Iceland : Best of the West

Kayaking the tranquil waterways between the mountains of the West Fjords is an unforgettable adventure. Bird watchers in particular will enjoy this quiet and unassuming way to approach the bird life. Departing from Isafjordur, this is the perfect introduction to sea kayaking. Enjoy a short lesson in paddling, before setting off on the waters surrounding Isafjordur, the region's small and charming capital.

Age limit 12 yrs.

In the early 1950s, due to the harshness of the environment, the remote Hornstrandir area in the West Fjords was completely abandoned by the last of its inhabitants. Since 1974 the flora and fauna has been protected and Arctic foxes, birds, seals and wildflowers have thrived.  Depart from Isafjordur by boat, for the abandoned village of Saebol in Adalvik.

Continue by foot to another abandoned settlement at Heysteyri, passing the old church and parsonage at Stadur. Crossing the mountain, enjoy a spectacular and panoramic view across Isafjardrdjup Bay and Jokulfirdir to the Drangajokull glacier. Returning by boat from Hesteyri in the evening. A moderate hike for people in good shape. 14 kilometres, elevation of about 330 metres on rough ground.

Imagine riding along a beach of golden sand, while watching seals playing in the sea. Head to Lysuholl farm then set off on a sure-footed horse, riding the Icelandic way. Enjoy a short excursion (approx. 1.5 hrs) on horseback exploring the magical and scenic Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

Get a glimpse of the traditional everyday life in Isafjordur. In a 2-hour long walk, accompanied by a local guide, experience the town’s true spirit in a way otherwise inaccessible. Along the way you are likely to bump into the local barber who plays the accordion or even interrupt the baker training for the marathon! Towering mountains on either side, provide the perfect shelter for a lively harbour and with its colourful houses, has for centuries been the largest fishing village in the area. It certainly has a lot to offer in terms of traditional Icelandic culture and history. Includes entrance to the West Fjords Heritage Museum.

A nature and bird watching boat tour with fresh scallop tasting! Explore the natural paradise of Breidafjordur Bay with its fantastic variety of bird life, including puffins, eider ducks, kittiwakes, shags, fulmars and white-tailed sea eagles. Sail around numerous islands and curious rock formations, and taste shellfish delicacies including scallops and sea urchin rows that are caught with the small net-plough - the absolutely freshest sushi!

Visit the charming island of Vigur on a 30-minute guided boat trip from Isafjordur, spending about 2-hours ashore where you'll experience the peaceful and remote way of life on the island. Only 5 inhabitants share their home with thousands of birds; eider duck, Arctic terns, puffins, black guillemot and many more. Here you can also find a hotel specially built for the eider ducks!