Often overlooked by visitors traveling the famed Ring Road, West Iceland is packed with photo-worthy natural features and cultural history. Get off the beaten path on your next trip to Iceland and take in the waterfalls, geothermal pools, and cultural lore that make this region special.
## A Comprehensive Exploration of West Iceland: Waterfalls, Saga Towns, and Glaciers
West Iceland, a realm of captivating beauty and rich historical significance, offers an unforgettable road trip experience. The journey through this region, nestled between Reykjavik and Akureyri, is remarkably accessible, thanks to well-maintained paved roads, reliable highways, and conveniently located gas stations dotting the landscape. As you embark on this adventure, remember to prioritize safety by diligently checking the weather and road conditions before setting off.
The 74-kilometer stretch from Reykjavik to Borgarnes serves as the gateway to the wonders of West Iceland. This route will lead you through the Hvalfjörður tunnel, a key passage along Road 1, also known as the Ring Road. From Borgarnes, a charming town steeped in history and culture, you can readily access all the remarkable sights that West Iceland has to offer.
However, it’s crucial to be aware that West Iceland can experience strong winds, demanding extra caution, especially during the winter months. Staying informed about weather conditions is paramount, ensuring a safe and enjoyable exploration of this captivating region.
### A Journey Through Time: Unveiling West Iceland’s History
Beyond its breathtaking landscapes, West Iceland stands as a treasure trove of historical sites and saga narratives. This region, situated between Reykjavik and Akureyri, is not only packed with opportunities for adventure, but also holds the most significant historical importance in Iceland.
One of the most iconic historical landmarks is Reykholt, the cherished homestead of the renowned poet Snorri Sturluson. Snorri Sturluson, a towering figure in Icelandic literature, is best known as the writer of the Prose Edda and for his role as Lawspeaker at Thingvellir, a site of immense historical and political importance. Visiting Reykholt provides a unique glimpse into the life and times of this influential figure, offering a profound connection to Iceland’s literary heritage.
West Iceland is also deeply intertwined with the legendary hero of Egill’s Saga, Egill Skallagrímsson. This famed warrior-poet, whose exploits are also chronicled in the Sturlunga Saga, adds another layer of historical richness to the region. Exploring the landscapes that shaped Egill’s life and adventures offers a compelling journey into the heart of Icelandic folklore.
Laxárdalur Valley, a site of profound historical significance, is the setting for the medieval epic Laxdaela Saga. This saga, brimming with tales of love, conflict, and destiny, offers a captivating window into the lives and values of medieval Icelanders. A visit to Laxárdalur Valley allows you to immerse yourself in the world of the saga, connecting with the characters and events that have shaped Iceland’s cultural identity.
In the captivating small town of Borgarnes, you’ll find the Settlement Centre, a museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing Iceland’s rich history. The Settlement Centre boasts a wide range of interactive and historical exhibitions, providing an engaging and informative experience for visitors of all ages. Here, you can delve into the stories of the first settlers who arrived in Iceland, gaining a deeper understanding of the nation’s origins and cultural development.
### Must-See Attractions: Highlights of West Iceland
West Iceland beckons with a diverse array of attractions, promising unforgettable experiences for every traveler.
#### Into the Glacier Tour: A Journey to the Heart of the Ice
One of the most popular and exhilarating tours in West Iceland is the “Into the Glacier” adventure. This unique experience takes you deep into the sub-glacier complex of man-made ice tunnels, allowing you to explore the hidden wonders beneath Europe’s second-largest glacier, Langjökull.
Langjökull, a majestic ice cap, rests on a massif of hyaloclastite mountains, concealing a world of icy secrets beneath its surface. Until recently, the mysteries that lay beneath the glacier were known only to glaciologists. Now, you have the opportunity to discover the mesmerizing tunnels of blue ice, marveling at the intricate formations and ethereal beauty of this subterranean realm. To ensure your place on this extraordinary adventure, it is highly recommended to book a tour ahead of your arrival.
