West Iceland is often overshadowed by the South Coast or Golden Circle — but it shouldn’t be. It’s one of the most diverse regions in the country, where you’ll find geothermal spas, epic volcanoes, caves, waterfalls, glaciers, and charming coastal towns all within a few hours of Reykjavík.
Whether you have a day or a week, West Iceland is worth the detour. This guide highlights the top things to do, from world-famous hot springs to hidden hiking trails and mystical lava landscapes.
Where Is West Iceland and Why Visit?
West Iceland stretches northwest from Reykjavik toward Borgarnes, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and inland toward Húsafelland Langjökull Glacier.
Why it’s special:
- Home to Snæfellsjökull, the volcano from Journey to the Center of the Earth
- Accessible glaciers & lava caves
- Historic Viking and Saga sites
- Hot springs and geothermal energy
You’ll find everything Iceland is famous for — just fewer crowds.
Top Things To Do in West Iceland
❄️ 1. Visit Snæfellsjökull National Park
Located on the tip of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, this park centers around Snæfellsjökull, a glacier-capped volcano.
Things to do:
- Hike the glacier’s lower slopes (with a guide)
- Explore lava fields like Saxhóll crater
- Visit the black sand beach at Djúpalónssandur
- Look out for seals at Ytri Tunga beach
🪨 2. Explore Vatnshellir Lava Cave
Go underground into a tunnel created by flowing lava 8,000 years ago.
- 200-meter walk with a guide
- See stalactites, lava formations, and twisted tubes
- Tours start near Snæfellsjökull
💦 3. Bathe in Krauma Geothermal Baths
Krauma is a modern hot spring spa fed by Europe’s most powerful hot spring, Deildartunguhver.
- Five relaxing geothermal tubs
- Cold plunge, sauna, and relaxation room
- Located near Reykholt, ideal stop on the way to Húsafell
⛰️ 4. Hike Around Hraunfossar & Barnafoss Waterfalls
These two neighboring waterfalls offer contrasting beauty.
- Hraunfossar: crystal-clear streams flowing out of a lava field
- Barnafoss: turbulent, narrow cascade with tragic folklore
Well-marked paths and viewing decks make this an easy, scenic stop.
🧊 5. Go Inside the Langjökull Glacier (Ice Tunnel)
One of the most unique things to do in Iceland is to enter an artificial tunnel carved inside Langjökull Glacier.
- Guided tour via monster truck
- Explore icy blue halls and crevasses
- Available year-round
💡 Starts from Húsafell or Kaldidalur Highland route
🔥 6. See Deildartunguhver – Europe’s Most Powerful Hot Spring
This geothermal spring pumps out 180 liters of boiling water per second.
- Water is used to heat nearby towns
- You can walk safely alongside it on a viewing path
- Stop by the Krauma spa next door for a soak
📜 7. Visit Reykholt – Saga History Hub
Once home to medieval historian Snorri Sturluson, this historic site offers:
- Snorri’s Pool – one of the oldest known hot tubs
- A small museum on Icelandic sagas
- Church, gardens, and cultural center
Great stop for those interested in Viking lore and literature.
🏘️ 8. Discover Borgarnes – Coastal Town with a View
Just 75 minutes from Reykjavik, Borgarnes is a perfect first stop in West Iceland.
Things to see and do:
- The Settlement Center – interactive museum about Icelandic origins
- Coastal walking paths and sea cliffs
- Good restaurants and shops with mountain views
🧭 9. Drive the Snæfellsnes Peninsula Scenic Route
Known as “Iceland in Miniature,” this peninsula offers:
- Beaches (black & golden sand)
- Volcanic craters and lava fields
- Mountain Kirkjufell – the most photographed peak in Iceland
- Fishing villages like Arnarstapi, Hellnar, and Stykkishólmur
Easily done in one long day or split into 2–3 days with overnight stops.
🦊 10. Look for Arctic Foxes in the Wild
The Westfjords and parts of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula are known habitats for Iceland’s only native land mammal.
- Best chance is at dawn or dusk
- Bring binoculars or join a wildlife tour
- Spot along cliffs, valleys, or remote lava fields
Seasonal Highlights – West Iceland By Time of Year
☀️ Summer (May–September)
- Full access to mountain roads and trails
- Puffin and seal watching
- Perfect time to tour Snæfellsnes
- Midnight sun = endless photography opportunities
❄️ Winter (October–April)
- Northern Lights in remote areas (Borgarfjörður & Húsafell)
- Glacier and lava cave tours still operate
- Icy road conditions — 4x4 vehicle recommended
- Krauma Baths are magical in the snow
Day Trip Ideas from Reykjavik to West Iceland
🚗 Option 1: Borgarnes & Krauma Day
- Reykjavik → Borgarnes → Reykholt → Deildartunguhver → Krauma → Back
🚗 Option 2: Snæfellsnes Peninsula Full Day
- Reykjavik → Kirkjufell → Arnarstapi → Snæfellsjökull → Djúpalónssandur → Reykjavik
Each route takes 9–12 hours, so early starts are recommended.
Local Villages Worth Visiting
🐚 Stykkishólmur
- Ferry port to the Westfjords
- Beautiful harbor and colorful houses
- Volcano Museum and Library of Water
🌊 Arnarstapi
- Coastal cliffs and stone arches
- Friendly seagulls and rock formations
- Base for hikes around Snæfellsjökull
🧱 Hellnar
- Smallest village in the region
- Cozy cafés with sea views
- Hiking path to Arnarstapi (2.5 km one way)
Conclusion: Make the Most of Your West Iceland Adventure
West Iceland offers an unforgettable mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and off-the-beaten-path experiences. Whether you’re soaking in a hidden hot spring, standing in awe of ancient volcanoes, or strolling through peaceful coastal villages, this region is perfect for curious travelers and road trippers alike.
To help you plan the perfect journey beyond West Iceland, check out our other regional and driving guides:
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How Long to Drive Around Iceland? Complete Ring Road Timing, Tips & Itineraries
-
Things To Do in South Iceland – Iceland’s Most Scenic Region
Get behind the wheel, take your time, and let West Iceland—and beyond—surprise you at every turn.
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