10 Amazing Things To Do in West Iceland

Exploring the wild landscapes of West Iceland is a must-do for every adventurous traveler. From majestic waterfalls and geothermal pools to lava fields and glaciers, this region offers plenty of unique experiences. Here are the 10 best things to do in West Iceland:

1. Visit Snæfellsjökull National Park

Snæfellsjökull National Park is one of Iceland’s most beautiful and iconic national parks, and it’s situated on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in West Iceland. The park is home to the Snæfellsjökull glacier, a majestic volcano that’s considered to be one of the seven energy centers of the earth. It’s also the setting of Jules Verne’s classic science fiction novel “Journey to the Center of the Earth.”

2. Explore the Vatnshellir Cave

The Vatnshellir Cave is an 8,000-year-old lava tube that’s located near the Snæfellsjökull glacier. The cave is one of the most fascinating natural wonders of West Iceland, and it’s a great place to explore if you’re interested in geology or just want to experience something truly unique.

3. Visit the Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge

The Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge is a beautiful canyon that’s located on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. It’s named after Rauðfeldur, a legendary outlaw who’s said to have lived in the area during the Viking Age. The gorge is a great place to hike and explore, and it’s also home to a beautiful waterfall.

4. Hike on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is a beautiful place to hike, with plenty of trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Some of the most popular hiking trails include the path from Arnarstapi to Hellnar, the trail to the top of the Saxhóll crater, and the hike to the summit of Kirkjufell Mountain.

5. Relax in the hot springs of Deildartunguhver

Deildartunguhver is the largest hot spring in Europe, and it’s located in West Iceland. The water in the hot spring is incredibly hot, reaching temperatures of up to 212°F (100°C). There are several smaller hot springs in the area that are perfect for a relaxing soak.

6. Visit the Hraunfossar Waterfalls

The Hraunfossar Waterfalls are a series of waterfalls that flow out of a lava field. The waterfalls are a beautiful sight, and they’re located just a short drive from Reykjavik. The waterfalls are also surrounded by some of the most beautiful landscapes in Iceland.

7. Explore the Langjökull Glacier

The Langjökull Glacier is the second-largest glacier in Iceland, and it’s located in the highlands of West Iceland. The glacier is a popular destination for tourists, with several tour operators offering guided tours of the area. You can explore the glacier on foot or by snowmobile, and there are also ice tunnels and caves to explore.

8. Visit the Reykholt Cultural Center

Reykholt is a small village in West Iceland that’s known for its cultural heritage. The village was the home of the famous medieval scholar Snorri Sturluson, and there are several historical sites in the area that are worth exploring. The Reykholt Cultural Center is a great place to learn more about the history of the area.

9. Go whale watching in Húsavík

Húsavík is a charming town that’s located on the northeast coast of Iceland, and it’s considered to be one of the best places in the world for whale watching. The waters around Húsavík are home to several species of whales, including humpback whales, blue whales, and minke whales. There are several tour operators in the area that offer whale-watching tours.

10. Visit the Westfjords

The Westfjords are a remote and rugged region of Iceland that’s located in the northwest corner of the country. The area is known for its dramatic landscapes, including steep cliffs, deep fjords, and towering mountains. Some of the highlights of the Westfjords include the Dynjandi waterfall, the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, and the fishing village of Ísafjörður.

Conclusion

In conclusion, West Iceland offers plenty of unique experiences and breathtaking landscapes that are perfect for adventurous travelers. Whether you’re interested in exploring lava fields and glaciers or relaxing in hot springs and soaking up the local culture, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region of Iceland.