#### Glymur Falls: A Majestic Cascade in Hvalfjordur
Embark on a challenging yet rewarding hike to Glymur, Iceland’s highest accessible waterfall. Located in Hvalfjordur fjord, just off of Road 47, this majestic waterfall tumbles into a mossy green canyon, creating a scene of breathtaking beauty.
The hike to Glymur is approximately 2 miles (3.5 km) from the trailhead, and it requires a degree of physical fitness and a spirit of adventure. You’ll need to navigate a lava cave and carefully maneuver around a river, adding to the thrill and excitement of the experience. However, the reward is well worth the effort: the stunning view of the falls and the panoramic vista of Hvalfjordur are simply unforgettable.
Upon reaching the top of the falls, you have the option to extend your hike further upstream, where the river is calmer and wading across becomes possible. Alternatively, you can continue your ascent to Hvalfell Summit, increasing the hike to a 6.6 mile (10 km) loop, offering even more breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Please note that this hike is not suitable for casual hikers. It is very steep in certain places, requiring the use of cables for support. In snow season, the log across the bridge is removed, but an alternative route up the west side of the canyon is available, eliminating the need for a crossing.
#### Hraunfossar & Barnafoss: Twin Waterfalls of Unparalleled Beauty
The twin waterfalls of Hraunfossar and Barnafoss are often visited together due to their close proximity, creating a delightful double feature for waterfall enthusiasts. Start your exploration at Hraunfossar, where a multitude of streams cascade out of the black lava, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
Whether you visit in summer or winter, the cascades of Hraunfossar are stunningly beautiful, easily visible from a convenient viewing platform. Autumn is also a particularly colorful time to witness the falls, as the leaves above the waterfall transform into vibrant shades of red and orange, creating a striking contrast against the milky blue water.
Hraunfossar is located 77 miles (125 km) from Reykjavik, downstream from the Hvitá River and Gullfoss. After admiring Hraunfossar, follow the trail a short distance to Barnafoss, crossing the bridge over the river. Barnafoss, meaning “Children’s Falls,” is a powerful and turbulent waterfall with a tragic legend associated with its name.
#### Reykholt: A Glimpse into Iceland’s Literary Heritage
Reykholt holds a special place in Icelandic history as the birthplace and homestead of Snorri Sturluson, Iceland’s best-known writer and poet (1206-1241). This historical site has been carefully preserved through the centuries, offering visitors a unique opportunity to connect with Iceland’s literary past.
In Reykholt, you’ll find an ancient geothermal pool, Snorralaug, where Snorri Sturluson himself is believed to have bathed. You can also explore a cultural center with historical exhibitions and guided tours, delving deeper into Snorri Sturluson’s life and works. Additionally, Reykholt boasts a small but elegant church, adding to the charm and historical significance of this remarkable site.
#### Háafell: Meeting the Icelandic Goat
Just a short distance from Reykholt lies Háafell, a farm dedicated to preserving the Icelandic goat, an ancient breed unique to Iceland. These goats are descended from those brought over from Norway over 1,000 years ago, representing a living link to Iceland’s Viking heritage.
The Icelandic goat faced near extinction in the late 1800s, but dedicated efforts have led to its recovery. At Háafell, you’ll find flocks of these friendly creatures, offering a chance to interact with a symbol of Icelandic resilience and cultural identity. The farm is exploring ways to utilize the goats for meat, milk, cheese, cashmere, and soap, promoting sustainable practices and preserving this unique breed. Visitors can even “adopt” a goat, receiving email updates about their sponsored pet, creating a personal connection to the farm and its mission. The farm is open to visitors from June to August.
#### Deildartunguhver Geothermal Area / Krauma Baths: Harnessing the Power of the Earth
The Deildartunguhver geothermal region is renowned as the most powerful in all of Europe, a testament to Iceland’s abundant geothermal resources. This area is characterized by steam vents, hot pools, and greenhouses that tap into the naturally occurring thermal energy, showcasing the innovative ways Icelanders utilize their environment.
