Spectacular West
Tour Itinerary
Waterfalls, Hot Springs & Viking History
Your Iceland adventure begins as you pick up your rental car in Reykjavík and leave the capital behind, heading into the scenic landscapes of West Iceland. The Borgarfjörður region is rich in both natural wonders and fascinating history.
Your first stop is Deildartunguhver, one of Europe’s most powerful hot springs, where enormous quantities of steaming geothermal water rise from deep beneath the earth. Continue to historic Reykholt, once the home of Snorri Sturluson, one of Iceland’s most important medieval writers and historians. From here, travel through the beautiful countryside to Hraunfossar, a series of remarkable waterfalls that emerge from beneath a vast lava field, and nearby Barnafoss, where the river rushes through a narrow rocky gorge.
If you would like to relax after your sightseeing, finish the day with an optional visit to Krauma Geothermal Baths, where naturally heated water provides a wonderful introduction to Iceland’s geothermal culture.
Borgarfjödur
Into “Iceland in Miniature”
After breakfast, continue west toward one of Iceland’s most spectacular regions—the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Because of its extraordinary variety of landscapes, Snæfellsnes is often called “Iceland in Miniature,” and over the next few days you will discover exactly why.
Begin with a visit to the dramatic Gerðuberg basalt cliffs, where rows of perfectly shaped basalt columns create an impressive natural wall. Continue to the coastal area of Ytri Tunga, one of the best places on the peninsula to look for seals resting on the rocks and beaches.
Your journey then takes you to Búðir, a tiny historic settlement surrounded by lava fields and dominated by its beautiful black wooden church. From Búðir, continue toward the fishing village of Arnarstapi. Take time to explore the spectacular coastline on foot, where enormous cliffs, unusual rock formations and sea arches meet the powerful Atlantic Ocean. A walk toward the neighboring village of Hellnar is one of the most scenic experiences on the peninsula.
Breakfast- Arnarstapi or Hellnar
Volcanic Landscapes, Black Beaches & Kirkjufell
Today you experience the wildest and most dramatic landscapes of Snæfellsnes. Begin your exploration of Snæfellsjökull National Park, named after the magnificent glacier-capped volcano that dominates the western end of the peninsula. The area is filled with lava fields, volcanic formations and rugged coastline and has inspired generations of Icelandic stories and legends.
Continue to Lóndrangar, where two enormous basalt pillars rise dramatically from the ocean, before visiting the atmospheric black-pebble beach of Djúpalónssandur. Surrounded by lava formations and steep cliffs, the beach was once home to a small fishing community and remains one of the most memorable coastal landscapes in Iceland.
Continue around the northern side of the peninsula through the fishing villages of Hellissandur and Ólafsvík. Your final destination is Grundarfjörður, home to the instantly recognizable Kirkjufell. Rising dramatically from the surrounding landscape, this distinctive mountain is one of Iceland’s most photographed natural landmarks. The nearby Kirkjufellsfoss waterfalls provide the classic viewpoint and a perfect place to end the day.
- Breakfast
- Grundarfjörður
Charming Fishing Villages & Coastal Scenery
Enjoy a relaxed morning in the beautiful surroundings of Grundarfjörður before beginning your journey back toward Reykjavík. If you missed any of the viewpoints around Kirkjufell the previous evening, the morning light provides another excellent opportunity to photograph this iconic mountain.
Continue to Stykkishólmur, one of the prettiest and most charming towns in West Iceland. Built around a natural harbor, the town is known for its colorful historic houses, fishing heritage and spectacular views over the islands and waters of Breiðafjörður Bay. Take some time to walk around the harbor, explore the town and enjoy lunch before continuing south.
The drive back toward Reykjavík takes you through peaceful countryside and along scenic coastal landscapes. Rather than rushing through the day, there is plenty of flexibility to stop at viewpoints, small villages and interesting sites along the way. Arrive in Reykjavík in the afternoon or early evening, giving you time to enjoy the capital, have dinner and relax after your journey through West Iceland.
- Breakfast
- Reykjavik
A Relaxed Finale to Your Iceland Adventure
Enjoy your final morning in Iceland at your leisure. Depending on your departure time, you can explore more of Reykjavík, visit one of the city’s museums, stroll through the colorful downtown streets, or enjoy a leisurely breakfast and coffee before returning your rental car.
For travelers with a later departure, this morning can also be used for one final Icelandic experience, such as relaxing in a geothermal spa. After five days of dramatic landscapes, volcanic scenery, waterfalls, charming coastal villages and unforgettable views, your West Iceland and Snæfellsnes adventure comes to an end as you depart Iceland with memories of one of the country’s most diverse and spectacular regions.
- Breakfast
Customer reviews
We enjoyed the trip very much. It was a good idea to explore Iceland driving along the most spectacular coast. With comprehensive maps we managed to see so much at our own pace and free of any worry. It was a most relaxing adventure. What a scenery! I will never forget the craters we saw, cliffs, fantastic beaches and many other breathtaking views. The itinerary you arranged for us was exactly what we needed. It was perfect.
Sally X, China
