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Welcome to the dazzling world of West Iceland, or as the locals lovingly call it, Vesturland. A veritable cornucopia of natural wonders and historical tales, West Iceland is a destination guaranteed to satisfy the most seasoned adventurer's cravings and more.
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Viktória Komjáti
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Published:
8 Nov 2023
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Stepping into West Iceland is like stepping into a realm where Mother Nature unfurls her magic in every corner. Here, volcanoes stand tall, a testament to their explosive past, some still active, whilst others lay dormant.

The coastline is equally dramatic, punctuated by charming fishing villages that are a living homage to the region's maritime heritage. Scenic lava fields and majestic waterfalls further decorate this extraordinary landscape, awaiting your discovery. West Iceland invites you to take in this stunning vista and immerse yourself in its enchanting environment.

West Iceland is a place where fire and ice have choreographed a dramatic landscape, replete with volcanic mountains, verdant valleys, expansive lava fields, and sparkling glaciers.

A man standing on a viewing platform looking at a picturesque stone arch
A picturesque stone arch near Hellnar village

The Snaefellsnes Peninsula - Iceland, in Miniature

West Iceland is the home of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. It is often nicknamed "Iceland in Miniature" due to the variety of landscapes condensed into one area. From the mythical Snaefellsjokull glacier, considered one of the earth's seven great energy centres, to the rugged beauty of its sea cliffs adorned with birdlife, and to Iceland's most photographed mountain, this part of West Iceland is unparalleled.

Dramatic landscape with thick smoke emerging from the ground
The Gunnuhver geothermal area on Reykjanes

The Raw and Wild Reykjanes UNESCO Geopark

As we journey southwest, the Reykjanes peninsula reveals itself. Raw. Wild. Intensely beautiful. This region is a realm born of fire, dominated by vast lava fields, bubbling geothermal hot springs, and the dramatic, wind-battered coastline.

Its lighthouses stand as sentinels, their watchful eyes ever on the vast North Atlantic. Underneath it all, the Earth is alive, its seismic heartbeat reverberating through the Mid-Atlantic Ridge.

White streams appear from under the ground and flow into a river
The enchanting Hraunfossar falls on the Silver Circle

The Mystic Borgarfjördur

Another remarkable region in the west is the mystic Borgarfjördur, steeped in Viking sagas and a stark, tranquil beauty. Gushing rivers cut through the heart of the landscape, cascading down in a symphony of waterfalls such as the spectacular Hraunfossar and Barnafoss.

This is a realm where the spirits of the past can almost be heard in the whisper of the wind, where the saga-rich history weaves into the very fabric of the land. There's an undeniable magic here: a deep connection to the ancient and the timeless.

Remote fjord landscape with dark clouds
Landscape in the remote Westfjords

The Enchanting Westfjords

Further still to the northwest, the Westfjords beckon. A realm where the land splits and fractures. It creates a stunning tableau of jagged fjords, yellow and black sand beaches, and quaint little villages in secluded bays.

Látrabjarg, the westernmost point, offers an incredible spectacle of thousands of puffins. The cool, clear waters regularly showcase the grace of whales, a sight often visible from the shoreline.

Hornstrandir, the region's most remote area, beckons to the adventurous, a haven for Arctic foxes and a paradise for those on foot. Distinctly different from the rest of Iceland, the Westfjords hold a raw, captivating beauty that leaves a lasting imprint..

A road sneaking trough a serene fjord landscape
The landscape in Hvalfjördur

The Serene Hvalfjordur fjord

And finally, we encounter the serene Hvalfjordur fjord. It is most known for being home to the second-largest waterfall in Iceland.

The beauty here is quiet but potent. The fjord, a silent, shimmering mirror, reflects the towering peaks cradling it. In its embrace, the world's whispers seem to quiet, and the clamour of daily life fades.

