Guide to Driving the Westfjords of Iceland

Planning a road trip in Iceland? Most travellers stick to the Ring Road, the Golden Circle or the South Coast — all great in their own way. But then there are the Westfjords.

Wilder, quieter and far less travelled, this is where Iceland feels truly remote. Roads wind around deep fjords, the pace slows down, and the journey becomes just as important as the stops along the way.

Whether you’re spending a couple of days or planning a full Westfjords road trip, here’s everything you need to know to explore it properly.

What and Where Are the Westfjords in Iceland?

The Westfjords sit in the north-west of Iceland, forming a rugged peninsula that stretches towards Greenland. It’s one of the least visited regions in the country, not because it lacks beauty, but because it requires more time to explore.

This is a region of deep fjords, steep mountains and scattered coastal communities. Key hubs include Ísafjörður, Patreksfjörður and Þingeyri, while Hornstrandir stands apart as one of the most isolated areas in Iceland.

What to See and Do in the Westfjords

The Westfjords are best explored by combining a few standout sights with time on the road.

Dynjandi Waterfall

Dynjandi is the largest waterfall in the Westfjords and one of the most distinctive in Iceland. The approach takes you past a series of smaller cascades before revealing the main falls, which spread out in wide tiers over a 100-metre drop. The walk to the top takes around 15 minutes and makes the experience feel gradual, building up to the full view of the waterfall.

Látrabjarg Cliffs

Látrabjarg is a dramatic sea cliff and one of the best places in Iceland to see puffins during the summer months. Stretching for over 14 kilometres, it is home to large seabird colonies, including puffins, guillemots and razorbills. The cliffs rise sharply from the ocean, offering expansive views across the North Atlantic.

Rauðasandur Beach

Rauðasandur stands out for its unusual colouring, with shades of red, gold and pink replacing Iceland’s more common black sands. The beach extends for several kilometres and changes appearance depending on the light and tide. Access involves a steep but manageable drive, which helps keep visitor numbers low.

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Hellulaug 

Hellulaug is a small geothermal pool located just off the roadside near Flókalundur. Its natural setting, right by the water, makes it feel simple and unspoilt. There are no facilities, so it’s best suited for a quick stop rather than a long stay.

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Krossneslaug

Krossneslaug is located on the remote northern coast and is one of the most isolated swimming pools in Iceland. Unlike natural pools, it is a maintained facility with changing rooms, but its appeal lies in its setting — directly facing the ocean, with waves often visible just beyond the pool edge.

Drangajökull Glacier

The northernmost glacier in Iceland and the only one in the Westfjords. It forms a broad ice cap and is typically accessed via rough roads requiring a 4x4. This glacier offers rewarding hiking opportunities and a chance to explore one of the more remote natural features in the region.

Hornstrandir Nature Reserve

Hornstrandir is one of the least disturbed areas in Iceland, with no roads or permanent infrastructure. Access is by boat, usually from Ísafjörður. Known for its dramatic cliffs and remote hiking trails, it’s also one of the best places to spot Arctic foxes in a truly wild setting. There are no shops or services, so visitors need to be fully self-sufficient.

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The Fjords

The fjords themselves define the region. Each one has its own character, with narrow inlets, steep mountain sides and small settlements tucked along the shoreline. Driving around them often involves long detours, but these routes provide some of the most scenic stretches in Iceland.

Garðar BA 64 Shipwreck

This historic ship ran aground in 1981 and has remained in place ever since. Built in Norway in 1912, it is the oldest steel ship in Iceland. Its weathered structure and open surroundings make it a popular photography spot.

Arctic Fox Centre

The Arctic Fox Centre in Súðavík focuses on research and conservation of Iceland’s native fox. It provides information on how the species has adapted to the environment and how it interacts with human activity. The centre also occasionally houses rescued animals.

Litlibær

Litlibær is a restored turf farm built in 1895. The buildings are constructed using traditional techniques, with thick turf walls providing insulation against harsh weather. Inside, you can see how families lived and worked in this remote region over a century ago.

The Old Herring Factory at Djúpavík

This large concrete structure dates back to the early 20th century, when herring fishing was a major industry in Iceland. The factory operated until the mid-20th century and now stands as a reminder of that era. Guided tours are available and provide insight into both the building and the history of the area.

Museum of Icelandic Sorcery & Witchcraft

Located in Hólmavík, this museum explores Iceland’s history of magic and superstition. Exhibits include historical texts, artefacts and stories that reflect how people once tried to understand and influence their environment. It offers a cultural contrast to the natural focus of the rest of the region.

