Embark on a journey of a lifetime exploring the remote and lesser-known parts of the country, full of untamed beauty and hidden delights. Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of West Iceland as you manoeuvre around the local villages, waterfalls, sea-bird cliffs and lava fields of the region. Never cease to be amazed on this unforgettable trip!
DAY 1 Reykjavik
Upon arrival into Reykjavik, catch the Flybus shuttle bus from Keflavik airport to your accommodation. You may explore Iceland’s capital city on your own if time allows.
Stay at: Reykjavík Natura Berjaya (4 star) or similar
Meals included: -
Day 2 Reykjavik - Eriksstadir - Patreksfjordur
Meet your tour guide early morning and travel West. The first stop of the day will be at Grabrok, a 3,400-year old volcanic crater, where a 360 degree view of the entire valley can be enjoyed. Continue to Eiriksstadir, once home to the world-renowned Viking explorers, Eirik the red and his son Leif the Lucky. In a replica of their longhouse and living museum, you’ll get yourself immersed in the way Vikings lived, as well as Icelandic history and folklore. Next, stop at the first of many charming waterfalls in the Westfjords, Dingmannaa Waterfall. The resting spot for the next two nights will be at the quaint fishing village of Patreksfjordur, a remote village offering scenic views over the fjord and the Greenland Sea.
Stay at: Fosshotel Westjords (3 star) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
DAY 3 Patreksfjordur - Raudasandur - Latrabarg - Patreksfjordur
Begin the day at one of Iceland’s most beautiful beaches, Raudasandur. This 10 kilometre long iridescent beach borrows its name from its stunning red-coloured sand that merges seamlessly with streams of turquoise sea water, offering wonderful picture opportunities. Visit Hnjotur Folk Museum, a perfect introduction to daily life in the Westfjords, as well as the history of agriculture and seafaring in Iceland. Continue to Latrabjarg, one of Europe’s highest seabird cliffs. This promontory is also the westernmost point in Iceland, from which there is an uninterrupted view of the North Atlantic, and of bird colonies such as puffins, razorbills, and guillemots, extending as far as the eye can see. On your journey today, you will also see the shipwreck Gardar, Iceland’s oldest steel ship. In the evening, head back to Patreksfjorour, for a well-deserved rest after a day full of adventures.
Stay at: Fosshotel Westjords (3 star) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
DAY 4 Patreksfjordur - Dynjandi - Falteyri - Isafjordur
Today’s journey will begin at Dynjandi waterfall, widely regarded as one of Iceland’s most impressive and beautiful waterfalls. Dynjandi features a tiered structure which creates an ethereal stream of small cascades. Then continue to travel by the coastline and fjords to the captivating pier of Onundarfjorour. Jutting out from a stunning golden beach well into the water, the pier is a perfect place for panoramic views of the fjord. Visiting the village of Flateyri, you will stop at a hidden gem, Gamla bokabuoin or “The Old Bookstore”. In operation since 1914, this charming little store is a great place to browse for unique souvenirs and appreciate traditional Icelandic design at its finest. You will learn more about the history of Flateyri and the devastating avalanche in 1995, venturing out to the avalanche protection fences built to protect the locals from future tragedies. In the afternoon, arrive to the largest town in the Westfjords, Isafjordur, which will be your resting spot for the next two nights.
Stay at: Hotel Isafjordur (3 star) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
DAY 5 Isafjordur - Bolafjall - Suoureyri - Isafjordur
This morning, venture to the 640 metres high mountain of Bolafjall, which sports a steel viewing platform that juts over the cliff with staggering view of the sea and nearby fjords, not for the faint of heart. Visit the restored fishing hut at Osvor Maritime Museum, to learn about the old days of rowboat fishing and the challenging life in isolated fishing villages in the 19th century. Afterwards, drive to the village of Suoureyri, to enjoy an informative walk around town and have the opportunity to savour delicious seafood sourced from a local producer, which promises to acquaint you with Iceland’s rich heritage and fishing traditions. In the afternoon, enjoy free time for leisure in Isafjordur, or alternatively join an optional add-on such as a thrilling ATV tour around Isafjordur or a visit to the beautiful island of Vigur, a long and narrow island home to an abundant number of puffins, Artic terns, eiders, guillemots, and more.
Stay at: Hotel Isafjordur (3 star) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
DAY 6 Isafjordur - Reykjanes - Holmavik - Vogur
Today, travel along the fjords of Isafjardardjup, where incredible views can be enjoyed – if you are lucky, you might even spot a whale! Visit the Saltverk factory in Reykjanes and learn about the process of salt manufacturing, which is powered 100% by geothermal energy. The next stop takes you to the picturesque village of Holmavik and its Museum of Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft. Here, learn about the history and folklore surrounding witchcraft and sorcery in Iceland and explore a vast collection of artifacts such as ancient grimoires, ritual objects, and the remarkable Icelandic magical staves which were believed to possess protective and magical powers. After an exciting day of discoveries, travel to the remote Vogur Country Lodge in West Iceland. This overnight location is a truly peaceful and beautiful place close to the remarkable Breidafjordur Bay.
Stay at: Vogur Country Lodge (3 star) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 7 Vogur - Hraunfossar - Reykjavik
After a long week of many discoveries, head back to the city of Reykjavík with a few wonderful stops along the way. Starting at Hraunfossar or “the lava waterfalls”, which are fed by a glacial river that travels hundreds of kilometres filtering through lava, making the water appear to originate from the lava rocks. Then visit a horse farm, where you will get to meet face-to-face with one of Iceland’s fluffiest and friendliest natives, the Icelandic horse. In the afternoon, explore the capital, learning about its history and stopping by its many landmarks such as the popular church of Hallgrímskirkja, The University campus and Reykjavík’s charming harbour to observe the colourful fishing vessels, the beautiful mountain backdrop, and the spectacular concert hall and conference centre of Harpan.
Stay at: Reykjavík Natura Berjaya (4 star) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 8 Reykjavik
Enjoy your breakfast this morning before check out. Your <optn> tour concludes today with a Flybus transfer to the Airport for your onward journey.
Meals included: Breakfast
Touring and entrances fees:
Sightseeing highlights: