Exploring the Westfjords

The Westfjords of Iceland are one of the country’s most remote, rugged, and breathtaking regions. With steep mountains plunging into deep fjords, dramatic coastlines, and vast uninhabited areas, this part of Iceland feels like a world apart. Unlike the more tourist-heavy south and Golden Circle, the Westfjords remain a hidden gem. They offer visitors an authentic Icelandic experience. Here, you’ll find untouched nature, fascinating history, and eerie folklore.

For centuries, the Westfjords have been home to resilient fishing communities, seafarers, and traders. They adapted to the region’s wild landscape. While some villages have grown quieter over time, many remain thriving hubs of culture, history, and local traditions. Ísafjörður, the largest town, still serves as the region’s heart. It blends modern life with a deep connection to the past.

This guide explores the best things to see and do in the Westfjords. It covers historical museums, local seafood spots, stunning waterfalls, natural hot springs, and unique folklore. Whether you’re interested in hiking remote trails, discovering Viking history, spotting puffins on towering cliffs, or soaking in geothermal pools by the sea, the Westfjords have something for every adventurous traveller.

The History of The Westfjords

Viking Age Settlement (9th–11th Century)

The Westfjords were settled during the Viking Age (c. 870–1050), when Norse explorers searched for land and freedom in Iceland. The region’s rich fishing waters and sheltered fjords made it ideal for settlers who relied on fishing, farming, and trade. However, the harsh landscape made large-scale agriculture difficult, leading to an early focus on self-sufficiency and seafaring.

The Icelandic sagas mention several powerful figures from the Westfjords, including Gísli Súrsson, the outlaw warrior from Gísla saga Súrssonar. Other settlers, such as the influential chieftain families, shaped the region’s early political landscape, participating in Iceland’s Commonwealth-era governance system (930–1262).

Medieval Fishing and Foreign Trade (12th–17th Century)

By the 12th century, the Westfjords had become a centre for fishing and trade, exporting dried cod (stockfish) to Europe. Fishing villages began to grow, with Ísafjörður, Bolungarvík, and Hólmavík emerging as key maritime hubs.

In the 15th and 16th centuries, English and later German (Hanseatic) merchants established trading posts in the fjords, bringing new goods and technology but also causing tensions with local Icelandic leaders. This foreign influence shaped the region’s economy, though Icelanders remained dependent on fishing as their primary livelihood.

During this period, folklore and supernatural beliefs thrived, with stories of sea monsters, ghosts, and sorcery becoming deeply embedded in local culture. The 17th century saw witchcraft trials in the Westfjords, particularly around Strandir, where both men and women were accused of practising magic.

Danish Rule and Economic Struggles (17th–19th Century)

In the 17th and 18th centuries, the Danish trade monopoly heavily restricted Icelandic commerce. This significantly impacted the Westfjords’ fishing communities, as they were forced to sell their fish at low prices while relying on expensive imported goods.

However, by the 19th century, changes in trade laws and increased autonomy for Iceland helped revitalize the fishing industry, leading to more stable communities.

Modernization and Population Decline (20th Century–Present)

The 20th century brought significant changes to the Westfjords. The industrialisation of fishing, the introduction of motorised boats, and new fishing regulations allowed for greater economic growth, particularly in Ísafjörður. However, centralisation policies meant that larger towns benefited, while many smaller villages declined as people moved to Reykjavík and other urban centres in search of jobs and education.

By the late 20th century, the fishing quota system further contributed to the decline of small fishing villages, as many independent fishermen lost access to the industry. The combination of economic shifts, better infrastructure elsewhere, and changing lifestyles led to a sharp drop in population, with some villages becoming abandoned.

Today, the Westfjords remain one of Iceland’s least populated regions, but tourism, conservation efforts, and sustainable fishing are helping to revive local economies. The region’s stunning landscapes, rich folklore, and Viking heritage continue to draw visitors seeking an authentic, unique Icelandic experience.

Must Visit Museums in the Westfjords

The Icelandic Sorcery & Witchcraft Museum (Hólmavík)

???? Location: Hólmavík

The Icelandic Sorcery & Witchcraft Museum tells the dark and eerie history of witchcraft trials in Iceland, many of which took place in the Strandir region of the Westfjords during the 17th century. Unlike in many other parts of Europe, most of the people accused of witchcraft in Iceland were men, with only a small number of women facing execution.

