West Iceland is an adventure into the country’s wilder landscapes. Cascading waterfalls carve through ancient lava fields while puffins gather along the rugged coastlines and Icelandic horses roam the open plains. Easily accessible within a few hours of Reykjavík, West Iceland offers fewer crowds and quieter landscapes.
At its heart lies the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in miniature” for its extraordinary concentration of natural wonders. Featuring luxurious hotels, the iconic Snæfellsnes national park, and a wide array of unique experiences, West Iceland offers a remote yet equally remarkable side of Iceland.
Where is West Iceland?
For the purposes of this guide, we define West Iceland as the sweeping region encompassing the Snæfellsnes peninsula, the waterfall of Glymur, the landscapes around Húsafell and the Langjökull glacier, and stretching as far south as Hvalfjörður.
We’ve intentionally excluded the Golden Circle in the South West, which we have covered in depth elsewhere, as well as the Highlands and the Westfjords, which we explore in our other region guides.
To reach the edge of this expansive area from Reykjavík, it takes little more than an hour, so many travellers like to fit West Iceland and Snæfellsnes into one or two day trips or as part of a longer itinerary.
Why Visit West Iceland?
For travellers seeking something beyond the well-trodden path, West Iceland offers a more exclusive and immersive experience.
- Fewer crowds and quieter landscapes
- A striking mix of volcanoes, glaciers and coastlines
- Exceptional wildlife, including puffins, whales, Icelandic goats and seals
- Access to the iconic Snæfellsnes Peninsula
- A slower, more considered pace of travel
Things to See in West Iceland
From ice caps visible from miles away to a stunning array of waterfalls, West Iceland offers picture-perfect sights that you won’t want to miss. Here are a few of our guides’ favourites.
Snæfellsjökull National Park
If the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is West Iceland’s crown jewel, then Snæfellsjökull National Park is the most sparkling diamond. Found at the westernmost tip of the peninsula, the National Park is host to a stunning array of sights – from volcanic craters to the black sand beaches, paired with an exceptional view of the Atlantic ocean.
But above it all is the titular stratovolcano, Snæfellsjökull, and the glacier that caps it. On clear days, this dazzling sight can be seen as far away as Reykjavík. The volcano is over seven-hundred-thousand years old, and has awed and inspired for centuries – most notably Jules Verne, who made the mountain the doorway to another world in Journey to the Center of the Earth.
Waterfalls at Hvalfjörður and Borgarfjörður
Two distinct areas of West Iceland offer two very different waterfall experiences, and both can be explored in the same day.
In Borgarfjörður, Hraunfossar emerges quietly from beneath a lava field, as water emerges quietly through the rock before tumbling down to the water below. Barnafoss, just around the corner, offers a striking contrast, its narrow, fast-moving rapids cutting through the rugged rock, giving a more dramatic experience. Its name, “the children’s waterfall”, stems from local folklore and gives a mythical majesty to the natural wonder.
Further south in Hvalfjörður lies Glymur, which holds the second-tallest waterfall in Iceland. For hikers, this is one of the most picturesque treks you can take. Whilst not an easy journey, the reward is worth the walk, as you’ll be treated to dramatic canyon views and an unmatched sense of scale the further you go along the trail. Visiting this waterfall is a full day out all on its own, so we recommend staying in the area for onward travel to explore the rest of West Iceland.
Black Church of Búðakirkja
Set against open lava fields to the south of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Búðakirkja Church stands in quiet contrast to its rural surroundings. First established in the early 18th century and still standing prominently today, this small black-wooden church draws visitors from far and wide to photograph this marvel.
Víðgelmir Lava Tunnel
Víðgelmir is home to the largest lava tunnel in Iceland, giving you guided access into the centre of the Earth. These tours take you deep beneath the lava fields, showing the world underneath, where colorful mineral deposits and vast walkways allow the world to sprawl.
Things to Do in West Iceland
Although West Iceland is a more remote region, it offers many unforgettable experiences. The travel experts at Hidden Iceland have spent years crafting personalised itineraries to help visitors uncover the region’s wonders.
Here are a few of our top recommendations for things to do in West Iceland and the surrounding areas.
Test Your Strength at the Húsafell Stone
Test your might with the legendary Húsafell stone, a staple of strongman competitions for centuries. Weighing in at 410lbs, its uneven shape and awkward weight distribution have proved a constant challenge, with the current carry world record held by Hafþór Júlíus Björnsson, better known as The Mountain from Game of Thrones.
Walk Between Hellnar and Arnarstapi
Hike across the coast via an old horse trail that connects two small fishing villages, forming one of the most gentle yet rewarding walks in the country. This easy mile-long walk takes in Hellnar’s rugged shoreline, the harbour at Arnarstapi, and seemingly endless views of the Atlantic. Whatever time of year you take the trek, you’ll be treated to spectacular scenery, from the snow-capped mountains on your left and the cliffs on the right.
Explore Inside Langjökull Glacier
Beneath the surface of Langjökull, Iceland’s second-largest glacier, lies the world’s longest man-made ice tunnel, which invites visitors to step inside the ice itself. And for those looking to venture further, or to sightsee at speed, the glacier serves as a base for snowmobiling across the vast expanse. An experience that pairs scale with a sense of true isolation.