A place for reflection, for quiet moments of awe, a place to be seduced by the play of the Northern Lights across the dark, star-speckled sky. A place where you truly realise - West Iceland is not just a location; it's a state of mind.

An aerial view of Hallgrímskirkja church and Reykjavík during sunset
Hallgrímskirkja church during sunset

Reykjavik: The Gateway to Your West Iceland Adventure

Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik, nestles on the west coast. Over 60% of the country's population resides here, offering a well-established infrastructure and a plethora of West Iceland tours to quench your thirst for adventure. Your exploratory journey can begin right here in Reykjavik, featuring modern roads that are a breeze to navigate.

An Unparalleled Blend of Ancient Geology, Rich History, and Captivating Wildlife

Geologically, West Iceland is the oldest part of the country, with rocks as ancient as 15 million years. This offers an entirely different experience from the newer southern region. Here, you will find a tapestry of old and eroded landscapes, with mountains and ridges showcasing aeons of natural history.

When it comes to cultural richness, West Iceland stands apart. It's a region steeped in historical sagas and folklore, with connections to notable historical figures such as Erik the Red, the notorious Viking who founded the first Norse settlements in Greenland.

This makes West Iceland particularly intriguing for history buffs and those interested in the Vikings. Visiting the Settlement Centre in Borgarnes offers an immersive dive into the region's past.

Its quaint towns and villages also give it a unique charm. While places like Reykjavik or Akureyri have a city feel, the fishing villages of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, such as Stykkisholmur or Arnarstapi, provide a more intimate and rustic charm. The slower pace of life in these towns, with the extraordinary landscapes and the warmth of the locals, gives you a unique flavour of Icelandic life.

And let's not forget the wildlife! West Iceland offers an impressive variety of bird species, with the Látrabjarg cliffs in the Westfjords being one of the biggest bird cliffs in Europe. This is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with a chance to see puffins and many other seabirds in their natural habitat. You can also find seals lazing on the shores of the Vatnsnes peninsula.

Unforgettable Geothermal Experiences

When it comes to natural hot springs, West Iceland also has a unique offering. While the world-renowned Blue Lagoon is the region's star attraction, the exquisite Hvammsvík hot springs and the opulent Sky Lagoon hold their own unique appeal, providing a tranquil retreat nestled in the heart of nature's grandeur.

Tucked away in the geothermal landscape around Deildartunguhver, Europe's most powerful hot spring, lies Krauma wellness spa. And this is just the beginning, for West Iceland is brimming with even more geothermal delights waiting to be discovered.

Within Arm's Reach of the Capital, yet Offering an Entirely Different Experience

While only a stone's throw away from the bustling capital area, West Iceland promises a contrasting adventure that will truly captivate your spirit. Embrace the harmonious blend of historical richness, geological marvels, and charming villages, a striking departure from the city vibes of Reykjavik.

Being remarkably close to the capital yet distinctively different, West Iceland welcomes you to delve into its unique charms, offering experiences that are unmatched and truly memorable.

The Diverse Wonders and Adventures of West Iceland

Delve deep into the heart of the terrain as you explore the over 500 lava caves, each unique in its own right. Wrap up warm and traverse the world's first man-made ice tunnel in the Langjokull Glacier, or embark on a whale-watching tour from Reykjavík or Breidafjordur. Whatever your adventurous spirit desires, West Iceland has something to offer.

As you journey through West Iceland, each region reveals its unique splendours, a symphony of nature that captivates us. From the magnetic allure of the Blue Lagoon to the quaint charm of remote villages in the Westfjords, every corner of West Iceland offers an adventure like no other.
West Iceland invites you to return, explore more, and uncover the many undiscovered treasures.

Woman in a blue knitted hat capturing a natural pool on her phone.

What awaits you in West Iceland is an array of breathtaking sights and activities. Embrace the adventurer in you as you embark on a sightseeing trip through West Iceland, exploring its diverse landscapes.

Questions and Answers about West Iceland

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