Planning a summer trip to the Westfjords is all about embracing dramatic landscapes, quiet fishing villages, and long, bright evenings where the sun barely sets. With a bit of preparation—and the right places to stay—you can turn this remote corner of Iceland into an unforgettable, easygoing adventure.
Start by thinking of your journey in three stages: getting from Reykjavík to the gateway of the west, exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and Breiðafjörður area, and then heading deep into the Westfjords themselves.
A natural first stop on your way from Reykjavík is Borgarfjörður, a region known for its rivers, hot springs, and peaceful countryside. Staying at Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður (close to Borgarnes) gives you a comfortable base right off the main Ring Road, so you can ease into your trip without a long first driving day. From here, you can visit the Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls, soak in nearby geothermal baths, or explore the historic sites around Reykholt. It’s also a smart overnight if you’re arriving on a late flight and want to start your Westfjords journey rested and ready.
From Borgarfjörður, continue north and then west toward the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and Breiðafjörður. This is where the charming town of Stykkishólmur comes in. Booking a night or two at The Stykkishólmur Inn lets you slow down and enjoy one of Iceland’s prettiest coastal towns. Wander the colorful harbor, join a boat tour among the Breiðafjörður islands, or climb up to Súgandisey lighthouse for sweeping views. Stykkishólmur is also a practical hub: it’s a great place to refuel, stock up on snacks, and plan the next leg of your journey into the more remote Westfjords.
When you’re ready to head north, you can either drive the scenic coastal roads or, in summer, take the ferry Baldur across Breiðafjörður (check schedules in advance). Either way, your goal is Ísafjörður, the unofficial “capital” of the Westfjords and a perfect base for several days of exploring. Ísafjörður Inn places you right in town, within easy reach of restaurants, cafés, and tour operators, while still giving you that small-town, close-to-nature feeling.
From Ísafjörður Inn, you can plan day trips to some of the Westfjords’ most iconic sights. Drive to the towering Dynjandi waterfall, often called the jewel of the region, and take your time walking up the path past its smaller cascades. Explore the tiny villages of Suðureyri, Flateyri, and Bolungarvík, each with its own character and coastal views. If you’re feeling adventurous, join a guided hike or kayaking tour in the surrounding fjords, or take a boat trip to the remote Hornstrandir Nature Reserve for a taste of true wilderness.
Summer in the Westfjords means long daylight hours, but conditions can still change quickly. When planning your itinerary, allow extra time for driving, especially on gravel roads, and keep an eye on weather and road reports. Pack layers, even in July and August, and don’t forget a windproof jacket and sturdy shoes for walking and short hikes. Booking your accommodation in advance is important in this region, as options are limited and summer is the busiest season.
Using Ourhotels.is to plan your stays at Hvítá Inn, The Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn helps you create a smooth, logical route: from the gentle countryside of Borgarfjörður, to the coastal charm of Stykkishólmur, and finally into the heart of the Westfjords in Ísafjörður. Each stop breaks up the driving, gives you access to local highlights, and offers a comfortable place to relax at the end of long summer days.
With thoughtful planning, a flexible schedule, and well-placed accommodations through Ourhotels.is, your Westfjords summer trip can balance adventure and ease—letting you enjoy the wild beauty of Iceland’s northwest without feeling rushed.
