4 Best Sights in Patreksfjörður, Westfjords

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 seabird 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.

Pools are central to Icelandic communities and the Birkimelur Swimming Pool is no exception. Relax among the locals in this man-made pool, which is heated with geothermal water. There are changing rooms on-site, as well as a sauna.