The Westfjords of Iceland are one of Europe's last true wildernesses. With fewer than 10,000 permanent residents spread across a region larger than some European countries, this northwestern peninsula offers dramatic fjords, sheer cliffs, and abundant birdlife. While most tourists rush along the Ring Road, the Westfjords remain delightfully quiet. This 5-day itinerary focuses on the region's highlights while staying off the main tourist trail. Expect gravel roads, unpredictable weather, and unforgettable scenery.

This guide assumes you have a 4×4 vehicle (recommended for many gravel roads) and that you are visiting between June and August, when most roads and services are open. For general Iceland travel tips, see The Complete Guide to Iceland 2026.

Day 1: Reykjavík to Ísafjörður via the Vestfjarðavegur

Start early from Reykjavík. The drive to Ísafjörður takes about 5–6 hours without stops, but you'll want to allow extra time for sights along the way.

Morning: Borgarnes and the Hvammsfjörður

Head north on Route 1 to Borgarnes (1 hour). Stop at the Settlement Center (Landnámssetrið) to learn about Iceland's Viking history (admission 2,000 ISK). Then take Route 54 towards Stykkishólmur, but turn onto Route 60 (Vestfjarðavegur) after a few kilometres. This road will take you through the southern Westfjords.

Afternoon: Dynjandi Waterfall

About 3 hours from Borgarnes, you'll reach Dynjandi, the crown jewel of Westfjord waterfalls. This tiered cascade drops 100 metres and is free to visit. A short 15-minute walk brings you close to the spray. Continue north on Route 63 to Þingeyri, a small village with a population of about 300. Fill up on fuel here—petrol stations are scarce in the Westfjords.

Evening: Arrival in Ísafjörður

From Þingeyri, it's 45 minutes to Ísafjörður, the region's largest town (pop. 2,600). Check into a guesthouse like Gamla Guesthouse (doubles from 18,000 ISK) or Hotel Ísafjörður (from 25,000 ISK). For dinner, try Tjöruhúsið, a seafood buffet in a historic warehouse (dinner 5,900 ISK per person).

Day 2: Hornstrandir Nature Reserve — A Day Hike

Hornstrandir is Iceland's most remote nature reserve, accessible only by boat. It's a paradise for hikers seeking solitude.

Morning: Ferry to Hornvík

Book a ferry from Ísafjörður with Borea Adventures or Sjóferðir. The journey to Hornvík takes about 1.5 hours (return ticket 12,000 ISK). Departure is usually at 9:00 AM. Bring waterproof clothing, sturdy boots, and packed lunch—there are no facilities in the reserve.

Hiking: Hornvík to Hornbjarg Cliffs

The classic hike from Hornvík beach to the Hornbjarg cliffs is about 8 km round trip (3–4 hours). The trail is well-marked but rugged. You'll pass Arctic fox dens and seabird colonies. The cliffs rise 500 metres above the sea, offering dizzying views. Return to Hornvík in time for the 4:00 PM ferry back.

If you prefer a shorter option, hike to the abandoned farm at Hesteyri (2 km each way).

Evening: Relax in Ísafjörður

After the hike, soak in the geothermal pool at Ísafjörður Swimming Pool (entrance 1,100 ISK). For a casual meal, Húsið offers excellent fish and chips (1,900 ISK).

Day 3: The Westfjords' Southern Coast — Patreksfjörður and Rauðasandur

Today you'll drive south along the rugged coast. The road is partly gravel, so allow 3–4 hours for the 200 km journey.

Morning: Drive to Patreksfjörður

Leave Ísafjörður via Route 61 south, then turn onto Route 62 towards Patreksfjörður. This road passes through the scenic Skálanes valley. Patreksfjörður (pop. 650) is a fishing village with a supermarket and fuel. Visit the Icelandic Sea Monster Museum (admission 1,500 ISK) for a quirky look at local folklore.