Here’s a map of the main locations across the Westfjords to help you visualise distances and plan your route:

The Best Time to Visit the Westfjords

Summer (June to August) is the most accessible time to visit. Roads are open, conditions are more predictable and wildlife is active. The landscape is at its greenest, and despite being peak season, the region remains relatively uncrowded.

Spring and autumn offer quieter conditions and more atmospheric landscapes, with shifting colours and fewer visitors. However, weather and road conditions can be less predictable.

Winter brings dramatic scenery, with snow-covered mountains and stark coastal views. However, access is limited and travel requires careful planning.

Each season offers a different perspective, but summer is the most straightforward for most travellers.

How to Get to the Westfjords of Iceland 

While the Westfjords feel remote, they are still relatively easy to reach. The region lies just over 200 kilometres from Reykjavík and more than 300 kilometres from Akureyri, and can be accessed in several ways depending on how you prefer to travel.

Driving is by far the most popular and flexible option. From Reykjavík, the journey typically takes around five hours, depending on your route and stops along the way. You’ll follow the Ring Road before turning onto Route 60, which leads into the Westfjords. Having your own car allows you to explore at your own pace and make spontaneous stops — something that quickly becomes part of the experience in this region.

If you’d rather not drive the full distance, flying is the fastest alternative. There are regular flights from Reykjavík to airports in the Westfjords, with a journey time of under an hour. Keep in mind that flights are more limited during the winter months, and you’ll still need a car once you arrive to explore beyond the main towns.

Bus connections are available from various parts of Iceland, but they are limited and mainly connect larger towns. This option can work for reaching the region, but it won’t give you the flexibility needed to explore it fully without additional transport.

How to Get Around in the Westfjords

Once you are in the Westfjords, having your own vehicle becomes essential. Public transport is limited and mainly connects towns, leaving most natural attractions difficult to reach without a car.

Driving is the best way to experience the region. Roads pass along the contours of the fjords and through landscapes where even a short distance can take longer than you might expect.

With your own vehicle, you can travel at your own pace and stop safely whenever something catches your attention — whether that is a viewpoint, a quiet stretch of coastline or a hidden spot along the road.

Choosing the Right Vehicle to Explore the Westfjords

Choosing the right vehicle depends mainly on the season and how far you plan to go beyond the main routes. The table above gives you a quick overview — but here’s what it means in practice.

While most roads in the Westfjords are technically accessible with a 2WD vehicle, conditions vary more than you might expect. Many routes are gravel, less maintained and often uneven, especially as you move away from the main towns. If you’re sticking to main roads in summer, a 2WD can be enough. However, for greater flexibility, comfort and the ability to explore more remote locations — as well as for travel outside peak summer — a 4x4 is the better overall choice.

Season is another key factor. In summer, you can choose your vehicle based on your itinerary. From autumn through to spring — and especially in winter — a 4x4 becomes essential, as weather and road conditions can change quickly with snow, ice and strong winds.

Driving comfort is also worth considering. Roads in the Westfjords involve constant turns, climbs and descents. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, choosing an automatic vehicle can make long driving days noticeably easier.

Insurance should not be overlooked either. Gravel roads are common across the region, so having coverage that includes gravel protection is strongly recommended to avoid unexpected damage costs.

If you want more flexibility in how you travel, a campervan is also a great option. It allows you to stay closer to nature and adapt your plans as you go — something that works particularly well in a region where distances are long and plans often evolve along the way.

Driving in the Westfjords: Road Conditions & Tips

Driving in the Westfjords is very different from driving the Ring Road or the Golden Circle. Roads are often narrower, with more gravel sections, fewer guardrails and less frequent maintenance. The terrain is mountainous and rugged, and conditions can change quickly.

This does not make the region unsafe, but it does require a more careful approach. Slower speeds, full attention and adapting to changing conditions are essential.

Allow extra time for each journey, especially on gravel roads or through mountain passes. Checking road conditions on www.road.is  and weather forecasts on www.vedur.is before and during your trip is also highly recommended.

Fuel stations are limited, so it is wise to fill up whenever you have the chance. Taking regular breaks and stopping at safe viewpoints will also make the drive much more enjoyable.

Suggested 3-Day Westfjords Itinerary

To explore the Westfjords properly, plan at least three full days. This allows you to travel at a relaxed pace and enjoy the region without rushing.

Distances can be misleading, as roads wind around fjords and over mountain passes rather than following direct routes, making journeys longer than they appear on a map.

