The Westfjords of Iceland, a rugged and remote region characterized by dramatic fjords, towering cliffs, and quaint fishing villages, offer a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. With Ísafjörður as its vibrant hub, the Westfjords provide a range of accommodation options catering to various budgets, preferences, and travel styles. From cozy guesthouses and modern hotels to rustic campsites and unique farm stays, this guide explores the best places to stay across the Westfjords, ensuring an unforgettable experience in this pristine corner of Iceland. Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquility, or a deep dive into local culture, the Westfjords have a perfect base for your journey.
Overview of the Westfjords
The Westfjords, located in Iceland’s northwest, are known for their sparse population, untouched landscapes, and strong maritime heritage. The region’s largest town, Ísafjörður (population ~2,600), serves as the primary gateway, offering the most diverse lodging options. Smaller villages like Bolungarvík, Flateyri, Suðureyri, Þingeyri, and Patreksfjörður provide additional choices, often with a more intimate, community-focused vibe. Accessibility is a key consideration, as the Westfjords’ winding roads and unpredictable weather (especially in winter) can make travel challenging. Summer (June–August) is the peak season, with mild temperatures and extended daylight, while winter offers opportunities for skiing and northern lights viewing, though some accommodations may close.
Accommodation types in the Westfjords include hotels, guesthouses, hostels, apartments, cottages, farm stays, and campsites. Many properties emphasize local charm, with wooden interiors, harbor views, and homemade breakfasts featuring Icelandic staples like skyr and smoked fish. Prices vary, with budget options starting around $50–$80 per night and luxury stays reaching $200 or more. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during festivals like Aldrei fór ég suður (Easter) or the Við Djúpið Music Festival (summer).
Ísafjörður: The Heart of the Westfjords
As the cultural and administrative center of the Westfjords, Ísafjörður offers the widest range of accommodations, from upscale hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Its compact size makes it ideal for exploring on foot, with most lodging within walking distance of restaurants, museums, and the harbor.
Hotel Ísafjörður
- Location: Silfurtorg 2, Ísafjörður
- Price Range: $150–$250 per night
- Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, on-site restaurant (Við Pollinn), bar, conference facilities, harbor views
- Description: This modern, centrally located hotel is a top choice for comfort and convenience. Its 36 rooms, including singles, doubles, and suites, feature contemporary decor and large windows showcasing the fjord or mountains. The restaurant serves Icelandic cuisine with an emphasis on fresh seafood, and the staff can arrange tours like kayaking or whale watching. Ideal for couples or business travelers, Hotel Ísafjörður offers a polished experience with easy access to the town’s attractions, such as the Westfjords Heritage Museum.
Gamla Guesthouse
- Location: Mánagata 5, Ísafjörður
- Price Range: $80–$150 per night
- Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, shared kitchen, lounge, free parking, homemade breakfast
- Description: Housed in a historic building, Gamla Guesthouse exudes warmth and character. Its 12 rooms, ranging from singles to family suites, are simply furnished but cozy, with shared or private bathrooms. The communal kitchen and lounge foster a social atmosphere, perfect for solo travelers or families. The included breakfast features local bread and jams, and the guesthouse’s location near Aðalstræti’s shops makes it a convenient base. Guests praise the friendly hosts, who often share tips on hidden hiking trails.
Mánagisting Guesthouse
Mánagisting Guesthouse Website
- Location: Mánagata 4, Ísafjörður
- Price Range: $70–$130 per night
- Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, shared kitchen, laundry facilities, terrace
- Description: Adjacent to Gamla Guesthouse, Mánagisting offers affordable, no-frills lodging with a focus on community. Its rooms, including dorm-style options, are clean and functional, appealing to budget travelers and backpackers. The shared kitchen is well-equipped, and the terrace provides views of Skutulsfjörður. Its proximity to the harbor makes it ideal for those catching early ferries to Hornstrandir Nature Reserve.
Tungudalur Campsite
- Location: Tungudalur, 4 km from Ísafjörður
- Price Range: $15–$25 per person per night
- Amenities: Tent/RV spaces, showers, Wi-Fi, picnic tables, nearby golf course
- Description: For outdoor enthusiasts, Tungudalur Campsite offers a scenic retreat surrounded by forests and mountains. The site accommodates tents and RVs, with modern facilities including hot showers and a cooking area. Its location near the Tungudalur ski slopes makes it a year-round option, though summer is most popular. Campers can drive or take a short bus ride to Ísafjörður’s amenities, and the nearby waterfall trail adds a natural perk.
