Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
West Iceland
Why Go?
Geographically close to Reykjavík yet far, far away in sentiment, West Iceland (known as
Vesturland;
www.west.is
) is a splendid microcosm of what Iceland has to offer. Yet most
tourists have missed the memo, and you're likely to have much of this wonderful region to
yourself.
The long arm of Snæfellsnes Peninsula is a favourite for its glacier, Snæfellsjökull, and
the area around its national park is tops for birding, whale watching, lava field hikes and
horse riding. Inland beyond Reykholt you'll encounter lava tubes and remote highland gla-
ciers, including enormous Langjökull with its new ice cave. Icelanders honour West Ice-
land for its local sagas: two of the best known,
Laxdæla Saga
and
Egil's Saga
, took place
along the region's brooding waters, marked today by haunting cairns and an exceptional
museum in lively Borgarnes. West Iceland offers everything from windswept beaches to
historic villages and awe-inspiring terrain in one neat, little package.
