Why Travelers Fall in Love With Iceland’s Westfjords

March 10, 2026 · Travel Tips

photographer: Samuel Quek :

Why Travelers Fall in Love With Iceland’s Westfjords

Hidden at the edge of Europe, the Westfjords reward adventurous travelers with rugged fjords, dramatic cliffs and a sense of raw, untouched beauty. From cascading waterfalls to remote fishing villages, this region inspires deep wanderlust. And when you choose Ourhotels.is as your home base—whether you stay at the charming Ísafjörður Inn in the heart of Ísafjörður or the cozy Truck Inn at Hvítá—you’ll experience genuine Icelandic hospitality that makes every moment memorable.

Top Attractions & Activities

There’s no shortage of things to do in the Westfjords. Here are some favorites:

  • Birdwatching in Látrabjarg: Witness puffins up close on Europe’s largest bird cliff.
  • Hiking to Dynjandi Waterfall: Hike spectacular trails to Iceland’s “jewel” waterfall.
  • Boat Tours in Ísafjörður: Spot seals, seabirds and maybe even whales along the fjord.
  • Hot Springs at Reykjafjörður: Relax in natural pools surrounded by mountain views.
  • Cultural Exploration: Visit the Westfjords Heritage Museum or local art galleries in Bolungarvík.

Best Time to Visit

Summer (June–August): Enjoy nearly 24 hours of daylight for extended hikes and midnight sun drives.
Winter (November–March): Chase the northern lights over snow-dusted fjords and soak in steaming geothermal baths by starlight.

For optimal weather and access to mountain roads, plan your trip between late May and early September. If you’re a photography enthusiast, September’s autumn hues and early snow can be magical.

How Long to Stay

To truly soak up the Westfjords’ unique charm, we recommend 5–7 days. This gives you time to:

  • Drive the scenic coastline and explore hidden coves.
  • Take guided wildlife tours.
  • Unwind in local cafés and meet friendly Icelanders.

Packing Essentials

The Westfjords’ weather can change quickly. Pack smart with:

  • Waterproof and windproof jacket
  • Sturdy hiking boots
  • Warm base layers and fleece
  • Swimwear for natural hot pools
  • Universal power adapter
  • Camera with extra batteries

Getting There & Getting Around

Most visitors rent a car in Reykjavík and drive the scenic Ring Road north and then west. The journey takes about 6–7 hours to Ísafjörður, with plenty of photo stops along the way. Alternatively, domestic flights connect Reykjavík Domestic Airport to Ísafjörður in under an hour. Once you arrive, local buses and guided tours make exploring easy, or you can continue your self-drive adventure.

Where to Stay

Ourhotels.is offers several comfort-focused properties throughout Westfjords & West Iceland. Stay at:

  • Ísafjörður Inn: Modern rooms in the charming fishing town, minutes from boat tours and local restaurants.
  • Truck Inn at Hvítá: A unique spot for those driving the scenic routes, with easy access to nearby hiking trails.
  • The Stykkishólmur Inn: Ideal for island-hopping excursions and exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

Ready to Fall in Love?

Whether you seek solitude in wild landscapes or off-the-beaten-path adventures, Iceland’s Westfjords will capture your heart. Book your next unforgettable stay at Ourhotels.is and discover why so many travelers return again and again.