The Westfjords, Iceland 7-Day Itinerary
Discover the Wild Beauty of Iceland’s Westfjords
Remote, rugged, and refreshingly untouched, Iceland’s Westfjords are where dramatic landscapes and deep-rooted traditions come together to create a travel experience unlike any other. Far from the tourist crowds, this region invites you to slow down, look closer, and embrace the raw, windswept beauty of one of Iceland’s most isolated corners.
This 7-day itinerary is designed for curious, culture-driven travelers who want more than postcard views—they want real connection. You’ll start in the charming town of Ísafjörður, then wind your way through quiet fishing villages, along jaw-dropping cliffside roads, and into geothermal hot springs tucked into the shoreline. Along the way, you might spot arctic foxes darting through the tundra, taste sea salt made with geothermal energy, or hike through the untouched wilderness of Hornstrandir, a region accessible only by boat.
From coastal hikes and handmade ice cream to sweeping fjord views and silent soaks under the midnight sun, each stop on this route brings you closer to the heart of Iceland’s wildest frontier.
Westfjords, Iceland Information
Length: 7 Day
Country: Iceland
Travel Type: Nature Exploration, Adventure, Road Trip
Day 1 - Reykjavik & Stykkishólmur
After landing in Reykjavik, head to beautiful Krauma at Deildartunguhver, the highest-flowing hot spring in Europe. Enjoy a delicious lunch made with fresh, local ingredients, then unwind in the spa’s five geothermal baths and cold plunge pool.
Once you’ve soothed your travel-weary muscles, continue your journey to Stykkishólmur, a charming old fishing town located at the northern tip of the Snæfellsnes peninsula, where you’ll spend the night.
Stykkishólmur offers several excellent dining options. A few notable spots include Sjávarpakkhúsið, Narfeyrarstofa, Hafnarvagninn Fish & Chips.
Day 2 - Gateway to the Westfjords
Hop aboard the car ferry from Stykkishólmur and cruise across the bay to Brjánslækur in the Westfjords. From there, drive west along Route 62 and make a stop at the Krosslang hot spring. Nestled beside the ocean, this natural stone pool offers a truly unforgettable soaking experience.
Continue west and turn off toward Rauðisandur Beach. Stroll along its striking red sands and visit the cozy beachside cafe for homemade pastries and a cup of hot cocoa. Tip: the tide can come in very quickly, so keep an eye on it while you explore the shoreline.
While lodging in this remote area is limited, Hotel Látrabjarg is a reliable choice in the summer. It offers comfortable rooms and stunning views. It also features a restaurant serving breakfast and dinner.
Day 3 - Látrabjarg
Start your day with a hike along Látrabjarg, Iceland’s largest seabird cliff and one of the best places in the world to spot puffins. Note that this area can be very windy, so hold on to any belongings that may fly off!
Hotel Breidavik is a spot close by after your walk that serves lunches. Next, make your way to Patreksfjörður , a quiet fjord town perfect for a restful evening. If you’re craving another soak, the town’s public pool offers warm waters and panoramic views of the fjord.
For dinner, head to Stúkuhúsið, a cozy local favorite known for its simple, skillfully prepared dishes that showcase fresh Icelandic ingredients.
Day 4 - Dynjandi Falls, Þingeyri & Ísafjörður
Continue your scenic journey north through the Westfjords, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the rugged beauty along the way. A must-see highlight is Dynjandi Falls, the crown jewel of Westfjords waterfalls.
Next, stretch your legs in the charming village of Þingeyri. Grab a coffee and a sweet treat at the local cafe, which features a quirky school bus lounge and a wide-open grassy area perfect for relaxing. Continue onto Flateryi, a peaceful village with a walkable main street and a cozy, small-town vibe. Don’t miss the 3rd generation-owned bookstore. It’s a delightful place to browse, and you might just leave with a classic Icelandic saga or beautifully illustrated local book as a keepsake.
End your day in Ísafjörður, the largest town in the Westfjords and your base for the next few days of exploration.
Day 5-6 - Hornstrandir and Ísafjörður
Ísafjörður is the unofficial capital of the Westfjords. It may be small by most standards, but it’s packed with charm and an ideal base for exploring the remote beauty that surrounds it.
Start by walking the old coastal road to Bolungarvik, a peaceful path once used before the modern tunnel connected the two towns. Back in town, spend time wandering Ísafjörður’s downtown, dotted with inviting cafes, independent shops and charming bookstores.
Highly recommended: take a tour to Hornstrandir, one of Iceland’s most untouched and wild corners. Accessible only by sea, this remote sanctuary offers dramactic cliffs, wild arctic foxes, and pristine solitude. If your schedule allows, backpacking through Hornstrandir is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Day 7 - Drangsnes and Krossneslaug
As you begin 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.
Suggested stops on the return to Reykjavik:
Gervidalsárfoss – a small, scenic waterfall tucked into the hills, perfect for a short, easy hike and a quiet picnic break.
Erpsstaðir Creamery – a delightful dairy farm offering creamy, locally made ice cream. And yes, there’s a giant trampoline if you (or the kids) feel like bouncing off the road-trip fatigue.
Borgarnes – this charming seaside town makes for a great lunch stop. Head to Englendingavík, a relaxed cafe and restaurant with an outdoor deck that opens right onto the beach. An ideal spot for a summer meal or drink with a view.
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