Things to do
The reward for driving to the end of the road in the Westfjords: Bolafjall and its ocean-view platform, Skálavík’s black-sand beach, boat trips to Hornstrandir and Hesteyri, the Ósvör maritime museum, and one of Iceland’s best pools — with Ísafjörður and its cafés just 15 minutes away.
Still picking a base? Where to stay in the Westfjords — our honest guide →
Planning around a festival? Westfjords events & festivals — dates and where to stay →
The 638 m mountain rising above Bolungarvík. Its 60 m viewing platform hangs about 600 m above the sea, looking over Ísafjarðardjúp to Jökulfirðir and Hornstrandir. Drive up the gravel road in summer, or walk up any time of year.
Bolafjall guide: road, season and walking up →
The next creek over from Bolungarvík, reached by the same gravel road that leads up to Bolafjall. A hidden paradise with a black-sand beach and a river running to the sea — perfect for a sunny picnic or a romantic sunset.
An abandoned village in the Hornstrandir nature reserve, reachable by boat in summer — a hauntingly beautiful day trip into one of Iceland’s last true wildernesses.
Ósvör Maritime Museum is a restored fishing hut from the days of rowboat fishing — a double 19th-century fishing base, salt hut and drying area. Try to visit when the curator welcomes you in a traditional fisherman’s outfit.
Opening hours
One of the best pools in Iceland — locals call it “the Temple of Water and Wellness.” Indoor pool, sauna, three outdoor hot tubs, a small kids’ slide, and a gym in the same building. Address: Höfðastígur 1, 415 Bolungarvík.
The capital of the Westfjords, 15 minutes away through the tunnel: restaurants, cafés, shops, the airport, and boats to Hornstrandir. Stock up, eat well, then come home to the quiet.
From late May to mid-July the sun barely sets. Bolafjall and the balcony are the front-row seats.
September to April, on clear dark nights. Check the aurora forecast, then just step outside — Bolungarvík has very little light pollution.
Roads are ploughed but weather moves fast. Check road.is and umferdin.is before driving, give yourself slack, and ask us if unsure.
Trails for every level — from a stroll in Bernódusarlundur forest to full-day hikes. We will happily mark up a map for you.
See it all from a quiet apartment with a full kitchen and the fjord outside the window.
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