Bolungarvík: A Quiet Coastal Escape
Just 14 km north of Ísafjörður, Bolungarvík is a small fishing village known for its maritime museum and proximity to Hornstrandir. Its accommodations are fewer but ideal for those seeking solitude.
Einarshúsið Guesthouse
Einarshúsið Guesthouse Website
- Location: Hafnargata 41, Bolungarvík
- Price Range: $90–$160 per night
- Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, harbor views, breakfast included
- Description: This charming guesthouse, named after a local historical figure, offers five cozy rooms with nautical decor. Each room has a private bathroom and views of the harbor or mountains, creating a serene ambiance. The homemade breakfast, featuring fresh fish and local cheeses, is a highlight. Einarshúsið is steps from the Ósvör Maritime Museum, a replica of a 19th-century fishing station, making it perfect for history buffs. The hosts often arrange fishing trips or guided hikes.
Bolungarvík Campsite
- Location: Near Höfðagata, Bolungarvík
- Price Range: $10–$20 per person per night
- Amenities: Tent spaces, basic showers, picnic area
- Description: This no-frills campsite is a budget-friendly option for campers. Located near the village center, it offers basic amenities and easy access to Bolungarvík’s small supermarket and café. The site’s proximity to coastal trails and birdwatching spots appeals to nature lovers, though facilities are more basic than Tungudalur’s.
Flateyri: Quaint and Cozy
Flateyri, 22 km from Ísafjörður, is a picturesque village with a rich history and a growing reputation for eco-tourism. Its accommodations are intimate, reflecting the village’s tight-knit community.
Sima Hostel & Apartments
- Location: Ránargata 1, Flateyri
- Price Range: $60–$140 per night
- Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, shared kitchen, private apartments, mountain views
- Description: Sima Hostel combines dorm-style rooms with self-catering apartments, catering to both backpackers and families. The hostel’s communal vibe is enhanced by a shared lounge and kitchen, while the apartments offer privacy with full kitchens and balconies. Located near Flateyri’s historic church, Sima is a great base for exploring nearby hiking trails or the village’s quirky bookshop, one of Iceland’s oldest. Guests appreciate the eco-conscious ethos, with recycling and sustainable practices emphasized.
Bryggjukaffi Guesthouse
- Location: Hafnarstræti 6, Flateyri
- Price Range: $80–$150 per night
- Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, shared bathroom, on-site café, harbor proximity
- Description: This small guesthouse above a cozy café offers simple rooms with shared bathrooms, ideal for budget travelers seeking local flavor. The café serves homemade soups and pastries, and the guesthouse’s harborfront location provides stunning fjord views. Bryggjukaffi’s warm atmosphere and friendly staff make it a favorite for those exploring Flateyri’s cultural events, like summer concerts.
Suðureyri: Sustainable Serenity
Suðureyri, 20 km from Ísafjörður, is a forward-thinking village powered by geothermal energy. Its accommodations emphasize sustainability and community engagement.
Fisherman Suðureyri
- Location: Aðalgata 14, Suðureyri
- Price Range: $100–$180 per night
- Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, on-site restaurant, tour desk
- Description: Part of the Fisherman brand, this guesthouse offers modern rooms and apartments with a focus on eco-tourism. Guests can join fishing tours, visit local farms, or learn about Suðureyri’s geothermal initiatives. The on-site restaurant serves dishes made with local ingredients, such as cod caught by village fishermen. The guesthouse’s central location and educational programs make it ideal for travelers interested in sustainable travel.
Suðureyri Campsite
- Location: Near Túngata, Suðureyri
- Price Range: $12–$20 per person per night
- Amenities: Tent spaces, showers, playground
- Description: This family-friendly campsite offers basic facilities and a peaceful setting near Suðureyri’s church. Its playground and proximity to a small grocery store make it convenient for families, while the surrounding trails attract hikers. The site’s geothermal-heated amenities add a unique touch.
