Visit Westfjords

Easter in Ísafjörður

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 10:57:00 +0000

March finally delivered a proper snowfall after a winter with surprisingly little of it—much to the delight of skiers. With Easter just around the corner, Ísafjörður and the surrounding towns are gearing up for one of the most vibrant weekends of the year. The region fills with visitors for two main reasons: the annual Ski Week and the beloved music festival Aldrei fór ég suður, taking place this year on Friday, March 3rd, and Saturday, March 4th

Coming to the Westfjords in 2026?

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 14:17:00 +0000

Maybe you've already have booked your flight for summer or perhaps you're still deciding when to go and what to do. Let us give you some summer inspiration via the Westfjords Way. Travelling the Westfjords Way is not about racing from one tourist spot to another, trying to cram in as much as possible. Nope, it’s all about taking your time, soaking up the local vibes, and truly experiencing the area in all its glory. One thing we often hear from travelers who’ve been to the Westfjords, is that they wished they had stayed longer.

Today we're celebrating Bóndadagur (Husband's Day)

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Bóndadagur or Husband's Day, is an annual Icelandic holiday that celebrates the men of Iceland. This day falls on the first day of the old month of Þorri, which typically falls in mid-January.

Chasing the Northern Lights in the Westfjords

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 11:54:00 +0000

If you’re dreaming of seeing the northern lights in Iceland, the Westfjords are one of the most rewarding and peaceful places to visit. The colorful glow of the aurora borealis over snow-covered mountains and quiet fjords creates a calm and unforgettable experience. Below are the main reasons why the Westfjords are an ideal spot for northern lights viewing, along with practical tips to plan your trip.

Road up to Bolafjall is closed for Winter season.

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 08:12:00 +0000

Bolafjall Road Closed for the Winter Season The road leading up to Bolafjall is now closed for the winter season. However, adventurous visitors can still hike up to the spectacular viewing platform, which offers some of the most breathtaking views in the Westfjords. Please note that conditions can be challenging in winter, so dress accordingly, check the weather forecast, and be mindful of changing conditions before setting out.

What’s On in the Westfjords: Late June & July 2025

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 15:37:00 +0000

Summer in the Westfjords is all about long days, local festivals, and plenty of reasons to spend time outdoors. From bike races and music concerts to art shows and village celebrations, there’s something happening almost every week. If you’ll be visiting between June 26 and July 31, 2025, here are some great events to check out.

Seal Spotting in the Westfjords: Enjoy the View, Respect the Crew

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Seals are a common sight along the shores of the Westfjords, often spotted swimming near the coast or resting on rocks. One easy and popular place to see them is Hvítanes in Ísafjarðardjúp, where you can safely park and enjoy the view. Watching seals in the wild is a special experience—but it comes with a responsibility. These curious animals sometimes swim closer out of interest. If that happens, stay calm and still. This is their space, and we’re just guests. Too much disturbance can drive them away, so to help keep these spots peaceful for both people and seals, it’s important to follow a few simple guidelines.

The Factory Art Exhibition in Djúpavík 2025

Sun, 01 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Welcome to the art exhibition The Factory: Sky Dancers, which runs throughout the summer from 24 May to 12 September 2025, in the old herring factory in Djúpavík. Dating back to 1917, Djúpavík is steeped in history, as it once thrived as a herring factory hub. Although the factory ceased operations in 1954, its legacy lives on through the largest concrete building in Iceland, now transformed into an exhibition space. Read on for more info about the exhibition and how to get there.

Fisherman's Day (Sjómannadagurinn) 2025

Fri, 30 May 2025 11:52:00 +0000

Every year, on the first Sunday of June, Iceland celebrates Sjómannadagurinn – Fisherman's day. If Pentecost happens to fall on that same Sunday, the celebration is moved to the following week. This day is dedicated to all those who work at sea and has become an important part of the country's cultural calendar. The first official Sjómannadagur was held on June 6, 1938, in both Reykjavík and Ísafjörður. But even earlier, it was common practice to hold special church services for seamen before they headed out for the fishing season, usually on the 3rd or 4th Sunday after Epiphany. Read on for more info about this years celebrations.

Music Festival in June - Við Djúpið

Tue, 20 May 2025 14:32:00 +0000

Við Djúpið is an annual music festival held in Ísafjörður, a town in Iceland's Westfjords region. Established in 2003, the festival focuses on classical and contemporary music, providing a platform for both renowned and emerging artists to collaborate and perform in a unique and inspiring setting. This year, the festival takes place from June 17–21.

