West Iceland Travel Guide (2025 Itinerary & Must-Sees)

Jon Miksis Jon Miksis clock Updated February 8, 2025 tourism Dream Destinations
by Jon Miksis
Hraunfossar
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Man, I still can’t believe I’ve road tripped around West Iceland 10 times now. Everyone rushes south, but this wild stretch of coastline has totally stolen my heart. And guess what? You get all the good stuff – glaciers, hot springs, waterfalls – without fighting through crowds of selfie sticks.

Last time I was here, I spent my mornings watching seals sunbathe on black sand beaches and my afternoons exploring massive lava caves at Vidgelmir. The Snaefellsnes Peninsula feels like Iceland cranked up to 11 – we’re talking steaming pools at Krauma, waterfalls everywhere you look in Borgarfjordur, and whales breaching right off the coast. And of course, nothing beats watching the northern lights dance in the sky! After all these years exploring every corner of West Iceland, I’ve finally nailed down the perfect road trip route – and I can’t wait to share it with you.

West Iceland itinerary at a glance

Just north of Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik, lies West Iceland. As one of Iceland’s 8 regions, Vesturland embodies pristine natural beauty without the overbearing tourism encountered in the South.

In its rustic countryside, you will find Europe’s second largest glacier, Iceland’s largest cave, and Iceland’s highest waterfall. You’ll also uncover enchanting lava fields, quaint farms, and powerful hot springs, all while soaking in the crisp fresh air and scenic mountain views. Though only scratching the surface, I have been fortunate to explore and appreciate the many wonders of West Iceland.

Here’s a quick-hit superlative section to get you excited for what’s to come:

  • 🚗 Best Road Trip Stop: Kirkjufell & Kirkjufellsfoss
  • 💎 Hidden Gem: The Lava Waterfalls of Hraunfossar
  • 🔥 Best Geothermal Experience: Krauma Hot Springs
  • 🐋 Best Wildlife Spot: Whale Watching in Grundarfjörður
  • 🕵️‍♂️ Most Underrated Adventure: Víðgelmir Lava Cave

When you’re planning your Iceland adventure, I recommend checking out these two itineraries below.

Western Iceland travel

Two West Iceland Itineraries

During our two visits to West Iceland, it was surreal to experience its sublime scenery and charm. Last fall, we visited Snæfellsnes, the westernmost peninsula in the region, which gave me a taste of Iceland’s natural beauty. My favorite stop along the road-trip was Mt. Kirkjufell and its adjoining waterfall brethren, Kirkjufellsfoss. Just shy of a 3-hour drive from Reykjavik, Kirkjufell was among the most awe-inspiring natural formations I’ve ever seen.

Shockingly, I saw more waterfalls than people during this road-trip. I also saw the most photogenic horses imaginable, which deserve a separate blog post in and of themselves. Above all, this trip inspired us to return to West Iceland to check out more of its spectacular landscape. During our most recent Icelandic adventure, we had the pleasure and privilege to explore another magnificent area, Borgarfjörður!

Option 1: Adventure Seekers (3 Days)

  • 🏔 Day 1: Snæfellsnes Peninsula – Kirkjufell, Black Sand Beaches, Djúpalónssandur Lava Beach
  • 🛶 Day 2: Caving in Víðgelmir, Ice-Trekking on Langjökull Glacier
  • 💦 Day 3: Relax in Krauma, Hraunfossar Waterfalls

Option 2: Slow Travel & Relaxation (3 Days)

  • 🌊 Day 1: Borgarfjörður – Hot Springs, Waterfalls, Small Town Exploration
  • 🐎 Day 2: Horseback Riding at Sturlureykir & Geothermal Baths
  • 🚢 Day 3: Whale Watching & Puffin Spotting
Kirkjufell
Kirkjufell

Borgarfjörður

Borgarfjörður, a fjord nestled in West Iceland, is the ideal day-trip from Reykjavik. About 1.5 hours from the capital, it offers a glimpse of life in the countryside and nature at its finest. During our visit, we went horseback riding, embarked on a cave tour, and enjoyed the sensational geothermal baths. We were also left in awe by lava field waterfalls and glaciers, which reminded us why Iceland is called the Land of Fire and Ice.

