SamuelIceland’s Westfjords: A Wild Road Trip Adventure
The Westfjords of Iceland offer a stunning mix of untouched nature and thrilling adventure. With dramatic fjords, secluded beaches, and unique wildlife, this region is a paradise for both explorers and casual visitors alike. In this article, we will guide you through key locations and experiences you won’t want to miss on your Westfjords road trip.
Exploring Westfjords – Best Done on Wheels for an Unforgettable Road Trip
Road Trip Paradise:
The Westfjords is such a perfect region for a secluded mini Icelandic road-trip steeped in beautiful nature, sceneries, and that ‘edge-of-the-world’ vibe. You can spend anywhere from 1 day to a whole week to explore all the sites through its zig-zag and meandering roads alongside the towering fjords, carved eons ago from the previous ice age. Westfjords provides incredible routes for a road trip, where you’ll encounter picturesque landscapes. Stop wherever you like to enjoy a picnic or take photos.
Camping in the Westfjords:
Camping in the Westfjords is an adventure in itself. The experience is economical, but amenities are basic. Expect a straightforward setup with no showers, making it essential to pack wisely. Bring portable showers, extra blankets, and camp stoves.
Check out the sites to visit:
1. Drangsnes Hot Pools and the Geothermal Wonders
Relaxation and Rejuvenation for Your Road Trip:
After a night of camping, visiting the Drangsnes Hot Pools is so refreshing. Soaking in the hot geothermal waters while breathing in the cool Icelandic air is an experience like no other. This delightful contrast makes for a perfect start for exploring this region.
Other Geothermal Sites:
The Westfjords are rich with geothermal sites. From natural hot springs to geysers, options abound. Other popular locations include Hellulaug and Draflastadir, which are worth exploring.
Practical Advice:
Plan your visit to the hot pools in advance. Bring your essentials like towels and snacks and be prepared to brace the bone-chilling Icelandic wind. Drangsnes Hot Pools are accessible practically 24/7, but be mindful of the surroundings.
2. Breathtaking Waterfalls of Dynjandi and Valagil
Dynjandi Waterfall:
Hiking to Dynjandi is a must. This is certainly one of the most beautiful and picturesque waterfalls in Iceland and even in the whole world. At an almost 100 meters high, Dynjandi cascades majestically down the cliffside in steps. The short yet very rewarding hike offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, truly a place to remember for a lifetime.
Valagil Waterfall:
This charming waterfall is only an easy hike away from the road. Tucked in a towering Westfjords cliff, this waterfall makes for a worthwhile side-trip during your epic road trip.
3. Wildlife Encounters: Seals and Puffins
Seal Colonies at Hvítanes:
Hvítanes is a small farm by the coast with an amazing view, and where you can spot seal colonies nearby. Observing seal colonies is a delightful experience, seeing those majestic yet cute creatures lazing around on the rocky shore or moving around merrily without a care in the world. Early morning or late afternoon are perfect times for sightings.
Puffin Paradise:
Hands down, Látrabjarg cliffs offer an incredible birdwatching opportunity, some of the best in the world. Puffins nest here in large numbers, in their hundreds of thousands, alongside other arctic birds, making it a bird lover’s dream. These cute puffins nest here during the summer, before heading out back to sea in winter in search of food elsewhere warmer. In Látrabjarg, they can be so close to you that it seems like you can touch them. However, when viewing puffins, keep a respectful distance to avoid disturbing them, and mind your own step to not tumble down the cliffside (the puffins can fly, you can’t). The safest way to observe them is to lie flat on the ground at the cliff edge.
4. Coastal Adventure: Shipwrecks, Red Sand Beach, and Latrar Air Station
Garđar BA 64, The Oldest Steel Shipwreck:
A visit to Garđar BA 64, the oldest steel shipwreck in Iceland, is a fascinating stop. This historical site tells stories of the past about the now-rusty ship, but always prioritize safety when visiting such a place since parts of the crumbling ship can fall off without warning, just like when visiting the plane wreck in South Iceland.
Rauðisandur Red Beach:
Rauðisandur beach is unique with its golden-red sand. Like in majority of Icelandic beaches, swimming might not be ideal, but it’s a great spot for a stroll or a picnic. The towering cliff in the background makes for a breathtaking setting of this beautiful beach. Seek out the areas where the sand is truly red.
Latrar Air Station:
A cold war era relic built by the NATO, it used to be a radio station but is presently used by the Icelandic coast guard. The surrounding area provides amazing view points high up the cliffs by the sea.
Planning Your Westfjords Adventure: Key Takeaways
Itinerary Suggestions:
Consider at least a 3-day long itinerary that includes key spots like Dynjandi and Látrabjarg. Mixing hiking, wildlife watching, and soaking in hot springs will maximize your experience. Ísafjörđur is the main city in Westfjords, an ideal base for your exploration and for stockpiling food and amenities.
Mind The Weather:
While we were unbelieveably lucky to get three full sunny days while in Westfjords, this region can throw some of the harshest weather conditions in Iceland at you. Be prepared for any weather and be mindful of your safety while visiting precarious spots or remote locations in Westfjords.
Final Thoughts:
The Westfjords are a hidden gem waiting to be discovered, best done on wheels to reach its outermost and farthest places. Its untouched beauty and unique adventures make it a must-visit destination in Iceland, away from the majority of the crowds in the south. Start planning your journey to experience everything this region has to offer. Check out our road trip through Westfjords, Iceland, in this video below:
