Best Outdoor Adventures in Northwest Iceland
March 11, 2026 · Travel Tips
Discover Northwest Iceland’s Wild Outdoors
Northwest Iceland is a playground for nature lovers, offering dramatic coastlines, rugged mountains and sparkling glaciers. With Ourhotels.is as your home base, you’ll be perfectly placed to experience unforgettable hikes, boat tours and wildlife encounters.
Top Outdoor Adventures
- Glacial boat ride on Jökulsárlón or Langjökull – see icebergs up close and feel the Arctic breeze.
- Hiking the Strandir Coast in the Westfjords – remote trails and hot springs at every turn.
- Snæfellsjökull National Park circuit – volcanic cliffs, lava fields and sweeping ocean views.
- Kayaking in Ísafjarðardjúp – paddle among seals, sea birds and hidden coves near Ísafjörður Inn.
- Waterfall chasing around Borgarfjörður – explore Hraunfossar and Barnafoss, then relax at Truck Inn by the Hvítá river.
When to Go
The prime season runs from mid-June to early September for long daylight hours and mild temperatures. For snowshoeing or Northern Lights, plan a winter trip between October and March. Shoulder months like May and October still offer fewer crowds and unique color palettes.
What to Pack
- Waterproof jacket and pants – Icelandic weather changes in minutes
- Sturdy hiking boots with good grip
- Warm layers, hat and gloves (even in summer)
- Daypack with reusable water bottle, snacks and camera
- Swimwear – so you can jump into natural hot springs anytime
How Long to Stay
We recommend a 5–7 day itinerary to fully appreciate Northwest Iceland’s variety. Spend three nights around Borgarnes or Snæfellsnes and two nights in the Westfjords for a balanced adventure.
Where to Rest Your Head
Ourhotels.is offers a collection of locally owned inns to suit every explorer. In Borgarfjörður, unwind by the river at Hvítá Inn, where cozy rooms and friendly hosts await after a day of waterfall hiking. If you head further north, Ísafjörður Inn provides the perfect base for kayaking and cliff walks in the Westfjords.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Book your stay via Ourhotels.is today and set off on the best outdoor adventures Northwest Iceland has to offer. Adventure is calling – answer it now!