Ísafjörður — Travelrags

National GeographicAug 7, 2026

An eclipse-inspired trip to Iceland’s most remote, least-visited region

A trip to the Westfjords means soaking in coastal hot springs, falling asleep under the northern lights, and experiencing the longest period of totality at one of the world’s largest bird cliffs.

16 things in this story

TjöruhúsiðRestaurantBuffet of seafood, soups, roast vegetables in old tar factory.
HeimabyggðCaféCafe for cinnamon rolls or avocado toast.
Dokkan BrugghúsBeer gardenBrewery for IPAs made from Westfjordian spring water.
Elsewhere
KrossneslaugSightWestfjords, IcelandPool on black-pebble beach with infinite ocean views.
LátrabjargSightWestfjords, IcelandEurope's largest bird cliff, close to eclipse centerline.
RauðisandurSightWestfjords, IcelandRed beach with two minutes, five seconds of totality.
BolafjallSightWestfjords, IcelandMountain with observation deck, shuttle bus access.
HellulaugSightWestfjords, Iceland100-degree water in stone basin directly on beach.
Sundlaugin Laugarnesi BirkimelSightWestfjords, IcelandBlue concrete pool and natural hot pot overlooking bay.
ReykjafjarðarlaugSightWestfjords, IcelandPool and natural hot pot at base of mountain.
Hótel LaugarhóllHotelWestfjords, IcelandProperty with a 13th-century bishop-blessed holy bath.
Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft MuseumMuseumHólmavík, IcelandLearn about witchcraft in the Strandir region.
Vegamót BíldudalRestaurantBíldudalur, IcelandGreat choice for Icelandic pub grub.
Hótel FlókalundurHotelWestfjords, IcelandServes three meals a day with sprawling fjord views.
Café RiisRestaurantHólmavík, IcelandOffers creative pizzas.
Galdur BrugghúsRestaurantHólmavík, IcelandWitchcraft brewery serving lagers.

Read the full piece at National Geographic →