Iceland

This is the oldest and wildest region – remote and stunningly beautiful with countless magical fjords, precipitous mountains and hidden gems off the beaten track.

INSIDER KNOWLEDGE

On a clear day the views from the radar station at Bolungarvik are outstanding – worth a little detour. At Hornbjarg yet more impressive bird cliffs are the nesting ground for thousands of pairs of very noisy birds!

ISAFJARDARDJUP

This spectacular 75 km long fjord almost cuts the region in two. It is one of around 50 deep fjords, with alternating steep headlands, which make up this least visited part of the country, at number 11 on our clock face. Dotted around the fjord, which splits into more fjords, are a scattering of quaint fishing villages.

VIGUR

One of the tiny islands within Isafjardardjup, this pretty speck of land boasts Iceland’s only windmill and a single farm. Boat trips are possible in the summer months and the unique scenery and prolific bird life make it worthwhile.

ISAFJORDUR

The largest settlement in the region (population 3,500), is located on a spit of land which juts into Isafjardardjup, creating a perfect natural harbour. It has a Maritime Museum with a collection of delightful 18th century timbered buildings which are a popular subject for artists and photographers, and a fine fish restaurant with marvellous views.

FLATEYRI

This typical Icelandic fishing village has an idyllic setting on the shores of Onundarfjordur. A whale’s pelvic bone sits in the main square and a little church completes the picture. Sadly, Flateyri was struck by a terrible avalanche some years ago. Avalanche defences have since been built and are worth a visit.

DYNJANDI

A region description wouldn’t be complete without a mention of an impressive waterfall. These ‘mountain falls’, also known as Fjallfoss, are 100 m high and fan out in stages to their base, 60 m in width.

LATRABJARG

The impressive bird cliffs at Latrabjarg form the westernmost point of Iceland. At 14 km long and 444 m high, these sheer cliffs are home to the country’s largest concentration of sea birds including kittiwakes, razorbills, fulmars and guillemots. The puffins are especially friendly and more than happy to pose for close ups!

RAUDISANDUR

For those looking for a picturesque walk there are many trails are available. A particular favourite is the one along almost the entire length of the Latrabjarg bird cliffs to this incredible golden sand beach – often deserted and just right for a romantic stroll.

HORNSTRANDIR

This wilderness peninsula is 580 sq km of nature reserve – dramatic coastline, gently rolling hills, glacial valleys and no inhabitants other than Arctic foxes, seals and cetaceans offshore and a myriad of bird life. Hiking here is the order of the day – some trails inspiring, some for serious contenders only!

STRANDIR

The east coast of the region presents yet more amazing coastlines and a scattering of settlements, mainly associated with fishing and sheep farming. Huge amounts of driftwood are washed ashore from Scandinavia and Siberia and, although visitor facilties are limited, the area has a lure of its own.

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We also offer a variety of multi-centre itineraries which take in this region. Find out more »