12 Best Sights in Westfjords, Iceland

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 into 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.

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.

You only have to drive around the country for a few minutes to understand what an important role sheep play in the Icelandic economy. The Sheep Farming Museum has been a local and visitor favorite since it opened in 2002. If the season is right, after learning all about the industry (specifically the Strandir region), you can meet some of the farm's lambs and help feed them. Or just chill at the café inside and enjoy a slice of Icelandic cake.

The exterior of the Sorceror's Cottage is a sight to behold, even if you don't have time to enjoy the museum inside. Just a quick drive from the Museum of Icelandic Witchcraft and Sorcery, this cottage serves as the second part of the main museum. You'll learn all about how people lived in the 17th century and why sorcery became such a huge part of life here. It can get a bit spooky, so the faint of heart should avoid visiting the cottage late at night.

Learn about the rich history of the local fishing industry and how it's helped regional growth at the Westfjords Heritage Museum. It takes a deep dive into the lives of the fishermen that built this community and what it was like to live in the area when it was first settled. Note that some resources refer to this museum as the Maritime Museum.

Iceland isn't known for its abundance of wildlife, but it is home to the adorable and elusive arctic fox. You can find these animals in the wild—and if you do, watch them from afar and let them be—but you're sure to see them at the Arctic Fox Centre in Súðavík, a quick drive from Ísafjörður. At this wildlife refuge and research center, guests are invited to learn all about these curious little mammals. The arctic fox population has been dwindling for years, and the center puts forth efforts to maintain it.

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.

The main tourist information center here is also a cultural hub and an archive of all things Ísafjörður. The ground floor serves as the town's library, while the second floor houses a number of exhibits covering life in the Westfjords through the ages. They also host live events and run youth theater programs. As if that wasn't enough, they have a bistro if you're in the mood for a cold beer and some fried fish.

Every July, crowds flock to Holtsfjara Beach for the annual sandcastle-building competition. The white-sand beach—a rare sight in Iceland—is a local favorite for those warm-blooded enough to jump in the chilly water.

This nearby valley is great for walking or, when there's snow on the ground, skiing. If you're traveling on Seljalandsvegur and pass Fosshestar on your right, you'll find that the road splits, so you can follow Seljalandsvegur or head left on Skutulsfjarðarbraut. Stay on Seljalandsvegur for about 53 meters (a third of a mile) before taking a slight right onto a gravel road. From here, there is a parking lot where you can leave your car and head into Seljalandsdalur.

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.