Visitors can see gruesome artifacts related to these trials, including:

• Necropants (nábrók) – A disturbing piece of folk magic that involves wearing the flayed skin of a dead man’s legs to gain wealth.
• Magical staves and runes – Symbols used in Icelandic spells and rituals, believed to control the weather, bring luck, or curse enemies.
• Historical accounts of accused witches and their supposed crimes.

The Sea Monster Museum (Bíldudalur)

???? Location: Bíldudalur

The Sea Monster Museum (Skrímslasetrið) in Bíldudalur is dedicated to one of Iceland’s most intriguing legends – the mysterious creatures said to lurk in the waters of the Westfjords. For centuries, sailors and fishermen have reported sightings of strange sea monsters resembling giant serpents, shadowy figures, or massive fish with terrifying features.

This interactive museum presents:

• Eyewitness accounts of sea monster sightings in the Westfjords, some dating back hundreds of years.
• Drawings, models, and videos that explore different types of legendary sea creatures.
• Scientific theories and historical explanations behind these tales – from misidentified whales to optical illusions.

The Westfjords Heritage Museum (Ísafjörður)

???? Location: Ísafjörður

Located in Ísafjörður, the Westfjords Heritage Museum (Byggðasafn Vestfjarða) offers a fascinating look at the region’s maritime history, fishing traditions, and everyday life through the centuries. Fishing has always been the lifeblood of the Westfjords, and this museum tells the story of the people who built their lives around the sea.

Visitors can explore:

• Traditional wooden fishing boats, tools, and equipment used by fishermen from the 18th century onward.
• Stories of survival at sea, highlighting the dangers of fishing in the cold and unpredictable North Atlantic.
• Exhibits on daily life in the Westfjords, including homes, crafts, and local industries.

Ósvör Maritime Museum (Bolungarvík)

???? Location: Bolungarvík

For a step back in time, the Ósvör Maritime Museum is a fully restored 19th-century fishing station located in Bolungarvík, one of Iceland’s oldest fishing villages. Unlike modern trawlers, early Icelandic fishermen braved the icy Atlantic in open rowboats, relying on skill, superstition, and sheer determination.

The museum features:

• A recreated fisherman’s hut made of turf and stone, giving insight into the difficult conditions fishermen faced.
• Old fishing gear, clothing, and boats showing how people worked and survived at sea.
• Guides dressed in traditional fisherman’s clothing, offering engaging storytelling about life in a 19th-century fishing village.

Must Visit Natural Wonders in the Westfjords

Dynjandi Waterfall

???? Location: Arnarfjörður
Description: Known as the “Jewel of the Westfjords”, Dynjandi is the region’s largest and most spectacular waterfall. Cascading down a 100-metre-high mountainside in a wedding veil-like formation, it consists of multiple tiers, each adding to its dramatic beauty. A short but steep hiking path leads visitors past six smaller waterfalls, making the approach to Dynjandi a truly immersive experience.

???? Why Visit? Dynjandi’s sheer size, power, and beauty make it one of the most photogenic waterfalls in Iceland.

Things to Do:

• Walk the hiking trail to experience the different waterfalls leading up to Dynjandi.
• Have a picnic by the falls, surrounded by incredible scenery.
• Visit the nearby fjords of Arnarfjörður, known for their rich marine life and historical sites.

Rauðasandur Beach

???? Location: Near Patreksfjörður
Description: Unlike the black sand beaches found in most of Iceland, Rauðasandur stands out with its golden-red hues, which shift in colour depending on the light and weather. Stretching for over 10 kilometres, this vast and serene beach offers stunning ocean views, with the towering cliffs of Látrabjarg in the distance.

???? Why Visit? A peaceful, uncrowded escape offering a unique contrast to Iceland’s usual volcanic landscapes.

???? Things to Do:

• Spot seals sunbathing along the shore.
• Enjoy a scenic walk along the expansive sands.
• Visit the remains of a shipwreck from the early 20th century.
• Learn about the legend of Guðmundur of Rauðasandur, a man who was executed for a famous double murder at a nearby farm.

Látrabjarg Cliffs

???? Location: Westfjords’ westernmost point
Description: The Látrabjarg Cliffs are Europe’s largest seabird cliffs, stretching 14 km long and up to 440 metres high. This is one of the best places in Iceland to see puffins up close, as they nest in the cliffs during the summer months. The area is also home to razorbills, guillemots, and kittiwakes, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and photographers.

