West Iceland is one of Iceland's hidden treasures, right near the capital. In less than an hour's drive, you can find yourself surrounded by Iceland's diverse nature, landscapes, culture and cuisine with some unusual features. Moreover, the roads to Western Iceland are never closed even in winter!
Content:
- Features of the Western region
- Facts about the Western region of Iceland
- Five Things West Iceland Needs to Do
Features of the Western region
Western Iceland stretches between the fjords Hvalfjörður in the south and Hvammsfjörður in the north. The road along Hvalfjörður will take you through a beautiful and peaceful area that boasts the highest waterfall in the country, Glimur, 198 meters. There is an old whaling station nearby, which is now out of operation. This route was part of the main ring road, but became a bypass after the Hvalfjord tunnel, which runs under the fjord, was opened in 1998. Most people now choose the direct route through the tunnel.
By the ring road you will get to the Borgarfjordur area, steeped in history and culture. This is an exciting region where you can see glaciers, waterfalls and lava fields. Visiting caves, hot springs, hiking or relaxing in one of the thermal pools are not all options for travelers in the area.
Borgarfjörður is also rich in history, as many of the most famous settlers and Vikings lived and died there.
The heart of the Saga is in Reikholt, where Snorri Sturluson lived, who wrote many of them. Do not forget about Akranes, a city where you can walk along the beach to the lighthouse, visit a museum or cafe.
A trip around the Snefersnes Peninsula is an unforgettable experience. Sandy beaches, lava fields, seabirds, small fishing villages and, of course, the spectacular Snefersjokull glacier, all of which can be enjoyed in one day.
Boat trips from Stykkishólmur, the largest village on the peninsula, will take you to Breiðafjörður Bay, where there are unique conditions for bird and whale watching and beautiful views of many islands. You can also stroll through the streets of one of the small villages or take a walk between the rocks and sand hills along the coast of the peninsula.
To the north of Snefelness are Budardalur and Dalir. This is a wonderful agricultural region where the Viking heritage is still alive. There are many events dedicated to historical events in Western Iceland. In addition, since the Western Region is very close to the capital, it is ideal for day trips and can be visited at no great cost.
The official website of the western region of Iceland - www.west.is
Facts about the Western region of Iceland
The area is 9554.6 km2
Population (2006) 15025
The population density is 1.5 people / km2
The western region of Iceland consists of 4 districts and 1 "free community".
Five Things West Iceland Needs to Do
- Visit Reikholt, home to Iceland's most prominent saga writer.
- Take a boat trip along Breiðafjörður.
- Try the taste of shark meat at the Pet Shark Museum in Bjarnarhefne, Snefelness.
- Visit the village center in Borgarnes and enjoy the history of the Vikings of Iceland.
- Go hiking or try snowmobiling on Snæfellsjökull
