9 Best Sights in Westfjords, Iceland

Like most communities in Iceland, Drangses has a local hot spring. There are three different tubs on-site of varying temperatures, and they are fantastic—free to the public and each one with a beautiful view of the ocean. Just be sure to follow cultural protocol and shower before entering the water. You won't find large crowds at these hot pots.

One of the most famous waterfalls in the Westfjords, Dynjandi is a 45-minute drive from Þingeyri or Ísafjörður. Some refer to this waterfall as "the bridal veil," given its stairwell formation. It actually comprises seven waterfalls in total, all feeding one another in the most graceful way. Expect a crowd if you go in the middle of the day as this waterfall draws a lot of visitors to the area.

The cliffs at Látrabjarg are home to millions of birds—the main reason people from around the world flock to this region—and to answer your burning question: yes, you can see adorable puffins here. You'll also catch sight of razorbills, fulmars, and guillemot in the clouds of birds that surround this area; in fact, no fewer than 10 sea bird species call these cliffs home. Látrabjarg is actually just one of four sections of cliffs in this area: the Keflavíkurbjarg, Bæjarbjarg, Breiðavíkurbjarg, and Látrabjarg cliffs. All have slightly different viewpoints with one thing in common: a whole lot of birds. There's also a scenic lighthouse on-site, which happens to be the westernmost lighthouse in Europe. To get here, drive along Route 612 until you can't anymore; this is the westernmost point of the Westfjords.

Although black-sand beaches may get the most attention in Iceland, the red sand of Rauðasandur Beach is something that needs to be seen in person. What makes it that golden red color? Pulverized scallop shells. Depending on the day, the beach can appear more yellow, red, or black. To get here from Patreksfjörður, take Route 62 and follow the signs for Route 614, then take Route 612. Note that the road leading to this beach is not unpaved and is often quite rough—and it's a windy road, so take it slow.

Hikers shouldn't miss this mountain right outside of Þingeyri. Whether you hike it or take a 4X4 vehicle to the top, the views are absolutely incredible.

If you've got a short amount of time in the area, head to Tungudalur for some natural sights. Here you'll find a small but beautiful waterfall, a modest forest, the town's skiing center, and a full golf course. There's plenty to do, but take some extra time around the waterfall and forest; you won't find many of the latter around the country.