Northwest Iceland Travel Guide

Northwest Iceland is a region in the land of fire and ice characterized by its untamed natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and diverse wildlife. It is home to the largest seal colony in Iceland.

Travelers often treat the Northwestern region of Iceland as a side stop when traveling to other regions of the country from Reykjavik, especially towards Northeast Iceland. However, its beautiful attractions and charming villages, like Saudarkrokur and Vatnsnes peninsula, are exciting destinations of their own.

The region offers outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, seal watching, and relaxation amid Iceland's natural beauty. With its remote and unspoiled wilderness, Northwest Iceland is a destination for travelers seeking adventure and exploration, especially for those who want to escape larger tourist crowds.

If you plan on staying in the region overnight or for a few days, you can book accommodations in Hvammstangi or Blonduos. The area is also best explored by rentar car or renting a campervan in summer.

Where is Northwest Iceland?

Northwest Iceland is located in the country's northwestern part, bordering the Westfjords to the northwest, the Northeast region to the east, and parts of West Iceland to its south. The region encompasses towns such as Saudarkrokur, Blonduos, and Hvammstangi, as well as the surrounding countryside, farmlands, fjords, and coastal areas. 

Northwest Iceland is situated northeast of Reykjavik, Iceland's capital city. The distance between Reykjavik and Northwest Iceland is approximately 124 miles (200 kilometers) to 155 miles (250 kilometers). The specific distance varies depending on your particular destination in the region. 

Traveling from Reykjavik to Northwest Iceland typically involves driving along the Ring Road (Route 1) towards the north. However, some towns and villages may require driving along inner roads, passing through scenic landscapes and unique vistas. 

The journey takes three to four hours by car, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Affordable rental cars in Iceland are available whether you’re coming from Reykjavik or straight from the Keflavik International Airport.

Alternatively, travelers can also opt for domestic flights from Reykjavik to Akureyri, the largest town in the neighboring region of Northeast Iceland. You can then pick up a rental car from Akureyri.

Akureyri serves as the gateway to the collective North Iceland region. From Akureyri, it's a shorter drive to reach Northwest Iceland, allowing visitors to explore its rugged beauty and diverse attractions.

Popular Towns and Villages in Northwest Iceland

The towns and villages of Northwest Iceland offer travelers a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. From the streets of Saudarkrokur to the shores of Blonduos, each community has its own lovely charm. 

Saudarkrokur

Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Hansueli Krapf. No edits made.

Saudarkrokur is a historic town nestled along the scenic Skagafjordur fjord in Northwest Iceland. With a population of around 2,600 residents, it is the largest settlement in Skagafjordur and the Northwest region.

The town, 181 miles (292 kilometers) from Reykjavik, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant community atmosphere. Visitors to Saudarkrokur can explore its charming streets lined with colorful wooden houses, many of which date back to the 19th century. 

One of the town's main attractions is the Saudarkrokur church, a picturesque white church with a distinctive red roof in the heart of the town. Nearby, the Grettislaug geothermal hot springs offer visitors the chance to relax in warm, mineral-rich waters while taking in views of the surrounding countryside. You can also experience Iceland's largest Viking battle through virtual reality with a ticket to the 1238 Battle of Iceland exhibition.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in Saudarkrokur and its surrounding areas. You can embark on horseback riding tours through the scenic countryside, exploring lush valleys and rolling hillsides. Fishing is also popular in the Skagafjordur fjord, known for its abundant salmon and trout populations.

Hvammstangi

Hvammstangi is a tranquil village situated on the shores of Hunafloi bay in Northwest Iceland. Known for its picturesque coastal setting and thriving fishing industry, Hvammstangi offers a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The village is one of the first settlements you can visit in the Northwest region when traveling from Reykjavik. It’s a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts due to its Icelandic Seal Center, where visitors can learn about the region's native seal population and conservation efforts. 

The nearby estuaries also provide excellent birdwatching opportunities, with various seabirds and waders frequenting the area.

Outdoor activities in Hvammstangi include exploring hiking trails in the surrounding countryside, fishing in Hunafloi bay, or taking boat tours to spot seals and seabirds in their natural habitat. The village boasts a charming harbor area where you can stroll along the waterfront, watch fishing boats come and go, or enjoy a picnic overlooking the bay.

Blonduos

Blonduos is another charming town in Northwest Iceland, located on the banks of the Blanda river. Known for its scenic beauty and cultural attractions, Blonduos offers visitors a relaxing escape amidst Iceland's natural landscapes.

The town's iconic landmark is the Blonduoskirkja, a modern church with a distinctive design that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore nearby attractions such as Hrutey Island Nature Reserve, which is known for birdwatching and wildlife photography opportunities. 