???? Why Visit? Aside from being one of the best birdwatching spots in the world, Látrabjarg is also Iceland’s westernmost point, offering breathtaking panoramic ocean views.

???? Things to Do:

• Walk along the cliffs and see puffins nesting in burrows.
• Capture stunning coastal photographs, especially at sunset.
• Learn about the 1947 shipwreck rescue, where local farmers saved 12 stranded sailors from the wreck of the British trawler Dhoon.

Hellulaug Hot Spring

???? Location: Vatnsfjörður, near Flókalundur, Westfjords
Description: Hellulaug is a natural geothermal pool tucked away on the shore of Vatnsfjörður, offering a quiet place to soak while overlooking the sea. The pool is about 38°C (100°F) year-round, with water flowing directly from a natural hot spring. Unlike some of Iceland’s more developed hot pools, Hellulaug has no changing facilities or entry fee, making it a true off-the-grid experience.

???? Why Visit? A peaceful and uncrowded hot spring with spectacular fjord views, perfect for unwinding after a long drive through the Westfjords.

???? Things to Do:

• Relax in the warm water while taking in the views of Breiðafjörður Bay.
• Visit Flókalundur, a short drive away, for food and basic amenities.
• Pair your visit with a scenic drive along the remote roads of the Westfjords.

Hesteyri (Hornstrandir Nature Reserve)

???? Location: Hornstrandir, accessible by boat from Ísafjörður
Description: Hesteyri is an abandoned village in the remote Hornstrandir Nature Reserve. It is one of the wildest and most untouched areas in Iceland. Once a thriving fishing community, it was deserted in the 1950s. Modern fishing techniques led to a decline in small-scale settlements. Today, visitors can explore the ghost town, where old wooden houses remain, surrounded by breathtaking mountains and fjords.

???? Why Visit? It offers a hauntingly beautiful experience, combining history, wilderness, and incredible Arctic landscapes.

???? Things to Do:

• Hike through the pristine landscapes of Hornstrandir.
• Visit the old houses, many of which are still maintained by their original families as summer homes.
• Learn about the ghost stories of Hesteyri, including tales of restless spirits wandering the village at night.

Best tours of The Westfjords

3-Day Adventure Tour: Explore the Westfjords

This 3-day guided tour takes you through the remote landscapes of the Westfjords, one of Iceland’s least-visited regions. You’ll travel along coastal roads, visit historic Viking sites, and see fjords, cliffs, and waterfalls while spotting puffins, seals, and whales.

The journey begins with a visit to Eiríksstaðir Viking Longhouse, the historic home of Erik the Red, before continuing through Vatnsfjörður Natural Reserve, known for its canyons and waterfalls. There’s an optional stop at Krosslaug Hot Pool for a geothermal soak before ending the day in Patreksfjörður for an overnight stay.

Day two includes a stop at Látrabjarg Cliffs, Iceland’s best spot for puffin-watching, followed by the red-gold sands of Rauðasandur Beach. The day’s highlight is Dynjandi Waterfall, the largest in the region, before arriving in Ísafjörður for the night.

On the final day, the tour explores the Bolafjall Skywalk, offering mountain views, and Ósvör Fishing Village, a restored maritime site. The journey continues along the Seven Fjords Route, where there’s a chance to see whales, seals, and arctic foxes, before returning to Reykjavík in the evening. This tour is a way to experience the landscape and history of the Westfjords.

RIB-Boat Whale Safari from Ísafjörður

This two-hour RIB-boat whale safari from Ísafjörður offers a view of the surrounding landscape from the sea. The tour begins with safety instructions and the distribution of warm overalls and life jackets, which are required onboard. Warm footwear and mittens are recommended, as it can get cold on the water.

The boat heads into Ísafjarðardjúp, a fjord region just off Ísafjörður, passing either Vigur Island or Snæfjallaströnd (Snow-Mountain Coast). Along the way, there is a good chance of seeing puffins, other seabirds, seals, and whales. The route varies depending on weather conditions, making each trip a unique experience. Time is allocated for photography before returning to Ísafjörður.