Þingeyri: Historical Charm
Þingeyri, 45 km from Ísafjörður, is a historic village known for its old blacksmith shop and scenic peninsula. Its accommodations are limited but authentic.
Hótel Sandafell
- Location: Hafnarstræti 7, Þingeyri
- Price Range: $120–$200 per night
- Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, restaurant, fjord views
- Description: This family-run hotel offers 18 rooms with minimalist decor and stunning views of Dýrafjörður. The on-site restaurant serves Icelandic comfort food, and the hotel’s location near the Old Blacksmith Shop, a cultural landmark, adds historical appeal. Hótel Sandafell is a great base for exploring the Svalvogar Circle, a scenic biking route, or nearby beaches.
Patreksfjörður: Gateway to the South
Patreksfjörður, 170 km from Ísafjörður, is a southern hub for exploring Látrabjarg and Rauðisandur. Its accommodations cater to adventurers and families.
Fosshotel Westfjords
- Location: Aðalstræti 100, Patreksfjörður
- Price Range: $140–$240 per night
- Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, restaurant, tour desk
- Description: Part of the Fosshotel chain, this modern hotel offers 40 rooms with sleek design and fjord views. The restaurant specializes in local lamb and seafood, and the staff can arrange trips to Látrabjarg’s puffin colonies. Its central location and reliable amenities make it a top choice for those exploring the southern Westfjords.
Patreksfjörður Campsite
Patreksfjörður Campsite Website
- Location: Near Strandgata, Patreksfjörður
- Price Range: $15–$25 per person per night
- Amenities: Tent/RV spaces, showers, laundry
- Description: This well-equipped campsite offers modern facilities and proximity to Patreksfjörður’s harbor. It’s a convenient base for day trips to Rauðisandur Beach or birdwatching at Látrabjarg, with a small café nearby for meals.
Unique Stays: Farmhouses and Cottages
For a more immersive experience, the Westfjords offer farm stays and cottages, often in remote settings with opportunities to connect with locals.
Heydalur Country Hotel & Farm Stay
- Location: Heydalur, 120 km from Ísafjörður
- Price Range: $100–$200 per night
- Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, hot tubs, restaurant, horseback riding
- Description: Nestled in a lush valley, Heydalur offers rooms, cabins, and a campsite, blending rustic charm with modern comforts. Guests can soak in geothermal hot tubs, ride Icelandic horses, or kayak in the fjord. The restaurant serves farm-to-table meals, and the family-run vibe makes it a memorable retreat.
Korpudalur HI Hostel
- Location: Kirkjuból, near Ísafjörður
- Price Range: $50–$120 per night
- Amenities: Shared kitchen, dorms/private rooms, hiking trails
- Description: This eco-friendly hostel, set in a historic farmhouse, offers dorms and private rooms surrounded by mountains. Its remote location near Dynjandi Waterfall appeals to hikers, and the communal kitchen encourages guest interaction. Ideal for budget travelers seeking a rural escape.
Practical Tips for Booking
- Seasonality: Summer offers the most options, but winter stays are ideal for northern lights and skiing. Check for seasonal closures, especially in smaller villages.
- Transportation: Renting a car is recommended due to limited public transport. Domestic flights to Ísafjörður (40 minutes from Reykjavík) are convenient, and ferries serve remote areas like Hornstrandir.
- Booking Platforms: Use Visit Westfjords, Booking.com, or Airbnb for listings. Direct bookings with guesthouses often yield better rates.
- Weather Preparedness: Pack warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes, as Westfjords weather is unpredictable year-round.
- Local Insights: Engage with hosts for recommendations on hidden gems, such as unmarked trails or local eateries.
Why Stay in the Westfjords?
The Westfjords’ accommodations reflect the region’s character: unpretentious, authentic, and deeply connected to nature. Whether you choose a harborfront hotel in Ísafjörður, a sustainable guesthouse in Suðureyri, or a remote farmhouse in Heydalur, your stay will be enriched by the region’s stunning landscapes and warm hospitality. From puffin-filled cliffs to cascading waterfalls, the Westfjords offer a rare opportunity to disconnect from the modern world and immerse yourself in Iceland’s raw beauty. Plan your trip, book early, and prepare for an adventure in one of the world’s most captivating destinations.