Encounter Seals & Horses
At Ytri Tunga, seals are often seen resting across the shoreline, making it one of the most reliable places to observe both harbour and grey seals in their natural habitat – particularly in summer. Further inland, horseback riding across lava fields and open coastal plains offers a slower way to experience the landscape, moving across the land in a way that feels timeless and distinctly West Iceland.
Best Places to Stay in West Iceland
While the natural wonders of West Iceland draw you in, it’s the premium comfort of your accommodation that completes the experience. After a day spent exploring the wilderness, retreating to ultimate comfort is what travel truly should be. Here are a few of our favourite places to rest our heads and recharge in the region.
Hótel Búðir
A countryside escape with a breathtaking view, Hótel Búðir feels secluded and exclusive. Settled along the southern edge of the Snaefellsnes peninsula, this retreat provides minimalist interiors and an intimate atmosphere to help you relax, whilst the location provides ample opportunities to explore the surrounding fields and shoreline on foot.
Dalur Luxury Resort
Dalur, found at the foot of the Elliðatindar mountains, offers an expansive and tranquil retreat. With over a thousand hectares of rolling hills and lakes, this stay is perfect for those wanting a quiet adventure to bring them closer to nature, with a historic, fully renovated farmhouse to make your evenings blissful.
Hótel Húsafell
Hidden away on the edge of the Highlands, the Hótel Húsafell is a luxury accommodation in an unforgettable location. Rooms feature original Icelandic art and organic local toiletries, while its location – far from artificial light – means guests get a front row seat to the spectacle of the Northern Lights. This hotel in particular is a favourite on our family friendly trips when travelling with little ones.
When is the Best Time to Visit West Iceland?
The stunning backdrop of Iceland’s most photographed peak, Kirkjufell, and its neighbouring waterfalls, Kirkufellsfoss, provide a prime example of how West Iceland and Snæfellsnes Peninsula can transform across the different seasons. Due to well maintained, albeit winding, roads through the region, and the short distance from the capital city, a local guide will happily explore this area with you, year round.
- In spring, you can experience a shifting landscape, as traces of winter linger in the remaining snow and the days become longer. By May, daylight is present late into the evening, while along the peninsula, you’ll be able to experience many of Iceland’s legendary landscapes – from coastline to glacier – in a single day.
- In summer, the Midnight Sun shines all night long, allowing for unhurried exploration and later visits to more popular places. This gives perfect photo opportunities for West Iceland’s most notable sights. Kirkjufell Mountain in particular is a highlight, with its distinctly shaped silhouette standing prominently against the endless daylight.
- In autumn, hiking across West Iceland is a dream painted in rich Autumnal colors. Walking across the almost empty national park as mosses and low shrubs turn shades of gold and crimson is a picture perfect experience, particularly in the cooler weather.
- In winter, the region transforms again. Glaciers and ice caves can be explored, and there’s an endless appeal to sinking into a hot spring while snow surrounds the ground around you. And the long nights bring a promise of the Northern Lights.
West Iceland FAQs
What is West Iceland known for?
West Iceland is known for its diverse scenery, including volcanoes, glaciers, waterfalls and coastal cliffs, as well as its quieter, more exclusive feel.
Is the Snæfellsnes Peninsula worth visiting?
Yes, it offers a condensed version of Iceland’s landscapes, making it one of the most rewarding regions to explore. This region can be explored as a long day trip (circa 11 hours) from Reykjavík, but for a slower pace we recommend at least 1 night in the region to really explore.
Where can I see puffins in West Iceland?
During the summer months, you’ll find puffins by Breiðafjörður Bay. Visit in the mornings, and keep your distance – puffins mostly make their home on the edge of steep cliffs, and should be approached with care. To find out more, you can read our blog on where to spot puffins in Iceland.
Should I explore West Iceland by car?
Exploring West Iceland and the Snaefellsnes peninsula on a self-drive tour can be an adventure in itself, as you’re free to explore the wondrous surroundings at your own pace. This is manageable between April and October, with the summer months being particularly well suited for self drive. But if you’d rather not be behind a wheel, we at Hidden Iceland can also have a dedicated guide show you the sights.
How many days should I spend in West Iceland?
We recommend at least 2 to 3 days to see the sights and relax. With that amount of time, you’ll still need to be a little selective with your stops and activity choices, but should be able to get a really good snapshot of this expansive area. West Iceland is full of experiences and things to see, from exploring the wonders of the waterfalls to relaxing under Northern Lights. You’ll want to take the time to fully embrace and explore this exceptional area.
Ready to explore West Iceland?
Hidden Iceland creates bespoke itineraries for your adventure, meaning your journey explores the areas you’re most interested in. After years of experience in guiding travellers around our stunning country, we know how to shape an experience that goes beyond the expected.
Get in touch today by calling us at +354-770-5733 or by emailing info@hiddeniceland.is, and we’ll begin planning your adventure.
If you want to get inspired, explore our private Iceland tours page with example itineraries.