Curator’s statement
A journey to Iceland’s Westfjords is an escape into raw, untouched elegance where luxury lies in nature’s grandeur. Exclusive hiking trails lead through majestic cliffs and serene fjords, offering solitude and breathtaking vistas. The region is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with sightings of puffins, Arctic foxes, and whales in their natural habitat. After a day immersed in the wild, indulge in refined cuisine featuring the freshest seafood and locally sourced ingredients, artfully prepared to reflect the purity of the land.
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Day 1: Reykjavik & Stykkishólmur

Valley near Stykkishólmur with blooming wildflowers
After arriving in Reykjavik, make your way to Krauma, a luxurious geothermal spa located at Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring. Savor a gourmet lunch crafted from seasonal Icelandic ingredients before relaxing in Krauma’s soothing hot pools and invigorating cold plunge.
Refreshed and rejuvenated, continue on to Stykkishólmur, a picturesque fishing village nestled at the northern edge of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Here, you’ll settle in for the night and discover the town’s vibrant culinary scene.
Don’t miss favorites like Narfeyrarstofa, Sjávarpakkhúsið, or the casual but beloved Hafnarvagninn Fish & Chips.
Day 2: Gateway to the Westfjords

Rauðisandur Beach
Catch the car ferry from Stykkishólmur and glide across Breiðafjörður Bay to the remote landing at Brjánslækur, gateway to the rugged Westfjords. From there, follow Route 62 westward and take a break at the oceanside Krosslaug hot spring. This stone-lined pool, set against the wild coastal landscape, makes for an unforgettable soak.
As you continue your journey, detour toward Rauðisandur, a beach famed for its unique reddish-gold sands. Wander along the shoreline and stop by the charming seaside café for freshly baked treats and a warming cup of cocoa. Just be mindful of the fast-changing tides while you explore.
Though accommodations in this secluded region are few, Hotel Látrabjarg stands out during the summer months. It offers cozy rooms, sweeping views, and a welcoming restaurant serving hearty breakfasts and evening meals.
Day 3: Látrabjarg

Puffin in Látrabjarg
Látrabjarg is home to millions of seabirds and famed for its puffin colonies. The dramatic vistas and sheer drop-offs make for an exhilarating experience for a breathtaking hike. Just be prepared for strong gusts and keep a firm grip on your gear!
After your cliffside adventure, stop at nearby Hotel Breiðavík for a lunch in a remote, scenic setting. Hnjótur Museum also has a small cafe on site and is on the way out from Látrabjarg. In the afternoon, head towards the tranquil village of Patreksfjörður, nestled in a sheltered fjord. It’s an ideal place to slow down and take in the Westfjords’ quiet beauty.
If you’re in the mood for a relaxing soak, the town’s geothermal pool offers steamy waters paired with stunning views. As evening sets in, settle in for a meal at Stúkuhúsið—a warm, inviting eatery known for its thoughtful menu highlighting locally sourced ingredients.
Day 4: Dynjandi Falls, Þingeyri & Ísafjörður

Dynjandi Falls
Venture north through the dramatic landscapes of the Westfjords, where winding roads reveal endless photoworthy stops and sweeping coastal views. One of the region’s true marvels is Dynjandi—a majestic, fan-shaped waterfall cascading down a series of rocky tiers. It’s a sight you won’t soon forget.
Continue on to the village of Þingeyri, where you can take a break with coffee and a homemade treat at a quirky café known for its repurposed school bus seating and expansive lawn—a perfect spot to unwind.
Your next stop is Flateyri, a serene seaside community with a charming main street and laid-back atmosphere. Be sure to visit the beloved family-run bookstore, now in its third generation. Whether you’re looking for a vintage Icelandic saga or a locally illustrated treasure, it’s the kind of place that invites lingering.
Wrap up the day in Ísafjörður, the largest town in the Westfjords, where you’ll settle in and prepare for the next leg of your adventure.
Day 5: Hornstrandir

Arctic Fox Pup in Hornstrandir
Venture to Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, one of Iceland’s most untouched and remote wilderness areas. Accessible only by boat, this isolated peninsula in the Westfjords is a sanctuary of dramatic sea cliffs, windswept tundra, and silent fjords. It’s a haven for wildlife, especially the elusive Arctic fox, which roams freely in its natural habitat. With no roads, no permanent residents, and minimal infrastructure, Hornstrandir offers a rare sense of pristine solitude that’s becoming increasingly hard to find.
If time permits, consider a multi-day backpacking trek across the region. Hiking through this raw, rugged landscape—where the only sounds are seabirds, waterfalls, and the wind—is nothing short of a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Day 6: Ísafjörður

Ísafjörður
After a day (or a few!) in the wilderness of Hornstrandir, Ísafjörður is the ideal place to slow down and catch your breath. One of the best ways to ease back into town life is by walking the old coastal road to Bolungarvík. It’s a peaceful, scenic route that hugs the shoreline and offers amazing views of the fjord and mountains. Before the tunnel was built, this was the main way between the two towns—today, it's a perfect path for a quiet stroll.
Once you're back in town, take some time to wander around. The downtown area is super walkable and full of character, with inviting cafés, quirky little shops, and bookstores that practically beg you to linger. Grab a coffee and a slice of cake, browse some local art or handmade goods, and just enjoy the slower pace.
Whether you’re gearing up for your next adventure or just taking a day to chill, Ísafjörður is a place that makes you feel right at home—even at the edge of the world.
Day 7: Drangsnes to Krossneslaug

Icelandic Horses
As you continue your journey east from Ísafjörður, prepare for one of the most scenic drives in Iceland. The winding coastal roads of the Westfjords offer endless opportunities to pull over, breathe in the sea air, and capture the kind of photos that barely need filters.
Make a stop at Saltverk, a small-scale, sustainable sea salt producer nestled in this remote corner of the world. Take a tour to learn how they harness geothermal energy to create their hand-harvested Arctic salt. Don’t leave without picking up a few jars—they make excellent gifts. If time allows, consider stopping a night or two in the eastern edge of the Westfjords (from Drangsnes to Krossneslaug), where one can find greener pastures, charming hills, and remote hot springs spots dotted along the coast.
Need to know
Suggested stops on the return to Reykjavik:
Gervidalsárfoss: A hidden gem nestled in the hills, this small, picturesque waterfall is ideal for a gentle hike surrounded by nature.
Erpsstaðir Creamery: A charming, family-run dairy farm known for its rich, locally made ice cream with a side of a giant trampoline.
Borgarnes: This inviting coastal town is perfect for a midday pause. Stop by Englendingavík, a laid-back café and restaurant with a beachfront deck—ideal for a relaxed summer lunch or a stroll along the rocky beach.
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Iceland page.

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Joycelyn May

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