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Northern Lights in the Westfjords

Discover the wonders of West Iceland
Ísafjörður, Iceland © Icelandic Explorer

Immerse yourself in the untamed beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture of West Iceland while increasing your chances of witnessing the mesmerising Northern Lights. An extraordinary adventure, exploring remote and lesser-known parts of the country, along with charming villages, beautiful waterfalls and colourful lava fields. Be captivated by the magical skies and landscapes of the Westfjords, where each day promises exciting experiences and unforgettable moments.

Itinerary

Day 1 Reykjavik Arrival

Coach transfer from Keflavík Airport to your hotel or nearest bus stop in Reykjavik. Time to explore Iceland's capital on your own. The small city centre is characterised by eclectic and colourful houses, good shopping, dining and drinking. Reykjavik has established itself as a haven for food lovers, with numerous restaurants taking advantage of the abundance of local seafood, meat and game. Reykjavik has many wonderful museums including the National Museum displaying artefacts from the first settlement to the modern age, giving an excellent overview of Iceland's history and culture, the Reykjavik 871+2 Settlement Museum, an archaeological museum based around a 10th century Viking longhouse unearthed in 2001, the Reykjavik Art Museum and the National Gallery. Overnight in Reykjavik at Fosshótel Barón or similar.

Day 2 Lava, Fjords and Heritage

Meet your guide at your hotel this morning and depart Reykjavik. Travel west, the first stop of the day will be at Grábrók, a 3400-year old volcanic crater, where a 360-degree view of the entire valley can be enjoyed. Stop for lunch at the charming coastal town of Búðardalur before traveling along the fjords of Ísafjarðardjúp, where incredible views can be enjoyed – if you are lucky, you might even spot a whale. Visit Litlibær, one of the very few turf houses still standing in Iceland, which has been turned into a charming café and museum. Enjoy delicious home-made waffles and coffee in this historical landmark overlooking the fjord and sea. In the afternoon arrive to the largest town in the Westfjords, Ísafjörður, for three overnights. Once darkness falls, get ready to hunt for the Northern Light across the night sky. Stay 3 nights at Hótel Ísafjörður or similar. 

Day 3 Beautiful Westfjords

Begin the day at Dynjandi waterfall, widely regarded as one of Iceland’s most impressive and beautiful waterfalls. Dynjandi features a tiered structure which creates an ethereal stream of small cascades that is truly breathtaking to behold. Travel by the coastline and fjords to the captivating pier of Önundarfjörður. Jutting out from a stunning golden beach into the water, the pier is a perfect place for panoramic views of the imposing mountains. After a stroll in nature, head to Tjöruhúsið, a quaint family-owned restaurant for a fish buffet. Then walk around the beautiful town of Ísafjörður, filled with colourful houses and cobblestone streets, this town is not only full of history, but it is also a cultural hub with many festivals and celebrations taking place throughout the year. As the day comes to an end, head outside for another chance at seeing the Northern Lights. 2nd overnight at Hótel Ísafjörður or similar. 

Day 4 Maritime marvels and Flateyri village

Start the day at the restored fishing hut at Ósvör Maritime Museum, to learn about the old days of rowboat fishing and the challenging life in isolated fishing villages in the 19th century. Drive to the village of Suðureyri for an informative walk around town and the opportunity to savour delicious seafood sourced from a local producer. Visit the village of Flateyri and stop at a Gamla Bókabúðin “The Old Bookstore”. In operation since 1914, this charming little store is a great place to browse for unique souvenirs and appreciate traditional Icelandic design at its finest. Learn more about the history of Flateyri. Evening walk in search of the celestial wonders of the Arctic sky, the Aurora Borealis. 3rd overnight at Hótel Ísafjörður or similar. 

Day 5 Sorcery and Gourmet Delights

Today visit the picturesque village of Hólmavík and its Museum of Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft. Learn about the history and folklore surrounding witchcraft and sorcery in Iceland, in a vast collection of artifacts such as ancient grimoires, ritual objects, and the remarkable Icelandic magical staves which were believed to possess protective and magical powers. Lunch stop to taste the traditional Icelandic meat soup followed by rhubarb cake. Travel to the remote Vogur Country Lodge in Búdardalur, West Iceland. This overnight location is a truly peaceful and pristine place perfect for Aurora hunting. Overnight at Vogur Country Lodge or similar.

Day 6 Settlement Center and Reykjavik

Head toward the town of Borgarnes and stop at the Settlement Center. Featuring an exhibition encompassing a warehouse, a merchant house, and reception hall, learn about the fascinating and challenging days of early human settlement in Iceland. Continue south to the capital city of Reykjavík, learn about its history and stop by landmarks such as Hallgrímskirkja, The University campus and Reykjavík’s charming harbour to observe the colourful fishing vessels, the beautiful mountain backdrop, and the spectacular concert hall and conference centre of Harpa. End the day at the Icelandic Bar, to taste the famous fermented shark and Brennivín. Overnight in Reykjavik at Fosshótel Barón or similar.

Day 7 Reykjavik Departure

Coach transfer from your hotel or nearest bus stop to Keflavík Airport where your tour arrangements end.


2024 departures:
09, 23 September
07, 21 October
04 November

2025 departures:
10, 24 February
10, 24 March
07 April

Notes:

Maximum Group Size: 22 persons

Pre and post nights can be added in Reykjavík - please enquire

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