Visit West Iceland

Waterfalls of West Iceland - Hraunfossar

Mon, 26 Oct 2026 08:30:00 +0000

Few places in Iceland are as unique as Hraunfossar. Located in the upper region of Borgarfjörður, these remarkable waterfalls emerge from beneath an ancient lava field and flow into the glacial river Hvítá. Unlike most waterfalls in Iceland, Hraunfossar does not plunge from a towering cliff. Instead, countless springs seep through the porous lava and cascade over a series of ledges, creating one of the country's most distinctive natural wonders. Hraunfossar and the nearby Barnafoss are among the most visited natural attractions in West Iceland and have been protected as a natural monument since 1987.

The Hlíðartún Houses in Borgarnes – A Story of Icelandic Society Preserved in Buildings

Fri, 23 Oct 2026 08:30:00 +0000

Standing along Borgarbraut in Borgarnes, the Hlíðartún Houses are a tangible reminder of an important period in Iceland’s settlement and social history. The buildings are significant examples of farming within an urban community during the first half of the 20th century. They tell the story of a time when the boundaries between rural and urban life were far less distinct than they are today.

Winter is coming

Fri, 16 Oct 2026 08:30:00 +0000

Winter is coming to West Iceland, bringing snow-covered mountains, dramatic skies, short daylight hours and the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights. It is a beautiful time to explore the region, but winter travel requires a little more preparation. Weather and road conditions can change quickly, so flexibility and good planning are essential.

Books, Libraries & Book Cafés in West Iceland

Fri, 09 Oct 2026 08:30:00 +0000

Autumn and winter are perfect seasons for slowing down and discovering the literary side of West Iceland. As the days grow shorter and the weather turns colder, libraries, bookshops, cafés and cultural spaces become inviting places to browse, read, enjoy a coffee and discover Icelandic stories. There is something particularly appealing about travelling through Iceland with a book in mind. Instead of rushing from one attraction to the next, you can take your time, step inside somewhere warm and let the landscape outside become part of the experience.

Why Every Visitor Falls in Love with the Icelandic Lopapeysa

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 08:30:00 +0000

Few garments are as closely tied to the Icelandic identity as the lopapeysa, the traditional Icelandic wool sweater. More than just a piece of clothing, it is a symbol of Icelandic nature, craftsmanship, and the resilience that has shaped life in this country for generations. While it is difficult to pinpoint a single creator or exact origin, the lopapeysa has evolved alongside the nation itself and has become one of Iceland's most recognizable cultural icons.

See the Northern Lights in West Iceland

Fri, 02 Oct 2026 12:01:00 +0000

West Iceland is one of the most rewarding regions for Northern Lights hunting. Its combination of dark skies, open landscapes, mountains, coastlines and low light pollution creates excellent conditions for experiencing the aurora. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is particularly well suited, with several dramatic landscapes that make beautiful foregrounds for the lights.

Snorri Sturluson Day

Thu, 24 Sep 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Every year, Snorri Sturluson Day is commemorated around the anniversary of his death on September 23, honoring one of the most influential figures in Icelandic history. Snorri was a poet, historian, chieftain, and statesman whose works have played an invaluable role in preserving the history, culture, and mythology of the Nordic world. Few individuals have had such a lasting impact on the safeguarding of the Norse literary heritage.

Strong winds expected in West Iceland – strongest on northern Snæfellsnes

Mon, 21 Sep 2026 08:43:00 +0000

Strong winds and rain are expected across much of Iceland today, with conditions becoming particularly windy in West Iceland as the day progresses. The strongest winds are expected on northern Snæfellsnes.

Icelandic Nature Day – Celebrating the Nature of West Iceland

Wed, 16 Sep 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Icelandic Nature Day, celebrated every year on September 16, is a day dedicated to Iceland’s unique natural environment and the importance of protecting and preserving it. The date marks the birthday of Ómar Ragnarsson, a well-known Icelandic journalist, broadcaster and passionate advocate for nature conservation. For decades, he has played an important role in raising awareness of Iceland’s remarkable landscapes and the need to safeguard them for future generations.

