the setting of Jules Verne's “Journey to the Center of the Earth.” As your tour comes to an end, you'll return to Reykjavík, for your final night!
Overnight: Hótel Reykjavík Saga
Day 8 – Departure from Reykjavík
Depart Reykjavík today, returning your vehicle before onward travel.
Depending on flight times, there may be an opportunity for a final stroll through the city or a visit to a local café before departure.
Your Accommodations
Hótel Reykjavík Saga
Set in the vibrant heart of central Reykjavík, Hotel Reykjavík Saga offers a 4-star retreat with boutique-inspired style and modern comfort. Ideally positioned just moments from Lake Tjörnin, art museums, shops and cafés, the hotel features beautifully appointed rooms designed for rest and relaxation. Guests can enjoy a rejuvenating spa with steam bath and sauna, a well-equipped fitness suite, and expansive rooftop terraces that offer serene city views. Fröken Reykjavík Kitchen & Bar presents refined Icelandic cuisine and seasonal dishes, making each meal a memorable part of your stay.
Hotel Varmaland
Hotel Varmaland opened in 2019 after extensive reconstruction and renovation of the Housewives' School in Varmaland, which was designed by Guðjón Samúelsson and originally built in 1946. During the renovation, the history of the place was mixed with a comfortable and modern design, making it an elegant hotel in the heart of Borgarfjörður where it is ideal to relax in beautiful surroundings and nature. On the top floor you will find the restaurant Calor which offers 360° panoramic view and tasty food from the region.
Heydalur Guesthouse
Heydalur is situated in the Westfjords of Iceland between Hólmavík and Ísafjörður, a place of great beauty and peacefulness. There are a mix of hotel rooms, cottages and campground in the summer. This simple and comfortable country hotel is the perfect base to really feel like you are away from it all. Hike around the valley, join a horse riding tour, kayak in the fjord or bathe in the geothermal pools. Keep an eye out for arctic foxes that reside in the valley. The old barn has been reconstructed as a hall with a restaurant where meals prepared with local ingredients are served.
Hótel West
Hotel West is a small family-run hotel in the centre of Patreksfjörður, Europe's most westerly town. The town is on the coast and surrounded by spectacular mountains. The building itself has a long and important history in the town, it was formerly the main market hall known for selling groceries to the town and the settlements in the countryside nearby. The interior of the hotel is timeless and is designed to enhance the beautiful environment that surrounds it. The town centre has a swimming pool, a few restaurants, a pharmacy, and two grocery shops within a short walk.
Hótel Egilsen
Standing over the harbour, Hotel Egilsen is set in a newly converted historic house in the heart of Stykkisholmur. The small hotel preserves its classic heritage while enhancing it with the best of modern design. Providing intimate lodging, a healthy kitchen, small library, and a comfortable guest lounge. In the morning you can enjoy a fresh, homemade, and delicious breakfast in the lounge. The rooms are small but very bright and comfortable.