Top 10 Best Things To Do In West Iceland

1. Explore the village of Reykholt

The cultural and historical heart of Iceland, Reykholt is renowned for being the home of the country’s best-known author Snorri Sturlson during the years 1206-1241. Sturlson wrote The Prose Edda, considered by many to be the world’s most extensive source of Norse mythology and one of the most important works of Scandinavian literature. The village plays host to a fascinating cultural and medieval centre, Snorrastofa, as well as the beautifully designed Reykholtskirkja church with its Swiss-chalet style exterior and neoclassical features. There’s also a tiny geothermal pool named Snorralaug, thought to be one of the oldest springs used by humans in Iceland.

 For somewhere to stay, Fosshotel Reykholt is just a few steps away from the church.

2. Hike to waterfalls and through lava fields

Some of the most enchanting waterfalls in Iceland, Hraunfossar, Barnafoss and the Glanni Waterfall, are located in the West. Hraunfossar (Lava Waterfalls) is actually a series of smaller waterfalls, formed by water streaming through the irregular shapes of the Hallmundarhraun lava field and cascading over the moss-covered cliffs; Barnafoss (Children’s Waterfall) is located a short, scenic hike away. Glanni Waterfall is located near the otherworldly landscape of the Grábrókarhraun lava field, its small yet perfectly formed side-by-side drops and multiple tiers create a perfect postcard scene. The lava field is also the location of the Surtshellir cave, the longest open lava cave in Iceland.

3. Visit Langjökull – Iceland’s second largest glacier

The most popular glacier for skiing and hiking in Iceland is Langjökull – the country’s second-largest glacier and the glittering diamond in the Vesturland’s crown. Living up to its name which means ‘the Long Glacier’, Langjökull offers a 367-mile sq (950 km sq) stretch of ice cap, ideal for snowmobiling and admiring the winter wonderland scenery. However, that’s not all Langjökull has to offer: beneath the frosty surface lies a network of vast manmade ice caves where a world of shimmering blue and silver ice is waiting to be explored.

4. Marvel at Snæfellsjökull National Park and Glacier

One of the most famous landmarks in Iceland, Snæfellsjökull is a 700,000-year-old stratovolcano with a glacier cap, situated on the most western part of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The crater served as the entrance to the fantastical subterranean world in Jules Verne’s classic 1864 novel, Journey to the Centre of the Earth. The Peninsula also found fame in the 90s when thousands of people congregated to welcome aliens to Earth. 

There must be something magical in the air around Snæfellsjökull though. For centuries, it has been considered a source of power, mysticism and energy amongst the superstitious locals and its reputation holds strong.

5. Take a dip in Deildartunguhver and Krauma

Near the historical village of Reykholt lies the mighty Deildartunguhver, the largest and most powerful hot spring in Europe. Drawing on the geothermal reserves of the Reykholtsdalur valley, this magnificent force of nature pumps out a colossal 180 litres of steaming water per second. The water is primarily used to heat the nearby towns of Borgarnes and Akranes, as well as to assist nearby greenhouses and speed up the growth of plants and vegetables. If you want to take a dip, visit the sophisticated Krauma baths where you can enjoy all the benefits of naturally heated pools, calming saunas and the soothing relaxation room – you won’t want to leave.

6. Make friends at Háafell Goat Farm

The Icelandic goat is an endangered species, so the Háafell Goat Farm works hard to protect and maintain the goat population in Iceland. Expect a very warm welcome from the playful goat residents who are friendly and like to meet new people. Some have even featured in HBO’s Game of Thrones. The owners will provide plenty of information about their beloved charges and there’s a small shop on site where you can pick up a variety of fresh produce, from homemade cheeses and ice-cream to skincare products. It’s also possible to foster a goat for a small fee. Foster parents will receive regular updates and pictures of their goats as well as enjoy two free visits to the farm with their families each year.

7.Enjoy Fantastic Views Atop Mount Esja 

About 10 kilometres north of Reykjavík lies a volcanic mountain range called Isja. A hike up its basalt and tough terrain is a must-do in West Iceland. With an elevation of 914 metres (3000 feet), Esja offers spectacular views of Reykjavík, the mountains of Snaefellsnes Peninsula, and the Snæfellsjökull Glacier. As always, make sure to dress appropriately, heed weather conditions, and stay on the marked trail when hiking in Iceland.

8. Witness Vatnshellir Cave

Make your own journey to the centre of the earth with a tour down into the depths of the 8,000-year-old Vatnshellir Cave. This lava tube descends 35m below the surface and stretches more than 200m in length. Expect to negotiate staircases and uneven ground during this unique and unforgettable experience – sensible shoes are a must. Marvel at the fascinating formations and features in the upper part of the lava cave. When you descend into the lower regions, you'll encounter the sensation of total darkness as your guide switches off the torch.

9. Take photos at Kirkjufell Mountain

If committing your Icelandic adventure to film is an essential consideration, be sure to visit the most photographed mountain in Iceland – Kirkjufell. Rising 463m above sea level, this perfectly symmetrical cone is an unmissable part of West Iceland’s coastal skyline. As well as being a photographer’s dream, the beautiful nature trails and abundant bird life of the mountain make it an ideal destination for those who can’t get enough of the great outdoors. Stand beside the Kirkjufellsfoss Waterfall for the best view of this iconic mountain.

10. Take in the views at Breiðafjörður bay

The wide, shallow bay of Breiðafjörður is one of the best destinations for nature lovers in West Iceland. The region is made up of around 3,000 islands, islets and skerries. They all play host to around 50 breeding birds, including the common shag, Atlantic Puffin and the magnificent white-tailed eagle. Hop aboard a boat tour to make the most of this diverse natural environment, where you can admire the fairy-tale scenery and maybe even sample a taste of fresh-off-the-boat shellfish en route.