Museums and Exhibitions in West Iceland – A Journey Through History and Culture

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 08:30:00 +0000

When autumn arrives and winter begins to settle over West Iceland, museums and exhibitions become especially appealing. Shorter days, changing weather and cooler temperatures create the perfect excuse to step indoors and discover the stories, traditions and people behind the landscapes. But museums in West Iceland are not simply places to escape the rain. They offer a fascinating journey through Iceland’s settlement history, Viking heritage, farming traditions, maritime culture, wartime history, local communities and contemporary art. From Borgarnes and Reykholt to Akranes, Hvanneyri, Snæfellsnes and beyond, there is much to discover.

An Autumn Tradition That Brings People and Sheep Together

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 08:00:00 +0000

From the earliest days of Icelandic farming, sheep round-ups or leitir and sorting days or réttir have been an important part of rural life and agricultural tradition.

I’m Going Berry Picking

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 11:02:00 +0000

Autumn has a special charm in Iceland. As summer draws to an end and the berries reach full ripeness, it is the perfect time to head outdoors and go berry picking. For many people, berry picking is not only a way to gather delicious food, but also a wonderful opportunity to spend time outdoors, enjoy good company and experience Iceland’s beautiful nature.

Nicole Kidman makes surprise appearance in Vatnshellir Cave

Fri, 28 Aug 2026 14:28:00 +0000

Hollywood star Nicole Kidman made a surprise visit to Vatnshellir Cave on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula earlier this August, adding a touch of Hollywood glamour to one of West Iceland’s most remarkable natural attractions. The Australian American actress was travelling through Iceland aboard Evrima, the luxury superyacht operated by The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. Her Icelandic itinerary included stops in the north, including Akureyri, as well as an exploration of the spectacular Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

Autumn in West Iceland

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 11:56:00 +0000

Autumn is one of the most beautiful and rewarding times to visit West Iceland. As summer gives way to cooler days, the landscape transforms into a vibrant display of golden, red and amber colors. Fewer visitors, peaceful surroundings and a wide range of activities make autumn the perfect season to experience nature, culture and adventure at your own pace.

Bakeries in West Iceland – Fresh Bread, Sweet Treats and Local Flavours

Thu, 13 Aug 2026 13:45:00 +0000

Whether you're starting your day with a freshly baked pastry or taking a well-earned break during a road trip, West Iceland is home to a variety of welcoming bakeries where you can enjoy artisan bread, delicious cakes, light lunches, and excellent coffee. From traditional Icelandic bakeries to cosy cafés, there's always a perfect place to pause and savour the moment.

Lets talk about…..Grundarfjörður

Mon, 10 Aug 2026 10:30:00 +0000

For many visitors, the journey to Grundarfjörður begins with a single photograph. Rising dramatically from the landscape, Mt. Kirkjufell has become one of Iceland's most iconic landmarks and one of the most photographed mountains in the world. But while Kirkjufell may be the reason many travellers first arrive, it's the charm of the town and the surrounding nature that often persuade them to stay.

Lets talk about…..Stykkishólmur

Fri, 07 Aug 2026 12:30:00 +0000

Located on the northern coast of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Stykkishólmur is one of Iceland's most picturesque fishing towns. Overlooking the countless islands of Breiðafjörður Bay, the town combines colourful heritage, vibrant culture and breathtaking coastal scenery, making it one of West Iceland's must-visit destinations.

Core messages about the Solar Eclipse

Thu, 06 Aug 2026 13:35:00 +0000

The solar eclipse on Wednesday, 12 August 2026, is a unique event. The solar eclipse lasts for about two hours, begins with a partial eclipse in the afternoon and reaches total solar eclipse between 17:44 and 17:47, depending on the region.

Lets talk about……Hvanneyri

Sun, 02 Aug 2026 12:30:00 +0000

Nestled on the shores of Borgarfjörður, just a short drive from Borgarnes, Hvanneyri is one of Iceland's most important agricultural communities. Surrounded by fertile farmland, rivers and mountain views, the village has been at the centre of Icelandic farming, education and rural innovation for well over a century.

Lets talk about…..Búðardalur

Fri, 31 Jul 2026 12:30:00 +0000

Nestled at the innermost part of Hvammsfjörður in the Dalir region, Búðardalur is a charming village where history, nature and Icelandic heritage come together. As the largest settlement in Dalir, it serves as a gateway between West Iceland and the Westfjords, making it an ideal stop for travellers exploring the region.