Best Photography Destinations in the Westfjords

Capture the Westfjords Magic

From soaring cliffs to secluded beaches, the Westfjords region of Iceland offers some of Europe’s most dramatic landscapes for photographers. Staying at Ísafjörður Inn, part of the Ourhotels.is collection, puts you right in the heart of the action—close to rugged fjords, colorful fishing villages and endless photo opportunities.

Top Photography Destinations

1. Hornstrandir Nature Reserve

Accessible by boat from Ísafjörður, Hornstrandir is a wilderness photographer’s dream. Expect puffins, Arctic foxes and sweeping coastal vistas devoid of roads and crowds. Early morning hikes reward you with soft light and mist rising off the ocean.

2. Dynjandi Waterfall

Often called the jewel of the Westfjords, Dynjandi’s tiered cascades span nearly 100 meters. A short trail leads to the base, where you can shoot wide-angle vistas or get up close for silky-smooth long exposures. Late evening light reveals rainbows in the mist.

3. Látrabjarg Cliffs

Europe’s largest seabird cliffs are home to millions of puffins, guillemots and razorbills. In summer, they cluster along the cliffs’ edge—ideal for close-up wildlife shots. Bring a telephoto lens and be ready to crouch low for charming puffin portraits.

4. Rauðisandur Beach

This red sand beach stretches for kilometers, offering contrasting tones of gold, pink and orange. Sunset here is unforgettable—cloud formations, shoreline reflections and driftwood frames all make fantastic compositions.

5. Ísafjörður Old Town

Nestled around a sheltered harbor, Ísafjörður’s colorful wooden houses and fishing boats are as photogenic as they come. After a day of shooting, return to Ísafjörður Inn for a warm Icelandic dinner and preview your images in cozy comfort.

Practical Tips for Your Photography Trip

When to Go

• Summer (June–August): Midnight sun, puffin season and mild temperatures.
• Shoulder seasons (May & September): Fewer crowds and vibrant fall colors.
• Winter (October–April): Northern Lights, snow-covered fjords and dramatic low light.

What to Pack

• Sturdy tripod and variety of lenses (wide-angle + telephoto)
• Waterproof jacket, windproof layers and thermal base layers
• Waterproof hiking boots and warm socks
• Extra batteries and memory cards (cold drains power fast)
• Portable charger and lens cleaning kit

How Long to Stay

• Minimum 4 days to cover Dynjandi, Látrabjarg and nearby fjords.
• 7–10 days for a relaxed pace, including Hornstrandir and Rauðisandur.
• Combine Ísafjörður Inn with a night at Hvítá Inn on the way back to Reykjavík for a full West Iceland experience.

Ready to unlock the Westfjords’ photographic treasures? Book your stay at Ourhotels.is today and discover why our guests come home with memories—and images—that last a lifetime.