The hot water from Deildartunguhver is used to heat the nearby towns of Borgarnes and Akranes, demonstrating the vital role geothermal energy plays in the region’s infrastructure and sustainability. In fact, if you take a shower anywhere within a 40 mile (65 km) radius, you’ve likely bathed in hot water sourced from Deildartunguhver.
Just north of the hot springs, the Krauma geothermal nature baths offer a luxurious and relaxing experience. These baths feature outdoor hot tubs, a sauna, and a unique tranquility room, providing a sanctuary for rejuvenation and well-being. The facilities also include changing rooms, a restaurant, a bar, and a souvenir shop, ensuring a comprehensive and enjoyable experience.
For generations, locals have harnessed the geothermal energy of Deildartunguhver for baking bread and warming their tomatoes and carrots. The Viðigerði horticultural farm continues to produce and sell tomatoes to this day, carrying on a tradition of sustainable agriculture.
#### Borgarnes: A Charming Harbor Town with a Rich History
The small but charming harbor town of Borgarnes provides a welcome respite when driving out of Reykjavik. It’s likely to be your first town encountered on the way to the North or Snaefellsnes, making it a strategic point for exploring West Iceland.
In Borgarnes, you can visit the Settlement Center, which vividly recounts the story of Vikings who settled in the 700s-800s. The most famous exhibit focuses on Egill Skallagrímsson, a warrior-poet known for his eloquence and his ruthless approach to his enemies. A pleasant path along the harbor’s edge leads to a smaller island, offering scenic views and a tranquil atmosphere. Borgarnes is also a great option for an overnight stay if you’re arriving from Reykjavik or the Golden Circle, allowing you to get an early start for a hike to Glymur Falls or a drive through Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
#### Vidgelmir Cave: Exploring a Subterranean Wonderland
The colorful Vidgelmir lava tube is a truly impressive geological feature, measuring around 150,000 cubic meters in volume. As the largest lava tube in Iceland, it’s also one of the most stunning. Deep colors of mossy greens and vibrant reds, purples, and yellows adorn the cave walls, creating a mesmerizing spectacle wherever you look.
As you venture deeper into the cave, you’ll encounter an increasing number of stalactites and stalagmites, adding to the cave’s otherworldly charm. Remarkably, jewelry and bones dating back to the Viking Age were discovered during a major excavation in 1993, highlighting the cave’s historical significance.
Please note that the cave is inaccessible without a qualified guide, ensuring your safety and providing valuable insights into the cave’s formation and history.
#### Grábrók Crater: A Volcanic Vista
Conclude your exploration of West Iceland with a hike up man-made steps to Grábrók Crater, a volcanic landmark offering breathtaking panoramas. Located just off the Ring Road, it’s a simple, short hike that rewards you with sweeping views of Borgarfjörður, the colorful and cone-shaped Mt. Baula, and Lake Hreðarvatn.
Grábrók Crater was created by a fissure eruption nearly 3,000 years ago, and its slopes are streaked with blackened lava on all sides, a testament to its volcanic origins. This hike provides a great opportunity to stretch your legs after a drive and get your first glimpse of the Icelandic countryside.
### Continuing Your Journey: Beyond West Iceland
As you bid farewell to West Iceland, it’s time to embark on the next chapter of your Iceland adventure, exploring the diverse wonders that lie beyond.
Consider venturing westward to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, often referred to as “Iceland in Miniature” due to its diverse landscapes. Alternatively, head northeast to North Iceland, a region renowned for its dramatic fjords, geothermal areas, and vibrant cultural scene.
If Snaefellsnes is your destination, take road 54 from Borgarnes to Vegamót, then road 56 until you reach road 54 once more, and continue until the turn to road 58 to Stykkishólmur. If you’re heading up to Akureyri, continue along the Ring Road, exploring the vastness of Iceland’s interior.
Regardless of your chosen path, Iceland promises an unforgettable journey, filled with breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and unique cultural experiences. The adventure awaits!
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