Hesteyri & Hornstrandir Day Tour

Hesteyri, an abandoned village in Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, is only accessible by boat. This guided day tour departs from Ísafjörður with a 70-minute boat ride across the Jökulfirðir (Glacier Fjords). In the late 1940s, the last residents decided to leave, and by 1952, the village was abandoned entirely. Upon arrival, the guide leads a walk through the village, sharing its history and life in such a remote area.

The tour also provides a chance to experience the quiet surroundings of Hornstrandir, a place known for its wildlife and hiking trails. The tour ends at the old Doctor’s House, where visitors are served traditional Icelandic refreshments. Along the way, there may be chances to spot seals, arctic foxes, or even whales. Visitors should dress for the weather with a waterproof jacket, sturdy shoes, a warm hat, and gloves. A camera is recommended. The tour includes walking on uneven paths unsuitable for wheelchairs or those with limited mobility.

The Best Places to Eat and Drink in the Westfjords

Tjöruhúsið

Location: Neðstikaupstaður, Ísafjörður
Description: Housed in one of Iceland’s oldest buildings, Tjöruhúsið is a must-visit seafood restaurant known for its buffet-style service featuring the freshest catch of the day. Guests can enjoy dishes like halibut, cod cheeks, and wolffish, all cooked in a traditional Icelandic style. The hearty fish soup is a particular highlight. This spot is incredibly popular with a rustic, communal dining atmosphere—reservations are highly recommended.

Húsið

Location: Aðalstræti 22b, Ísafjörður
Description: A cosy café and restaurant, Húsið serves a mix of Icelandic and international cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. It’s an excellent spot for coffee, breakfast, and casual dining, offering everything from hearty Icelandic meals to lighter options. The warm ambience and occasional live music nights make it a favourite among locals and visitors alike.

Simbahöllin

Location: Þingeyri, Westfjords
Description: Set in a beautifully restored historic house, Simbahöllin is famous for its Belgian waffles. It also serves homemade soups and fresh-baked cakes. The café focuses on organic, locally sourced ingredients. It offers a small but carefully curated menu. With its vintage decor and warm atmosphere, it’s a great spot to relax while exploring the Westfjords.

Fisherman Hotel & Restaurant

Location: Suðureyri, Westfjords
Description: Located in a sustainable fishing village, the Fisherman Hotel & Restaurant specialises in locally sourced seafood prepared with traditional Icelandic techniques. The restaurant emphasises eco-friendly fishing practices, allowing visitors to learn about sustainable seafood production while enjoying dishes made from the freshest fish available. The picturesque fjord-side setting makes for a memorable dining experience.

Folktales and Legends of the Westfjords

Milking a Distant Cow

On a farm in Hornstrandir, there once lived a couple suspected of practising witchcraft. They had a daughter who grew up in their household. When she reached adulthood, the local sheriff began investigating the family. The records do not mention what became of the parents, but when the sheriff questioned the daughter, she claimed to know nothing of magic—only how to milk cows.

The sheriff then asked her to demonstrate and chose a specific farm where the cow should be milked. The girl took a single blade of grass, inserted it into a hole in a wooden post, and placed a pail beneath it. She then began to milk the grass, filling the pail with fresh milk.

The sheriff urged her to continue, but she hesitated, saying that the cow would be harmed. When he insisted, she continued milking, and soon clots of blood appeared. Again, she warned that the cow was being injured, but the sheriff demanded she go on. Finally, as the milk turned to pure blood, she abruptly stopped and declared, “Now the cow is dead.”

At that same moment, on the chosen farm, the cow collapsed and died.

The Hidden Boy of Strengberg

The mountain above Hafrafell in Skutulsfjörður is called Kubbi. On the side facing Dagverðardalur, a strange black rock formation known as Strengberg juts out from the mountain.

A girl from Hafrafell began having dreams of an unknown man who repeatedly urged her to meet him, saying he lived in Strengberg. In the spring, while gathering sheep, she saw the same man from her dreams. They met again, grew close, and eventually fell in love. He told her he was a huldufólk boy living in Strengberg and invited her to visit. She promised to come and kept her word, returning many times. She later said that the hidden people were no different from ordinary humans.

One day, another girl saw her near Strengberg and found it strange to meet her there. When asked about it, she refused to explain her reason for being there. But after being questioned at home, she finally confessed everything. She was scolded and strictly forbidden from returning to Strengberg.

That night, she dreamed that her lover’s father came to her with a message—his son had died of grief the previous day.

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