How to combine towns and nature stops
February 8, 2026 · Travel Tips
Plan Your Towns-and-Nature Adventure in Westfjords & West Iceland
Combining charming villages with dramatic landscapes makes for an unforgettable trip. From the coastal town of Stykkishólmur to the wild fjords around Ísafjörður, our guide lets you soak up culture and scenery with ease. Stay comfortably at Ourhotels.is properties—like the Hvítá Inn near Borgarnes or the Ísafjörður Inn—so you can focus on exploring.
Sample Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrive in Borgarnes. Explore the Settlement Center museum, then settle into the Hvítá Inn for a relaxing evening.
- Day 2: Drive to Hraunfossar waterfalls and Deildartunguhver hot spring. Sunset photo stop at Barnafoss.
- Day 3: Head north to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Walk Stykkishólmur’s colorful harbor and spend the night at The Stykkishólmur Inn.
- Day 4: Cross to the Westfjords. Enjoy sea cliffs at Látrabjarg, then rest at Ísafjörður Inn in town.
- Day 5: Explore Dynjandi waterfall and red sand beaches around Rauðisandur before returning to Reykjavík or extending your journey.
Towns Worth a Stop
- Borgarnes: Rich in history, delicious bakeries and coastal views.
- Stykkishólmur: Perfect for art galleries, boat tours, and seafood restaurants.
- Ísafjörður: A lively harbor town with mountain hikes just beyond your doorstep.
Must-See Nature Highlights
- Hraunfossar & Barnafoss: Walk across lava flows and crystal streams.
- Snæfellsjökull National Park: Glacier vistas and hidden lava tubes.
- Látrabjarg Cliffs: Puffin watching at Europe’s westernmost point.
- Dynjandi Waterfall: The “jewel” of the Westfjords cascade over multiple tiers.
Practical Travel Tips
- When to Go: Summer (June–August) for midnight sun and wildlife. Shoulder seasons for fewer crowds.
- What to Pack: Layers, waterproof jacket, sturdy hiking boots, binoculars and a refillable water bottle.
- How Long to Stay: Four to seven days to balance towns and nature. Add extra days if you love hiking or kayaking.
- Transportation: Rent a 4×4 for gravel roads. Plan fuel stops and check weather updates daily.
Book Your Stay with Ourhotels.is
Make your journey seamless by choosing Ourhotels.is for warm, comfortable lodging. Enjoy local breakfast at Truck Inn by the Hvítá river or cozy rooms at Ísafjörður Inn. Ready to create lasting memories? Visit Ourhotels.is and secure your preferred dates today.