Northwest

Norðurland vestra

Plan your trip to Northwest

Northwest Iceland is a remote and dramatic region of deep fjords, rugged mountains, and pristine wilderness, centered around the charming port town of Ísafjörður. Here you'll find some of Iceland's most unspoiled landscapes, from sea cliffs and waterfalls to isolated hiking trails that see few visitors. It's ideal for travelers seeking adventure, natural beauty, and an escape from Iceland's more crowded tourist routes.

Getting there & around

Fly into Keflavík International Airport near Reykjavík, then rent a car and drive north (4–5 hours) via Route 1 and Route 60 to reach Ísafjörður. There are also domestic flights from Reykjavík to Ísafjörður airport if you prefer to skip the drive. Once in the region, a rental car is essential, as public transport is limited and attractions are spread across vast distances.

How long to stay

Plan for 4–6 days to explore the Northwest properly, allowing time for hiking, fjord exploration, and travel between remote sites. Fewer days means you'll miss the region's best experiences; more time lets you tackle longer trails and venture into less-accessible areas.

When to go

Visit June to August for the best access to hiking and coastal scenery, with long daylight hours—some days have nearly 24-hour twilight. May and September can work for hardy travelers, but expect shorter days, occasional snow at higher elevations, and some facilities being closed.

Suggested itinerary

  1. Arrive in Ísafjörður and explore the town — Fly or drive to Ísafjörður and settle into this colorful seaside capital. Spend the afternoon walking the harbor, visiting the local museums, and grabbing fresh seafood at a harborside restaurant.
  2. Hiking and fjord scenery — Take a full-day hike in the surrounding mountains or book a boat tour into one of the dramatic fjords like Ísafjarðardjúp. The views of sea cliffs, waterfalls, and isolated valleys are outstanding.
  3. Remote villages and coastal exploration — Drive to isolated settlements such as Flateyri or Þingeyri to experience traditional Icelandic village life and coastal landscapes. Return to Ísafjörður or stay overnight in a smaller guesthouse for an authentic experience.

Frequently asked questions

Is Northwest Iceland worth visiting?

Yes, especially if you want dramatic fjords, remote hiking, and fewer crowds than South Iceland. It's best suited for travelers comfortable with rugged terrain and long drives between attractions.

How many days do you need in Northwest Iceland?

4–6 days is ideal to experience the main attractions without feeling rushed; 3 days is the bare minimum if time is limited, but you'll miss significant areas.

Can you visit Northwest Iceland without a car?

It's very difficult—buses are infrequent and don't reach many hiking trailheads or smaller villages. A rental car is strongly recommended for flexibility and access.

What is the best hiking in Northwest Iceland?

The region offers excellent trails around Ísafjörður, including walks to Vigur Island, Hornstrandir wilderness, and the valleys surrounding the fjords; many are uncrowded compared to popular Southern routes.

Is it safe to travel to Northwest Iceland?

Yes, it's safe, but roads can be narrow and winding, weather changes rapidly, and services are sparse—drive carefully, check road conditions, and always carry supplies and a map.

History

Norðurland vestra, or Northwest Iceland, has been inhabited since the Viking Age settlement period in the 9th century, with early Norse settlers establishing farms and fishing communities across its fjords and valleys. The region developed as a center of agriculture and fishing, with small communities clinging to the coastal areas and river valleys where resources were most abundant. During Iceland's medieval period, the area was part of the broader Commonwealth and later the Danish realm, experiencing the same isolation and hardship as much of rural Iceland. In modern times, the northwest has remained one of Iceland's most sparsely populated regions, preserving traditional ways of life and retaining strong cultural connections to Iceland's Viking heritage.

Culture

The northwest is known for its fierce independence, literary traditions, and connection to Iceland's sagas and historical narratives, with many settlements tracing their roots to named Viking settlers. The region maintains strong fishing and farming traditions, and its small communities are characterized by tight-knit social bonds and a deep respect for nature and self-sufficiency. Local culture emphasizes storytelling, craftsmanship, and a pragmatic approach to life in one of Europe's most dramatic and challenging landscapes.

Language

The inhabitants speak Icelandic with local variations typical of rural northwestern communities, where older forms of speech and traditional vocabulary remain more prevalent than in urban areas. Useful phrases include 'Halló' for hello and 'Takk fyrir' meaning thank you, though English is increasingly understood among younger residents.

Best time to visit

Visit June to August for the best access to hiking and coastal scenery, with long daylight hours.

Places to visit

Where to eat