Afternoon: Rauðasandur Beach

From Patreksfjörður, take Route 614 (gravel) to Rauðasandur, a stunning red-sand beach stretching 10 km. Unlike the black sand of Reynisfjara, Rauðasandur's sand has a pinkish hue. The beach is often empty. Walk west towards the lighthouse at Breiðavík for panoramic views. Note: the road is rough and requires a 4×4.

Evening: Stay in Patreksfjörður or nearby

Accommodation options include Hótel Patreksfjörður (doubles from 20,000 ISK) or the Fosshótel Westfjords (from 22,000 ISK). For dinner, Verkhúsið serves lamb and seafood (mains around 3,500 ISK).

Day 4: Látrabjarg Cliffs and the Westernmost Point

Látrabjarg is the westernmost point of Iceland and Europe, famous for its seabird cliffs. The drive from Patreksfjörður takes about 1.5 hours on gravel road 612.

Morning: Birdwatching at Látrabjarg

The cliffs stretch 14 km and rise 440 metres. They host millions of seabirds, including puffins, razorbills, and guillemots. The best puffin viewing is from June to early August. Walk along the cliff edge (carefully—there are no fences) to see the birds up close. The most accessible spot is near the lighthouse at the end of the road.

Afternoon: Drive to Flókalundur

After Látrabjarg, retrace your route to Route 62 and head east towards Flókalundur. This area has a small hotel and campsite. If time allows, stop at the Hellulaug hot pot near Flókalundur—a natural geothermal pool with views of the bay (free).

Evening: Stay at Flókalundur or Bíldudalur

Accommodation at Flókalundur Guesthouse (doubles from 16,000 ISK) or continue to Bíldudalur (pop. 200) where Hótel Bíldudalur offers rooms from 18,000 ISK. Dinner options are limited; the hotel restaurant serves Icelandic staples.

Day 5: Return to Reykjavík via the Southern Route

Your last day involves a long drive back to Reykjavík (about 5–6 hours). Break the journey with a few stops.

Morning: The Westfjords' Southern Edge

From Bíldudalur, take Route 60 south. Stop at the Krossneslaug geothermal pool near Flókalundur (entrance 1,000 ISK) for a morning dip. Then continue to the village of Reykhólar, where you can visit the Reykhólar Swimming Pool or the Saltfish Museum (admission 1,000 ISK).

Afternoon: Hólmavík and the Museum of Witchcraft

Drive east to Hólmavík (pop. 375) and visit the Museum of Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft (admission 1,800 ISK). It's a fascinating look at 17th-century witch hunts. Grab lunch at Kaffi Hólmavík (soup and bread 1,500 ISK).

Evening: Return to Reykjavík

From Hólmavík, take Route 68 and then Route 1 south. The drive to Reykjavík takes about 3 hours. Stop in Borgarnes for a final meal at Borgarnes Bistro before arriving in the capital.

For more on the capital's food scene, see Where to Eat in Reykjavík: Food Halls & Fine Dining.

Practical Tips for the Westfjords

  • Vehicle: A 4×4 is highly recommended for gravel roads like 614 and 612. Many rental companies in Reykjavík offer 4×4s from 15,000 ISK per day.
  • Fuel: Petrol stations are sparse. Fill up whenever you see one, especially in Ísafjörður, Patreksfjörður, and Hólmavík.
  • Weather: The Westfjords are colder and windier than the south. Bring layers, waterproofs, and sturdy shoes even in summer. For packing advice, see What to pack for Iceland — by season.
  • Food: Restaurants are limited in small villages. Stock up on snacks and groceries in larger towns.
  • Accommodation: Book ahead in summer. Guesthouses and hotels fill up quickly. Camping is an option at designated sites (1,500–2,000 ISK per person).

For budget accommodation options, see Camping vs Hotels on the Ring Road: Cost Comparison.

Related articles

  • The Complete Guide to Iceland 2026
  • Iceland Ring Road Itineraries: 7, 10 & 14 Days
  • Iceland South Coast: 3-Day Itinerary from Vík to Jökulsárlón
  • Reykjavík on a Budget: What to Skip & Splurge On
  • Glacier Hike on Sólheimajökull: Tours & What to Expect