Getting to the Westfjords: Transportation guide
Updated: Aug 2
The Westfjords are one of Iceland’s most remote and least densely populated regions. This remoteness is part of what makes the area special: dramatic landscapes, quiet roads, and small communities.
Whether you choose to drive, fly, or travel by ferry, arriving here means slowing down and entering a different pace of Iceland.
Driving to the Westfjords
Driving is the most flexible way to explore the Westfjords and allows you to experience the landscapes at your own pace.
From Reykjavík:
To Reykhólar: 228 km (approximately 3 hours drive)
To Hólmavík: 232 km (approximately 3 hours drive)
To Patreksfjörður: 387 km (approximately 5 hours drive)
To Ísafjörður: 414-455 km depending on which route you take (approximately 5.5 hours)
Rest stops and services are relatively limited along the way. Plan your fuel stops in advance.
If you're coming to the Southern Westfjords, it is possible to shorten your driving time by taking your car in the ferry boat connection available. See the ferry information below for details.
During summer, most main routes in the Westfjords can be travelled with a regular vehicle. In winter and the shoulder seasons, conditions can be more challenging, with snow, ice, and changing weather affecting accessibility. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for many routes, and some roads may be temporarily closed depending on conditions.
Always check current road conditions before travelling at road.is.
Flying to the Westfjords
Domestic flights connect Reykjavík Domestic Airport with three airports in the Westfjords: Ísafjörður, Bíldudalur, and Gjögur. Flying is the quickest way to reach the region, with a flight time of 40–50 minutes.
Flight schedules vary by season. As with all travel in the Westfjords, flights are weather-dependent and may be delayed or cancelled due to adverse weather conditions.
If you fly into the Westfjords, onward transportation should be planned in advance. Public transport options are limited and require careful planning. Car rental is generally available in Patreksfjörður and Ísafjörður year-round.
A shuttle service operates between Bíldudalur Airport and the three towns in the municipality of Vesturbyggð—Bíldudalur, Tálknafjörður, and Patreksfjörður—and is available for all scheduled arriving and departing flights.
Private transfers are also available. Næra Westfjords can help you plan your route and book selected flights, shuttle services, and other transportation options.
Ferry to the Westfjords
The Baldur ferry connects Stykkishólmur on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula with Brjánslækur in the Southern Westfjords, with a stop at Flatey Island on many departures. Ferry schedules vary by season and may occasionally be affected by maintenance or operational circumstances.
The crossing offers a scenic and relaxing journey across Breiðafjörður, a unique bay renowned for its countless small islands, skerries, and rich birdlife. Rather than spending the day behind the wheel, you can enjoy the changing landscapes from the deck or relax on board.
You can bring your car on the ferry, making it an excellent option for families travelling with children. Hot meals, snacks, and drinks are available for purchase on board.
Public Bus to the Westfjords
Travelling to the Westfjords by public bus is possible, but very limited. Bus services and schedules vary depending on the season.
From Reykjavík, it is possible the following:
Reykjavík → Borgarnes → Stykkishólmur
From Reykjavík, Strætó buses connect to Stykkishólmur (with bus change in Borgarnes).
From Stykkishólmur you can continue by the Baldur ferry across Breiðafjörður to Brjánslækur.
Brjánslækur → Patreksfjörður / Isafjörður
From Brjánslækur it is possible to take a shuttle bus to Patreksfjörður or Isafjörður between June and August and should be booked in advance. Schedules may vary the upcoming year.
Borgarnes → Hólmavík
From Borgarnes it is also possible to take the bus to Hólmavík between June and August. Schedule may vary the upcoming year.
Planning to visit the Westfjords?
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