Rauðisandur, Westfjords

National GeographicAug 7

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.

Red beach with two minutes, five seconds of totality.

16 things in this story

KrossneslaugSightPool on black-pebble beach with infinite ocean views.
LátrabjargSightEurope's largest bird cliff, close to eclipse centerline.
RauðisandurSightRed beach with two minutes, five seconds of totality.
BolafjallSightMountain with observation deck, shuttle bus access.
HellulaugSight100-degree water in stone basin directly on beach.
Sundlaugin Laugarnesi BirkimelSightBlue concrete pool and natural hot pot overlooking bay.
ReykjafjarðarlaugSightPool and natural hot pot at base of mountain.
Hótel LaugarhóllHotelProperty with a 13th-century bishop-blessed holy bath.
Hótel FlókalundurHotelServes three meals a day with sprawling fjord views.
Elsewhere
Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft MuseumMuseumHólmavík, IcelandLearn about witchcraft in the Strandir region.
TjöruhúsiðRestaurantÍsafjörður, IcelandBuffet of seafood, soups, roast vegetables in old tar factory.
HeimabyggðCaféÍsafjörður, IcelandCafe for cinnamon rolls or avocado toast.
Dokkan BrugghúsBeer gardenÍsafjörður, IcelandBrewery for IPAs made from Westfjordian spring water.
Vegamót BíldudalRestaurantBíldudalur, IcelandGreat choice for Icelandic pub grub.
Café RiisRestaurantHólmavík, IcelandOffers creative pizzas.
Galdur BrugghúsRestaurantHólmavík, IcelandWitchcraft brewery serving lagers.

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Rauðisandur

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