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 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.

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.

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.

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 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, 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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.