Best Hiking Routes in the Arctic Westfjords
March 11, 2026 · Travel Tips
Explore the Arctic Westfjords on Foot
The Arctic Westfjords offer some of Iceland’s most dramatic coastal landscapes, pristine wilderness and hidden waterfalls. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a casual hiker, these trails will leave you inspired. Rest your head at Ourhotels.is and wake up refreshed for another day of adventure.
Top Hiking Routes
- Hornstrandir Nature Reserve: A multi-day trek through remote fjords, with towering cliffs, arctic fox sightings and wildflowers in summer.
- Dynjandi Waterfall Trail: A 4 km round-trip to one of Westfjords’ most iconic cascades, passing lush valleys and smaller falls along the way.
- Hornbjarg Cliffs: Coastal path near Ísafjörður offering panoramic sea views and nesting seabirds—plan for 2–3 hours round-trip.
- Ísafjarðardjúp Loop: A moderate 15 km route combining shoreline vistas with mountainous backdrops and local sheep farms.
When to Go
The prime hiking season runs from mid-June to early September. Days are long, temperatures hover between 10–15°C, and the trails are mostly snow-free by mid-July. Book early for the best rooms at Ísafjörður Inn through Ourhotels.is.
What to Pack
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support
- Thermal base layers and a warm mid-layer
- Daypack with snacks, water bottle and map
- Headlamp, sunglasses and sunscreen
- Lightweight tent or bivy for multi-day routes
How Long to Stay
Plan for at least 5–7 days to cover the major hikes and allow for rest days. If you have 10 days, you can combine Westfjords adventures with a scenic drive through Borgarfjörður—then unwind at Hvítá Inn near Borgarnes, also bookable via Ourhotels.is.
Where to Stay
After a rewarding day in the mountains, recharge at Ísafjörður Inn. This cozy base offers comfortable rooms, friendly service and easy access to local trails. For those exploring further east, The Stykkishólmur Inn in the Snæfellsnes Peninsula makes a perfect two-night stop.
Ready to Hit the Trails?
Embrace the serenity of the Arctic Westfjords, lace up your boots and let Ourhotels.is handle your stays. Book your next hiking getaway today and experience Iceland’s wild side like never before.