Meanwhile, the surrounding countryside offers opportunities for hiking and exploring hidden waterfalls and coastal cliffs. Fishing and kayaking on the Blanda river are also popular activities. 

Other Northwest Iceland towns and villages to explore include Laugarbakki, Hofsos, and Varmahlid. Like the rest of the region, these small settlements are excellent spots for cultural immersion or adventures in the countryside.

Best Attractions in Northwest Iceland

Besides scenic towns and villages, Northwest Iceland boasts a wealth of natural attractions that every traveler shouldn’t miss. These destinations are great additions to your itinerary to make your Icelandic holiday more unforgettable.

Vatnsnes Peninsula

The Vatnsnes Peninsula is a rugged and remote expanse renowned for its stunning coastal vistas and abundant wildlife. Extending into the Atlantic Ocean, the peninsula boasts towering cliffs, rocky shores, and long stretches of beaches. It serves as a haven for diverse bird species, with puffins, guillemots, and razorbills among the many seabirds that call the area home.

Exploring the Vatnsnes Peninsula reveals a landscape shaped by volcanic activity and glacial forces, with moss-covered lava fields and heathlands.

The peninsula is crisscrossed by a network of hiking trails, allowing visitors to explore the area's natural beauty up close. Scenic drives along the coastline afford breathtaking views of the North Atlantic, with opportunities for wildlife spotting and photography at every turn. 

One of the most popular activities on the peninsula is seal watching. The peninsula's rugged coastline provides an ideal environment for seals to bask on rocky shores or swim gracefully in the surrounding waters to feed.

Hvitserkur Rock Formation

Hvitserkur is a striking basalt sea stack located off the coast of the Vatnsnes Peninsula in Northwest Iceland. 

Rising approximately 49 feet (15 meters) from the sea, this unique geological formation resembles a massive dinosaur, a troll, or a dragon drinking from the ocean, depending on who’s looking. Over centuries of erosion, the sea stack has taken on its distinct shape, with the elements sculpting the basalt rock into fascinating formations.

To visit Hvitserkur, you have to make a short detour from the Ring Road. Route 711 or Vatnsnesvegur will take you to the Hvitserkur parking lot, where you can begin the short walk to the observation deck or along the coast. 

Icelandic Seal Center

The Icelandic Seal Center, located in Hvammstangi on the northwest coast of Iceland, is dedicated to promoting awareness and conservation of the country's seal population. The museum offers visitors an educational experience through interactive exhibits, artifacts, informative displays, and multimedia presentations. 

You can learn about the different seal species found in Icelandic waters, their habitats, behavior, and the challenges they face. The center also conducts research and monitoring programs to better understand and protect seals in their natural environment.

Grettislaug Geothermal Pool

Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Bromr. No edits made.

The Grettislaug geothermal pool, located in Saudarkrokur, is a natural hot spring with a rich history dating back to the Viking Age. The pool is named after the legendary outlaw Grettir the Strong, who is said to have bathed in its healing waters in the Icelandic Sagas. 

Fed by naturally heated water from underground geothermal sources, the pool maintains a comfortable temperature year-round, making it an ideal spot for unwinding after a day of exploration. It also has stunning views of the surrounding countryside, fjord, and mountains. 

Please note that Grettislaug is a private property, so using its pool and changing facilities require a small fee.

Kolugljufur Canyon and Waterfall

Kolugljufur canyon and waterfall are considered hidden gems in Northwest Iceland, as they are not usual stops in guided tours or self-drive tours. Fortunately, both attractions are near the Ring Road and the town center of Hvammstangi.

The canyon stretches for approximately 0.9 miles (1.5 kilometers) and reaches depths of up to 131 feet (40 meters). 

Along the canyon, you’ll see a series of cascades called the Kolufossar waterfalls, adding to the area's scenic beauty. Visitors can enjoy hiking along the canyon rim, taking in breathtaking views of the river below and the surrounding countryside.

While exploring the canyon and waterfalls, remember not to step near the cliffs’ edge to avoid any accidents.

Why Visit Northwest Iceland?

Northwest Iceland is a destination for travelers seeking raw natural beauty and authentic experiences. Its rugged coastlines, coastal towns, and remote landscapes offer a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. 

Beyond its stunning landscapes, Northwest Iceland boasts a rich cultural heritage waiting to be explored. From historic churches to traditional turf houses, the region's history is reflected in its architecture and museums. Cultural events and festivals provide opportunities to engage with local traditions and folklore, adding depth to the travel experience.

Adventure seekers will find plenty to do in Northwest Iceland, from horseback riding and birdwatching to fishing, seal watching, and kayaking. With its diverse range of activities and unspoiled landscapes, Northwest Iceland offers something for every traveler looking to connect with nature and discover the true essence of Iceland.