Why West Iceland Should Be Your Next Travel Destination

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Iceland is made up of eight distinct regions, each offering its own unique and captivating features. West Iceland might be best known for Kirkjufell, the most photographed mountain in Iceland, but there are plenty of other beautiful spots to check out during your stay in this region. Check out five other must see spots that prove West Iceland needs to be the next place you venture to in Iceland!

1. Hraunfossar Lava Field Waterfalls

Hraunfossar are a series of waterfalls formed by small streams traveling roughly 900 meters out of the Hallmundarhraun – a vast lava field. Few places in Iceland exemplify its moniker “the land of fire and ice” as literally as these lava field waterfalls!

2. Hallmundarhraun

The Hallmundarhraun lava field was formed in a massive eruption close to the Langjökull Glacier around the year 930. Today, Hallmundarhraun includes three caves; combined, these caves are the longest lava caves in Iceland!

3. Glymur

Located in Botnsdalur Valley, Glymur is Iceland’s tallest waterfall. Travelers hoping to climb to the top of this waterfall should plan for a 3-4 hour hike. Though the trek might be long, the view at the top is truly breathtaking!

4. Akranes Lighthouses

The Akranes Lighthouse is one of the most picturesque lighthouses in the world. While there are two lighthouses in the horizon, the larger beacon is currently in use and open to the public. Travelers can venture out to the lighthouse and enjoy a view of Iceland from offshore, and even check out a photography exhibit displayed in the house itself.

5. Reykholt; Home of The Prose Edda, the Bible of Norse Mythology.

Reykholt, a village in West Iceland, is home to The Prose Edda, the most renowned work in Scandinavian literature, and the most extensive source of Norse Mythology. In Reykholt, visitors can explore the Museum Snorrastofa, which was founded in memory of Snorri Sturluson, author of Prose Edda, and learn more about this fascinating aspect of Icelandic culture.  

For a few more places to check out in West Iceland, check out this list. Which spot are you most looking forward to visiting? Let us know in the comments below or by tweeting us at @IcelandNatural!