West Iceland is a land of contrast and character. It’s where volcanoes meet glaciers, where Viking sagas were written, and where hot springs steam beside rugged coastlines. While it may not be as crowded as the Golden Circle or South Coast, the west offers some of Iceland’s most iconic landmarks and peaceful hidden gems.
This guide will walk you through the top things to see in West Iceland, from the dramatic Snæfellsnes Peninsula to lava-fueled waterfalls and medieval history.
Overview – Where Is West Iceland?
West Iceland covers the region from the town of Borgarnes up through the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, with inland routes leading to Húsafell, Langjökull Glacier, and the geothermal heartland around Deildartunguhver.
Key Features:
- Easy access from Reykjavík (1–2 hours)
- One of Iceland’s most geologically diverse regions
- Mix of coastal cliffs, lava caves, glaciers, and cultural history
- Ideal for a 1–3 day itinerary
Must-See Natural Attractions in West Iceland
🏔️ Kirkjufell – Iceland’s Most Photographed Mountain
Located near Grundarfjörður on the north coast of Snæfellsnes, Kirkjufell (“Church Mountain”) is an unmistakable cone-shaped peak featured in Game of Thrones.
- Best viewed from across Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall
- Ideal for golden hour photography
- Moderate hiking trail for experienced hikers
🌋 Snæfellsjökull Volcano and National Park
This glacier-capped volcano is the centerpiece of Snæfellsnes Peninsula and was the fictional gateway to the Earth's core in Jules Verne's novel.
- See the glacier from afar or hike its base with a guide
- Visit black sand beaches, lava tubes, and sea cliffs
- Don’t miss Djúpalónssandur beach and Saxhóll crater
💦 Hraunfossar & Barnafoss Waterfalls
These two waterfalls near Húsafell are stunning opposites.
- Hraunfossar: dozens of gentle springs flowing from a lava field
- Barnafoss: a dramatic, narrow rush of water through a rocky gorge
- Well-maintained paths and photo platforms
🔥 Deildartunguhver – Europe’s Most Powerful Hot Spring
Located near Reykholt, this geothermal marvel gushes boiling water at 97°C at a rate of 180 liters per second.
- View the steaming vents from a safe path
- Stop for a soak at the nearby Krauma Baths, fed by this spring
🧊 Langjökull Glacier – Into the Ice
The second-largest glacier in Iceland, Langjökull offers one of the world’s only manmade ice tunnels that let you walk inside a glacier.
- Tours depart from Húsafell
- Monster truck transports take you to the glacier
- Available all year
🪨 Vatnshellir Lava Cave
Located near the base of Snæfellsjökull, this lava tube formed 8,000 years ago offers a 200-meter underground journey.
- Guided tours with helmets and flashlights
- Twisting passages, colorful rock formations, and complete darkness
- One of the easiest lava caves to access in Iceland
Coastal & Cultural Gems of West Iceland
🏘️ Arnarstapi & Hellnar – Seaside Cliffs and Arches
These two villages are located along the southern Snæfellsnes coast.
- See Gatklettur, a famous stone arch
- Walk the scenic 2.5 km coastal trail between the villages
- Enjoy local cafés with ocean views
🌈 Stykkishólmur – Colorful Harbor Town
Often the launching point for trips to the Westfjords, Stykkishólmur is a postcard-perfect town.
- Visit the Library of Water, a unique art installation
- Climb Súgandisey Cliff for panoramic harbor views
- Enjoy restaurants and local galleries
📚 Reykholt – Snorri’s Home and Saga History
This quiet inland village was home to Snorri Sturluson, Iceland’s most famous medieval writer.
- Explore Snorri’s Pool, his historic geothermal bath
- Visit the Snorrastofa museum and church
- Learn about Iceland’s literary and political history
🌊 Búðir – A Lonely Black Church and Golden Beach
Located in the Búðahraun lava field, this spot combines:
- A dramatic black wooden church
- Expansive views of Snæfellsjökull
- Golden beaches and dunes ideal for peaceful walks
Suggested 2-Day Itinerary for West Iceland
Day 1:
- Depart Reykjavik
- Stop in Borgarnes (optional lunch & Settlement Center)
- Visit Deildartunguhver & Krauma
- Hraunfossar + Barnafoss
- Overnight in Húsafell or Reykholt
Day 2:
- Drive the Snæfellsnes Peninsula
- See Arnarstapi, Hellnar, Djúpalónssandur, Kirkjufell
- Return to Reykjavik or stay overnight in Stykkishólmur
Tips for Visiting West Iceland
- 🗓️ Best Season: Summer (May–Sept) for full road access. Winter is great for Northern Lights and spa visits.
- 🚗 Driving: Most roads are paved, but Snæfellsnes requires extra caution in winter.
- 🧭 Navigation: Google Maps works well; consider offline maps for rural routes.
- 🛏️ Where to Stay: Borgarnes (budget), Stykkishólmur (charming), Húsafell (nature-focused), Arnarstapi (scenic).
Conclusion: West Iceland Awaits Your Wheels
West Iceland is the perfect region for those looking to explore Iceland’s natural wonders without the crowds. From glacier adventures and lava caves to saga-filled villages and coastal gems, this area offers an unforgettable mix of beauty, history, and serenity. Whether you're planning a weekend detour or a dedicated West Iceland road trip, this itinerary is designed to help you discover the best the region has to offer.
For more travel inspiration, be sure to explore our other guides:
-
Is It Easy to Drive in Iceland? 2025 Guide for Safe, Smart and Scenic Road Trips
-
Things to See in South Iceland – The Most Scenic Natural Wonders
Wherever you go, let the open road lead the way—and let Blue Car Rental make it smooth, safe, and scenic.
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