After a long day of exploring, nothing beats a steaming bowl of Icelandic lamb soup at Húsafell Bistro, where the cozy atmosphere feels like a warm hug from Iceland itself.

West Iceland

Sturlureykir

We began our day by visiting Sturlureykir-Visiting Horse Farm, a family-run farm in Reykholt. Sturlureykir has a welcoming atmosphere– providing visitors with homemade coffee and bread, as well as an authentic horseback riding experience.

We went riding for an hour, surrounded by scenic mountains, streams, and a gentle breeze I will never forget. The horses were incredibly well-behaved as they guided us through the enchanting Icelandic terrain. We trotted through streams and around hot springs, all while being accompanied by the resident watchdog—who escorted us the whole way!

The owners, Hrafnhildur and Jóhannes, are very warm and friendly, and made us feel right at home. They also provide tours around the stable, offering visitors with an exciting opportunity to take pictures with their photogenic horses.

There’s something magical about riding an Icelandic horse across the wild, open landscape. The wind rushes past, the smell of fresh earth fills the air, and for a moment, it feels like you’ve stepped into a Viking saga. Whether you’d like to ride horses in a picturesque setting or simply take selfies with them, I highly recommend visiting the Sturlureykir Horse Farm!

Sturlureykir Hrafnhildur
Hrafnhildur Guðmundsdóttir, Co-owner of Sturlureykir
Sturlureykir Johannes
Jóhannes Kristleifsson, Co-owner of Sturlureykir

Hraunfossar Lava Falls

Next, we stopped by Hraunfossar, which is in my opinion one of the most mesmerizing waterfalls in all of Iceland. Formed by rivulets that stream out of a nearby lava field, these “Lava Falls” are inextricably unique.

Unlike Iceland’s thunderous waterfalls, Hraunfossar feels almost poetic—delicate ribbons of water trickling through lava rock, creating a mesmerizing contrast of dark basalt and bright blue.

Last year, a local told me that his family takes pictures there every year for their Christmas card. After visiting this breathtaking site and seeing its wonder firsthand, I can definitely understand why!

Hraunfossar Lava Falls
Hraunfossar Lava Falls

Víðgelmir Cave

After chasing waterfalls, we next ventured over to Iceland’s largest and mightiest cave, Víðgelmir. Formed over 1000 years ago, this impressive cave is nearly one-mile long and exhibits intriguing lava formations. The Cave is a family-owned tour that offers an insightful underground experience. During our 1-hour tour of Víðgelmir, it was fascinating to learn about the historic and scientific context behind Iceland’s most captivating cave.

Stepping into Víðgelmir is like descending into another world—lava tubes stretch out like an underground labyrinth, and the silence is so deep, it’s almost eerie.

The Cave
Víðgelmir Cave

Krauma Geothermal Baths

To properly cap off our West Iceland adventure, we then stopped by Krauma to unwind in its geothermal baths. Open year-round, Krauma offers a heavenly geothermal spa experience that is powered by Europe’s mightiest hot spring.

Overlooking the pristine Icelandic countryside, Krauma has 5 warm baths and 1 cold bath that are perfect for those seeking relaxation. Interestingly, Krauma combines hot spring water with cool glacial water to reach an ideal bathing temperature. Though much less touristy than the Blue Lagoon, you can still enjoy an ice-cold Viking beer or glass of wine as you gaze at the tranquil landscape! No crowds, no reservations months in advance—just pure, uninterrupted relaxation.

Krauma
Krauma Geothermal Baths

🚗 How to Get Around West Iceland

Here are some essential logistics to help you plan their road trip.

  • Renting a Car vs. Campervan: If you want flexibility, renting a car is the way to go. But if you’re up for a rugged adventure, a campervan lets you sleep under the stars.
  • Road Conditions & Best Time to Visit:
    • Summer (June–August): Best for road conditions, midnight sun, and wildlife.
    • Winter (November–March): Northern lights but icy roads—4WD highly recommended!
  • Driving Tips:
    • Fill Up on Gas: Gas stations are sparse, so don’t let your tank drop below half.
    • Be Wary of F-Roads: Some require 4WD and aren’t accessible year-round.
    • Watch for Sheep! Icelandic sheep roam freely and may wander onto roads.

🌋 Hidden Gems of West Iceland

Based on my road trip adventures through Iceland, here are some lesser-known spots worth visiting.

