10 Amazing Places You Need To See In West Iceland
Last Updated: Jun 26, 2023
Reading Time: 6 minutes
By: Shaun
West Iceland is home to an amazing number of regions, with each area known for its own charm. From the hustle and bustle of the capital Reykjavík, to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, to the tranquilly of the Western Fjords, and the wonders of the Golden Circle, this beautiful region has something for everyone.
We compliment to the locations discussed in other posts we linked above with this article that list a few more notable destinations in the area.
What are the best places to visit in West Iceland?
1. Blue Lagoon Geo-Thermal Spa
Blue Lagoon Geo-Thermal Spa | Image by Giuseppe Milo on Flickr
A trip to Iceland is never complete unless you visit a geothermal spa. The water in a geothermal spa is naturally heated to temperatures ranging from mild to very hot, and it is frequently rich in minerals like sulphur and silica.
Iceland’s most visited geothermal spa is the Blue Lagoon outside of Reykjavík. This man-made lagoon is fed by the waters of the nearby geothermal power plant and is known for its unique blue colour and therapeutic properties.
Visitors to the Blue Lagoon can indulge in a variety of activities like soaking in the lagoon, getting a rejuvenating silica mud mask, and enjoying a massage or some other treatment at the onsite spa. There is also a swim-up bar, where visitors can enjoy a drink while relaxing in the lagoon.
2. Thingvellir National Park
Gullfoss | Image by Ruth Hartnup on Flickr
Thingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and covers an area of about 155 square kilometres (60 square miles). The park is home to a range of geological and historical attractions.
Almannagjá
Almannagjá Rift Valley, which is a deep fissure in the earth that was formed by the movement of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
Silfra
Silfra is a renowned diving and snorkelling destination, and it is regarded as one of the top diving locations in the world due to its unusual geology and crystal-clear waters.
Öxarárfoss
A 13 metres (44 feet) high water that averages a width of around 6 metres (20 feet).
3. Reykholt
Reykholt | Image by Bernd Hildebrandt on Pixabay
The Borgarfjordur region is in a picturesque valley, surrounded by hills and forests. Within Borgarfjordur, one can visit the small village of Reykholt, which is best known for its cultural attractions like the Reykholt Cultural Centre. The centre is home to a museum, library and hot springs and offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the region.
The Snorrastofa Cultural Centre, which is dedicated to the life and work of mediaeval Icelandic writer and poet Snorri Sturluson, is another famous site in Reykholt. The centre includes a museum, a library, and also a research facility. This site is a must-see for anybody interested in Icelandic literature and history.
4. Deildartunguhver
Deildartunguhver | Image provided of Wikimedia Commons
When you are close to Reykholt and are interested in geothermal activity, a visit to Deildartunguhver is a must, as it is the largest hot spring in Iceland.
Deildartunguhver is known for its high flow rate, with an average flow of 180 litres (40 gallons) per second and a maximum flow of up to 300 litres (66 gallons) per second.
5. Borgarnes
Eiriksstadir Viking Village | Image by Wolfgang Sauber on Wikimedia Commons
Borgarnes is another small town in the Borgarfjordur region and was founded in the nineteenth century. Since then, it has grown into a thriving community of over 1,700 inhabitants.
The Settlement Centre, which is dedicated to the history of the town and the surrounding region, is one of Borgarnes’ most popular attractions. The centre includes a number of interactive displays as well as a Viking longhouse model.
Another popular attraction is the Eiriksstadir Viking Village, a reproduction of a Viking-era farmstead. The village has a number of buildings that have been carefully constructed to faithfully reproduce the conditions under which people lived in that area.
6. Glymur Waterfall
Glymur Waterfall | Image by Matito on Flickr
Glymur is the highest waterfall in the country, with a height of 198 metres (650 feet). The crystal-clear water cascades down a steep cliff face into a deep ravine. The falls are located near the site of an old hydroelectric power plant, which was built in the 1950s and was the first of its kind in Iceland.
If you have the time, you can hike around the area, which would take you about 2 hours to complete, so make sure you pack good footwear before leaving for the day if you decide to make the trek.
7. Haafell Goat Farm
Icelandic Goat | Image by Ómar Runólfsson on Wikimedia Commons
In the Middle Ages, the Vikings who settled in Iceland brought this breed of goat with them. Unfortunately, this breed was on the verge of extinction during the nineteenth century and has only been saved thanks to the efforts of many Icelanders. While today most are kept as pets, some places, like Haafell Farm, make a wide range of products from these animals in a very sustainable way.
Haafell Farm houses various other animals, and if you are travelling with kids, this stop is highly recommended.
8. Viðey Island
Viðey Peace Tower | Image by Gylfi Gylfason on Pexels
Viðey Island is a small island off the coast of Reykjavík. The island is well-known for its natural beauty, tranquil environment, and fascinating history.
The island has been inhabited for over a thousand years and originally housed a monastery and a church. Over the centuries, this island became a popular stop for sailors and fishermen.
One of the unique attractions on Viðey Island is the Yoko Ono Peace Tower. This sculpture was built in 1986 by the artist Yoko Ono and consists of a tall, slender tower of mirrors that mimic the nearby landscape. Yoko Ono envisaged this tower as a symbol of peace and unity.
9. Akranes
Akranes | Image by Helgarun on Wikimedia Commons
About an hour’s drive north from Reykjavík one can visit Akranes. One of the main attractions in Akranes is the Lighthouse, which is located on the edge of town and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area and the ocean.
Akranes is also home to a number of cultural and historical attractions. These include the Akranes Folk Museum, which is housed in an old fishery and offers a glimpse into the town’s history and culture, and the Akranes Art Museum, which features works by many Icelandic artists.
10. Langjokull Glacier
Langjokull Glacier | Image by Daniel ............ on Flickr
The Langjökull Glacier on Iceland’s west coast should be at the top of your list if you’re looking for an exhilarating outdoor excursion. This massive ice cap encompasses approximately 950 square kilometres (366 square miles) and offers a wide range of fascinating activities.
Langjökull Glacier translates to “long glacier” in Icelandic and refers to the glacier’s impressive 50-kilometer (31-mile) length. This huge area is renowned for a number of activities, including glacier hiking, ice climbing and snowmobiling. One activity you should not miss is a visit to the world’s largest man-made ice cave, which can be visited on a guided trip.
Conclusion
West Iceland is a stunningly beautiful region that offers a wealth of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you’re hiking on a glacier, soaking in a hot spring, or just petting goats, you’re sure to be enchanted by this magical part of Iceland.
With proper planning and preparation, your trip to this area will be sure to be an unforgettable adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to visit West Iceland?
Summer is the best time to visit Iceland, as the weather is mild and many attractions are accessible. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, whale watching, and exploring the countryside.
What are some cultural attractions to visit in West Iceland?
West Iceland has many cultural attractions that are worth visiting like Borgarnes, Reykholt and Stykkishólmur.
What are some tips for driving in West Iceland?
Driving in West Iceland can be a challenging but rewarding experience, offering stunning views of the countryside and access to many remote areas. Always check the road conditions and weather forecast before setting out, as weather conditions can change rapidly.