If you’re short on time, this 3-day itinerary offers a well-balanced introduction to the region while still giving you the flexibility to explore along the way.

Day 1: Reykjavík to Southern Westfjords

Start early from Reykjavík and follow the Ring Road before turning onto Route 60. As you enter the Westfjords, the landscape quickly becomes more dramatic, with winding roads and wide fjord views.

Make your way towards Patreksfjörður. On the way, stop at Hellulaug hot pool for a quick soak and continue to Rauðasandur beach, where the colours and open space offer a completely different feel from the rest of Iceland.

If time allows, continue to Látrabjarg cliffs in the evening. This is one of the best places in Iceland to see puffins during summer, and the cliffs themselves are just as impressive as the wildlife.

Day 2: Dynjandi and Ísafjörður

Head north towards Dynjandi waterfall, one of the most iconic stops in the region. Take your time walking up past the smaller cascades before reaching the main falls.

Continue your journey towards Ísafjörður, following the fjords along the way. This stretch of road is one of the highlights of the trip, with constant changes in scenery.

In the afternoon, explore Ísafjörður or take a short detour to nearby villages. If you have time, visit the Arctic Fox Centre or simply enjoy the atmosphere of the town.

Day 3: Northern Fjords and Return

For your final day, you can either explore further north or begin your return journey with a few additional stops.

Options include heading towards Krossneslaug for a remote geothermal experience, or stopping in Hólmavík to visit the Museum of Icelandic Sorcery & Witchcraft.

On your way back, take your time driving through smaller fjords and villages. Some of the best moments in the Westfjords come from unplanned stops along the road.

Plan your return with extra time, as distances can take longer than expected.

Places to Stay in the Westfjords

Choosing the right base in the Westfjords can shape your trip. Distances are longer than they appear on the map, so where you stay affects how much ground you can comfortably cover each day. From small towns with services to remote villages and wilderness camping, each option offers a different experience.

Ísafjörður

Ísafjörður is the largest town in the Westfjords and the region’s main hub. It’s the best place to stay if you want easy access to restaurants, supermarkets, fuel and cultural spots, while still being surrounded by fjord scenery. It also works well as a base for exploring the northern fjords and nearby villages.

Patreksfjörður

Located in the southern Westfjords, Patreksfjörður is a practical base for visiting Látrabjarg cliffs and Rauðasandur beach. It’s quieter than Ísafjörður but still offers accommodation, fuel and basic services, making it a convenient stop when exploring the south of the region.

Hólmavík

Hólmavík sits on the eastern side of the Westfjords and works well as a stopover when entering or leaving the region. It’s known for the Museum of Icelandic Sorcery & Witchcraft and offers a handful of guesthouses and small hotels, making it a good transitional base rather than a central hub.

Reykhólar

Reykhólar is a small, peaceful village that suits travellers looking to slow things down. Accommodation options are limited but comfortable, and the surrounding landscapes make it a relaxing place to spend a night, especially at the beginning or end of your route.

Flateyri

Just a short drive from Ísafjörður, Flateyri offers a quieter alternative while still being close to the region’s main services. It has a strong local character, a few small museums and a handful of guesthouses, making it ideal if you prefer a more low-key base.

Staying in Hornstrandir

Hornstrandir is completely different from the rest of the Westfjords when it comes to accommodation. There are no hotels, guesthouses or services. If you plan to stay here, it is typically done through wild camping or by using simple, pre-booked huts.

Most visitors base themselves in Ísafjörður and take a boat into the reserve for day trips or multi-day hikes. If you choose to stay overnight, you’ll need to bring all necessary equipment, including food and safety gear, as there are no facilities on site.

This makes Hornstrandir best suited for experienced travellers who are prepared for remote conditions, but it also offers one of the most unique and immersive overnight experiences in Iceland.

Are the Westfjords of Iceland Worth It?

Absolutely! The Westfjords is a great region to visit, with lots to do, few tourist crowds and spectacular scenery for days. Whether you're interested in seeing the natural wonders of Iceland, the waterfalls and fjords, small villages, hot springs or wildlife, you can find all this and more in the Westfjords. 

Start Your Westfjords Adventure with Lava Car Rental 

The best way to experience the Westfjords is with the freedom to explore at your own pace.

With Lava Car Rental, you can rely on a smooth, flexible experience from the moment you arrive. With essential insurance included, self-service pick-up and no young driver fees, you’re set up for a straightforward journey.

Choose a reliable 4x4 or campervan, take your time on the road and discover one of Iceland’s most unforgettable regions properly.

Book your car today and start planning your Westfjords journey.