ON a rugged & remote peninsula in northwest ICELAND — the cliffs high above the sea . . . a captivating and true adventure awaits…
The Westfjords may be remote, but they are a true gem within Iceland's dramatic and captivating landscape. Not many tourists venture to the Westfjords, but those that do have only said intriguing and positive things. Driving the roads here gave me the feeling that I may have been on the set of Stephen King’s ‘The Mist’ — there were moments when I could see only a few feet in front of me…yes, the fog rolls in that quickly and thickly. You may have heard how Iceland can experience all four seasons in one day? When you are in the Westfjords - this definitely happens - and I loved every second of it. It’s all part of the adventure.
Most won’t decide to take the drive or adventure to the Westfjords as it is more remote than some of the other regions reachable from Reykjavik in one trip. The Golden Circle and South Iceland will always be the most common points of interest, as this is where most tours go.
As I approached the rental home in Patreksfjörður — my mind was clear and calm, and I was extremely excited to experience all that the Westfjords wanted to show me. I had 4 days to explore the region. The home I stayed in was surrounded by fjords, ocean, and wildlife in every direction. And it was a stunning Nordic designed masterpiece.
The town of Ísafjörður (fjord of ice) is a fantastic 2-3 hour stop. It is situated only about 45 minutes from the Arctic Cirlce. I absolutely fell in love with the views from every point imaginable in Ísafjörður. I had some of the best food at Tjöruhúsið and I definitely recommend a meal here. The hospitality and kindness of Icelanders is above and beyond.
// HOW TO GET TO THE WESTFJORDS
You can get to the Westfjords by car, by ferry, or by plane, but I definitely suggest driving if time allows you to. The landscape and topography on the way is incredibly breathtaking and you won’t want to miss it.
// THE WEATHER & WHEN TO VISIT
The Temps are chilly averaging around 50F in June and weather is very unpredictable on the Westfjords. The wind can get wicked crazy and it can happen out of nowhere. Pack prepared! Wind/waterproof jackets, warm gloves and hats, and waterproof ankle boots to start. Typically the best time of year to visit the Westfjords will be from June through September. That last time I was there was in the beginning of September and it was glorious! No rain, no wind, but as previously stated - it is a bit of a wildcard in The Westfjords and throughout all of Iceland.
// STAY
Select rentals via Airbnb + VRBO.
The Hotel Edda
The Hotel Ísafjörður
// EAT
Tjöruhúsið - incredible local cuisine, friendly staff, and perfect Nordic vibes.
Stúkuhúsið - the bread here was delicious.
Húsið - seafood soup, coffee house, and live music all in one.
The Westfjords are a true adventurers place to play! You will not be disappointed when you see this stunning, but definitely remote region of Iceland.