Travel Guide of Westfjords Region in Iceland by Influencers and Travelers

Stykkishólmur is a town and municipality situated in the western part of Iceland, in the northern part of the Snæfellsnes peninsula. It is a center of services and commerce for the area. Most of the people make their living from fishing and tourism. A ferry called Baldur goes over the Breiðafjörður fjord to the Westfjords. It also is the gateway to Flatey. The origin of Stykkishólmur can be traced to its natural harbor.

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The Best Things to Do and Visit in Westfjords Region

TRAVELERS TOP 2 :

1 - Hólmavík

   26 km away

Hólmavík is a village in the western part of Iceland, by Steingrímsfjörður. It is the largest settlement in Strandir and serves as a centre of commerce for the county. Hólmavík is part of the Strandabyggð municipality and has 375 inhabitants.

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2 - Snæfellsnesvegur

   30 km away

The Snæfellsnes is a peninsula situated to the west of Borgarfjörður, in western Iceland. It has been named Iceland in Miniature, because many national sights can be found in the area, including the Snæfellsjökull volcano, regarded as one of the symbols of Iceland.

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Pictures and Stories of Westfjords Region from Influencers

16 pictures of Westfjords Region from Luke Stackpoole, Cassie Boca, Zak Boca and other travelers

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Why should you visit Westfjords Region ?

Travel to Westfjords Region if you like:

  🛣️ Road trip     ⛰️ Hill     ⛰️ Highland     🐾 Wildlife     ❄️ Fjord     🏖️ Sailing  

How to visit Westfjords Region ?

Why traveling there?

The Westfjords Region in Iceland is a remote and unspoiled destination that offers breathtaking landscapes, dramatic coastlines, and rich wildlife. Traveling to Westfjords allows you to escape the crowds and experience Iceland's true natural beauty. The region is home to stunning fjords, towering cliffs, and charming fishing villages. It's an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility and adventure.

How to get there?

The Westfjords Region is accessible by car, bus, or plane. The most popular way to get there is by renting a car in Reykjavik and driving to the region. The drive takes about 5-7 hours, depending on your route and the weather conditions. Alternatively, you can take a domestic flight from Reykjavik to Isafjordur, the largest town in the Westfjords, which takes around 45 minutes. Buses from Reykjavik to Westfjords are also available but have limited schedules.

What to book in advance?

Due to the remote nature of the Westfjords, it's essential to book accommodations and guided tours in advance. If you're interested in wildlife watching, such as puffin watching or whale watching tours, book these ahead of time to secure your spot. Additionally, if you plan to visit the popular Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, you'll need to book a boat tour or arrange transportation in advance.

What are the costs?

Traveling in the Westfjords can be more expensive than other parts of Iceland due to its remote location. Accommodations range from budget guesthouses to more luxurious hotels, with prices varying from $80 to $250 per night. The cost of meals can range from $15 for a simple meal to $40 or more for fine dining. Gasoline and car rental prices are also higher in Iceland compared to other European countries.

What are the best things to do?

1. Explore the dramatic landscapes and fjords, such as Dynjandi waterfall and Latrabjarg cliffs.
2. Visit charming fishing villages, like Isafjordur and Bildudalur.
3. Discover the rich wildlife, including puffins, whales, and seals.
4. Hike in the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve and witness the Arctic foxes.
5. Relax in natural hot springs, such as Hellulaug or Krossneslaug.

Where to eat?

1. Tjoruhusid: Located in Isafjordur, this popular restaurant serves delicious traditional Icelandic seafood dishes.
2. Simbahollin: A cozy café in Thingeyri that offers homemade cakes and light meals, as well as traditional Icelandic waffles.
3. Hrafnseyri: A small café in the Hrafnseyri Museum, serving tasty sandwiches and homemade cakes.

Where to stay?

1. Hotel Isafjordur: A comfortable and modern hotel located in the heart of Isafjordur, offering beautiful views of the fjord.
2. Fosshotel Westfjords: A cozy hotel in Patreksfjordur, providing a great base for exploring the southern part of Westfjords.
3. Heydalur Guesthouse: A charming guesthouse in a remote valley, offering a unique experience and access to natural hot springs.

Off the beaten path

For an unusual and memorable travel experience, hike to the abandoned village of Djupavik in the Strandir region. Once a thriving herring factory settlement, Djupavik is now a ghost town with just a few remaining buildings, including an old factory and a hotel. The remote location and eerie atmosphere make it an unforgettable off-the-beaten-path destination in the Westfjords.

Learn More about Westfjords Region

The Westfjords Region in Iceland is the place to be for hikers and lovers of the great outdoors. Extremely isolated, the 22 000Km² peninsula is only connected by a 7km long isthmus. It is the least touristic region of the country and the least populated, and yet it offers an exceptional natural wealth. It is also the only region that is not crossed by road 1. Most of the roads are not paved and some of them are closed during the winter. The region has a singular history due to its isolation. The disasters at sea were numerous and led to the development of many pagan beliefs. The witch hunt was very active in the 17th century. Afterwards, Westfjords region developed around fishing. Several European countries came to claim territories where the waters are very fishy. They brought with them new fishing techniques and the region became a pioneer in the Icelandic fishing industry. Among the many sites to visit, the red beach of Rauðasandur is a must. It is more than 10 km long and offers a spectacular view of the Snæfellsjökul. Látrabjarg, the "bird cliff", is also a remarkable site. Migratory birds come to nest by millions on this impressive cliff which protects them from predators. The region also offers numerous waterfalls, including Dynjandi, hot springs such as Hellulaug and magnificent nature reserves such as Hornstrandir. Don't miss to climb Kaldbakur and its 998 meters high, which offers a spectacular view on the fjords. Finally, visit the many small traditional fishing villages like Vigur and Suðureyri, and the capital of the region Ísafjörður, which hosts a music festival during the Easter weekend. You will find unusual museums such as the sea monster museum in Bíldudalur and the witchcraft museum in Hólmavík.

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