West Iceland

The western region north of Reykjavík, where the Snæfellsnes peninsula is called "Iceland in miniature", along with lava caves, a glacier tunnel and geothermal hot springs.

This region is Iceland's Western Region (Vesturland), including Akranes, Borgarnes, Borgarfjörður, the Snæfellsnes peninsula and the Dalir area. To the south it is separated from the capital area by Hvalfjörður, to the north it borders the Westfjords, and to the northeast it meets the Húnaflói area of North Iceland. Highlights: Kirkjufell mountain and Kirkjufellsfoss on Snæfellsnes, Snæfellsjökull National Park, the basalt coasts of Arnarstapi and Hellnar, the black church at Búðir, and the town of Stykkishólmur; in Borgarfjörður, the waterfalls of Hraunfossar and Barnafoss, the Deildartunguhver hot spring, and the Víðgelmir lava cave; the man-made ice tunnel in Langjökull glacier; and the Settlement Centre in Borgarnes, tied to the Eddic legends. From Reykjavík to Snæfellsnes it is about 2–2.5 hours' drive, which can be done as a day trip, but a 1-night stay is recommended to complete the peninsula loop; combined with Borgarfjörður it takes 2–3 days. Snæfellsnes roads are generally passable in winter, making it a popular spot for the northern lights. Langjökull and inland roads require a tour or a 4WD.

Destinations

Itineraries