As spring arrives, West Iceland’s wetlands, coastlines, and cliffs come alive with birdsong and movement. From puffins nesting on sea cliffs to Arctic terns soaring above black sand beaches, the region offers unforgettable birdwatching experiences. Rich wetlands, coastal ecosystems, and diverse habitats make West Iceland one of the country’s most rewarding destinations for nature and bird enthusiasts alike.

Every year, on the first Sunday of June, Iceland celebrates Sjómannadagurinn, also known as the Day of the Fisherman. If Pentecost falls on the same weekend, the festivities are postponed until the following Sunday.

Inspired by James Thurber’s beloved short story, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty follows Walter Mitty (Ben Stiller), a quiet employee at Life Magazine, as he leaves behind his ordinary routine and sets off on an unforgettable journey across the globe in search of a missing photograph by legendary photojournalist Sean O’Connell (Sean Penn). While Walter’s adventure takes him to places portrayed as Greenland and the Himalayas, Iceland becomes one of the film’s true highlights. Its dramatic scenery and breathtaking landscapes play a major role throughout the movie, making it one of the first major Hollywood productions to showcase Iceland so prominently. Filming took place in seven different locations across the country, from Seyðisfjörður in the East Fjords to Stykkishólmur on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in West Iceland.

Exploring West Iceland is about more than just visiting the sights—it’s about slowing down and enjoying the journey along the way. This is a region best experienced at a relaxed pace, taking in each moment as it comes. And what better way to pause between adventures than with a great cup of coffee?

Icelandic sheep have a long and storied history, dating back more than a thousand years. Introduced by Norse settlers, they adapted to Iceland’s tough environment and became essential to the survival and independence of local communities. Their distinctive dual-coated wool and resilience have played a key role in shaping the country’s cultural and agricultural traditions. From mid-April through early June, lambing season brings new life to the countryside as flocks welcome their young. It’s a special time of year that highlights the close connection between farmers, animals, and the land—offering visitors a chance to experience this unique and vibrant part of Icelandic rural life.

West Iceland is full of stunning, photogenic locations—but beyond the iconic Kirkjufell, there are plenty of lesser-known spots that are just as breathtaking, yet far less crowded. Here are some hidden gems to elevate your Instagram feed:

Late april in Iceland may still feel cold and chilly, but Icelanders remain ever optimistic about the summer ahead.

West Iceland offers a wide variety of walking routes for all skill levels, from easy strolls to demanding hikes. Whether you prefer flat terrain, mountain climbs, or something in between, there’s a trail to suit every adventurer.

Swimming pool culture is part of the daily life of the Icelandic nation, where people meet in their swimsuits on an equal footing. Swimming pool culture therefore supports physical, mental, and social health.

The Silver Circle is a new, defined travel route in West Iceland, located in the Borgarfjörður region. The route brings together rich cultural heritage, geothermal power, sustainable energy use, and diverse nature experiences within a relatively small area. The project aims to develop the Silver Circle as a strong, sustainable, and accessible destination for travellers in Iceland all year round.

The Visit West Iceland Smart Interactive Sales and Marketing System, launched on October 17, 2024, offers an innovative way to explore and promote the West of Iceland. With local hosts guiding users through top attractions, accommodations, and experiences, this interactive tool provides an engaging, easy-to-navigate resource for B2B sales and tourism promotion. Featuring contributions from 23 companies, the DMO, and a regional municipality, the platform continuously updates with the latest content, allowing tourism partners to effortlessly share up-to-date information. This system not only highlights individual services but also showcases the West’s diverse nature and activities, making it ideal for a 3-4 night stay with unique day trips across the region.

A 4-kilometer-long (2.5 miles) fissure eruption started on the Reykjanes Peninsula on Monday, December 18, at 10:17 PM. This marks the fourth eruption on the Reykjanes Peninsula in three years.