Top Things to do in West Region
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10 Sights & Landmarks in West Region That You Shouldn't Miss
Discover the best top things to do in West Region, Iceland including Haafell Goats and Roses, Hestaland, Stori Kalfalaekur, Statue “Syn" by Steinunn Porarinsdottir, Orca Sculpture, Eiriksstadir, Londrangar Basalt Cliffs, Akranes Lighthouse, Budir Church, Gatklettur.
Restaurants in West Region
1. Haafell Goats and Roses
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 58 reviews
Reviewed By leanadawn - Reykjavik, Iceland
I'm a local who lives on the Snæfellsnes peninsula and although I had heard wonderful things about Jóhanna the goat farmer, I had never visited her goat farm. My partner and I decided to make the 1.5 hour drive to her place on a warm summer day. After arriving there around 3 pm, I think we ended up staying at Háafell until just before it closed at 6. The weather was mild with little wind, and this was perfect for hanging out in the field where the goats graze, lay, and take in the sun. Upon arrival, we met Jóhanna herself, who directed us to join a tour that was about to leave. Tours cost 1500 kr and we were happy to support Jóhanna's mission of restoring this nearly-extinct unique breed of goats back to Iceland. After meeting up with the guide, we walked around with her while she (in Icelandic) told us about how this farm came to be and how Icelandic goats are something very special. I'm used to goats being very "hyperactive" but this group was friendly and subdued. The goats are raised in a calm environment - it is forbidden for young visitors to chase the goats or frighten them - but everyone is welcome to pet or even pick up willing new goat friends. Once the short tour was done, we walked around the pasture and met a variety of nanny goats and their kids along with the occasional billy goat. They are beautiful and oh so soft! We relaxed in the grass and enjoyed the tranquil environment that is Háafell. When it was time to go, we returned to the little shop / reception area to sample goat sausage, goat cheese, and the various wonderful oils, soaps, and more that Jóhanna produces using nearby flora. If it wasn't a bit of a long drive from where I'd live, I'd go back to Háafell in a heartbeat on another sunny day. Takk fyrir mig, Jóhanna!
2. Hestaland
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 22 reviews
Farm visit to Hestaland. We offer groups to come to our barn to meet the Icelandic horse in person. TRAIL RIDES We offer riding lessons and trail rides. Half-day tour includes a light lunch. Multi-day tours (Treks) read more about our treks on our website
Reviewed By cvsimard - Newburyport, United States
Love their attention to matching horses and riders, and the ability to spend some time getting to know your horse around the farm before setting out on the countryside with a free herd. It makes for a much more confident and comfortable ride, so you can enjoy all the aspects of the adventure..Safe and Quality horses, beautiful countryside rides, new saddles, knowledgeable trainers who lead the way, and fantastic guest house at the end of the day, what more could you ask for!
3. Stori Kalfalaekur
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 7 reviews
Stori-Kalfalækur is a family-run farm located on the eastern edge of the Snæfellsnes peninsula. It is situated in rich farmland close to the ocean and the wonderful beaches of the Snæfellsnes peninsula. We offer multi-day riding tours for guests during the summer months since 1987. Upon request we always endeavor to fulfil wishes outside the standard programme, such as short rides or workshops.
4. Statue “Syn" by Steinunn Porarinsdottir
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
The statue “Sýn" stands next to the church in Grundarfjörður. It is a tribute to the life and work of fishermen and was created by Steinunn Þórarinsdóttir. She is a famous Icelandic artist who has exhibited widely in Europe, Japan, the USA, and Australia. The key element of this sculpture is a sailor woman looking out at sea. She stands on a high basalt column, a rock that characterizes Snæfellsnes. The shape of Kirkjufell is the second key element. It is made out of steel and represents the sea. This is a must-see when visiting Grundarfjörður and a wonderful opportunity to enjoy and photograph the famous Mt Kirkjufell from a different perspective.
5. Orca Sculpture
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
In 2016, a life-sized model of an orca was erected in the center of Grundarfjörður in Paimpol Park. This piece of art by Unnsteinn Guðmundsson is modeled after a special male orca named “Thunderstorm” that often visits the Snæfellsnes peninsula with his family. Snæfellsnes is the only area in Iceland where orcas are seen regularly and this sculpture shall raise awareness of these fascinating animals.
6. Eiriksstadir
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 96 reviews
In Eiríksstadir you can travel a thousand years back in history, hear a story by the long fire and see how people lived in the times of Eric the Red.
Reviewed By 152sigridurs - Reykjavik, Iceland
We vere so very lucky to be able to visit this historical place recently. We got a private tour since they have not officially opened for this summer because of Covid-19. I am icelandic but still had not been here before. This place being the home of the icelandic Vikings, Eiríkur rauði and Leifur Eiríksson is a living museum. The longhouse restored to show us how the Vikings lived. I found it interesting that the beds were small but apparently people slept in a sitting position during these times. Our guide dressed in linien clothes and wool was very knowledgeable both regarding the history and how the Vikings lived. I totally recommend that you visit Eiríksstaðir, their location is just a short distance from Búðardalur and well marked from the main road.
7. Londrangar Basalt Cliffs
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 77 reviews
Reviewed By Allkuans - Singapore, Singapore
Most people would recommend this hike in one direction or the other. The most useful advice I found was parking at Malarrif and then do a return hike, ie, Malarrif-Londragar-Malarrif. However, I modified this slightly and this is my suggestion (if you are driving from Arnapstapi): 1. Park at Londrangar, walk to the viewing platform to see the basalt cliffs. 2. Drive a short distance further on to Malarrif, visit the excellent Tourist Information Centre. The toilet is open 24 hours. 3. Walk towards Londrangar as far as you wish to view the basalt cliffs, depending on your time availability. 4. Do a walk along the Malarrif beach as well. We
8. Akranes Lighthouse
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 131 reviews
Reviewed By Ethelred_3
We were very lucky to be the first visitors of the day (Saturday morning, despite tripadvisor said it was closed..) We had a private tour by the friendly guardian, who came to open the gate and went on accompanying us up to the top describing the “musical” features of the lighthouse, its history and the sights. The unique construction of the lighthouse makes it perfect to propagate sounds and it’s used for in promptu concerts . Worth a try of your vocal cords!
9. Budir Church
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 250 reviews
Reviewed By ThreeIfBySkyBlog
The original Búðakirkja was built in 1703 but, due to lack of attendees, the church was torn down. It was rebuilt in 1987 after a sole member of the church requested to bring it back. The stark blackness and isolation is the main attraction, though some ancient relics and historic graveyard are impressive. Though isolated it is often crowded so hard to get a photo of it or with it without anyone else in the photo.
10. Gatklettur
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 122 reviews
Reviewed By LaurenM557 - Torrance, United States
It is a spectacular rock formation, highlighted by a natural rock arch. Free parking with an easy access from main highway. When we were there in February, it was really windy!