  • 🧙‍♂️ Djúpalónssandur Black Sand Beach – A dramatic coastline with eerie shipwreck remains.
  • 🕳 Vatnshellir Cave – A less crowded lava cave than Víðgelmir, with a spiral staircase into darkness.
  • 🌿 Landbrotalaug Hot Spring – A tiny, secluded hot spring with epic mountain views.
  • 💎 Hvítserkur Rock Formation – A unique sea stack off the northwestern coast that looks like a petrified dragon.

🥘 Where to Eat in West Iceland

In this section, I want to highlight local cuisine so you’ll know where to refuel.

  • 🍲 Húsafell Bistro (Borgarfjörður) – Cozy, traditional Icelandic dishes with a fireplace ambiance.
  • 🐟 Bjargarsteinn Mathús (Grundarfjörður) – One of the best seafood spots, famous for its plokkfiskur (traditional Icelandic fish stew).
  • 🥩 The Settlement Center (Borgarnes) – A great spot to try Icelandic lamb dishes while learning about Viking history.
  • ☕ Kaffi Emil (Stykkishólmur) – A charming café with homemade cakes and cozy vibes.

🛏️ Where to Stay in West Iceland

Below are the best accommodation options based on different budgets and experiences.

  • 💎 Luxury: Hotel Búðir – Stay in an epic hotel with insane glacier views and one of Iceland’s most romantic settings.
  • 🏕️ Mid-Range: Hótel Húsafell – A boutique-style lodge with hot springs and modern amenities.
  • 🛖 Budget: Grundarfjörður Hostel – Affordable, clean, and located near Kirkjufell.
  • 🚐 Camper-Friendly: Camping at Snorrastaðir Farm – A scenic camping site surrounded by lava fields.

🦄 Unique Experiences in West Iceland

Looking for more ways to make the trip special? Here are some other bucket list worthy experiences in the West of Iceland:

  • 🚁 Helicopter Over Langjökull Glacier – See Iceland from above on an unforgettable scenic flight.
  • 🐋 Whale Watching in Ólafsvík – One of Iceland’s top spots for orcas and humpbacks.
  • 🌌 Northern Lights at Krauma – Soak in hot pools while watching the aurora dance above.

🤩 Best Photo Spots in West Iceland

For travelers who love capturing epic shots, I’ve included my favorite photo spots below:

  • 📍 Kirkjufell & Kirkjufellsfoss – Iceland’s most famous mountain-waterfall combo.
  • 📍 Gerðuberg Cliffs – Perfectly shaped basalt columns towering over the landscape.
  • 📍 Hraunfossar & Barnafoss – Contrasting blue water flowing through lava fields.
  • 📍 Búðakirkja (Black Church of Búðir) – A photogenic black wooden church against wild landscapes.

🎒 Packing List for West Iceland

Before heading to Iceland, it’s important to prepare for the elements! Here’s some must-have gear for visiting Western Iceland:

  • 🥾 Sturdy Waterproof Hiking Boots – Trails can be muddy and rocky.
  • 🧥 Insulated & Waterproof Jacket – Icelandic weather is unpredictable.
  • 👓 Polarized Sunglasses – Glaciers and water reflections can be blinding.
  • 🎒 Daypack & Reusable Water Bottle – Fresh glacier water is everywhere!
  • 📸 Camera & Tripod – For those unreal Icelandic landscapes.

Western Iceland: An Enchanting Destination

As a traveler who strives to discover interesting and enchanting destinations that are off the beaten path, I was delighted by West Iceland’s character and charm. West Iceland is the ideal day-trip from Reykjavik, offering an authentic Icelandic experience within convenient range of the capital. For those wishing to visit this region in the future, I recommend checking out their tourism website, Visit West Iceland, which highlights many of its awesome places and excursions.

From tranquil nature to authentic experiences, West Iceland is a wonder that I will definitely visit again and again.

Jon is a travel writer and photographer from Boston, Massachusetts. He is the owner of the @Global.Viewpoint Instagram page, which seeks to inspire others to travel and see the world with a global viewpoint.

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1 comment

Latesha March 9, 2019 - 10:47

Do you have any kind of tips for creating articles? That’s where I always struggle and I simply end up staring empty screen for very long time.

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