Today is The First Day of Summer

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Today is Sumardagurinn fyrsti or in English the First Day of Summer. It’s a public holiday in Iceland, celebrated every year on the first Thursday after April 18. This day marks the beginning of the month of Harpa, the first of six summer months in the old Icelandic calendar.

Látrabjarg: Guidelines for the Nature Reserve and How to get there

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Látrabjarg, located at the westernmost point of Iceland in the stunning Westfjords, is not just a cliff — it's one of Europe's largest bird cliffs and an awe-inspiring natural wonder. Stretching for 14 kilometers and towering up to 441 meters high, this massive cliff is home to millions of seabirds, including puffins, razorbills, and guillemots. For bird lovers and adventurers alike, it’s an unforgettable destination. However this unique environment is fragile, and visitors need to follow some important rules to help preserve its natural beauty and wildlife. If you’re planning a trip to Látrabjarg, here’s what you need to know:

Eider Ducks and the Westfjords: A Unique Connection

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 12:00:00 +0000

The Westfjords of Iceland are not just known for their landscapes and beauty but also for their significance in eider duck conservation and eiderdown production. This region, which holds 1/3 of Iceland’s coastline, plays an essential role in providing nesting sites for eider ducks. The long-standing tradition of harvesting eiderdown, passed down through generations, is one of the many ways locals harmonize with nature while sustaining their livelihood.

Exploring Strandir Area

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The Strandir area, with its small towns, rich history, and impressive landscape, offers the perfect opportunity to experience something off the beaten path. Located in the Westfjords of Iceland, this region is a hidden gem for those seeking tranquility, nature, and a unique cultural history. If you're looking for an adventure that takes you far from the usual tourist trails, Strandir is calling your name! For a deep dive into this captivating area, keep reading:

Exploring the Southern Westfjords

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The Southern Westfjords of Iceland offer a stunning mix of natural beauty, rich wildlife, and fascinating history. This remote region is famous for its birdlife, dramatic landscapes, and unique local culture. From majestic cliffs and geothermal pools to charming villages and historic sites, the Southern Westfjords offer travelers an unforgettable experience.

Traveling in Winter to the Westfjords

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Winter in the Westfjords offers a completely different experience compared to the busier summer season. While the cold months bring unique challenges, they also reveal a side of Iceland that’s raw, peaceful, and incredibly beautiful. Whether you fly in, take a ferry, or brave the icy roads, this remote region rewards the adventurous with snow-covered landscapes, quiet solitude, and a chance to truly reconnect with nature. From chasing the Northern Lights to soaking in local hot tubs, winter in the Westfjords is a journey into tranquility and wonder. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your visit.

Celebrating New Year’s Eve in the Westfjords of Iceland: A Unique Experience

Tue, 31 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The Westfjords of Iceland offer a one-of-a-kind experience for those seeking an unforgettable way to celebrate New Year’s Eve. With its stunning landscapes, unique traditions, and cozy, intimate atmosphere, the region provides the perfect backdrop for ringing in the new year. From festive dinners to lively bonfires and spectacular fireworks displays, the Westfjords’ celebrations offer a blend of Icelandic culture and breathtaking natural beauty that you won’t find anywhere else. Here’s why you should plan your visit to this magical corner of Iceland for an unforgettable New Year’s celebration.

Christmas is approaching!

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

December is finally here! All around the Westfjords you can see how the Christmas spirit has taken over. Even though the darkness is all around us during this month (approx. only 3 hours of daylight), the region challenges it with an abundance of Christmas lights everywhere. The houses are decorated with colorful lights on the outside and inside as well. In Iceland, the festive season of Christmas, also known as Yuletide, takes centre stage as one of the most significant holiday of the year.

What's happening in December

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 12:36:00 +0000

December in the Westfjords is filled with festive charm, offering a variety of events to enjoy the holiday season. Whether you're a local or just visiting, there's something special for everyone to experience.

Harðfiskur: A taste of Icelandic Tradition

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

When you think of Icelandic food, a few iconic dishes come to mind—like the infamous hákarl (fermented shark) and creamy skyr. But there's another Icelandic classic that locals love just as much: harðfiskur, or dried fish. When driving around the Westfjords you might spot fish racks and sheds. That is where the Harðfiskur is being made. This simple, protein-packed snack has been part of Icelandic culture for centuries, and it’s more than just a quick bite; it’s a delicious piece of Iceland’s history. Let’s dive into the story of harðfiskur—how it’s made, why Icelanders can’t get enough of it, and the best ways to enjoy it!